MAYOR_Patricia White 2024 - ETCHED NECKLACE

Mayor's message

Read the Mayor's message for updates on all the news and issues affecting the Shoalhaven.

 

Friday 16 May 2025

Message from Deputy Mayor Peter Wilkins

I’ve had some mighty big shoes to fill this week and it’s certainly given me a new appreciation for the work carried out by the Mayor. 

Cr White has had little choice but to hand me the reins as she recovers at home from a fractured collarbone and injured shoulder. When we spoke earlier this week, she was in good spirits but must limit the movement in her arm to aid her recovery. I’ll be filling in until 23 May while she takes a leave of absence and I'm sure you'll join me in wishing her a speedy recovery. 

Today, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) approved Council’s request for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) of 12 per cent from 1 July 2025. The rate increase of 12 per cent, including the 3.8 per cent rate peg, will see an average increase in rates of around $3.46 a week. We know that every cent counts in households across the Shoalhaven, but this increase will allow us to prioritise the backlog of maintenance required for critical assets across the city. You can find more information here. 

My week has had a sport focus which, as a cricket tragic, has suited me just fine. I had the honor of attending the Illawarra Academy of Sport (IAS) Mayoral Afternoon Tea on Monday to recognise the outstanding achievements of local athletes and coaches. I also headed out to the Artie Smith Oval to receive an award from Cricket Australia and one from the New South Wales Cricket Association (which triggered the major award). The Oval has been recognised as the Community Facility Project of the Year and if you’ve ever visited this incredible facility, you’ll know why. 

As well, there was a delightful midweek visit to Shoalhaven Neighbourhood Services in East Nowra for morning tea as part of their Neighbourhood Centre week celebrations. The team do an incredible job with a wide range of social, training and support activities for individuals, families and groups. Congratulations for your ongoing dedication to the community. Thank you Nadia and the team for a warm welcome and ongoing inspiration. 

Speaking of facilities and the places and spaces that we love to visit, Council has just kicked off its review of the Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan (CISP) which establishes a 30-year vision for community facilities and open spaces to help guide short, medium and long-term planning and investment. With more than 600 open spaces and community facilities across the Shoalhaven, we want to know what you want from the buildings, parks, pools, sportsgrounds and playgrounds in your neighbourhood. Make sure you do the survey.   

Next Tuesday I'll be heading down to the Ulladulla Civic Centre where the NSW Government will be holding its Community Cabinet. The event presents residents with an opportunity to engage with the NSW Premier, Chris Minns and Cabinet Ministers about local priorities. I hope you’ll consider attending as it presents a great opportunity for us all to raise issues that matter to us here in the Shoalhaven.  

One issue we tackled this week was around stormwater at Culburra and Orient Point. Residents will be pleased to know Council will now begin clearing your drains on a quarterly basis to help mitigate flooding of low-lying areas. Thank you to the residents out there who raised this with us. We’re pleased we could find a resolution and hope it will ease your concern, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. We should have a maintenance schedule up on Council’s website in the coming weeks. 

We also announced this week that specialised rehabilitation works on The Wool Road in Old Erowal Bay will begin after the long weekend in June. A single lane is being built so residents won't have to detour via Tomerong and we’ll keep you updated on the exact start date in the coming weeks. 

I’d also like to remind you of the important polices, strategies and plans we currently have on public exhibition. Please take some time to have a read and make sure your voice is heard.  

Have a great weekend.

Deputy Mayor,  

Peter Wilkins 

 

 

Friday 9 May

I’d like to start this week by congratulating Fiona Phillips on her reelection to the seat of Gilmore following the Federal election last weekend. I acknowledge the commitment of all the candidates who campaigned for the seat. I look forward to continuing to work with the Member for Gilmore and the Albanese Government to deliver important projects across the Shoalhaven.

Speaking of democratic process, the NSW Government will be holding its Community Cabinet at the Ulladulla Civic Centre on Tuesday 20 May. The event presents residents with an opportunity to engage with the NSW Premier, Chris Minns and Cabinet Ministers about local priorities. Registration is essential as seats are limited. I’ve provided a link below for more information.

 Community Cabinet | NSW Government

And if you’re looking for more important events to attend, Council and our emergency services partners are hosting a mini emergency management and recovery expo at the Sussex Inlet Community Centre on Wednesday 21 May from 5pm until 7pm.

