ANNUAL LORD MAYOR'S PRAYER BREAKFAST
Newcastle has a heritage of church and civic leaders coming together to pray for the welfare of the city.
In 1990 after the Newcastle earthquake (1989), the city leaders along with people from churches across the region gathered at the West Leagues Club to pray. In 2009 after a break in gathering a group of Newcastle pastors approached the then Lord Mayor Cr John Tate about again hosting an annual prayer breakfast. He agreed and together they initiated an annual event that has been hosted by Lord Mayor Cr John Tate 2009/2012, Lord Mayor Cr Jeff McCloy in 2013/2014 and presently Lord Mayor Cr Nuatali Nelmes.
The commitment of so many to gather together reflects the willing ability of civic, church, business and community leadership to journey together in a God honouring way!
BREAKFAST BENEFICIARIES
During this journey through the generosity of sponsors and those that have gathered many thousands of dollars have been given to charities that represent a small portion of the vast and impressive charitable work that is done throughout our region.
2023 LIVEfree Project
2022 Jenny's Place
2021 Hunter Homeless Connect
2020 Hello Hunter
2019 Mentor Support Network
2018 Zara’s House
2017 DALE Young Parents School
2016 Girl Friday
2015 Hunter Women’s Centre
2014 Grainery Care
2013 CityServe
2012 Christians Against Poverty
2011 World Vision
2010 Soul Cafe
2009 Food 4 Life (Baptist Care)
"Since 2009 over $151,000 has been raised and donated to local Newcastle charities."
LORD MAYOR'S STUDENT LEADERSHIP FORUM
The Student Leadership Forum was established in 2013 in conjunction with the breakfast. Students have the opportunity to assist in hosting the breakfast, this is followed by their own leadership forum. The purpose of the forum being to connect this generation of leaders with the next. It is a leadership development opportunity where the Lord Mayor and other forum panelists share their experiences and advice about leadership. Students get to ask questions and meet these leaders in person over morning tea.
