LG Focus - November 2021

VOLUME 37, NUMBER 11, NOVEMBER 2021

REGISTERED BY AUSTRALIA POST PRINT POST APPROVED PP 100001964 ISSN 0819–470X

Community pulls together As Australia makes its way slowly but surely along the Prime Minister’s ‘roadmap out of COVID-19’, many communities tally the costs and reflect on the lessons learned from yet another once-in-a-hundred-years crisis event.

Working within a small rural remote council has its challenges. But it also comes with many benefits.

Every staff member is not just a council worker, but is also an important member of a close-knit community through social, sporting or cultural ties.

This was brought home for the staff based at the Wilcannia office of Central Darling Shire Council, New South Wales, as they worked shoulder to shoulder with community volunteers, medical staff and emergency services as Wilcannia had become the latest COVID-19 Ground Zero.

Within days of being put into a state-wide lockdown on 14 August, the community rallied to support a suddenly growing number of

Council staff, army and police organise food drops for COVID-19 positive families.

COVID-19 positive residents.

This included the staff of Central Darling Shire.

Administration staff were now grocery warehouse managers and delivery people,

getting a crash course on how to properly kit out in full personal protection equipment; directors were triaging vaccination clinics, quickly learning medical terminology,

recording systems and reception; and satellite office staff, most working from home and hundreds of kilometres away from the centre of the action, were fielding calls from

media and concerned members of the public.

The Far West Local Health District led the response, ensuring testing clinics were up and running, getting COVID-19 positive people and close contacts into secure accommodation for isolation, which included marshalling a convoy of motorhomes placed at Council’s Victory Park Caravan Park.

But behind the scenes, parks and gardens staff, gangers, roadworkers, office staff, directors and the general manager were all on the ground, ensuring these sites were ready to house whatever infrastructure was needed.

Central Darling Shire covers a landmass the size of Tasmania and is around 900km from Sydney. With

four towns and three Council offices, most of which are two hours’ drive apart, the challenges are unique. The Shire has a total population of less than 1800 people and is in the Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas’ (SEIFA) top quintile for disadvantage.

Despite a total staff load of 50 people based throughout the Shire and across all areas of Council operations, Central Darling Shire works to build a strong collegiate community within its staff, and the growth in technology platforms has assisted with this.

A sense of community within the organisation set the foundations for staff to support each other, treat new and changing roles as a learning experience and bring that to the wider community.

Supporting refugees and asylum seekers Ballarat in central Victoria is home to a small number of Hazara Afghans and has been reminded by recent events in Afghanistan how important it is to embrace and support refugees and people seeking asylum.

The city is well positioned to provide support for this critical sector of the community as a Refugee Welcome Zone, an Intercultural City, a Welcoming City and a member of Mayors for Peace.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Daniel Moloney said Ballarat had benefited enormously from its multicultural community, and it was essential that the City continued to advocate for accepting and supporting a diverse multicultural community, particularly in this case those Afghans and Hazaras who have found sanctuary in Ballarat.

“Ballarat is a growth city and an important part of the foundation for growth is en-

suring we welcome and provide the necessary support platforms for our multicultural community.

“The recent events in Afghanistan serve as a timely reminder of how tough life can be for anyone coming to a new country and making a new start; often leaving loved ones behind in tenuous circumstances.”

Mayor Moloney recently wrote to the local Hazara community expressing support and empathy. He has also written to the Prime Minister and other Ministers in Federal Government extending the City’s support and making a commitment to work in partnership with all levels of government.

City of Ballarat is involved in a range of partnerships and networks that provide key services to asylum seekers and refugees, funding projects and activities by community groups and organisations supporting multicultural groups and advocating for appropriate services to support the needs of these groups.

“Ballarat is a Refugee Welcome Zone and supports the Refugee Council of Australia. We will stand in solidarity with Ballarat Rural Australians for Refugees, and the extensive network supporting refugees and people seeking asylum in Ballarat.

“We are all proud to have a terrific multicultural community that brings fresh ideas

City of Ballarat opens its heart to refugees and asylum seekers.

and creativity in abundance to our city. Our city is all the richer for the advantages

that this diversity brings, and it is essential in such hard times that we embrace and

support the Afghan community of Ballarat as they have embraced us.”

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NOVEMBER 2021

INSIDE THIS EDITION

EDITORIAL

PRESIDENT’S COMMENT

4

Jonathan Throssell President, LG Professionals Australia

THE GOOD OIL

6

Rod Brown

‘LOST BIRD FOUND’ FLIES AGAIN

7

COUNCILLOR PROFILES

8

Roslyn Talbot Mayor Copper Coast Council Ben Browne Mayor Northern Areas Council

FOCUS ON TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

As I muse about this, my fi nal editorial and ruminate on the role my sisters Eryl and Corinne Morgan played in starting up Local Government Focus and steering the newspaper through its fi rst 25 years, and how it then passed to me 10 years ago.

I remember how it was back then and wonder how far we have actually come in local government.

The front page of the first issue of Local Government Focus in October 1985 introduced itself to the sector as ‘Your new L.G. newspaper: for stirring the pot or wrapping the fish?’

As I look back to Volume 1 Number 1, I see much in local government has changed, while much is still the same.

In June 1988 one headline read Constitutional Recognition of LG – over to you.

Again in 1997, there was a report from the 4th National General Assembly (incidentally, the year of ALGA’s 50th Anniversary), which included plans for the pursuit of Con-

stitutional Recognition for Local Government.

Does anyone remember the National Constitutional Summit in December 2008? And when in 2011 the then Prime Minister agreed to a referendum by 2013.

A new taxation system arrived on 1 July 2000. While the states were the major beneficiaries, Local Government hoped it would be able to access some of the additional monies. ALGA President at the time, John Ross, said the association had argued for six percent of GST collected to be paid directly to local government, to replace FAGS and provide a funding stream with a built in growth element.

‘They were dreaming!’

LG Focus ran a series of articles in 2008 exploring local government as an equal partner in the Federation, looked at the sector’s image in the media. Victoria’s Age newspaper was at the time, running a series of articles questioning the future sustainability of local government, citing its loss

of powers to the states, and pointing to the diminishing diversity in candidates nominating for council elections blaming bullying. It went on to say that while similar or worse behaviour occurs in government at state and federal levels, it does not actually prove an obstacle to getting things done, whereas bad behaviour at the local government level can lead to the breakdown of the system; after all the effectiveness of a councillor depends on their capacity to cooperate with their colleagues.

All sates have seen the Local Government Act reviewed in recent years and all have revised codes of conduct and conflicts of interest, and while dysfunctional councils and councillors behaving badly will probably still occur in the future, it should be remembered that almost all nominees toss their hat into the ring for the betterment of their communities.

So, while funding deficits and cost shifting and conflicts

of interest continue to plague local government, many things have changed.

Women are represented in local government in far greater numbers in elected and executive positions, and with the help of goals and legislated targets, every election sees an improvement.

Councils are leading the way in sustainability through example – in how they conduct their own business, through education and advocacy, and by enabling their communities to become more sustainable.

The last two years have tested everyone. Local government has been called on to do more, to give more, and to be more than ever before. As borders open and we look forward to resuming some sense of normality, I sign off on behalf of the Morgan family and welcome the Star News Group who will continue LG Focus into the future.

Goodbye.

Jan Morgan Managing Editor

9-16

DIARY DATES SEGRA 2021

LGNSW ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2021 ONLINE

16-18 November 2021 Hosted by City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, WA Unearthing diversification and adapting to a new tomorrow, Australia’s premier conference on regional issues is about assisting regional, rural and remote Australia to source and identify the techniques, skills and issues they need to address to achieve successful economic growth and development. segra.com.au/registration

29 November 2021 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM As a result of COVID-19 constraints and the further postponement of local government elections, LGNSW is hosting a FREE one-hour online Annual Conference to present the annual report and financial reports exclusively for members.

Motions that are usually debated and resolved at LGNSW’s Annual Conference will be moved to the Special Conference, scheduled for 28 February - 2 March 2022. lgnsw.org.au Events calendar

CELEBRITY CHEFS SHOW BENDIGO TO THE WORLD 10

2021 PARKS AND LEISURE AUSTRALIA NATIONAL VIRTUAL CONFERENCE 23-24 November 2021 The PLA2021 Virtual Conference is a live event which explores new ways of working and how we are adapting to change, allowing us to celebrate our collective resilience and dedication to forge connections without boundaries for the betterment of our industry and community. pla2021.parksleisure.com.au/learning-and-events/ conference-pla/

WHERE THE COAST COMES TO LIFE

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS

NOVEMBER 2021

Aboriginal heritage digitised Events return this summer Hamilton Gallery, Southern Grampians Shire, Victoria, has embarked on a culturally significant collection project: to audit and digitise the largest and oldest collection of Australian Aboriginal objects on Gunditjmara country.

