Philled In: A look at the Mayor’s September engagements
What does a month in the Mayor’s diary look like? In September, it was primarily filled with media commitments following the announcement by KordaMentha and Premier Peter Malinauskas that the blast furnace could not be restarted.
Mayor Stone was interviewed by journalists from across the country, wanting to know the impact this would have on our community.
“It is essential that the community encourages everyone impacted to seek out the many services, assistance and advice on offer, and for all of us to do everything we can to support each other,” Mayor Stone said.
“Despite the tough times ahead, I believe our city still has a long-term future thanks to major state and federal government support. The Steelworks WILL be sold, the buyer WILL transition as part to modern steel making practices and expansion at the mines WILL be part of the new way forward.”
“Unfortunately, this will take several years before Whyalla will once again be a centre of Australian manufacturing. However, more immediately our community just wants the government to announce the successful bidder sooner than later.”
“While we adopt to the expected change, it’s important that potential partners and investors with an interest in our city are reminded that this doesn’t change the end game and the sale of the Steelworks.”
Following the announcement, Mayor Stone has met with numerous agencies and politicians – including Leader of the Opposition Ashton Hurn – to discuss how they can support the community, as well as helping promote the Worker Information Sessions and Worker Transition Centre
On a lighter note, Mayor Stone attended the Whyalla Combined Primary Schools’ Festival of Music on 17 September, joining families and teachers to watch local students perform.
“There’s something special about seeing a theatre full of families cheering on their children – the students put so much into their performances, and I was genuinely impressed by the talent on show,” he said.
Other engagements for the past month included meeting with Music SA Chief Executive Officer Christine Scholithe; discussing topical regional issues with fellow Eyre Peninsula mayors; and helping promote the upcoming Garage Sale Trail.
These are just some of Mayor Stone’s September engagements. The full list is available in the September Council agenda (head to page 176 if the link doesn’t take you directly to it).
