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A NE W S LETTE R FO R S T AFF O F THE CITY OF MITCH AM.
31 May 2013
Volume 2
Issue 4
Message from Matt
Inside this issue: Message from Matt
1
From the Editor’s Desk
2
Managing our Street Trees
2
Introducing Sharon Somerville
3
SA’s History Festival
5
The Foyer Gallery
5
HR News
6
Engineering & Horticulture News
7 8
Mitchley’s Mutterings
Announcing … Mitcham Cat of the Month!
Hi everyone, First things first. Centrals have won three in a row and are off the bottom of the table! The two Enterprise Bargaining Agreements now in negotiation I hope will be finalised by 1st July and I am committed to maintaining conditions, buying power and market position. The negotiations are always challenging, more so when we have an operating deficit. We are one organisation and need to keep working together towards an effective solution for both staff and residents. If we work together, the Agreements will be a success, but if we become adversarial, then we and the residents will be the poorer. Elected Members (representing the community) are contributing to addressing the deficit with a proposed rate rise of either 5% or 5.25%. Management is looking for feedback on potential benefits that could be incorporated and offset by other savings or do not incur a cash cost to the bottom line. For example, in terms of my remuneration, in the course of my recently completed performance review I have negotiated with Elected Members three additional leave days, which will have no impact on the financial position of Council. I look forward to further feedback and continuing the negotiations in good faith. As mentioned above, my performance review has been finalised by Council. I am pleased to advise the Elected Members unanimously moved that I “have performed very well and met the objectives …”. This is a result of which everyone should be proud. My performance is a reflection of the performance and commitment of all of you. The Annual Business Plan is now out for community consultation with two potential rating options of 5.0% and 5.25%. Council is very committed to eliminating the deficit by 2014/15. This can only be achieved through a partnership between staff and Elected Members.
Following the Mitcham Dog of the Month Competition, which attracted a record number of entries (all of which deserved to win of course, but sadly only three could), for all you cat lovers, here’s your chance to enter your feline friend. Mitcham Cat of the Month will be selected again by popular vote, so get your photos in to Anne Green as soon as possible. Prizes will be: 1st—Large cat gift basket 2nd—Medium cat gift basket 3rd—Small cat gift basket Plus a double movie pass for each winner’s owner.
Eliminating the deficit however has to be offset against the necessary ongoing development of the City, and the Plan contains significant additional funding for Mountain Bike Trails, an automated borrowing system for the Libraries (RFID) and stormwater management, as well as for ongoing road renewal ($4.8m) and footpaths ($2.5m). I would like to make particular mention of the Environmental Health Team. As a result of having fallen behind in some of their key benchmarks, they have recently put in place some new work practices and the turnaround in results has been outstanding. Well done to Jack and the team! Well done also to Lyn, Tracy and everyone involved in the Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea. The Civic Centre raised $298.15, the Depot $133.60 and the Libraries $156.90. IT’S TIME! ASKING FEDERAL & STATE GOVERNMENTS TO THINK LOCALLY As you would have read in the last newsletter, at its April meeting Council decided on a list of priority projects to take to Federal & State Government seeking funding in the lead-up to the two forthcoming elections. These have been agreed as follows: 1. Re-alignment of Daws/Springbank & Goodwood Road intersection—what’s required is land acquisition and creation of one intersection instead of two. 2. Implementation of the Brown Hill & Keswick Creek Stormwater Master Plan—what’s required is financial commitment from Federal & State Govt to implement the plan 3. Greater utilisation & development of the Women’s Memorial Playing Field—what’s required is development of a plan to upgrade the facility and ensure greater use 4. Redevelopment of the Blackwood Library potentially as a State/Regional Centre of Excellence for Bushfire Management—what’s required is funding to redevelop the Blackwood Library with possible incorporation of a Bushfire Management Centre of Excellence 5. Redevelopment of the Mitcham Library as part of the implementation of the Hawthorn & Brown Hill Creek Master Plan—what’s required is redevelopment of the Library to take advantage of its natural setting as part of the implementation of the Hawthorn Reserves & Brown Hill Creek Master Plan 6. Masterplanning of the Blackwood District Centre Zone—what’s required is development of a plan to create a more effective Town Centre, including the review of previous work. Meetings of relevant Council staff and Elected Members with the appropriate candidates and potential Ministers will be arranged over the coming months.
