Council News Issue No: 100!
WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
Weekly information from us to you
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 25 JUNE 2016
Council News
Council News
School holiday fun
Book Week 2014
WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
Issue 1
Weekly information from us to you
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 5 JULY 2014
Get out of town these school holidays and check
WagaggagWaWStory Coat. Go on a journey with the gaggagWaMagic ytyiCtiCaThe stnstensesreprpliclnicunouCoCout infamous Puss in Boots through different fairytales
lllaahhthrough the Museum dd--aa--lstories daayyaaWagga’s eevvddiscover sseerruuttnnand of the Riverina’s dress up collection!
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The show will be playing at Uranquinty Hall on Tuesday 8 July, Oura Hall on Wednesday 9 July, Collingullie Hall on Thursday 10 July and Ladysmith Hall on Friday 11 July with performances at 10am stneserp licsntunoeCseyrtpiClicangugoaCWytaiCggaagWgaW aggaW andd1pm a-hllah -day. dl -l aa -y n aeyvaddaeach serustenreuvt ggaW aggaW tickets from the Civic Theatre rp licnuoC ytiC ayour stneseBuy ad-a-llahon Booking 6926 9688 or at serutnevda yOffice ujj yyllucivictheatre.com.au ehT
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HOLIDAY FUN: Collingullie Public School students Maya Bruckner, Bridie Jenkins, Harrison Gunn, Isabelle Bruckner and Judd Somerville try on some of the dress ups ahead of next week’s shows.
Let’s start a conversation
“The main aim for Council when taking on this new initiative was to increase the community’s
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FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 2014
ability to access the wide range of information generated by Council while effectively managing our overall annual expenditure on advertising,” said Mayor Rod Kendall. Each week, Council News will contain the latest decisions and deliberations of Council, news and information on the programs, services and projects available to the community as well as jobs, development application notifications, tenders and public notices. “Council News is about taking a whole new approach to keeping our community up to date,” said Mayor Kendall. 98 COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN “The decision to implement
Council News is consistent with Council’s recent decisions about adjusting our operations to create a more financially sustainable future path.” All Council’s are legally required to advertise items such as tenders, development consent items, road regulations and public notices in their local newspaper. “Council News capitalises on meeting our legal notification requirements, by bundling it together with additional information that will help residents be involved and stay up to date with Council’s role in their community.” A crucial part of Council’s community engagement objectives is ensuring increased
67 FAITHS
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1 COMMUNITY
Cost cutting budget adopted Council adopted a total budget for 2014/15 of $161,475,571 at last week’s Council Meeting, including a $55M capital works component. 19 submissions were received during the public exhibition period for the 2014/15 draft Combined Delivery Program and Operational Plan and Long Term Financial Plan, resulting in amendments regarding levee funding and waste fees. The budget includes a 2.3% increase to rates across the Local Government Area. The adopted budget was balanced through a preference for reducing costs instead of significant increases in rates, fees and charges.
and consistent information is delivered direct from Council to local residents in a timely and cost effective manner. Communication occurring between Council and the community via traditional media, websites, social media and community meetings all plays a part in increasing the amount of information delivered direct from Council to local residents. For its part, Council News will appear each week in The Weekend Advertiser, and Riverina Leader. It is also available from Council’s website at www.wagga.nsw.gov. au/councilnews and readers can choose to subscribe to get it emailed direct each week.
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WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
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Aviary takes flight Repair work on the free flight bird aviary at the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens zoo commenced yesterday.
The free flight aviary, which opened in the early 90’s, has had many bird species call it home. The aviary has housed over 80 different varieties of species, and prior to its closure, hosted approximately 250 birds. At the time of its construction it was named the biggest free flight aviary in Australia. An inspection of the structure earlier this year found a white ant infestation in the support poles. This required the aviary’s immediate closure and repairs to be scheduled to ensure the safety of its feathered residents and visitors to the facility. “The repairs to the free flight aviary will see the old timber support poles, that have
become weakened over time, replaced with sturdier steel ones,” Council’s Director Environmental and Community Services, Ms Janice Summerhayes said. “Footings will be drilled and cemented in the coming two weeks, followed by the installation of the steel support poles.” Local contractors carrying out the work have devised a plan where the removal of the aviary’s roof netting during the repairs is not required. “Work to replace the failing support poles will be undertaken from inside the aviary,” Ms Summerhayes added. “By not removing the netting, we will be
PRESSPLAY
“The outdoor pool at the Oasis is one of Australia’s finest 50-metre, 10-lane solar heated FINA standard pools, surrounded by palm trees, sail shades and lush green lawns,” Council’s Acting Centre Manager Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre, David Barrett said. “The outdoor pools are used by a number of user groups including schools, swim clubs and water polo teams and there are always public lap swimming lanes available.” The Oasis offers many fantastic facilities that are in operation throughout the year, including a beach area, turbo pool and the Royal Life Saving’s Swim and Survive program. “Last year, the Oasis had over 280,000 visitors through the door and 5,425 of those were children participating in the Swim and Survive program,” Mr Barrett explained.
