As Mayor of Brighton, I’m proud to announce that Brighton Council is once again showing its commitment to building a welcoming and inclusive community by joining The Big Tassie Walk – a statewide initiative led by the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania (MRC Tas).

This fantastic campaign encourages Tasmanians to walk and fundraise throughout October in support of programs that empower migrants and refugees across the state. But this initiative is about more than just walking – it’s about connecting with each other, celebrating diversity, and promoting the health and wellbeing of our whole community. Brighton Council has put forward its own team, and I encourage staff, elected members and community members to join the challenge – whether you walk 45km or 335km, every step makes a difference. It’s a great opportunity to boost your physical and mental health, spend quality time with others, and explore our beautiful municipality.

This initiative also ties in perfectly with another campaign close to our hearts – We Stand Together Against Racism (WeSTAR).

As part of Tasmania’s six Greater Hobart councils – alongside Hobart, Clarence, Glenorchy, Kingborough and Sorell – Brighton has been proud to take a united stance against racism. During Welcoming Week (12–21 September), we launched the next phase of the WeSTAR campaign, which has been creating real momentum since its launch in March. So far, WeSTAR has celebrated 12 incredible community champions across Greater Hobart through posters, social media, and public events. And now, the message is rolling out even further – four Metro buses are hitting the streets with the faces and voices of our campaign ambassadors proudly displayed.

These bold and visible messages are designed to help every member of our community feel seen, heard, and safe – and to empower others to call out racism when they see it.

Both The Big Tassie Walk and the WeSTAR campaign are reminders that we all have a role to play in shaping a community where everyone belongs. As part of Welcoming Week, I encourage everyone to reflect on how we can continue to build stronger connections and affirm the value of diversity in our everyday lives.

Now more than ever, we must walk together – and stand to­gether – for a Tasmania where kindness, unity, and respect are at the heart of who we are.

Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray