Inside Ashburton December 2015
In This Issue Ashburton re-elects Cr White as Shire President
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Construction begins on new Childcare Centre
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Onslow Airport officially opens
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Mental Health Month enhances our wellbeing
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Residents make their pledge
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Para Colour Fun Run
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Pannawonica Auskick’s AFL debut The Pannawonica Auskick team travelled to Perth in August to take the field during half time in the Melbourne vs Fremantle AFL game.
Of course, the pinnacle of the trip was playing at Domain Stadium in front of a packed crowd during the half time Auskick game.
There was a momentous build up to the trip with the children enthusiastically practicing their skills during the weekly Auskick sessions, as well as many hours spent kicking the footy in the backyard. The entire Pannawonica community supported the team and hosted a variety of fundraising events which helped make the trip possible.
The team stayed in group accommodation at Leederville and enjoyed a school camp like atmosphere with shared meals, bus travel and great camaraderie. The behavior of the Pannawonica kids was outstanding and all involved felt proud to be a part of such a memorable weekend.
The group began their adventure with a well-timed arrival at Perth airport allowing them to see the West Coast Eagles depart and the Melbourne Football Club arrive.
The Pannawonica Junior Sports Committee thanked their sponsors and the community for assisting in many different ways to make the weekend a possibility.
Making the most of every opportunity while in Perth there was a visit to Beatty Park Aquatic Centre, a tour of Domain Stadium, Q&A session with Fremantle players Tom Sheridan and Zac Clarke, attendance at the East Perth v Subiaco WAFL match, a visit to Aerial Fun trampoline centre and a tour of the Fremantle Football Club hosted by players Lockie Weller and Ed Langdon. All smiles at Domain Stadium
Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 1
Construction begins for new Onslow Shire Complex The beginning of construction for the new Onslow Shire complex was celebrated in August, marking a significant milestone in rebuilding the town’s facilities since the Shire office, hall and library were lost in a fire in 2013. The new Onslow Shire Complex will include a town hall, public library, council chamber, meeting rooms, office space, function kitchen and a Wheatstone Information Centre.
“Once constructed the Onslow Shire Complex will again be the hub of the Onslow community with many of the town’s services and facilities located under the one roof,” said Cr White. “The partnership between the Shire and Chevron has enabled new and improved infrastructure to be developed, which enhances the lifestyle of our town.” The past 18 months has seen the following activities undertaken as the project prepares for construction:
The budget for the project is $9.5m including a contribution of $2 million from the Chevron-operated Wheatstone Project and the remainder from the Shire of Ashburton.
• Demolition and clean-up of site and upgrade of existing facilities in alternative locations to rehouse staff affected by the fire
Shire President Kerry White says that Council is grateful that a contribution to this project has been secured and that Chevron continues to deliver their generous commitment to the Onslow community.
• Council and community work on concept plans for the new facility, detailed architectural design planning
• Settlement of the insurance claim
• Securing budget and other funding • Tender development and award
Chevron Australia Managing Director Roy Krzywosinski, Premier Colin Barnett, Shire President Kerry White and acting CEO Maurice Ferialdi
• Council planning approval, amalgamation of lots and building approval. It is anticipated that the Onslow Shire Complex will open its doors late next year. This activity met Community Goal 4 of the Corporate Business Plan, Distinctive & Well Serviced Places.
Ashburton re-elects Cr White as Shire President The October election saw Cr White returned to the Onslow Ward. Other returning councillors, Cr Lorraine Thomas (Tableland Ward), Cr Rumble (Paraburdoo Ward) and Cr Peter Foster (Tom Price Ward), were all elected unopposed.
Shire of Ashburton Council, with CEO Neil Hartley
The Shire of Ashburton Council has re-elected Cr Kerry White as Shire President unopposed, and Cr Linton Rumble as Deputy, at the October Council Meeting where all newlyelected councillors were sworn in following the Local Government Elections in October.
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Two councillor retirements saw a new councillor in the Ashburton Ward, Cr Glen Dellar, elected unopposed with Cr Melanie Gallanagh now representing the Pannawonica Ward following the election. The Shire President welcomed the new councillors to their first Council meeting, and congratulated the re-elected councillors. “I am confident the new Council will continue to work hard together to continue
the great progress we are making in the Shire of Ashburton,” Cr White said. “The Shire of Ashburton, and its Council, is enjoying a period of stability and from this our community will see excellent progress being made in all areas of our Shire. “I would also like to thank the contribution to Council by our two retiring councillors, Cr Ann Eyre and Cr Dennis Wright, who dedicated their time and passion to our community and region.”
This activity met Community Goal 5 of the Corporate Business Plan, Inspiring Governance.
A glimpse into the last century Hidden in the back of a storeroom, wrapped in brown paper and sitting inconspicuously in the corner, Shire record’s staff recently discovered a treasure of local history. Once unwrapped, the identity of the longforgotten archives revealed themselves to be a collection of fragile records dating back more than a hundred years. Once unwrapped, the identity of the longforgotten archives revealed themselves to be a collection of fragile records dating back more than a hundred years. Old rates books, ship and pearl dealer licenses and Council minutes, all painstakingly handwritten in various forms of ink, tell an interesting story of our coastal, pastoral and mining history. An important chronicle of our region’s past, the books have now been carefully sent to the State Records Office where they will be housed under proper storage conditions to ensure their longevity. This activity met Community Goal 5 of the Corporate Business Plan, Inspiring Governance.
A glimpse into our past
Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 3
Construction begins on new Childcare Centre Headworks for Paraburdoo’s new Childcare Centre commenced in late October, and the official turning of the sod ceremony was held on 19 November. Officiated by Shire President Kerry White, Rio Tinto General Manager Greater Paraburdoo Operations Gabrielle Iwanow and Vincent Catania MLA, the turning of the sod marked an exciting milestone in this major project. Attended by members of the local community, Shire councillors and staff from Rio Tinto and the Shire of Ashburton, the ceremony was followed by a morning tea and display of work undertaken by the partnership. Pindan Contracting is expected to mobilise to Paraburdoo in early December and the first stage of construction will begin soon after. This activity met Community Goal 4 of the Corporate Business Plan, Distinctive & Well Serviced Places.
PARABURDOO CHILDCARE CENTRE
The new Childcare Centre is underway
Paraburdoo Skate Park Kids of all ages have been enthusiastically watching the construction of the new Paraburdoo Skate Park, which began in early October.
Paraburdoo Grande Ball Paraburdoo became a Winter Wonderland in August as the Ashburton Hall was transformed with chandeliers, shimmering lights and stunning decorations. Two hundred residents attended the Paraburdoo Grande Ball in their best finery and enjoyed a night of great company, beautiful food and lively entertainment. There were plenty of prizes won throughout the evening and event MC Steve Wiseman made sure the ball was a night of laughs, fun and dancing. The success of the evening was made possible through the support from local businesses and community groups who provided prize donations and event volunteers. Paraburdoo Primary School P&C assisted with food service while
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Photos by Paragon Photography & Design
the Paraburdoo Private and Volunteer Rescue Services helped staff the bar area. Congratulations to the Paraburdoo Red Dirt Rocks Committee for organising such a spectacular event.
The park is expected to be open for use in time for Christmas and will be a popular destination during the summer school holidays. Keep your eye out for details of the official opening event.
Onslow Airport officially opens The redeveloped Onslow Airport was officially opened in August with a joint ceremony by the Premier Colin Barnett, Shire President Kerry White and Chevron Australia Managing Director Roy Krzywosinski. An afternoon tea at the airport was attended by 110 guests, including members of the Onslow community, business and government representatives. Shire President Kerry White welcomed the guests, as the working terminal ‘buzzed’ with airport patrons disembarking and boarding their flights. Before jointly unveiling the plaque with the Premier and Mr Krzywosinski, Cr White gave a speech thanking all of those who had made the work on the airport possible, including funding from the Chevronoperated Wheatstone Project and the State Government through Royalties for Regions. “The Onslow Airport is the most expensive and complex piece of infrastructure the Shire has ever built,” Cr White said. “The project, which has had its challenges along the way, ended up costing $49 million and took about four years to complete. Onslow businesses benefited directly during the construction phase and most of the staff at the airport today live in Onslow. The Onslow community overall will benefit from this significant asset with its potential to boost tourism and business that simply would not have happened without the Wheatstone project.” Chevron Australia Managing Director Roy Krzywosinski said the event marked a
Left to Right: Chevron Australia Managing Director Roy Krzywosinski, Shire President Kerry White and Premier Colin Barnett
significant milestone for Chevron, the State Government, the Shire of Ashburton and the local community. “For Chevron, it has allowed us to safely and efficiently transport the Wheatstone workforce to site, and also realises a commitment we made to help build a legacy asset that would benefit Onslow for decades to come. “To see our shared vision of a jet-capable airport come to life and to celebrate community access to Wheatstone charter flights, it’s a moment we can all be extremely proud of,” Mr Krzywosinski said.
This activity met Community Goal 4 of the Corporate Business Plan, Distinctive & Well Serviced Places.
Office closure over festive season Shire offices in Tom Price, Paraburdoo, Onslow and Pannawonica will close over the Christmas and New Year festive season from noon Wednesday 23 December, re-opening 9am Monday 4 January 2016.
Emergency contact, rubbish collection and tip opening times during this period will be available at the Shire’s website at www.ashburton.wa.gov.au We wish all of our residents and readers a very happy and safe festive season.
Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 5
Mental Health Month enhances our wellbeing The Shire, in partnership with Rio Tinto, proactively supported the promotion of positive mental health throughout the month of October to maximise awareness within the community. A number of fun and informative activities were hosted across Paraburdoo, Tom Price and Pannawonica, with some of the highlights being: • A Mental Health Market Day – including a pledge wall encouraging people to commit to doing something positive, as well as a mindfulness colouring-in competition. • The Wellbeing Wood in Pannawonica, where residents were invited to leave positive and inspiring comments. • A Pooch Play Date held at the Dog Park in Tom Price on World Mental Health Day. Research shows that dog ownership can reduce depression, anxiety and loneliness. • Emotional Resilience and Peak Performance workshops, facilitated by internationally recognised psychologist Steve Wells. • Conflict Resolution workshops, facilitated by Alan Adams, a wellrespected facilitator in behavioural change in the workplace.
Wonderful Panna As part of Mental Health Month, the locals in Pannawonica again put on their happy faces and created an amazing video to showcase our wonderful world. Starring talent of all ages from the business, sporting and recreational community, this year’s video is a testament to the camaraderie that is the foundation of Pannawonica’s community. “Wonderful Panna” can be viewed on YouTube.
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• Yoga and Pilates workshops. • The Great Camp out in Pannawonica, where families spent a fun-filled evening camping at the rodeo grounds. • The Para Colour Fun Run, with all funds raised donated to beyondblue. The Shire of Ashburton have a Community Partner agreement to operate the ActBelong-Commit Program under the support of Mentally Healthy WA, with the mission to enhance people’s mental health and wellbeing by strengthening individual resilience and building community cohesion. The goal of the Act-Belong-Commit campaign is to encourage people to become more proactive about their mental health. Being active, having a sense of belonging and having a purpose in life all contribute to happiness and good mental health.
Proud colouring-in winners
The Shire would like to thank the Men’s Shed in Paraburdoo and Tom Price, Karingal, Nintirri, Sonic Health, and all of the local community groups, who helped support Mental Health Month.
This activity met Community Goal 1 of the Corporate Business Plan, Vibrant & Active Communities.
Tom Price Men’s Shed support the pledge wall
Shire revises Procurement Policy The Shire has recently amended its Procurement Policy and Procedures to provide an even higher level of accountability, transparency and efficiency for suppliers and Shire officers. Amendments to purchasing thresholds and the requirements concerning those thresholds feature strongly in the new policy and procedures. Shire officers now have greater flexibility to exercise professional judgment and discretion when procuring goods or services under $2,500. Verbal quotations must be sought for expenditure between $2,500 and $10,000. Expenditure with a value greater than $10,000 and less than $150,000 will
now be sought via a Formal Request for Quotation process and released publically via TenderLink. Expenditure with a value greater than $150,000 must be managed via a Public Tender process. TenderLink In line with the new Procurement Policy and Procedures, the Shire will now issue formal Request for Quotations and Request for Tenders via the eProcurement Portal, TenderLink. TenderLink is free for suppliers to register and use. Once registered, suppliers will receive notification of all Request for Quotations and Request for Tenders the Shire of Ashburton releases.