Swim and Survive provides a broad, balanced program of swimming, water safety and survival skills in preparation for a lifetime of safe activity in, on or near the water. It caters for children of all abilities, providing opportunities to build confidence and respect for the water. Memberships to the Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre are available ranging from three to 12 months, along with casual swim passes. Members have full access to the facility and programs. If you would like more information about the Oasis Aquatic Centre, or about becoming a member, contact the friendly reception staff on 02 6926 9390.
Public Holiday opening hours Monday 06/10/14
9am to 5pm
Opening times 07/10/14 to 12/10/14 Monday – Thursday
6am to 8pm
Friday
6am to 7pm
Saturday
8:30am to 5pm
Sunday
9am to 5pm
50m outdoor pool opening times 07/10 to 12/10 Monday – Friday
11:30am—6:30pm
Saturday
8:30am to 5pm
Sunday
9am to 5pm
Oasis opening times from 13/10/14 Monday – Thursday
6am to 9pm
Friday
6am to 8pm
Saturday
8:30am to 5pm
Sunday
9am to 5pm
DEAR PLASTIC KALACOMA
Tuesday 9 September 4pm – 5:30pm
Tuesday 23 September 4pm – 5:30pm
Council News CITY OF WAGGA WAGGA
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Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre Contact the Box Office on 6926 9688 boxoffice@civictheatre.com.au
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Council News CITY OF WAGGA WAGGA
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 23 APRIL 2016
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story inside...
Levee one step closer
Rate variation application submitted for vital flood protection upgrade Director of Corporate Services, Craig Richardson, says this is an important step towards upgrading the levee system. “A temporary special rate variation is the responsible way to fund this major project, which will be of great benefit to the wider Wagga Wagga Local Government Area,” he said. “To fund a project of this scale within Council’s existing budget would have a significant impact on the delivery of services.” Under the proposed rate increase property owners in the farmland rate category will pay
an additional 3.7 per cent in 2016/17 (1.8 per cent rate peg, 1.9 per cent levee upgrade component). All other properties will see an increase of 5.9 per cent in 2016/17 (1.8 per cent rate peg, 4.1 per cent levee upgrade component). The levee upgrade component of rates will be maintained, but will not compound, for a period of five years. Rates will only rise by the rate peg for the last four years of this period and the levee upgrade component of rates will drop off at the end of this period.
To ensure transparency, the levee upgrade component of rates would be shown separately on rates notices each year over the five-year period. Residents are encouraged to learn more about how the increase will affect them by calling 1300 292 442 or going to the website. Submissions on the application can be made on the IPART website, closing 14 March.
wagga.nsw.gov.au/srv
ACTIVE LIVING 1-10 APRIL 2016
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Council News - A Wagga Wagga City Council publication
Wagga Wagga City Council launched the fifth Waggafest by celebrating the creative efforts of a group of children who helped
design this year’s artwork and promotion material. More than a hundred young artists drew their best for Waggafest during Australia Day celebrations, with elements from eight artworks now featuring in the short film competition’s promotion material. “It was great to see so many kids take part in the drawing workshop on Australia Day and the organisers had a very tough task selecting which drawings to use,” Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga
Councillor Rod Kendall said. “Kids were asked to draw what they thought was the best, whether it was their favourite sport or something they love about Wagga. “They didn’t know it at the time, but these eight children were helping illustrate this year’s theme ‘The best is yet to come’.” All entries to the Tropfest-inspired short film festival must tell a unique Wagga story that in some way responds to the theme. “Waggafest is all about encouraging people to share their
1300 292 442 wagga.nsw.gov.au/seniorsweek
Wagga story with the world,” Cr Kendall said. “It could be a drama about someone overcoming a past hardship, or a futuristic sci-fi, it could be gritty documentary or a far-fetched yarn – the important thing is that we get to see a unique Wagga story that reminds us that the best is yet to come.” The winning artists were presented with a Waggafest poster featuring elements of their drawings at the theme launch on Tuesday 17 February.
The Mayor said he would be thrilled to see the winners turn their attention to a new creative challenge: a Waggafest entry. “We’ve had some highly memorable entries from under 18s before, and there are special prizes to reward the work of young entrants,” he said. “You don’t need a big budget or fancy equipment — just a good idea and a camera phone will do.” For more details about this year’s competition, visit www.wagga.nsw. gov.au/waggafest.
Eldridge accepts top job
Councillors appoint General Manager on four-year contract The City of Wagga Wagga has appointed Alan Eldridge to the position of General Manager on a fouryear contract.
