Corowa Shire Council is celebrating NSW Local Government Week 2012 from 13-19 August and is encouraging local residents to get involved in some of the initiatives planned.  

As part of the celebrations this year, the Corowa Library will be hosting children's author, Peter Klein who will be conducting a series of writing workshops with local schools on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 August at the Corowa Library.

The Library will also be launching the National Writing Competition and will be encouraging children to enter by sharing stories of their home town or a special place they have visited in Australia.

Mayor Fred Longmire is looking forward to attending children's story-time to read one of his favourite children's books.

Further information on the activities at the Corowa Library can be obatined by contacting the library on (02) 6033 8941.

Students from Howlong Public School will be joining in the celebrations when they are given the opportunity to attend the August Council Meeting and learn about the role of Local Government.  

Council is also inviting the community to visit the Corowa Shire Civic Centre where a display will promote the large number of services provided to the community.

This year's theme of ‘Local knowledge, Local services, Local communities' recognises the expertise and invaluable services provided by NSW councils to their communities day-in and day-out.

President of the Local Government Association of NSW, Cr Keith Rhoades AFSM said ‘Local Government's greatest strength is the fact that councils understand and work for their individual communities – our councillors are from the local area, our staff have extensive local knowledge and we tailor our services to suit local community needs.'

‘From council-owned and managed roads, Libraries, sports fields and cemeteries to food -safety checks, pet registration, tourism and town water and sewerage services – Local Government and its many functions are ingrained in people's lives, whether they realise it or not.'

Corowa Shire Council Mayor, Fred Longmire recognised the role of Councils and the importance of Local Government Week.

‘As a Council, we are proud of our unique local knowledge, diverse services and connection to the community. We are the closest level of government to the people, and we know our communities better than any other Government department. Local Government Week is our chance to promote and highlight just how valuable Councils are.' he said.