Everyone is welcome to attend these workshops, just make sure you RSVP so COVID numbers can be adhered to. RSVP to Nicky Western on 0414 806 074.

Upper Hunter residents are invited to take part in one of five free online, cooling your home workshops run by Beyond Zero Emissions.

These workshops will guide participants through making their homes more liveable in summer with affordable retrofits and adaptions.

With summer around the corner it's the perfect time to take part, to participate register online via the link on council's website.

I am pleased to announce that as of October 5 Upper Hunter's vaccination rates are currently sitting at 92.3 per cent first dose and 66.9 per cent second dose putting us in first place in the vaccination challenge I issued to neighbouring mayors.

Neighbouring Shires are sitting at: Dungog Shire (88.4% and 58.7%), Singleton Shire (87.2% and 49.9%), Liverpool Plans Shire (85.3% and 52.7%) and Muswellbrook (81.3% and 47.7%).

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to keeping this community safe by getting vaccinated.

I remind residents that the Local Government Elections are coming up on December 4, 2021.

That means it's time to make sure you're enrolled and your details are up to date.

Don't delay, check your enrolment status at https://elections.nsw.gov.au.

The Upper Hunter Bulky Waste collection is almost here, make sure you place your waste out on the kerb on October 16 and 17 (Scone) and October 23 and 24 (Aberdeen, Blandford, Bunnan, Cassilis, Gundy, Merriwa, Moonan Flat, Murrurundi, Parkville and Wingen).

It's a service, Upper Hunter Shire Council is pleased to provide but ensure you visit our website to read the conditions.

The annual Mayor for a day competition is now open for School children of the Upper Hunter.

Applications are made available through all local schools and are set to close on October 22, 2021. I look forward to seeing the creative ideas that our local youth come up with.