A well-respected local businessman, Mr Eldridge took on the role on a short-term contract in October 2015 and during that time has enacted a number of service
improvements. “I am pleased to announce that after an extensive recruitment process, Councillors have appointed Mr Eldridge to the position of General Manager,” Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Rod Kendall said. “My fellow Councillors and I have been impressed by Mr Eldridge’s time in the position and are confident he has the experience
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and expertise to shape the future of our city. “The past seven months have been a time of change and progress for Wagga Wagga and Mr Eldridge has guided the city and Council through this period exceptionally.” Mr Eldridge was the Chair of Council’s Audit and Risk Committee from 2009 until October 2015 and has a background in managing
large organisations. The first task for the new General Manager was accompanying Cr Kendall to Sydney on Friday to meet with the NSW Treasurer to discuss a State Government funding commitment for the Bomen Enabling Roads project. The General Manager position was advertised nationally in March, with Council looking for a transformational leader to manage
a budget of about $110 million, assets of more than $1 billion and a total staff of 450. Councillors held an Extraordinary Council Meeting on Thursday night in which Council resolved to provide a formal letter of offer to Mr Eldridge, who accepted the offer in writing later that evening. Council thanked recruitment consultant Terrey Kiss for his valuable professional support during the past few months.
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Thanks to our “The Best is yet to come” artists: Charli Murdoch Olivia Wright Amy Martin Lucy Miegel Ryley Clemson Flynn Van Tol Paige Jessop Georgia Johnson
Friday 13 March 2015 7.30am - 9.00am Wagga Wagga Country Club The 2015 Big Business Breakfast will feature Charlie Brown, a leading commentator on the latest technology innovations.
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Lights, camera, action! Entries are open now for the 2015 Wagga Waggafest with the theme “The best is yet to come”.
2015
Join TaikOz for a 90 minute “Taiko is for Everyone” session. Experience first-hand the amazing sound of the taiko by learning some basic techniques and a short piece of music - prior musical training is not a requirement.
“Meet the Writer” of Unholy Ghosts, Campion Decent will to talk about his processes in the writing stage, what’s involved in getting the script into production, and seeing his words come to life in the rehearsal room.
City of Wagga Wagga has submitted an application to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a temporary special rate variation (SRV) to begin in 2016/17. IPART is currently reviewing the application and is expected to make an announcement on whether or not it is successful in May 2016. If successful, the money raised will be used to fund Council’s one third, $7.75M share of a $23.3M upgrade to the main city and North Wagga flood levee system.
“The best is yet to come”
2. Workshop Two
1. Workshop One
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2016
After lying dormant during the winter months, the outdoor 50m pool and diving pool at the Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre are ready for the warm weather ahead and will reopen to the public on Tuesday 7 October.
Lo O K iN G Fo r th e ir fO reve r eS h O m es
FRIDAY 10 APRIL 5PM WOLLUNDRY AMPHITHEATRE CU RAT ED BY SAR A H MO TT #PR ESSPL AY WA GGA
able to save a considerable amount of time.” The entire project totalling $100,000 has been approved in the current budget. The repair work has been scheduled to be completed within two months, weather permitting. The birds, who have been rehoused in separate cages at the zoo during the aviary’s closure, will be released back into the repaired and safe structure in stages, so as to not cause them distress. It is expected that the aviary will be reopened in time for the October school holidays.
pen for summer JUMP IN: David Barrett takes the plunge in the outdoor pool at the Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre which opens on Tuesday.
Say g’day to our newest Aussies! Twenty-eight people from 10 countries were welcomed to Wagga and Australia on Thursday by Mayor Rod Kendall at the February citizenship ceremony.
Packer commissioned by Wagga Wagga City Council to create the unique designs. Regenerate Youth Festival has partnered with headspace Wagga Wagga and NYW to present Press Play and the Ryan Gosling Film Festival. Both events are expected to prove a hit with approximately 21 per cent of the Wagga’s population aged between 12 and 25 years. Both Press Play and the Ryan Gosling Film Festival are all ages, drug and alcohol free events. Visit wagga.nsw.gov.au/ youthweek for more information.
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YOUNG TALENT: The Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Rod Kendall showcases the 2015 Wagga Waggafest poster design with the kids that contributed to it with their drawings (from left) Ryley Clemson, 8, Flynn Van Tol, 9, Paige Jessop, 10 and Georgia Johnson, 10.
wagga.nsw.gov.au/councilnews
328 students from ten primary schools helped Wagga Wagga City Library Celebrate Book Week and Science Week, held from 18-22 August. The school groups were given VIP Book Week tours, were read brilliant stories such as I Want My Hat Back and participated in a craft activity. Students were also shown examples of all the remarkable items the library offers for loan to its members; including magazines, DVDs and a plethora of books – all for free. Ashmont Public School was drawn as the lucky winner of the Book Week prize - an autographed box set of the Keys to the Kingdom series by Garth Nix. Library staff Jeannie Hazell and Michael Scutti had great fun presenting the prize to the Ashmont Public students on WINNERS: Wagga Wagga City Council Library Assistant Information Services, Jeannie Hazell (centre) presents the Book Week prize to Ashmont Public School Prefect, Montana Thursday 28 August. Davies 11 (left) and School Captain, John Orr 11 (right).
I heard you like Ryan Gosling
local talent. Melbourne outfits Kalacoma and Dear Plastic will be showcasing their mix of experimental rock and avant-garde pop, with support from local musician Cameron Graham and duo Jarryn Phegan and Zach Biggin. Curating Press Play is ex-resident Sarah Mott, who has been living and studying in Melbourne for the past five years and put together the gig’s line up. The promotional artwork for Press Play also has a local flavour, with Wagga-based graphic designer and CSU alumni Adele
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2015
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Rumours have been circling Wagga Wagga that Hollywood heartthrob Ryan Gosling will be visiting the city for a film festival in his honour as part of National Youth Week (NYW). Gosling – or possibly his cutout – has been spotted across Wagga, with fans and wouldbe paparazzi sharing shots of the actor via social media with #gosfestwagga. Council News snapped Gosling this week checking out the site of the festival from the Civic Theatre balcony with local fan Jess Facey (pictured). The Ryan Gosling Film Festival will give fans of all ages the chance to watch the actor’s best-known films The Notebook and Crazy Stupid Love under the stars at the Wollundry Amphitheatre on 17 April from 6pm.
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Each prize contains 10 adult swim vouchers and 10 concession swim vouchers
Welcome!
Free concert to feature upcoming Melbourne bands
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2 PRIZES TO BE WON!
Hey girl!
Right across the city there’s something for kids of all ages, with the showpiece event being a free all-ages concert as part of National Youth Week (NYW). Press Play has been curated and designed by youth, for youth and will feature some of the nation’s most talented emerging bands, plus some of the best
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Parents won’t be hearing “I’m bored” this school holidays with a bumper two weeks of fun and activities.
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Pick up your school holiday What’s On guide at Council facilities!
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Council News is a new initiative of Wagga Wagga City Council aimed at providing the community with a ‘one stop shop’ for Council news, public notices, job ads and information on a weekly basis.
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Register online at www.businesswaggawagga.com.au $45 per person
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For further information please call Donna at Wagga Wagga City Council p. (02)- 6926 9133 Wagga e. business@wagga.nsw.gov.au Council News A Wagga City Council publication
Thanks for reading! Welcome to your new-look Council News. Today marks the hundredth edition of Council News, which has been keeping residents informed about news and issues around the Local Government Area for almost two years. Council News was last year recognised with a prestigious RH Dougherty Award from Local Government NSW. Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Rod Kendall said Council News was a vital resource for the community. Continued inside
All roads lead to Bomen
One of the city’s most important infrastructure projects is a step closer after the City of Wagga Wagga secured $13.2M in NSW Government funding.
from the state or it would lose a $14.5M grant from the Federal Government and the potential to unlock close to 1,800 hectares of land at Bomen Business Park. “A NSW Government funding commitment was vital to help make this project a reality,” Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Rod Kendall said. “The Bomen Enabling Roads and proposed RiFL Hub will transform our economy and provide long-lasting benefits About $70M of works are required for the to the wider community. Bomen Enabling Roads (Stage One) and The NSW Government will provide a proposed Riverina Intermodal Freight and specific purpose grant of $8.3M toward the Logistics (RiFL) Hub (Stage Two), including an underpass and a 5.8km master rail siding. construction of the new heavy vehicle link and $4.9M to replace the Eunony Bridge Council required a funding commitment under the Fixing Country Roads program.
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The Federal Government has also committed $4.9M to the bridge replacement. With all of the funding now locked in, Council will be able to continue work on the Wagga Wagga High Productivity Freight Route, which began with the Eunony Bridge Road Deviation Project in 2014-15. “The High Productivity Freight Route will create a potential round trip saving of 36 minutes – or 21 kilometres – for Higher Mass Limits (HML) vehicles and encourage heavy vehicles to avoid the CBD,” Cr Kendall said. “The enabling roads also serve as the first stage of the proposed RiFL Hub program, which would be constructed on land adjoining the new roads at Bomen Business
Park. The next step of the proposed RiFL Hub project is finalising commercial terms with Council’s private sector partner, Genesee & Wyoming Australia (GWA). These negotiations are progressing well and it is envisaged that terms will be finalised over the next six months, but are still subject to several commercial decisions. “It’s important to note that Council is proposing to build the enabling roads regardless of stage two proceeding. The enabling roads provide significant safety, economic and productivity benefits which makes it a great project on its own,” Cr Kendall said.
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School students learn about Council career options This week the City of Wagga Wagga participated in Compact Careers Day, showcasing the vast array of jobs and career opportunities available to local school students. People and Culture Assistant Ali Connell said the City of Wagga Wagga offers a wide range of jobs for school leavers. “Council encourages learning and development in the workplace as well as offers a great flexible work/life balance,” Miss Connell said. “Today is a great initiative to show students how broad and diverse
council jobs are and what could be in store for them in the future.” Council offers a range of options for school leavers, from specialised traineeships to unique and exciting career options such as a zoo curator, art gallery or museum curator to environment and community officers, just to name a few. Find out more about what career options are available at Council by visiting wagga.nsw.gov.au/jobs. Story by work experience student, Jordan Morris, Year 10, Wagga Wagga High School.
CAREERS ADVICE: Council’s People and Culture Assistant Ali Connell speaks with Year 12 Wagga Wagga High School students Madalyn Roberts and Jacob Hopkins-Windle about Council career options at the Compact Careers Day.
