Sadly, our country has had a devastating start to 2020 and I would like to send my well wishes to the many families and communities that have been affected by the bushfires. I am pleased to say, we have reached out through our local government network to other councils across NSW and offered a helping hand where we can. Let's hope the worst is behind us and the recovery and healing process can now begin.

We ourselves had a close call with fires at Wangi Wangi and Wyee two weeks ago, but nothing in comparison to the sheer ferocity that other communities have faced across the country. A big thank you needs to go to the NSW Rural Fire Service, volunteers and other emergency services who have worked tirelessly to ensure our community is safe.

The holiday period is continuing for many in our community and we're lucky to be blessed with some of the most beautiful natural coastlines, parks and waterways right in our own backyard, so no wonder many locals are choosing to staycation in the City. Please remember that if you are heading to the beach, pool or out on the lake this summer, please remember to drive safely because there are more children out and about during the holidays.

If you are looking for some inspiration during the school holidays, make sure you visit lakemac.com.au for some ideas to help you explore our stunning coastline and make the most of our wonderful City.

This time of year offers an opportunity to reflect on the previous year and look ahead at what's to come. It is going to be another exciting year for Lake Macquarie with a series of projects scheduled for completion in 2020, including the Munibung Road extension that will help trigger an injection of life in the North-West of our City.

We all enjoy weekends out on the water, scattered around the lake whether it's fishing around Swansea, taking a dip at Naru Point or jet skiing at any number of locations. I love to see all the action on the water, so I'm pleased that in the next few months we will complete construction of Speers Point and Wangi Wangi jetties providing more options for recreation on our lake.

Thank you for all the support in 2019 and I look forward to working with our community in the year ahead.