As the summer months draw to a close, we are deeply grateful for the firefighters and their supporters who have worked tirelessly during this time. While the February fires were on the West Coast, members of our own community joined the fire crews, career emergency service personnel, and volunteers to help. This year, the Central Coast will place a special focus on volunteerism, beginning with Tasmania’s first Volunteering Strategy and Action Plan north-west forum in Ulverstone this February. We will also welcome a visit from Federal Minister Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP in early March for Volunteering Tasmania, alongside the long-awaited launch of our Community Directory. I was fortunate to attend the PALM Regional Engagement Forum recently, where Pacific Islander seasonal workers, their employers, and state and federal government teams came together. We discussed practical matters such as road rules, fishing regulations, and health insurance, as well as personal aspirations and goals. Our community development team will continue collaborating with the PALM Scheme coordinators to ensure we make their time on the Central Coast as welcoming and supportive as possible. Special thanks to the Ulverstone Uniting Church for hosting a welcoming service, and to the Rotary Club of Ulverstone for providing the BBQ breakfast. A series of events celebrating 150 years of the Penguin township will unfold throughout the year. The Council is excited to support these celebrations – and there are some delightful surprises in store. Be sure to mark March 23rd in your family calendar for the Penguin Waddle along the foreshore. Bring the kids for a fun Waddle and a free BBQ! Until next time. Mayor Cheryl Fuller