THANKS FOR READING! Continued from front “The first edition of Council News read ‘Let’s start a conversation’ and since then it has been a one-stop shop for news, public notices, job vacancies, events and more in the Wagga region,” he said.
“Local government has a number of legal requirements for advertising and Council News was created by rethinking how that expenditure is used. “Not only has this initiative used ratepayers’ money more effectively, it’s
made it easier for the community to access information about Council programs and services.” If you don’t want to miss an edition of your new-look Council News, subscribe online at wagga.nsw.gov.au/ councilnews.
DOUBLE THE FUN: There were two reasons to celebrate for the Chaudhari family on Thursday, with Himanish (pictured) celebrating his seventh birthday and all family members receiving their Australian citizenship. The Chaudhari family were five of 20 new residents of Australia at this week’s ceremony. All new residents were welcomed to Wagga and Australia by Mayor Rod Kendall.
RESERVE FORCES DAY SERVICE SUNDAY 3 JULY 2016
Open invitation for all serving and Ex-ADF Reservists, Regulars and Nashos of the Riverina and Southern NSW.
Commemorative Service 10.30am for 11.00am start Victory Memorial Gardens, cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets, Wagga Wagga
WANT TO REPRESENT YOUR COMMUNITY? Potential Local Government election candidates will be able to pick the brain of former Deputy Mayor Kay Hull at two upcoming seminars. Local Government elections will be held in NSW on 10 September, with nine Councillor positions for the City of Wagga Wagga to be determined. Local Government NSW will be facilitating two pre-election seminars next month for those interested in standing for elected office, with Mrs Hull on hand to answer any questions following the session. “The pre-election seminar enables individuals to understand the role of an elected representative and to fully consider the personal impact and time commitment
involved in being a Councillor,” Council’s Director Corporate Services Craig Richardson said. “The seminars will include information about Local Government, the role, responsibilities and key relationships of Councillors and the support available to Councillors. “Following the presentation from Local Government NSW, Kay Hull will conduct a question and answer session.” Mrs Hull was first elected to Council in 1991 and served as Deputy Mayor from 1995-98. She then went on to the Federal Member for Riverina from 19982010. The free seminars for anyone considering nominating for a position as Councillor will be
held at the Council Meeting Room on Tuesday 5 July. The sessions will cover topics such as understanding the role of Council and Councillors, the challenges of the role, meeting procedures and rules of debate, and an introduction to many of the terms used in Local Government. The first three-hour seminar will start at 1.30pm with the second seminar taking place at 5.30pm. All prospective Councillors are strongly encouraged to attend. To register for a seminar, contact Council’s Senior Governance Officer Neil McDermott on 1300 292 442 or via email to council@wagga. nsw.gov.au by 5pm Monday, 27 June as places are limited.
COMMUNITY FUN AT MARRAMBIDYA WETLANDS Whoever says nature can’t be fun or interesting hasn’t paid a visit to Wagga’s newest environmental space, Marrambidya Wetland. A community open day was held at the wetland last Sunday where more than 150 kids and adults tried their hand at a range of activities from investigating water bugs, releasing yabbies and reed plantings. Wagga’s Wiradjuri heritage and culture was also celebrated through storytelling, spear throwing and a performance from the Maliyaa Dance Group. Earthworks have transformed the former Narrung Street treatment ponds into a vibrant wetland for native plants and DYNAMIC DANCE: Members of the Maliyaa dance group wildlife. took part in the Marrambidya Wetland Community Open The wetland was officially unveiled at Day on Sunday. the start of June.
Wagga Wagga City Council presents
JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN!
The Battles of Fromelles - July 1916 To acknowledge, commemorate and remember the citizens of Wagga Wagga and the Riverina who were engaged and served with distinction in this battle. Organised by R.F.D.C Riverina. Enquiries: John Ploenges 02 6922 9766
Proudly supported by: Wagga Wagga City Council, Rules Club (Wagga), NSAA (Wagga & District), Bunnings, Riverina RSL Sub-Branches, Mind Your Admin, Darryl’s Photography.
LET
QUESTACON
EXCITED PARTICLES
TAKE YOU ON A HIGH-FLYING JOURNEY THROUGH THE HISTORY & SCIENCE OF THE HUMBLE BALLOON!
Touring in Galore, Uranquinty, Oura, Collingullie and Ladysmith Monday 11 – Friday 15 July 2016
Tickets: $5 each | $4 for groups 4+ Ph: 6926 9688 | www.civictheatre.com.au Council News - A Wagga Wagga City Council publication
WORK SITE: Works to improve Lake Albert’s Apex Park car park and boat ramp are moving along. Recent wet weather will delay completion of the project by about one month.
APEX PARK UPGRADE ROLLING ALONG Works to improve Lake Albert’s Apex Park are moving along, however, wet weather has delayed the completion date. More than $700,000 is being spent to upgrade the car park and boat ramp and improve the shoreline on the eastern side of the lake.
