THE Hawks Nest Tea Gardens Progress Association is pleased to provide this mid-year update on our activities, advocacy, and upcoming plans for the rest of 2025-26.
We hosted a successful, self-funded Seniors Festival in May and proudly supported this year’s ANZAC Day commemorations, including a donation to the local school in recognition of its role in preserving this important tradition.
In the same month, we attended the Tea Gardens Public School Parliament, an inspiring glimpse into the leadership potential of our young people.
Our community defibrillator project is progressing well, thanks to the work of our volunteers, NSW Ambulance and Service NSW.
Around 20 local AEDs are being registered on the GoodSAM app, making them visible in emergencies.
For those without smartphones, we’ll be distributing a free fridge magnet listing AED locations and emergency contacts.
We’re also identifying areas where new defibrillators are needed to fill local coverage gaps.
We’ve formally requested a children’s crossing on Witt Street and raised concerns about pelicans damaging infrastructure on the Singing Bridge.
Essential Energy is now involved, and we are working toward a solution that protects both safety and wildlife.
In June, vandalism across several public amenities was reported to police and Council, with volunteers and the Lions Club assisting in repairs.
We continue to work closely with the Myall River Artwalk Group. Recent efforts include relocating the Library’s “Pioneer People” poles, restoring the ‘Relic’ sculpture, repairing ANZAC mural panels, and resurfacing murals at Lions Park and Bennett’s Beach to protect them from sun damage.
Thanks to our Treasurer, Kay Jones, the Association remains in a strong financial position.
However, fundraising will continue to support ongoing expenses.
We’re also preparing grant applications for a 2026 Seniors Festival and a major upgrade of the Community Hall.
Council-related reports and requests this year include road repairs, drainage improvements, graffiti removal, and air-conditioning repairs at the Community Hall.
Volunteers are also refreshing native gardens around Lions Park, the pool, and other public areas. We’ve begun lobbying our new Federal MP, Alison Penfold, to address ongoing Telstra service issues, which continue to affect communication and safety in our community.
Looking ahead, we’ve prioritised a number of local projects – including Jimmys Beach improvements, more footpaths, riverside erosion, drainage and more.
These priorities will help shape our advocacy and grant activity into 2026.
Key upcoming events include a MidCoast Council Community Conversation on 29 June, general meetings on 10 August and 12 October, and our AGM on 17 November.
Committee meetings are held monthly.
Finally, we encourage all residents to join or renew their membership this August for 2025-26.
A strong membership base helps amplify our voice and secure support for local initiatives. Even if you can’t attend meetings, your support still matters.
For more information, please visit www.hntgprogressassociation.com, email HNTGprogress@gmail.com, or call 0432 764 333.
Together, we continue to advocate for the Myall Coast and the community we’re proud to call home.
Sincerely,
Bruce MURRAY,
Secretary and Management Committee,
HNTGPA.
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