Our Logan Magazine - July 2015

2015/2016 Annual Budget edition

Council plans for rainy day

Volume 40 July 2015

Focus on roads for growth

Investing in Logan’s sporting future BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES, BUSINESSES AND PRIDE

Mayor’s Budget Speech The annual budget process is a core function of Council, and one that my fellow Councillors and I address each year with a great sense of responsibility.

From the outset this year when we sat down to begin the budget process, we were clear that we wanted to deliver another CPI budget.

We agreed we had a responsibility to again ensure the City of Logan retains one of the lowest minimum general rates in South-East Queensland.

Today I announce a CPI rate increase for the City of Logan in 2015/2016 of 1.4 per cent. This means the majority of residential ratepayers will have an increase of $19 a year, or 37 cents a week, after discount, which includes our levies and waste charges.

I have served this community for 19 years and I am very proud of what successive Councils have achieved over this period. I am particularly proud of the work that this Council has undertaken.

This is the third budget in a row that we have delivered a CPI rate increase.

At a time when funding from higher levels of government for local councils is increasingly difficult to come by, Council has improved efficiencies and developed ways to deliver ongoing value for money.

Through a rigorous budget process, we have been able to achieve the 1.4 per cent CPI increase, while maintaining current service delivery and funding a range of important new services and initiatives.

This year’s $839.8 million budget is the largest in the City of Logan’s history.

It will inject additional funds into areas such as: roads and parks management and maintenance; the establishment of a natural disaster reserve; infrastructure advocacy; sport and recreation statutory maintenance; city beautification, environment and city image.

Importantly, we will continue to offer, with a CPI increase, full and part rates remissions to eligible pensioners throughout the city.

The decision to financially support the city’s pensioners will cost Council approximately $3.9 million and is another indication of Council’s commitment to minimise the financial impact on those in the community who can least afford it.

As Australia’s fifth largest local government area, the City of Logan is one of the fastest growing areas in the country.

During 2014/2015, Council saw an additional 2,248 new rateable properties.

This represents 2 per cent growth, which is up on the 1.4 per cent growth experienced the year prior. This level of growth is expected to increase based on the number of developments across the city.

Our unique mix of rural and urban communities poses both challenges and rewards. As a Council, we are focused on growing our rates base to help fund the billions of dollars required for roads, water, sewerage, drainage and social infrastructure in the years ahead.

As a Council, we can’t afford to sit back and expect our growth projections alone to be persuasive enough to secure the funding needed for essential infrastructure.

The cost to deliver major infrastructure projects does not however belong to Council alone. We owe it to our community to demonstrate leadership, by strongly advocating for these projects to be put high on the list of priorities of key decision makers ahead of the 2016/2017 State and Federal budgets and the next Federal Election. This we will do.

As the owner of more than 100 sport and recreation facilities across the city, Council is dedicated to providing community facilities that are safe and well maintained. In this budget, Council has made a significant investment to ensure we are delivering on a commitment to organisations to undertake statutory maintenance on those facilities.

For a pensioner eligible for a maximum rate remission, this decision equates to an annual rate remission of up to $321 a year, while those on a part-pension will receive an annual remission of $160.50.

The uncertainty around the availability of federal relief funding for communities hit by extreme weather events has moved Council to establish a natural disaster reserve in the 2015/16 Budget. We have set aside $4 million to protect our long-term financial outlook from costs associated with these events.

In addition, the 13,800 City of Logan properties receiving a Council rates remission will also receive up to an additional 10 per cent off the cost of their waste collection service.

Council will also invest $2.4 million for a city-wide beautification program that will see local streets revitalised through targeted landscaping works, line marking, median strip maintenance, tree

I know this will be welcome news to these residents.

Mayor Pam Parker

Phone: 3412 4226

pruning and street sweeping.

This beautification program will transform key arterial roads that connect our city and surrounding regions.

Logan continues to be seen as a leader in local government and during the past 12 months we have welcomed many delegations looking to learn ways they can improve their level of service.

There have also been national and international awards for our city in financial management, economic development, community services, sporting programs, health and sustainability, water infrastructure and many other areas.

We are always looking at ways to improve, and a key area of focus is assessing how we can best support local businesses.

Our Global Connections Strategy and the long-term commitment to international relationships is a prime example of how our economic development strategies are paying dividends.

In the first two years of this program, the strategy has significantly raised Logan’s profile. It has delivered increased exports for businesses in our city and has attracted in excess of $58 million of investment, with another $12 million of investment now in the final stages of confirmation. Commitments for another $160 million in future investment are also in place. This investment is vital for job creation for this and future generations.

Our city is attracting increasing numbers of visitors who are discovering the hidden gems of our city and flocking to exciting events like Eats and Beats, LEAF and Jazz and Shiraz.

Not only is this a CPI budget – it’s the right budget for these times. While still retaining existing service levels, this budget keeps rates at a minimum and will not adversely impact Council’s sound financial position going forward.

This Council has faced many budgetary challenges during my time as Mayor and the

Email: mayor@logan.qld.gov.au

@MayorPam

responsibility of leading this great City of Logan has been a challenging but rewarding one.

After 19 years in local government, I am proud that my last budget is one that not only serves our community, but it puts Council in a strong position to continue guiding the great City of Logan on the journey ahead.

It is a budget that will keep Logan on the

path to a secure and prosperous future.

In closing, I would like to take the opportunity to thank and acknowledge the enormous efforts of my Councillor colleagues, in particular the members of the Budget Steering Committee: Deputy Mayor Russell Lutton, Cr Luke Smith, Cr Trevina Schwarz and Cr Don Petersen, and all the committee chairs for their efforts throughout the 2015/2016 budget deliberation process.

I would also like to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of our senior management team in particular Chief Executive Officer Chris Rose, our Deputy CEO of Organisational Services John Oberhardt, Finance Manager Robert Strachan and other officers who have contributed to this year’s budget process.

Mayor Pam Parker

The Finance Chairman’s Speech Logan is a city with a bright and exciting future.

I am very proud to be here today, in my seventh consecutive year as the Chairman responsible for Council’s Finances to join with the Mayor in presenting the largest budget in Logan City’s history.

It is a budget, as the Mayor has said, which has been delivered with an increase equivalent to the March quarter CPI for Brisbane of 1.4 per cent for the majority of our residential ratepayers. This is amongst the lowest rate increases offered in the history of Council.

As Governance, Finance and Economic Development Chair, it is my responsibility to ensure we deliver a budget that delivers real outcomes for our residents, while ensuring our ongoing financial position remains sound.

It is also important to ensure we look ahead and deliver a budget that adequately addresses growth in our city and lays the platform for a prosperous future.

Maintaining service delivery while delivering a CPI budget in a city that is experiencing significant growth is not a simple task.

Logan will invest $48.8 million in the management and maintenance of the city’s parks that already attract families from across South-East Queensland.

Council has a team that is highly skilled and competent in financial management.