Since works started in April excavation of the car park and removal of some trees has been carried out to make the space bigger and accommodate more boat parking spaces. Kerb and guttering and drainage work is also complete. New solar lights
have been installed and the boat ramp has been widened to 8 metres, which will allow two cars to use the ramp at one time. Remaining work, including installation of signage, car park reseal, line marking, garden bed replacement and irrigation works, are
expected to be complete by the end of July - weather permitting. Due to high water levels, shoreline works to improve access will be carried out later in the year. The car park and boat ramp remain closed to
allow the rest of the works to take place. The Apex Park play equipment, barbecues and Lake Albert walking track, hall and oval are all open. Boat and recreational users can access the boat ramp and car park at the
Wagga Wagga Boat Club. Parking is also available on Eastlake and Lakeside drives. The upgrade project is funded by Road and Maritime Services and the City of Wagga Wagga.
When and why are sportsgrounds closed?
WET UNDER FOOT: Strategic Asset Planner (Parks and Recreation) Peter Cook and Supervisor Open Space Ian Johnson inspect the playing surface at Henwood Park this week. Since May Wagga has had almost 200mm of rain over 33 days.
On any given weekend in June, July or August, sporting fields across Wagga play host to thousands of junior and senior sports players. Making sure those who proudly pull on Tigers, Bombers, Sharks, Hawks or any other sporting jumper have a field to play on is the role of a specialist Council team – who take their job extremely seriously. Rain is pretty much inevitable during the winter sports season in Wagga, and, so far this year the rain fall has been higher than usual, with 33 rain days, recording 194mm since May. It’s the Council team’s role to inspect the playing fields after each rain episode to determine how waterlogged and safe a
playing surface is. In the case of a ground closure, Council will only suspend play on a field from Monday to Friday. Manager Parks Strategic Operations David Walker said mid-week closures were to make sure grounds are in the best possible playing condition for weekend matches. “Our focus is on players taking the field for weekend competitions. We will only close sportsgrounds during the week in an effort to preserve surface conditions and make sure players have a safe surface to play on at weekends.” Match play at the weekend is at user-group discretion, and only in extreme cases will Council close a ground on a
Saturday or Sunday. These scenarios are a rarity and if a ground is closed, Council endeavours to move matches to another field to not disrupt the season. Mr Walker said in the months leading into winter, Council tries to improve grass surfaces by over-sowing the grounds. “This helps provide a better playing surface when other grasses are dormant. In addition, Council has also invested in drainage on several first-grade grounds across the city,” he said. To check the status on sportsgrounds or to find out more about the playing fields in Wagga visit wagga.nsw.gov.au/ sportsgrounds
S K Y- H I G H S C H O O L H O L I D AY F U N
Local kids will be blown away by the magic and wonder of science this July school holidays when one of the nationallyacclaimed science theatre troupe Questacon’s Excited Particles comes to town. Balloonatic, the spectacular science show, takes audiences on a fun-filled, hands-on journey through the history and science of the humble balloon. The one-man show explores everything from hot-air ballooning, helium and hydrogen and the use of balloons in space. Balloonatic is the latest instalment in the City of Wagga Wagga’s Hall-A-Day Adventures
THIS WEEK: LIFE IN THE SPOTLIGHT ‘BEST OF’ 2016
Until Sat 16 July Featuring hits from Grease, Chicago, Footloose the Musical, Phantom of the Opera, Rock of Ages, Sister Act and many more! Tickets from Civic Theatre. Performances at Riverina Playhouse, Cross Street. Ph: 6926 9688
STARS + STRIPES: AMERICAN ART OF THE 21ST CENTURY
outreach program, which has brought national and local performances to rural halls in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area each July school holidays since 2013. “Hall-A-Day Adventures gives residents in our rural villages a fantastic opportunity to see a high-class production in their own backyard at a very low cost,” Director Environment and Community Services Janice Summerhayes said. “Due to the winter weather the July school holidays tend to be a bit quieter. Holding the Hall-ADay program in the second week of the July holidays is aimed to
FROM THE GOLDBERG COLLECTION
Until Sun 3 July, closed Mondays Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Ph: 6926 9660
RIVER & WREN BOUTIQUE MARKETS Sun 26 June 10am - 3pm Free entry, donation welcome. Handmade, homemade and home grown. Wagga Showground, Bourke Street. Ph: 0409 152 187
BEYOND BANK REGIONAL PITCHFEST Wed 29 June, 7pm Top entrepreneurs and
help break the boredom for rural kids and their families.” Following the Balloonatic shows kids will be invited to roll up their sleeves and participate in a science-inspired craft activity run by the Museum of the Riverina. The Hall-A-Day Adventures program will head to Galore for the first time this year, as well as Uranquinty, Oura, Collingullie and Ladysmith. Tickets are $5 or $4 for groups of four or more and can be purchased through the Civic Theatre Booking Office, civictheatre.com.au. See advert previous page for show times and locations.
