It was an honour to attend the Young Woman Ambassador and Royal Bathurst Show Dinner last Saturday evening. For decades, this event has empowered young women in the Bathurst Region to step forward, use their voices and lead with strength. All the 2025 ambassadors were worthy of a win, yet congratulations are especially in order for Jasmyn Nankervis, this year’s winner, and Ivy Sykes, this year’s runner-up. Best of luck as well to Izzy Smith, our 2024 Young Woman Ambassador, who will be representing Bathurst at next week’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.
I was delighted to attend an Easter Art Competition at Holy Family School Chapel this Tuesday. Uniting schools across the region, this was a tremendous occasion showcasing their artistic talent. Congratulations again to Mercedes Simmonds, the recipient of the Mayor’s Award for her piece entitled ‘From Vine to Vein’.
On Thursday, Council welcomed The Nationals’ election pledge of $14.9million in funding for critical infrastructure upgrades at our Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit to ensure this venue remains a premier motorsports destination for years to come. Nearing its 90th anniversary, The Mount is understandably needing some repairs, and this prospective multi-million-dollar investment will enable Bathurst Regional Council to complete essential refurbishment works to the circuit, kerbs, tyre barriers, and other critical restorations.
Coming up this evening, I’m looking forward to a fantastic opening night of two new exhibitions at BRAG. A new exhibition by artist Tina Havelock Stevens which is inspired by, yet not about, Bathurst, will connect with all of us who live and work in this wonderful town. Additionally opening this evening is a Youth Week Collaborative Exhibition titled ‘I Am’. This vibrant, contemporary piece celebrates the unique strengths of young people across our region and recognises their individual and collective power, as our current and future influencers, leaders, and decision makers.
And excitingly, tomorrow marks day 1 of our annual Heritage Trades Trail. This event is a hallmark of our region’s annual Autumn Colours Heritage Festival, celebrating the cultural significance of Bathurst’s rich history. The Heritage Trades Trail has been recognised at both the NSW Tourism Awards and National Trust Heritage Awards and is a wonderful fusion between Council, our community groups and a passionate core of volunteer organisers. This event is a superb showcase of heritage trades with something for all ages and interests. Last year’s event attracted over 2,100 attendees, so I very much look forward to seeing the bustle of activity and visitors at the Showground this weekend.
Plus of course, don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Hi-tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour next week! Taking place next Sunday, the 6 Hour will bring The Mount to life with a record 72 entries. Bathurst is renowned as the home of motor racing, and events such as the Hi-Tec Oils 6 Hour prove this.
Robert Taylor
Mayor of Bathurst