Hawkesbury City Council, New South Wales is excited to announce that in line with the New South Wales Government’s roadmap to reopening post COVID-19 lockdown, the Light Up Windsor Festival and Australia Day on the Hawkesbury 2022 will be going ahead.

It is anticipated that the State’s vaccination rates will surpass 90 percent in early December, allowing for all public events to return without attendance limits. Both events will have a COVID-safe plan in place and will adhere to any Public Health Orders in place at the time.

The Light Up Windsor Festival will launch on Saturday, 11 December 2021 with the annual street fair. The festival this year will include an exciting light display that will

feature on weekends through to Christmas Eve. Council received $60,500 from the Regional Tourism Bushfire Recovery Grant and $22,000 from Destination Sydney Surrounds North to create light projections on buildings in Windsor to contribute to the Light Up Windsor Festival.

The popular Australia Day on the Hawkesbury will also return on 26 January 2022, featuring live entertainment, carnival rides, fireworks,

community displays, food trucks, and more.

Hawkesbury City Mayor, Patrick Conolly said both events would be the perfect way to celebrate the end of COVID-19 lockdowns.

“After a tough year, this is the best news we could possibly imagine. Soon, it will be time to celebrate.

“The Light up Windsor Festival and Australia Day on the Hawkesbury are always fantastic days out for the family, and this year it will be extra special.”

Hamilton Gallery’s Aboriginal Digitisation Support Officer, Denise Lovett, with a Gunditjmara digging stick and coolamon.

Project Leader, Denise Lovett, a Gunditjmara woman with a strong background in Aboriginal heritage management and protection, worked with the Hamilton Gallery team for the past three months as their Aboriginal Digitisation Support Officer to analyse almost 100 works within the gallery collection, with a specific focus on Gunditjmara objects.

The project involved digitising many hand-crafted instruments by Gunditjmara peoples onto collection management software, capturing images and details of each item, managing records and ensuring key information is captured in relation to their background and cultural significance.

Lovett said it was a privilege to work with the largest, oldest collection of Aboriginal crafted objects on Gunditjmara country.

“There’s a small collection at the Dunkeld Museum, the Glenelg Shire Council office in Casterton, and other small collections in Warrnambool and Portland, but to have a collection of Aboriginal objects of this size and age is quite rare.”

Hamilton Gallery is the only gallery in Victoria to have had an identified officer as part of the state’s Regional Gallery Digitisation Project, and the process has laid strong foundations for future partnerships between the gallery and Gunditjmara First Nations.

The Regional Gallery Digitisation Project was funded through the Victoria Government’s Working for Victoria initiative, born from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In collaboration with Creative Victoria and Australian

Museums and Galleries Association Victoria, regional galleries could benefit from human resources dedicated to digitising their assets, including the 9000+ collection at Hamilton Gallery.

Hamilton Gallery Artistic Director, Joshua White, said; “This is just the fi rst step in developing a strong connection to the First Nations people of this region.

Denise has been wonderful to work with and has not only taught our staff and myself about these objects, but about Gunditjmara people and country.”

The gallery will also provide advice to Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation on the care and maintenance of the Aboriginal objects in the Keeping Place recently built at Lake Condah Mission.

Community votes Coorong District Council, South Australia, has held a community ballot asking if the mayor should be elected by the community or be chosen by Council.

In October 2021, ballot papers were posted to all Coorong electors asking them to vote on Council’s proposal to change to a community elected mayor.

Currently Coorong District Council is represented by nine councillors who are responsible for electing the Mayor from within the elected member body.

Mayor, Paul Simmons, said, “This is our community’s chance to decide how the LGFOCUS.COM.AU

Council’s principal member should be elected.”

The poll is the result of a representation review, which Coorong District Council commenced in early 2021.

South Australian councils are required under the Local Government Act 1999 to conduct an elector representation review every eight years, and examine whether a council would benefit from alteration to its composition, including

methodology for election of the Mayor, the number of councillors and whether wards were appropriate.

Asking electors to consider the method of electing the Mayor through a community poll is the final step in this process. Should the community support the proposal to change to an elected Mayor, the new leadership format would come into effect at the November 2022 Local Government elections.

Families celebrating at Light Up Windsor.

Christmas is coming early City of Greater Geelong, Victoria, will deliver an expanded program of free events and activities this year, including a Giant Christmas Selfie Trail across 22 destinations, to launch Christmas and support the local economy.

Deputy Mayor, Trent Sullivan, said, “With an iconic Christmas tree that illuminates Corio Bay, the City of Greater Geelong is Victoria’s home of Christmas this holiday season.

“It has been a tough year for residents and businesses so we’re lighting the way with a program of free events and activities so that everyone can experience the joy of Christmas.

“Our Christmas program provides an economic benefit to the region, boosts Geelong’s profile and spreads pride and Christmas cheer throughout the community.

“The Geelong region will be filled with music, shopping, projections, decorations and activity as we help residents and businesses to get into the Christmas spirit.”

Councillor, Eddy Kontelj said, “Given the challenging pandemic environment we have all been living through, we really want to create some positivity now, whilst also providing the community, including families and children, with something to look forward to and get excited about.

“From watching street performers or touring the selfie

trail, we want community members to have fun while supporting local jobs and businesses. Christmas is a great time to dine out with friends or bring a small team together while supporting the bars, cafes and restaurants that have been doing it tough.”

Councillor, Kylie Grzybek said the Giant Christmas Selfie Trail would feature 22 destinations across the region, including five interactive artworks across Corio, North Geelong, and Norlane.

“We’re creating experiences that are perfect for family photos and selfies. There will be Candy Canes, a Surfing Santa and of course some mistletoe. We can’t wait to

release the full Christmas program soon.”

Mayor, Stephanie Asher, said, “We love Christmas in Geelong so there’s nothing better than seeing the floating tree make its way to waterfront.

“Our Christmas program creates jobs for tradies, lighting experts, and children’s entertainers as well as generating income for hard working small business owners.

“Christmas in Geelong is a multicultural celebration and such a source of pride and joy for our community.”

More than 261,000 people attended last year’s Christmas program, which generated more than $20 million in economic output for the region.

Floating Christmas Tree is towed to Geelong Waterfront. Photo courtesy Pam Hutchinson.

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NOVEMBER 2021

President’s comment

Jonathan Throssell President, LG Professionals Australia August was a month of transition for Local Government Professionals Australia. Having served on the board since 2016, I am proud and humbled to be appointed President for the coming year. I would like to acknowledge and thank the board for their efforts over the past year, particularly former President, Victoria MacKirdy, who has been a visible champion for gender equity in our sector, and who so ably led the organisation through the headwinds which challenged us all.

I come to the presidency with a strong passion for local government and those professionals who work in the sector. I look forward to being a strong and visible champion for local government professionals at the helm of our national body.

In October I was pleased to announce the appointment

of senior property leader and diversity champion Catherine Carter as our new Chief Executive Officer. Catherine has a strong background and understanding of government, gained through experience as an industry leader, media commentator and ministerial staffer. Her highly-honed advocacy skills, strong association management skills, strategic thinking and large network will help us to expand our reach and influence at a mission-critical time for local government professionals across Australia.

Recently Catherine and I had an important opportunity to engage directly with the Federal Government in a meeting with Federal Assistant Minister for Local Government Kevin Hogan, where we discussed issues including the Federal Gov-

ernment’s economic stimulus spending, the work being done by Infrastructure Australia to support growth in regional centres, digitisation and sustainability, and future workforce planning.

The Minister accepted an invitation to speak at the first 2022 ‘Canberra, Behindthe-Scenes’ event in the new year. The Behind-the-Scenes program involves a series of meetings and briefings with the officials behind the policies and budgets that directly affect your councils and communities. Details and dates will be announced soon.

I’m excited to confirm the return of the Australasian Management Challenge in 2022. It is our hope that this Management Challenge series will be held in-person, rather than virtually, so teams get the very best from a fresh set of

challenges around team building, learning and networking using real local government themes. I know from personal experience – albeit 26 years ago when I left the Army and embarked on my career in local government – how valuable the experience can be. I would encourage all CEOs to begin thinking about the team members they would like to enrol in the 2022 program.

This November is awards season, with the Local Government Professionals National Federation Awards celebrating outstanding achievement in local government. The Federation Awards recognise and honour local government professionals for their efforts in making a difference in their communities, showcasing the innovative solutions that demonstrate leading practices,

delivering quality services and better outcomes for communities. The awards will be presented online in late November, with details to be confirmed shortly.

In closing, local government plays a critical role in bringing communities together and producing local solutions to local problems.

We all share the great honour of serving the community at the level of government closest to them. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and resilience of local government professionals over the past year and wish you every success continuing to serve and build better communities in 2022.

Community rallies Students’ artwork around Kindness Project encourages recycling Hollywood may be a world away from Bangholme, Victoria, but one of its movies has inspired a Greater Dandenong attraction to give back to the community in a creative way.

Student Voice Positive Choice (SVPC) is a collaboration of ten schools in the City of Palmerston, Northern Territory, that undertake annual student led programs designed to make positive contributions to their community.

Ian Clark, owner of Melbourne Cable Park, has set up a ‘Pay it Forward’ system to support registered charity, Kindness Community.

A COVID-19 kick start, Clark said it was during lockdown when the Park began selling take-away meals that they identified a need to reallocate leftover food.

“We approached the City of Greater Dandenong Council and they gave us the name of some suitable organisations. That’s how we connected with Danielle Ashley from the Kindness Community.

“The first week we had 30 meals to donate, and Danielle asked if they could heat them up in our kitchen. At the time, Kindness Community was serving meals in the park under shelter, so I helped to organise a Council building nearby to relaunch the meal centre indoors.”

Melbourne Cable Park now has incorporated the initiative into its online sales so when customers purchase tickets to the aqua fun park, they can also purchase a $5 hot meal for a disadvantaged person or contribute financially to the Kindness Community.

Danielle Ashley grew up in Dandenong and is the found-

This year the students chose recycling as the programs focus.

As part of the City of Palmerston’s community benefit scheme, the SVPC was awarded with an Environmental Initiative Grant of $7178, to assist in the development of educational recycling bin stickers to deliver the ‘responsible recycling’ message.

Students designed a residential recycling graphic to inspire the community to improve their recycling practices at home and three overall winners were chosen.

The winning designs will be featured on a ‘Recycle Right’ sticker to be placed on City of Palmerston’s recycling bins and will be delivered via the school community to over 5000 Palmerston households.

Demonstrating their commitment to sustainable living and reducing their impact on the environment, every year City of Palmerston collects an average of 1200 tonnes of waste from kerbside recycling bins. Only 39 percent of this waste ends up being recycled, as the rest is considered contaminated.

Council’s new eye-catching ‘Recycle Right’ bin stickers aim to help residents better understand what items should go in their recycling bin.

M a y o r, A t h i n a P a s coe-Bell, said, “Residents

4

Greater Dandenong business community rallies around Kindness Project.

er of Kindness Community, which began in March 2020 to assist with the issue of food security.

“Through Ian’s and our local contacts, we receive support from many amazing local businesses.”

Kindness Community now serves dinner to over 100 people a week, which includes a 6pm service each Tuesday night at Memorial Hall in Dandenong, and delivery of meals to Dandenong homeless shelters.

play an important role in keeping our city beautiful. It is fantastic to see the younger generation leading the way by encouraging everyone to think about their environmental impact and to recycle when they can.

“It was fantastic to collaborate with Student Voice

Positive Choice to educate and foster recycling among young people and their families. The students artwork reinforces the City of Palmerston’s recycling message through their bright, creative designs and we can’t wait to see them around Palmerston.

Final sticker design featuring students’ artwork.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS

NOVEMBER 2021

A timeline of how to prepare for disaster season

Disaster preparedness checklist

The prepper: five weeks out •

• •

Everyone loves the start of summer with its hot days, balmy nights and backyard barbeques.

But with the warmer months comes an increased risk of natural disasters – fire, heatwaves, floods and cyclones – across the country.

As we approach this summer season it’s important to be ready and like it or not, disaster season is a part of our Australian summers.

We know that staying connected is especially crucial when disasters happen.

It’s important to think ahead to make sure you can stay informed about conditions and connected with loved ones during an emergency.

Even if you don’t live in an area of high risk for cyclones, bushfires or flooding, you may work in or travel through a high-risk area, so it’s important

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

•

•

•

Get a corded phone

•

EFTPOS terminals are configured to use alternative connectivity in the event of a service disruption.

that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Whether you’re well prepared or are more likely to get your gear together on evacuation day, we’ve got a disaster preparedness checklist for you.

The just-in-case: five days out • •

Stay safe this summer.

•

To read more about how you can be prepared this summer season, go to exchange.telstra.com.au and search for disaster season.

Download emergency services apps Be alert to changing conditions Back up your data Save your emergency numbers as priorities Consider a satellite phone or repeater device

Invest in an alternative charger Know your plug for faster phone charging Enable Wi-Fi calling

The last minute: five hours out • • •

Charge your phone. Right now.

Use local information sources Gather your Government agencies for emergency response information

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NOVEMBER 2021

The Good Oil by Rod Brown

Cowra’s pitch to Hemsworth – first-mover for other councils!

Cowra’s recently successful, brazen pitch to Chris Hemsworth to be their Ambassador made headlines worldwide. Marvellous stuff.

I rang Cowra Shire’s Tourism Manager, Glenn Daley – the instigator – and he explained that it’s been good for tourism and for the town generally. Lots of shops have photos of Chris in their windows, and it’s been a hit on Instagram. I guess things will go really crazy when he does visit sometime next year.

It got me thinking. There are numerous councils out there with tiny marketing budgets. They could channel Cowra’s approach when the time is right, by seeking out notable Australians. Most would surely be chuffed to help with marketing and get their photos in windows? You could do even better.

To explain, a few years back Brighton Road Marketing had just completed a series of excellent video interviews with local legends in Central Darling Shire. The videos were part of a tourism marketing push.

I presume Cowra is thinking of a video with Chris Hemsworth? Would it be possible to include some local legends too? And could other communities be doing similar

videos of local legends and ‘notables’ with roots in a particular town.

For example, actor Ernie Dingo is proud of his Mullewa and Geraldton WA roots.

Comedian Barry Humphries has had a long association with Strathalbyn SA. Actor Michael Caton (The Castle) is also proud of his Monto Qld heritage. Comedian Fiona O’Loughlin hails from Warooka SA and Alice Springs.

And BBC TV host Adam Hills reminisces about his summer holidays with his granny at Tuross Head NSW. I’m thinking of approaching state tourism agencies on this possibility. Please email me if you’re interested.

US-Mexico collaboration takes new tack Mexican President Obrador wants Washington to invest in regional economic development. And United States Secretary of State Blinken agrees with him, calling for investments in growing economic opportunity, particularly for under-served communities and regions.

Obradar argues that investing in development projects

would help counter not only drug trafficking, but also bloodshed (300,000 killed since 2006) and migrant flows. Biden is slated to visit Mexico and ramp things up.

Gee that sounds promising.

E&Y’s strange take re.

Clean Energy Exports Earnest and Young says clear federal government policy settings can deliver a clean energy export powerhouse according to an industry survey.

The study, commissioned by WWF-Australia, says we are ‘uniquely positioned to capitalise’ and lead the globe in this field. The study recommends: 1. battery nation: a $500 million government investment 2. local solar: one new solar project in every community across the country – $500 million government investment 3. electric bus revolution: conversion of Australia’s buses to electric – $240 million government investment 4. conversion of our manufacturing industries to renewable power sources, and

5. acceleration of renewable hydrogen – $225 million government investment.

Sheesh this is a bit rich! The federal government blows $90 billion on submarines and now consultancy groups are pleading for more billions.

No mention of an investment by the states, nor from the super funds and banks where the real wealth lies.

A clean energy industry package?

I wanted to write about the Morrison Government’s new regional assistance package but no details have emerged as I write. By the time you’re reading this, Barnaby Joyce has presumably explained the gist of it.

Hopefully there is a clean energy industry package, not just a top-up to the Building Better Regions program. The rationale was recently explained by Andrew Charlton, former adviser to PM Rudd, when he instanced the messy brinkmanship between the Liberals and Nations on climate change policy prior to the Glasgow Summit.

Charlton argues that most of Australia’s 18 coal-fi red

power stations are expected to close over the next 15 years, with the loss of about 10,000 direct jobs. He then pointed to the futility of the cities lecturing the regions on climate, and suggested the approach should have been a comprehensive climate support package negotiated years ago, rather than at the last minute.

It’s easy to be right in hindsight, but Charlton IS right. The way forward has to be the feds working in partnership with the states and the private sector to finance clean energy projects and energy and manufacturing hubs. This is happening to some extent, and the recently-released document ‘A whole-of-economy Plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2050’ provides a good overview of the various initiatives underway.

Despite the doomsayers, things are on the move. But neither the coal-dependent regions nor the general public yet have enough tangible evidence nor the big picture. Mr. Morrison, you’re the marketing man.

Thank you Jan Morgan The owner/editor of LG Focus, Jan Morgan, is selling up! Her sister Eryl established the business back in 1985, another sister Corinne held the reigns until she handed them to Jan ten years ago. Their combined efforts have done a wonderful job of keeping LGAs informed. Only once did they censor me – a grim and scathing piece about Senator Bronwyn Bishop.