The Queensland Audit Office (QAO) report tabled at Parliament on 5 May 2015 shows that in the overall assessment of council financial governance, Logan City Council was in the “good” category in relation to financial statement quality, the “within expectations” category in relation to the effectiveness of internal controls and the “moderate” category in relation to our financial sustainability relative risk assessment.

The most significant factors that are positively impacting on our financial sustainability include: •

growth in the city

•

low level of borrowings with strong debt servicing capacity

•

consistent investment in our asset base

•

stable local government with experienced management

•

prudent financial management

It is also the result of minimising operational expenses in all areas – across all activities – each and every day.

One of the key messages from the QAO report is that asset management is a cornerstone of long-term financial sustainability. Council has $4.9 billion in total assets, which is reflective of the size and complexity of assets that Council builds and maintains.

This approach has delivered a balanced budget for our community, ensuring vital services continue to be provided to the standard expected by our community.

In order to support Council’s capital program, we will borrow $59.1 million in 2015/2016 - taking Council’s total borrowings up to $309.3 million.

In this budget, there will be an investment of $215.5 million in road, drainage and engineering services, $209 million in water and sewerage services, $42.9 million in community infrastructure and $35.8 million in waste management.

Council is well-placed to service this level of borrowings with a net financial liabilities ratio of 33.8 per cent, which is well within the Queensland Treasury Corporation (QTC) target of no more than 60 per cent. Council’s debt service

It is, however, something we have achieved by keeping ‘best value for ratepayers’ front of mind in all decisions.

Cr Luke Smith

cover ratio is also forecast to reach 4.4 times, which is well above the target set

by QTC of greater than two times cover.

Council has a very healthy balance sheet with strong levels of liquidity. Our budget shows a working capital ratio of 3.5 to 1, which is very high against industry benchmarks.

I am also pleased to advise that last year’s financial accounts once again received a positive audit report.

There is no better place than Logan and I am truly confident that, as we move into the future, we are setting up the city for ongoing success.

With low levels of borrowing and strong debt servicing capacity, we are well positioned to manage and capitalise on growth into the future.

Having said that, serving the community is our core function and we will continue to maintain our focus on providing the best possible customer service to our residents.

With an experienced and stable leadership team – I truly believe the best is yet to come for Logan.

I would like to echo the sentiments of the Mayor and thank my colleagues and Council’s management team, led by our CEO, DCEO Organisational Services and Finance Manager, for their tireless efforts throughout this year’s budget process.

Cr Luke Smith

Phone: 3412 3412

Email: lukesmith@logan.qld.gov.au 3

Investing in the future of Logan’s sport and recreation facilities More than 100 community buildings in the City of Logan will be targeted for maintenance this year.

The program will ensure 120 sport and recreation facilities leased to volunteer organisations across the city meet legislative safety rules.

Logan is lucky to have a wide range of volunteer organisations across the city that give time to help with ongoing management and maintenance of public facilities.

However, our community halls, sports grounds and other infrastructure deteriorate over time so Council must ensure they continue to remain safe for everybody to enjoy.

“Council has allocated $1.6 million in the coming 12 months to carry out corrective works and will allocate $400,000 annually to fund the ongoing maintenance program.”

The program will focus on safety, ensuring public buildings have working fire extinguishers, accessible emergency exits and are equipped with electrical safety switches Those facilities deemed to require urgent repairs will be prioritised for works.

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Local athletes and clubs given a sporting chance to shine The City of Logan’s sports stars of the future will receive greater financial support from Council under a plan to expand the Logan Sports Development Program (LSDP).

The LSDP provides funding for local clubs and individuals to subsidise travel costs, club development and sports infrastructure.

Created through a partnership between Council and the Brisbane Lions, the LSDP has been in high demand.

Almost $250,000 in financial assistance has been allocated to Logan residents participating in sport since the program started in 2012.

The funding has mainly helped pay travel costs for Logan athletes representing the region in state, national and international competitions.

However, it is also available to local clubs to help them improve their governance and operations.

Council has allocated an additional $40,000 towards the program this year, on top of the existing $76,500 commitment from the Brisbane Lions, resulting in annual funding of $116,500.

Nothing but net gains for Logan basketball Some of Australia’s brightest basketball talents will hold court in the City of Logan under a partnership agreement between Council and SEQ Basketball.

The arrival of an elite basketball program featuring a newly established Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) team and a South East Australia Basketball League men’s team is a boost for local basketball.

Under the three year agreement, the unnamed teams – a name will be determined through a social media competition – will play and train at the

2,200 capacity Logan Metro Sports Centre.

Coached by four-time Olympian Shane Heal—and featuring a trio of Australian Opals and WNBA stars in Erin Phillips, Rachel Jarry and Rebecca Allen—the WNBL side will represent South-East Queensland in the national competition.

Local pathways to professional basketball will be more brightly lit too, with the SEQ Basketball program intending to establish an academy for emerging talent.

THERE ARE SO MANY FREE OR LOW-COST WAYS TO GET INVOLVED IN ACTIVITIES ACROSS LOGAN. When they are not hosting organised competitions or events, Council’s major venues are home to a range of community programs and services.

LOGAN ALWAYS ACTIVE

Council spends almost $350,000 each year to help deliver a diverse range of community health initiatives and sports programs across the City of Logan. The indoor sports centres, under the banner of inSports Logan, support local groups such as Logan Basketball and Special Olympics but also deliver chronic health management classes like Beat It and Heartmoves. Council owned aquatic venues offer the popular Aqualogan Learn to Swim in partnership with Laurie Lawrence and include free opportunities throughout the year with the Kids Alive program.

The funding and subsidised venue hire also contributes to events throughout the year, including school celebrations, awards nights and cultural festivals like the upcoming Queensland Music Festival. Logan residents and community groups are welcome to enquire about holding events at the extensive range of centres and locations across Logan through the LEC or Logan Metro events teams.

The Aqualogan Laurie Lawrence Swim School is fully owned and operated by Logan City Council.

THERE TO SEE IS PLENTY AND D O s

o check ou www.log t anentert ainmentc com.au a entre. nd www .insports com.au f lo gan. or details and to ge involved t .

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Logan streets prepare for some beauty therapy Some of the City of Logan’s busiest roads will be given a makeover in a $2.4 million city beautification project.

Local streets will be revitalised through a targeted program of landscape works, line marking, median strip cleaning, tree pruning and street sweeping.

Logan’s roads are the lifeblood of the city, carrying thousands of residents and visitors each day, so we want them to look their best.

Areas identified for improvements include: landscaping, line marking and cleaning works on sections of key arterial roads such as Browns Plains Rd, Wembley Rd, Plantain Rd and Park Ridge Rd. The city beautification project is a one-off budget initiative in 2015/2016 that will allow Councillors to nominate areas in their respective divisions that need cleaning up, whether it’s removing rubbish, weeding median strips or installing new signs.

More than 920 parks stretch across the City of Logan’s 957 square kilometre expanse, and are enjoyed by residents all year round.

