On Tuesday, 12 December 2023, people gathered in Strathmerton for the grand opening of the Mick Cleary Walking Track and the commemoration of the Planting Trees for The Queen's Jubilee project.

Strathmerton Community Steering Committee chairperson Kerry Murray welcomed Moira Shire Administrators John Tanner AM, Dr Graeme Emondson PSM and Suzanna Sheed, along with Sam Birrell, Federal Member for Nicholls. Also present were Moira Shire staff who were instrumental in helping to complete both projects. Members of the Cleary family - including Mick's wife Yvonne and daughter Tessa - were also out in force to celebrate the track's opening.

The ribbon was cut by Mr Tanner and Mr Birrell. Mr Tanner then spoke a few words, expressing the Council's pride in contributing to such a great community project. Mr Birrell spoke on the successful completion of the federally funded tree project which, along with the walking track, will be great assets to the community.

Tessa Cleary spoke briefly on behalf of the Cleary family. The Mick Cleary Walking Track was named in memory of her father, a tireless community volunteer who was loved and respected by all. Mick sadly lost his life in October 2021 while on a night-time walk, at the same time our committee was preparing the funding proposal for this track. It is our hope that the track will provide a safe place for community members to meet and walk at any time of day and at any time of year - and, of course, to reminisce about a local legend.

Proceedings concluded with a ceremonial walk around the 1.5km track, led by the Cleary family. The Strathmerton Community Steering Committee gratefully acknowledges funding from the Moira Shire for the walking track and funding for the tree planting through the Federal government's Planting Trees for The Queen's Jubilee initiative.