Fair enough in these litigious times.

My sincere wishes to you Jan in your retirement!

Rod Brown is a Canberra-based consultant and lobbyist specialising in industry/regional development, investment attraction and clusters, and accessing federal grants. He also runs the Cockatoo Network.

Phone: (02) 6231 7261 or 0412 922 559 Email: apdcockatoo@iprimus.com.au

Leading the shift to renewable energy Western Australian Local Governments will take a giant step towards zero emissions when they sign up for an Australian first renewable energy agreement.

Negotiated by the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), the new aggregated agreement has the potential to deliver 100 percent renewable power to 51 councils.

Local Governments have until 18 November to formalise their participation in the project, which would make it the largest of its kind undertaken in Australia.

WALGA President, Mayor Tracey Roberts said the agreement would deliver both the option for 100 percent renewable energy for the sec-

tor’s contestable supply and savings of up to $5 million.

Mayor Roberts said WALGA had worked on developing the agreement with a steering group comprising senior representatives from several local governments.

“The enthusiasm for this project in the sector and the terms that have been achieved for the community are outstanding.

“There is a genuine appetite in the local government sector to lead the way on zero emissions and the shift to renewable energy is a giant step in the right direction.”

The initiative is the first renewables and carbon offset aggregation project granted authorisation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

It will access the renewable energy supply from three Western Australian wind farms – Albany, Emu Downs and Collgar wind farm.

“Sourcing renewable energy from WA providers was a strong requirement of the sector and further supports the direct benefit to the community in supporting local industry.”

WALGA has negotiated a renewable energy agreement for 51 WA councils.

Visitors welcomed as new hub opens Buloke Shire Council, Victoria, last month saw the official opening of the new Sea Lake Visitor Information Hub as well as the Sod-turning Ceremony at the new Sea Lake Housing Development site.

The former Sea Lake Shire Office has been completely transformed and is now open as an independently operated Visitor Information Hub. The Visitors Information Hub in6

cludes a central tourism hub, indigenous art gallery and is a one-stop-shop for a variety of beautiful locally made goods as well as information on Sea Lake and surrounds.

The project, which was funded by the State Governments Crisis Committee of Cabinet Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, was officially opened by The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas,

Minister for Regional Development, Mayor Daryl Warren and Operator Julie Pringle.

Minister for Regional Development, Mary-Anne Thomas, said, “This project

will boost visitation to Sea Lake while creating more jobs – ensuring Victoria continues to have our nation’s most vibrant, sustainable and successful regional economies.”

Operator of the Information Hub, Julie Pringle, said she was proud of the Information Hub. “The centre has a strong focus on the region and it’s a great asset for the Shire to have.”

LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS

NOVEMBER 2021

Homeless roadshow

Lost Bird Found flies again

Noosa Council, Queensland, will host a Housing and Homelessness Roadshow for residents impacted by the housing crisis.

A flock of birds will fly free next month, when North Sydney Council runs its popular and powerful Lost Bird Found project.

Mayor Clare Stewart, said, “The event will connect Noosa residents who are struggling to find accommodation with a wide range of agencies that can help – all in one place.

“With the housing issues affecting so many local residents, we’re pleased to be working with Sunshine Coast Housing and Homelessness Network, Youturn and a host of other agencies to make sure this event goes ahead in Noosa.”

As well as linking people in need with a wide range of different services, the roadshow aims to raise community awareness about homelessness.

Coast2Bay Housing Group, St Vincent de Paul Noosa, Integrated Family and Youth Services,

Youturn, QSTARS (a free independent advice and referral service for all Queensland renters), Services Australia (Centrelink) and Rent Connect are among the organisations that will be represented on the day.

Council’s Community Development Officer, Kylie Finigan, said residents could also enjoy a free breakfast, get a free haircut, collect clothes and toiletries from the Vinnies pop-up shop, and participate in the ‘Hidden Voices Of Our Town’ community art project. “we’ll be holding the roadshow in conjunction with our usual Social Services Hub at Tait-Duke Community Cottage, with more giveaways and engagement activities.”

Youturn Chief Executive Officer, Dr Tanya Bell, said homelessness was reaching new levels, with many people who’d never before been homeless suddenly left with nowhere to go.

“Over the last year, our Sunshine Coast-Noosa community has seen low rental stock, skyrocketing rents and fierce competition for housing and we are finding that many ‘working poor’ long term local people, needing support for the first time.

“Youturn’s frontline supports are in demand to ensure young people and young families pushed to the fringes of our community can rebuild their connection.”

For eight years community members having been making the beautiful birds. A tag is attached to the birds with information on the project and how to access mental health information and support.

The birds are set free and hidden in parks and public spaces in the North Sydney area (or as far as their makers take them). If a bird is found, the fi nder gets to keep it! Finders can then share their precious birds on social media for others to enjoy, and to spark conversations and boost awareness about mental health.

The handcrafted birds may be even more special this year, as both those who make them and find them will have a deeper understanding of the impacts of mental health, following our current experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Birds are a symbol of freedom, hope and wisdom.

North Sydney Mayor, Jilly Gibson said the importance of community, human interactions, and social connections

North Sydney’s Lost Bird Found project opens conversations about mental health.

had been highlighted over the course of the pandemic.

“This is one of my favourite Council projects and the joy it creates is threefold. The happiness starts with the individual who makes the bird and flutters through to the person who is lucky enough to find one.

“When a bird is found and posted on social media, the whole community can see it and share in its delight.

“Of course, the biggest win is the conversations we are having in the community because of these birds, especially about how important it is to take care of our own mental health.”

Lost Bird Found is the perfect craft project for all ages.

Council is encouraging everyone to get out their knitting needles, paint brushes and carving tools to join in and make some birds.

Building an urban forest together Hobsons Bay, Victoria, is launching a campaign to encourage residents, businesses, and industrial areas to help build an urban forest.

Haig from Youturn takes delivery of meals from Good Shepherd Lutheran College students for the emergency relief program.

Disaster dashboards shared New online disaster dashboards will provide real-time information to help residents and visitors to the Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle areas of New South Wales, be aware of, prepare for and respond to local emergencies.

From road conditions and closures, to power outages and river heights, the disaster dashboards were designed as a one-stop-shop for disaster events, providing links to emergency news and contacts as well as a direct feed from the Bureau of Meteorology’s weather warnings.

The Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO) successfully secured funding for the disaster dashboards through Stream 2 of the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience fund, which is facilitated through the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

NRJO Chair, Councillor Danielle Mulholland said the grant meant all six councils within the NRJO would soon feature a disaster dashboard on their websites.

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Richmond Valley Council’s Recovery Manager, Kelly Moroney said the disaster dashboards were an essential source of information in emergency events.

“Over the past 18 months, our resilience has been mightily tested by drought, bushfires, flooding rains and the COVID pandemic.”

Lismore City Council Local Emergency Management Officer, Scott Turner said it was only natural for people to experience stress during a flood or other disaster and the new disaster dashboards would help communities better access information during times of natural disasters.

“The disaster dashboards are an online warehouse of real-time, local emergency information supported by Resilience NSW’s Regional Disaster Preparedness Program

and rolled out to 27 councils across the State, including Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle councils.”

Kyogle Council Local Emergency Management Officer, Tony Lickiss said the amount of real-time data available on the dashboards would help ensure that residents focus on the right things before and during a disaster.

“Delivering real-time, actionable information on current conditions, emergency orders, and disruptions allows everyone to have shared situational awareness to do their part and work collectively to resolve the crisis as quickly as possible.”

The Regional Disaster Preparedness Program, coordinated by Resilience NSW, works with local governments to build their knowledge of disaster risks and ability to respond in an emergency.

As part of Council’s Urban Forest Strategy, the community is invited to plant a virtual tree where they would like to see a real one.

The draft Urban Canopy Delivery Plan maps out recently planted trees and those to be planted over the next 10 years.

The draft plan prioritises areas that currently have a minimal tree canopy, have high heat vulnerability and high pedestrian activity such as around schools, parks, playgrounds, kindergartens and libraries.

‘Harder to plant’ locations, such as shared paths, carparks, asphalt and commercial and industrial areas, will also be part of our future urban forest through water sensitive urban design that can harness new technology to passively water trees.

As well as the draft Urban Canopy Delivery Plan, Council’s Urban Forest Strategy consultation identified the Lagunaria patersonia species (commonly called Itchy Bomb Tree or Norfolk Hibiscus) as an unsuitable urban tree species which commonly causes skin irritation and is now regarded as an environmental weed.

Residents can now nominate for an Itchy Bomb Tree to be replaced.

Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Jonathon Marsden, said, “The draft Urban Canopy Delivery Plan is the next step to bring the highly popular Urban Forest Strategy to life. Through last year’s Urban Forest Strategy consultation, we know Hobsons Bay values trees and sees the benefits – improved air quality, reduced ground temperature, enhanced live-

ability and more shade on buildings and open spaces.

