Inverleigh Progress Association Annual Report 2023

Having successfully completed a comprehensive community survey last year, it was time to move onto the next stage of formulating the Inverleigh Community Plan. This was done by inviting representatives from all community groups to attend a workshop organised by the IPA. This workshop was both well organised and well attended, enabling open conversations between the various community groups. Using the survey results we were able to build upon what we had.

The Community representatives contributed to formulating a clear Vision Statement that reflects the strong Community feel for our township and surrounding environment.

The IPA then moved on to prioritising projects that could be achieved over the next few years. These priorities were then placed into a “draft” Community Plan. This draft plan was circulated throughout the community via all means available, including face to face chats and electronic Media. Comments welcomed, before a final comprehensive document was created.

This detailed document was then summarised into a “Plan on a Page” which was then presented to council by Luanne Thornton and Peter Trevaskis on behalf of the IPA. The presentation and plan received a very positive response. At this stage I would like to thank all those that contributed in some way, for their time and effort. In particular, thanks toDeb Morrison for the huge amount of time and effort she has dedicated to this project.

Since the completion of the document, seed funding has been applied for and received for the priority projects that were listed. Having worked through the Community Plan, the IPA realised that it didn’t have a Logo that could be used on such documents.

A competition was organized to design a suitable logo that reflected our community. Robyn Tennant was awarded a $100 gift voucher for her winning entry. The IPA now has an official Logo that can be used into the future.

Luanne Thornton, on behalf of the IPA presented Ross Peel with a life Membership in recognition of the work on behalf of the community over many years. This was presented at a dinner held at the Inverleigh hotel late last year. We were happy to see both Coral and Ross at the dinner.

Over the past twelve months the IPA has indevoured to improve communications between the Golden Plains council and the residents of Inverleigh. This is a work in progress with regular meetings planned every three months which will enable an exchange of information beneficial to both the council and the Inverleigh Community.

Sincere thanks to Peter Trevaskis for the outstanding job he continues to do as the Editor of the Leigh News.

To Damian Baker for his tireless volunteer work maintaining the Open Space area north of the Leigh River, so that the rest of the Inverleigh Community can continue to enjoy natural environment along the river paths.

To Tony Waayers for his continued support even though we have been unable to find a new treasurer to fill his shoes. Something that needs to be addressed ASAP.

To James Manche who has been our secretary for the past twelve months.

To Ewan Peel for keeping an eye on the maintenance of the river pump and to Murray McMillan for now being responsible for the Keys and for removing the pump when the river was threatening to flood.

Lastly, to the ongoing support of the members of the IPA.

Hilary Hamilton President, IPA