Message from Councillor Tracey Morris

Published on 25 July 2025

I would like to begin by sincerely thanking the Leeton Shire community for the privilege of serving you as a Councillor for a fourth term. It’s a role I take on with great pride, and I look forward to continuing to represent you across a wide range of important events and initiatives within our Shire.

Earlier this month, Leeton was abuzz with celebration as we embraced all things Art Deco during the three-day Festival held from 11 to 13 July 2025. The event brought our town to life, drawing many visitors and showcasing our vibrant local culture. Our iconic architectural gems were on full display, and the recently refurbished Roxy Theatre and Chelmsford Place shone brightly as they hosted several of the weekend’s highlights.

Events like these, and many others held throughout the year, simply wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers. Whether it’s a sporting match, festival, community market, museum, eisteddfod, the Roxy Theatre or support service like Meals on Wheels or Community Transport, these activities are made possible thanks to the committed individuals who give their time and energy. Our volunteers truly are the heart of our community. They work side by side with Council to ensure events and services happen, and I want to extend my deepest thanks to each and every one of them.

Council continues to do its best to support community needs by maintaining facilities and delivering services across the Shire. Many of these services are delivered on Council-owned or managed land, and while we do our utmost with the resources available, it’s important to acknowledge the financial pressures we face. Rising costs and the ongoing shift of responsibilities from State Government to local councils have stretched our capacity. One area where I represent our community is on the Audit and Risk Committee, a mandatory body now made up of external paid members, which plays an important role in ensuring good governance.

I also serve as Leeton’s representative on the Murray Darling Association Region 9. This forum gives local governments the opportunity to advocate on crucial issues like water policy and basin management at both State and Federal levels. These matters affect us all, and I encourage residents to stay informed and involved where possible. The upcoming Annual Conference will be held in Griffith from 29 September to 3 October 2025, and I encourage anyone with an interest in water management and regional sustainability to consider attending.

On a different note, I warmly invite the community to come together next Tuesday, 29 July 2025, to celebrate NAIDOC Week. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, honours the rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It will be a powerful and meaningful occasion for us all.

Finally, a quick reminder that applications are now open for the 2025/26 Local Heritage Grants Program. This funding supports owners and lessees of heritage-significant properties in undertaking restoration projects such as façade repairs. If you are eligible and interested, please visit leeton.nsw.gov.au for more information and to apply.

Thank you again for your continued support and for the opportunity to serve our Shire.

Warm regards,
Cr Tracey Morris