As we step into the warmer months, I’m delighted to share some of the exciting updates and achievements happening across our municipality.
First, thank you to everyone who took part in our recent Community Satisfaction Survey. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us understand what matters most to you. The insights are shaping improvements in service delivery, policy, planning, and advocacy. We were particularly pleased to see positive responses around programs such as the Healthy George Town initiative, kerbside waste collection, and our cat desexing program. At the same time, we know there’s more work to do—especially in the way we communicate and engage with you.
That’s why, as part of our 2025/2026 Annual Plan, we’ll be reviewing our Community Consultation Framework. This will guide how we connect, listen, and respond to our community moving forward. We’ll soon be inviting you to share your thoughts, so please keep an eye out for upcoming consultation opportunities.
I’m also very pleased to confirm that our Caring for Cats Program will continue in the 2025/2026 financial year. After a successful pilot that saw 113 cats desexed and 115 microchipped, we’re proud to support responsible pet ownership and build on the great results already achieved.
August was a special month as we welcomed six new citizens to George Town from India, the Philippines, Canada, New Zealand, and Thailand. On behalf of our whole community, I
extend a warm welcome and best wishes for the future.
Progress continues on the new George Town Aquatic Health and Wellbeing Centre, and I look forward to sharing more details with you soon. In the meantime, our Spring/Summer Healthy George Town program is already underway, with free activities such as Zumba, meditation, and the return of Tai Chi—alongside many much-loved regular sessions.
Council also adopted the 2025/2026 Annual Plan in July, setting out key investments in services and facilities that will benefit our community. You can read the full plan on our website.
Finally, congratulations to the successful recipients of our Round 1 Community Assistance Grants for 2025/2026. These grants play an important role in supporting local organisations,
encouraging innovation, and strengthening social connections. We’re excited to see the positive impact these projects will bring.
At George Town Council, our focus remains on building a vibrant and inclusive community for everyone. I look forward to connecting with you in the months ahead and hearing your ideas for future initiatives. Please also keep an eye out for the release of our 2024/2025 Annual Report in November.
Message from the Mayor
Cr Greg Kieser
