Last week a community celebration was held to thank the Newry Island Bridge working group, Island residents, contractors, emergency services and Council staff for their co-operation during the Newry Island Bridge Refurbishment Project.
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With rain and wind forecast, Local Member for Coffs Harbour Andrew Fraser, residents and representatives from service groups joined the Mayor and General Manager in the Stan Myles Reserve to officially acknowledge the valuable contribution and exceptional teamwork of the many groups and organisations involved.
Following a Welcome to Country by Bellingen Shire Mayor, Cr Mark Troy, General Manager, Liz Jeremy said council understood the bridge restoration had been tough and had posed inconveniences to many.
“I offer an enormous thank you to the Newry Island community and everyone who worked with us for their patience, sense of community, practicality and resilience over many months to see the project through," Liz said.
Newry Island Bridge Group coordinator, Vanessa Hogan shared her story of the challenges faced as a resident and how the situation had strengthened their community.
Certificates of Appreciation were then awarded, the bridge was officially reopened with a ribbon cutting by Cr David Scott and Cr Steve Klipin before the skies opened and dispersed the crowd.
Congratulations to the Urunga Lions Club who continued to man the barbecue during high winds and bad weather.
Council recently received a Specific Purpose Grant from the NSW Government of $600,000 as a contribution toward the bridge.