INSIDE: PLAYGROUNDS SURVEY + VISITOR GUIDE LAUNCH
THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISING FEATURE BY WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
Council News CITY OF WAGGA WAGGA
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 30 OCTOBER 2021
Issue No: 369
Weekly information from us to you
BEACH SAFETY UPGRADE Lifesaving rescue equipment including an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) were installed at Wagga Wagga Beach earlier this week following a recent aquatic safety assessment of the popular recreation precinct. See the full story inside.
BEACH BUOYS: Council’s Strategic Recreation Officer Peter Cook (left) and Royal Life Saving NSW Riverina Regional Manager Mick Dasey with one of the new lifebuoy devices installed at Wagga Wagga Beach this week.
NYE event to Light the Lake New Year’s Eve celebrations in Wagga Wagga this year will be back at the Lake Albert precinct with a community event planned to welcome 2022.
providing event management services in the city. The business operators have event management, event security and marketing experience and skills. Council’s Director Community Janice Summerhayes said seeing the New Year in with the proposed celebratory event will be An EOI for an external organisation to a real positive for Wagga Wagga. deliver the 2021 and 2022 New Year’s Eve event opened on 1 September 2021 “It was really great to see local interest and closed 6 October 2021, during again in staging a New Year’s Eve event which time three requests for information for our community, especially after a were received however only one written year of uncertainty for events and how submission was formally submitted. we come together as a community,” Ms Council at the 25 October 2021 Ordinary Summerhayes said. Council meeting resolved to sponsor “We’re looking forward to helping the $54,000 (excluding GST), to Colab Creative community celebrate the New Year in style.” to support the delivery of the 31 December Council staff will assist with event 2021 New Year’s Eve event, Light the Lake. facilitation, promotion and basic site Colab Creative is a local business preparation. Other expenses are being met
by other sponsors. To support the programming around the lake, Council also resolved to allow mobile food vans to operate at Lake Albert for the duration of the 31 December 2021 New Year’s Eve Event. The event is to be managed in a COVIDsafe manner based on the Public Health Order in place at the time, and the event organiser will put in place relevant approvals for the management of the event. Council’s sponsorship of $54,000 will go towards: • Fireworks – $35,000 • Traffic Management – $3,000 • Toilets – $3,500 • COVID-safe event delivery – $8,784 • Events Management Fees – $3,716
Don’t forget to rinse it before you bin it! All clear hard plastic items should be given a good rinse out before you put them in the yellow lid recycling bin. To learn more visit: wagga.nsw.gov.au/householdwaste
WHAT IS PLANNED The 2021 NYE event proposes the below COVID-safe celebration – Light the Lake as follows: Location: Lake Albert Precinct Time: Commencing 4.30pm to 10pm •F our community areas around Lake Albert with food, buskers and entertainment •L icensed area at Apex Park to include food and music • VIP ticketed area at Bosley Park to include a DJ and food offerings •9 .30pm fireworks on the water at Lake Albert
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Get ready for the Garage Sale Trail! N E W G U I D E W E L C O M E S V I S I T O R S Garage Sale Trail is Australia's nationwide festival of pre-loved stuff and residents across the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area have the chance to join in the activities online and in the community in November. This year’s event will be held over the first three weekends of November, starting with two days of free online webinars on 6-7 November, followed by in-person or virtual garage sales on 13-14 November and 20-21 November. Wagga Wagga City Council Environmental Education Officer Alice Kent said the month of festivities is dedicated to helping people declutter and giving a new life to some old or no-longerneeded items. “It's all about making money, saving money, and keeping
quality items out of landfill,” Ms Kent said. “By buying or selling your items at a garage sale and choosing to reuse, you not only make or save money, but also keep items circulating and in use for longer. “It's free to register and we provide all the tips, support and promotional materials you need to be successful and stay COVIDsafe. “To get the creative and crafty juices flowing, join in the free online webinars featuring experts from the world of fashion, styling, finance and sustainability – sessions range from the practical to inspirational.” If you are interested in hosting a sale on one, or more, or all of the dates, register at garagesaletrail. com.au/WaggaWagga
pet
OF THE
WEEK
#adoptdontshop
Say hello to Hazel. Our pet of the week is an inquisitive and sweet female domestic shorthair cat who is approximately one year old. She is available for adoption for $239, which includes de-sexing, vaccination, worming, microchipping, lifetime registration and ID tag. Her name is derived from the hazel tree which is a colourful
sight in the Northern Hemisphere Fall, but also associated with knowledge, healing, and white magic. Contact our team at the
Glenfield Road Animal Shelter on (02) 6971 4651 to inquire about adopting Hazel and any of her furry friends. Impound# C21/0478
6971 4651 | graswagga.com.au
R251000208
T O WA G G A WA G G A + S U R R O U N D S
The latest Wagga Wagga + Surrounds Visitor Guide will be launched on Monday 1 November 2021 to coincide with the lifting of restrictions on the Greater Sydney population’s ability to travel to regional NSW. The 2021/22 publication showcases 141 tourism partner businesses in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area and across seven neighbouring shires, including Coolamon, Junee, Narrandera, Lockhart, Snowy Valleys, CootamundraGundagai and Greater Hume. Council’s Visitor Economy Development Officer Kimberly Parker said it is the ideal time to release the guide, especially with Christmas and the summer holidays just around the corner. “We’re preparing to see an influx of visitors to the region once the COVID-19 NSW Health Order travel restrictions are lifted,” Ms Parker said. “The release of the new guide is timed to welcome people back to our region and we’re excited to be doing that as our tourism businesses have felt the impact of the COVID-19 situation and travel restrictions. “As well as featuring our tourism partners, the guide gives visitors an idea of the things to see and do, places to eat and drink, where to stay, and day-tripping options as they plan their trip.” Tourism employs many local people and injects an estimated $385 million into the economy of Wagga Wagga each year. The 74-page publication is designed primarily as a holiday planning tool for visitors from across NSW and interstate who are looking to visit Wagga Wagga + Surrounds, whether it is for a short or longer stay. “The new and improved guide showcases our strong naturebased and cycling experiences
WHAT’S
Vacancies Cemetery / Crematorium Assistant
Two (2) permanent positions available Remuneration: $2,123.58 gpf + super Enquiries: Michael Gleeson on 02 6926 9312 or 0408 476 650 Closing date: Monday 1 November 2021
Environmental Assets Attendant
One (1) permanent position available One (1) temporary position available until October 2022 Remuneration: $1,959.04 gpf + super Enquiries: Kamahl Leonard on 0417 906 734 or Brad Tilyard on 0427 713 359 Closing date: Monday 1 November 2021
Property Coordinator
Remuneration: $3,609.56 gpf + super Enquiries: Michael Keys on 02 6926 9118 Closing date: Sunday 7 November 2021
Corporate System Analyst
Remuneration: $3,100.50 gpf + super Enquiries: Reece Hamblin on 02 6926 9243 Closing date: Sunday 14 November 2021
Youth Development Officer
Remuneration: $2,851.22 gpf + super Enquiries: Sarah Lehman on 02 6926 9320 Closing date: Monday 15 November 2021 Wagga Wagga City Council is an EEO employer
To view these opportunities and apply, visit:
wagga.nsw.gov.au/jobs
ON WAGGA WAGGA + SURROUNDS
THIS WEEK:
BARISTA DAMON: POP-UP ESPRESSO BAR Sat 30 Oct, Wed 3, Thu 4, & Fri 5 Nov, 7am to 1pm
Thirsty Crow, 153 Fitzmaurice St. Ph: 6921 7470
WAGGA WAGGA ROAD RUNNERS – SATURDAY RUNS Sat 30 Oct, 7.30am
Clifton Street (near Cnr Yanko Cres) Hilltop. waggaroadrunners.com MARKETS BY THE LAKE Sat 30 Oct, 9am to 1pm
Apex Park, Lake Albert Ph: 0497 937 934
DEMONSTRATION GARDENS – VEGETABLE SWAP OR BUY Sat 30 Oct, 9am to 1.30pm
Cnr Shaw & Albury Sts. Ph: 0411 417 956
RIVERINA IRIS FARM OPEN GARDEN AND IRIS DISPLAY Sat 30, Sun 31 Oct, Mon 1, Tue 2, Wed 3, Thu 4, Fri 5 Nov, 10am to 4pm
13 Sycamore Road, Lake Albert. Ph: 0432 777 142
and the amazing agritourism products we have here in the region,” Ms Parker said. “It also includes suggested travel itineraries and builds on the inclusion of Wiradjuri language that featured in last year’s guide to help visitors connect to and appreciate the cultural heritage of the Wiradjuri people in our unique region.” The guide will be distributed
PLAN YOUR VISIT: Checking out the new Visitor Guide, (from left) Council’s Visitor Economy Development Officer Kimberly Parker and Visitor Services Operations Officer Sarah Myers, with tourism partners Kristian Whybro from Kidsons Cycles, and Nicole Lofts from Wagga Wagga Country Cottages.