Council will spend $48.8 million in 2015/2016 to fund a range of activities including park and roadside mowing, maintenance of playgrounds, BBQs, toilets and picnic areas and the replacement of ageing park assets.

Logan’s bush trails will receive greater attention this year with $615,000 of funding for maintenance, including support for volunteer programs that assist with the restoration of bushland areas.

GRASS growing better rural roads

This in addition to the $2.7 million that annually funds firebreaks, hazard reduction burns, weed control and revegetation of bushland areas.

More gravel roads and shoulders will be sealed in 2015/2016 under a revised program.

A directory of some of Logan’s most popular parks and their amenities can be found at www.logan.qld.gov.au

Designed to make nuisance a thing of the past and cut the need for expensive ongoing maintenance, the Gravel Roads and Shoulder Sealing (GRASS) project will return for another year.

Approximately $1.5 million, drawn from capital works, roads maintenance and Councillor’s division funds, will be allocated to cater for around 14 roads.

Divisions across the south, western and eastern sections of the city will benefit from the project.

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Cultivating pride in our parks

Council will spend $48.8 million in 2015/2016 to fund park and roadside mowing, maintenance of playgrounds, BBQs, toilets and picnic areas and the replacement of ageing park assets.

Grassed areas across the city and garden beds will continue to be maintained to high standards.

Focus on roads renewal for a growing city Did you know the City of Logan’s road network has 2,178 kilometre of roads, including 91 kilometres of unsealed road?

In the 2015/2016 Budget, Council has made a $75 million investment into roads and drainage infrastructure to keep up with growing demand.

A further $33 million will be spent on renewing existing road and drainage infrastructure across the city in 2015/2016.

Without roads our city stops.

$42 million will be invested into new road and drainage infrastructure capital projects in the new financial year, including bringing forward $7.5 million in funding to complete the $17 million project to upgrade Chambers Flat Rd.

Council had also committed an additional $1.5 million towards widening narrow roads and sealing gravel roads across the city to improve safety and convenience to road users and residents.

Keeping on top of essential maintenance while budgeting for future expansion is a difficult and expensive business, and Council has again dug deep to fund this community priority.

Kerbside clean-up 27 July 2015 – Eagleby (hard and green waste)

All residents in Eagleby can use Council’s free kerbside clean-up service.

Free tip vouchers for ratepayers The City of Logan’s ratepayers will continue to receive free tip vouchers this year.

The tip vouchers, which will be distributed to ratepayers in their July rates notice envelopes, permit four free trips to the tip.

Each voucher allows for free disposal of general waste loads up to 750 kilograms or two cubic metres.

The tip vouchers are accepted at:

•

Beenleigh Waste and Recycling Facility

•

Browns Plains Waste and Recycling Facility

• • •

Carbrook Waste and Recycling Facility Greenbank Waste and Recycling Facility Logan Village Waste and Recycling Facility.

First introduced in 2013, the vouchers proved immediately popular with Logan residents.

Almost one quarter of the 145,000 residential waste drop offs in Logan last financial year were conducted with free tip vouchers.

Council will also continue to perform an annual kerbside clean-up across the city for bulky waste.

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Supported by Audi Centre Springwood

8

IKEA

Beenleigh’s CBD revitalisation continues An artist’s impression of the new Beenleigh Town Square, which is due for completion in September 2015.

Beenleigh’s town centre has been reshaped over the past 12 months, with work on the $9.75 million revitalisation project to continue in 2015/2016.

The six-way roundabout is being transformed into a town square precinct that will benefit the community for many years to come.

Council has called for expressions of interest for operators of a café and markets to bring a creative vibe to the space, with construction expected to be completed in September 2015, weather permitting.

At the end of April the public were asked to vote on their preferred name for the precinct. Going forward it will be known as Beenleigh Town Square.

Council officers are regularly on site and are happy to discuss the project with local businesses or residents.

To keep up to date with the project’s progress, visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/beenleightownsquare

New flood protection in the bag More sandbags will be available for residents during severe weather events thanks to the purchase of a new sandbagging machine.

Previous manual sandbagging operations run by SES volunteers across three sites during recent rain storms produced about 800 bags an hour.

The new sandbag machine and conveyor system approved by Council for purchase can produce more than 1,200 sandbags an hour from one site.

The $38,000 unit is also lightweight, portable and capable of being shifted around locations to respond to the needs of residents across the city.

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’S ON WHAT

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edition r e b m e c De The July – uide will g w o h S of the LEC onth. m s i h t d e be releas please y p o c r u yo To reserve 12 5626 4 3 t c a t n co

GUIDE15 SHOW 0 ecember 2 July – D

Save the date 18 August 2015 FREE activities include health checks,

workshops, get active programs, massages, information stalls, and much more.

Ticketed show to be announced shortly.

Logan Entertainment Centre 3412 5626 www.loganentertainmentcentre.com.au

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City of Logan Events SATURDAY 18 JULY

NAIDOC FLAG RAISING CEREMONY TUESDAY 7 JULY 10am – 12.30pm, Logan Art Gallery The NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony will celebrate this year’s NAIDOC week theme of We all stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate. The ceremony involves the Indigenous elders of the local community providing an event to mark the beginning of the NAIDOC week celebrations. The event provides a flag raising ceremony of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, indigenous entertainment, guest speakers and light refreshments.

2.30pm – 4.30pm, Slacks Creek

Sl ac ks C

Join Logan City Council and others in your community for a social walk along Slacks Creek. This walk will provide a great opportunity to meet new people, and discover the natural values and unique wildlife of Slacks Creek.

Workshops and events are free and run by Logan City Council for Logan residents. Bookings are essential and places are limited. Workshops are suitable for all ages unless noted.

ree k Co mmunity alk W

To book, email environment@logan.qld. gov.au or call 3412 4491. You may also request to be placed on our mailing list for future events and activities.

National Tree Day SUNDAY 26 JULY 8.30am – 11am, Glenlogan Lakes Park, Jimboomba Come along to National Tree Day and plant a tree or two to help revegetate the Logan River and provide habitat for native wildlife. The aim of this year’s National Tree Day event is to continue on from previous work done by a Community Bush Care group in the park. Barbecue provided.

All volunteers attending this year’s tree planting event are required to wear covered shoes, a hat and bring sufficient water with them to drink.

Gloves, tools and equipment for planting will be provided.

For more information or to RSVP please phone 3412 5578 or parksdepot@logan.qld.gov.au

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Disaster know-how: using sandbags to protect your home The City of Logan experienced two heavy rainfall events in 2015, which caused properties to flood after local creeks rose quickly.

Logan City Council encourages everyone to know how their properties might be affected by floodwaters—whether caused by rising rivers or local creeks—and how to be prepared so damage is minimised.

Many people often think of sandbags as a solution, but don’t often know how to use them properly, or don’t realise that sandbags won’t completely stop the water and will only reduce the amount of water entering their premises.

Council is providing new equipment to speed up the production of sandbags. Availability of sandbags in an emergency will be advertised on our social media or check with SES on 132500.

Sandbags can also be purchased at major hardware stores, landscape supplies and other retailers.

Step by step: how to place sandbags Sandbags can be laid over floor wastes and drains (shower and bath) to prevent grey water backflows, and can also be used in front of doorways, roller doors and brickwork vents. The number of layers required will depend on the expected flood height, however generally two rows should be high enough.

Sandbags that have been exposed to floodwater should be thrown away as they may contain chemicals, harmful waste and contaminates (wear sturdy gloves to protect yourself).

For more information about sandbagging, visit http://www. disaster.qld.gov.au/Be_Prepared/ sandbagging.html

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STEP ONE Place down a layer of plastic sheeting to act as the waterproofing membrane.

Lay sandbags like brickwork on top of the plastic sheeting.

STEP TWO STEP THREE

Make sure you leave at least one doorway to access or exit the building.

STEP SIX

Start at one end and work to the other end. Flattening down the sandbag row before adding the next row will help you build a better structure.

Ensure the unfilled top part of the bag is covered by the next bag.

Stagger rows so that the joins do not line up.

STEP FIVE Tuck flap under the bag at the end of the row.

STEP FOUR

Rainy day fund will support Logan in times of crisis The City of Logan community and Council’s long-term financial outlook will be protected from rising costs associated with extreme weather events after $4 million was set aside in this year’s budget.

The rainy day reserve has been a priority for Council, as uncertainty continues around the availability of federal relief funding for communities hit by natural disasters.

Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) only become available once a disaster is officially declared over a specific area, so the $4 million has been allocated to minimise the financial impacts of extreme weather events that the Federal Government might not qualify as a disaster.

Maintenance and repair bills in the aftermath of severe storms or flooding still have the potential to cost Council (and the community) millions of dollars, even if those events are not officially deemed a ‘disaster’ by higher authorities.

Council’s first responsibility after a localised disaster is to fund the maintenance and repair of essential public infrastructure so the community can return to its normal routine as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, to pay for those works, Council either has to cut funding from a range of programs and services or defer capital works projects funded from rates.

Under the terms of NDRRA, Council can access funding if a natural disaster is officially declared locally but the funding is limited to emergency restoration works and would only become available once the damage bill surpasses a certain threshold (just under $800,000 in Logan’s case).

The Federal Government expects local governments to draw on their own funds before seeking support from NDRRA.

Flood warning plan to keep Logan prepared Residents will be able to better understand and prepare for the risks of flooding to their properties under a $130,000 plan—to be carried out over the next two financial years—to enhance flood modelling in the City of Logan.

Under the plan, residents will have access to up-to-date flood information and simple mapping tools that will allow them to learn about flood risks in their area.

The enhanced modelling will improve community knowledge of flood prone areas and give individual property owners a greater chance to protect their family and property.

There are two aims to the improved flood modelling:

•

giving the community access to information that gauges flood levels to predict when publicly-used spaces like local parks or major roads are likely to be affected by flooding

•

providing residents with specific information that can predict when road access to their home is likely to be cut off, when water is likely to encroach on their property and when over-floor flooding is expected.

Thanks to developments in remote sensing technology, Council can now more accurately and affordably capture information on floor levels and driveway levels for individual properties.

While up to 2,000 properties are at risk of flooding across the city during significant weather events, there are a smaller number at higher risk and this project will work with these property owners.

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Logan City Council 2015/2016 Annual Budget at a glance

Major areas of expenditure (operational and capital)

Roads, drainage and engineering

$839.8 million operational and capital expenditure

services

$215.5m Libraries and cultural services

$15.5m

Water and sewerage services

Waste management

Community Infrastructure

$209m

$35.8m

$42.9m

Development assessment

Animal and pest services

$9.1m

$9.1m

Environmental services

Regulatory services

$7.1m

$6.0m

Pension remission Parks management and maintenance $48.8m

TOTAL REBATE: (rates + waste collection) FULL PENSION $321.00 + $27.20 = $348.20

Eligible ratepayers on a maximum rate

WASTE REBATE 10 per cent

pension are entitled to a rate remission

PART PENSION $160.50+ $13.60 = $174.10

up to $160.50 per year for those on

remission on waste service charge (full pension) and a 5 per cent remission on waste service charge (part pension).

of up to $321

per year and

a non-maximum rate pension. Eligible ratepayers on a maximum rate pension are entitled to a rate

remission

of 10 per cent on the cost of

their waste service while residents on a non-maximum rate pension are entitled 14

to a 5 per cent remission.

Based on the average weekly 240 litre waste bin and fortnightly 140 litre or 240 litre recycling bin service, the remission would be $27.20 per annum for those on a maximum rate pension.

$9 million parks and roadside mowing and landscaping

$59 million water and wastewater capital expenditure

Where will Council earn its income in 2015/2016?

General rates 20.0%

User charges 41.3% Contribution and donated assets 12.9%

Other revenue 16.6% Fees and charges 4.3%

5% rate discount for payment by due date (Excludes water and wastewater charges and State Emergency Levy)

Grants 3.8%

Investment interest 1.1%

Other budget highlights $13.7 million......... Water and wastewater network renewal program

$7.5 million Chambers Flat Rd upgrade

$3.89 million......... Loganholme wastewater treatment plant upgrade $3.38 million......... Chambers Flat Rd to Princess St wastewater

infrastructure upgrade

$3.3 million........... Beenleigh Town Square $3.05 million......... Bahrs Scrub wastewater mains upgrade $2.7 million........... Logan Metro Traffic Management $2.5 million........... Books and related materials for our libraries $2.4 million........... City beautification to clean up nominated streets $1.6 million........... Maintenance of sport and recreation facilities

$4 million natural disaster fund

The majority of residential ratepayers will notice an increase in their general rates and charges of $19 a year after discount, or 37 cents a week.

(Excludes water and wastewater charges and State Emergency Levy)

$3.3 million bushland maintenance & restoration

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Promoting our great city The City of Logan has a lot to offer and Council has continued its commitment to enhancing our city’s image with a $500,000 investment.

Promotion of the city helps attract visitors, businesses and investment and as part of the 2013-2018 Corporate Plan, Council endorsed a three-year City Image campaign.

In the 2015/2016 Budget, Council reaffirmed its support of the campaign to further develop and implement the City Image campaign over a longer period of time, which is essential to ensuring it delivers real outcomes for our community.

The allocation of the funding will be determined by Council during the year.

Bright Lights of Logan Throughout the City of Logan, several key structures provide bold and bright night time landmarks through feature lighting installed in 2003.

This feature lighting on the Jacaranda, Telfer and Wineglass water towers is set to be upgraded as part of our routine maintenance program to keep the lights operational.

Energy saving and long-lasting LED lights will be used for the first time allowing the lights to change colour.

This will mean the feature lighting on all towers can be themed to coincide with events and celebrations in Logan as well as special state and national occasions.