Meet with the RFS, SES, Police, Marine Rescue, Fire Rescue, NSW Health and our floodplain and coastal teams at the expo. Get your questions answered and hear about emergency management and recovery services. The expo will also travel to Huskisson in July and Kangaroo Valley in September. Make sure to RSVP here.

We currently have several important policy documents on exhibition including our draft Delivery Program, Operation Plan and Budget 2025-26 and both the draft Lake Conjola and Shoalhaven River entrance management policies. We’ve recently extended the exhibition period for both EMPs, so I strongly encourage you to have a read and provide your feedback before the consultation period ends.  

Please also keep an eye out for our Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan review. With more than 600 open space and community facilities across the Shoalhaven, we’re asking what you want from the buildings, parks, pools, sportsgrounds and playgrounds in your neighbourhood. The plan establishes a 30-year vision to help guide short, medium and long-term planning and investment so, please make sure you have your say when it goes live next week.

Unfortunately, my next Open Office session at Sussex Inlet will be cancelled as I’ve been unwell this week. I will update you about the next opportunity to meet with me soon. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Council representatives in each of your wards or contact Council directly.

Mayor,

Patricia White

 

Friday 2 May 2025

The rain has been unrelenting this week and combined with the darker, cooler nights, it’s certainly feeling like we’re gearing up for winter.  

On Wednesday, the wet weather saw Tabourie Lake reach its planned opening level of 1.3 metres and the entrance was mechanically opened. In addition, the grass out the front of the Ulladulla Civic Centre is sodden, so make sure you enter from St Vincent Street where there’s a good concrete pathway if you’re headed to the polls this weekend. 

I had the great pleasure of announcing the winner of the Halloran Contemporary Art Prize People’s Choice Award at the Jervis Bay Museum at the weekend. Congratulations to Beric Henderson who received the most votes for his artwork ‘Landfall (29th April, 1770)’.  

I also popped into Mudgeroo Wombat and Wildlife Refuge to hear how they’re trying to secure their property and wildlife facilities. The refuge does such valuable work for our precious native animals and I was happy to offer advice on the steps they need to take so they can continue to operate. 

At this week’s Ordinary Meeting Council endorsed the Delivery Program, Operational Plan and budget 2025-26 which is now on exhibition. The document outlines what Council will deliver next financial year and also includes longer term community goals and objectives.  

The draft Community Strategic Plan 2035 is also on exhibition, detailing the community’s aspirations for the Shoalhaven and the actions Council will take to work toward achieving these goals for the long term. Make sure you have your say on these important documents. 

Shoalhaven Water is proposing an increase in water and sewer usage and availability charges to help cover the increased costs of providing these services, as well as raising funds required for future capital works projects. These extra funds will go towards the delivery of the Bamarang to Milton Water Trunk Main Stage 2 project and major sewerage treatment plant refurbishment. The treated water usage charge will increase from $2.50 to $2.85/kL although Shoalhaven Water will remain one of the most affordable for water customers in NSW. 

We also have important policy documents on public exhibition, and we’re keen for your feedback. I’d encourage you to have a read and have your say before the consultation period closes.  

My next Open Office session is on Saturday 10 May at the Sussex Inlet Neighbourhood Centre between 9.30am and 1pm so please swing by if you have something to discuss. 

Before I go, I’d like to share some personal news. Many of you will know that last December I underwent a surgical procedure to have melanoma removed from my cheek. At a recent check-up, more cancer was discovered, and I will once again need to undergo surgery. 

I’m optimistic about making a full recovery but it has once again reminded me about the importance of being sun-safe, particularly in this beautiful part of the world where we’re outside so often. I am guilty of not always wearing a hat and I implore you to please think of sun protection every time you leave the house.  

My procedure is a few weeks away yet, but I’ll be certain to keep you updated on how I'm going. 

Mayor,  

Patricia White 

Friday 24 April

What an absolutely glorious day it was for the Blessing of the Fleet Festival in Ulladulla on Sunday. The community really went above and beyond to make this one of the best celebrations ever and I was thrilled to be part of it. In line with the tradition, may there be a plentiful catch for our local fisherfolk and of course, may you stay safe from harm. 

The huge swells over Easter certainly made me think about the safety of our residents and visitors when in and around the water. With a spate of drowning deaths over the break, it’s a timely reminder to check the weather forecast and conditions along our coastline and please, always heed the warnings issued by authorities.  

