This Friday, 8 March is International Women's Day. I think we all know some magnificent women in our community that have had a positive impact on our lives. Personally, I don't have to look far to find inspirational women who have played a big part in my life. Growing up, my mum was the one in our family who kept everything together. She was always the one I went to when I needed something. Even now, she is still the one that I go to when I need guidance or advice. My wife Leanne is the backbone of our family. She works a full time job and keeps our family going, she is the one in charge! She also spends two days each week in Melbourne looking after our son while he isn't well. My sister-in-law Shelley works full time, studies law and maintains her family which includes two kids and a husband! She also fits in travel all over the state taking the kids to play sport. I am grateful for all three of these women, for all that they do for others and themselves. They are strong, independent and incredible. I think we all have inspirational women in our lives that we know about. Let's give all the amazing women we know the recognition they deserve. Council is partnering with Gippsland Women's Health this year, to present a double feature of films at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre on International Women's Day. Colette will screen at 11.00am and On the Basis of Sex will screen at 2.00pm.

Speaking of inspirational, last Tuesday we celebrated Bass Coast's future leaders, with the Bass Coast Young Leaders Awards night. Grade 6, Year 11 and VCAL students from 12 Bass Coast schools attended the event, which was held at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre. The young people recognised on the night were selected for their strong leadership qualities and sense of social justice it's not about who is the smartest, or best at sport it's about being a good person.

Last Wednesday morning's visit from the federal shadow minister for Climate Change and Energy Mark Butler was a great opportunity to acknowledge the exciting and important work happening in Bass Coast with community renewable energy projects. The Energy Innovation Cooperative is leading the way towards sustainable and totally renewable communities. Led by talented, passionate individuals, this group and many others are working tirelessly toward the goal of a more sustainable future, a goal which Council shares and is driven to achieve.

Recently, I attended the Back to Nam Concert at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum at Newhaven. It was an awesome night overall, but I just wanted to shine a light on some super local talent. The Times features two lads from Cape Woolamai, Dave and Mark and they absolutely smashed it. With just a drum kit, a guitar and vocals, they were amazing and are well worth having a listen to.

Cr Brett Tessari, Mayor

Bass Coast Shire Council