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Global Connections deliver local results In an increasingly connected world, forging strong international relationships is a key to economic success.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the strategy’s recent successes:

Logan City Council’s Global Connections Strategy is based on the principles of building and reinforcing relationships that deliver real economic outcomes for our local community.

INVESTMENT

Since its inception in 2012, the strategy has resulted in more than $58 million being invested, with another $12 million of investment now in the final stages of confirmation.

Commitments for another $160 million in future investment are also in place.

RELATIONSHIPS The establishment of formal relationships with cities in Asia are the key to unlocking two-way economic opportunities for Logan and its local businesses.

Three new economic agreements have been signed in the last 12 months: Economic and Friendship Agreement with Xuhui District Government.

Economic Cooperation Agreement with Panjin Municipal Government.

Economic Cooperation Agreement with Suzhou Chamber of Commerce—this organisation has 20,000 members and the potential to create a large number of partnership opportunities for Logan based businesses.

To find out more about Global Connections, visit www.loed.com.au or phone 3412 4888.

A $12 million development, resulting in the retention of 30 jobs plus the potential for an additional 30 jobs to be created through an environmental manufacturing business is currently being finalised.

Acquisition of Marsden Park Shopping Centre and the proposed $60 million development and refurbishment of the centre. This investment has come as a result of a strengthening relationship between Logan City Council and QIC.

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS TESTIMONIALS “Thank you for the opportunity to partake in the delegation to Seoul, Korea. It was an insightful trip with some solid contacts made along the way. Being raised in Logan, it is heartening to see that Logan City Council is both progressive and proactive when it comes to local economic growth.”

Logan environmental business.

“I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to Logan City Council for all the support, advice and guidance. It has been of particular importance when hosting international delegations, in particular from China, as it is culturally very important to have government to government, or Council to Council rapport established between parties.”

Prominent local school.

Promoting Logan to the world The Logan Office of Economic Development has facilitated a large number of events and activities as part of Global Connections including the Queensland Investment Expo in June 2014.

A number of the 258 international delegates are now progressing and exploring opportunities to invest as a direct result of attending the expo including: • An investor for the $550 million Australian Multicultural Tourism Village at Carbrook, increased its commitment in this project from $50 million to $150 million.

• The Commonwealth Bank of Australia, which was a partner and exhibitor at the event, signed 10 new clients, with one depositing $2 million into an investment account.

The Queensland Investment Expo helped promote the City of Logan to the world 17

Holiday Program powers on Active school holidays are back on the agenda for the next financial year as the Logan McDonald’s School Holiday Sports Program continues.

Receiving $80,000 in funding in this year’s budget, the program will again feature across venues from Cornubia to Browns Plains during the June/July, September/October and December/January holiday periods.

Now reaching legendary status as the place to go for holiday fun, parents should book early to avoid disappointment.

More information and booking dates can be found here: www.insportslogan.com.au/ schoolholidays

LIVE WELL LOGAN inspiring a healthy community

Get out and active again in 15/16 If health and wellbeing are on your agenda ahead of summer or to ward off the winter blues, look no further than Live Well Logan for your daily dose of activity and inner peace.

Back again for 2015/2016 thanks to a $132,760 funding allocation, programs to get you movin’, get you groovin’ or to simply find your inner zen will be on offer right across the city.

For full dates, times and locations visit Council’s website www.logan.qld.gov.au/ livewell

Stay alive, learn the five Logan kids will be given the best opportunity to learn life skills that may one day save their lives—with free swimming lessons continuing for another year.

The Council owned Aqualogan Laurie Lawrence Learn to Swim School is offering its five free lesson blocks again in 2015/2016.

For booking information and dates, visit council’s website at www.logan.qld.gov.au/aquaticcentres 18

KRANK-ing out another year of holiday activity The City of Logan’s popular KRANK program is continuing for another 12 months, with $76,950 in funding allocated to subsidise activities.

Since its launch in 2005, the program has become a popular fixture on the school holiday circuit, providing young people an opportunity to beat holiday boredom in the most creative ways.

Recent activities have included skateboarding lessons, art masterclasses, how-to demonstrations and a range of other events.

Keep an eye out for the next program here: www.logan.qld.gov.au/krank

MATTHEW COX has been appointed as the Director of the Logan Together initiative.

Best start for every child

Congratulations to City of Choice Leadership Team member and Head of Griffith Logan Campus, PROFESSOR LESLEY CHENOWETH who has been made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division for her services to higher education, particularly in the area of social work.

Continued support for innovative early childhood development initiative Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the City of Logan’s youngest citizens, setting aside $80,000 in the 2015/2016 budget to support Logan Together. It’s an innovative collective impact initiative that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of every child in Logan aged birth to eight years.

Logan Together is a cross-sector collective approach involving all three levels of government, as well as non-government agencies, childhood development service providers and the community to improve the way services are delivered to young children and their families in Logan.

Council’s 2015/2016 investment— following on from $80,000 in last year’s budget—will help support the emerging Logan Together backbone organisation. This independent professional body will coordinate participating agencies, build on existing networks in Logan, develop common goals that galvanise community action and develop shared measurement systems.

Other funding partners to date include the State Government ($510,000), the Federal Government ($500,000), the Ten20 Foundation ($450,000), the Australian Red Cross ($75,000), Salvation Army ($25,0000), YFS ($20,000) and The Search ($5,000).

Council has wide-ranging aspirations for its community, especially when it comes to health and wellbeing, and this will see Council play a part in a whole-of-community and crossgovernment initiative that has the potential to improve the lives of an entire generation.

Council played a major role in establishing this initiative through the Logan: City of Choice Two-Year Action Plan 2013-2015, and we will remain an important partner as the groundbreaking project moves forward.

All Logan Together partners will agree on a detailed child development ‘roadmap’ and establish long-term systems improvements that will lead to better support for Logan children and their families.

Fourty-four government and nongovernment agencies and early childhood development providers have officially signed on to Logan Together, which aims to close the gap so that, by age eight, Logan children will be as healthy as any other group of Australian children and reach agreed health, education and social milestones.

Senior staff seconded from the Australian Government Department of Social Services are providing initial support for the independent Logan Together backbone organisation, which is being hosted by Griffith University (Logan Campus) in its early stages.

Recruitment is currently under way for permanent positions.

The next step, now under way, is more in-depth engagement with families and the wider community.

For more information visit www.logan. qld.gov.au/community-support/city-ofchoice/logan-together

LOGAN :

Cityof Choice

Logan Together is a key initiative of the Logan: City of Choice Two-Year Action Plan 2013-2015.

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Planning Scheme 2015 One planning scheme for the City of Logan – consistency, certainty and opportunity

By 2031 City of Logan will grow from 300,000 to

420,000

people

70,000 new

dwellings across the City of Logan – an increase of around 70%

­50,000 new jobs created,

capitalising on the City of Logan’s locational advantages – an increase of more than 60%

Specific local plans

1,373 hectares of employment land within an industrial or mixed business zone – an

support development

in key economic centres such as – Logan Central, Beenleigh, Springwood and Meadowbrook

716

increase of hectares

Supporting business growth and job creation in the right locations • No development applications required for complying industrial developments.

