Mayor's Column: Welcoming student leaders to Council

Published on 14 May 2025

mayor and councillors with students from high schools for the school leaders forum

Giving young people a voice, respecting their perspective and encouraging them to dream about a future is a passion of mine through both my professional and Council roles. My work at Country Universities Centre gives me the privilege of working closely with hundreds of young people who are committing to their studies, networking and exploring job opportunities all while getting to stay living in the Macleay Valley.

I recently hosted Council’s 2^nd School Leaders Forum. In a workshop style format, 23 student leaders from all five high schools worked with Councillors to develop and share their perspectives, ideas and aspirations for the future. By participating, the students also gain a deeper understanding of how local government works and the impact it has on community.

I initiated the forum through a notice of motion in 2023 during my first term as Councillor and it was a highlight to lead the session as Mayor. One of the most positive outcomes of the forum is seeing the students relax and share their thoughts, knowing they are in an environment where they are being respected and heard by Councillors, our community leaders.

Whether it was working through the economic and social benefits of more music festivals, a plan for a multipurpose student study space or the vision of a cross functional indoor sports centre, the students' ideas are inspirational and valid.

In stage two of the program, the leaders will present their ideas to Councillors and community during the May Council meeting. It’s fitting that at this meeting we will also be considering the Community Strategic Plan, our guiding strategic document for the next 20 years.

The School Leaders Forum is empowering and compliments students in their leadership roles, providing a tangible way for Council to build and nurture the voice of local young people. Thank you to my fellow Councillors who participated in the workshop and who will support the leaders in their presentations at next Tuesday’s Council meeting.

This is a news update from Kempsey Shire Council. The information is correct at the time of publication.