On Monday we opened Lake Conjola to mitigate flooding, in anticipation of this week’s wet weather. Since the opening, we’ve had around 140 mm of rain in the catchment, and the lake has now exceeded its usual opening trigger level of 1 metre AHD. While the mechanical intervention has helped to mitigate some flooding of low-lying dwellings over the past few days, we have had to undertake further excavation works, to assist in drainage out to the ocean.  

I’d like to extend my thanks particularly to the member for South Coast, Liza Butler, who sought an exemption to the NSW Crown Lands Licence which allowed us to dig the initial pilot channel to open the lake. Liza and I remain committed to working together to find a long-term solution and I hope to update you on our progress soon. Thank you to staff for working to open the lake over the long weekend and on Wednesday. Most importantly, to the residents at Lake Conjola, I know it’s been a nervous wait so, thank you for your patience. Please be careful around the edges of the channel as they may be unstable and unsafe. There's more rain forecast this weekend, so please contact the SES if you require assistance. Council will continue to monitor conditions in the area across the weekend and will act accordingly.  

On Friday, I’ll be attending a Dawn service at Milton for Anzac Day before travelling to the morning service and march at Huskisson. Anzac Day is an important opportunity for all of us to reflect and play our respects to all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. I’d like to also acknowledge Australian men and women who are continuing to serve our country. Head to the Council website to find the full list of local services and associated road closures.  

We still have a couple of important policy documents on public exhibition, and we’re keen for your feedback. I’d encourage you to have a read and have your say before the consultation period closes.  

Unfortunately, I won’t be holding my next Open Office session on the 27 April as the Berry Village Markets, where I had been due to set up, have been cancelled due to the forecast wet weather. You can find me next in my office at the Nowra Administration Building on Friday 2 May from midday until 4pm. I look forward to meeting you.  

Mayor,  

Patricia White 

 

Friday 18 April

The school holidays are now in full swing and Easter is almost here. While our administration buildings will be closed over the break, many of our facilities have some great holiday activities on offer to keep you and the kids busy. Before you jump in the car, I implore you to plan your trip and drive to the conditions to keep your family and others safe on our roads.  

I’ll be attending the annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival in Ulladulla this Easter Sunday. The community event is now in its 68th year and is always a spectacular occasion, paying homage to a tradition dating back centuries. There’s truly something for everyone. You can find more details about the festival and its history on the Ulladulla Blessing of the Fleet website.  

Speaking of Ulladulla – our very own harbourside town hosted Channel Nine’s Today Show weather crosses on Tuesday morning. Thanks to the locals, businesses owners and Council staff who helped with the broadcast. It was a fantastic showcase of our beautiful region.  

Next week there will be a range of temporary local road closures as we come together to commemorate Anzac Day on Friday 25 April. It’s an important opportunity for all of us to reflect and pay our respects to all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. I’d like to also acknowledge the Australian men and women who are continuing to serve our country. Head to the Council website to find the full list of local services and associated road closures.  

I’d like to say a big congratulations to the Council staff involved in two major projects that received awards at the prestigious Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Engineering Excellence Awards last week. We won a Judges’ Excellence Award in Disaster Recovery for our landslip rehabilitation project along the Kangaroo Valley and Burrier escarpments and received a Highly Commended Award for our Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk design and construction. I would like to thank all the staff involved in both these projects – what an incredible achievement. 

Don’t forget, we’re still seeking your feedback on several key policies, plans and strategies. Your perspective is valuable and helps ensure we’re doing work that reflects your wants and needs. Here’s a list of the documents currently on exhibition.  

Finally, my next Open Office session will be on 27 April at the Berry Markets. You can find me at the Shoalhaven Autumn Celebration of Food stall from 11am to 1:30pm. I hope to see you there.  

Happy Easter!  

Mayor,  

Patricia White 

 

Friday 11 April 2025

If you’ve been driving through Nowra over the past week you might have seen Council crews mowing the verges along the Princes Highway. More than 6km of highway from the Nowra Bridge to the industrial estates of South Nowra is being mowed as part of a blitz, and staff will continue to maintain the stretch every four to eight weeks depending on the season. We may not all love the winter season but at least our lawns grow slowly.