The Shire’s current suppliers are encouraged to register with TenderLink to continue to receive opportunities to do business with the Shire. To register your business with the Shire of Ashburton’s TenderLink portal, simply go to www.tenderlink.com/ashburton to begin the registration process. To view the Shire’s policies on procurement, please visit www.ashburton.wa.gov.au
This activity met Community Goal 5 of the Corporate Business Plan, Inspiring Governance.
Tom Price Onslow Kids Kitchen Library Garden launches new Book Club cook book If you enjoy reading books and would like to discuss characters, storylines, twists and turns with other avid readers then it’s time to join the Tom Price Library Book Club. The club meets in the library once a month, on a Saturday morning, in a relaxed and comfortable setting. If you are interested to join, talk to the lovely library staff for more information or call 9188 5455.
The Onslow Kids Kitchen Garden recently launched their first cook book, a compilation of recipes students have been preparing in the garden and at the school over the last three years. As well as an array of delicious recipes the book also includes tips and nutritional information along with a list of the many fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers that have been grown in the Onslow Kids Kitchen Garden.
With ideas for every meal and every occasion, the Onslow Kids Kitchen Garden includes easy to prepare recipes for dips, drinks, soups, snacks, side dishes, mains, food art and sweet treats. Copies of the cook book are available from the Onslow Primary School and Shire Administration.
Made possible through the support of the Chevron-operated Wheatstone Project, copies of the cook book have been distributed free-of-charge to the local community. And, if the recipes are not enough to entice you, the cook book also showcases a stunning visual display of the garden, the students and the many fruits of their labour.
Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 7
Paraburdoo drainage gets an overhaul The Shire’s Infrastructure Services team has been working over the past 18 months with a full program of works. The Paraburdoo Stormwater Drainage Renewal project has been a major element of the program and approximately half of the 2015/2016 work is now completed.
• Worked at 30 separate work sites • Engaged 13 separate contractors/ suppliers • Located and renewed previously unidentified pipe networks. This is in addition to approximately 1040m of pipework renewed in 2014.
Since May this year the team has:
Combined, approximately 30% of the entire pipe drainage network in the Paraburdoo townsite has been upgraded.
• Installed 1420m of new pipe work • Installed 7 new headwalls • Installed 15 new junction pits • Undertaken 9 road crossings
The drainage program has been executed in a complex working environment, with aging underground services, whilst taking into consideration
the needs of the residents living there. A strong working relationship between the Shire and Rio Tinto Utilities, who are the custodians of the town water, sewer and power services, has proven vital in ensuring the best possible outcomes. The Shire would like to thank the residents of Paraburdoo for their patience as these much needed works has been completed. This activity met Community Goal 4 of the Corporate Business Plan, Distinctive & Well Serviced Places.
Community Support Grants boost local clubs The Shire of Ashburton provides a donations program to support community initiatives that strengthen the sense of community connectedness and sustainability within each of its towns. Through the program financial assistance is given to not-for-profit community, sporting, cultural and service groups, as well as individuals, to deliver high quality programs, community events, facilities and/or services that directly benefit the residents of the Shire of Ashburton. Community funding is available as a cash donation or as an in-kind donation in the form of venue hire etc. There are two types of funding assistance offered through the Shire: the Small Assistance Donation scheme for groups that are not incorporated and the Community Support Grant for larger incorporated groups. The Community Support Grant is offered via two funding rounds, one opening in July and closing in August and one opening in February and closing in March.
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The latest round of funding for the Community Support Grant closed on 31 August, with 25 applications received, seeing just over $31,000 provided to local clubs and groups within our four towns. “The Shire’s donations program is a key component of our community support efforts,” said Shire President Kerry White. “The Support Grant and Small Assistance Donation help the community access funding for projects and events that benefit our residents.” The Small Assistance Donation scheme provides up to $500 for smaller project or events. Groups can apply more than once through the year as long as the annual total requested does not exceed $500. To apply for a Small Assistance Donation no form is required, simply forward a letter of request including your bank account details to the Executive Director Community Development via cdemanager@ashburton.wa.gov.au or PO Box 567, Tom Price WA 6751.
