MAG - LG Focus - 11th March 2022

MARCH 2022

Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper

No ordinary flood One council’s journey through the recent floods - the following was sent through from Lismore Council comms coordinator PETER WEEKES who asked on behalf of the mayor, councillors and council staff that no one be quoted. This is the whole council’s story according to Weekes.

Lismore did not experience a flood event, it experienced a national disaster much like when Cyclone Tracey razed Darwin.

In the two days before the flood, residents and businesses moved their belongings and stock above the record 1974 flood level of 12.15m, thinking that it would be safe.

It would eventually peak at 14.4m, somewhere between a 1-in-500-year flood and a Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) – essentially a Noah’s Ark event.

The flood waters rose much higher and faster than the BOM forecasted, which caught everyone by surprise. Many were unable to reach evacuation centres. Tragically, we lost four members of our community.

Flood waters covered much of the Northern Rivers, which meant our SES and other Emergency Services were stretched beyond their capacity. Mobile phones and the internet failed.

The devastation that was revealed when flood waters receded can not be described in words.

Thousands of homes were damaged or destroyed and our CBD was decimated as was our Industrial Estate, Shopping Complex and five schools.

Council facilities were also damaged or destroyed: our sewerage treatment plants, levee pumps, water mains, countless roads, library, art gallery, City Hall and much more.

Many of our staff lost their houses but still turned up at work to help the community.

Some also rescued trapped neighbours and friends rather than protecting their own home and contents.

It’s going to be a very long and hard road to recovery, and we can only do it with the financial support of both the State and Federal Governments.

Lismore is a flood-prone city and we know how to deal with floods, what we didn’t know was how to deal with a national disaster.

What we quickly learnt was that in a disaster you can only rely on your own community.

The morning after the City was evacuated long before it was officially safe to return - our roads were clogged with community members towing boats as they headed down to the CBD to rescue whoever they could find.

They were unconcerned about their personal safety, they just wanted to save lives – and they saved many.

Continued page 2

Despite the efforts of staff Lismore Library suffered major losses.

Lismore Library early in the flood.

NSW premier Dominic Perrottet visits Lismore.

12537767-SG10-22

NEWS

EDITORIAL DESK When asked if something could be sent from Lismore about the floods, Peter Weekes from the Comms Department came back with a message from the mayor and councillors, asking if it was ok that no one be quoted.

That the information be on behalf of the entire council.

It’s not something we do, it is something as a journalist I have been taught to never do. But when you read what was sent you will know why I felt compelled to put it through.

If you have been hit by flooding please send us your stories (with quotes please) and stay safe.

- Tania Phillips LG Focus Coodinator

INSIDE THIS EDITION PRESIDENT

4

THE GOOD OIL

7

PROFILES

Help for Redlands Redlands Coast residents impacted by the recent severe weather event can now access State Government hardship assistance after Mayor Karen Williams requested it be activated for Redland City.

Cr Williams said she was pleased her request to the State Department of Communities for activation of Personal Hardship Financial Assistance grants and the Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant had been accepted.

“Typically, Personal Hardship Financial Assistance is triggered when large areas of residential properties are impacted and left without power or clean water,” she said.

“Fortunately, Redlands Coast did not experience this scale of hardship to the same extent as our neighbouring councils.

“However, the whole of Redland City was impacted, with more than 3000 homes losing power, including on the islands, and three families having to be evacuated from their homes.

“Local SES units received 400 calls for assistance, with almost half relating to structural damage.

“We want all hardship cases to be assessed on their merits, which is why I requested the Department of Communities activate the hardship assistance for Redlands Coast residents who may need a helping hand.

“Their decision to grant this request means Redlands Coast residents who have been suffering personal hardship and distress from the weather event can now get financial support to get on with their clean up and recovery.”

Personal Hardship Financial Assistance grants can provide assistance to help meet immediate essential needs, for example: For food, clothing, medical supplies or temporary accommodation where there has been the loss of one or more essential services for more than five days.

A contribution towards replacing or repairing essential household contents that have been lost or damaged.

A contribution towards repairs or replacement of a dwelling to return it to a safe, habitable and secure condition.

The Essential Services Safety and Recon-

· · · ·

nection Grant provides a financial contribution towards safety inspections of and repairs to residential essential services damaged by a disaster.

Other State Government assistance available for people within the Redland City Council area includes: Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans Scheme for Primary Producers Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans Scheme for Not-for-Profit Organisations.

There are eligibility criteria for all State Government grants.

For more information on the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance and Essential Services Safety and Reconnection grants, visit the Department of Communities website, www.qld.gov.au/SEQRecoveryGrants, or phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

For the Disaster Assistance Loans Scheme, visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or free call 1800 623 946.

· ·

8

RURAL-REGIONAL

14-16

RECREATION-ARTS

22-23

CONTACT US

Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper Website: LGFocus.com.au Noosa Office: Telephone: (07) 5455 6946 Address: 36 Mary Street, Noosaville Qld 4566 Pakenham Office: Telephone: (03) 5945 0666 Address: 10 Army Road, Pakenham VIC 3810 Network with LG Focus twitter.com/@LGFocusau facebook.com/LocalGovernmentFocus Editorial: E: editorial@LGFocus.com.au Advertising: E: advertising@LGFocus.com.au Classifieds: P: 1300 666 808 E: sales@NetworkClassifieds.com.au

Under flood.