Speaking of driving, I never miss an opportunity to remind motorists about road safety, particularly as we head into the busy school holidays and Easter break. We know our roads get more congested during this time but using Transport for NSW’s Journey Planner is a good way to see delay times and traffic pinch points.

Earlier this week I attended a forum at the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery where the four candidates for the seat of Gilmore talked about what they’ll deliver for the community in the lead up to the election. It gave me the opportunity to talk about Council’s city-shaping projects and how we’ll be seeking to work in partnership with all levels of government to ensure the best possible outcome for the community. You can see the visual document which features the infrastructure projects that would enable better connectivity, housing development and liveability for residents and visitors to the area on Council’s website.

We’re still mopping up after the huge swells of last week and Ulladulla Sea Pool remains closed until a full inspection can assess the extent of damage. On Wednesday, Council was able to open Tabourie Lake to the sea due to prolonged inundation conditions. The mechanical intervention follows an attempt by Council to open the lake’s entrance 10 days ago, however the big swells and storm wash-over pushed sand back into the channel after works were completed.

Council continues to work with Liza Butler MP on Lake Conjola matters and the EMP (Entrance Management Plan). You can watch the video we did together here.

Remember we’re always seeking your feedback on several important plans, policies, strategies and projects and you’ll find this list below.

We have road works happening across the city and welcome news for North Nowra with rehabilitation works on Illaroo Road starting mid-May. This is a major project funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and NSW Infrastructure Betterment Fund and will take several months to complete.

Don’t forget to head along to one of my upcoming Open Office sessions with my next session on 27 April at the Berry Markets from 11am to 1:30pm. You can find me in the Shoalhaven Autumn Celebration of Food stall. 

Mayor,

Patricia White

 

 

Friday4 April

 

Hazardous swell conditions and high tides have pounded the region this week, resulting in coastal erosion and rising water levels in some of our lakes and rivers. Crews will prepare to open Tabourie Lake, and are on standby to open Lake Conjola, if the waterways reach their trigger levels.  

Unfortunately, the Ulladulla Sea Pool also took a battering due to the big swell this week and it will be closed to the public until further notice.  The rough seas also damaged the Huskisson Sea Pool and the Bawley Point Gantry, both of which are closed to the public for now.  

It’s been a tumultuous time for our coastline as thousands of dead fish appeared on some of our local beaches recently. It’s unclear what exactly caused the problem, however changing water temperatures has been identified as a possible factor. NSW Department of Primary Industries is continuing to monitor the situation.  

Mowing along a 6km stretch of highway between Nowra Bridge and the industrial estates of South Nowra, is scheduled to begin next week. The mowing blitz will include night works to avoid disruption to motorists. We’ve also published our mowing schedule for parks and reserves across the city which shows the frequency of mowing planned for the 1,107 parks, reserves and open spaces that we maintain. You can find that on the mowing page on the website.  

We’re continuing to seek expressions of interest from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents who are keen to join Council’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee. If you’re passionate about advocating for programs, policies and initiatives for First Nations communities in the Shoalhaven and would like to help provide advice to Council about these issues, I’d encourage you to consider applying to be part of the committee.  

We’re currently seeking your feedback on several important plans, policies, strategies and projects. Your feedback on each of these is valuable as it ensures your wants and needs are reflected in every aspect of the work we do. I’ve included a list of the documents below for you to take a look and have your say.  

Don’t forget to head along to one of my upcoming Open Office sessions if you’d like to discuss one of these documents or another important topic. My next session will be on 27 April at the Berry Markets from 11am to 1:30pm. You can find me in the Shoalhaven Autumn Celebration of Food stall.  

Finally, my condolences go out to the family and friends of Geoff Starkey who passed away peacefully on March 23 after a short illness. He was well-known and respected within and outside the Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club and his passing will be felt by the local community.  

Mayor,  

Patricia White  

 

Friday 28 March 2025

On Saturday I have the great pleasure of visiting the upgraded Lake Conjola Fire Station and greeting our wonderful local RFS volunteers. We’re five years-on since the Shoalhaven was impacted by the devastating Currowan bushfire and I’m so pleased that we’ve been able to build new facilities to better prepare the local community. 

The $1.56 million improvement works were funded under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and included an extension, a new truck bay, a training room, office, kitchen and new amenities. 

