The first months of the year have been both productive and celebratory across our municipality. From welcoming new citizens and recognising outstanding community contributions on Australia Day, to progressing major infrastructure projects and delivering a vibrant calendar of arts and community events, it has been a period of strong momentum. I am pleased to share the following highlights and upcoming opportunities with our community.
On Australia Day, we welcomed five new Australian citizens from Germany, China, India, the Philippines and New Zealand. We also celebrated those who make our municipality stronger through our Australia Day Awards:
- Citizen of the Year: Richard Little
- Young Citizen of the Year: Satayah Moore
- Community Event of the Year: Jazz by the Sea
We were honoured to have Kristine Bull as our 2026 Australia Day Ambassador.
Our gratitude goes out to the Rotary Club of George Town for providing a delicious breakfast and to the Country Women’s Association for serving the tea and coffee. Following the official ceremony, over 600 community members and visitors enjoyed an afternoon of fun at the East Beach recreation area, with laser tag, family games, live music, and plenty of ice cream and sausages.
In February, we reached a significant milestone in the delivery of our new Aquatic, Health and Wellbeing Centre, with construction officially transitioning “out of the ground” as the building structure begins to take shape.
Council’s Infrastructure Department has had a busy few months, undertaking several key projects to improve local roads across the municipality, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining and improving critical infrastructure across the municipality.
Our 2026 gallery program is well underway with a series of contemporary art exhibitions on display until the 12th of July
2026. Visit our website for full details. Each month features a new artist or artist pairing at either the Jim Mooney Gallery or the Watch House Gallery, showcasing thoughtful and innovative work from artists from across Tasmania as well as artists with strong connections to Kinimathatakinta/George Town.
Our Council Community Information Sessions will be taking place in March, allowing councillors and the team to connect directly with residents across the municipality. We welcome all community members to come along and participate.
There’s plenty to look forward to in the coming months, including:
- Solstice in the Square – Friday 19th of June
- Art Exhibitions and openings – until July
- Miniature Mariners Exhibition at the Bass & Flinders Maritime Museum
- Art Ages Workshops in April/May
- Youth Week
- Volunteer Week
As always, I am proud to lead such a dynamic and engaged community. Your involvement, dedication, and passion make George Town a truly special place to call home.
George Town Council Mayor
Greg Kieser