GREAT DESTINATION: The new Visitor Guide showcases the plethora of attractions, activities and experiences on offer across Wagga Wagga + Surrounds.
PALM Sat 30 Oct, 12pm
The Palm & Pawn Hotel, Hampden Ave, Nth Wagga. facebook.com/events/ 2359099500892345
BAVARIA STREET PARTY Sat 30 Oct, 4pm to 10.30pm
Thirsty Crow, Fitzmaurice St. eventbrite.com.au/e/ bavaria-street-party-tickets-187961336417 DEJA GROOVE @ WAGGA RSL SPORT BAR SAT 30 OCT, 8PM TO 12AM
Wagga Wagga RSL Club, Kincaid St. waggarsl.com.au
HEWITT Tue 2 Nov, 6pm to 8pm
GUSTAVO RIOS ON GUITAR Thu 4 Nov, 7pm – 8.30pm
HIGH TEA Tue 2 Nov, 11am to 2pm
THURSDAY TRIVIA Thu 4 Nov, 7.30pm
The Curious Rabbit, 44 Johnston St. Ph: 6921 5391 The Curious Rabbit, 44 Johnston St. Ph: 6921 5391 MELBOURNE CUP Albert’s at the RSL Club, Kincaid St. Ph 6323 7237
WAGGA SOCIAL NETBALL Wed 3 Nov, 10am
Bolton Park Stadium, Morgan St. E: caronne@scvella.id.au
MUSIC AT MIDDAY WITH THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND KAPOOKA Wed 3 Nov, 12pm to 1pm
Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, Burns Way. Ph: 6926 9688
TAKE OFF AT 4 – ART MAKING WORKSHOPS (6-12YEARS) Wagga Beach, Johnston St. Commencing Wed 3 Nov, 4pm to 5.30 lucidkombicafe.com WAGGA BEACH POP UP WITH LUCID KOMBI Sun 31 Oct, 8.30am HALLOWEEN TRIVIA WITH ROSE QUARTZ DRAG QUEEN Sun 31 Oct, 6pm to 8pm
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, Morrow St. Ph: 6926 9660
Thirsty Crow Brewery, 153 Fitzmaurice St. Ph: 69217 470
TECH SAVVY SENIORS – INTRO TO ANDROID TABLETS & PHONES Fri 5 Nov, 10.30am to 12.30pm
Wagga Wagga City Library, Cnr Morrow & Baylis Sts. Ph: 6926 9700 TRADITIONAL WEAVING WORKSHOP Fri 5 Nov, 11am to 2pm
The Little Yellow House, 41 Thompson St. Ph: 0418 414 455 FRIDAY NIGHT PIZZAS Fri 5 Nov, 5.30pm to 7.30pm
Mates Gully Café, 38
Morrow St. Ph: 6921 4241 PRIMARY STUDENT ART MACRAME WALL CLASSES Wed 3 Nov, 4pm to 5.30pm HANGING WORKSHOP The Curious Rabbit, 44 Fri 5 Nov, 7pm Johnston St. Ph: 6921 5391 The Curious Rabbit, The Pot ‘n’ Kettle Coffee 44 Johnston St. ART CLASSES WITH House, Berry St. Ph: 6921 5391 LEIGH HEWITT creative-corner.com.au MUSIC IN THE EVENING Mon 1 Nov, 6pm to 8pm GROOVE FACTORIE & WITH THE AUSTRALIAN The Curious Rabbit, 44 13 FRIENDS Johnston St. Ph: 6921 5391 ARMY BAND KAPOOKA Fri 5 Nov, 7.30pm to Wed 3 Nov, 6pm to 7pm FARMHOUSE / FAMILY 9.45pm Wagga Wagga Civic SIGNS WORKSHOP Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, Burns Way. Mon 1 Nov, 6.30pm to Theatre, Burns Way. Ph: Ph: 6926 9688 8.30pm 6926 9688 RIVERINA PRODUCERS De Lew Designs, 80 Butterbush Rd, Lake Albert. MARKET /waggaevents Thu 4 Nov, 1pm to 6.30pm Ph: 6922 3921
OPEN STUDIO GALLERY Sat 30 Oct,10am to 3pm
SECONDARY STUDENT ART CLASSES Tue 2 Nov, 4pm to 5.30pm
OKTOBERFEST @ THE
INTERMEDIATE ART CLASSES WITH LEIGH
Wagga Art Society Studio, 11 Small St. Ph: 0400 225 768
through the Wagga Wagga Visitor Information Centre and local businesses, as well to Visitor Information Centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and regional NSW and Victoria. To get your copy of the guide, contact the Visitor Information Centre on 1300 100 122 or download a copy from visitwagga.com from Monday 1 November 2021.
