Council Magazine Summer 2023-2024

EDITOR’S WELCOME

Our final issue for 2023, first for 2024, signals the ending of a very full year of ups and downs.

This edition focuses on the true purpose of councils Australia-wide – to support and bring together communities; creating a better quality of life and a prosperous future for residents.

In the past few years, we have all been so focused on survival, and for councils that meant reactive community responses and ensuring that urgent needs were being met. However, the air has seemed to change, with communities slowly recovering from the pandemic and extreme weather events, and in turn having time to focus on the not-so-critical projects.

An example of one of these is our – very cutely depicted – cover image of Tweed Shire’s Rail Trail. A new community asset creating a fun and active recreational space for locals and tourists alike to explore the area's history, and most importantly: play.

We also feature the City of Melbourne and its Greenline Project, another community space that aims to elevate residents’, and tourists’ experiences and boost the amount of outside space for city-dwellers.

For our summer issue we also had the delight of speaking to the first ever Indigenous Mayor of Berrigan Shire

Council, Julia Cornwell McKean, about her new role and the hurdles she has faced in the sector.

As we’re attending WIOA, this edition also features an insightful Water and Wastewater feature, one of the articles includes outlining Fraser Coast Regional Council’s recently completed upgrade of its 80-year-old Aubinville Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) – which is preparing the community for the future.

It has been a pleasure delivering you with the latest news, opinion and insights from the sector, for the sector. Have a restful holiday season and, as always, my virtual door is also open.

April Shepherd Editor

14

SHIRE COUNCIL’S NEW MAYOR IS CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY

Council Magazine caught up with Berrigan Shire Council’s new Mayor, Julia Cornwell McKean, to discuss her work as the newly elected Mayor of Berrigan Shire Council and the challenges she faced when trying to enter local government for the first time.

Working with member councils, industry, government agencies and other stakeholders, the Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) is a model of collaboration that is designed to deliver tangible benefits to the region. Its latest project aims to develop a carbon to ethanol plant that will turn greenhouse gases into products, and most importantly, energy. 22

Australia, a land of breathtaking beauty, has a fierce adversary that has long cast its shadow over its golden coasts and rugged hinterlands: bushfires. These unyielding flames, time and again, have scorched vast expanses, threatening both human settlements and pristine ecosystems. As communities rebuild and forests regrow, there emerges a pressing question: How can we anticipate the unpredictable? The answer lies in early detection.

Fraser Coast Regional Council has recently completed the modernisation of its 80-year old Aubinville Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), in an effort to ensure that the plant will continue to be reliable and meet the future needs of Maryborough’s growing community.

As increased density in urban centres leads to low land availability, it can be difficult for councils to find vacant land that can be used as dedicated recreational space. However, through the idea of pocket parks, University of New South Wales (UNSW) researchers are working with councils to find ways to repurpose underused land by setting up green oases in cities.

REGULARS

A monumental restoration effort has breathed new life into

This edition, we focus on the City of Melbourne and its Greenline Project, a globally-significant riverfront development, which is set to inject $1 billion into Melbourne’s economy, as early works begin on a transformation of the Yarra River – Birrarung.

LANDMARK WIN: ROADS TO RECOVERY FUNDING DOUBLED TO $1 BILLION PER YEAR

By Cr Linda Scott, President of the Australian Local Government Association

In a landmark win for local communities and Australia’s 537 councils, the Federal Government recently announced a $500 million per year increase in Roads to Recovery funding.

This major funding increase – which has been a core focus of ALGA’s advocacy and leadership over recent years – was announced by Infrastructure Minister Catherine King on 19 November, in response to the Federal Government's Infrastructure Investment Program (IIP) Review.

We were delighted to welcome this extra funding– to be phased in over the Federal Budget forward estimates – because it will help us to deliver safer local roads in our communities, and boost our nation’s productivity.

I sincerely thank Minister King and the government for responding to our ongoing calls for support, and recognising the key role our local roads and infrastructure play in building more resilient and connected communities.

In 2022 alone, 46 disasters were declared across Australia, covering more than 300 different council areas.

Increasing Roads to Recovery funding to $1 billion per year will enable us to fix our damaged roads, and build them back to a better, more resilient standard.

As part of the IIP review, the Government also announced a $40 million per year increase in Black Spot Program funding, as well as a new Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

This new program will combine the existing Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity and Bridges Renewal Programs, with

funding gradually increased from $150 million to $200 million per year.

Unfortunately, more than 1,100 people have lost their lives on Australia’s roads already this year, with rural, regional and remote areas over-represented in fatalities. So investing in safer local roads, especially outside of our major capital cities, will help reduce this unacceptably high national road toll.

In November, I was also delighted to welcome a new independent report by the Grattan Institute calling for Australia’s councils to receive an extra $1 billion in federal funding each year to address our road maintenance deficit.

The Potholes and Pitfalls: how to fix local roads report recommended that Australian councils be given an extra $400 million per year in Roads to Recovery funding, and a $600 million increase in Financial Assistance Grants.

We were thrilled the government has agreed to increase Roads to Recovery funding, and we are now strongly focused on securing more untied Financial Assistance Grants.

Restoring Financial Assist Grants to at least one percent of Commonwealth taxation revenue would support us to fully address the $1 billion per year road maintenance gap, while also investing in the livability and productivity of our communities.

Local governments collect less than four percent of national taxation, and ALGA will continue to push for long-term, sustainable funding partnerships that will support your councils to be financially sustainable into the future.

Finally, I wish everyone in local government a very Merry Christmas, including our mayors, shire presidents, councillors, staff and volunteers.

I hope you all have a relaxing break and a prosperous New Year – and please drive safely on our roads these holidays.

Cr Linda Scott is President of the Australian Local Government Association, the national voice of local government, representing 537 councils across the country.

LGAQ PRESIDENT TO STEP DOWN IN 2024

President of the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), Mark Jamieson, has announced that he will step down from his position, after more than seven years of service in his role.

Mayor Jamieson will leave his role in March 2024, after serving 12 years at Sunshine Coast Council and seven years as president.

Under the terms of the LGAQ Constitution, Mayor Jamieson will complete his tenure as President of the LGAQ 90 days after the 16 March 2024 elections.

LGAQ CEO, Alison Smith, thanked Mayor Jamieson for his outstanding service to his community and the Queensland local government sector.

“On behalf of Queensland’s 77 councils, I’d like to thank Mayor Jamieson for his stewardship of the LGAQ and his commitment to its members and their communities,” Ms Smith said.

“No-one is more committed to their communities than local councillors, and Mayor Jamieson’s achievements in office are testament to that.

“Mayor Jamieson’s leadership has helped reinforce local councils as the level of government closest to their communities, at the same time as ensuring the LGAQ is heard and listened to in the corridors of power.

“He helped spearhead significant campaigns to improve accountability inside the Crime and Corruption Commission, he helped highlight the unworkable and damaging councillor conduct provisions that needed to be reformed, made sure communities and councils were heard during the Covid response and natural disasters, and sounded the alarm on the housing crisis.

“During his time as President, he has led LGAQ delegations to all corners of the state and the nation, which have provided valuable on-the-ground learnings from members and communities, as well as fighting tenaciously for the fair and firm funding all Queensland communities deserve to enhance liveability.”

ALGA COMMENDS MAYOR JAMIESON

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has applauded Sunshine Coast Council Mayor LGAQ President Mark Jamieson for an outstanding career in local government.

ALGA President, Councillor Linda Scott, sincerely thanked Mayor Jamieson for his long and effective service to councils at a local, state and national level.

“On behalf of Australia’s 537 councils, I sincerely congratulate Mayor Jamieson for his outstanding contribution to and leadership of local government,” Cr Scott said.

“Mayor Jamieson has enjoyed a wonderful career, including serving as LGAQ President for the past seven years.

“He also served on our ALGA board for four years, making a significant contribution to local government policy at the national level, and helping secure a better deal for our communities.

“Mayor Jamieson was also an instrumental leader in championing the bid for Queensland to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, and leaves a considerable local, state and national legacy.

“I wish Mayor Jamieson all the best for his future endeavours and thank him sincerely for his contributions to local government and the communities we serve,” said Cr Scott.

BRISBANE RECOGNISED AS WORLD-CLASS SUSTAINABLE CITY

Brisbane has attained gold level under the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Cities Global Initiative, becoming the second city in the world to achieve this recognition.

Brisbane was the first Australian city to receive Silver Certification in the UN-Habitat’s Sustainable Development Goals Cities Global Initiative in 2022.

The city now joins La Paz, Bolivia, as one of two places in the world to attain gold level, and will be the first city to submit a new generation Voluntary Local Review (VLR) to mark the city’s progress against the UN’s 17 development goals.

Brisbane’s Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, made the announcement at the Asia Pacific Cities Summit in Brisbane, which is being attended by nearly 1,200 delegates, including 118 mayors from around the world.

Mayor Schrinner said that the UN had recognised how Council’s practical approach towards sustainability was not just about cutting waste and emissions, but also cutting costs for Brisbane’s 1.2 million residents.

“What this recognition from the UN really means is that Brisbane just keeps getting better,” Mayor Shrinner said.

“It means that the raft of measures our Council team continues to undertake to keep Brisbane clean and green – to preserve our unique lifestyle and ensure we grow sustainably – is working.

“It means our practical approach is a far better way to improve sustainability compared to the pie-in-the-sky target setting we see so often from other levels of government.

“For example, we’re introducing the new Brisbane Metro, a fully-electric high-capacity mass transit system that will save 50,000t of emissions over 20 years but also get people where they want to go more efficiently.

Mayor Schrinner said that Brisbane is also investing in green bridges with the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge to not only remove 80,000 cars a year from roads but deliver a longneeded connection across the river from Brisbane’s CBD.

“We’re delivering sustainable new parks like Hanlon Park in Stones Corner, which not only meant an ugly century-old concrete drain was removed but also delivered a great destination for families and restored a more flood-resilient natural waterway.

“And we’re doing things for households like slashing the costs of green waste recycling bins to $1 a week, making larger yellow-top recycling bins free, providing rebates for composting equipment and expanding Brisbane’s food waste recycling scheme beyond the current 30 suburbs.

“These practical measures don’t just help households cut down on waste. They help them cut down on cost.”

NSW GOV TIGHTENS

SHORT-TERM RENTAL REGULATIONS

The New South Wales Government is tightening its cap on non-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA), following a planning proposal from Byron Shire Council that encourages properties to return to the long-term rental market.

In response to the Independent Planning Commission’s (IPC) recommendation, the cap will be tightened on some STRA from 180 days to 60 days per 365-day period.

Some precincts in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads with high tourism appeal, near beaches and services, were identified by Council to operate without a cap – allowing for year-round use.

Hosted short term rentals (where the host resides on the premises during the stay) are unaffected by this decision and can be undertaken 365 days per year.

There will be a twelve month transition period for the community and industry to prepare before the new rules take effect on 26 September 2024, ahead of the 2024–2025 summer.

Byron Shire’s housing pressures are different to other New South Wales locations, with the percentage of short-term rentals exceeding that of similar destinations.

The increase in short-term rentals in the region has coincided with population growth alongside limited new housing completions, resulting in very tight supply and high prices in the residential housing market.

The tightened cap is expected to support permanent housing in residential and rural areas, helping key workers and long-term residents who are being increasingly priced out of the market.

The return of non-hosted shortterm rental properties to permanent residency is only one part of helping to address housing supply and affordability issues in the Byron Shire, as noted by the IPC.

Before endorsing the Shire’s planning proposal, the New South Wales Government stated that it asked Council to detail how it intended to improve housing supply, in addition to introducing the rental cap.

The Department of Planning and Environment will now work with Council to monitor its commitment to increase housing supply over the coming year, to achieve its broader housing supply commitments to deliver over 4,500 houses by 2041.

New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, said,

“It’s well known there has been an undersupply of housing, particularly affordable and diverse housing across the Byron Shire for many years. This shortage of housing largely affects key workers and permanent residents.

“These changes to short-term rental accommodation only address part of Byron’s housing supply and affordability issues, and it was important for me to clearly understand Council’s plan to deliver more housing through other mechanisms, before making a decision on the proposal.

“After reviewing Council’s housing response, I am satisfied with the response and have decided to endorse the new cap across parts of the Byron Shire, as recommended by the IPC.

“I recognise short-term rental accommodation is a complex matter in the Byron Shire and the housing market and affordability pressures here are particularly acute.

“In the current housing crisis, it’s important every available means to boost housing stock for the community is utilised, including a shift from nonhosted STRA to long-term rentals.”

LEPPINGTON TOWN CENTRE PLAN UNVEILED TO REVITALISE

Camden Council and Liverpool City Council have unveiled a draft plan to enhance the Leppington Town Centre, in an effort to transform it into a thriving area less than 20km from the future Western Sydney International Airport.

Tall buildings, town squares and sports fields are just some of the features of the draft Leppington Town Centre Planning Proposal, which is now on public exhibition.

The draft Proposal also paves the way for:

∞ Up to 11,000 new apartments and townhouses over the next 20 years

∞ Up to 11,000 jobs

∞ New and expanded community facilities and schools

∞ New urban streets and plazas, cycleways, busways and pedestrian laneways

To answer any questions and receive community feedback, Camden and Liverpool Councils will carry out an extensive program of community engagement activities.

In 2019, the New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) requested Camden and Liverpool Councils conduct a review on potential future development of Leppington, noting its identification as a strategic centre in the New South Wales Government’s Greater Sydney Region Plan and Western City District Plan

The Councils commissioned a range of background studies to better understand market demand and feasibility

for residential and retail uses and employment development over time. Those studies underpinned the zoning and other planning controls in the draft proposal.

Initial consultation was undertaken in 2021 to help inform the vision. Both Councils submitted the Planning Proposal on 18 November 2022. On 25 August 2023, the DPE issued a favourable Gateway Determination, enabling the Planning Proposal to proceed to public exhibition.

Camden Council Mayor, Ashleigh Cagney, said that what lay ahead was a very exciting time for Leppington.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a vibrant, attractive town centre that will be a home for generations,” Mayor Cagney said.

“This draft proposal will help make Leppington a destination for locals and visitors to our area.

“The vision is for Leppington to become a thriving town centre with a mix of homes, shops, open space and community facilities, connected to the Aerotropolis and located within the heart of the Western Parkland City.”

Liverpool City Council Mayor, Ned Mannoun, said that it is an exciting time for Sydney’s south-west as it grows into the economic powerhouse of the region.

