It was wonderful to see so many people in attendance and paying their respects to our servicemen and women.

Congratulations to Sarah Boorer who was crowned as this year’s Reliance Bank Royal Bathurst Showgirl. Sarah is an announcer at 2BS and has been heavily involved in community events such as International Women’s Day, Relay for Life, Brucedale Twilight Concert and Lions Club Youth of the Year.

The show has become a firm fixture for many people and provides an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a great time out. Whether it’s witnessing entries in competitions, demonstrating the very best arts and crafts, produce and baked goods, enjoying the variety of entertainment on offer or the lights and sounds of sideshow alley, there is something for everyone.

Council has announced a new agreement with Penrith Panthers which has cemented the partnership to bring a Panthers NRL match to Bathurst until 2028. This is great news for the city and supporters of the game.

As part of the ongoing arrangement, the Panthers will take part in a series of community engagement activities in the days leading up to the NRL game, including school visits and coaching clinics.

The deal builds on our city’s strong reputation as a destination for major sporting events and council has played a key role in providing the very best facilities to ensure they attract premium events such as the NRL.

Mayor Graeme Hanger

THIS weekend we celebrate the 159th show in Bathurst. 

The show acknowledges many of our talented local residents in arts, crafts and cooking as well as giving the opportunity to see some of the outstanding livestock grown right here in our backyard. 

Our show has long been an opportunity to recognise and celebrate all that is great within our region, and is an event I look forward to attending with my family every year. 

With many improvements to facilities through the Public Reserves Management Fund (PRMF), and the showground’s placement on the State Heritage Register, it’s a great facility to host this important event. 

Make sure you support the show.

Schools are back

THERE are some excited children (and parents) this week as school resumes. 

Please remember that school zones are in operation again and you must slow down to 40km/h in school zones. 

There is also a 40km/h speed limit for traffic passing a school bus that is setting down or picking up school children. This speed limit is for all traffic travelling in the same direction as the bus, whether the bus is stationary or moving.

Funding boost

THE NSW Government’s Investing in Women grants program is now open, and I urge eligible local organisations to apply. This program is a fantastic way to find new local initiatives that invest in education, leadership and financial security for women. 

This program provides funding for organisations to develop and implement projects that support the economic empowerment and leadership of women in NSW across three areas – work and financial security, education and learning, and leadership. 

Grants of up to $25,000 per project are available to organisations such as local councils, employers, industry bodies, training organisations and non-government organisations. 

Applications close on Wednesday, May 24. Visit https://www.women.nsw.gov.au/women_and_work/investing_in_women_funding_program