“Not all trees are equal and the right trees for each street, park, reserve and private property will do wonders for our streetscapes, bringing economic benefits, creating wildlife corridors and cooling our streets. The Urban Canopy Plan ensures the right trees are going in the ground, where they are needed the most and provide the best return on investment.”

The Urban Forest Strategy invites the community to plant a virtual tree where they would like to see a real one.

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Councillor profiles

South Australia

Roslyn Talbot Mayor Copper Coast Council The Copper Coast is famous for having some of South Australia’s best holiday beaches. Located a comfortable hour and a half drive from Adelaide, this region of the Yorke Peninsula is rich in history and thriving with coastal developments. Its many attractions and accommodation make the Copper Coast an

ideal tourist destination for both local and international visitors.

We are very proud of our heritage and our Nationally Heritage Listed Moonta Mining Precinct. The Council recognises the importance of the Moonta Mining Precinct and has worked with the Moonta National Trust to create a

Conservation Management Plan. The plan underpins the additional tourism product that is being established to highlight the Cornish Mining history.

I have been involved with the Copper Coast Council, firstly as a Councillor and now as the Mayor for 13 years and am very proud to represent the Copper Coast.

Local government is something that has always played a part in my life. As a third generation Mayor I have followed in both my Grandfathers and Father’s footsteps being involved in Local Government helping to shape the Copper Coast to the wonderful vibrant community that it is. Dinner time discussions revolved around the community for as long as I can remember and it seemed a natural progression to also become involved in Local Government.

Whilst I have carried on the family’s involvement in Local Government, I have also carried on the family business.

We have a clothing retail store in Kadina that takes a lot of my time but with a supportive husband and flexible, accommodating staff I am able to combine the two roles.

These two roles don’t leave me with a lot of spare time. I value my time with my family, get a great deal of pleasure in watching my children’s sporting pursuits and appreciate time with friends and relaxing at home.

Like many councils the demands on the budget to upgrade and maintain infrastructure to a standard that the community wants and deserves is always a balancing act. Whilst we are proud of our heritage, the cost of maintaining and preserving old buildings is a challenge coupled with providing modern current facilities. Continual cost shifting from other tiers of government to us puts further strain on our budget and dealing with red tape that these other tiers of Government can create is very frustrating and often costly.

and Council has to be diligent in how we spend the community’s money.

I’ve been a volunteer with the local Country Fire Service for many years and am currently a Deputy Group Officer with the Hallett CFS Group. I also enjoy attending cricket and football matches at the local level and in Adelaide from time to time.

Constraint has brought rewards We’ve had great success over the past decade, when due to financial constraints we undertook a major review into our finances and adopted a challenging but responsible long term financial plan. Some extremely hard work in the first two to three years by our staff lead by the former Chief Executive Officer and elected members, set a platform which has seen Council’s debt ratio revert to 67 percent of annual revenue in the current budget, compared to almost 125 percent which was forecast in the former plan which we superseded in 2011.

In recent years we’ve seen significant benefits, through the installation of solar energy systems across the Council area, resulting in an annual reduction in energy costs of over $100,000. Some councils look to cut services to their rate payers as a means of keeping their finances in check, but we took a highly proactive measure and were able to find savings without detriment to our community.

This has been lead by our Manager of Corporate Services, David Rattley who has really gone above and beyond

Whilst dealing with these challenges we have had some great achievements and continue to provide some great attractions for both tourists and locals to enjoy.

Our sporting facilities are of a great standard. Our sporting precinct is largely shaped around the Copper Coast Sport and Leisure Centre. A centre comprising of a program swimming pool, four sprung floor courts, squash courts a creche and a very well equipped 24/7 gymnasium. Between this centre and other sporting facilities in the Copper Coast there are not many sports that are not offered, giving our athletes the same opportunities that the athletes in the metropolitan areas enjoy and we have had some very successful athletes hail from this region.

The Farm Shed Museum and Tourism Centre in Kadina provides excellent visitor information services, supporting the region’s tourism aspirations, while the 18-hole putt putt course adds another element to the fantastic Copper

Coast Information Centre.

Tourism continues to be bolstered with the Splash Town Water Park (Moonta Bay), and the permanent Wallaroo Silo Light Show gives you a reason to experience some of our wonderful accommodation and stay an extra night.

The Copper Coast is fast emerging as a special place in which to live, conduct business and visit. Enjoying a Mediterranean ‘just right’ mild climate, the area’s population, both permanent and visitors, continues to grow as people seek to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and the region’s many assets.

Most importantly it is the people that make the Copper Coast what it is. We have a wonderful community of people that are friendly, hardworking and always willing to volunteer their time. They are what makes the Copper Coast the ‘Lifestyle Location of Choice’. Next time you are looking for a holiday destination – drop in – your first visit won’t be your last.

his normal line of work in overseeing our financial matters, but the results have been outstanding. At the end of the day people in the community pay rates and they expect services, our Council took a proactive approach and opted to look to find efficiencies rather than deny services to the community in the name of savings.

On the flip side, there is always a high level of scrutiny in local government particularly in rural areas as we are very much available to community members. However, we do appreciate this comes with the territory and it’s part of our job and often people are just looking to be heard, which I can appreciate.

What do I hope to accomplish in the future? A Council delivering a high standard of services to the community in an equitable and economically sustainable manner.

Ben Browne Mayor Northern Areas Council Northern Areas Council, is in South Australia’s Southern Flinders Ranges, the traditional lands of the Ngadjuri and Nukunu People. We’ve been working to better acknowledge and respect the traditional owners, working in conjunction with our neighbours on key projects including NAIDOC celebrations lead by one of our local leaders, Spalding resident Nat Sommerville.

Our Council area is located largely on the former pastoral run of Bundaleer Station which was settled by the Herbert Hughes family, who were also key contributors in the settlement of what are now the townships of Gladstone and Laura.

Several of our towns have recently turned 150 or are very near that milestone; whilst some Australian icons began their time in this region such as RM Williams, famous Chocolatier Alfred Haigh, CJ Dennis, Farmers Union, and we’re still home to the famous Golden North Ice Cream.

The picturesque Bundaleer picnic ground and the Maple and Pine Function centre within it is a favourite place of mine. This incredible community owned and operated 8

facility was developed by local volunteers lead by Greg Boston and Mel Kitschke. It was recently opened by Premier Stephen Marshall, who described it as the state’s best function centre North of Adelaide.

Contribute to your community I have been a Councillor for about 16 or 17 years. I first served on the former Spalding District Council for two terms before the council amalgamations in 1997. I have been a Councillor on the Northern Areas Council for 11 years serving as Chairman for two years when first elected in 2010 and have been elected to lead the Council once again as Mayor in November 2020.

I guess like most people, when you stand for an elected position you hope you can make a difference and a positive contribution to the community in which you live.

Over the years I have worked in several areas mostly around agriculture.

I live on our family farm at Andrews in the Mid North of South Australia. I started my working life in the shearing industry and understand that some people have to work very hard for their money,

Our challenges We have an ageing workforce, which is a challenge when a lot of experienced people move in to retirement. Our local area is lacking public housing, which is important as people are looking to move to the regions, whilst we also need improvements in power and water augmentation to encourage regional development.

Council is currently working on facility upgrades across all our communities including pools, community buildings, town centres and main streets including the undergrounding of powerlines. We are working on an economic and population growth plan of which my colleagues, Cr Denise Higgins and Cr Leon Pollard are the key drivers.

On a personal note What I enjoy most about being a Councillor is listening to the community and helping to deliver outcomes for people.

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TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Internationally recognised for sustainable tourism Margaret River, Western Australia, has scooped a coveted spot in the global Green Destinations Top 100 Sustainable Destinations Awards.

Every year the competition collects sustainable tourism stories and good practices from destinations all over the world to be shared as inspiring examples to others, from tourism professionals to travellers.

This year, Margaret River’s submission focused on the recent Climate Action Summit.

The submission was titled ‘A View from the Summit.’

Judges were impressed by the strong community involvement and engagement with the Summit, as well as the commitment from the community and Shire to deliver on the actions identified at the event.

Recognition in the Top 100 Sustainable Destination Awards demonstrates that the Climate Action Summit is seen as a worldleading example of community engagement and action for climate.

Council’s Manager of Planning, Matt Cuthbert, is proud the Shire had been recognised as a leader in environmental management.

“Our goal is to protect and enhance the unique natural

environment and biodiversity of the region through positive climate action.

“The Climate Action Summit was an incredibly valuable event which demonstrated the commitment of the Shire and the community to work together to ensure our environment is protected, rehabilitated and celebrated.”