• No development applications required for preferred and complying centre development where no building works are proposed.

• 5 day turn around for RiskSmart development applications – all code assessable developments are eligible.

• R ­ educed levels of assessment to make development application processes simpler and more affordable.

Supporting mums and dads

32,268 hectares

of land for residential development, providing a strong housing supply pipeline across the City of Logan.

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Streamlined processes to make building a house

easier and faster

Auxiliary units

are an important initiative of Council in promoting housing choice and affordability in the City of Logan.

Planning for the future a priority Council is stepping up its efforts to secure funding for critical city-building infrastructure for the City of Logan, allocating $100,000 for a targeted advocacy campaign.

The campaign will focus on key projects including the Pacific Motorway widening through Logan, extension of the South-East Busway from Rochedale to Loganholme, upgrade of the Wembley Road/ Logan Motorway interchange and the Salisbury to Beaudesert Passenger Rail Service.

These projects need to be high on the lists of key decision makers ahead of the 2016/2017 State and Federal budgets and the next Federal election, with Logan having the fifth largest local government population in Australia.

It is also one of the fastest growing regions in the country.

Key facts 86% of local travel in Logan is by car, 6% by public transport and 1% by active transport such as walking or cycling

The cost to deliver these projects will run into the hundreds of millions of dollars, but the social and economic cost to the community over the mid to long term will be far greater if they are not funded.

The campaign will be largely coordinated within Council using existing resources but will also seek advice from external agencies with advocacy expertise.

A young city with 31% of the population under the age of 20 years, with a median age of 33 years

Freight links to Brisbane, the air and sea ports, the main eastern seaboard and western access to the Surat Basin

Logan experiences a high dependency on motor vehicles for transport, with 36.5% of residents owning two motor vehicles, 21% own three or more

The City of Logan’s Estimated Resident Population is currently 305,110.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, June 2014

Source: Logan: City of Choice State of the City 2013 document

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Old dogs teach seniors some tricks Seniors looking for some companionship can adopt a pet free under the Senior Pets for Senior People program.

Under the program, owners are provided with free lifetime registration for their senior pet.

Not only does the program provide pensioners with companionship, but it also helps rehome abandoned cats or dogs with a new owner, giving them a second chance.

Elderly residents interested in providing a loving home for a mature aged cat or dog can do so by visiting www.logan.qld.gov.au/seniors and completing the Registration of Interest – Senior Pets for Senior People form or visiting the Animal Management Centre at 213 Queens Rd, Kingston.

Pensioner discounts lighten the load A range of discounts and services will continue to be offered to pensioners in the City of Logan’s 2015/2016 budget.

Council will spend $3.9 million to pass on savings through its rates and garbage collection services to Logan’s elderly residents.

Approved pensioners on a maximum rate pension will save up to $321 per year on their rates bill while non-maximum rate pensioners could save up to $160.50.

About 13,800 of Logan’s properties are eligible for the rates subsidy as well as a garbage charge discount of up to 10 per cent for approved pensioners on a maximum rate and up to 5 per cent for non-maximum rate pensioners.

Pensioners wanting to find out more information about discounts they can claim, or any of the services Council provides for seniors, can visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/seniors or phone Council on 3412 3412.

Come and chat with Councillor Laurie Smith and Mayor Pam Parker at the next Division 7 Cuppa with the Mayor.

Thursday 23 July - 10am to noon

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Forestdale McDonalds, Shop 5, 1 Forestdale Dr, Forestdale.

Make sure your pool is fence compliant by 30 November The 30 November 2015 deadline for pool fence compliance is fast approaching.

In December 2010, the Queensland State Government introduced new swimming pool safety standards and pool owners were given five years to have their pool certified to the current standard.

Pool fencing regulations • Both new and existing pools must comply with the Queensland Government’s pool safety standard by 30 November 2015 Please note: Where breaches are identified through a complaint process, Council will require pool safety fencing to comply prior to this date.

• The current standard also applies to all portable pools and spas deeper than 300 millimetres – this includes many cheap inflatable pools • A pool safety certificate is required when selling, buying or leasing a property with a pool • Gates must be self-closing and pool safety barriers must be a minimum of 1,200 millimetres from top to bottom with no climbable objects in the surrounding area.

If you are unsure, or know your swimming pool does not comply with current pool safety standards, it is important to contact a pool safety inspector to ensure compliance before the deadline. All swimming pools must also be registered on the State Pool Register.

To access the Register, contact a pool safety inspector, or for more information on pool safety standards, please visit www.hpw.qld.gov.au/ construction/buildingplumbing/poolsafety or phone the Queensland Building and Construction Commission’s pool safety hotline on 1800 340 634.

Council’s concealed leak remission policy changes From 1 July 2015, Logan City Council’s policy regarding concealed water leak remissions will only apply to residential owner occupiers.

All other categories, including residential rental properties and all non-residential properties, will no longer be eligible for a remission.

To find out more about the policy changes visit www.logan.qld.gov.au A fact sheet on water metering and leaks can be found by scanning the QR Code shown.

Help Council make its mark with graffiti removal The most effective way to respond to graffiti is to remove it quickly but Council needs your help to stamp it out.

A vandalised area that goes unreported is more likely to attract further graffiti, so the sooner you let Council know the better.

Council’s graffiti response service aims to remove graffiti within 24 to 48 hours of it being reported.

Council has committed more than $560,000 towards its successful and highly-acclaimed Graffiti Management Team for 2015/2016.

Residents wanting to report graffiti can email graffiti@logan.qld.gov.au or phone toll free 1800 731 026.

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Keeping costs down on pet ownership

Tag your mate for life

The costs of compulsory pet registration in the City of Logan will stay the same in 2015/2016 at $32 annually for a desexed cat or dog.

The tag you receive the first time you register your pet is the only one you need.

Logan’s pet owners are doing the right thing too, with about 85 per cent of known cats and dogs in the city registered by their owners.

The lifetime tag is part of a Council plan to keep the costs of animal registration down.

Residents no longer have to get a new tag for their pet as part of their annual registration renewal.

This is great news for our animal management officers, as it means lost or wandering pets with a microchip are more likely to be quickly reunited with their owners.

Pension and concession card holders are also eligible to receive discounted desexing and microchipping services at the Combined Vets of Logan City Desexing and Microchip Clinic at the Animal Management Centre, 213 Queens Rd, Kingston, phone 3209 3220.

Unfortunately, Council still looks after some pets in need of a home.

Through its ‘Pet of the Week’ program, staff at Council’s Animal Management Centre use social media and brochures to promote the sale of cats and dogs in their care.

All animals for sale are desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and registered.

Free obedience classes and dog enrichment toys are also included with each purchase to encourage people to give a home to a dog in need.