Wagga Wagga Showgrounds, Bourke St. Ph: 0428 263 297
BBQ AND CHARCOAL – The Curious Rabbit, 44 Johnston St. Ph: 6921 5391 COOKING CLASS
Thu 4 Nov, 6pm to 10pm
Food I Am, 29 Kunzea Pl. Ph: 0439 565 653
For event organising and promotion support, contact Council’s events unit: events@wagga.nsw.gov.au or 1300 292 442 Mon - Fri.
visitwagga.com
Council News - A City of Wagga Wagga publication
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Help shape the future of our play spaces
Ladysmith Park
Livvi’s Place, Wagga Wagga
Residents are being encouraged to have their say on the management and development of new and existing play spaces across the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area (LGA) through a four-week online survey. Wagga Wagga City Council will be conducting the survey from Monday 1 November to Friday 26 November 2021. Council's Strategic Asset Planner Ben Creighton said it is the first step in a review of the current Playgrounds Strategy 2016-2036, which guides future play space development in the LGA. “There are 100 Council playgrounds in our suburbs and rural villages,” Mr Creighton said. “We want the community’s opinion on our current approach to developing new playgrounds and to upgrading or improving existing play spaces, and what they would like to see changed. “This could range from a wider variety of play activities for different ages and abilities, more infrastructure for carers and children, such as seating areas and public amenities, or more shade protection. “The feedback we receive through the survey will inform a Draft Playgrounds Strategy, which will go out to public consultation next year.” Of the 100 playgrounds Council manages, there are 84 in the Wagga Wagga urban area and 16 in the surrounding rural villages,
which provide a variety of play opportunities for younger and older children. The majority are classified as local level playgrounds – within walking distance of residents – or suburban playgrounds, which service the whole suburb as well as drawing people from other locations. There are also three regional level play spaces – Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground at Bolton Park, the Adventure Playground at the Botanic Gardens, and Apex Park at Lake Albert – which offer a wide range of play elements and support infrastructure. A regionally significant playground is being developed as part of the Riverside Stage 2 project at Wagga Wagga Beach. “Our strategy aims to deliver high quality playgrounds across the LGA, which are accessible, innovative, diverse, safe, and fun for children of all ages, and their caregivers,” Mr Creighton said. “It is important to find out the community’s aspirations and expectations around the quality and diversity of the playgrounds in their areas. “We want to make sure that we achieve the right balance in our approach to upgrading existing or building new play spaces.” To help shape the future of our play spaces, visit wagga.nsw.gov. au/playgrounds The survey closes at 5pm on Friday 26 November 2021.