No ordinary flood!

From page 1 When there were far too many evacuees for the Evacuation Centre operated by the Department of Community and Justice, Council staff decided to set up a second centre at the Council’s Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre.

This has never been the role of Council.

Yet without any experience, the Centre was quicky established because it had to be done. Using Facebook, we made a call out for everything from mattresses, blankets and towels to food, bottled water and toothbrushes.

The response was immediate and overwhelming with hundreds of volunteers also turning up to assist with the smooth running of the Centre. Within days we had services such as Chaplaincy, Counselling, Find a Person, Department of Justice, Centrelink, Service NSW and many more.

As truckloads of donations from around the country rolled in after the roads became passible, we set up a walk in Dry Pantry at the Evacuation for those without food as well as a distribution centre for non-government organisations at the Lismore Showgrounds.

As news spread of the disaster, offers on

The devastation inside the library. cash donations flowed. With a mind to the scammers who tried to profit from our community following the 2017 flood, Council launched its own Flood Fund that will partner with charities to distribute to flood victims.

(The details are on our website www.lismore. nsw.gov.au) It’s only been just over a week since our city was virtually destroyed and Council has learnt a lot but there will be many more learning over the weeks, months and years ahead.

But there is one thing we already know – we will recover.

EDITORIAL Tania Phillips Journalist E: tania.phillips@StarNewsGroup.com.au ADVERTISING Phill Le Petit Sales Manager E: phill.lepetit@StarNewsGroup.com.au M: 0439 377 525

DIARY DATES Civic Leaders Summit

South Brisbane QLD

Wed 29 – Thur 30 Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort 270 Ocean Drive, Twin Waters Sunshine Coast Qld

Waste Forum

Louisa Kneller Sales Executive E: louisa.kneller@StarNewsGroup.com.au M: 0413 380 545

The LGAQ LGx

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit LGFocus.com. au/terms-and-conditions/

IPWEA Australasian Fleet Conference

2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

Mon 27 -Tues 28 June Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, Twin Waters

Mon 28 – Wed 30 Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Glenelg St

Mon 4 – Thur 6 July Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane Showgrounds Not a moment to waste – 10 years to transition to a circular economy – event postponed from March.

Social Media for Councillors Mon 28, 9am -12.30pm Interactive Webcast, LGNSW This interactive workshop will give councillors and management an overview of the

most influential social networks and their value and show them how to use social for their benefit and that of councils.

Planning & Facilitating Effective Meetings Tues 29, 9am -12.30pm Interactive Webcast, LGNSW This advanced workshop is designed to enhance the skills of people who chair formal or informal meetings, and concentrates on the finer points of chairing meetings both in the private and public sectors, so that they demonstrate knowledge, leadership and professionalism.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

NEWS

A long road to recovery Full recovery from devastating floods will take years, according to Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig. TANIA PHILLIPS reports...

The Queensland town, like it’s southern counterpart Lismore, found itself as the face of the devastating “rain bomb” that swept through southern Queensland and Northern NSW earlier this month.

Thousands of people were displaced across the region as council’s dealt with rain at levels they had never really encountered.

“A lot of work has been done in the past week but the reality is we’re talking about years of work that needs to be done particularly on our infrastructure and road network and it’s a very long road back,” he said.

“Our main focus now is to get the clean up around the town centre, around the low-lying residences as quickly as we possibly can so life can return as much to normal as possible.

“Over the coming years we’ll deal with the damage as soon as we possibly are able to.”

It has been “an interesting start to the year” for the shire according to the mayor, with the region’s western areas suffering significant flooding back in January but that did not compare with the February/March flood which so the whole region inundated with flood waters.

“We have had a lot of infrastructure losses – road networks out west were decimated in January,” Mayor Hartwig said.

“The work that had been done to repair that has been washed down the river again.

“That has been compounded with the rest of our road network on the Eastern, Northern and Southern sides of the region being significantly impacted by this massive flood.

“The river peaked at 22.96 metres which is the second highest flood on record.

“The biggest issue was the amount of rain and the location that it occurred in.”

Inside the Gympie Disaster Management Hub.

Normanby Bridge from the Southside late on the Friday morning.

Pictures: SHANE ZAHNER, GYMPIE TODAY He said there were heavy downpours rather than the consistent heavy rain that usually brings about flooding and inundation.

“There was a lot more infrastructure damage then we would have normally have in a flood but the community has pulled together and our organization performed really well,” he said.

“Look if other councils want to send any surplus cash they have I am sure we can spend it,” he quipped. “But I’m not sure that’s

going to be high on their agenda but I think we know that other people care and that means a lot to us.

“We look to learn from other councils and I think the way our local Government organization performed there’s probably a little bit that councils can learn from us.

“It was an event that wasn’t just your standard flooding event. It had a number of major issues in terms of power outages to the water treatment plant that supplies Gympie and

Mayor Glen Hartwig addresses the media outside the Gympie Police Station. other complex matters.