Applications for the next round of Community Support Grants opens in February to groups and clubs who are incorporated, for up to $2500. An application form is available on the publications page at www.ashburton. wa.gov.au and must be submitted with details of the proposed project and how it will benefit residents of the Shire. For assistance in preparing your application, or to discuss which grant you may be eligible for, please contact Simmone Van Buerle, Club and Capacity Development Manager, on 9188 5448 or via Active.Ashburton@ashburton.wa.gov.au This activity met Community Goal 1 of the Corporate Business Plan, Vibrant & Active Communities.
Visitor Centres become more visible Attractive new signs have been installed at the Tom Price and Onslow Visitor Centres. The new signs are part of the Shire’s tourism brand and certainly make the Visitor Centres easier to find for tourists – and locals – alike.
New website for Tom Price Visitor Centre The Shire of Ashburton has launched a new website for the Tom Price Visitor Centre, showcasing the beauty of the Pilbara and the magnificence of Karijini and Millstream Chichester National Parks. Highlighting the range of tourist attractions, accommodation options and tours, as well as the spectacular scenery, the new website is a valuable resource for local, national and international tourists.
The Tom Price signs reflect the rich red colours of Karijini, while Onslow has a coastal theme. The new signs at Tom Price Visitor Centre are the first stage of a ‘mini-makeover’ for the area which will also soon see an upgrade of the interior of the Centre.
Also including information for tourists wanting to explore the Mackerel Islands, or further afield into the Kimberley, the website is a gateway to all the information you need to plan your next holiday.
Attractive landscaping out the front will complement the new sign, bus shelter and seating.
www.tomprice.org.au
This activity met Community Goal 4 of the Corporate Business Plan, Distinctive & Well Serviced Places. New signs welcome tourists
Onslow VC Sign
Residents make their pledge Shire councillors have had the privilege of officiating a number of recent citizenship ceremonies, and welcoming residents as new Australian citizens into our local community. Congratulations to our newest Australian citizens: • Mr Chaminda Sucharitha Gunawardana Wiyalagoda Kankanamalage • Mr Yuhan Gemunu Samarawickrama • Mr Thomas Flannery Details on how to apply for citizenship, including relevant forms, can be found on the Department of Border Protection website www.citizenship.gov.au
Chaminda celebrates his new citizenship
This activity met Community Goal 1 of the Corporate Business Plan, Vibrant & Active Communities.
Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 9
Para Colour Fun Run The spirit of community was very much alive as residents from Paraburdoo and Tom Price took part in the Para Colour Fun Run. Held on 23 October at the Peter Sutherland Oval, the event was once again a great success raising more than $2,500 for beyondblue. Now in its second year, the Colour Run attracted 318 participants of all ages, who joined in the fun across the 1km and 3km course. With over 900 bags of colour used, everyone had a great time and finished the course in a myriad of multi colours. Hosted by the Para Men’s Shed as part of Mental Health Month, the event promoted the benefit of a healthy and active lifestyle, while encouraging family friendly participation and fundraising.
Photo by Paragon Photography & Design
Here’s how we’re tracking AQUATIC CENTRE
SHIRE COMPLEX
BASKETBALL COURTS
SKATE PARK
CHILDCARE CENTRE
OCEAN VIEW CARAVAN PARK (STAGE1)
Apr 2015
May 2015
Jun 2015
Onslow
Jul 2015
Aug 2015
Sep 2015
Oct 2015
Nov 2015
Paraburdoo
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Dec 2015
Jan 2016
Feb 2016
Mar 2016
Apr 2016
May 2016
Construction Commencement
Jun 2016
Jul 2016
Aug 2016
Sep 2016
Oct 2016
Nov 2016
Dec 2016
Mosquito Control Measures We have seen an increase in mosquitoes this year due to more pooling water at numerous sites within close proximity to our towns. The Shire undertakes a yearly program of treatments targeting the larval stage of the breeding cycle and has also implemented fogging in an effort to reduce the adult mosquito population. The lifecycle of a mosquito After the adult mosquitoes have emerged they leave the breeding sites to seek out food and resting places such as backyard gardens, reserves and natural bushland. Once mated, the female will seek blood meals and then return to the breeding grounds to lay her eggs. She will then return back to feed and rest. Males will feed on nectar and plant juices but do not seek blood. Mosquitoes do not breed in vegetation like long grass and trees, but seek shelter in these environments.