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MANAGING OUR STREET TREES
Council has recently completed an audit of all street trees (trees planted by Council as part of urban streetscapes). This has been a complex and time consuming project which has been carried out over a number of years. While it is estimated there are around 29,000 trees in the plains suburbs and 22,000 in the hills, the exact number constantly varies as dead or dangerous trees are removed and new trees planted. These figures exclude trees on Council reserves and other Council owned properties. Such a significant natural asset requires a great deal of care and maintenance and this is where Council’s Street Tree Maintenance Team comes in. I spoke recently with two members of the team, Rob Misselbrook and Tony Borg (pictured left) to find out exactly what’s involved in this very demanding work. Rob and Tony agreed it was important to be multi-skilled and highly trained, as team members are expected to work on all aspects of tree maintenance, from removal of limbs to removal of entire trees. They undertake regular training to keep their skills updated, as well as constantly learning on-site, as no two situations are identical.
• • • • •
Their role is an important proactive measure to prevent or minimise the risk of damage and disease and also to ensure trees attain their maximum life span. Nevertheless, much of their work is unavoidably reactive as well, responding to calls for assistance and rectifying damage caused by storms or other extreme weather events.
Trees are a conspicuous and highly valued component of urban infrastructure, especially in Mitcham, and there is significant community sensitivity around the issue of tree maintenance, removal and replacement. The benefits of tree dense urban streetscapes are widely acknowledged and highly valued both by our local community and by Council. As a result, there is a consistently high demand from the community for tree maintenance services.
It’s probably not something that’s widely appreciated, but the Street Tree Maintenance crew are literally the first port of call in a storm. Following storms or even just high winds, they are inundated with work, often being called out in the middle of the night to remove trees fallen across roads or driveways. Such work can often be highly dangerous and the team is called on to not only act decisively but make quick decisions, all this while being constantly on guard against potential risks to themselves and the community. Because their work is high risk, and often undertaken at great heights, good quality, state of the art and well maintained tools and equipment are critical factors. Both Tony and Rob said how appreciative they are that Council fully recognises its responsibilities in this regard and is unstinting in its provision of the very best tools, machinery and safety equipment. Council policy covering tree management is heavily dependent on risk assessment, using the skills of qualified arborists as well as relying on staff to undertake regular assessments in the field. Tony and Rob are currently undertaking arboricultural training to qualify them to undertake more complex assessments. Although tree removal is only ever undertaken as a last resort, Tony and Rob explained there are many reasons why trees might need to be removed, such as: • • • •
Trees reaching the natural end of their life Disease or parasite infestation Root damage Drought or other adverse climatic conditions
CASUAL DAYS DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Friday 28 June — to raise funds for the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal Friday 26 July —to raise funds for the Lavender Lads & Ladies Volunteer Service
NEWSLETTER SURVEY Matt has recently invited you to take part in a staff survey of the newsletter, so I hope you’ve all taken advantage of the opportunity to put forward your thoughts and ideas. If you haven’t yet, please take the time to fill it in. Your response is important.
Storm damage Encroaching development Obstruction to traffic and pedestrian visibility Soil deterioration Vandalism
Tony and Rob are very conscious of the fact that their job is a delicate balancing act between managing risks to the community and preserving the total tree cover in our streets. In this regard they see their role as largely about educating the community, as well as providing a service. There are eight members in the team in total and they work very closely together, teamwork in their case being not just important but vital to the successful carrying out of their work. Tony and Rob have both worked at Mitcham for ten years. Rob had his own tree business prior to working for Council and so was well qualified to take on the job at Mitcham. Tony previously worked in the plumbing and gas fitting industry, a different scene altogether from trees, but one which equipped him with plenty of skills that, after an initial learning period, transposed well to the work he’s doing now. They both see Mitcham as a good environment to work. They get along well with their co-workers and value the support of Council in providing the best equipment, training, protection and safety mechanisms. The Street Tree Maintenance Team isn’t one that seeks or attracts a lot of attention, except perhaps in an emergency, but they could rightfully be considered Council’s unsung heroes, effectively dealing with a range of high risk activities in what is a very high profile component of Council’s services. So next time you’re tucked up in bed on a stormy night and hear trees thrashing around outside, think of the hard working tree maintenance guys who might be out there, dealing with the damage.