“The way our staff performed, I’m just so proud of the team of people who were involved at the coal face with disaster management, our High Vis guys working out on the roads with closures and our staff that manned the evacuation centres. I have high expectations for our organization and it makes me very proud to say that I believe the staff exceeded those expectations.”

Disaster mitigation beats recovery The people of Bundaberg are forever scarred by the terrible events of 2010-11 and 2013 when severe flooding devastated much of the city.

By Jack Dempsey, Mayor Bundaberg Regional Council We dodged the rain bomb which hammered many parts of Queensland in recent weeks, but Bundaberg residents live in fear of being flooded again.

There’s a solution to give peace of mind and keep people safe but due to bloodyminded politics and neglect, a thoroughly studied and properly engineered levee remains unbuilt.

In 2010-11, we had the devastation of what we thought was one of our worst floods, in which people and possessions were driven out of homes right across the Bundaberg Region.

That was followed up with our worst flood in 2013 on the Australia Day long weekend.

I still see the tears running down people’s faces, the trembling in their hands and bodies when they hear the patter of rain on their roofs.

The economic impacts in 2013 were terrible. Many businesses remained closed for months, costing jobs and community cohesion.

The State Government promised to look at flood mitigation and through extensive consultation with the community, came up with a number of projects to mitigate against future disasters.

These were prioritised after getting worldleading engineering, hydrology and scientific advice, which was peer reviewed.

There were more than 185 recommendations from consultation over the following years and a number of the priority projects have already been completed.

The number one priority disaster mitigation project, not just for Bundaberg, but peer reviewed and checked for the whole state of Queensland is the East Bundaberg levee.

The proposed levee would increase protection from a Burnett River flood event similar to 2013 levels, mitigating damage in Bundaberg East, Bundaberg South and the LGFOCUS.COM.AU

The proposed levee.

CBD without increasing flood impacts in other areas.

The Queensland Government has put up $42.5 million towards the estimated project cost of $85 million.

They’ve done the planning and it’s ready to go.

The Federal Government created a $4 billion Emergency Response Fund but only allocates $50 million per year across the whole of Australia to prepare for and reduce the risk of future natural disasters. This amount needs to be significantly increased.

It’s now a $4.8 billion fund, having earned the Government $830 million in interest.

Of course, the Commonwealth could fund a flood levee through the Budget, as they did in Launceston. The Launceston flood levee cost $58 million including land acquisition

and in the floods of June 2016 saved an estimated $216 million in losses.

I simply don’t understand why the Federal Government won’t invest $42 million to save potentially a billion dollars in the event of another major flood, which we just narrowly avoided.

Not to mention the heartache and suffering of people.

The East Bundaberg levee is supported by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, insurance companies and the Insurance Council of Australia. It ticks all the boxes.

The levee is a no-brainer. Instead of the local Member playing politics with it, he should be the biggest champion of community safety and helping to address some of the misconceptions which he relies on to evade responsibility.

Mayor Dempasey.

Jack Dempsey has been Mayor of Bundaberg Regional Council since 2016. He was previously the State Member for Bundaberg and served as Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 3

PRESIDENT’S COMMENT - CR DARRIEA TURLEY AM, LGNSW

Rate cap’s devastating It’s the lowest rate cap in two decades, and comes as a devastating blow to councils already struggling to recover from droughts, bushfires, floods and the Covid pandemic.

The rate peg is based on the costs of goods during last year’s pandemic-induced slump, and fails to recognise surging inflation, the skyrocketing cost of fuel and other commodities and a 2 per cent mandated wage rise to council workers for 2022.

The estimated revenue shortfall as a result of the determination is estimated at a total of around $100 million.

NSW Councils are currently scrambling to recast their budgets, and it is hard to see how they will be able to avoid cuts to spending on local roads, parks, pools, libraries and other community services.

Planned work intended to drive a locallyled recovery from Covid may now simply be out of financial reach.

Jobs could also be at risk, and with councils often the major employer in our regions and rural areas, the battle is on to avoid further damaging local regional and rural economies which are only just emerging from the impacts of the pandemic. Councils and communities impacted by the ongoing flood crisis will be particularly hard hit at a time when they need

every ounce of courage and support to help them get back on their feet.

It is no surprise that Local Government NSW’s member councils resolved unanimously to call for an urgent review of the rate peg at our Special Conference earlier this month.

The successful motion also called for State Government action to ensure no council is financially disadvantaged by this shock determination.

One thing is for certain – the 0.7 per cent baseline rate peg has proved a baptism by fire for NSW’s new Local Government Minister Wendy Tuckerman – herself a former Mayor of Boorowa and administrator of Hilltops Council. We’re grateful Minister Tuckerman has agreed to ask IPART to review their rate peg methodology, including the local government cost index, and pledged to look at more immediate means of assistance. LGNSW will be working closely with the Minister to not only develop a plan to protect the jobs, infrastructure and services needed by our communities, but to drive long-term reform to prevent this crisis from reoccurring in future.

LGNSW Presidenet Darriea Turley AM.

New head for WALGA Recovery group swings into action Shire of Morawa President Karen Chappel has been elected President of the WA Local Government Association, after having acted in the role since December 2021.

Elected at the State Council meeting earlier this month, Councillor Chappel said she was honoured to be elected to the position and would build upon the existing relationships she had with WALGA Members and stakeholders.