What can I do? Mosquitoes require a source of water to complete their lifecycle, so if you have containers that hold water and are not cleaned or emptied on a regular basis, mosquitoes may be breeding in those areas. Residents can minimise mosquito breeding around the home by taking some simple steps such as: • Dispose of all containers which hold water • Stock ornamental ponds with fish and keep vegetation away from the water’s edge • Keep swimming pools well chlorinated, filtered and free of dead leaves • Fill or drain depressions in the ground that hold water • Fit mosquito proof covers to vent pipes on septic tank systems. Seal all gaps around the lid and ensure leach drains are completely covered • Screen rainwater tanks with insect proof mesh, including inlet, overflow and inspection ports
Fight the Bite is an initiative of the Government of South Australia. This artwork has been reprinted with permission from SA Health
• Ensure guttering does not hold water • Empty pot plant drip trays once a week or fill them with sand • Empty and clean animal and pet drinking water bowls once a week. If you are concerned about a potential mosquito breeding source please contact the Shire.
15–22 April 2016 | karijiniexperience.com
SO MANY EXPERIENCES TO EXPLORE Inside Ashburton | December 2015 | 11
Upcoming Events December 2015 - February 2016 Date
Event
Location
Saturday 5 December
Active Ashburton Sports Star Awards
Tom Price
Saturday 5 December
Thank a Volunteer Day Morning Tea
Tom Price
Sunday 6 December
Christmas Carols
Tom Price
Wednesday 9 December
Council Meeting
Multi-Purpose-Centre, Onslow
Friday 11 December
Networking Morning Tea
Paraburdoo
Friday 11 December
Christmas Lights tour and judging
Tom Price, Paraburdoo & Pannawonica
Friday 11 December
Christmas Carols
Pannawonica
Saturday 12 December
Christmas Festivities
Onslow
Sunday 13 December
Christmas Carols
Paraburdoo
Mon 11 – Fri 22 Jan
School Holiday Program
Tom Price, Pannawonica & Paraburdoo
Monday 18 – Friday 29 Jan
School Holiday Program
Onslow
Tuesday 26 January
Australia Day
All towns
Friday 12 February
Networking Morning Tea
Paraburdoo
Friday 19 February
Welcome Event
Onslow
DECEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Administration Centre Poinciana Street, Tom Price WA 6751 PO Box 567 Phone: (08) 9188 4444 Freecall: 1800 679 232 Fax: (08) 9189 2252 Freecall Fax: 1800 655 086 Email: soa@ashburton.wa.gov.au
www.ashburton.wa.gov.au
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Inside Ashburton Publication is produced by the Shire of Ashburton. Editor: Narelle Steele Contributors: Kylie Hartley, Simmone Van Buerle, Emma Heys Photo contributors: Paragon Photography, Nat Franzanelli, Narelle Steele, Elly Lukale Template Design: Design Collision Issue Design & Printing: Advance Press If you have a story for the next “Inside Ashburton” contact media@ashburton.wa.gov.au
Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/shireofashburton DISCLAIMER: This newsletter is for general information purposes only. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Shire of Ashburton. The Shire has taken all measures to ensure the contents in this publication is correct, however it accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or the completeness of the material. Readers are advised not to rely solely on this information when making any decision. The Shire of Ashburton reserves the right to change the publication as it sees fit. The Shire of Ashburton disclaims any responsibility or duty of care towards any person for loss or damage suffered as a result of this newsletter. COPYRIGHT: The contents of this newsletter are subject to copyright under the laws of Australia. The copyright in materials in this newsletter as a whole is owned by the Shire of Ashburton. Third parties may own the copyright in some materials incorporated into this newsletter. In reference to the Copyright Act 1968, please feel free to reproduce parts of this newsletter for personal, educational or any other non-commercial purposes, provided that the Shire is aware of this.