Cr Karen Pensabene, Mayor of Strathfield

Dear Residents,

This week marked a significant milestone for Strathfield as we celebrated the 100^th year anniversary grand opening of our newly renovated Town Hall.  The renovation project has been ongoing for a few months now, and it is now a space that our community can be proud of. The Town Hall has been restored to its former glory and is equipped with modern amenities to better serve our residents.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, we hosted a grand opening dinner on Monday 9 October 2023. It was a night of joy, camaraderie, and unity as we came together to celebrate our town's rich heritage, history and promising future. The event was attended by special guests, including our Federal Member of Parliament, Sally Sitou, and our State Member of Parliament, Mr. Jason Yat-sen Li. Their presence made the evening even more special, and we are grateful for their support.

The evening was made even more memorable by the presence of former Mayors and Councillors who joined us for the 100^th year celebration dinner. Their dedication and service to our community were acknowledged and appreciated.

A panel discussion on the topic of our community was held during the dinner. We had the privilege of hearing perspectives from our local members as well as two insightful Strathfield Year 11 High School Students, Jeremy Simonetto from St Patrick's College and Noor Joshi from Strathfield Girls High School. The discussion revolved around the history of our community and how we envision our community's future. It was an inspiring conversation, and it reaffirmed our commitment to building a better Strathfield.

In conjunction with Council, Strathfield-Homebush District Historical Society also made a valuable contribution to the evening. They gave an insightful presentation on the history of our Town Hall, shedding light on the political and social events that have shaped our community over the years. As a bonus, an exhibition on this history will be available in our local library commencing on 1 November 2023. I encourage you all to visit the library and explore this remarkable collection.

In addition to the grand opening of our Town Hall, we held our Ordinary Council meeting this week. During this meeting, discussions were centred around a proposed pilot program aimed at improving the appearance of our shop fronts, enhancing pedestrian safety and shopfront security. This initiative, while focusing on modernising our town, will also take into consideration our heritage and the need to preserve the character of our historic buildings.

This proposed program underscores our commitment to creating a vibrant and safe environment for all residents and visitors while maintaining the unique charm and character of Strathfield.

This week has been filled with significant events, from celebrating the reopening of our Town Hall to crucial discussions about the future of our LGA. I want to express my gratitude to all who have contributed to these initiatives and to all the residents who continue to make Strathfield the wonderful community it is.

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead.

As always, if you require any further information or need to contact me, please do by phone 9748 9999 or email cr.kpensabene@strathfield.nsw.gov.au

Strathfield Business Forum

Celebrate Small Business Month and listen to NSW Treasurer, the Hon. Daniel Mookhey and Member of Strathfield, Jason Yat-sen Li discuss the NSW budget and the Governments economic priorities.

This forum will include how to support businesses to grow and thrive, a Q&A and an opportunity to network with other community members.

When: Thursday 26 October 2023, 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Venue details to be provided upon registration.

Capacity is limited – book your spot today!

This event is proudly funded by the NSW Government.

Image Courtesy National Library of Australia

Musician, Marcus Burkitt (1903-1974)

Happy 100th birthday, Strathfield Town Hall!

Strathfield Town Hall has hosted many prominent musicians during its 100 years. Pianist, Marcus Burkitt gave a concert there in November 1936. Blind since birth, he lived at Yandilla, 25 Gelling Avenue, Strathfield. His solos included Beethoven’s Sonata Opus 13, Chopin compositions, Debussy’s Clair de Lune and Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No.5, accompanied by his sister, mezzo-soprano, Marjory. His repertoire of 350 pieces were all learned by ear.

‘I have never forgotten a note I have ever learned… I believe I could play any of those 350 pieces without serious mistake at a minute’s notice.’