While we are still feeling the effects of the bushfires and the drought, I'd like to remind you council is here for you and, as always, will assist where we can.

It's been a challenging time for many local businesses and as our visitors start to leave it's really important we think about how we can support local. If we were all to visit a local small business once more each week, it would make a big difference.

Australia Day is this Sunday, and our national day is a great opportunity to take some time out and really appreciate how lucky we are to live in the best place in the world.

So throw on your flip-flops, get the barbecue ready and let's all celebrate what it means to be an Aussie.

There will be lots of community events and I'll be in Port Macquarie, the Camden Haven and Wauchope, with our Australia Day Ambassador, Justin Herald. I look forward to hearing his inspirational story and I hope to share the day with as many of you as possible.

We'll also be welcoming 37 new Aussie citizens at ceremonies on Sunday, and it's always an absolute thrill to see the smiling faces as our new mates take the oath and pledge their allegiance to our special place.

I thank everyone who has engaged with council in the past year. I encourage everyone, from the young to the young at heart, to be active members of our community. Get involved and have your say, as we shape our region's future.

It's an honour to be your mayor, and I look forward to working hard on your behalf during 20 Plenty.