The Award is a significant step towards Augusta Margaret River becoming certified as an ECO Destination.

Sustainable Economy Officer, Saul Cresswell, said, “Recognition as one of the Top 100 Destination Sustainability Stories demonstrates that our work on becoming an ecotourism destination is gaining traction.

“We’re committed to sustainable practices and providing high quality nature-based tourism experiences throughout the region.

But it shows even more than that; it shows that our whole community is supporting environmental sustainability, and that’s what makes our region so special.”

Joint Chief Executive Officer and Group Manager for

Marketing at the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Sharna Kearney, is also celebrating the accolade.

“This award sends a strong message about how much we care about our place. Visitors are increasingly aware of the need to tread softly when they travel, and respect for our environment is an increasingly important factor in travellers’ destination choices.”

Submissions for the award were evaluated by the Sustainable Top 100 Team, country experts and Green Destination Partners, coordinated

by Green Destinations. The Top 100 Committee stressed that selection to the Top 100 list does not mean the destination is sustainable, but that the destination has been pre-selected based on a minimum level of compliance with the core criteria of the Green Destinations Standard and selected to the list based on the assessment of their Good Practice Story.

The competition is held under the auspices of the Top 100 Partnership, with

Shire of Augusta Margaret River Climate Action Summit.

special contributions by: Green Destinations, QualityCoast, Travelife, ITB Berlin, Asian Ecotourism

Network, Ecotourism Australia, Global Ecotourism Network, Sustainable First and GLP Films.

The story ‘A View from the Summit’ and the whole 2021 Top 100 list are available on the Green Destinations website.

‘User pays’ is a waste minimisation measure, but if direct payment is unacceptable then time control of facilities may be sufficient. This can be applied to air conditioners, barbecues, tennis court lighting and showers. For showers, push button controllers can be set

to include a short off period as well as the on period.

Economic recovery and sustainability requires thoughtful control of facilities.

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After COVID-19* With travel restrictions eased and overseas travel limited, the rural hospitality industry is set for recovery.

Hotels, motels and caravan parks have high occupancy rates, essential after COVID-19 induced lockdowns and border restrictions.

The hospitality industry need to maximise economic opportunities but excessive hospitality rates are not in the industry’s long term best interests.

Maximising financial returns in an equitable manner is best achieved by the ‘user pays’ principle.

The means of applying a cost to goods and services was historically by coin payments, declining as credit card use increased or inclusive of service costs in other fixed charges.

However, for small low value transactions coin payment is the easiest and least expensive to implement, resulting in resurgence of coin timers on caravan park and swimming pool showers, room air conditioning, laundry equipment, tennis court and playing field lighting etc.

Now, small credit card, or combined credit card and coin controllers are also available.

Users are accepting the ‘user pays’ principle for services provided, recognising the need for the hospitality industry to recover and that COVID-19 has changed many of the accepted practices.

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TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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Celebrity chefs show Bendigo to the world

Finding adventure closer to home

Bendigo and the central Victorian region’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is celebrated in a new SBS Food TV series presented by celebrity chefs Adam Liaw and Poh Ling Yeow.

With a hard border around the state, the City’s Economic Development and Tourism Team tailored their marketing efforts to encourage Western Australians to rediscover their own backyard and view the Armadale region as a day-trip and weekend destination.

The Team worked collaboratively with the Perth Hills Tourism Alliance and Destination Perth to capture a wider audience and market share. They took a multi-pronged approach to develop new materials and platforms to target audiences.

The Team refocused and relaunched the Perth Hills Armadale Regional Guide to showcase local attractions and businesses, offering free advertising to 29 enterprises as part of COVID-19 business relief.

Exciting and engaging content formed the basis for six tourism videos to profile the best of Armadale’s attractions from walks and trails, the vibrant arts community, to wellness and food experiences. Content produced

by Evergreen for the tourism videos shored up their value for future paid digital, social, and online campaigns.

During spring, a four month marketing campaign ran to highlight key events and experiences targeting both intrastate visitors and locals to

Adam and Poh’s Malaysia in Australia cooking series brings the two celebrity chefs together for the first time onscreen, travelling around Australia combining their Malaysian heritage with the best of Australian produce.

The six-part series, broadcast on SBS Food from 7 October, will also be promoted and aired in Malaysia and across Asia in 2022, targeting millions of potential viewers.

City of Greater Bendigo is partnering with Tourism Australia to fund the show as part of the Australia Now series.

During the series, Liaw discovers Bendigo and the region’s diverse food culture and produce. The celebrity chef visits award-winning restaurants Malayan Orchid and Masons of Bendigo and spends time at micro greens producer B&B Basil.

Liaw also tours the Great Stupa, the Bendigo Community Thursday Farmers Market, and finds a spot in Chancery Lane to cook up a famous Malaysian herbed rice salad using local produce to make a unique Bendigo dish.

City Manager Tourism and Major Events, Terry Karamaloudis said the City was heavily involved in the initiative to promote Bendigo and the region’s City of Gastronomy status as part of a new marketing drive to attract visitors from across

Celebrity chef Adam Liaw visits Masons of Bendigo in Adam and Poh’s Malaysia in Australia on SBS Food.

Australia and to inspire Malaysian and Asian tourists to visit Greater Bendigo and the region in the future.

“The Australia Now program is an initiative of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to raise Australia’s innovative and creative reputation internationally, and Bendigo was selected as the only city in Victoria to be featured in the show to celebrate our status as a City of Gastronomy.

“Bendigo’s wonderful food culture and unique attractions will be seen by viewers in Australia and across Asia, and we

hope that once international travel opens up next year more tourists from Asia will have Bendigo as a must-see destination on their travel itinerary.”

Liaw said, “At a time when international travel, tourism and trade has been so acutely affected, it’s more important than ever that we don’t forget our regional relationships.

“I hope we can help to promote Australian products and businesses into Malaysia and the Asia region generally, but also help keep Australia top of mind for potential visitors when tourism returns.”

Councils find a better way Dubbo Regional Council, New South Wales, has been announced the winner of Economic Development Australia’s Excellence Award for Economic Development Initiatives in populations over 15,000.

Council was recognised for an innovative project which saw Dubbo City Regional Airport and the Dubbo region partner with Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and Fly Pelican to launch a new fight route that stimulated economic growth and tourism amid the initial pandemic of 2020.

Manager Economic Development and Marketing, Josie Howard, said, “It was a fantastic initiative that was born from a near-devastating decline in Dubbo City Regional Airport movements, patronage and revenue, as well as a steep decline in general visitation to the Dubbo region due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“Taking a positive and innovative approach to circumstances that had just about brought the travel and aviation industries to their knees, Council 10

worked closely with the both sectors to support regional travel and regional economies.”

The new partnership was strongly supported by both Dubbo Regional and Ballina Councils at a strategic and operational level, which included the delivery of destination marketing campaign activities that were very successful in converting the idea into a successful reality for visitors between both destinations.

Three months after the launch of the service, the average (aircraft) load factor for both directions was at 90 percent, with more than 1200 people using the service throughout the initial trial period.

At the end of the trial period, all parties agreed to extend the arrangement for another three months over summer, with the

inclusion of an extra weekly service on the route.

“While COVID-19 was the catalyst for innovation – sustainability of the service has been key to the success of on ongoing gateway and flight route between two great destination regions.”

Dubbo Region Mayor, Stephen Lawrence, said the award was testament to not only local and industry innovation, it served as a motivator for making the best of a bad situation.

“I congratulate everyone involved in this great initiative on their well-deserved national recognition for their innovation, enthusiasm and resilience during what was a difficult time. This result has opened a destination gateway between two iconic and popular Australian regions.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, City of Armadale, Western Australia, had to act quickly to support its local tourism industry. encourage them to rediscover their own backyard.

A television segment, produced in collaboration with Destination WA, profiled each hills area and their unique selling points with the segment airing on Channel 9, 9 Life, 9 HD, and 9 Now. The Team also worked with Tourism WA, to develop ‘Darling Days Out’, a self-guided dining and attraction trail, promoting places and local businesses in the region.

Mayor, Ruth Butterfield, said, “The team has done incredible work to promote our region as a weekend and daytrip destination.

“And it’s great to see some of the exciting initiatives they

have developed. In collaboration with the Perth Hills Tourism Alliance, the team will soon be running a social media competition where people will have the chance to win a weekend stay in the Perth Hills.

“We’ll also be running an ‘instameet’ where Perth’s top bloggers will be invited to experience a day in the Perth Hills, providing them with opportunities to promote content and grow the social following for the ‘Experience Perth Hills’ brand.”

“The pandemic has certainly given us many challenges, but it’s been terrific to see the City’s Economic Development and Tourism Team adapt so quickly to the changing tourism landscape.”

The Dale Churchman Brook. Image by Jarrad Seng.

