Celebrating our community's strength and spirit

Published on 12 November 2025

This week, I have been reflecting on the heart and soul of the Macleay Valley. As I move around our community, I am constantly reminded of the hard-working locals who’ve shaped our region with grit, generosity, and a deep love for this land.

On Thursday last week, we proudly opened the Kempsey Regional Saleyards. The $9.6 million investment supported by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund provides a state-of-the-art facility that marks a new chapter for our agricultural sector.

This project is more than infrastructure. It’s a tribute to the generations of farmers and producers whose resilience has sustained our economy and community. The facility will serve us for years to come providing not just a Saleyards, but a place for connection. Learn more about the project: ksc.pub/saleyards

In the spirit of honouring our community, Macleay Home Hospice will be celebrating 20 years of dedicated service in our community this weekend. For two decades, this vital service has provided compassionate, dignified care to families during life’s most challenging moments. Their work is a shining example of the quiet strength that defines our valley. I encourage everyone to join in honouring the volunteers, nurses, and supporters who make this service possible.

On the 11 November, we paused to honour those who served and sacrificed for our freedom for Remembrance. Across the Macleay, ceremonies were held to pay tribute to our veterans and their families. Their courage is part of the foundation on which our community stands.

This week reminds us that the Macleay Valley is built on the shoulders of people who show up, dig deep, and lift others. Thank you for being part of this beautiful, resilient community.