“With 400 people moving to the south-west every week this will provide much needed jobs and housing,” Mayor Mannoun said.

“The draft proposal, if adopted, will see Leppington Town centre transformed into a vibrant area. We have seen the success of Edmondson Park – we need Leppington to be better than that, in order to cater to the needs of a rapidly growing population.”

The draft Leppington Town Centre Planning Proposal will be on public exhibition until 6 February 2024.

Featured image: An artist’s impression of the future Leppington Town Centre. Image credit: Liverpool City Council, Camden Council.

PUTTING FIRST AID FIRST: EARLY INTERVENTION AND RECOVERY

At Blackwoods, workplace safety is at the heart of everything we do. We work hard to ensure every one of our team members arrives at work safely in the morning and gets home in a safe condition at the end of the day. But workplace injuries are sometimes unavoidable.

Whilst we would like to avoid all injuries in the workplace, we do need to have a plan when they happen. Blackwoods would like to share our First Aid First initiative, which has made a big impact on our Return & Recovery at Work System, and how we support our injured workers.

EARLY INTERVENTION IS KEY

In 2021, we conducted a review of our workplace injuries. Since our team carries out manual tasks daily, our most common forms of workplace injuries are sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries to the back, shoulder, wrist and ankle.

We know that these types of injuries can be successfully treated by our trained First Aiders we have at each of our locations. Through this program we found that our first responders only attend First Aid training every three years, and in some cases when they were faced with an actual incident, treatment strategies were not easy to recall.

We saw that a robust early intervention and recovery program within the workplace could have a positive impact on our team members and business, and could greatly reduce the need for visits to medical professionals. What was needed was an easily accessible program that regularly reinforced the basic principles of First Aid, and that offered clear and concise information at a critical moment.

By undertaking internal support training for our 170 First Aid officers, we have increased their confidence and ability to treat and monitor many soft tissue injuries in-house. This resulted in our team members not having to navigate the medical system and Workers Compensation.

FIRST AID FIRST TOOLS

We empowered our First Aid team by looking at the top five workplace injuries and developing Injury Profiles for them. We branded them with the ‘First Aid First’ catchphrase, together with the Blackwoods logo, so they would be easily identifiable. Each profile covers a singular common injury

type, and provides information on signs and symptoms, causes, recommended First Aid, dealing with pain, tips and suggestions, as well as expected recovery timeframes.

We then set up First Aid notice boards in our various locations, showcasing our First Aid officers onsite as well as the Injury Profiles, which we continuously expand on based on feedback from our team. To reinforce our commitment to early intervention, we deliver yearly internal frontline leader Injury Management training, so that leaders are also comfortable with our First Aid First approach and how they can support.

Our First Aid First community is also supported through quarterly newsletters and live learning events, hosted by internal and external experienced guest speakers. We’ve seen great results, as they give our staff an opportunity to discuss injury situations and to take them from merely a theoretical possibility in a textbook, to real-life experiences from longstanding First Aiders.

Lastly, we’ve introduced lanyards with a 3-step quick reference guide to dealing with a workplace injury.

Amanda Haddad, Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing at Blackwoods said, “Over the past two years, we’ve seen a notable improvement in our injured team members' recovery rates and a decrease in Workers Compensation claims.

“It is great to receive positive feedback from our injured team members, who’ve felt supported and cared for during their recovery. I am very proud of the confidence and momentum we have built within our First Aider community and what this program brings to our employee value proposition.”

WA COUNCIL RE-ELECTS MAYOR

The City of Stirling has re-elected its Mayor following recent elections.

Mark Irwin was first elected as a City of Stirling Councillor for the Coastal Ward in 2015, before being elected Mayor by his fellow Councillors in 2017.

The City then moved to a system of a popularly elected Mayor in 2019. Mayor Irwin became the first popularly elected Mayor in the City’s history.

Mayor Irwin thanked the community and his family and friends for their support.

THE ORGANIC CHOICE FOR FAST WEED CONTROL

Beloukha is a non-selective, bio-degradable, broad-spectrum, foliar applied herbicide that acts exclusively on contact, attaching and destroying the cell membrane of the plant epidermis causing rapid tissue dehydration.

Features

680g/L Nonanoic Acid

Rate: 6 – 8L of product/100L of water

Applied in 200 to 600L of water/Hectare

Fast acting with visible effects on green plant tissue

Derived from natural occurring substances sourced from Sunflowers

Biodegradable

Many use patterns

Available in 1L, 5L, 20L, 200L & 1000L packs

Benefits

Highest load Nonanoic Acid on the market

Lower use rates per treated hectare

More treated hectares per drum

Transport and storage efficiencies

Rate range to give more flexibility

More treated hectares per spray vat

Less time wasted filling spray tank with water

Lower rates of product per hectare

Most weeds show effects within hours of applications

Derived from plants to kill weeds

Breaks down into carbon dioxide and water

Orchards and Vineyards, Grapevines - Unwanted suckers, Fallow soil

Paths, Driveways, Around sheds, Gardens, Amenity horticulture areas, Protected cropping situations, Around Nursery stock

General uses - including around buildings, commercial and industrial areas, domestic and public services areas, rights-of-way

Spot spraying in Lawns and Turf

A pack size for every situation

PUBLICATION TO SUPPORT COUNCIL CYBER SECURITY

The Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has developed a new publication that local governments and other organisations can access for guidance in handling cyber security issues.

With its release in October coinciding with Cyber Security Awareness Month 2023, the publication How the ACSC can help during a cyber security incident is designed for professionals who lead an organisation’s incident response capabilities.

Supporting

a secure, stable and sustainable energy system

for the future

Gas is not merely a transitional fuel; it is a fuel in the midst of a transition. By investing in Renewable Gas now, we can secure reliable and sustainable energy solutions for the future, offering more options for households, businesses, industries, and transportation. Renewable Gas, which includes green hydrogen generated from renewable electricity and biomethane made from organic waste, is an additional source of energy that is already being successfully utilised in other parts of the world. It has the potential to help Australia meet its emission targets more efficiently while creating new opportunities for regional employment and many circular economy benefits as the country moves toward a net-zero emissions goal by 2050.

The publication provides the latest advice on:

∞ How to report a cyber security incident to ASD’s ACSC

∞ The ACSC’s role in whole-of-government cyber security incident response

∞ How to become an ASD Cyber Security Partner

The ACSC can also provide technical advice and assistance and help minimise further harm.

Reporting also helps authorities to develop and update cyber security advice.

Find out more about renewable gas projects and opportunities in NSW: gorenewablegas.com.au

CHOOSING AN ELECTRIC SOLUTIONS PROVIDER: WHAT YOU

NEED TO KNOW

Seemingly a very new technology, many don’t know that electric vehicles actually have a long history dating back to the 19th century. Over time the technology has evolved from a niche eco-friendly choice, to a viable mainstream option, revolutionising many industries such as outdoor landscaping and maintenance equipment.

Like the first generation of smartphones, which were basic and clunky compared to today’s sleek, sophisticated devices, electric solutions have undergone decades of development and fine-tuning.

Once unable to keep up with gas-powered counterparts, electric solutions now match or surpass their performance.

This has been made possible by dedicated efforts to evolve this technology, and ample research and development (R&D). Just as smartphone manufacturers invested heavily in innovation, the trailblazers of electric equipment providers, like EcoTeq, have committed themselves to continuous improvement – resulting in substantial upgrades in terms of range, power, efficiency and durability.

As the electric market expands, local governments have a wealth of options at their fingertips. However, many of these emerging solutions are light commercial or domestic models, which may not be suitable for the rigorous demands of council use, which is why purchasing from a trusted and established supplier is key.

THE KEY FACTS FOR COUNCILS TO CONSIDER ENSURING EQUIPMENT IS UP TO THE TASK

Local government works often require robust machinery capable of long hours of operation, navigating difficult terrains and handling a diverse range of outdoor maintenance and landscaping jobs.

When assessing the performance of electric equipment, buyers should consider factors such as range limitation, battery life, and recharge time, which all impact an operator’s ability to tackle projects without interruption.

Less powerful machines may struggle with tasks involving large rubbish, debris or even wet leaves. In contrast, tried-andtested heavy commercial machinery, such as EcoTeq’s electric street sweepers, have a strong suction vacuum and dust filtration system that can handle demanding environments.

ELECTRIC FROM THE GROUND UP

True commercial electric equipment is not simply converted from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric power. These machines are designed electric from the ground up, utilising lighter, stronger materials. This results in improved efficiency, power and battery life.

For example, EcoTeq electric ride-on mowers are constructed using aircraft alloy, a material renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Incorporating this into the manufacturing process significantly reduces the machine’s weight without compromising its durability or structural integrity, not only enhancing manoeuvrability and ease of use but also reducing the energy required for operation, thereby contributing to a longer battery lifespan.

When comparing electric equipment, another factor to take into account is how long the company has been supplying commercial-grade electric machines. It's also equally important to delve into the manufacturer's background – how long have they been in the business of manufacturing electric equipment? Is it their speciality, or a new gimmick?

PIONEERS IN THE FIELD

There are tons of big-name brands in the market, but many of them lack the depth of experience and expertise of companies that have been exclusively electric focused for a decade or more.

Meanwhile, manufacturers with over ten years of experience have likely surmounted many of the challenges that a newcomer in the industry is only beginning to confront today.

For example, EcoTeq mowers are manufactured in the US under the Mean Green brand, a company that has been building electric mowers for more than a decade. EcoTeq’s electric sweepers have been available in Australia for more than eight years. Like Mean Green, these sweepers have been through the R&D process for more than a decade and are widely employed throughout Europe, including by the City of Westminster in London.

At EcoTeq, we work directly with the manufacturers of our machines. Their representatives have visited Australia and EcoTeq staff have visited factories in the US and Europe. As well as providing technical service, our team of factory-trained experts can assist buyers in selecting the right machine for their specific needs.

Building a local reputation on quality and performance, EcoTeq solely supplies commercial-grade electric cleansing and landscaping equipment in Australia.

Electric: Better for communities, councils and the environment.

Q&A:

HOW BERRIGAN SHIRE COUNCIL’S NEW MAYOR

IS CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY

Council Magazine caught up with Berrigan Shire Council’s new Mayor, Julia Cornwell McKean, to discuss her work as the newly elected Mayor of Berrigan Shire Council and the challenges she faced when trying to enter local government for the first time.

Berrigan Shire is a cross-border community located in the Southern Riverina of New South Wales, near the Victorian border. Cross-border issues have defined Mayor Cornwell McKean’s work in local government so far, as she campaigns for vital infrastructure and support services.

Hitting the ground running, Mayor Cornwell McKean has made strides to connect with her community and government ministers to improve the quality of life for Berrigan Shire residents.

HOW IS YOUR TERM AS MAYOR GOING SO FAR?

It's been a very busy time, but I jumped straight into it by meeting with local and state representatives. I've already met with the New South Wales Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, and we talked about all things road networks and freight.

I met with the Cluster Manager for Murrumbidgee Local Health District, Mark Massey, and we talked about my commitment to health equity in our communities, which was a really positive conversation.

I also spoke with the Murray River Police District Chief Inspector, Jy Brown, and one of the things I really wanted to focus on with him was road safety.

While we have not had tragedy in Berrigan Shire to the scale of our neighbouring councils, Moira Shire Council and City of Shepparton in Victoria have had many tragic incidents

on the roads. We also use those roads so I'm very keen for the Victorian and New South Wales Governments and police departments to work together to encourage road safety.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE THE FIRST INDIGENOUS MAYOR OF YOUR SHIRE,

ESPECIALLY FOLLOWING THE VOICE REFERENDUM?

Obviously Indigenous Australians have been in Australia for thousands and thousands of years, and I'm honoured to be representing all of the people in our community, including my people.

However, it's no different to me being a woman or being a local person, it's all the same. I represent everyone equally, but I am immensely proud nonetheless.

In terms of the Voice, obviously I voted yes and I supported the campaign. Unfortunately, that’s not where it landed, but you get up and you wipe yourself off. From here, we can consider what the next steps are to find the next best solution to ensure equity for Indigenous people and equity in Indigenous communities.

WAS REPRESENTING YOUR COMMUNITY A BIG PART OF WHY YOU ENTERED LOCAL GOVERNMENT?

Yes, doing good is fundamental to me and community is the most important thing to me.

I grew up in Melbourne, but I commuted between Melbourne and Barooga for over ten years. I really wasn't regarded as a local, but when the pandemic happened, I moved my business wholly to Barooga.

Here I am today, representing the community, bringing my city smarts to old problems, and trying to pave the way for new and innovative solutions while not throwing out the old. I’m just making sure that we partner with some of the new things as well.

HOW WAS YOUR CAMPAIGN AND WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN CHALLENGES LEADING UP TO THE ELECTION?

I was a blow-in candidate and I knew that I needed to go at it hard because the people didn’t know me.

Before my journey to run for council, there had been a situation in 2020 when the Barooga indoor swimming pool was to be closed permanently, and I led a group of locals in securing funding for two years to continue the operations there.

That was where I started and then people started saying, "You should run for Council."

The pool campaign made me get braver in terms of challenging what was happening, in particular the challenges with the border closures and the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cross-border communities are one big community and it really caused a lot of angst for us. We couldn't travel into Victoria and then the Victorians couldn't travel into New South Wales.

I started actively campaigning and writing to the ministers in Sydney, and I got to be known as a bit of a pain and tenacious.

When we had to set up the digital certificates in order to prove your vaccination status, it was challenging for our ageing community in Berrigan Shire, since our average demographic is over 55 and a lot of people are not digitally connected. I spoke to my friend who's the publican at the Barooga Pub and said, "Can I run a help desk at the pub?"

When he said yes, I got there on a Friday at lunchtime and people were queuing out the door for me to help them get their digital certificate on their phone.

We did that again the next day, and I thought, there were so many bugs with the app and it wasn't working. I wrote to the Prime Minister about this and I received a response from his office within five days. I’ve worked in government and you don’t normally get responses from the Prime Minister's office in five days. I got that by being that tenacious person.

WHAT BARRIERS NEED TO BE OVERCOME TO MAKE POLITICS A MORE ACCESSIBLE CAREER FOR FIRST NATIONS PEOPLE?

I think the barriers are financial, especially for First Nations people, but also for all people.

Local government in New South Wales is different to some of the other states. The very small payments that we receive do not cover the loss of income. This means you have to be willing to forego income if you want to run for Council, which often ends up being only people who are retired or well-off that are entering local government.