Digital infrastructure strengthens economy A long-term works program to improve digital infrastructure and connectivity across the City of Logan, Queensland, will boost the local economy for years to come with a commitment of $2.5 million from the Queensland Government.

Deputy Mayor Jon Raven, said next-generation digital infrastructure was needed to support a transformation of the city’s economy over the next 10 years.

“We now understand the challenges being faced by our residents and businesses in

Deputy Mayor, Jon Raven said Logan City Council was committed to improving digital infrastructure to boost the local economy.

the digital space after completing the business case.

“This investigation assessed what our infrastructure is like suburb-by-suburb so that we could identify where investment is needed most.

“We believe we are among the first local governments in Australia to address these issues through a state government-endorsed business case.

“Connectivity is a mix of accessibility, speed, reliability and affordability. The gaps in the City of Logan are impacting everyday life.”

The works program will include new mobile towers to improve coverage, upgrading satellite services to enhance the NBN network, and installing 80km of fibre cabling throughout the city to replace the prevalent use of copper.

Building an edge data centre within the city to boost

connection speeds for City of Logan residents and businesses is a longer-term project in the strategy.

“Logan can’t be a modern city unless we have a modern digital network,” Cr Raven said.

“Our city is already recognised as the region’s logistics hub, but we want to become a powerhouse in health and advanced manufacturing to support our rapidly-growing population.”

Council will seek further investment from the Australian Government and the private sector to deliver the new infrastructure.

“People expect councils to think about more than roads, rates and rubbish.

“Digital infrastructure is an essential service that needs to be properly planned and funded for us to become a thriving 21st Century city.”

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NOVEMBER 2021

TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

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Where the coast comes to life Remote airport opens Known as the place where the coast comes to life, Rockingham is famous for its 37 km of spectacular coastline and range of exciting ecotourism adventures.

Rockingham Beach Foreshore Revitalisation has been a huge success.

Whether it’s swimming with dolphins, exploring the iconic Penguin Island, or relaxing at Cape Peron, it’s this coastal lifestyle that has been a key part in the City becoming one of the fastest growing local governments in Western Australia.

With border restrictions halting international and interstate travel over the past 18 months, Rockingham’s popularity with day trippers in Western Australia has soared to new heights. Data revealed

by Tourism Research Australia in late 2020 found domestic day trips had risen by an unprecedented 33 percent.

One key to this growth has been the City’s $15.75 million revitalisation of the Rocking-

ham Foreshore precinct. Since it was completed in 2019, visitors have flocked to the new look foreshore and the City has received several awards for the planning, design and delivery of the project.

Mayor, Deb Hamblin, said, “Supported by a robust Tourist Destination Strategy, the City has sought to promote Rockingham as WA’s premium coastal destination.

“We’ve done this by launching a new destination marketing brand Rediscover Rockingham, plus campaigns that have been featured in several episodes of Channel 9s Destination WA TV series, a major billboard marketing campaign across Perth, and we also launched a trial of

the Rediscover Rockingham tram service.”

Identifying and providing support for major community events that align with the City’s strategic goals has also been a key feature, with Council resolving to support this year’s Rockingham Beach Cup by providing $175,000 of Iconic Event Sponsorship. The last event attracted over 16,000 people to the foreshore.

These efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the City selected as a finalist in the 2021 Perth Airport Western Australian Tourism Awards for the Excellence in Local Government Award for Tourism category, winners will be announced on 13 November 2021.

Aurukun Shire Council, Queensland, has opened its new $2.9 million airport which will host the more than 10,000 passengers a year who travel to and from the remote Cape York Peninsula Indigenous community.

Minister for Employment and Small Business, Training and Skills Development, and Ministerial Champion for Aurukun, Di Farmer joined Aurukun Mayor, Keri Tamwoy, to officially open Aurukun Airport which was funded as part of the Works for Queensland program.

Minister Farmer said, “The airport upgrade has been a priority project for Aurukun, so it’s wonderful to see this facility, which will support future growth and be of great benefit to the community, now open.

“The facility is not only functional, and a welcoming space for staff and visitors, but the design includes cultural elements significant to Aurukun presenting a wonderful opportunity to share the community’s history with thousands of visitors each year.”

The Aurukun Champions were greeted by Elders, councillors and community members who followed a pathway, decorated with a series of dots representing Aurukun’s three rivers, leading to and through the airport. The stunning red ochre-coloured aluminium entrance was inspired by the water lilies in Aurukun’s extensive wetlands.

A second timber water lily sculpture is suspended from the ceiling in the passenger waiting lounge.

Mayor Tamwoy proudly showed guests through to the Alison Woolla Memorial Passenger Lounge, named after her late mother, who served as the Mayor of Aurukun in 1983-85 and 1991-94.

“Aviation access is critical for our community with around 620 residents regular-

ly needing to fly to Cairns for medical treatment and business,” the Mayor said.

“Multiple service providers also fly into Aurukun on Skytrans and charter flights as well as the Royal Flying Doctor Service amounting to more than 750 flights each week before the pandemic.

“Until now we all faced the prospect of standing in the rain or the heat with very little undercover space and just a couple of bench seats to wait for our flights.

“Aurukun Shire Council has been improving the airstrip infrastructure over the past 30 years to accommodate the growing number of aircraft movements into our community and with that work completed it was time to improve the passenger and staff experience.”

The welcome crowd at the opening of the Aurukun Airport on Cape York Peninsula.

Event planning streamlined Space brings unity Glenelg Shire Council, Victoria, has recently released its Draft Event Policy which outlines legislative and accessibility requirements, funding, and operational guidelines for public events across the Shire.

Mayor, Anita Rank said the draft Policy demonstrated Council’s commitment to supporting and growing local events, and the immeasurable contribution they provide in terms of social and economic impacts.

“Each year, Council delivers and supports a number of festivals and events across the Shire. In addition to events that are run by Council, there

are many events held on Council owned or managed land that are organised and delivered by community.

“The level of planning needed for individual events can differ greatly and this policy, together with the Glenelg Event Management Guidelines, will assist in providing clear guidance to event organisers to ensure their events are successful, sustainable and compliant.

Events such as the Casterton Kelpie Muster will be supported by the new policy.

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“The policy also outlines Council funding, and how groups can access financial support for their events and programs.

“We hope to see large-scale community events once again being held throughout 2022 and this new policy will help our region experience a seamless and successful transition.

“To assist the community in developing documentation that may be required as a result of this new policy, a series of Event Management workshops will be held, free of charge to our event organisers.

Community members, particularly those who are involved with coordinating local events, are encouraged to view the draft policy and provide feedback.

“We want to ensure this policy is as streamlined as possible for event organisers to ensure our Shire can continue to offer an exciting array of diverse events.”

As Burwood Council, New South Wales, continues to work towards developing its vision for the future, community consultation consistently indicates that one thing residents truly value is a sense of space.

And one lane next to the very heart of Council has proven to be an excellent addition of public space with residents playing a significant part in the naming process.

Hornsey Lane between Wynne Avenue and Conder Street was pedestrianised.

Benches were added for workers to enjoy lunch and Burwood stories came to life with the three murals representing past present and future through the creation of public murals.

The name Unity Place was voted on by the public with the project supported by the New South Wales Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’ ‘Places to Love’ program and Festival of Place – Summer Fund (10k).

To thank the community, a special COVID-19 safe celebration was held with a large crowd enjoying the music, magic and entertainment provided by local community

Unity Place is living up to its new name.

groups, library activities, and of course the interactive light installations. If that wasn’t enough appetites were certainly sated with the wide range of food trucks on hand.

Mayor John Faker said Unity Place was living up to its name.

“It’s great to see so many members of our community enjoy the space. I believe the name itself is a fantastic

endorsement from the community that they see Burwood as a place of inclusion, harmony and coming together.”

The name change from Hornsey Lane to Unity Place was accepted by the New South Wales Geographical Names Board and adopted

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Renewal project a big win

More spaces to play

Brighton Council, Tasmania, has joined with MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, to provide a major overhaul of a popular local park and deliver an exciting new community space.

Barossa Council, South Australia has unveiled a new $500,000 open space development, giving the community more opportunities to play, relax and socialise.

24 Carrot public kitchen, Gagebrook. Photo Credit: MONA/Jesse Hunniford. Image courtesy of the artist and MONA Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.

Federal funding to the tune of $620,00 secured under the Building Better Region Fund grant program, and an election promise from the State Government of $250,000, will contribute to Council’s $1.26 million Gagebrook Renewal Project.

Council is partnering with MONA and community housing provider, Centacare Evolve Housing, who are also contributing financially, to deliver a major redevelopment of Cris Fitzpatrick Park on Tottenham Road in Gagebrook.

The project will deliver significant new park facilities including the construction of MONA’s Bond Place Classroom: an architecturally designed, free community space

offering a permanent undercover, weather-proof classroom for community activities, meals, events and classes.