BIKE RIDERS TAKE NOTE Bike riding is a popular activity at Mitcham, both for commuting and for fun. Wearing helmets is of course compulsory but can be a pain, especially if you end up looking like the bloke above. It could be much more of a pain though if you don’t. The results of a recently published report on the protective effects of helmets in cyclists and motorcyclists proves indisputably that if a helmet is not worn at the time of an accident, the risks of major head trauma are more than five times greater. Read more at http://theconversation.com/bike-
helmets-an-emergency-doctors-perspective-13935
From the Editor’s Desk Another month, another newsletter packed with news. When I started this news rustling role I worried I might be scratching around for content, but each month there seems to be more and more. This month space is at such a premium I’ve moved myself to Page 2. That’s largely thanks to all of you for getting behind “Fifty Shades” so enthusiastically and coming up with lots of interesting news, gossip, photos and bits and pieces. So thank you, it’s made my job much easier (if busier) and is very much appreciated. Do keep it up and also remember to let me know of any achievements, wins, special recognitions of individual staff or teams, as I’m keen to feature more of these.
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Better known these days for her sunny smiles, here she’s looking a bit camera shy. Her beginner curls here also don’t really do justice to their later development. She’s one of Councill’s quiet achievers, busily beavering away behind the scenes, rather than out in the field, but nevertheless fulfilling a very important role.
Send your guesses to Anne Green. First person to correctly guess who it is wins a double Wallis movie pass.
EXTREME GREEN HOW WILL WE MANAGE & ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE?
Resilient South is an initiative of the cities of Holdfast Bay, Marion, Mitcham and Onkaparinga. It is a project to help the Southern Region community make sure we can tackle the challenges of climate change effectively. Changes in climate, such as higher temperatures, declining rainfall and rising sea levels demand active management of risks. The Resilient South Project will address these changes to ensure the region can continue to thrive and prosper.
A Cultured Performer Introducing Sharon Somerville Sharon started at Mitcham on 22nd April in the role of Business Partner in the People, Performance & Culture Team. She brings a wide range of skills and experience to the position, having previously worked as People & Culture Manager at Guide Dogs SA/NT and prior to that in various roles in the areas of health, community and aviation, in both the public and private sectors. What appealed to her about the role at Mitcham was the opportunity to partner with the Managers in identifying and understanding their needs and to work proactively with them and their staff towards achieving their business and career goals. She wants to see Mitcham reap the greatest possible reward from its biggest asset, its people, and in this regard she’s very supportive of the move towards a more proactive and forward focused people management function, and is keen to play her part in that. Sharon’s passion, she says, is working with people to help them grow, develop and make the most of their talents and skills. This, she sees as important in order to enhance their own individual sense of achievement. Ultimately of course it also benefits the organization as a whole. In particular, she is committed to ensuring that people are supported and encouraged to aim high and also justly rewarded for their achievements. The prospects for expanding and sustaining our already strong base of committed and skilled people are excellent, Sharon believes, and she’s looking forward to implementing a range of initiatives to further enhance Mitcham’s people power into the future.
Mitcham’s team will be engaged at various stages during the project. A preliminary step has been a receptivity survey. Keep an eye out for the official launch of the project, as well as the first release of the Resilient South newsletter and website. Council staff and the community will be invited to attend workshops and provide input into the future adaptation of our southern area to the challenges of climate change. Stay tuned to see how you can participate.
A non-work related passion is supporting Port Adelaide and in case you’re in any doubt, check out her fingernails (painted in the Port colours). She’s a mad rock band enthusiast as well, favourites being Alice Cooper and Hunters & Collectors. Travelling is another pursuit she enjoys and she has a trip to Fiji coming up later this year. When I asked if she had any role models, heroes, idols or other such shining lights that guided her, she said she’s a big fan of Dr Phil. She’s impressed by his people management theories and practices and learnt a lot from his recent book “Life Code”. Welcome to Mitcham Sharon. Your experience, enthusiasm and insight are bound to add some extra brilliance to our already polished People Performance and Culture Team.
For further information, please contact David Deer or Natalie Iglio.