innovators from regional Australia will pitch their idea to an expert panel. Adults $50, Conc $40, Students U/18 $25. Civic Theatre. Ph: 6926 9688
RIVERINA PRODUCERS’ MARKET
Thursdays 1pm - 6pm Free entry. Civic Centre Precinct, off Tarcutta Street. Ph: 6924 3574
RCM 2016 LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES
Thu 30 June 1:10pm Fusion, Wagga Wagga Baptist Church. Free entry. Ph: 6925 3522
U13 GIRLS FIELD
HOCKEY STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Thu 30 June - Sun 3 July Great opportunity to come and watch some amazing hockey skills at a championship level. Jubilee Park, Bourke Street. Ph:0421 450 246
PET WEEK
OF THE
Meet Jinx This week’s Pet of the Week includes microchipping, lifetime is a one-and-a-half year old registration, vaccination, desexing and worming. brindle and white female If you would like to meet Jinx, or whippet named Jinx. She would love a big backyard to run in and to go on regular walks. Jinx is available for adoption now from the Glenfield Road Animal Shelter for $299.40, which
/waggaevents For support in organising your event, contact Council’s Events Unit at events@wagga.nsw.gov.au or 1300 292 442 Mon to Fri. To promote your event or for a full list of events go to: visitwagga.com or call 1300 100 122.
any of her furry friends, visit the shelter from Monday to Saturday between 1pm and 4.15pm. For more information, visit wagga.nsw.gov.au/animals or call 6971 4651 during business hours.
mobile library timetable Uranquinty Monday September 7, 3.30pm – 5pm Ladysmith Thursday September 10, 1.30pm – 2.15pm Ph: (02) 6926 9771
www.rrl.nsw.gov.au
Council News - A Wagga Wagga City Council publication
Photo: Andrew Hagan
AFTERLIFE INTERPRETATIONS: Departed is the latest projection by internationally-acclaimed Australian projection artist Yandell Walton, created for the Wagga Wagga Civic Centre building, overlooking the Wollundry Lagoon. Departed explores representation of the afterlife, inspired by discussions with local community members, who form part of the work. This work aims to explore a collective idea of what death may look like. Through 3D scanning technology community participants were digitally captured and form part of the work. Departed is projected nightly from 6pm through to 11pm, and finishes its run Wednesday 30 June 2016.
BIGGER AND BETTER SPORTING HALL OF FAME
Never-before-seen photographs and footage of some of Wagga’s greatest sporting icons will soon be part of the city’s Sporting Hall of Fame exhibition. The gallery is set for expansion following a month-long refurbishment, due to start Monday 27 June. The Hall of Fame will be closed to the public during this time, but when reopened on Saturday 30 July, the space and Museum collection will be bigger and better.
Public Notices
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION - 10 SEPTEMBER 2016: ENROLMENT AS A NON-RESIDENT ELECTOR
Wagga Wagga City Council, in accordance with clause 280 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, hereby gives notice that persons are entitled to vote in the upcoming Local Government
“This incarnation of the Sporting Hall of Fame will include some representation from all 104 inductees,” Museum curator Michelle Maddison said. “New objects, photographs and film footage have been sourced from inductees, including footballers Arthur Summons, Greg Brentnall, cricketers Jason Young and Peter McLay, carriage driver Cheryl Drummond, karate champion Megan Chisholm and many more.
Election and are entitled to be enrolled as electors, if they are owners, rate paying lessees or occupiers of rateable land in the Wagga Wagga Local Government area. Claims for enrolment as an owner, ratepaying lessee or occupier of rateable land in Wagga Wagga Local Government Area must be received by the General Manager at the Wagga Wagga City Council office on or before 6pm (EST) Monday 1 August 2016. Claim Forms are available from Council’s Customer Services Centre, cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets,
Wagga Wagga or from Council’s website www. wagga.nsw.gov.au/cityof-wagga-wagga/council/ about-council/elections Further information may be obtained by contacting Council’s Senior Governance Officer, Neil McDermott on 1300 292 442.
NSW LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS: PRE-ELECTION SEMINARS
Local Government Elections will be held in the state of New South Wales on Saturday, 10 September 2016.
WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL VACANCIES
careers at council
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER
Remuneration: Min $1,354.50 gpw + super Enquiries: Sharomi Dayanand - 02 6926 9345 Closing Date: Friday, 8 July 2016
CASUAL MOBILE LIBRARY OPERATOR
Remuneration: Min $33.58 gph + super Enquiries: Brian Plummer - 02 6926 9750 or Robert Knight 02 6926 9777 Closing Date: Friday, 15 July 2016
To view these opportunities and apply, visit www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/jobs Wagga Wagga City Council is an EEO employer
Values - Part of everything we do Trust • Respect • Innovation • Teamwork
Contact us p 1300 292 442 e council@wagga.nsw.gov.au w www.wagga.nsw.gov.au a Civic Centre Cnr Baylis & Morrow Sts PO Box 20, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650
“Most of these items have not been displayed before. Some old favourites will be displayed along side some new surprises.” The renovation is the first major revamp the Sporting Hall of Fame has had in more than five years. The Hall of Fame is now in its 15th year and is located at the Museum of the Riverina’s Botanic Gardens site.