Earlier this week, I attended an industry workshop on Council’s Community Strategic Plan. Thanks to the local businesses and community providers who told us what their vision is for the city over the next 10 years. The plan will reflect your needs and wishes for the villages where you live, work and play so make sure you have your say before the survey closes on Sunday. 

Good news for those who drive electric vehicles, or are thinking of getting one.  At Tuesday’s Council meeting, the go ahead was given for Shoalhaven’s second EV charging station at the Berry Street car park in Nowra (the other one is in Ulladulla). Council won't incur any costs, with the NRMA, under a Federal Government grant, responsible for the installation, infrastructure and maintenance. Look forward to seeing it up and running mid-year. 

Don’t forget to head along to one of my upcoming Open Office sessions if there’s an important matter you’d like to discuss. My next session will be on Tuesday 1 April at the Dunn Lewis Centre in Ulladulla from 2pm-5pm. I hope to see you there. 

Mayor,

Patrica White

Friday 21 March

As I've been out and about this week it’s been fantastic to see so many of you supporting Harmony Week by hosting and attending events that recognise and celebrate diversity and inclusion across our city.  

The Shoalhaven is a Refugee Welcome Zone and I’m proud of the strong relationships we’ve fostered with our multicultural leaders, organisations, governments and peak bodies to ensure we uphold the human rights of refugees and continue to be place where everyone has a sense of belonging.  

As we mark Harmony Day today (Friday 21 March), I’d like to encourage you all to wear orange to show your support for our different origins. Head to our What’s On webpage to find more local events across the city this weekend.  

Harmony Week 2025.jpg

What's On

Another important initiative we’re supporting is the global, Earth Hour movement. We’ll be turning off as many lights as possible at our administration buildings from 8:30pm on Saturday, to help raise awareness about climate change and the environment. Click here to find out how you can get involved too. 

Our crews have been busy working on several major local road projects. Preparation works are now underway to facilitate the replacement of major culvert along the Wool Road at Old Erowal Bay. That work is due to be completed in April. Pavement repairs on Illaroo Road at North Nowra are also continuing. Tenders for construction have been received and will be reported to next week’s Council meeting, with works expected to start in early May.   

Don’t forget to head along to one of my upcoming Open Office sessions if there’s an important matter you’d like to discuss. I’ll be available for a chat between 10am and 3pm today at the Nowra Administration Building. My next session will be on Tuesday 1 April at the Dunn Lewis Centre in Ulladulla from 2pm-5pm. I look forward to meeting you.  

Finally, I'd like to acknowledge the tragic passing of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery on Sunday afternoon. Airlie’s family came to visit me this week and requested that I thank the community on their behalf for the outpouring of support. They expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation for the kindness they have received during this incredibly difficult time and my heart goes out to them as they grapple with their unimaginable loss. 

Mayor,  

Patricia White 

Friday 14 March

Did you make it to the Milton Show last week? I was there last Friday, surrounded by hundreds of school children and their families, flowers, vegetables, artwork and of course the chooks and the cattle. 

The community spirit was certainly alive and well and I was so glad to see new faces and our regulars come up for a chat while I was enjoying the show. I’ll be back at the Nowra Administration Building on 21 March for my next open office session. Remember to check online for my other times which average fortnightly around my calendar. 

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Ulladulla Bus Lines and The Pines Motel who supported locals following the terrible vehicle accident on the Princes Highway last week. The school bus driver was quick to close the shutters so kids couldn't see the accident, then escorted them off the bus. Thanks to The Pines who fed and cared for the kids until the road was clear. 

It’s a timely reminder for motorists to please be vigilant while driving and to always obey the speed limit, particularly in the lead up to the Easter holidays when our roads get even busier. 

As part of Council’s financial sustainability plan, fleet and mechanical services have undergone an internal service review. As part of this, analysis of the number, requirement and use of the fleet has been performed to identify potential efficiency improvements. This report is now available for residents to read in the agenda of the Ordinary Council meeting on 11 March and can be found on Council’s website. 

Our Half Yearly Compliance Report has now been uploaded and provides a detailed overview of the regulatory functions carried out by Council to ensure community safety, health, and environmental sustainability. You can read the report for August 2024 to January 2025 here.  

Lastly, do you have a community event you’d like to promote? We’re inviting local groups to take advantage of our 26 hub screens across the region. Whether it’s a meeting, workshop or fundraiser, head to the website and see how to get your event up in lights. 

Mayor,  

Patricia White 

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