The past year has been one of transformative progress, centred on a strategic focus of review and continuous improvement. This ongoing program remains fundamental to our vision as we work to elevate the governance and administration of Local Government in North Sydney, setting the bar for excellence and best practice in everything we do.
With the appointment of the new Executive Leadership team at the start of the year, we immediately turned our attention to a comprehensive organisational review and realignment. Our objective was clear: to create a more agile and responsive structure that aligns services, eliminates inefficiencies, and strengthens accountability across all service units. This process was not only about structural change but also about fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. The strong involvement and commitment of our workforce throughout this journey have been instrumental, demonstrating a shared determination to achieve excellence at every level of the organisation.
Our efforts were proudly recognised with a Highly Commended Award at the 2024 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards, affirming the value of our approach and the impact of our continuous improvement initiatives. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff and the success of our collective efforts to build a stronger, more effective organisation for the future.
Every effort has been made to improve the trajectory of the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment project, including the engagement of external project managers to help manage and mitigate associated risks. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, with ongoing project delays and escalating costs. Coupled with recent revenue reductions and a growing backlog in infrastructure renewal, these financial pressures have placed the Council in an unsustainable position. As we look ahead, a structural shift in Council finances will be crucial to maintain service levels and effectively respond to the needs of a growing population.
In spite of these challenges, our workforce has remained focused on delivering services and supporting the community. Their resilience and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining stability during a period of change.
Our parks and gardens have been beautifully presented, our streets are clean and well-maintained, and we’ve continued to preserve and protect our bushland. The vibrancy of our community is evident in places like Stanton Library, which remains a hub of joy and inclusion, and in the improvements made to our streetscapes. Community spirit has also shone through, whether at North Sydney Oval where locals gathered to support the Matildas during the World Cup, or at our summer festivals and activations.
Sustainability has remained a central focus for us. This year, Bushcare celebrated its 25th year of the Bridges to Boorowa initiative, and the Living Futures Sustainability Festival underscored the importance of sustainable practices to our community. These events not only showcase our commitment to environmental stewardship but also highlight the collective efforts of our community in working toward a sustainable future.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on the challenges and opportunities the coming year will bring. Our goal is to ensure North Sydney Council is well-positioned to navigate them effectively. I commend the contributions of our community and the professionalism and dedication of our staff. Together, we look forward to continuing to serve the North Sydney community in the year ahead.
Therese Manns, Chief Executive Officer