The new Bond Place Classroom will boost the delivery of activities for residents, school students and community groups from one day per week to between 3 and 5 days per week.

Brighton Mayor, Leigh Gray, said, “The local community was consulted about what they wanted to see happen with this park and securing this new government funding means those hopes can now become a reality.

“Our recent 2050 Vision identified the importance of building strong positive relationships, partnerships and col-

laborations in creating a better future for our community.

“This funding success for this transformative project, partnering with MONA, Centacare Evolve and both tiers of government, proves the value of this approach.

“It will also allow MONA to expand their much-loved Bond Place precinct, affectionately known as Bondy, and all the wonderful community events and activities that happen there.

“This project brings to life every part of our 2050 Vision: a thriving place, a proud community, a good life at every age, a comfortable home, a caring council and a sustainable environment.”

The new precinct at Stockwell Recreation Park features a BMX pump track, a walking/running trail and fitness stations, plus lighting, landscaping and social amenities such as picnic spaces, water fountain, shade and seating.

The Barossa Council and the State Government each contributed over $254,000 to activate the space as part of The Big Project.

Minister for Planning and Local Government, Vickie Chapman, said the redevelopment had transformed Stockwell Recreation Park into an outdoor community hub.

“With a bounty of new sport and recreation drawcards, this Park will be a place for families to gather, kick the footy, or enjoy a barbecue.

“I thank The Barossa Council for partnering with the Marshall Liberal Government to deliver this important project, which will considerably improve public amenities for the Stockwell community.”

Mayor, Bim Lange, said, “We know people come to

Abbey and Evie Gore of Stockwell try out the new BMX pump track.

Stockwell Oval year-round to play sport, and this redevelopment provides extra opportunities for people to be active and participate in community life.

“The pump track in particular is proving a great attraction

for this growing community, where access to high quality green space is so important.

“This project really improves accessibility, safety and liveability at a local level, and is a drawcard for visitors to the region as well.”

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NOVEMBER 2021

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Online audience harnessed Inspiring local operators to in 4WD series become ECO certified The Shire of Ashburton has harnessed an online audience of over 600,000 with Ronny Dahl and 4 Wheeling Australia.

With border restrictions increasing in 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Shire of Ashburton recognised a need for engaging, adventure-based tourism opportunities in Western Australia.

The Shire knew their vast landscapes, stunning gorges and coasts, and key destinations such as Karijini National Park were the perfect answer for those looking for an adventure in their own backyard.

To showcase this, in early 2021 the Shire of Ashburton engaged 4 Wheeling Australia and 4WD enthusiast Ronny Dahl to produce a ‘4 Wheeling Ashburton’ feature on their YouTube channel and collaboration across Facebook and Instagram platforms.

Ronny Dahl and the 4 Wheeling Australia team were invited to bring their cameras and explore the four towns of the Ashburton Shire and all the amazing stops in between. With a combined social media following of over 570 thousand, the team are well known and well respected in their field.

The ‘4 Wheeling Ashburton’ series can be viewed on the Ronny Dahl YouTube channel.

The result was a ten-part series showcasing a trip throughout the Shire, the creation of a 4WD trail map, a live show in Tom Price that was live-streamed to an audience of over 15,000, and a lasting working relationship between the 4 Wheeling Australia and Shire of Ashburton teams.

Through the collaboration, the Shire was able to reach a new and relevant audience of over 600,000 that was introduced to the Ashburton region

and encouraged to come and explore it for themselves.

The collaboration also provided the Shire with an extensive backlog of relevant video content and imagery that could be harnessed throughout the tourist season across their dedicated Visit Ashburton tourism accounts.

The Shire of Ashburton will be reconvening with Ronny Dahl and the team from 4 Wheeling Australia as part of Australian 4WD & Adventure Show.

AI helps Indigenous Council recycle The expertise at Noosa’s Peregian Digital Hub is helping Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, Queensland, tap into the power of Artificial Intelligence.

Peregian Hub Director, Chris Boden and two businesses based at the Hub have worked with Cherbourg Council to source funding and develop a program to bring to life some of its cutting-edge technology.

“With the support of two technologists based at the Hub, Deborah van der Vlist and Laszlo Csabi, we have developed a project that aims to improve the recyclable containers at Cherbourg’s Material Recovery Facility.

“Utilising AI technology, the system comprises a series of 3D cameras that monitor waste materials on conveyor belts and AI software that identifies individual items and counts them.”

The analytics system is a collaboration between software development contractors based at the Peregian Digital Hub and the recycling facility experts based in Cherbourg.

“The system learns to detect a complex array of waste objects by being trained on a large database of labelled images which will be produced 14

Chris Boden Peregian Digital Hub, Siehanna Mickelo Cherbourg Council, Deborah van der Vlist and Laszlo Csabi Peregian Digital Hub.

by the data team in Cherbourg, “The data analysts segment objects in the images and assign them with the correct category. Over time the software gradually learns to differentiate between objects like aluminium cans and steel tins that can be in various states of disrepair.”

Noosa Council Chief Executive Officer, Brett de Chastel said it was another tangible example of the Hub’s ongoing success.

“The facility is only three years old, but the expertise and innovation is world-class.

“This is a real partnership and collaboration involving the Peregian Digital Hub, Cherbourg and Noosa Councils, Advance Queensland and the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation.

“The building blocks are now in place and hopefully the initiative will create meaningful high-value jobs in Cherbourg,” Boden said.

Central Coast Council, New South Wales, is currently on its way to becoming a certified ECO Destination and an important part of the journey has been assisting local nature-based businesses to pursue formal recognition as ecotourism providers themselves.

Achieving ECO Destination Certification will see the Central Coast recognised as a world-class location for sustainable and nature-based tourism, which will provide a substantial and ongoing boost to the local economy.

Central Coast Council is working with Ecotourism Australia and World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)-Australia to achieve ECO Destination Certification by World Environment Day in June 2022. Council recently also welcomed an additional 11 local nature-based businesses into the certifi cation program.

Council will continue to work with applicants directly and through a fully funded partnership with Ecotourism Australia and WWF-Australia, to provide mentoring throughout their certification journey, and a $500 membership funding incentive to assist with the first year of the process.

Chief Executive at Ecotourism Australia, Rod Hillman said the Central Coast was an outstanding candidate to become a certified ECO Destination.

“The Central Coast has well managed and extensive protected areas, a strong environmental ethic within the community and Council, and high quality existing ecotourism experiences.

“Ecotourism Australia visited the Central Coast in May to launch the region’s journey to become a certified ECO Destination with regional stakeholders and to announce an incentive program to create and build new ecotourism products in the region.

“Working closely with Central Coast Council, regional stakeholders and the local tourism industry, the program is designed to build on the Central Coast’s reputation as a premium location for high quality ecotourism experiences and accommodation.

“The incentive program has encouraged 11 existing tourism businesses in the region to build on their sustainability credentials and practices by starting their application to be ECO Certified.”

ECO tourism certification applicant, Bombora Ettalong Beach SUP, offers everything ‘stand-up-paddle’ – including yoga.

Accessible facilities attract visitors Bass Coast Shire Council, Victoria, has recently replaced the toilet facility at Guide Park in Wonthaggi, which has been made even more exciting, with the inclusion of a Changing Places toilet.

This is the first Changing Places toilet to be located on mainland Bass Coast and Council’s second facility, in addition to the one located at the Cowes Transit Centre on Phillip Island. There is also a Changing Places toilet located at the Phillip Island Health Hub and Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Penguin Parade.

Changing Places are fully accessible public toilets with additional features and equipment, such as a height-adjustable adult-sized changing table, ceiling hoist and enough space to provide a safe, clean

toilet and changing environment for people with additional support needs. The new facility in Wonthaggi also has a shower.

Like many other Changing Places, the facility requires a Master Locksmiths Access Key, giving people with disability and their carers access to a network of these facilities at any time.

All Changing Places facilities must be approved by a Changing Places Assessor to ensure they are built to standard, so that users can be confident that the design is fit for

Inside the new Changing Places toilet at Guide Park, Wonthaggi.

purpose and are compliant with the National Construction Code requirements for Accessible Adult Change Facilities.

The new toilet facility at Wonthaggi provides universal access, while considering public safety and meeting current Australia Standards. As well as the Changing Places toilet, it also features two standard unisex cubicles, one ambulant unisex cubicle and two accessible unisex cubicles.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Brett Tessari, said the inclusion of the Changing Places toilet in Wonthaggi would provide a meaningful benefit for locals and visitors with additional support needs.

“Having this accessible toilet option will attract people who otherwise may not have visited the area, due to a lack of suitable facilities.

“The upgrade of these toilet facilities is part of Council’s objective to positively contribute to the social health and well-being of our communities.”

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