As we welcome the cooler days and crisp evenings leading into Winter, I extend a warm greeting to each and every one of you. This time of year offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the many milestones, achievements, and community moments that continue to shape and strengthen our vibrant municipality.
One of the most exciting developments underway is the progress of the George Town Aquatic Centre. Construction is advancing well, with the structure rapidly taking shape and several significant milestones already achieved on site. You can read more about the latest progress in this edition of the newsletter.
Last week, we had the privilege of celebrating and recognising the incredible volunteers who contribute so much to our community. Our annual Volunteer of the Year Awards and Recognition Night brought together inspiring stories of generosity, dedication, and service, reminding us all of the important role volunteers play in making the George Town municipality such a special place to live.
Congratulations to our outstanding 2026 award recipients:
- Rising Star Volunteer Service Award (up to 5 years): Bell Hawkins
- Major Volunteer Service Award (5–10 years): Allan Wiles
- Outstanding Volunteer Service Award (over 10 years): Tania Flanagan
- Lifetime Volunteer Service Award (over 20 years): Jean Hampton
On behalf of Council and the wider community, thank you to all volunteers for the invaluable work you do. Your contributions help build a stronger, more connected future for us all.
This October, local government elections will take place. If you are passionate about shaping the future of our community, I encourage you to consider nominating for Council. Over the coming months, Council will host information sessions to provide prospective candidates with an insight into the role and responsibilities of being a Councillor. Further information will be shared soon.
As we approach the end of the financial year, Council continues to work towards achieving the goals outlined in our Annual Plan, while also preparing for the 2026/2027 financial year.
I’m also pleased to share that our third annual Solstice in the Square event will be held on 19 June. I encourage everyone to come along and enjoy this wonderful opportunity to connect and celebrate together as a community.
Our Creative George Town program for the first half of 2026 is also drawing to a close, although there is still time to experience two excellent exhibitions currently on display:
Suemi Chiba
Watch House Gallery
Now open and closes Sunday, 21 June 2026.
Alastair Mooney
Jim Mooney Gallery
Opening Event: Saturday 30 May 2026, 11am
Closes: Sunday, 12 July 2026
The exhibition opening includes an artist talk, offering audiences the opportunity to connect directly with the ideas behind the work. Presented as part of the Creative George Town program, these exhibitions bring contemporary art from across Tasmania to our region and foster meaningful connections between artists, audiences, and place.
Thank you for your continued support, involvement, and community spirit. Together, we continue to make George Town a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.
Mayor, Cr Greg Kieser
