The theme for this week’s annual event is Songlines - the living narrative of our nation and celebrates the cultural beginnings of the dreamtime. I was pleased to deliver a grant of $2,000 to the Bathurst Local Aboriginal Land Council for community celebrations they will hold this week.

I am committed to partnering with our communities to foster pride in Aboriginal culture and heritage and NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to come together to celebrate this culture and what it brings to our communities. 

Official start of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS): The official start of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for more than 40,000 people with a disability living in NSW has commenced with the transition to the NDIS taking place over the next 12 months.  The NSW Government is delivering its commitment to transition to the NDIS by July 2018 and the scheme will give people with disability in NSW real choice and control over their lives.

Community Building Partnership Program: There have been a significant number of inquiries in regards to this program and this is a reminder that applications close on the July 22. If your organisation needs funding for the building, refurbishment or enhancement of facilities that deliver positive social, recreational, inclusive and environmental outcomes for the community, I encourage you to apply.  Applications are being accepted now and you can find more information by visiting www.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au

Winter Festivals across the Electorate: This is normally a time of year that sees most residents locked inside before the sun goes down and enjoying the warmth of a heater and a hot cuppa! This year across the electorate it’s a different story and it’s great to see our towns and villages embracing winter with a range of festivals and activities. From ice skating and ferris wheels to lighting and window displays, competitions and food and entertainment festivals, between 2 and 16 July you are sure to find something to entertain the family (just ensure you rug up!) The fantastic work our local councils, committees and local businesses put into these events for residents and to promote and drive tourism to the area is a credit to our communities.