He said the consistent growth and evolution of this area had been truly incredible.
The Mayor moved to Guildford 15 years ago and set up home with his wife Josephine – who grew up in this area and has always had a strong connection to this place – and twin daughters Nicola and Isabella.
“As my adopted community of 21 years, I’ve found it to be welcoming and open and a great place to raise our family,” he said.
“Socially, I’ve seen the rich diversity and culture of our community expand and change as new migrants began to call this area home. Diversity is a key strength that has fuelled growth and economic prosperity. Many new migrants are hardworking business people who have created jobs and generously shared their cultures and traditions.
“Physically, I’ve seen the streets widen and become busier, infrastructure and sporting facilities expand, and houses become unit blocks or even roads. Notable buildings that many readers will know are the first two Auburn Town Halls and the 1960s Civic Centre at Auburn. Compare those to the Granville Town Hall which is being refurbished and the newly built Granville Centre. It shows that we can value our history while still providing modern facilities.”
He said a cornerstone of any community was a free and independent press.
“The press hold authorities to account, shares stories and information and is a critical record keeper,” he said.
“The Auburn Review has been a shining light on that front for 60 years and I congratulate them on achieving this important milestone in a time when newspapers are fading and ‘fake news’ needs to be called out.
“Their role is more critical today than it ever has been. Here’s to another 60 years.”
