FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK: Bringing events to Raymond Terrace

THERE’S a great energy building around Raymond Terrace.

Over the next few weeks, our town will be in the spotlight with two massive events that will bring the community together.

First up is Illuminate this Saturday, 19 September, at Boomerang Park from 4pm to 8pm.

It’s going to be a fantastic evening filled with live music, fire twirlers, food, stalls, and a fireworks display you don’t want to miss.

What makes Illuminate special is the community effort behind it.

Our local school kids have been busy making lanterns during school workshops, while local businesses and community organisations have worked alongside Council to bring the night to life.

It’s a true celebration of Raymond Terrace, and I encourage everyone to come along.

Just a few weeks later, Raymond Terrace will welcome thousands of visitors for the Koori Knockout, held at King Park from 2 to 5 October.

The Koori Knockout is one of Australia’s largest Aboriginal sporting and cultural gatherings, and we expect around 10,000 players, families and supporters from across New South Wales.

We’ve been working closely with the Newcastle Yowies and local stakeholders to prepare King Park and ensure a welcoming experience for participants and visitors.

It’s a huge opportunity for us to step up as major sponsors, back our Aboriginal community, and show visitors from right across NSW what makes Raymond Terrace so special.

Events like these are so important for our town centres. They bring foot traffic to our local shops, bring life to our parks, and give us all a chance to connect with a larger community.

I’m excited to be part of the community spirit that shines here in Port Stephens and to highlight what a great place it is to live, work, visit, and invest.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Mayor Leah Anderson,

Port Stephens.