Tag is for life

Expo to boost career options Local students are set to gain a career kick start thanks the annual City of Logan Youth Careers Expo.

Students between the ages of 15 and 18 will be invited from local schools and given the opportunity to explore different professions and other options available to them after completing their schooling. Youths aged 15 to 24 are also welcome.

They will also be able to gain further information on future study options that will enable them to define and achieve their goals.

Mainfreight and the Maxima Group Australia are sponsoring the event and there will be displays from more than 28 exhibitors including potential employers, training agencies and higher education institutions.

The event will be held at Logan Metro Indoor Sports Centre on Tuesday 28 July 2015 and will run from 9.30am to 3pm.

For more information visit www.logan.qld.gov.au

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FREE Event!

Kick start your career

Tuesday 28 July 2015 9.30am - 3pm

• potential employers • training agencies • higher education institutions • prizes to be won • bring your resume

Logan Metro Indoor Sports Centre 357 Browns Plains Rd, Crestmead

Join the event on Logan City Council’s Facebook page For more information visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/YouthExpo

Proudly supported by

Sponsored by

All in a day’s work for Logan’s Mother of the Year Being ‘ultra-organised’ and sticking to her family’s daily routine at home in Cornubia is Barnardos Mother of the Year winner, Leanne Robson’s secret to mothering success.

who had endured challenges to support their families was a highlight of the trip.

“They were absolutely amazing mothers who were going above and beyond for the children they cared for, whether it was their own or foster children or other children they had taken in,” Leanne said.

The early childhood teacher has successfully raised two children to adulthood, including an intellectually impaired daughter.

For the past eight years, Leanne and her husband Geoff have dedicated their lives to caring for three foster or adopted children with extreme disabilities.

“So for me, I was just stunned that I won because there were so many deserving winners there and we’ve made some lifelong friendships from spending those three days together with some lovely ladies.”

It’s all in a day’s work for Leanne, who was stunned to learn Geoff had nominated her in the Mother of the Year competition held by Barnardos Australia – an organisation that works to stop child abuse and support disadvantaged children.

“I certainly didn’t expect to be recognised for what we do every day for the children,” Leanne said.

“I was stunned and couldn’t believe he had done that.

“It was just the sweetest thing to do.”

Having won the Queensland title, Leanne and Geoff travelled to Sydney in May to be presented with the national award by Prime Minister Tony Abbott at Kirribilli House.

Leanne’s husband Geoff – a Beenleigh police officer – said he nearly fell over when the Prime Minister read Leanne’s name out as the winner.

“I never told her I was going to (nominate her for the award),” Geoff said.

When asked about being a mother —whether it’s changing nappies or taking the boys out to Logan River Parklands—Leanne is as humble as Geoff describes her.

“We just get up and do what we need to do every single day for the benefit of the children,” Leanne said.

“I just typed it up from my heart talking about what she did and put it out there, and then completely forgot what I typed.

“To give you an idea about how beautiful and humble she is, she actually went to the ceremony with a box of chocolates and a card with some encouraging words in it to give to the mother that won.

“As it turned out, we got to eat the chocolates that night.”

Leanne said meeting other mothers from around Australia at the awards

“It’s nice to know there are other people who recognise that as being special.”

It is special, and it’s also something Geoff acknowledges is done by mothers everywhere without recognition.

“What Leanne does is what any mum can do and is probably doing,” he said.

“There are mums out there that are just working hard, looking after their own families and giving back to the community, and any mum can aspire to do that.”

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CCTV upgrade envisages safer streets for the city A $30,000 upgrade of Logan’s Safety Camera Program (LSCP) will improve the quality of footage supplied to the Queensland Police Service.

New video streaming technology will also allow police officers to stream live footage from the cameras directly to their tablets to help them better respond to incidents.

This funding, allocated in the 2015/2016 budget, follows on from multi-million dollar investments made in the past 12 months by Council and the Federal Government.

The next phase of Logan’s state-ofthe-art safety camera program will be unveiled over the coming months, with 25 new cameras funded under a grant from the Federal Government to be installed across the city by September.

The new cameras come on the heels of the opening of a new $1.3 million safety camera monitoring room in March 2015.

The Federal Government has committed $1.4 million for Council to install the digital CCTV cameras across the city as part of the LSCP. An additional camera, funded by the Division 11 Divisional Infrastructure Capital Improvement Program, will also be installed at Jimboomba Park, bringing the total to 26 new cameras.

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The new cameras are being installed at the following locations across the city: Division

Number of cameras Location

Division 1

Two

Underwood Park, Priestdale (two cameras)

Division 5

Four

cnr Haig and Monash roads, Loganlea cnr Chambers Flat and Kingston roads, Waterford West cnr Barklya Pl and Brigalow St, Marsden cnr Chambers Flat Rd and Bourke St, Waterford West

Division 6

Three

cnr Ellerslie Rd and University Dr, Meadowbrook Logan Hospital, Armstrong Rd, Meadowbrook Loganlea TAFE, Armstrong Rd, Meadowbrook

Division 7

One

Greenbank Recreation Reserve, Greenbank

Division 10

One

Shailer Pioneer Park, Harley St, Shailer Park

Division 11

Nine

cnr Mt Lindesay Hwy and Cusack Lane, Jimboomba Jimboomba Park, Jimboomba (two cameras – one funded by divisional funding) cnr Homestead and Bushman drives, Flagstone

The new monitoring room streams a feed directly to local police communication rooms to enable police to respond to and manage incidents while in progress.

Coachwood Park, Flagstone

Nine cameras made up the safety camera program when it started in 2001 – more than 300 cameras are now monitored across the city, and Council has strong relationships with Queensland Police Service and Queensland Rail.

Tully Park, North Maclean

cnr Homestead and Poinciana drives, Flagstone Parkside Dr, Flagstone Teviot Downs Park, New Beith Division 12

Six

George St, Beenleigh cnr Alamein and Lae streets, Beenleigh cnr Alamein and Main streets, Beenleigh Doug Larsen Park, Boundary St, Beenleigh Beenleigh Town Square, Beenleigh (two cameras)

A Retro Classic Come and party like it’s 1995 and pick up some vintage goodness as the Logan Recycling Market celebrates 20 years of bespoke bargain hunting.

Items on sale at the market are sourced through Council’s waste pick up service or received via local donations, so this is your chance to bag that one-of-a-kind gift in Logan’s premier pre-loved emporium.

FREE FAMILY EVENT Saturday 4 July 10am to 2pm

A free family event with entertainment and activities will be held on Saturday 4 July to mark the 20-year milestone, offering an assortment of furniture, hardware, toys, bicycles and much more.

Held at the Browns Plains Waste and Recycling Facility in Heritage Park, the recycling market is the ideal place to find items in great condition at excellent prices.

And every purchase you make helps to make a difference with profits from sales going to local charities via the Logan Mayoress’ Community Service Committee.

The celebration event will be held from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 4 July at the Browns Plains Waste and Recycling Facility, 349 Browns Plains Rd, Heritage Park.