“I’m looking forward to working together with the Local Government sector to help deliver the best results for our collective communities,” Cr Chappel said.

“As an Association, we are committed to advocating and facilitating sector solutions with future focussed and evidence-based policy positions to amplify the voice of Local Government in Western Australia.

“The State Government has initiated reform of Local Government and legislative change is ahead of us.

We can look to the future and make decisions that are best for the whole sector with courage and foresight.”

Cr Chappel has been Morawa Shire President for 13 years and a Councillor since 2005.

She is a WALGA Life Member and was appointed twice by the then Minister for Local Government to a mentoring team for Elected Members to guide good governance and sound decision making.

Cr Chappel was formerly a member of the

Local Government Advisory Board, and currently represents Local Governments on the State Road Funds to Local Government Advisory Committee and the Mid West Development Commission.

Alongside Cr Chappel, Town of Claremont Councillor Paul Kelly was elected WALGA’s Deputy President.

Cr Kelly has been a Councillor at the Town of Claremont since 1994, serving more than 10 years of that time as Deputy Mayor, and was previously WALGA Deputy President between 2004 and 2005.

A fellow WALGA Life Member, Cr Kelly is also a Board Member of LGIS. He has extensive board experience and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

He is currently Executive Director of the Economic Regulation Authority, although resigning from this position to focus on Local Government matters and has been an employee of the Senior Executive Service of Government for 20 years.

WALGA CEO Nick Sloan congratulated Cr Chappel and Cr Kelly on their election, saying he looked forward to working with them in progressing WALGA’s advocacy for WA Local Governments.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Deputy Premier Steven Miles, Minister Mark Ryan, Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll and QFES Commissioner Greg Leach toured the Ipswich council’s Local Disaster Coordination Centre and flood evacuation centre just after the deluge.

Council’s newly formed Local Recovery and Resilience Group updated the Queensland Premier on the city’s disaster response, areas that remained inundated and she then met with residents displaced by flood waters and are temporarily residing at the Ipswich Showgrounds.

Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mayor Teresa Harding said hundreds of people had sheltered at the city’s evacuation centre including 180 overnight with their pets including dogs, cats and birds.

“We were pleased Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Queensland’s State Disaster Management Group visited some of our hardest impacted residents as Ipswich begins a massive recovery effort after flood waters impacted dozens of suburbs,” said Mayor Harding. She said Council and the city’s utility partners worked around the clock to reinstate services.

Mayor Teresa Harding and Premier Palaszczuk meet with residents.

“The Local Resilience and Recovery Group is assisting with planning and delivering the help our community needs to recover from this flood.”

You can find NEW EMPLOYEES HERE!!

LG Focus have a new monthly opportunity for Councils when promoting their high-profile position vacant roles Receive twice the exposure for half the cost in our dedicated Appointments section Simply book a quarter page or half page advert and receive same size space to promote your location giving twice the exposure Highlight the great attributes your specific area has to offer. Attract that worthy candidate who just maybe looking for a change of scenery

APRIL BOOKINGS CLOSING SOON:

CONTACT US TODAY:

Deadline: Wednesday 30th March, 2022 Copy: Monday 4th April, 2022

Louisa Kneller: louisa.kneller@starnewsgroup.com.au or Mobile: 0413 380 545

4 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

12539306-SG11-22

Speak directly to the prospect!!

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

NEWS

Housing challenges The Queensland Government has moved rapidly to implement a range of measures in response to the current housing challenges and homelessness following recent severe rainfall and flooding.

State Communities and Housing minister Leeanne Enoch said these efforts included establishing a $600,000 Rapid Response Fund to deliver enhanced housing and homelessness services in impacted areas.

As of 9 March there were currently 1035 people from 461 households that had already received emergency housing as a result of the severe weather event.

“Flood waters are subsiding across the south-east but in the aftermath of such a significant disaster we know there are Queenslanders who need help to find safe and stable housing,” she said.

“We know there was unprecedented demand on Queensland’s housing market prior to this most recent flooding event.

“Record interstate migration, rising house prices, very low vacancy rates, Covid-19 and severe weather has created a perfect storm.

“Every Queenslander deserves a roof over their head, and I have been looking at all available options to assist people who might require short-term accommodation and longer-term housing.

“We are doing this in a way that considers the individual and the diverse needs of households.

“This includes providing accommodation solutions with appropriate supports for people with disability, and people experiencing home-

lessness or domestic and family violence.”

Minister Enoch said there were several options being considered to increase housing supply, particularly in the short-term.

“This includes working with local hotel and motel partners to book appropriate hotel accommodation for short term accommodation needs and exploring capacity of previous quarantine accommodation,” she said.

“We are also exploring offers from the private sector, including commercial, holiday, mobile or other short-term rentals.

“These are options that could assist a number of individuals and families who might not be able to live in their own homes due to flood damage.”

Minister Enoch said the Government would continue to work closely with Specialist Homelessness Services and Community Housing providers in activated disaster areas to provide essential responses to people needing housing support.

“These are valued partners delivering services that are more important than ever right now,” she said.

“This is about providing a housing response that is wide-ranging and includes support for displaced homeowners, people in the private rental market and those who need the safety net of social housing.