FIRE RISK … IT’S NEVER FAR AWAY
APPOINTMENTS etc. … Congratulations to to: Dane Abbott
who has been appointed as Acting Senior Environmental Health Officer
Lisa Flynn
who has been appointed as a Building Officer
Richard Brown
who has been appointed as a Building Officer
Sean Teelow
who has been appointedc a temporary Building
Officer
Leanne Hodge
who has been appointed as IT Partner, GIS
Systems
Kerry Molyneux
who has been appointed as Waste Water
Project Officer (temporary)
Welcome Back to: John Zybek
The bushfire that broke out at Cherryville on 11 May was never supposed to have happened. The fire danger period ended on 30 April and the Council involved didn’t require a permit or notification of burn-off past that date. You could say then it was a legal fire that started the conflagration that ravaged a community and terrified residents. Fires don’t however have calendars and this incident was a timely reminder that it doesn’t matter what the time of year, residents in fire prone areas must be constantly vigilant, especially in these times of freak climate occurrences. Winter is the time to take stock, clean up, get rid of the dead wood literally and make properties as safe as possible for the summer.
who has returned fit and well from a long period of hospitalization and recuperation. Good to have you back, John.
In a new initiative Council recently resolved to approach the State Government on a proposal to establish legislation requiring owners of properties in bushfire risk areas to provide a Bushfire Rating of their property when putting their home up for sale. Such a legislative move would increase the community’s awareness of bushfire risks and alert future residents of properties in bushfire risk areas to their obligations and responsibilities.
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Getting Ready for ICAC
What’s all the fuss about? On 9th May Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that a referendum will be held on 14th September concurrently with the Federal election seeking to have Local Government formally recognised in the Australian Constitution. The purpose of this is to consolidate funding Councils receive from the Australian Government. This includes the Roads to Recovery program which delivers $350 million a year for local roads around Australia. It also supports community infrastructure projects such as libraries, indoor and outdoor sporting facilities, pools, walking trails, roads and bridges. As an indication of the substantial nature of this support, below are the amounts Mitcham has received under the Roads to Recovery Program funding since 2009: Roads to Recovery Life of Program Allocation 2009/10 to 2013/14
Roads to Recovery Allocation for 2012/13
$2,750,076
$550,015
Two landmark High Court decisions in regard to funding from the Commonwealth have meant that the continuation of this funding for Local Government is potentially in jeopardy unless Constitutional change can be effected. Property rates are insufficient to fund the multitude of services and facilities Councils are now expected to deliver. Just over $10 million in Federal funds has been allocated to a campaign to educate the public on the purposes and implications of the Referendum in the lead-up to the election. Despite some State Governments objecting to the Referendum on the grounds that such a move would undermine their jurisdiction over Local Government, this is not the case, as the change proposed would do nothing to change the current status. To be successful, the Referendum requires a double majority, which means it needs the support of a majority of all electors in all States and Territories and it also requires majority support in a majority of the States.
Mitcham’s team of Justin Sexton, Chris Tozer, Scott Shaw and Peter Bice rode wildly but well in the recent Bike SA 12 Hour Endurance Mountain Bike Challenge (and lived to tell the tale). The lap was a 10k challenging cross country loop and the team completed 18 laps over the 12 hours and averaged 40 minutes per lap, so they did very well. Chris “the Dozer” Tozer was the fastest with a lap time of 37.31 minutes. The guys would like to thank the People Performance & Culture Team for supporting them in the event. Here are a few photos … enough to make you grab your bike and head for the hills (not!)
An article in the February newsletter noted the introduction of the ICAC Act (Independent Commission Against Corruption) in December 2012. Justice Bruce Lander has been appointed the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption and will take up this position in September 2013. Under the Act community members will be able to lodge complaints against public officers in both State and Local Government in regard to alleged incidents of maladministration, misconduct or corruption. Training sessions for all staff are being organised in July to provide information on the potential implications of the legislation and explain how Council can best prepare for it. Times and dates for training will be advised soon. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Meredith Nunan.
PLANNING FOR TOMORROW’S COMMUNITY TODAY Since the new Strategic Management Plan was agreed by Council in March, a draft Business Plan and Long Term Financial Plan have been compiled with input from staff across Council and much hard work from Virginia Fisher and Sarah Gilmour. All residents and ratepayers of Mitcham have now been invited to provide comment and feedback on these plans (details on Council’s website). The Business Plan includes a comprehensive budget for 2013/2014 and outlines the activities proposed over the next 12 months. The Draft Plan is based on a 5.25% rate increase and a projected budget deficit which Council is committed to eliminating by 2014/15. Copies of the Plan are available in hard copy or online from Council’s website. Submissions are invited online, in writing or by attending a Public Meeting, and will close at 5pm on Wednesday 26 June. For further information or if you have any questions, please contact Julie Lamond or Virginia Fisher.