wagga.nsw.gov.au/museum
Persons considering nominating for a position as Councillor on Wagga Wagga City Council are advised that two (2) three (3) hour free preelection seminars will be held in the Council Meeting Room, Civic Centre, cnr Baylis & Morrow Streets Wagga Wagga on Tuesday, 5 July 2016. The first seminar will start at 1.30pm with the second seminar starting at 5.30pm. These seminars will enable those interested in becoming a councillor to gain a better understanding of the role and responsibilities as an elected member of council. The seminars will provide prospective councillors with information regarding: • The benefits and importance of Local Government • Understanding the role of Council and the role of the Councillor • A typical Council structure • Challenges of the role and how to meet them • The importance of diverse representation on Council • Meeting procedures and rules of debate • Support available including information and networks • Introduction to Local Government jargon and what it means • Putting it together – making the commitment All prospective councillors are strongly encouraged to attend. Persons interested in attending the seminars should register with Wagga Wagga City Council’s Senior Governance Officer, Neil McDermott on 1300 292 442 or via email to
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A E R I A L M A P P I N G B A C K YA R D SWIMMING POOL REVIEW Ensuring safety in our backyards, the City of Wagga Wagga is assisting pool owners in the Local Government Area to make sure swimming pools are compliant with required legislation. New South Wales has strict legislation for owners of backyard swimming pools to help prevent drownings and other accidents. Manager Development Services Colby Farmer said Council is always open to working with home owners to ensure swimming pools are compliant and made safe for all pool users. “While backyard swimming pools are great fun, they can also present real dangers such as drownings, especially for young children,” Mr Farmer said. “Council recognises that a collaborative approach with pool owners is required to make sure tragedies like this don’t happen in our backyards.” As part of Council’s Swimming Pool Compliance Program, which has been established for four years, an aerial mapping review of the Local Government Area was recently completed. The review identified about 200 swimming pools that are not listed on Council’s or the state-wide swimming pool register and appear to not have required development consent. Letters will soon be issued to these home owners requesting relevant development consent be obtained to ensure that the pool is made safe. Pool owners who wish to talk to Council about pool-related matters can do so by phoning the onduty building surveyor on 1300 292 442 or coming into the Civic Centre Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Further information on state legislation and backyard pool safety can be found at wagga.nsw. gov.au/swimmingpools
Baylis and Morrow Streets, Wagga Wagga (Customer Service Counter). NOTICE OF When: 9am to 5pm, TEMPORARY Monday to Friday (except Public ROAD CLOSURE Holidays). Notice is hereby given under Roads Act 1993 Submission Period: Part 8 Division 4 of the 27/06/2016 to temporary closing of: 11/07/2016. Road: Baylis & Fitzmaurice Any person seeking Sts between Morrow and to make a submission Johnston Sts, Johnston in relation to the St, Ivan Jack Dr, Best abovementioned St, Morrow St, Peter St, Morrow St development should address all Duration: 2 July 2016 from 10am to 5pm correspondence to the Reason: Wagga Classic Consent Authority to Cycle event be received prior to NOTICE OF Detour: As per sign 5pm on the final day of DEVELOPMENT posted routes the exhibition period. If PROPOSAL FOR any submission is made NOTICE OF INTEGRATED by way of objection, the TEMPORARY DEVELOPMENT grounds of objection ROAD CLOSURE DA16/0224, Four must be specified in Notice is hereby given lot subdivision the submission. under Roads Act 1993 (three residential, Persons lodging Part 8 Division 4 of the one rural), 33 Baker temporary closing of: submissions are St URANQUINTY required to declare Road: Baylis St & sections NSW 2652, Lot 2 DP of Morgan, Forsyth & political donations 1182473, TJ Hinchcliffe (including donations Tompson St & Associates Pty Ltd, Date: 3 July 2016 of more than $1000) Name of Consent Duration: Sunday Nights made in the previous Authority: Wagga to Thursday nights two years. For more Approximately 2 weeks Wagga City Council details, including Reason: High Pressure The proposal disclosure form, go to cleaning of Baylis Street is Integrated www.planning.nsw.gov. Pavers Development. au/donations. Approvals required:NOTICE OF Enquiries: Further DEVELOPMENT Bushfire Safety details relating to the PROPOSAL Authority under Rural matter can be obtained Fires Act 1997 s 100B by contacting the Wagga Wagga City Council has The subject application, Council’s Development Services. If you received the following Statement of have any enquiries applications to carry Environmental Effects regarding the out “Development” and accompanying application, or about under the documentation, may making submission, Environmental Planning be inspected at the please telephone and Assessment Act, following address Development Services 1979. until the closure on 1300 292 442. of exhibition on DA14/0673.02, Single 11/07/2016. storey commercial/ retail development Where: Wagga Wagga Alan Eldridge, (neighbourhood City Council, cnr council@wagga.nsw.gov. au by 5pm Monday, 27 June 2016 as places are limited.
shopping centre), ancillary parking & relocation of existing bus stop - major modification to increase the size of the shopping centre to include a gym and a child care centre, 2 Rainbow Dr ESTELLA NSW 2650, Lot 602 DP 1148567, Lot 542 DP 1179577, Lot 6012 DP 1209232 Applicant: Wakefield Planning Name of Consent Authority: Wagga Wagga City Council
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