“A range of products, programs and service responses is available to support people in the private rental or home ownership markets.

“In response to community need, we have temporarily expanded use of and eligibility for products such as Bond Loans, Bond Loan Plus and Rental Grants for Queensland residents within the activated disaster areas, who are displaced from their property due to the weather events.

“A range of rent relief measures are also available for social housing tenants who are unable to remain in their homes due to flood related damage and the property requiring repair.”

Minister Enoch said the funding package builds on the work already underway to respond to flood related housing and homelessness need, through the Queensland Government’s community recovery hubs and Housing Service Centres.

“Our officers have been on the ground in evacuation centres across affected areas to provide housing assistance and support and this work is continuing in community recovery hubs that are opening up across the southeast,” she said.

“Our Housing Service Centres have remained open and are a place for people to access information and assistance to meet their housing needs.”

Crying out for a replacement Redland City Council is shouting out for a new Town Crier following the retirement of Max Bissett in December.

Mayor Karen Williams said Max had made an outstanding contribution during his 16 years of service as the city’s Town Crier.

“He was a big supporter of our community and a great ambassador for our city,” Cr Williams said.

“Max completed all his duties with passion and professionalism because he loves Redlands Coast and his community.

“Council is now seeking expressions of interest for a new Town Crier to ensure that Max’s legacy endures and we can keep the Town Crier tradition alive on Redlands Coast.”

Council’s criteria for the voluntary position are simple – a big voice, unwavering community pride and a strong passion for Redlands Coast.

“We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, engaging and entertaining to promote our city’s community spirit at festivals, parades and civic events,” Cr Williams said.

“This may include attending citizenship ceremonies, leading processions, opening community events and, of course, participating in the Australian Town Criers Championships.”

Retired Town Crier Max Bissett.

Call for reforms to education The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) has called on all levels of government to commit to educational programs aimed at raising the capacity of asset management practice.

In their Whitepaper launched in early March, the IPWEA said the education programs would ensure the community is getting the most value out of their infrastructure. The Whitepaper, ‘Best Practice Asset Management of Essential Public Infrastructure’ discusses the key challenges faced in the infrastructure sector including severe skill shortages, lack of ‘best practice’ cohesion, lack of auditing and understanding/recognition of asset management professionals.

IPWEA has called for the immediate addressing of the education issue in this sector, alongside five other recommendations targeted towards all three levels of government with each playing a vital role in maintaining the integrity and quality of the profession.

The failure to properly plan and manage assets can cost tax payers significantly; the 2021 National State of the Assets (NSoA) report estimated the replacement cost of local government assets (excluding land and plant equipment) was in the order of $533 billion.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

IPWEA’s Whitepaper details the role the asset management profession plays in the design, management and lifecycle of infrastructure the community takes for granted such as bridges, roads, lighting, sewage, parks and more.

Myles Lind, President, IPWEA said the continued development of the asset management profession is vital to ensure taxpayers see strong returns from their infrastructure.

“Infrastructure such as water supplies, roads, sanitation, and public buildings are by far the largest investment and most complex assets that communities own. IPWEA recognises that continuously seeking to help grow and maintain infrastructure asset management capability can deliver greater employment opportunities, improve sustainability, build resilient communities and deliver stronger returns on investment,” Mr Lind said.

David Jenkins, CEO, IPWEA said he was passionate about continued education and believes associations have a critical role in ad-

dressing the challenges facing their industry.

“There have been numerous discussions around the skill shortage and the severe implications for the community, however, we needed a solution. That is why we developed the Asset Management Pathway allowing us to introduce the profession to more people, and skill-up those already working in the area, to directly solve the challenges facing the industry,” said Mr Jenkins.

IPWEA’s Whitepaper highlights how Australia has limited its return on investments by failing to adequately respond to the shortage of asset managers and not investing in their professional development. The asset management profession needs urgent support and response from the government to ensure public funds are spent effectively and infrastructure assets can perform at their full capacity for decades to come.

Access ‘Best Practice Asset Management of Essential Public Infrastructure’ Whitepaper is available on their website.

Award winners Canterbury-Bankstown City Council and Blayney Shire Council have been recognised as the most progressive councils in NSW at the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Special Conference.

The two councils received the AR Bluett Memorial Award, the state’s oldest and most prestigious local government award, earlier this month.

Canterbury-Bankstown City Council was crowned as the 2021 Metropolitan winner, while Blayney Shire Council took out the Rural category.

LGNSW President Darriea Turley commended the two councils on their remarkable achievements.

“The awards recognise excellence and relative progress by councils – which is something that all councils should strive towards,” Cr Turley said.

“On behalf of LGNSW, I congratulate the councils, general managers, council staff and their communities on receiving this great accolade.”

The AR Bluett Memorial Award has been awarded annually since 1945 in commemoration of Albert Robert Bluett, who served as the Secretary and Solicitor to the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW for 30 years.

Well respected by the legal profession and Ministers of the crown, Mr Bluett was instrumental in writing the Local Government Act of 1919.

AR Bluett Awards Trustee Chairman Les McMahon said the Trust received 14 council applications for the 2021 awards.