If you can’t make the event, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a bargain.

More quality second-hand items are being added to the market’s stock every week so head down for a look.

For more information, please contact 3412 3412 or visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/ recyclingmarket

Keeping our city up to scratch

Disabled parking

Illegal dumping of waste and rubbish not only affects the look of our city, it can create major health and safety risks.

One of the benefits of living, working and doing business in Logan is the absence of paid parking, however, time limits and disability restrictions do apply.

Building materials, green waste and unwanted furniture and household items can attract rodents and other vermin, create fire hazards and expose the public to toxic substances.

Council actively enforces disabled parking at an increasing number of shopping centres and on Council roads and facilities.

For this reason, illegal dumping is also punishable under the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011 with fines of up to $2,356 for an individual and $8,835 for a company.

Logan City Council offers kerbside cleanup, free tip vouchers and other waste disposal subsidies, and encourages all residents to report instances of illegal dumping so the waste can be removed and offenders identified and punished.

To find out more about the disposal of waste or to report illegal dumping, contact 3412 3412.

The City of Logan is a community that cares and disabled parking bays are essential to the quality of life for those with mobility issues.

P

Penalty increases From 1 July 2015, the Queensland State Government increased the value of penalty units and this will result in increased penalty amounts for many local law breaches.

Examples of the increased penalty amounts from 1 July 2015 include: Previous penalty Penalty from 1 July 2015 Not displaying a disability permit in a disabled car space Parking a heavy vehicle on a road in a built up area or public place for more than one hour Failing to register a pet within 14 days Dog off-lead in a public place – not under effective control

$227

$235

$569

$589

$227 $341

$235 $353 27

Logan River Parklands reanimated with art Faced with the challenge of turning a basic brick amenities block into a work of art City of Logan artists commissioned to make the transformation turned to the community for inspiration.

One of the Animating Spaces Logan: Arts in the Park Project Coordinator, Andrea de Rien said public consultation encouraged the artists working on the project to highlight the immediate surroundings in the design.

“How to create something that is artistically credible, that the community can identify with from a basic working amenities block is a daunting prospect,” she said.

“We asked the community for ideas and using the media of ceramic tiles we developed a design that incorporates the bridge, flora, fauna and fish found in the Logan River.”

The project is scheduled to be unveiled at the Logan River Parklands, Blackbird Street, Beenleigh.

To mark the occasion an event will be held on-site on Sunday 6 September

Photo: Local artists Andrea de Rien, George Budd, and Isaac Patmore work on the final designs.

from 10am to 3pm with live music, fun and mobile vans providing food for what promises to be a great family day.

A giant billboard located next to the parklands - facing the M1- will promote the re-animated space to passers-by.

Logan City Council is supporting

the Animating Spaces Logan project which is part of a statewide program run by Artslink Queensland with the support of major funding partners, the Australian Government through the Regional Arts Fund (Regional Arts Australia), Australia Council for the Arts Creative Communities Parnership initiative and the State Government through Arts Queensland.

The Arts in the park project will culminate on Sunday September 6 with a day full of art, music, food and family fun at the Logan River Parklands, Blackbird St Beenleigh.

Loving learning from an early age There are plenty of ways to develop your child’s love of learning from an early age in the City of Logan.

Logan City Council Libraries hold story times and Best Start early literacy sessions that are fun and free for all ages.

Baby Time, Toddler Time, Story Time, Sensory Story Time and AUSLAN Story Time sessions are regularly held across the city for younger learners.

There is plenty of help for school aged children too, with LEGO literacy clubs, Homework Help and the awardwinning Pageturners reading program provided through Logan Central, Beenleigh and Marsden Libraries.

To find out more about Council’s commitment to free learning, visit www.logan.qld.gov.au/libraries 28

Logan resident Mohammad Atahee

Logan students awarded Griffith scholarships City of Logan resident Mohammad Atahee has been named as the recipient of the 2015 Griffith University Bendigo Bank Scholarship.

After graduating from Woodridge State High School last year, Mohammad described his first weeks at university as challenging.

The Bachelor of Commerce student is among seven Logan students to receive scholarships awarded to students who have lived and attended high school in the region.

“My life has changed in so many ways since I’ve come (to Australia),” he said.

Mohammad, who arrived in Australia from Afghanistan by boat in 2010 and gained permanent residency in 2011, applied for the Bendigo Bank Scholarship to support his goal to become an accountant and financial planner.

“I’ve learnt a new language, a new culture, and made lots of friends,” he said.

“Now I am a full-time student living independently and need to support myself financially.

“I love Griffith University and I am very grateful for this opportunity.

“The environment is great, there is easy access to computers, the classes are great, and the staff are friendly.

“A big thank you also to all the staff at Woodridge State High who helped me during my time there.

“I have lived in Logan for four years now and to me Logan is the best place to live because it is such a multicultural place.”

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Logan City Councillors Cr Pam Parker

LOGAN CITY COUNCIL CONTACT DETAILS

Mayor Chair Ordinary Council Meeting

Phone: 1300 1 LOGAN* (1300 156 426) *Council’s 1300 number is only for use by customers within Logan City from a landline. When contacting us from a mobile phone or from outside Logan City, please phone 3412 3412.

E mayor@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 4226

Cr Lisa Bradley

Cr Laurie Smith

Representing Division 1

Representing Division 7 Assistant Chair Roads and Water Infrastructure Committee

E lisabradley@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5501

E lauriesmith@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 3412

Cr Russell Lutton Representing Division 2 Deputy Mayor Chair Sport and Community Services Committee, Safe City Advisory Committee and Logan Road Safety and Bicycle Advisory Committee

Cr Cherie Dalley Representing Division 8 Chair Planning and Development Committee E cheriedalley@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 3412 M 0411 869 117

E russelllutton@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5502 M 0411 869 099

Cr Steve Swenson

Cr Phil Pidgeon

Representing Division 3 Assistant Chair Governance, Finance and Economic Development Committee

Representing Division 9 E philpidgeon@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 3412 M 0411 869 109

E steveswenson@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 3412 M 0411 869 114

Cr Don Petersen

Cr Darren Power

Representing Division 4 Chair Roads and Water Infrastructure Committee

Representing Division 10

E donpetersen@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5504 M 0412 120 210

E darrenpower@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5510 M 0411 869 119

Cr Graham Able

Cr Trevina Schwarz

Representing Division 5 Chair Animals and City Standards Committee

Representing Division 11 Chair Parks, Health, Environment and Sustainability Committee

E grahamable@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 3412 A/h 07 3803 4479

E trevinaschwarz@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5511 M 0411 658 066

Cr Luke Smith

Cr Jennie Breene

Representing Division 6 Chair Governance, Finance and Economic Development Committee

Representing Division 12 Assistant Chair Sport and Community Services Committee

E lukesmith@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5506 M 0403 246 187

E jenniebreene@logan.qld.gov.au T 07 3412 5512 M 0411 658 297