Uranquinty Neighbourhood Centre
Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens
Safety equipment installed at Wagga Wagga Beach precinct Lifesaving rescue equipment including an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) were installed at Wagga Wagga Beach earlier this week following a recent aquatic safety assessment of the popular recreation precinct. The defibrillator unit, angel rings and throw ropes were among seven key recommendations for the beach following the assessment by Royal Life Saving NSW (RLSNSW) as part of a partnership with Wagga Wagga City Council.
It has already delivered a number of components in the Wagga Wagga Inland Water Safety Management Plan 2019, including the Outback Lifesaver program which is being rolled out again next year following the inaugural season’s success in 2021. The defibrillator is located on the amenities block wall in the main beach area whilst a flotation ring and throw rope have also been installed at The Rocks area upstream of the beach. Council’s Strategic Recreation Officer
Peter Cook said it was important to have the safety equipment installed prior to summer. “That has always been our aim and we have achieved this despite some hold-ups with the pandemic and rising river heights placing restrictions on getting the equipment to Wagga and then having it installed,” Mr Cook said. “Importantly, we now have the items installed as one of seven key recommendations and that is what the community called for, and in partnership with Royal Life Saving NSW
we have been able to deliver on that. “It is an added assurance for people using the area but we will continue to urge people to stay safe around the water, respect the river, and look out for each other.” RLSNSW Riverina Regional Manager Mick Dasey said the installation of the safety items was extra support for those using the area. “We hope it never has to be used, but if that’s the case then in an emergency the equipment is available … and that’s important
for residents and visitors to the city to realise,” Mr Dasey said. “Anyone can use the defib in the event of an emergency, it’s a simple device to activate. “We would also remind people that it’s so important to also call Triple Zero and get professional help on the way in the event of any emergency.” Other recommendations summarised from the assessment report include: • Targeted education and information – to highlight risk-taking
behaviour and increase awareness of aquatic recreation dangers in and around inland waterways. • Establish a designated swimming area – this will allow for better hazard identification and control, providing an opportunity for safer water recreation, noting that all aquatic recreation carries inherent risks. • Establish a management plan – this will detail operational responsibilities and requirements in regard to inspections, maintenance and water
monitoring. • Establish an emergency action plan - to be completed in consultation with Royal Life Saving and other rescue stakeholders. • Monitor water quality – Council currently undertakes a comprehensive water testing scheme of the river, both upstream and downstream of the city. Testing of Wagga Beach will be included. • Monitor and review Council's Inland Water Safety Management Plan and associated risk assessments.
Creative Project EOI Simmons Street Park Pump Station Wagga Wagga City Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from experienced artists to deliver a skills development program that will produce a creative treatment to refresh the Simmons Street Park Pump Station, Wagga Wagga. The project is to be delivered during school Term 1 or Term 2 in 2022 and will be delivered in partnership with the Wagga Wagga Public School students and school community. Applications close 11:59pm AEST, Monday 8 November 2021. For more information and the project brief head to: publicartwagga.com.au/apply
LIFESAVING DEFIB: Royal Lifesaving NSW Riverina Regional Manager Mick Dasey (left) and Council’s Strategic Recreation Officer Peter Cook at Wagga Wagga Beach with the new defibrillator installed this week.