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MITCHAM CELEBRATES ABOUT TIME: SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S HISTORY FESTIVAL Over the past month, the Heritage Research Centre and the Mitcham Cultural Village jointly ran 16 events to celebrate “About Time”. These included the launch of the new Blackwood historical walk brochure, bus tours, guided walks, exhibitions, open houses, talks and workshops. Thanks to the hard work and commitment of the staff involved, the history festival has been an outstanding success, with all events booked out and very positive feedback offered by participants. The volunteers at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre and the Institute all worked incredibly hard in preparing the events, leading tours, helping out and fielding the hundreds of phone calls we received. Well done and congratulations to the Heritage Research Centre and Mitcham Cultural Village staff and volunteers. A fantastic effort. Below are some photos.
Mistresses of Mitcham’s Mansions— tour of Carrick Hill and Torrens Park House
Launch of Blackwood Historical Walk Brochure which was followed by a bus tour
Mandy Brown, Chair, Tjitil Tjuta at Colebrook, raising the Aboriginal flag at Council on 24 May
Who Lies There—guided tour of Mitcham Cemetery. Mark Winders seen here giving visitors the benefit of his expert knowledge.
NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK 2013 Council celebrated National Reconciliation Week on Friday 24 May, with a special Flag Raising event and a morning tea. At the Council Meeting held on Tuesday 28 May Ms Janette Milera presented the traditional ‘Welcome to Country’, following which all those present stood in silence for one minute in recognition of the elders who have gone before us.
This month the Foyer Gallery presents a special exhibition to mark Reconciliation Week 2013. Art work on display is by various indigenous artists and features amazing works on canvas and also in the display cases in the foyer, some stunning decorated jewellery boxes and bowls made by children. These are for sale at very modest prices and are just gorgeous. Check them out.
Mayor Picton with Kunyi June-Anne McInerney (artist) and her grandchildren
Also for sale are the books “Daisy Bates and the Watoala Kids” illustrated by Kunyi June-Anne McInerney and “Maralinga: the Anangu Story” also featuring beautiful illustrations. The exhibition will remain on display until 24 June, so do take the time to have a look at these unique and beautiful examples of a rich cultural heritage.
For further information or to make a purchase, contract Tracy Lawson.
Mayor Picton with Yvonne Caddy (ex-Mayor) and Kunyi June-Anne McInerney (artist)
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EMPLOYEE MILESTONES
A function was held at the Civic Centre on Friday 10th May to present employee long service awards. The following staff members celebrated anniversaries and received awards. Dawn Mitchell Jane Maschotta Evan Lymn Kate Royle
25 years 25 years 10 years 7 years
Dane Abbott Ian Randell Mel Jensen
5 years 5 years 5 years
Congratulations to all, especially to Dawn and Jane, our new quarter century-ers! Below are photos taken at the recognition event.
Dawn Mitchell (25 years) with George Forbes and Mayor Picton
Kate Royle (7 years) with Peter Bice and Mayor Picton
Jane Maschotta (25 years) with George Forbes and Mayor Picton
Evan Lymn (10 years) with Peter Bice and Mayor Picton
Dane Abbott (5 years) with Stephen Saffin and Mayor Picton
Ian Randell (5 years) with Brett Miller and Mayor Picton
MIMS—MISSION COMPLETED! At the outset, it seemed like Mission Impossible but amazingly the MIMS (TRIM) Implementation Project is now completed! Thanks to the awe-inspiring dedication of Nigel Burton (EDRMS Project Manager) what was an overwhelming task of mammoth complexity was wrestled into submission and Council has now moved confidently into the 21st century with a smoothly running electronic records keeping system. Mel Jensen (5 years) with Kristen Manson and Mayor Picton
A MILD MANNERED TREE Grey Box is not a very inspiring name for a tree you might think. However these trees (Eucalyptus Microcarpa) are highly valued representatives of our original native flora and are declining in numbers. Tomorrow (June 1) is Grey Box Day and the Grey Box Community is holding an event at Belair National Park to help regenerate the species. They hope to sell 6000 native plants to residents to revegetate gardens in Mitcham. Here is a great chance to help restore the biodiversity of our environment and rejuvenate your garden at the same time.