We have skin in the game and we're prepared to sacrifice our own income in order to do good for our community, which is a rarity.

We could really get more people more involved across all of local government if we considered making sure that the compensation was appropriate for the amount of work and the community expectations.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR BERRIGAN SHIRE IN THE FUTURE?

I think Berrigan Shire has a very bright future, but for the next year, I want to focus on cross-border issues.

We're one of the last places on the Murray that hasn't really blown up in terms of population, but I think that is going to happen soon, which means we will have infrastructure challenges as a consequence.

Right now, the pressing issue for me is the campaign to get an ambulance in Tocumwal.

There are deficiencies in the operational boundaries for the deployment of ambulances from both Victoria and New South Wales to our border towns, which result in the double handling of calls that waste time. I don't have a problem if the quickest ambulance is coming from Victoria, but we need to make sure people don't have to repeat themselves and that an ambulance can get there as efficiently as possible.

There's a campaign being run by the Ambulance Victoria Union about improving that memorandum of understanding and I've written to the Cross Border Commissioners to indicate

our support as a border community to that initiative.

It is a long game because they’re not going to build an ambulance station tomorrow. You've got to find a site, you've got to get plans, you've got to construct it, and you've got to staff it. But we know what's on the horizon, so planning now will put us in the best possible place for the future.

I'm not going to let go, and some people think, "Oh, well, that's the end of the road." There is no end until we have an ambulance.

NEW

STANDARDS ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF EV CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURESTAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE!

As we move towards a greener and more sustainable future, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly gaining momentum. In fact, more EVs were sold in the first half of 2023 than in all of 2022, so it’s important that EV charging infrastructure is robust enough to keep up with the increasing demand.

To this end, the introduction of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 means that a dedicated electric vehicle distribution board (EV DB) is required for new buildings and a certain percentage of parking spaces in new developments and significant renovations be equipped with EV charging points.

DEDICATED EV DBS AND EV LOAD MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

A dedicated electric vehicle distribution board is designed to handle the unique electrical demands of multiple EV chargers simultaneously. It ensures a seamless and optimised charging experience for EV users while preventing overloads and electrical hazards.

As the number of EVs on Australian roads increases, load management becomes a critical aspect of EV charging infrastructure. Load management refers to the strategic control of the electricity demand to prevent grid overloads and power supply issues. It ensures that EVs can be charged efficiently without putting undue stress on the electrical grid.

New buildings and renovations should employ load management strategies such as smart charging and demandresponse technologies to stagger the charging times of multiple EVs. By doing so, you can avoid peak demand spikes, maximise the utilisation of renewable energy sources and minimise electricity costs for EV owners.

MODES OF EV CHARGING - UNDERSTANDING THE OPTIONS

There are several modes of EV charging, each offering unique benefits and use cases.

∞ Level 1 charging – this is the most basic form of charging, utilising a standard household power outlet. It is slow and best suited for overnight charging at home

∞ Level 2 charging – requires a 240V outlet and offers faster charging times compared to Level 1. They are commonly used in residential, commercial and public charging stations

∞ Level 3 charging (DC fast charging) – DC fast charging is ideal for public charging stations along highways and busy routes. It can charge an EV to 80 per cent capacity in a relatively short time

As the demand for EV charging infrastructure soars in Australia, the government sector is in a pivotal position to drive change. To help you take advantage of this transformative opportunity, NHP has partnered with Delta - one of the world’s largest EV charger manufacturers – to bring a range of high-quality EV charging products to the local market which are suitable for most applications in most industries, as well as councils and commercial and residential buildings.

NHP offers a range of Delta EV chargers from the basic 7kW AC option to the 350kW ultra-fast charging option. Our team of dedicated engineers have also developed in-house solutions to meet local changing EV infrastructure needs, including EV readiness site assessment services and NCC compliant EV DBs (pictured), which can incorporate NHP’s new cutting edge load management system, EnergySync.

For more information on NHP’s EV solutions, go to nhp.com.au/EV or speak to NHP’s EV specialists on 1300 NHP NHP.

Faster, smarter EV charging with Delta

NHP’s range of Delta EV chargers provides solutions to suit most applications

■ Easy installation

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■ Smart connectivity for billing

■ Accessories available including charger posts, charging cables and upstreaming hardware

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■ NHP also offers EV Distribution Boards and EV Load Management Systems

Delta AC Max 22kW Casual charging, ideal for long stops of a few hours such as apartments, carparks, retail and home

Delta DC Wallbox 25k Medium charging, ideal for council, retail and business

Delta DC Wallbox 50kW Fast charging, ideal for government, commercial and public infrastructure

Delta DC City Charger 100kW and 200kW Ultra-fast charging for the quickest turn-around, ideal for petrol stations and other transport industries

COUNCIL COLLABORATION DEVELOPS PROPOSAL FOR CARBON TO ETHANOL PLANT

By Steph Barker, Journalist, Council Magazine

Working with member councils, industry, government agencies and other stakeholders, the Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) is a model of collaboration that is designed to deliver tangible benefits to the region. Its latest project aims to develop a carbon to ethanol plant that will turn greenhouse gases into products, and most importantly, energy.

The EMRC is a regional local government authority that works on behalf of four member Councils located in Perth’s Eastern Region: Town of Bassendean, City of Bayswater, Shire of Mundaring and City of Swan. It provides sustainability services in waste management, resource recovery, urban environmental management and regional development.

The EMRC has been working collaboratively with Woodside Energy – a global energy company founded in Australia – on a proposal aiming to transform greenhouse gases into useful products.

Together, the EMRC and Woodside are collaborating on a proposal to develop a Carbon to Ethanol Pilot Plant designed to capture greenhouse gases and convert them into useful products in a process known as carbon capture and utilisation (CCU).

CARBON CAPTURE AND UTILISATION

The Carbon to Ethanol Pilot Plant is proposed to be located on vacant land owned by the EMRC, approximately 12km north-east of Midland in Western Australia, adjacent to the existing EMRCoperated Red Hill Waste Management Facility. The proposed Pilot Plant, which is still subject to approvals, is a demonstration-scale facility that aims to test technologies that can convert greenhouse gases into useful products.

EMRC Chief Executive Officer, Marcus Geisler, said the project aligned with the EMRC’s sustainability strategy that was launched in 2022.

“Woodside was looking for a project site to trial technologies to utilise carbon dioxide. We know that increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels drive climate change, so they want to investigate how CO2 can be turned into a useful product,” Mr Geisler said.

CCU has become a huge focus in sustainability, with the process involving the capture of CO2, generally from large point sources like power generation or industrial facilities that use either fossil fuels or biomass as fuel. The captured CO2 may then be used in a range of applications.

BREWING FUEL FROM WASTE PRODUCTS

The proposed Carbon to Ethanol Pilot Plant aims to take methane and CO2 produced by the Red Hill Waste

Management Facility and put it through a process to turn it into ethanol, which can then be used as a sustainable fuel by Council and others.

Mr Geisler said the process draws a lot of parallels to beer brewing.

“Our landfill generates large amounts of methane and CO2 through the anaerobic conditions, and it’s at a perfect mix of 45 per cent methane and 55 per cent CO2. That mixture will allow Woodside to do this trial,” Mr Geisler said.

“Converting the landfill gas to ethanol is a two-step process. In the first step the methane and CO2 is reformed into syngas (a blend of carbon monoxide and hydrogen). The syngas is then fermented and distilled to produce ethanol (i.e., alcohol) in a process akin to beer or whiskey production. The end product is high purity, fuel grade ethanol.

“The proposed Pilot Plant is essentially recovering a wasted product into something we can use locally. What we’re going to do is convert a couple of pieces of our heavy equipment used at the Red Hill Waste Management Facility and let them run on this ethanol, considered a renewable fuel, replacing diesel.”

ALIGNING VALUES

The proposed Carbon to Ethanol Pilot Plant will be the first of its kind in the world. Rather than finding this a daunting prospect, Mr Geisler said the EMRC felt the project perfectly aligned with its values – the organisation has a target of below net-zero emissions by 2040. The collaboration presents a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of sustainable development with very little risk and high reward, both environmentally and socially.

“It fits with our decarbonisation strategy, instead of burning diesel to run our equipment on the landfill, we’ll be using a fuel made from converted greenhouse gases. We will be using methane and CO2 from the landfill that otherwise would have ended up in the atmosphere – so we’re addressing greenhouse gases and climate change, and that fits with our target of climate action,” Mr Geisler said.

“I like that we are working together. This is local government collaborating with industry. I’m very big on the circular economy, and collaboration is key, as we cannot realise our decarbonisation ambitions in isolation.

“We really need the State Government, the Federal Government, local

government, industry, and academia working together on this. Being a community owned asset, as we are, the EMRC is fantastically placed because we can play a key role enabling and catalysing decarbonisation projects.”

COLLABORATION

Mr Geisler said other councils can learn a lot from the collaboration, particularly in relation to sustainable approaches to strategically placed landfill sites.

“Our core business currently is landfilling, and what is happening with a lot of local governments or regional councils is that landfilling is dying out, as all states and territories are minimising waste and recovering more. For example, Western Australia has set a maximum of 15 per cent to landfill by 2030 target,” Mr Geisler said.

“Instead of closing down these sites, we should really rethink and repurpose the landfill sites and turn them into circular economy hubs by expanding the activities because they’re contaminated sites already, but they’re part of the critical waste management infrastructure.”

The collaboration presents a perfect pairing of want and need – Woodside needs land, landfill gas and water to develop the proposed Pilot Plant, while the EMRC wants to be part of developing sustainable energy solutions.

The EMRC will benefit from the proposed Pilot Plant – apart from being at the forefront of innovative sustainability practices, the project is set to generate money that can be reinvested into other community projects. The EMRC will also benefit from Woodside’s investment into infrastructure at the Red Hill Waste Management Facility with that infrastructure remaining with the EMRC after the proposed Pilot Plant is removed.

“What Woodside brings to the collaboration is the technology. It’s 100 per cent their investment – so as a local government, we are not exposed to that side of the project. It’s really a match of, we’ve got what they need and they can utilise the infrastructure, products and services we have,” Mr Geisler said.

”It’s a fantastic model, that money may then be reinvested in more community-owned waste management and resource recovery infrastructure networks and eco hubs. A true triple bottom line win-win, socially, environmentally and financially.”

HOW SATELLITE CONNECTIVITY CAN SUPPORT YOUR COUNCIL

In today's interconnected world, reliable and efficient connectivity has become an absolute necessity for local governments. The Orion Satellite Systems team understands the unique challenges that councils face, especially in remote and rural areas, where connectivity can be sporadic. Orion is here to shed light on how satellite connectivity can support your council, bringing forth an era of improved communication and operational efficiency.

Orion Satellite Systems has a proven track record of providing innovative connectivity solutions to a variety of industries. Local governments can trust us to deliver exceptional satellite connectivity services tailored to their specific needs. Our commitment to reliability and expertise has made us trusted advisors in the field.

BREAKING DOWN THE COST BARRIER

Cost is often a major concern for local governments, but recent advancements in satellite technology, such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, have removed the traditional cost barrier. What used to be a significant expense can now be a cost-effective solution, making satellite connectivity more accessible than ever.

With advancements in technology, the cost of satellite solutions has significantly decreased. What might have cost $10,000 a year ago can now be as affordable as $1,500 per month, making satellite a feasible option for even the smallest, most remote communities.

CONNECTIVITY IN REMOTE AREAS AND RURAL TOWNS

Not every council may need satellite connectivity, but for those with remote sites or rural towns, it can be a gamechanger. Satellite connectivity is a highly reliable, always up service even in areas where traditional connectivity can be unreliable or sporadic. Our solutions are designed to bridge the digital divide and keep your operations running smoothly, regardless of location.

Additionally, many councils have remote sites or face challenges in areas with poor coverage. Orion Satellite Systems can help you connect these sites efficiently and offer

redundancy, guaranteeing that you stay connected even in the most challenging conditions.

REDUNDANCY: YOUR SAFETY NET DURING EMERGENCIES

In areas with unreliable infrastructure, having a satellite connection as a redundancy backup is a crucial safety net. Natural disasters like floods or fires can wreak havoc on local infrastructure. Orion Satellite Systems can swiftly restore your connectivity post-disaster, ensuring that you remain operational and can coordinate relief efforts effectively.

UNLOCKING POSSIBILITIES WITH MULTI-ORBIT SOLUTIONS

With Orion’s Multi Orbit Solutions, you gain access to multiple satellites. You are not confined to a single orbit that may not align with your specific requirements. Orion's satellite-agnostic approach empowers us to tailor the most optimal asset combinations to meet your needs, whether it involves Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. We provide adaptable and cost-effective packages that come with genuine redundancy.

WHY ORION SATELLITE SYSTEMS

Orion Satellite Systems offers a reliable, cost-effective, and versatile solution for local governments seeking to gain or improve their connectivity in remote and rural areas. Our expertise in satellite technology and commitment to customer satisfaction make us the trusted partner you need to enhance your operations.

Don't let unreliable connectivity hold your community back. Reach out to us today, and let's explore how satellite connectivity can support your council's goals!

Get in touch with us today via our website: orionsat.com.au/contact-us/ or by calling our 24-7 Australian Support Centre on 1800 063 123

TOP TIPS TO HELP COUNCILS DO MORE WITH LESS

Building thriving communities, coupled with a dedication to community service, forms the fundamental principles of Australian local governments. Despite the importance of these principles and the continuous efforts to deliver to their citizens every day, doing local government well is a tough gig.

As the community’s service delivery expectations increase, so does the breadth of services that a council is responsible for delivering to their community. In addition, the scope of legislative compliance and reporting obligations continues to grow, and the sources of funding remain relatively fixed and tightly bound to annual planning cycles.

Perhaps most importantly, councils consistently face challenges in attracting, retaining and nurturing their most valuable resources, their people.

So, with these challenges comes opportunity. It’s time to double down with focus on your people and teams to drive up productivity. The saying ‘do more with less’ really does ring true for councils.

Dropping or delaying key projects is often not an option, nor is delivering a sub-standard service to the community it serves. Whilst solving these challenges might seem like an impossible task, the answer is actually closer than you think.