Mr McMahon said Canterbury-Bankstown City Council played a monumental part in helping its community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Canterbury-Bankstown City Council is a remarkable council with its motto, ’a council working hard and smart’, delivering innovative programs whilst its community withstood high bouts of both Delta and Omicron COVID,” Mr McMahon said.

“The delivery of programs focusing on closing the loop in waste management, healthy minds and bodies, encouraging female leaders in the community and undertaking the largest citizenship ceremony in Australia were but a few of the outstanding programs delivered by this innovative council.”

Mr McMahon said that despite it being one of the smaller councils in the state, Blayney Shire Council’s staff helped make outstanding contributions to its community.

“Blayney Shire Council - a small council promoting community partnerships and delivering promised programs on infrastructure in such turbulent times.

“Blayney is small in population and expenditure and has delivered promised programs through partnerships with private enterprise and community because of the effective leadership from council and staff.”

Cr Turley recognised the high standard of entries and commended each council for their submission.

“The trustees of the AR Bluett Awards always have a challenging task of choosing winners for each category with the high-quality of entries that are received.

“Councils have been leading their communities out of the Covid-19 pandemic and are driving a locally-led recovery.

“The contributions made by staff and elected representatives of council help their community to thrive, and I think our communities are the true winners in the end.”

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 5

NEWS

Hanging up the hat After an illustrious 25-year career at the Waratah-Wynyard Council, Mayor Robby Walsh has decided to retire at the end of his current term at Council.

Although the elections are not until October this year, Mayor Walsh chose to announce his intention not to recontest now, giving plenty of time for others to consider throwing their hats in the ring.

“I have greatly enjoyed my 12 years as Mayor, but I believe it’s the right time to indicate my intentions for retirement providing the community plenty of time to consider my replacement,” the Mayor said.

“Being a born and bred local of several generations, I have been very fortunate to occupy the position of Mayor of this beautiful area of Tasmania and to help make improvements in our thriving community.”

Cr Walsh was first elected to the Wynyard Council in 1986 and served as an elected member through the amalgamation process with Waratah Council.

In 1994 Cr Walsh chose not to contest the re-election, committing his time to his 24-year career with Forestry Tasmania.

Deciding to nominate for Council again in 2005, he was elected as a Councillor that year, then as Deputy Mayor in 2007.

In 2011 he was elected as Mayor, a position he has held continuously since that time, making him Waratah-Wynyard’s longest serving Mayor.

Well-known for his trademark Akubra hat, Mayor Walsh has enjoyed serving the community in which he was born and bred.

“A primary focus in my time at Council has been providing top class facilities for our community and visitors; especially toilets, playgrounds and parks and reserves,” Cr Walsh said.

Cr Walsh has been at the helm overseeing many major strategies and developments, including the Sustainable Murchison Community Plan; the Anzac Park all-abilities playground; Somerset CBD improvements; Wynyard’s Waterfront and Environs Masterplan; Open Space, Sport and Recreation Plan; and the growth of the Tulip Festival.

Mayor Walsh also currently serves as a member or ex-officio member of many com-

The elected Hornsby Shire Council 2022.

A new team at Hornsby Waratah-Wynyard Council, Mayor Robby Walsh. munity groups and external committees, including the Cradle Coast Authority, TasWater, Bush Watch Western District Committee, Audit Panel and Australia Day Committee.

He has played an active role in the resource sharing arrangement with Circular Head Council. Prospective nominees will have big shoes to fill, however Cr Walsh is keen to pass on his wealth of knowledge to Mayoral hopefuls.

“I hope that by announcing my intentions to retire early it will allow interested individuals the opportunity to talk to me about the position

and consider if it is suitable for their situation.”

“The immense support I have received from the community throughout the years is greatly appreciated. I sincerely thank the WaratahWynyard community for their continuous support and look forward to passing the baton to a new Mayor who no doubt will continue the fantastic projects we already have planned and contribute some fresh new ideas for the future” Cr Walsh said.

Local elections in Tasmania will be held in October, with Mayor Walsh’s term expiring on 31 October.

New park honours town clerk The $5.4 million transformation of Thomas H Halton Park at Croudace Bay is complete, with Lake Macquarie’s biggest playground outside Speers Point Park now open for fun and games.

Descendants of Thomas H Halton – a former Town Clerk instrumental in saving the foreshore tract as a public reserve – cut the ribbon on the new playground on Saturday, marking the end of a 12-month construction project that included a new skate park, fenced dog exercise area, hit-ball wall and half basketball court, exercise equipment, accessible playground and an amenities block.

Standing alongside the family at the weekend’s opening, Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the revamp would make Croudace Bay a destination for people of all ages seeking outdoor fun and fitness.

“This project capitalises on the enormous potential of this lakeside location,” she said.

“The range of accessible facilities for children, teenagers and adults now on offer makes this a genuine day out for people from Lake Mac and beyond.”

The new 10,000sqm fenced playground features a 15m-long pirate ship, with slides, rope tunnels and climbing platforms, as well as a shaded area for younger children, three separate swing sets, and picnic shelters with barbecues.

Lake Macquarie City Council Section Manager Community Assets Brendan Callander said a water-play area with three water pumps and multiple flow paths was designed for children to explore and interact.

“A big part of this playground’s design was the natural feel of it,” he said.