Thanks must also go to Kate Royle who acted as Senior Records Officer while Nigel was otherwise engaged and indeed the whole Records Team who have dealt calmly, efficiently and patiently with the challenge of getting everyone TRIM-wise. Nigel and Kate have now returned to their original roles. As advised by Peter Bice, a new role of Information Management Partner has been created. The person appointed to this position will work collaboratively across Council and will be responsible for the future development of information management policies, record keeping and reporting and the EDRMS system. Congratulations to Nigel and Kate (pictured above) and all involved with the MIMS Implementation Project—a job well done.
REMEMBER … “THE M-FACTOR—HIDDEN TALENTS EXPOSED” Don’t forget to get your exhibits ready for the staff Art Exhibition which Tracy Lawson is busily organising as you read. This is a great opportunity to get your long laboured over masterpieces before the public gaze.
To be an exhibitor, you need to complete an “Expression of Interest” (EOI) Form which you can access via TRIM 13.46324 (MFactor—Staff Expressions of Interest Form 2013).
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ENGINEERING & HORTICULTURE TEAM … NEWS AND INFORMATION Civil Works & Services Graffiti Removal Mitcham Council’s graffiti response team responds to incidences of graffiti vandalism involving any of Council’s infrastructure, playgrounds, buildings, skate parks, public toilets, sporting facilities, bus shelters etc. Council also engages a contractor to undertake the removal of graffiti in inaccessible places. Council will remove graffiti from private property that shares a boundary with Council property, e.g. a wall or fence, so long as the work can be undertaken without entering private property. Council will not remove graffiti from property belonging to utilities companies. Such graffiti should be brought to the attention of the company concerned for their action, as below: • • • • •
SA Power Networks—www.sapowernetworks.com.au Telstra—www.telstra.com.au SA Water—www.sawater.com.au Australia Post—www.auspost.com.au Adelaide Metro—www.adelaidemetro.com.au
Paving Construction of new footpaths is managed under Council’s Capital Works Program, however the Civil Works team is responsible for maintaining the existing footpath network throughout the city. Works are undertaken to repair paved footpaths where pavers have sunk or lifted due to tree roots or natural soil movements. Maintenance of private driveways on Council land is the responsibility of the property owner under Section 221 of the Local Government Act, with the exception of the section of footpath involved. If the crossover problem extends beyond this section, Council can provide a quote to undertake works to remedy the fault, once an application has been submitted and approved.
Project Delivery Lynton Waste Transfer Upgrade Project Council’s Lynton Green Organics Waste Transfer Station is a resource much in demand by residents wanting to dispose of green organic waste material that exceeds the capacity of their green bins. The facility not only diverts waste from landfill but assists residents in safeguarding their property from fire risk during the fire season. Work is progressing on the development of a project to upgrade the Green Waste Drop-Off and Recycling Transfer Station at Lynton Depot. Funding is in place and a public consultation was undertaken in February. Consultants have been engaged to prepare a concept design brief and documentation for a Development Application. The purpose of the project is to enhance the configuration, improve safety and meet higher standards of design and operation to ensure the facility is a best practice waste drop-off facility for the public. The updated design will address a number of issues, including traffic conflicts, safety problems caused by an erratic process of vehicle movement through the site, resulting in dropping off of multiple piles of material, obstructed access for the loader and resultant safety concerns. The proposed improvements will result in a much more streamlined process, better functionality and a generally safer operation. Environmental improvements will also be realised through sealing all trafficked areas, controlling stormwater runoff and minimising dust. The upgrade will also compensate for the planned closure of Area G, an excavated site adjacent to the green waste drop-off area, which will soon reach its planned maximum level. Staff are currently seeking quotes from consultants for the detailed project construction design which will form the basis of a tender for construction, subject to Development approval. It is expected that construction will take 10 weeks and will be able to commence at the beginning of February 2014.