1300 292 442
publicart@wagga.nsw.gov.au
publicartwagga.com.au
Council News - A City of Wagga Wagga publication
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weekly MOWING
R E P O R T
For the week commencing 1 November 2021, we’ll be mowing in the following locations:
• Central Wagga Wagga and roundabouts • East Wagga Wagga • Tarcutta village
Public Notices
holidays excluded) within the exhibition period. The draft documents can also be accessed from Council’s website at wagga.nsw. gov.au/public or at connect.wagga.nsw.gov. NORTHERN au/northerngrowtharea. GROWTH AREA Submission Procedure: INFRASTRUCTURE Submissions must be CONTRIBUTIONS in writing and may be Council hereby gives delivered to Wagga public notice of the Wagga City Council, exhibition of draft mailed to the General Appendix G to the Local Manager, emailed to Infrastructure Contributions council@wagga.nsw.gov. Plan for River Road, au or made at connect. draft Estella, Boorooma, wagga.nsw.gov.au/ Gobbagombalin, River northerngrowtharea. Road Development Any submission received Servicing Plan (DSP) within the submission Stormwater Addendum period will be subject and draft River Road DSP to the Government Sewer Addendum. The Information (Public Access) draft documents will be on exhibition from 17 October Act 2009 and the Privacy and Personal Information 2021 for a period of 28 days. Council invites public Protection Act (PIPPA) and may be attached to the submissions on the draft final report to Council, documents, to be lodged in its entirety or in part, by 29 November 2021. Inspection Venue: Wagga unless explicitly requested by the person making the Wagga City Council, submission that they do Cnr Baylis & Morrow Sts, not wish this to occur. Any Wagga Wagga, during questions relating to the the hours of 9am to 5pm draft documents should Monday to Friday (public
be referred to Belinda Maclure on 1300 292 442.
PROPOSED TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE (BOILING DOWN ROAD – CULVERT REPLACEMENT WORKS)
Notice is hereby given under Roads Act 1993 Part 8 Division 4 of the temporary closing of: Road: Boiling Down Road (Redbank Road to Plumpton Road) Date: 02 November 2021 to 04 November 2021 Duration: 7am – 5pm weekdays, weather permitting Reason: Closed for culvert replacement works. Access to local residential and business traffic only
PROPOSED TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE (EATON STREET – ROAD WORKS) Notice is hereby given under Roads Act 1993 Part 8 Division 4 of the temporary closing of:
• Tatton • Tolland • Turvey Park • Springvale Road: Eaton Street Date: 1 November 2021 to 12 November 2021 Duration: 7am – 4pm weekdays, weather permitting Reason: Closed for road works. Access to local residential traffic only
PROPOSED TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE (KOORINGAL ROAD STAGE 3 – ROAD REHABILITATION)
Notice is hereby given under Roads Act 1993 Part 8 Division 4 of the temporary closing of: Road: Kooringal Road (Mena Street to Vincent Road) Date: 25 October 2021 to 20 December 2021 Duration: 7am – 5pm weekdays, 8am to 5pm Saturdays were required, weather permitting Reason: Closed for road rehabilitation. Access to local residential and business traffic only
Peter Thompson, General Manager
WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL. PUBLIC NOTICE – PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS. as per Section 418 (3) of the Local Government Act. In accordance with Section 418 (3) of the Local Government Act 1993, Wagga Wagga City Council advises that the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on 29 November 2021 will include the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditors Reports for the financial year ending 30 June 2021. A summary of the Financial Statements is provided below: 2021
2020
$'000
$'000
Total Income from Continuing Operations
173,099
153,739
Total Expenses from Continuing Operations
131,620
132,779
Income Statement
Operating Result from Continuing Operations
41,479
20,960
Net Operating Result for the year
41,479
20,960
(12,232)
(13,287)
Net Operating Result before Grants & Contributions Provided for Capital Purposes Statement of Financial Position Total Current Assets Total Current Liabilities Total Non-Current Assets Total Non-Current Liabilities Total Equity
92,298
69,871
(53,173)
(44,087)
1,607,214
1,558,211
(63,360)
(65,238)
1,582,979
1,518,757
Other Financial Information Unrestricted Current Ratio (times)
2.54x
2.43x
Operating Performance Ratio (%)
-7.31%
-4.98%
Debt Service Cover Ratio (times)
4.19x
4.56x
5.12%
5.20%
Infrastructure Renewals Ratio (%)
76.93%
131.12%
Own Source Operating Revenue Ratio (%)
60.90%
66.78%
12.78
11.76
Rates & Annual Charges Outstanding Ratio (%)
Cash Expense Cover Ratio (months)
In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act 1993, any person may make a submission in writing to Council with respect to the Council’s Audited Financial Statements or the Auditor’s Reports. Copies of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports may be inspected at: • Civic Centre, Corner of Baylis and Morrow Streets, Wagga Wagga • Council’s website – wagga.nsw.gov.au Submissions close one week after the above Public Meeting has been held.