Here are our top tips to do more with less:

INVOLVE YOUR PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY MEANINGFULLY

Within your council, a massive resource of institutional and frontline service delivery knowledge is waiting to be tapped into. Asking the right questions, listening to their feedback and acting quickly so they feel heard, creates a huge opportunity

for your people to become more productive and improve service delivery to your community.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council proved that case by using the AskYourTeam solution to empower and involve their people.

“I have people who feel involved, that are connected to our council’s purpose, and ultimately see how what they do connects with the people they serve in the community,” Former CEO, Monique Davidson, said.

GET CLEAR ON PRIORITIES. BE INFORMED WITH DATA

Armed with key insights from your people and community, smart reporting and ‘slice and dice’ analytics help identify exactly where the issues and opportunities are, pinpointing where action needs to be focused. By staying true to that, you'll naturally filter out lower-priority tasks and allocate resources more efficiently.

The Council on Quality and Leadership say data equals knowledge. Good data provides indisputable evidence, while assumptions might lead to wasted resources due to taking action based on incorrect conclusions.

At AskYourTeam, our purpose is simple. To help create the most productive and enjoyable workplaces in the world. We partner with over 50 valued council customers across Australia and New Zealand today, who have chosen our solution to drive continuous improvement.

If you’d like to tap into the insights from your people, and do more with less, reach out for a chat: jared.ingle@askyourteam.com

AskYourTeam is the employee experience platform with a difference. There’s no one size fits all with us. Your needs are front and centre, so you get the actionable insights you need to really drive up productivity, wellbeing and retention in your council.

askyourteam.com

Give your council the edge

It’s easier with the right partner by your side

EARLY BUSHFIRE DETECTION SYSTEMS: THEIR VITAL ROLE FOR ALL LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT

By Dr Ehsan Noroozinejad, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University, and Dr Aso Hajirasouli, Department of Architecture, Western Sydney University

Australia, a land of breathtaking beauty, has a fierce adversary that has long cast its shadow over its golden coasts and rugged hinterlands: bushfires. These unyielding flames, time and again, have scorched vast expanses, threatening both human settlements and pristine ecosystems. As communities rebuild and forests regrow, there emerges a pressing question: How can we anticipate the unpredictable? The answer lies in early detection.

By capturing the initial whispers of a potential blaze, we not only stand a better chance at swift mitigation but also safeguard our future. This synergy of technology, foresight, and proactive governance could be the game-changer in Australia's age-old battle against bushfires.

The Black Saturday bushfires of 2009, among others, are grim reminders of nature's wrath. Historically, from the Ash Wednesday fires to the recent 2019-2020 fire season, Australia's confrontation with bushfires has been tumultuous. While traditional methods like watchtowers and human patrols served their time, the evolution of detection, thanks to technology, offers renewed hope.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND EARLY DETECTION SYSTEMS

Bushfire detection has transitioned from rudimentary lookout towers to advanced technology-driven solutions. Central to this evolution is the use of multispectral imaging, where sensors detect radiation not only in the visible spectrum but also in infrared and ultraviolet ranges. As vegetation dries out and heats up, it emits distinct radiation patterns even before a fire starts, allowing for potential pre-ignition alerts.

Satellite-based systems such as Sentinel satellites from the European Space Agency provide regular and high-resolution imaging suitable for monitoring large forest areas. These systems use Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, which can penetrate clouds and smoke, offering consistent surveillance irrespective of weather conditions.

Moreover, satellite data, when integrated with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), allows for precise tracking of fire movements, enabling more effective firefighting strategies.

Ground-based solutions, on the other hand, leverage a mix of thermal cameras, smoke detectors, and anemometers. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has significantly enhanced these systems.

Algorithms can now analyse data in real-time, distinguishing between a benign smoke source and a potential bushfire. Advanced AI models can even predict the direction and speed of the fire spread based on real-time wind and weather data.

Additionally, acoustic detection has shown promise, with systems detecting the infrasound emitted by fires, even when they're tens of kilometres away. The key lies in identifying the unique low-frequency sounds of a fire, distinguishing it from other natural and human-made noises. Together, these technologies offer a holistic and robust framework for early bushfire detection, setting a solid foundation for timely intervention.

BENEFITS OF EARLY DETECTION

Early bushfire detection systems are not just technological marvels; they are lifelines that offer profound benefits, particularly for local councils and communities.

At the core, the foremost advantage is enhanced community safety. By providing early warnings, these systems afford residents vital time to evacuate or take necessary precautions, significantly reducing the potential for casualties. This not only ensures the well-being of individuals but also alleviates the strain on emergency services, potentially diminishing post-fire rehabilitation costs.

Protecting local assets is another pivotal advantage. Councils have invested immensely in public infrastructure, and these systems enable preventive measures to safeguard assets like schools, parks, libraries, and recreational centres from the devastating impacts of bushfires. On a broader

scale, the economic health of the community is safeguarded. Bushfires can severely cripple businesses, particularly those dependent on agriculture or tourism. By catching fires in their nascent stages, the economic backbone of communities can be preserved, ensuring sustained livelihoods.

Efficiency in crises is vital. Early detection systems provide actionable, data-driven insights that allow Australian councils to make informed decisions about resource allocation. Whether it's dispatching firefighting teams, providing medical aid, or planning evacuation routes, these decisions become more effective, maximising the impact of the response and conserving vital resources.

Additionally, the environmental implications cannot be overlooked. Councils often play an integral role in conserving local ecosystems. With early detection, fires can be contained before they escalate into large-scale disasters, ensuring the protection of regional flora, fauna, and the broader ecosystem.

Furthermore, the bond between councils and their communities is fortified. Residents, knowing that their safety is prioritised through the adoption of advanced detection systems, develop a strengthened trust in their councils. This trust is invaluable, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and unity in combating bushfires.

Finally, the long-term fiscal benefits are significant. While there's an initial investment in setting up these systems, the potential reduction in post-fire recovery costs makes it economically prudent. Not to mention, the invaluable data these systems provide can guide future urban planning, ensuring that communities are not just reactive but proactive in their approach to bushfires.

SUCCESS STORIES AND CHALLENGES

In understanding the practical advantages of early bushfire detection systems, it is invaluable to examine real-life scenarios where they've made a difference.

In 2017, New South Wales witnessed one of its most unpredictable fire seasons. The fires, exacerbated by intense dry spells and unpredictable winds, posed significant threats to both urban and rural communities.

However, early detection systems proved to be a gamechanger. Not only did they provide timely alerts, but they also facilitated efficient resource allocation. As a result, rapid response units were dispatched in record time, preventing the fires from reaching several populated areas. This swift action not only saved countless properties but also protected wildlife habitats and conserved the natural landscape, emphasising the broader ecological implications of early intervention.

Fast forward to 2018 in Western Australia. Here, advanced satellite imagery played a pivotal role. When these satellites picked up unusual heat signatures indicative of a budding fire, local councils were immediately notified. Equipped with this early information, authorities swiftly implemented preventive measures. Firefighters and ground teams were strategically placed, community evacuations were efficiently conducted where necessary, and containment strategies were optimised. The potential disaster, which could have displaced numerous families and devastated local ecosystems, was mitigated, further underlining the immense value of early bushfire detection systems.

These instances underline not just the operational efficiencies introduced by the technology but also spotlight the profound impact on community safety, ecological balance, and economic stability. The success stories are a testament to the synergy between technology and proactive governance, advocating for broader adoption across Australia.

However, the road to comprehensive coverage is fraught with challenges. Technological hiccups, including system malfunctions or false alarms, can be deterrents. Australia's diverse terrains, from dense rainforests to arid zones, mandate customised solutions. Furthermore, while the promise

Author Biographies

Dr. Ehsan Noroozinejad is a Senior Researcher at the Urban Transformations Research Centre (UTRC), Western Sydney University, and an AEC consultant, where he specialises in Resilient Construction and Infrastructure. With a wealth of experience, Dr. Noroozinejad previously held a prestigious position at UBC Smart Structures in Canada. He also holds numerous

memberships on committees and commissions, including the FIB, ASCE, MECLA, ASME, ANSHM and many more. Dr. Noroozinejad has authored over 130 indexed journal papers and published seven books on his areas of expertise, which span resilience-based design of structures, digital twins in construction, and reliability engineering, among others.

of technology is alluring, it requires sustained funding—a challenge for many local councils.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND LOCAL COUNCILS

In light of the increasing threats posed by bushfires, the Federal Government and local councils are presented with a dual challenge and opportunity. Addressing the bushfire crisis requires not only immediate action but visionary leadership that anticipates future challenges.

Here are targeted recommendations to help pave the way forward:

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO R&D:

∞ Invest in specialised research centres

∞ Foster collaboration between scientists, tech experts, and forest officers

INTER-COUNCIL COLLABORATIONS:

∞ Centralised knowledge-sharing platforms

∞ Promote the sharing of resources and best practices

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS:

∞ Forge alliances with tech industry leaders and startups

∞ Offer tax breaks, grants, or seed funding for relevant innovations

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

∞ Launch awareness programs and community drills

∞ Empower every citizen to be vigilant and proactive

INFRASTRUCTURE MODERNIZATION:

∞ Upgrade existing systems to integrate the latest technologies

∞ Prioritise communication lines and establish command centres

POLICY DEVELOPMENT:

∞ Draft a comprehensive policy framework detailing all stages from prevention to recovery

∞ Offer a clear and actionable roadmap for all stakeholders

FINANCIAL PROVISIONS:

∞ Earmark-specific funds for bushfire mitigation

∞ Ensure rapid availability of resources in crises

GLOBAL LEARNING:

∞ Engage with international counterparts to glean insights from global best practices

Addressing bushfire threats isn't merely about dousing flames; it's about crafting a future where communities are resilient, environments are protected, and proactive defence becomes a hallmark of governance. As policymakers and community leaders, the onus is on you to weave this safety net. The blueprint is here; the time for decisive action is now.

CALL TO ACTION

In a land as vast and diverse as Australia, where our natural wonders range from the azure Great Barrier Reef to the rugged outback, the recurring challenge of bushfires has long been woven into the nation's narrative.

The escalating intensity and frequency of these fires, driven by factors like climate change, make the case for advanced early detection systems even more pressing. Such systems represent more than just technological feats; they embody the convergence of cutting-edge innovation, judicious governance, and the unwavering commitment of local communities — all unified in the mission to safeguard Australia's unique heritage and spirit.

To our esteemed readers — from researchers delving into the intricacies of fire behaviour in the Australian bush to the diligent council members tasked with the guardianship of our towns and cities and the vigilant citizens who call this great southern land home — each of you plays an irreplaceable role.

Now is the time to rally behind this pivotal cause, fuel the momentum of research and collaboration, and ensure that when we look towards our vast horizons, we see a testament to nature's splendour, not a forewarning of its wrath.

Dr. Aso Hajirasouli is a Lecturer at Western Sydney University. She has diverse experiences ranging from governmental to academic settings, and her research primarily seeks to enhance the relevance of cutting-edge studies in the design and built environment sectors. By emphasising core theories and crafting innovative methodologies, she aims to address pressing challenges with inventive

solutions. Her commendable achievements include securing multiple competitive national CAT 1 grants from esteemed bodies such as the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, CSIRO, and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water. Additionally, she boasts a publication record of roughly 30 high-calibre papers.

TREATING HISTORICAL STRUCTURES WITH EFFICIENCY AND CARE

Heritage and historical structures possess irreplaceable architectural and historical value, making their preservation a matter of cultural importance. When raising, re-levelling and re-supporting these fragile structures, a non-invasive approach is essential. Mainmark’s solutions and technologies offer proven methods for addressing the causes of structural subsidence, giving important buildings a new lease on life, and preserving their historic integrity into the future.

When it comes to treating fragile heritage and historical structures, traditional methods such as underpinning and excavation are invasive, disruptive, and can cause irreparable damage, compromising the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the building.

Delicate historical materials require solutions that minimise the risk of harm by avoiding destructive interventions, ensuring the building’s original features remain intact.

Since 1989, Mainmark has employed non-invasive techniques to treat buildings identified as heritage-listed or situated in World Heritage significant sites. Mainmark’s engineered resin solution, Teretek®, is particularly well-suited to address the causes of structural subsidence.

building commenced operating as a café and gift shop in 2006.

In 2018, due to challenges from highly reactive clay soil and the presence of heritage-listed elm trees with restricted root control measures, the café suffered from differential settlement. This caused structural damage, including a rotated end wall, stress cracks and separation at the openings on the two transverse walls.

As the property owner, the City of Casey engaged Mainmark to assess the 142-year-old site and recommend a remediation solution. The project objective was to correct the rotated end wall and re-level the building, including the raised courtyard.

As a non-invasive technology, Teretek® resin injection does not require excavation. This means that when correcting subsided stone and brick footings, continuity of foundation support is maintained, and there’s no risk of damage to the footing that could occur with stones/bricks dropping into the excavation.

Teretek® can also be employed to improve the ground beneath existing footings prior to an extension being built, enhancing foundation support in preparation for construction works.

Many historical buildings often stand on weak sub-grade soils that may have experienced settlement over time. By providing targeted ground improvement to these soils, Teretek® helps fortify the delicate foundations of historical structures, contributing to their long-term preservation and resilience.

Due to the heritage status of the building and elm trees, the City of Casey needed to feel confident that the solution would not impact the structural integrity of the building or damage the protected trees.

TERETEK® RE-LEVELS HERITAGE CAFÉ IN MELBOURNE

Pioneer Park Café is located within one of the oldest buildings in the Melbourne suburb of Berwick, with parts of the existing structure dating back to 1876. The site was originally a primary school; however, the school closed in 2003, and the

Mainmark employed its Teretek® resin injection solution, utilising its deep-lift application method. This process involves the injection of engineered structural resins beneath sunken sections of the affected structure, filling any voids encountered and compacting suitable or weak soils to maximise ground support. From deeper in the ground, the structure is lifted by the controlled force of the expanding resin.

Teretek® was applied through very precise injection points along the length of the building foundations to both the building and the courtyard retaining wall. This successfully raised the lowest corner of the building by 30mm. The courtyard retaining wall was also lifted 2-3mm, re-aligning it with the pavement slab.

Utilising Mainmark’s Teretek® solution enabled the works to be completed without the need for lengthy excavation works. This ensured minimal impact to the café’s operations while safeguarding the structural integrity of the building and the heritage-listed trees.

80 AND STILL GOING STRONG:

MODERNISING MARYBOROUGH’S WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE

By Kody Cook, Journalist, Council Magazine

Fraser Coast Regional Council has recently completed the modernisation of its 80-year old Aubinville Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), in an effort to ensure that the plant will continue to be reliable and meet the future needs of Maryborough’s growing community.