AT CALL HARD WASTE A WIN WIN FOR EVERYONE In April Council approved the continuation of the ‘At Call’ domestic hard waste collection service for a period of a further seven years. The service is very popular with residents, saves Council an estimated $85,000 per year, and also minimises waste going to landfill.
Start thinking like a Swapper! Healthy eating and getting active can help you lose centimetres and prevent or delay the onset of chronic diseases. It’s not hard! Here are some simple everyday changes you can make to start enjoying a healthier lifestyle, without having to give up all the things you love. How? Don’t stop it. Just swap it! Swap inside for outside, a big meal for a small meal … it’s easy. And those small changes can make all the difference. And what’s more, you can make them as you go about your normal life—at work, at home, or even while out shopping. Here’s some great Swap ideas!
• Don’t overcrowd your plate • Eat slowly to give your stomach time to signal it’s full • Think twice before going back for seconds • Share a dessert rather than have your own
• Swap fried food for fresh • Swap fizzy drink for water • Swap take-away for home-made • Eat less ‘sometimes’ food
• Walk and deliver a message rather than email • Take the bike for short trips instead of the car • Park the car further away and enjoy a short walk • Get off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way
• Don’t just watch sport— get out and get active • Meet friends for a walk instead of coffee and cake • Get outdoors with the family—go to the park or for a bike ride • Swap a family movie for bowling
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MITCHAM’S RACY DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES HITS THE TRACK AGAIN Top marks for initiative to Mitcham Library Service Community Networks & Programs team. Not to be defeated by logistical problems they used technology to get their performance of Nick Bland's "The Wrong Book" for National Simultaneous Storytime 2013 out to schools. Check out the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvegmU7euzE
Council staff excelled yet again at the Cancer Council Morning Teas held on Wednesday 28 May. Not only did the cooks bake up a storm but the eaters did justice to the spread at the Council offices, the Depot and the Libraries and raised much needed funds for the Cancer Council at the same time.
Polishing off the left-overs. A tough job but someone has to do it.
Wade triumphed again in his Toyota Sprinter at the SA State Motor Racing Championships Round 2 at Mallala on Saturday 18 May, winning an amazing three out of three races. He is now leader of the pack in the Under 2L State Championships. He was also awarded the Michael Rooke Memorial Trophy for winning Race 2. Michael Rooke was racing in front of Wade in this same race last year, when his car was involved in an accident and he was tragically killed. What a gutsy effort for Wade to get back in the car after witnessing that horrific episode. Nita, our trusty racing reporter, will keep us posted on Wade’s progress as the championship continues.
How many more 12 hour endurance rides will Pete have to do to work these off?
See Matt’s Message for the amounts raised.
Depot staff tucking in. Some even sacrificed their diets for a good cause.
TALES FROM THE LIBRARY … Better Late than Never A library member recently dropped in to the library saying he’d been having a bit of a clean-up and had found a couple of overdue items. Overdue is an understatement as these were two Black Belt Magazines borrowed in 1982! Some of our longer serving staff members such as Janine Skujnieks, Pam Heinrich, Mary Anne Macintosh, Jane Maschotta and Sally Lovelock, would fondly remember the pains they took to cover and stencil letter the titles on these. Not sure whether the patron will be asked to fork out the outstanding fine of $453 but the staff were entertained by the blast from the past pictures, such as the Chuck Norris Designer Jeans for the Martial Artist and the Hurley Stretch Back machine.
SOCIAL CLUB NEWS FUNDRAISING SUCCESS The Social Club’s unofficial “canteen” has been so successful in selling munchies to revive your work jaded tastebuds, each month they will donate $10 of their profits to that month’s selected casual day charity. They’d like to thank everyone who has dug deep for this great new initiative … keep it up!
MITC HAM DOG PRIZE OF THE M ONTH WINN ERS
DON’T FORGET TONIGHT TONIGHT::
Happy Hour at the Avoca Hotel, 893 South Road 5.15pm Drinks & Finger Food Members Free, Non Non--Members & Members’ Partners to pay for own drinks. This will be a “Free Come ‘n Try” for non non--Member Depot Staff so get along and give it a go!
Here are the prize winners of the Mitcham Dog of the Month Competition receiving their doggie gift baskets and movie tickets. From left to right Annie Raudam (Lenny), Jess Bruce-Mullins (Bruce & Nahla), Brad Johns (Sally). Congratulations all and to the winning dogs!