“There are lots of rocks, trees and grassy areas, and places for children of all abilities to have some fun and adventure and test their limits safely.”

6 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

New park ready for play.

Among Thomas H Halton’s descendants in attendance at Saturday’s opening was his granddaughter, Lesa Kearney.

Ms Kearney said her grandfather would have been proud to see the transformation of his namesake park.

“It’s a huge honour really,” she said.

“To have something like this named after

him is very special.”

The NSW Government contributed $200,000 to the all-abilities playground through its Everyone Can Play grant program, with Council funding the rest of the park transformation project.

Thomas H Halton Park also features a large foreshore grassed reserve, boat ramp and multiple parking areas.

Hornsby Shire Council held its first general meeting of the 2021 to 2024 Council Term, with five new Councillors taking their Oath or Affirmation of Office.

Council also elected Councillor Nathan Tilbury as Hornsby Shire’s new Deputy Mayor for a 12-month term.

At the February meeting, Council also unanimously endorsed a detailed submission to the NSW Government concerning proposed changes to legislation covering ‘developer contributions’.

Developer contributions are charged

by Council when new development occurs in the Shire to help fund additional facilities to meet the demands of population growth and for employment generation.

They are essential for the provision of infrastructure, including open space, parks, community facilities, local roads, footpaths, stormwater drainage, and for traffic management.

“Council is concerned that the Government’s proposed reforms will have significant financial implications for the delivery of much-needed facilities for our community and may stop future projects like the recent refurbishment of Hornsby Library or the public domain improvements to Peats Ferry Road at Asquith,” said Hornsby Shire Mayor, Philip Ruddock.

“While Council welcomes Government’s proposals to simplify the contributions system and make it more transparent, the draft legislation appears to be inconsistent with such objectives as jobs creation and ensuring councils have reliable revenue streams.”

If the legislation is passed, Council stands to lose 51.3 million dollars over the next 17 years.

This funding is critical to ensuring that necessary community infrastructure is provided without burdening existing ratepayers.

The meeting was preceded by a First Nations Smoking Ceremony conducted

by Uncle Laurie Bimson, a GuriNgai man; and Welcome to Country conducted by Auntie Erin Watkins, a Darug woman.

The full agenda of the meeting, along with details of each item discussed, can be found at hornsby.nsw.gov.au. The video recording of the meeting will be available from tomorrow afternoon.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

NEWS

Meandering northwards You can tell how a town is travelling reasonably quickly - quality of hard and soft infrastructure, pubs and cafes. And the little things like the cleanliness of toilets.

Last month I drove inland from Canberra to Brisbane, and I came across four towns that stood out. And they got me thinking as I drove onwards past remarkably grassy paddocks.

The first stand-out was Young, a solid old town of 10,000 souls. It’s the hometown of my first-ever boss, a pious old Methodist. But it’s bustling place these days.

It’s late summer and the harvesting of wine grapes and vegetables is in full swing. SUVs everywhere. Great scrambled eggs and coffee at city prices in a trendy cafe.

The second was Grenfell, with a population of around 2500. I’d forgotten about its main street with its lovely vintage buildings and three impressive old-style pubs - the Albion Hotel dates back to the 1860s. These pubs are a testament to the memory of Henry Lawson, the town’s famous son who was keen on a drop.

And the sports amenities and parklands are in great shape.

A nice art gallery with some classy work by locals at very reasonable prices. Could more artisans and artists congregate there?

The next day I came across Coonabarabran.

About the size of Grenfell, and it too has a nice feel - better streetscapes and less traffic than I remember. The local council obviously looks after its ovals and parklands.

Coonabarabran surely lives in the memory of many southerners who, in the days of expensive air fares, would load up the Ford or Holden and trek to Queensland along the Newell Highway.

Then onward to Stanthorpe across the Queensland border. A population of 5000, with a sub-tropical climate suited to fruit and vegetables.

It has an interesting network of art galler-

THE GOOD OIL ROD BROWN

ies and a College of Wine Tourism. The latter seems a little incongruous although it’s probably the best place in Queensland to grow wine grapes.

Macleay Island This is a 15 minute ferry ride ($10) from the Redland Bay terminal. No one seems to know the population but it’s probably around 5000. A cute nine hole golf course, a bowls club, and a very good pub. Plenty of mud flats, mud crabs and bronze whaler sharks. Lots of home brew.

No motel, a handful of Bed and Breakfasts.

Roads are pretty average.

The island’s strength is its sense of community. People keep a lookout for each other, and bartering is rampant e.g. trading a kilo of prawns for a litre of moonshine, mowing a lawn in return for a haircut. Wonderful stuff.

Its other strength is the numerous artisans and artists drawn to the island’s peace and quiet. I got talking to the local Arts Group which has plans for an upgraded Arts Centre.

I’m encouraging them to think a little bigger and to try to engineer federal/state collaborative funding and push some best practice aspects to make the project sing. Such a project could really put Macleay Island on the map.

It’s a tricky issue, because if Macleay Island’s permanent population grew to 10,000 would it lose its tranquility?

Public grape crushing at the recent Apple and Grape Festival in Stanthorpe.