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
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COLLABORATIVE EFFORT: Regional artists (from left) Gregory Carosi, Jhi Rayner, and Charles Sykes are developing a new performance as part of their RAD Residency at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery’s E3 art space.
Collaborative art projects come to life at the Gallery
Three regional artists have joined forces to use their interdisciplinary art practices to develop a new performance at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery on Thursday and Friday next week (4 & 5 November). Charles Sykes, Gregory Carosi and Jhi Rayner are developing the performance as part of Wagga Wagga Art Gallery’s Regional Artist Development (RAD) Residency program. The residency program focuses on the development and mentoring of regional artists by providing recipients with a spacious studio environment to pursue their arts practice across a four-week period. “There is a lot of excitement and anticipation as to how the three artists will transform an exhibition space into a cutting-edge theatre,” Art Gallery Director Dr Lee-Anne Hall said. “The trio has worked solidly to produce a short theatrical performance, where the conversations with local people form the basis of a hilarious and relatable show.” For Wagga-based visual artist Gregory Carosi, the RAD Residency is his first foray into theatre set design – from largeformat gallery pieces to an even more immersive challenge. “A play devised, workshopped, refined and performed, complete
Nominate a ‘Slow Down’ street
Speed is still one of the highest factors in Wagga Wagga crashes and as part of a wider community initiative Wagga Wagga City Council is encouraging road users to slow down when driving on local streets. In consultation with the Wagga Wagga community and NSW Police, community members can voice their concern by nominating their street to be part of the “Slow Down” program. The “Slow Down” road safety project is jointly funded by Wagga Wagga City Council and Transport for NSW with support from NSW Police. It reinforces that speeding is not acceptable on the city’s streets. Council’s Road Safety Officer Emma Reynolds said according to Centre for Road Safety’s 2015- 2019 statistics, 18.1 per cent of crashes in
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with sets and other props including masks and cardboard cut-outs is no small undertaking,” Mr Carosi said. Artistic Director of Wagga Wagga based Freeroam Theatre Jhi Rayner said it is important for emerging and established artists to have a base of support, like that provided by the Art Gallery. “Most of the time we have to work from home, so it’s great to be able to come to a productive, beautiful space with a great view to do your practice,” Mr Rayner said. “I hope the RAD residency sticks around and more people get involved.” Emerging drama artist Charles Sykes is enjoying trying something new and working with this multidisciplinary medium through the RAD program. “Communities need projects like this. It will give audiences an opportunity to witness something radical and unique,” he said. “I hope the content of our residency resonates with those who have been feeling the effects of lockdown.” Four shows will be held across two nights on Thursday 4 November and Friday 5 November. To book your tickets, visit waggaartgallery.com.au/ programs
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Wagga involve speeding. “Speeding is one of the most common factors associated with road crashes,” Mrs Reynolds said. “By working together on this campaign, we can all deliver a strong message to passing drivers that speeding is not acceptable on our streets.” Council is offering free “Slow Down” reflective wheelie bin stickers, which highlight the lower speed limits that are in place in built-up residential areas. Residents can apply the sticker to their garbage bin as an ongoing visual reminder for motorists to slow down in local streets. Nominations close on 17 November 2021. Visit wagga.nsw. gov.au/roadsafety and follow the link to Nominate My Street. THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISING FEATURE BY WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL