Calling All Cat Owners! Enter to Win a Voucher for a Cat Haven

Tweed Shire Council, in partnership with RSPCA NSW, is offering a unique opportunity for 60 cat-owning residents to win a voucher for purchasing a cat haven or DIY netting and hardware products. This initiative is part of the “Keeping Cats Safe at Home” campaign, aimed at ensuring the safety and happiness of feline companions while protecting local wildlife. Cat-owning residents can submit an expression of interest to win a ‘Catnets’ voucher valued at $500 as part of the Council’s Safe Haven for Cats project.

Frances Smith-Wright, Council’s Wildlife Protection Project Offcer, emphasized the campaign’s focus on improving cat health and welfare by transitioning them from roaming freely to staying safe at home.

“There are countless benefts to keeping your cat indoors, including living longer, healthier lives,” Mrs. Smith-Wright said. “Outdoor roaming cats face numerous risks, including exposure to diseases, vehicle accidents, and the potential for theft or getting lost. Creating a safe and enriching environment for cats not only protects them from potential hazards but also allows them to explore, play, and thrive.”

Last year, the thoughtful and personalized cat havens created by residents were a highlight, and the Council hopes to see even more innovative and safe spaces for cats this year. Keeping cats safe at home also helps preserve local wildlife and aligns with the Council’s commitment to protecting the Tweed’s environment for future generations.

Cat owners in need of support to create a cat haven can submit an expression of interest to be awarded a $500 voucher from Catnets. Applications must be submitted before Saturday, 31 August 2024.

This NSW-wide project is funded by a $2.5 million grant from the NSW Environmental Trust. For more information about Keeping Cats Safe at Home, visit tweed.nsw. gov.au/cats.

Call for Nominations: 2025 Tweed Shire Australia Day Awards

The Tweed Shire Council invites the community to recognize the exceptional contributions of local individuals and groups by nominating them for next year’s Tweed Shire Australia Day Awards. These annual awards celebrate the efforts of community members who give back, create positive change, and make Tweed a great place to live and love.

Mayor Chris Cherry highlighted the signifcance of these awards in acknowledging the dedication of community members.

“Our community is brimming with people who generously give their time and talents to enhance the quality of life in Tweed,” Cr Cherry said. “The Australia Day Awards are our chance to publicly celebrate their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they have.”

The Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony will be held on Friday, 24 January 2025, providing local governments with the fexibility to schedule their events independently of the traditional Australia Day date of 26 January.

Award Categories:

• Arts and Culture Award

• Citizen of the Year

• Community Event of the Year

• Senior Ambassador

• Sporting