In just two-and-a-half-years, Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold has achieved many things.
And, with the Lower Hunter LGA currently undergoing a vibrant transformation, whether it’s in Thornton or Farley, Morpeth or Lochinvar, the majority of residents would agree.
But, he’s also fully aware there is still a lot more to be done.
It’s the main reason Cr Penfold has already put his hand up to continue the role when the 2024 NSW Local Government elections roll around on Saturday 14 September.
“It’s a terrific job, in a beautiful part of the world,” he said.
“What’s not to love?
“I’m greatly enjoying it.
“I think the response from the community has been heartening, too.
“We’re really kicking some goals in the city.
“People can see the changes taking place in front of their eyes… there’s a lot of action at sportsgrounds, playgrounds, public spaces etc.
“They’re appreciating me in the role, so I’m seeking their support again for the election in September.
“I’m particularly proud council’s put the focus on roads and traffic.
“However, we also committed to reversing Labor’s decision to have more fortnightly bin collections – and keep them weekly in Maitland.
“We implemented the bulk waste kerbside pick-ups, too, which we promised and are now up and running successfully.”
In the next financial year, council is planning to invest more than $200 million to enhance the LGA even further.
It all bodes well for a bright future.
“There is a lot of work going on and none is more important than roads,” Cr Penfold said.
“But, the Farley underpass is underway with pedestrian access as well.
“Projects are taking place in Thorton, with much more needed to happen there.
“Then you have the core parks like Harold Gregson Reserve, which boasts a playspace, skate park, basketball court, BBQ area and amenities.
“Council’s also supported the motion to triple the size of the playground in Maitland Park to include additional parking and a splash pad.
“As the city grows, we need to make sure we’re keeping up, while improving the road and traffic issues that exist.
“So, I believe I’m the man for the job.
“I’m heartened by the support that I’ve received from the community.
“I think people are genuinely appreciative of that next generation of leadership.
“I’m actually the first Gen X mayor Maitland’s had, so residents have been enthusiastic for that renewal.
“Maybe, I am a bit more relatable to them as well.
“That’s why additional time is needed to achieve all the goals we’ve [council] set ourselves.
“Two-and-a-half years isn’t very long.”
Cr Penfold said it was vitally important Maitland stayed on top of things, given it’s one of the fastest-growing LGAs in the state.
“Everyone should be proud that we’re recognised in that way,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Unfortunately, a lot of stuff can’t be done without the assistance of the NSW and Australian governments.
“A good portion of this job is effective lobbying with state and federal departments, as well as local MPs, to work with them on getting the funds we require.
People can see the changes taking place in front of their eyes… there’s a lot of action at sportsgrounds, playgrounds, public spaces etc.
Philip Penfold
“Any growing city is going to have growing pain… and we need to keep on top of it.
“I think we are.
“However, it’s a juggling act because Maitland’s growing so rapidly.
“But, no matter what, we’re focused on doing it.
“To give you an example, we bought 25 acres at Lochinvar for sport recreation use moving forward.
“We need to get that happening and developed out there.
“Again, not so much for the Lochinvar community but for the broader city community.
“We had to make that purchase, as it’s priced well, with the future in mind.
“If we don’t move ahead now, and start progressing those developments, we’ll miss out.
“It’s the same with several facilities, and changerooms, around the city, which are sub-par.
“Many of our sportsgrounds don’t have the appropriate level of amenities to meet pathway networks.
“The proliferation of female team sport has certainly gotten the ball rolling on that… however, again, there’s still heaps more to be done.
“That’s not just additional changerooms but improving upon the ones that we’ve got there.
“Let’s be honest, many people wouldn’t utilise them… they turn in, turn out and walk the other way.
“It isn’t just a Maitland problem, it’s historic.”
A pathway that connects Walka and Morpeth is high on council’s agenda, too.
“We’ve got bits of that puzzle, that have started, but it needs our focus and completion,” Cr Penfold admitted.
“It will be an important network for locals and visitors, plus people who want to get out and enjoy their long recreational journeys, similar to other parts of the region like Newcastle.
“So, we need to continue that pathway in my opinion.”
Cr Penfold was quick to praise the contribution of departing councillor Peter Garnham, while welcoming Ken Jordan to the fold.
“He’ll be a big loss,” he said.
“Peter’s the longest continuous serving councillor Maitland has had, more than 25 years.
“I like to joke with him that he’s been around since last century.
“In fact, he’s served in four different decades.
“So, Peter’s been a valuable contributor… he’s experienced, measured and sensible in his approach and we’ll miss that.
“I know that he’s very widely-respected within the Chamber.
“But, we’ve found a terrific candidate to join me on the Independent team.
“Ken is the assistant principal at Hunter Trade College and was a councillor at Port Stephens for 17 years.
“He’s been living and working in Maitland for a while now.
“So, Ken is eager to come and participate and effectively fill councillor Garnham’s void in our independent team that we’re running.
“And, I’m very glad to have him on board.”
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