The works for the $26 million revamping were finally completed in October after four years of construction.

The plant serves more than 23,000 residents as well as commercial and industrial properties connected to the sewage collection system in Maryborough, with the plant receiving 1,856ML of raw sewage for treatment in the 2022/23 financial year.

Key upgrades at the Aubinville STP include:

∞ New boiler, digester jet mixing system, dewatering unit and chemical dosing system

∞ New control room overseeing the entire plant with a new laboratory for testing

∞ Complete refurbishment of the two secondary settling tanks, including the installation of a new sludge pumping station

∞ Upgrade of ladders, stairs, handrails, platforms and walkways to current standards

∞ New raw sewage pumping station and new inlet works to improve screenings and remove materials and grit

∞ New trade waste/septic tanker receival system with a state-of-the-art biological odour treatment unit

In an interview with Council Magazine, Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Executive Manager of Engineering and Technical Services, Trevor Dean, said that the Aubinville STP Upgrade

was predominantly targeted as asset refurbishment, renewal, and improvements to the operability of the plant.

“The works were identified as required to overcome a number of operational deficiencies in the plant,” Mr Dean said.

“These deficiencies were compromising consistency and reliability of effluent quality. The plant also had limited resilience and lacked redundancy throughout the mechanical components.

“As such, the upgrade hasn’t created an overall increase in capacity although provision has been made in the upgrade project to facilitate future capacity increases. Some of the longer age assets in certain areas of the upgrade have been constructed to a higher capacity.”

ENSURING UNINTERRUPTED SERVICE

The Aubinville plant is the sole STP for the City of Maryborough. As such, it needs to be able to continually treat all the raw sewage collected from the city.

“From the outset, all the proposed works needed to be designed and delivered in such a way that the continual operability of the plant was foremost in everyone’s mind and that any works involving interruptions to existing services were planned and coordinated to ensure continuity of service,” Mr Dean said.

Mr Dean said that this included ensuring that there were contingency plans in place that could be implemented when appropriate.

“The Project Management Team worked hand in glove with the STP Operator and assistants to ensure that the operational area was aware of what works were being undertaken and the impact of any project works.

“The Operators and Council’s Mechanical and Electrical Maintenance staff were key stakeholders consulted prior to and during periods where assets were taken out of services as well as during the recommissioning of refurbished and new assets.”

OVERCOMING CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGES

With such an old and vital piece of infrastructure, Council needed to navigate many obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages and more, to ensure a successful project outcome.

“The works were constructed through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and, at one point in the project, required specialist labour to be brought in from other states at a time when Queensland had a hard border,” Mr Dean said.

“This, and shortages caused by the pandemic in services and materials, continued to be a challenge managed by the Project Management Team throughout the latter parts of the project.

“Additionally, the Directors of the Civil Contractor delivering the largest contracts on the project, placed their company into liquidation in March 2022 creating significant additional works for the Project Management Team as well as increasing over all costs to the project, the full magnitude of which exceeded security, retention, and unpaid works held by Fraser Coast Regional Council.

“The demise of the Civil Contractor resulted in a number of disgruntled subcontractors who were financially impacted.

“Despite this, many of these subcontractors were willing to contract directly to Council to complete the unfinished works with a number of different contract models, including a ‘cost plus’ model, required to be adopted by the Project Management Team to achieve completion.”

Mr Dean said that the supplier of the site’s backup generator was also placed in liquidation post-delivery of the generator but prior to installation.

“During installation and commissioning, numerous defects were discovered and needed to be rectified at Council’s cost.

“‘Surprises’ with the actual condition of some of the elements of structures that were being refurbished were also a challenge, with the scope of some of the contracts needing to be varied to ensure that the project benefits could be realised.

“Lastly, the length of the project saw the inevitable Project Management Team personnel changes over the duration of the works which created its own issues with regard to continuity, records and quality assurance documentation management, and overall understanding and appreciation of project history.”

EMBEDDING RESILIENCE

Despite these challenges, Council successfully brought the 80-year STP into the future by building resiliency into the design. Throughout the process, Council was committed to delivering a facility that could sustainably manage waste

while also providing reliable wastewater treatment services for the community.

Mr Dean explained that, as sewage treatment is a designated Environmentally Relevant Activity in the Queensland Environmental Protection Act, Council operates the plant under an Environmental Authority issued by the Queensland Department of Environment and Science.

“While the majority of the effluent generated by the Aubinville STP is beneficially reused through Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Maryborough Effluent Reuse Scheme, there are scenarios where it is necessary to discharge to receiving waters which, for the Aubinville STP, is the Moonaboola (Mary River)” Mr Dean said.

“Additionally, prior to the upgrade, any interruption to electricity supply resulted in the inability for the raw sewage pumping station to operate, with the plant bypassing to the river once the levels in the pump station and upstream network reached the overflow level.

“The new works, which incorporate a plant wide electrical and control system upgrade as well as a backup diesel generator sized to run the whole of the plant, will now operate in times of power loss thereby eliminating bypass events due to power loss.”

Mr Dean said that the new inlet works have been configured to accept wet weather flows which are screened and pass through a hydraulic grit removal system (i.e., partial primary treatment) before volumes exceeding the plants hydraulic and biological capacity are bypassed to the discharge point.

“The plant also has a history of odour issues and complaints. The new raw sewage pump station, liquid waste receival system and inlet works have all foul air extracted and treated through a biotrickling filter. Given the odour generating capacity of these areas, this system has significantly reduced odours at the plant and is protecting the assets from corrosion due to Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S).”

With the years-long works now complete, the Aubinville STP is refurbished with capabilities to deliver sustainable and reliable wastewater services, ready to serve the community of Maryborough for another 80 years.

EXPLORING THE FRONTLINES: A GLIMPSE INTO AUSTRALIA'S WATER TREATMENT HEROES

Coined as the ‘Sunburnt Country’, Australia is a continent where water scarcity and quality closely intertwine with environmental challenges. However, a dedicated legion of professionals stand sentinel on the frontlines of water, wastewater, and desalination treatment plants. These unsung heroes work round-the-clock to secure one of earth's most precious resources – water.

THE GUARDIANS OF CLEAN WATER

The ever-shifting environmental factors in Australia have a profound impact on the clarity, purity, and safety of its waters. From droughts concentrating pollutants to urbanisation's runoff, our water sources are faced with constant challenges.

The efforts of water treatment professionals, often hidden from the public eye, are the backbone of Australia's resilience against the march of climate change and population growth.

However, Australia's water treatment landscape is not immune to the dynamic currents of change. Several trends have emerged, guiding the direction of the industry and shaping the experiences of those on the frontline:

1. SUSTAINABILITY AS A NORTH STAR

Sustainability has woven itself into the everyday fabric of water treatment and infrastructure. The push for reduced energy consumption, lower carbon footprints, and enhanced resource efficiency are now central considerations in plant operations.

SUEZ’s Vice President of Operations and Delivery, Mark Lautre, highlights the critical role that SUEZ-operated treatment plants play in ensuring the most sustainable use of water.

“Our commitment goes beyond today; it's about ensuring water security for generations. For instance, one of SA Water’s wastewater treatment plants in Adelaide – which we operate as the utility’s production and treatment alliance partner – has incorporated advanced aeration control technologies, saving up to 20 per cent on energy and methanol,” Mr Lautre said.

2. DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

The rise of digital technology has revolutionised water treatment plants. Plant operators now interact with digitised systems and smart technologies as much as they do with equipment, making decisions based on predictive insights rather than reactive measures.

Evan Atkinson, General Manager at SUEZ Smart Solutions in Australia and New Zealand, highlights how automation, real-time monitoring, and data analytics have heralded a transformative era for treatment plants.

“Step by step, this transformation leads to real-world benefits including; consistently higher water quality, reduced

wear and tear on our plants, and lower consumption of energy and chemicals. More than this, it’s driving the team to push the bar up on what’s possible for our plants,” Mr Atkinson said.

3. DESALINATION'S RENAISSANCE

In the face of water scarcity, desalination has emerged as a key solution. Desalination plants are like oases in the desert, conjuring fresh water from the saline depths of the sea. Working in these plants requires specialised knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricacies of the reverse osmosis process.

The Victorian Desalination Plant (VDP) is a prime example of this in action. Operated and maintained by ‘Watersure’, a Joint Venture between SUEZ and Ventia, the plant provides Melbourne’s metropolitan area and regional Victoria with a reliable source of up to 150GL per year of high quality drinking water.

4. CLIMATE RESILIENCE

On a macro scale, rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns due to climate change can influence water quality.

Higher temperatures can increase the growth of harmful bacteria, while changes in rainfall can impact water availability and dilution capacities, affecting pollutant concentrations. Intense bushfires release ash, debris, and chemicals into water bodies and waterways, leading to increased turbidity, elevated levels of heavy metals, and reduced water quality.

As Australia grapples with increasingly erratic weather patterns, water treatment plants must build climate-resilience by accounting and adapting for extreme weather events.

LEAVING A PRECIOUS LEGACY

As we turn on our taps without a second thought, let's remember the individuals who work in the background to ensure that the water flowing into our lives is pure and safe.

The frontline of water, wastewater, and desalination treatment plants in Australia embodies both challenges and triumphs. It's a realm where science meets dedication, where innovation meets responsibility. So, the next time you take a sip of clean water, remember the unsung heroes who make it possible.

To learn more about how SUEZ secures reliable water supplies for Australian communities, visit www.suez.com.au

CREATING CYCLES. FOR LIFE.

SUEZ – your trusted partner for circular solutions in water

www.suez.com.au

BIOSOLIDS GASIFICATION TECHNOLOGY PIONEERED IN CITY OF LOGAN

Pioneering technology in the City of Logan is continuing to turn heads in the water and sustainability industries almost two years on from its widely celebrated launch. First switched on in April 2022, Logan City Council’s Australian-first biosolids gasification facility is revolutionising human waste disposal while reducing harmful carbon emissions and saving Council millions of dollars per year.

The gasifier, designed and delivered by the Council’s water business, Logan Water, in partnership with Downer, WSP and Stantec, thermally treats biosolids (human waste) to produce reusable gas, and an environmentally-friendly, charcoal-like product called ‘biochar’.

The innovation has been a game-changer for the growing South East Queensland city, which previously – like many local government areas – expensively disposed of its biosolids by treating, then trucking the waste thousands of kilometres for use on non-edible crops.

The energy-efficient facility, in daily operation at the Loganholme Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), was co-funded by Logan City Council and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

It was named Australia’s premier Infrastructure Project Innovation (Metro) at Ozwater’23, the largest annual water industry event in the southern hemisphere.

It also scooped two accolades at the Australian Water Association’s 2023 Queensland Water Awards, and won bronze in Project Innovation at the International Water Association’s World Water Congress in Copenhagen.

Logan Water staff welcomed more than 400 national and international guests for 29 in-depth tours of the facility in the 2022-2023 financial year.

City of Logan Mayor, Darren Power, said it was no surprise to see the ground breaking wastewater project making waves across Australia, and the world.

“Even in the early stages of this project, we knew we were on to something special with the potential to totally transform our wastewater operations,” Mayor Power said.

“This innovative technology is saving our city millions of dollars while it lowers our emissions and safeguards our natural environment for future generations.

“Most importantly, it’s not something we are keeping to ourselves.

“We are thrilled to see interest in our facility continuing to grow, as governments and businesses across Australia, and elsewhere, explore its applications for their societies.”

WHY IT WORKS

Logan Water’s gasification facility underpins a circular economy model designed to capture, treat and reuse human waste in an efficient and low-impact way. The process, powered by a large solar-array at the Loganholme WWTP, is based on the recycling of renewable heat energy.

First, treated biosolids from the WWTP are pumped into centrifuges for dewatering. The resulting mass is belt-dried with heat (biogas) captured from the gasifiers, to further dehydrate the product.

Dried biosolids are then fed to the gasifiers – tall, vertical cylinders with hearths – and heated to produce the biogas, and the biochar. Considered a highly effective ‘soil conditioner’, biochar is a rich, pelletised material with a wide range of potential applications, particularly in agriculture.

Proof of performance studies conducted by Logan Water have confirmed the destruction of POPs (nano-plastics) in the product, which prevents releasing them back into local food ecosystems.

Of additional significance is the potential for biochar produced at the facility to dramatically improve carbon content in agricultural soil, increasing productivity and crop growth.

The impressive product is part of an Australian Research Centre study analysing the applications of what once was

‘waste’ but is now a marketable material with the potential to help Australia meet its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets.

Each year, Australia produces about 500,000 dry tonnes of biosolid waste. Its processing via gasification, or other similar thermal technologies, could result in thousands of tonnes of carbon enhancing Australian soils annually.

As a potent ameliorant for the bioremediation of degraded soil and a low-grade form of activated carbon, biochar is also of interest to the land care and construction industries, as a potential additive to building materials.

Logan Water’s long-term vision is the expansion of its circular economy model on a larger scale, as the production and sale of biochar creates new opportunities to reuse biosolid waste, and new revenue within the carbon market.

A CLEAN, GREEN FUTURE

Meanwhile, biosolids gasification is also boosting the environmental credentials of Logan City Council, now certified carbon neutral across its operations by the Federal Government’s Climate Active initiative.

During its 20-year lifespan, the gasification facility will play its part in keeping the Council’s climate impact minimal as it is expected to reduce GHG emissions from the Loganholme WWTP by more than 129,000 tonnes.

Logan City Council Infrastructure Chair, Councillor Teresa Lane, said initiatives such as biosolids gasification were increasingly important for the rapidly expanding city, which is expected to be home to more than 600,000 people by 2046.

“As more people choose to live in the City of Logan, the more important it will be to continue to minimise our community’s impact on the environment,” Cr Lane said.

“Reducing emissions in the future will require new strategies as more people rely on local resources.

“Council’s expert staff are already investigating new methods to reduce our climate impact in coming years.”

Coincidentally, Council’s gasification technology will play an important role in its next emission reduction initiative – the repurposing of food and organic waste from local households.

A new Logan City Council study, run in partnership with ARENA and the University of Queensland, is investigating the feasibility of converting food and green organic (FOGO) waste into biomethane gas, biochar and pelletised fertiliser, via the gasification facility.

Logan Water will lead the trial, which if successful, could reduce carbon emissions caused by methane emissions at Council’s landfill sites and provide another important source of bioenergy.

Longer term, the results could support Council’s application to the Queensland Government’s recently announced GROW FOGO funding program.

The program will support local governments in the rollout of new, lime-green lid ‘organics’ bins and kitchen food waste caddies across South East Queensland, as interest and capability in the processing of FOGO waste grows.

Results from Logan City Council’s FOGO feasibility study will be available in 2024. The study is the first of its kind funded under ARENA’s Industrial Energy Transformation Studies program (IETS), which supports pioneering energy projects nationwide.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF COMMUNITIES WITH CLEAN WATER

Clean water can make a huge difference when it comes to improving quality of life for communities. That’s why WaterAid Australia is part of a global organisation that enables the world’s poorest people to gain access to clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene, allowing them to unlock their potential.

Interflow’s long-term commitment to WaterAid Australia is helping to provide clean water and sanitation to those who need it most.

“WaterAid’s work is diverse,” said Mark Trembath, WaterAid Australia’s Corporate Partnerships Manager.

“Over 750 million people across the globe do not have access to daily safe, reliable drinking water, sanitation and good hygiene. We help to change this by providing storage for spring water, by placing walls and a door around open pits to provide privacy and dignity and education around hygiene.”

GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITIES

Interflow’s involvement with WaterAid Australia began in 2004 when Geoff Weaver, Interflow’s Managing Director at the time, was approached by a customer who had recently become a part of WaterAid Australia’s starting initiative.

“He gave me a call saying he wanted to start with a gala ball, and he was looking for companies related to the water industry that might be willing to support WaterAid through this first initiative,” Mr Weaver, now Chair of the Board for Interflow, said.

Mr Weaver would later ring the customer back and give him his commitment to support WaterAid.

“I saw it as a chance for Interflow to give back to communities that don’t have the same opportunities as we did in Australia. We never looked back,” Mr Weaver said.

EMPOWERING LOCAL PEOPLE

Fast forward to 2023, and WaterAid reached out to Interflow and gave them the opportunity to visit Timor-Leste on their first visit back since the pandemic.

Mr Weaver and his wife Sophie, accepted the offer and made the trip to Timor-Leste in August.

“My parents got to visit Timor-Leste in 2013 with WaterAid. So, to take my wife in 2023 was a very special experience for me and my family,” Mr Weaver said.

“Visiting the communities in person is a humbling experience and I’m very grateful to have had the chance.”

What stood out most for Mr Weaver was WaterAid’s model for empowering local people. Communities were heavily involved with the design and build of their new water supplies and took great pride in upgrading their village.

“It was Timor people doing it for Timor people,” Mr Weaver said.

“Visiting villages that have received support from WaterAid, you could clearly see a difference. Instead of walking for hours each day, people could spend that time in other ways that benefited their futures, their families and their communities since water access was right outside their homes.

“This was most notable for the women and children of these communities. The opportunity for education is the example most in front of mind for me.”

On hearing about the work WaterAid does, the first question people tend to ask is ‘how can I help?’ The answer is to support the organisation through one of their regular fundraising initiatives.

“With just under 80 cents in every dollar raised ending up in WaterAid’s programs, we are proud of the fact that donations are able to stretch far in the communities we support,” Mr Trembath said.

“These funds help to make a difference to improving the lives of the local communities.”

To find out how Interflow is empowering communities with access to clean water, visit www.interflow.com.au

We’re here to improve the lives of the communities we serve, for generations to come

REVOLUTIONISING MANHOLE ASSET MANAGEMENT: SECA INTRODUCES 'SHUTOUT' TO THE AUSTRALIAN MARKET

In the realm of municipal infrastructure, where the challenges of underground maintenance are both numerous and complex, SECA has introduced a game-changing solution – Cherne Shutout.

Designed to tackle the intricate issues surrounding manhole maintenance, Shutout is a nontoxic, universal manhole sealant and lubricant that promises to revolutionise the way Australian councils approach their manhole assets.

While the average plumber or homeowner may not be directly involved with manhole maintenance, Shutout becomes indispensable in municipalities where professionals work underground, navigating manholes to access pipes. There is an underscoring call for action, citing a substantial issue around Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) that councils grapple with.

THE HISTORY

TRANSFORMING MANHOLE MAINTENANCE FOR COUNCILS

Shutout's versatility is a standout feature, adhering to dry, wet, hot, and cold surfaces, and providing optimal protection in diverse Australian environmental conditions.

This innovative solution not only reduces inflow but also eases the burden on waterworks contractors and municipalities. Shutout's application requires no additional training, taking only a few minutes for completion, including preparation and clean-up. Its use of a caulking tube makes it easily transportable, seamlessly integrating into regular operations and maintenance activities.

The beginning of Shutout traces back to a forward-thinking sanitary district worker in the USA who applied one of Cherne’s existing products to a manhole, observing a noteworthy reduction in inflow and infiltration. Cherne took this innovative spark and refined the product, giving birth to Shutout.

This groundbreaking solution comes in a convenient caulk tube and is applied in a beaded manner around the manhole's edge – not only does Shutout seal manholes, but it also acts as a lubricant for manhole covers, easing the extraction process. Shutout is meticulously applied to manhole frames, creating a perfect seal that ensures airtight and watertight frames and cover interfaces.

Australian councils will find Shutout's compatibility with most existing manhole installations advantageous, eliminating the need for costly replacements. The product's preventive approach, inhibiting inflow upon initial application, is complemented by its lubricating properties, which significantly decrease the force required to open manhole covers.

This dual functionality addresses critical challenges faced by collection system workers during routine maintenance.

As councils navigate the complexities of manhole asset management, Shutout emerges as a universal, cost-effective, and job-site ready solution. Cherne, the USA distributor's commitment to quality, showcased since 1916, is epitomised in Shutout.

As one of Australia’s leading sewer, storm water and pipe rehabilitation equipment suppliers, SECA has decades of experience in delivering the most cutting-edge solutions in asset management. For more information, visit www.seca.com.au

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CHAMPIONING CIRCULAR ECONOMY:

SUSTAINABILITY VICTORIA BUY RECYCLED CHAMPIONS' SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT

By Kody Cook, Journalist, Council Magazine

Sustainability Victoria (SV) has appointed 23 Buy Recycled Champions from 21 regional and metropolitan councils as part of its Buy Recycled Service, who are responsible for supporting the uptake of sustainable procurement practices by tailoring approaches to their respective council areas.

Appointed in March 2023, the champions will operate in their roles until June 2024.

Participants are provided with opportunities to build capacity, influence, network and share successes within their own councils and beyond.

Champions were selected based on their enthusiasm to improve sustainable procurement outcomes at their council, ability to influence internal sustainable procurement decisions, and their interest in supporting other councils on their sustainable procurement journeys.

The Buy Recycled Champions initiative is part of SV’s Buy Recycled Service, which enables councils to use more recycled materials and products in infrastructure, landscaping, parks and gardens.

BUY RECYCLED CHAMPION: KATHY ZU

One such Champion is Kathy Zu, a Recycling Education Officer from the City of Casey in south-eastern Victoria.

Council Magazine had the opportunity to speak with Ms Zu to learn how she came to the sustainability sector, what issues are inhibiting the uptake of sustainability practices in her community and how she is working with Council to overcome them.

Ms Zu explained that she was initially drawn to the Recycling Education Officer role because of her strong desire to offer more resources and opportunities for communities to engage in sustainable practices, particularly multicultural communities.

“I've always found the sustainability space to be quite overwhelming, in regards to the amount of information that's out there and also the amount of conflicting opinions that are out there,” Ms Zu said.

“I felt the need to not only educate myself further, but also to help make this

information and knowledge more accessible to the residents of the City of Casey. My background in community engagement and Casey, being one of Victoria's most culturally diverse areas, provided a really unique opportunity.

“I strongly believe in the importance of improving the accessibility of information, which stems from my own family background as a first generation Australian.

“Being the first in my family to be born in Australia, I naturally became the translator for my family from a young age, helping them understand all correspondence and any information that came to our home.

“As a result, I gained a strong grasp of some of the challenges that multicultural families face in understanding some essential information and through my current role, I hope to help bridge this gap, ensuring that information about waste and recycling is readily available and accessible to all members of our community.”

TRACKING CASEY’S GREEN SPEND

One of Ms Zu’s responsibilities as a Buy Recycled Champion is to track and record City of Casey’s green spending to understand where Council has undertaken sustainable procurement

and what opportunities there are for future projects.

Ms Zu explained how Council collects data by reviewing all of the purchases made in the previous financial year.

“Firstly, we identify any expenditures related to green initiatives, products or services. We also actively talk to other departments within the council and hear about their noteworthy green achievements where they have incorporated sustainability in their projects,” Ms Zu said.

“We make sure these wins are celebrated, sharing through Council channels and social media, where it's appropriate.

“We have four main categories when it comes to what is considered green spending.

“Firstly there are green products, so anything that promotes sustainability, reusable products, things purchased secondhand or refurbished, and items made from recycled materials.

“Secondly, there are green services, which includes any services that have had a positive impact on the environment, or that are conserving natural resources or reducing waste.

“Thirdly there is social purchasing, where the spending is driven by a public or community cause. And lastly, energy saving, which inlcudes any expenditures aimed at conserving electricity or gas.”

INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY IN THE GREEN SPACE

Ms Zu said that one of the biggest challenges preventing all community members from recycling and embracing sustainable choices is the inconsistency of information available to them.

“Historically, waste and recycling have been managed at a local government level, which has resulted in varying approaches, contracts, and

communication about what can or cannot go into our kerbside bins.

“This inconsistency makes it difficult for people to know what the correct recycling guidelines are.

“Additionally, the information itself can be quite complex. For example, cardboard we know is recyclable, but liquid paperboard, which is used in long life drink containers, which might appear to be cardboard and recyclable, is notoriously challenging to recycle because of its layers of plastic and foil in there.

“There's also no regulation on having the recyclable triangle on products. We have recycling symbols on items that can't actually be recycled, which adds to the confusion and also contaminates our waste streams as well.”

Ms Zu said that she is excited that the Victorian Government is looking to standardise the waste and recycling list across all parts of Victoria.

“It's going to be a great start to not only improving people's recycling, but also helping refuel their confidence in the sector as well.

“We do have a waste guide that's updated every year, explaining what can or cannot go into each bin, as well as including bin collection days.

“We also have an online waste directory where people can just type in the item that they're interested in disposing of, and it'll tell them the best local option for that. And we also run lots of community programs out there.”

LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE

When asked what she wanted for the future of the City of Casey, Ms Zu said that she would love for the area to become a model of sustainability and the circular economy.

“I envision a community where reusables and refill stations are the norm, and where people prioritise buying high quality, durable products that last longer. Also where repair becomes a more affordable and accessible option rather than people just replacing their broken items with a new item again.

“So in this vision, we'll be reducing waste, but also promoting a culture of responsible consumption, and ultimately it'll help make Casey a greener and more resilient city.”

FUSING ART AND ENGINEERING TO CREATE A UNIQUE PLAYGROUND

By Trevor Smith, Senior Principal Engineering Geologist, Tonkin + Taylor

Art and engineering has united in Melbourne to create a captivating 'risky' playground. This innovative space, born from a collaboration between artist Mike Hewson and geotechnical engineers in Australia, has transformed an underdeveloped urban area into a one-of-a-kind play area for children.

New Zealand artist, Mike Hewson, has designed a public playground in Melbourne named ‘Rocks on Wheels’, which features 24 massive rough-hewn bluestone boulders with wheels attached, giving the illusion that they can move.

Nicknamed ‘Rolling Rocks’, the Southbank Boulevard Play Space project showcases the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration to make a positive impact on communities.

ENCOURAGING EXPERIMENTATION

The playground is intended to look risky, with slides, swings and monkey bars all connected around the boulders without any handrails or platforms. Despite its haphazard appearance, the playground is safe and built to encourage ‘risk-play’, pushing children to explore and experiment.

While the floor around the boulders resembles the bluestone pavers used across Melbourne’s public spaces and walkways, it is actually made of soft-fall matting that is made to look like stone.

Having completed five large-scale public art commissions in Australia, many of them being sculpture park playgrounds, Mr Hewson’s aim is to pioneer new ways to merge conceptual art projects into the public realm.

BRINGING THE VISION TO LIFE

Mr Hewson was inspired by a 1960s Hollywood set photo featuring fake rocks on skates. With the support of the City of Melbourne, he aimed to bring this concept to life in the form of an innovative playground in South Melbourne.

To help bring Mr Hewson's vision to fruition, Tonkin + Taylor was enlisted to offer its engineering expertise.

Tonkin + Taylor visited the quarry to procure the boulders, selecting those with lower susceptibility to fracturing, and provided guidance on the placement of rock bolts to reduce the potential for fractures.

This technical support was crucial to ensure the playground was both safe and aesthetically pleasing, while also achieving Mr Hewson’s vision.

SEAMLESS COLLABORATION

Usually, during the landscape design process, the original concept often gets changed and compromised as it goes from design to construction.

However, through collaboration, Mr Hewson was involved in every part of the project. With Tonkin + Taylor’s help, the team could engineer the structure’s most challenging features, including a water fountain made of building offcasts.

This project not only provided a creative outlet for Mr Hewson, but also served as a unique and enjoyable challenge for the engineers at Tonkin + Taylor.

The boulders are expertly engineered into the ground, providing a safe and unique play environment for children. The success of this project can be attributed to the seamless collaboration between Hewson, Tonkin + Taylor, and the City of Melbourne and other consultants.

The project highlights the incredible possibilities that arise when art and engineering come together. Ultimately, the Rolling Rocks playground stands as a symbol of interdisciplinary collaboration and its potential to make a positive impact on communities.

If your organisation is looking to find creative solutions for engineering challenges, contact the experienced team at Tonkin + Taylor. Visit their website www.tonkintaylor.com.au or call 03 9863 8686

Complex challenges into sustainable solutions

As a specialist provider of engineering and environmental services, Tonkin + Taylor brings your project ambitions to life.

We understand the unique challenges that Councils face, and we offer a variety of resources and services that can help you address your challenges.

We are committed to supporting the communities that we serve. We believe that everyone deserves to live in a healthy and sustainable environment, and we are proud to play a role in making that happen.

Together we create and sustain a better world.

Find out more at...

www.tonkintaylor.com.au

COLOURING THE CITY: PUBLIC ART PLAN WYNDHAM’S DECADE-LONG

As Australia’s cities and suburbs continue to expand and change, creating vibrant communities that foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents becomes increasingly important. One way to achieve this is through public art, which not only livens up spaces but invites residents to engage and connect with their surroundings. With a ten-year public art plan underway, Wyndham City Council is aiming to transform the city's identity while providing opportunities for local artists to contribute to the cultural tapestry of the community.

Over the next ten years, Wyndham City Council plans to develop a worldclass public art program, delivering dynamic and contemporary public art in a creative celebration of place, culture and environment to its diverse community.

The Wyndham Public Art Plan 20222032 was formally adopted in September 2022, and a spokesperson for the City said its first year of implementation has already seen a number of successes.

One of the first major commissions initiated under the plan received the 2023 LGPro Award for Diversity and Inclusion. That project was the creation of ‘Voice of the Land, Voice of the People, Voice of our Heart, Voice of Mother – Mother Tongue’ – led by Gunditjmara artist Dr Vicki Couzens.

“Developed through collaboration with local multicultural artists from the Bunurong, African Diaspora, Bangla, Chin, Karen, Karenni, Maori, Indian and Sikh communities, Couzens worked to incorporate key visual elements from each culture into the final artwork,” the spokesperson said.

“The project was initiated by the Victorian Bangladeshi Community Foundation (VBCF) who approached Wyndham City to discuss its desire for a Shaheed Minar Monument to be located in Wyndham.

“Following discussions with the VBCF and other stakeholders, it was agreed that it was important to expand the concept of the project to one that engaged with the broad theme of the preservation of Mother Language, and representation of language diversity for all cultures in Wyndham.”

SHAPING A SHARED IDENTITY

Wyndham is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, with the population forecast to increase by 55.7 per cent between 2023 and 20411. With a significant influx of new residents, public art can foster a sense of community, celebrate and acknowledge different cultures and help meet the demand for well-designed public spaces.

The Council spokesperson said public art plays an important role in the ongoing development of Wyndham City.

“Public art provides a way to bring people together and build connections within our diverse community. It is the essence of our city and livens up public spaces.

“It also plays an important part in enhancing our city’s identity. The creation and visual changes that the program makes to the city generates

vibrancy that contributes to cultural, economic life and builds civic pride.”

While rapid population growth often brings challenges related to increased density and changing urban landscapes, thoughtfully planned public art projects can help provide spaces for reflection, recreation and community interaction.

The commissioning of significant temporary and permanent public art is also playing a significant role in transforming the City’s identity and reputation to visitors. Visually appealing public artworks can be magnets for tourism, resulting in increased foot traffic to local businesses, generating revenue and contributing to economic growth.

“The role of public art in public spaces is to create spaces of wonder, intrigue, colour, surprise and beauty for the greater community who use and access the space.

Frog Dreaming Maree Clarke, Dr Vicki Couzens & Jeph

“As the program matures, we are seeing the positive impact of the program on tourism and visitor attraction.”

Public art programs can be thoughtprovoking, encouraging discussion, debate and new perspectives. For some councils, such programs might be accompanied by concerns about whether the commissioned artwork will resonate with a broad spectrum of residents and visitors.

“Public art is highly subjective and open to interpretation, yet the overwhelming response to the work in this space is one of appreciation and positivity.”

Council’s Public Art Collection is made up of permanent public artworks located in public spaces, pop-up artworks, temporary installations and projects.

The Wyndham Public Art Plan 20222032 was produced following extensive research, consultation and global benchmarking to understand priorities and look for opportunities. This included consultation with public art consultants T Projects.

“Our vision is to support and develop a public art collection of quality and regional significance,” the spokesperson said.

“To achieve our vision to develop a world class public art program we need a holistic approach through consultation, artist development, communication, education, engagement, research and evaluation.”

EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL ARTISTS

One of the pillars of the decadelong art plan is to develop public art

opportunities for local artists through a range of initiatives including permanent and temporary commissions and professional development.

“Wyndham City is committed to developing, supporting and encouraging creative communities across Wyndham and has a range of programs and funding available to assist local artists.

“In the coming year a professional development mentoring program will be rolled out to support artists to continue to develop their skills in transitioning from studio and gallery into public spaces.”

All commissioning opportunities include one-on-one support and information sessions to encourage local participation.

In the program’s first year of implementation, one local artist was chosen to deliver a temporary lightbased installation, and another has been commissioned for a major railway station rejuvenation project funded by program partner PTV. In addition to these, a further six artists were mentored through a public art project led by curators at Deakin University.

“Wyndham City’s Arts and Culture programs support local artists through a range of initiatives from hiring local artists and creatives for events and arts programs, free professional development workshops, direct grants to artists, commissions to artists, the provision of temporary art spaces and many other projects,” the spokesperson said.

When considering artists for specific areas or works, Wyndham City takes

into account a range of considerations including timelines, cost, previous experience, the aesthetics of the space and avoiding disruptions to local business.

Commissions for public art are appointed through several processes depending on the scale and cost of the project and artist fee.

Local artists are encouraged to apply for open call and expression of interest opportunities as well as considered and included in invitation and shortlist selection processes.

PROMOTING DIVERSITY AND UNIFICATION

“Public art is central to the ongoing development of Wyndham as an inspiring, inclusive, diverse, effervescent, artistic and engaged City,” the spokesperson said.

“Council, through consultation and through considered curation of the program, balances a need to provide unique and cultural representation reflecting our diverse community with a need to provide unifying and universal themes.”

The spokesperson said this ethos is reflected in the recent commissioning of a new major mural of scale by First Nations artist Tommy Day. The vibrant colourful mural titled Mooroop Yarkeen, which translates to ‘Spirit Dreaming’ will transform the city skyline with depictions of the Werribee River, habitat, and cultural heritage, all inter-connecting themes of Werribee and its First Nations’ history.

The four curatorial themes selected for the Wyndham program are:

∞ Foregrounding

∞ Localism

∞ Habitat

∞ Futurism

These themes will remain in place for the lifespan of the plan, and are applied across all arts and culture programs. This approach is informed by consultation, research and benchmarking against global and national best practice.

However, a review will be conducted every three years to track what themes may need more focus and overall impact of the program. This reflects Council’s commitment to understanding the evolving needs of the Wyndham City community and ensures the public art commissioned under the program will continue to resonate with the community for years to come.

Taking Flight David “Meggs” Hooke

HOW POCKET PARKS ARE ENLIVENING URBAN CENTRES LESS IS MORE:

By Stephanie Nestor, Assistant Editor, Council Magazine

As increased density in urban centres leads to low land availability, it can be difficult for councils to find vacant land that can be used as dedicated recreational space. However, through the idea of pocket parks, University of New South Wales (UNSW) researchers are working with councils to find ways to repurpose underused land by setting up green oases in cities.

Decades ago, large plots of land could be set aside for parks, but now that Australia’s urban centres are highly developed, there is little room for councils to develop large public squares. Even though other infrastructure projects may take priority over a park, it is vital for urban residents to have access to greenery, meeting spaces and playgrounds.

That’s why UNSW researchers believe the best approach for councils is to start thinking small with pocket parks.

Pocket parks create an opportunity for local governments to repurpose underutilised land without undertaking large-scale

redevelopment, such as replacing a dilapidated building or reclaiming a portion of road, while still providing public space.

Despite their small size, these pocket parks can make a big difference for urban communities, as they take up minimal space, being no bigger than a few hundred square metres, yet can enhance the quality of life for residents by offering just the right amenities in a simple yet elegant way.

IT’S ALL ABOUT PROXIMITY

When a city has little vacant land left, it's important to make use of every square metre. Pocket parks offer a creative way for councils to approach planning when faced with overdevelopment and increasing populations.

Senior Lecturer in Landscape Architecture and Urban Design from the School of Built Environment at UNSW, Dr Mike Harris, said there are three main ideas behind pocket parks: population growth, accessibility and environmental protection.

“One reason is just about providing more public space in places where there's an increase in population, which is important in parts of cities that are densifying, particularly inner suburbs of capital cities and many smaller cities.

“Another reason is that there's more people coming in, but we're not getting any more public space. These pocket parks, depending on how they're done, are a way to increase public space and make it more accessible.

“So often now, local governments and state governments look at metrics around a whole range of urban qualities, and one of them is accessibility to open space. If you go through a neighbourhood and you place smaller public spaces across a district instead of having one big park in some other location, it means that a lot more people can be in close proximity to a public space, a very short walk from their home.

“The third reason has to do with the environmental side of things. A pocket park gives you the ability to do more stormwater cleaning or increase canopy cover, which then goes on to improve a whole range of environmental metrics and livability standards.”

FINDING ROOM IN THE CITY

More pocket parks are popping up in densely populated urban areas around Australia, such as Sydney’s inner west and eastern suburbs, in order to make sure communities have access to sitting areas, play equipment, shade and greenery. Our surveys show the most important things for residents are places to sit and socialise.

For many councils, developing pocket parks has encouraged planning teams to make use of every square metre of land available.

Previously, councils have repurposed dilapidated houses or required new large developments to provide some form of public space, but such strategies have become too expensive as real estate prices increase and there are fewer opportunities to negotiate with large developments.

Dr Harris said the biggest opportunity for councils to find room for public space is in streets.

“In urban centres, without public space at all, you're only left with footpaths,” Dr Harris said.

“While the footpath has historically played a really important role in social exchange, commerce, and the life of the city, a lot of our city centres in Australia actually didn't factor in public space when the subdivisions were done.

“One of the biggest opportunities for pocket parks is re-appropriating road space. You can't build a meeting place or a playground on a footpath, so repurposing road space is a way we can find more public space, and that's critical in urban centres.”

SPACE TO COME TOGETHER

Given their small size, these parks can be spread out and tailored to suit specific purposes, whether it be extra seating near shops, play equipment for children in residential areas or more greenery among apartments.

“These are places where people can meet and hang out, where you can just go and sit on a bench and be part of society,” Dr Harris said.

“It's really important to realise that the purpose of public space is for people to participate in and be part of the urban life of society where they are. Councils really have the ability to tailor them to a specific context, whether the area is residential or a town centre with shops.

“Sometimes they’re just places to sit down. It's pretty important for people, especially for elderly or parents with a

baby, to be able just to have these opportunities to sit down while walking or shopping.”

THINKING CREATIVELY ABOUT PLANNING

With pocket parks scattered around a city, there are more opportunities for residents to stay active and participate in society, as opposed to just having a single large park in one area. Developing these miniature spaces encourages councils to think creatively and practically about public planning, bringing together community needs and local government teams.

Dr Harris said pockets parks offer councils an opportunity to design public spaces that are small but effective.

“The one thing I would encourage councils to do is actually stop and take a survey of what opportunities are out there,” Dr Harris said.

“There's a lot of redundant traffic spaces like slip lanes that are just not necessary. There are projects underway now where they're closing a slip lane around a corner and developing a public space over the slip lane and pedestrian island.”

Additionally, utilising street space not only offers a creative approach to developing public recreational spaces, but also helps councils with traffic management.

“Councils are always dealing with traffic management, particularly how to improve pedestrian and cyclist management, and understanding the impacts of traffic on communities. Pocket parks can address traffic concerns by closing some roads and lowering overall traffic volume, making the street safer for everyone, especially children.” Dr Harris said.

“We should be thinking about streets that don’t have critical traffic functions in different ways that are more about being place-based and social spaces.

“This idea of a pocket park dovetails into that strategy nicely as it encourages movement and place frameworks, bringing together the often separated areas of transport and planning, which should be really connected, in a much more holistic way.”

As cities continue to expand into the future, making room, even if it be small spaces, for parks can change how councils approach planning, traffic management and improving liveability for urban residents.

Making sure people can enjoy public outdoor spaces means preventing incidents of injury, loss or harm that would otherwise ruin a day of fun.

According to Surf Life Saving Australia, there were 54 deaths as a result of drowning between December 2022 and March 2023, with all of them occurring either at an unpatrolled area, outside patrol hours, or outside the red and yellow flags.1

For Australian surveillance and security experts Spectur, leaving a site unmonitored puts the public at risk, which is why they’ve developed security

ARE YOUR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES SUMMER READY?

While the summer months bring the perfect weather for a day out at the beach, they also bring with them plenty of dangers. When public recreational spaces are left unmonitored, it can be hard to guarantee safety for communities. However, with smart emergency response technology in place, councils can ensure their facilities are ready for summer.

solutions to help enhance safety at outdoor recreational spaces.

KEEPING BEACHES SAFE

There are many things that can go wrong at the beach, including injuries, drownings, shark attacks and medical episodes. Setting up emergency response beacons can ensure even when there are no lifeguards available or present onsite, there is still something on the lookout for danger.

With Spectur’s emergency response beacons (ERBs), lifeguards can ensure safety throughout summer to protect beachgoers, surfers and swimmers. These ERBs have the ability to detect nearby tagged sharks and broadcast evacuation orders, with bright lights and voice instructions audible at up to 400m from shore.

Utilising artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse imagery, Spectur’s cameras can also alert lifeguards to people drowning in the waters, such as those suffering from a sudden medical episode or fisherman swept off the rocks, ensuring help can reach them as soon as possible.

SECURING CAMPSITES

While people going camping want to escape the hustle-and-bustle of the city, staying at a campsite where there is a limited or no mobile or internet connection can leave people stranded when something goes wrong.

Spectur’s platforms are designed to function off-the-grid, with self-contained intelligent solar and battery-powered AI surveillance, safety, warning and communication solutions that sense,

think and act autonomously to address safety issues.

Spectur’s solution can alert the public to danger, allows camp managers to remotely view and assess conditions, and provides fast access to emergency services.

These systems are connected to the internet via mobile networks and amplified with antennae, or in extreme cases via satellite, for locations with no mobile coverage at all.

Additionally, each camera platform can be easily moved to wherever they are needed by a single person with a van, making them ideal for temporary, as well as long-term, installations.

EYES ON THE WATER

ERBs can also be deployed at lakes, dams and other water-based recreational facilities to prevent accidents and damage to assets by complementing existing traditional security and monitoring.

Sensors can be integrated with Spectur platforms for onsite environmental monitoring of water and air quality, water levels, contamination, salinity and more.

With a live feed available, staff can keep an eye out for danger even when they are not onsite. Also with AI-enabled security camera feeds, Spectur systems can actively detect threats and alert staff to take action straight away.

By combining Spectur’s solutions with more traditional risk prevention, councils can ensure a truly safe and fun summer season for their communities.

BRINGING

HISTORIC RAIL

INFRASTRUCTURE BACK TO LIFE

A monumental restoration effort has breathed new life into historic railway infrastructure in the Tweed Shire, with construction of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) reviving and preserving 26 ageing railway bridges and 574m of railway tunnel.

The 24km trail follows the Tweed region’s historic rail corridor from the central hub of Murwillumbah to the southern village of Crabbes Creek, weaving through lush landscapes, charming towns and, significantly, restored bridges and tunnels – some built more than a century ago.

The $14.5 million project was delivered and managed by Tweed Shire Council, in partnership with NSW Public Works, construction company Hazell Bros and heritage specialists Urbis.

In recent years, the Tweed region has been devastated by floods, bushfires and droughts, but this new trail offers a chance for the local communities to bounce back, with recreational, economic and tourism opportunities along the route.

COMMITMENT TO PRESERVATION

The project team’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of the trail has already been acknowledged, taking out first place in the Conservation –Landscape category at the prestigious National Trust Heritage Awards in May 2023.

The award underscores the success of the Tweed section of the Rail Trail, which has attracted more than 108,000 visitors since its opening on 1 March 2023.

NRRT Project Director, Iain Lonsdale, said the Rail Trail’s win in the Conservation – Landscape category was testament to the dedication invested in preserving and showcasing the rail, natural and cultural heritage aspects of the NRRT.

“This recognition highlights our commitment to preserving and celebrating the diverse cultural and rail heritage of the Tweed region,” Mr Lonsdale said.

“The Rail Trail was recognised for several key heritage components. Notably, it showcased a strong commitment to cultural heritage by integrating a range of Aboriginal stories along the trail, paying homage to and celebrating the heritage of the trail, villages and region.

“Another notable heritage component is the rail heritage signage strategically placed along the trail, providing informative insights into the region's rail history and its enduring significance.”

REJUVENATING HISTORY

Left vacant and abandoned since 2004, the State heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station was also lovingly rejuvenated, restoring its captivating charm and historical features.

Restoration of the trail’s tunnels and bridges stands as one of the largest heritage components of the project. Out of a total of 26 bridges, 16 were meticulously restored for Rail Trail users to traverse, while ten were bypassed and retained for their inherent heritage value.

The Rail Trail also features two tunnels—the Burringbar Range Tunnel, spanning an impressive 524m and showcasing

the habitat of microbats and glow worms, and the Hulls Road Tunnel, measuring 50m in length.

NSW Public Works Project Manager, North Coast Region, Clint Nittolo, who helped manage the project, said construction and restoration of the bridges and tunnels was of particular importance to the job.

"Construction of the Tweed section of the NRRT was the result of a collaboration between Tweed Shire Council, NSW Public Works, Urbis and Hazell Bros’ construction teams,” Mr Nittolo said.

“Our project's intention, from concept stage, was to maximise the opportunity for an elegant and efficient design by incorporating existing infrastructure where possible.

“After thorough assessment and reporting on the condition of bridges along the trail, we chose to utilise the existing bridge substructures wherever possible, including timber piles and pile caps, only replacing the superstructure as part of the project works.”

RESPONSIBLE HERITAGE RESTORATION

The restoration process was complex, as some bridges had an American-inspired steel through-truss design, most notably the Dunbible Creek Bridge. Works took five months and required consultation from leading steel treatment experts, including the team behind the steel preservation treatment of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

“Utilising the existing structures limited the need for extensive construction materials, plant and personnel and also reduced project capital costs,” Mr Nittolo said.

“We also removed and replaced steel protection on existing steel bridges. Some bridges required sandblasting to remove existing lead-based paint protection, necessitating significant environmental and health and safety controls, as well as temporary scaffolding and encapsulation.

“A standout example was the heritage-listed Dunbible Creek Bridge, where the removal of lead-contaminated coatings and the application of a new paint system extended the bridge's design life by another century.

“A small number of bridges were bypassed but remain in place along the trail as significant landmark features. Their decayed condition provides a stark contrast to those that have been restored which highlights the significant restoration work that went into this project.”

Mr Nittolo said minimal work was undertaken on the trail’s railway tunnels, constructed in 1894, to preserve their history.

“The Burringbar Range Tunnel is one of the longest in New South Wales at 524m in length. It was important to ensure this tunnel and the Hulls Road Tunnel (50m long) retained their original material and form.

“Lighting was not introduced to help preserve the habitat of local glow worms and microbats. To increase public safety, a hard-packed gravel surface was established, and reflectors also installed along the edges of tunnel walls.”

GALVANISING SUCCESS

Mr Nittolo said the restoration journey was met with some obstacles that threatened to derail the project, including the 2022 floods. However, these setbacks ultimately galvanised team resolve and contributed to the project’s success.

"Some bridges presented unforeseen issues, including termite damage and unsuitable abutments,” Mr Nittolo said.

“As a result, we needed to either replace these elements or design and construct abutment extensions to meet design intent. When we installed new timber bridges and, more specifically, abutment retaining walls, we took measures to mitigate the risk of termites affecting the new structures.”

Heavy rain at times meant the project also faced water damage to unsealed tunnel paths, with the team forced to clear drainage paths and use a polymer product to prevent erosion.

“The heavy rainfall event in February 2022 was a significant obstacle, causing record flooding that not only inundated parts of the project, but also thousands of homes in the Northern Rivers region,” Mr Nittolo said.

“We decided to pause the project for six weeks to assist in kerbside clean-up and minor emergency restoration works, which helped our teams form stronger bonds and ultimately contributed to the project’s success.”

BACK ON TRACK

Since the Rail Trail's opening in March, the Tweed has hosted 108,829 trail guests – averaging 16,329 visitors per month, 3,726 people per week or 532 people daily.

With such great numbers, plenty of people are taking advantage of what the NRRT has to offer.

Tweed Shire Council Manager Destination, Communications and Customer Service, Tiffany Stodart, said the Rail Trail provides a smorgasbord of recreational activities for residents and visitors.

“While Rail Trail users can enjoy walking, hiking, trail running and cycling on the trail, there are a variety of additional ways to enjoy the Tweed’s newest major recreational attraction,” Ms Stodart said.

“The Rail Trail passes through natural areas, making them excellent spots for bird watching and wildlife observation and some amazing vistas of Wollumbin/Mt Warning.

“This is in addition to the many local experiences on offer along the trail including farm stays, picnics, cafes, wine and cheese tasting, local farms and produce stalls, art, printmaking and much more. The Rail Trail also offers a connection point to visit the must-see Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre to complement the experience.”

Ms Stodart said the Rail Trail had already demonstrated significant benefits for the local community and economy.

“The Rail Trail attracts visitors from all over Australia and that has enormous positive impacts for the Tweed,” Mr Stodart said.

"These include economic growth for local businesses, job opportunities, promoting an active lifestyle, contributing to environmental preservation and providing an eco-friendly means of transportation.”

The Tweed section of the NRRT forms the first section of what will be a 132km trail, connecting the Tweed with Byron Shire, Lismore and Casino.

Funding for the Tweed section of the NRRT was provided by the Federal Government, under its Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Package Fund, and the New South Wales Government under the Restart NSW fund.

By restoring these heritage features, the NRRT has become an asset for the local community to attract visitors and keep people active, while also educating the public about the history and biodiversity of the region.

TRANSFORMING MELBOURNE WITH A WORLD-CLASS WATERFRONT OF PARKS AND PROMENADES

In each edition of Council Magazine we choose one local government from across Australia to shine a spotlight on. This edition, we focus on the City of Melbourne and its Greenline Project, a globally-significant riverfront development, which is set to inject $1 billion into Melbourne’s economy, as early works begin on a transformation of the Yarra River – Birrarung.

The City of Melbourne’s Greenline Project will create 4km of interconnected promenades, parks, open spaces, native plantings, cultural activations and environmental renewal between Birrarung Marr and the Bolte Bridge. It will be Melbourne’s largest green space and will have a strong focus on Traditional Owner culture and heritage.

City of Melbourne Lord Mayor, Sally Capp, said the transformation of the river’s north bank would have an unequivocally positive impact on the city.

“The Yarra River – Birrarung is one of Melbourne’s most culturally and environmentally significant landmarks, and we’re working with our community to ensure it continues to be a place for all people,” Lord Mayor Capp said.

TRANSFORMING THE RIVERFRONT

The project will be guided by a Master Plan, developed by a group of design consultants led by Aspect Studios and TCL, which will be finalised and released later this year following a recent consultation phase.

“In partnership with award-winning landscape architecture and design experts, we’ve crafted an incredible vision for what the Greenline Project could look like – with stunning boardwalks, event spaces, native vegetation, and outdoor dining,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.

“The Greenline Project will transform the north bank of the Yarra River – Birrarung into a globally-significant community space – securing thousands of jobs, attracting waves of new visitors, injecting millions of dollars into our economy, and delivering biodiversity and wellbeing legacies for Melbourne.”

The transformation is expected to create more than 3,400 jobs during construction, more than 6,400 ongoing jobs by 2042, and attract more than 1.1 million additional visitors to the city every year. For every $1 invested, the project will return $3.29 in value to the community.

A WORLD-CLASS ATTRACTION

The draft Master Plan details the vision and design for five interconnected precincts – featuring lush waterfront destinations, spaces for events and community gathering, picturesque new boardwalks, 6m-wide promenades, new native habitats and cultural activations.

Council’s City Transport, Infrastructure and Operations portfolio deputy lead, Councillor Davydd Griffiths, said the

Greenline Project would be a chance to deliver a stunning waterfront together with major economic benefits.

“We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a worldclass river precinct in the heart of Melbourne which will attract more visitors and investment to our city,” Cr Griffiths said.

“Our draft Master Plan design focuses on environment, culture, place and connection – mapping out an exciting project that will deliver significant benefits for Melbourne’s long-term future.”

Design ideas for each precinct include:

BIRRARUNG MARR PRECINCT (BIRRARUNG MARR, FEDERATION VAULTS, FLINDERS WALK)

∞ Cultural event and performance spaces to celebrate Melbourne’s Aboriginal history and multiculturalism

∞ An expanded riverside promenade, with greater views of the river and Southbank that will boost visitation

∞ Terraced steps for enhanced riverside public space and dining experiences

∞ New pathways to connect the CBD to the sports and entertainment precinct

∞ Australian native plantings at the river’s edge to promote improved river health and biodiversity

THE FALLS PRECINCT (SANDRIDGE BRIDGE, BANANA ALLEY VAULTS, TURNING BASIN, ENTERPRIZE PARK)

∞ New public open space around the Sandridge Bridge to promote health and wellbeing

∞ An ecological river’s edge and floating pontoons that will focus on native plantings and sustainability

∞ Upgrades to Enterprize Park and new habitats for local wildlife

∞ Enhanced connections with the river and habitat creation at Banana Alley promenade

RIVER PARK PRECINCT (BATMAN PARK)

∞ Generous open space and lawns for play, exercise, social activities and cultural events to encourage community gatherings and wellbeing

∞ A new accessible play space with nearby cafés

∞ Riverside areas to encourage water-based uses including fishing and boating

∞ New activities space under the Flinders Street viaduct

∞ Large ecology site, habitat creation and significant indigenous botanical garden

MARITIME PRECINCT (CROWNE PLAZA, SEAFARERS RIVER FRONTAGE)

∞ New riverside promenade at Crown Plaza to facilitate new public spaces and waterside dining experiences that will attract ongoing tourism and visitation

∞ Increased public space, including small-scale decks over the river

∞ Improved boating access and amenities

∞ Educational installations and play-based learning activities to encourage exploration of maritime history that will provide a valuable learning resource for our community

SALTWATER WHARF PRECINCT (COLLINS WHARF PARK, COLLINS STREET AND NORTH WHARF ROAD RIVER FRONTAGE)

∞ New parkland with an ecological focus at North Wharf, highlighting sustainability in the city

∞ Improved boating and fishing access and amenities, contributing to a growing and vibrant commercial precinct

∞ Raised waterfront platforms and increased public space and promenades

∞ New boardwalks and seating to attract more riverside recreation with potential for a new river punt to Fishermans Bend and New Quay

LOOKING AHEAD

The draft Master Plan has been informed by extensive stakeholder and community consultation – including surveys, pop-ups, workshops and walking tours of the site.

Meanwhile, early works to develop this first site of the Greenline Project will begin later this year, with a contractor appointed to deliver the first stage.

Symal Infrastructure will work with the City of Melbourne to complete Site 1 of the Birrarung Marr precinct, kick-starting the city-shaping development of the north bank of the Yarra River – Birrarung.

The leading contracting business has a strong track record across a range of major infrastructure, landscaping, streetscape, bridge and water projects.

Site 1 will form part of the Birrarung Marr precinct, transforming the river’s edge from Batman Avenue to the

eastern edge of Federation Square at ArtPlay – with 450m of new boardwalks, viewpoints and thriving green spaces for play and recreation.

Lord Mayor Capp said the works would pave the way forward for the entire Greenline Project.

“Birrarung Marr will be the stunning entry point to the Greenline Project – delivering a sublime riverfront experience with lush green spaces to bring people together," Lord Mayor Capp said.

“These works will set the tone for the project – creating a beautiful entry point to the Greenline Project where you can listen out for wildlife, take in expanded views along the river and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s cultural heritage and buzzing arts scene.”

This stage of works will create three contemporary spaces with the Birrarung Marr precinct:

∞ The River Edge – the entrance to the Greenline Project, providing extensive pathways, new habitat for wildlife and lush green areas for play and recreation

∞ The Lookout – an important place for Wurundjeri Woiwurrung cultural celebrations, featuring an enhanced lookout along the river, additional seating and new plantings

∞ The Fig Tree Boardwalk – creating a peaceful, shaded space for art, storytelling and nature with a suspended tree-lined platform and new seating

Cr Griffiths said beginning this first section was a significant milestone in the delivery of the city-shaping project.

“Revitalising the north bank of the Yarra River – Birrarung starts here, and in years to come we can expect more than a million more visitors will enjoy new connected parks, cultural activities and riverfront dining spaces,” Cr Griffiths said.

Detailed design and early investigative works for Site 1 are expected to begin later this year, with major construction to follow in 2024. Two additional sites will complete the Birrarung Marr precinct at later stages of the Greenline Project.

The design for Site 1 is based on the precinct’s concept plan, which was developed in consultation with the community last year.

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