Three issues for your contemplation 1. Attracting new residents Much of regional Australia is awaking to renewed investor interest from city-dwellers. The temptation is certainly there for them to sellup their million dollar homes, find somewhere cheaper and just as nice in a regional town, and live off the profit. This trend is strong in seaside towns, but patchy in inland areas.

I recall some US colleagues regaling me with stories of local councils and development bodies taking prospective residents on guided tours i.e. going beyond the role of a real estate agents by spending an hour showing them the sports facilities, the river, the library etc. and shouting them a lemonade at the local golf club. The Yanks argue that this leaves an indelible memory.

In this regard, I figure that communities un-

der 1000 population face an uphill battle to retain services. The interesting opportunity is whether small towns can attract ‘young creatives’ - as well as ‘older creatives’ for that matter - to come and liven up the place.

2. What is your population?

Many community leaders haven’t got a clue of their population. This information can be important in funding applications - indeed decent data about your town’s population shows professionalism.

However the ABS population survey is not that useful because it’s often too aggregated and runs only every five years. I’m wondering if small towns could run their own surveys with the help of the local postie? Or engage Localis, a Brisbane-based company that has expertise in generating population data from phone and telecoms traffic.

3. Carrying capacity of towns Farmers face government regulations about how many stock they can carry.

Well how many people should a town or city carry? We’ve been conditioned to think that population growth is good because it delivers economies of scale, and drives investment and jobs. But the economic, social and environmental externalities are rarely understood.

Take Sydney for example - it is sinking under its own weight but government policy settings hardly adjust to address the crippling costs facing young families, commuters and businesses.

This is a rich field for an aspiring academic - namely to undertake meaningful research to inform policymakers. If you know of someone, please ask them to contact me!

Rod Brown is a Canberra-based consultant and lobbyist specialising in industry/regional development, investment attraction and clusters, and accessing federal/state grants. He also runs the Cockatoo Network. Phone 0412 922559 - Email rodbrowncockatoo@gmail.com

Efficient management of your airport We have a solution!

• Professional and qualified staff to ensure critical airport assets are managed with a focus on CASA compliance and safety with a focus on profitability.

• We can provide smaller regional airports with AROs and personnel needed to ensure safe and profitable management while meeting CASA regulations. We can also provide qualified and competent Works Safety Officers to manage complex airport works projects, allowing regular staff to continue with their duties.

TRAINING • Aerodrome Reporting and Works Safety Officer theory training in accordance with CASA regulations.

• Aircraft Radio Operators Certificate (AROC), Aviation English LIteracy Proficiency (AELP) and General English Literacy Proficiency (GELP) assessment.

• Authority to Drive Airside (ADA) training and assessment.

• Airside induction package development and delivery for contractors.

AIRPORT RELIEF STAFF • Reduce the impact of staff shortages with experienced CASA compliant Aerodrome Reporting and Works Safety Officers.

• Local and cost-effective. Fully qualified and trained Aerodrome Reporting and Works Safety Officers strategically based in each Australian State to minimise travel and mobilisation costs to site.

• Our staff are available for short and long term periods during planned absences or the duration of a recruitment process.

Discuss your specific needs today by contacting: contact@ozairports.com.au | Mobile: 0407 721 664 | ozairports.com.au LGFOCUS.COM.AU

12531189-HC03-22

COMPLIANCE & PROFITABILITY

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 7

COUNCILOR PROFILES

Suzette Beresford PSM - Paroo Mayor The Paroo Shire covers a large area of south west Queensland adjoining the NSW border.

The town of Cunnamulla is located approximately in the middle of the shire on the banks of the Warrego River at the crossroads where the main inland highways travelling north/south and east/west meet. There are three smaller towns in the Shire, Wyandra to the north, Eulo on the Paroo River to the west and the opal mining town of Yowah to the north-west famous for the beautiful opal gemstone found within the “Yowah Nut”.

It is also home to seven traditional owner groups, the Kunja, Kooma, Kullilli, Mardigan Budjiti, Murrawarri and Bidjara.

The shire is rich in natural beauty and known for its many species of birdlife. It is also the site of archeological digs where extinct megafauna such as the Diprotodon, a large marsupial, has been discovered.

Agriculture is our main industry with most rural properties running a mixture of cattle, goats and sheep for wool and/or meat.

The Cunnamulla Fella statue sits proudly in the centre of town and has become a must have photo opportunity for visitors.

The statue represents the typical ringer from the region in the 1950’s as portrayed in the well-known song the Cunnamulla Fella written

by Stan Coster and made famous by the legendary Slim Dusty.

CBD business allows easy community access I’ve been in local government four and a half years, having been elected at a by-election in September, 2017 and becoming the Deputy Mayor. I was subsequently elected Mayor at

the 2020 local government elections.

I became involved in local government following a number of approaches from members of the community and seeing an opportunity to help make a difference to our community’s future through being part of local government.

When not at the Council office my time is spent at my retail business.

Being one of the shire’s small businesses gives me an insight into how our local economy is faring and my presence in the CBD allows members of the community easy access to catch up with me most days.

The key challenges for Paroo Our key challenges are being sustainable into the future, improving digital connectivity across the shire, housing and embracing the opportunities of a changing environment are some of our key challenges.

Like many other Councils, we rely on government funding to provide for infrastructure so planning is not straightforward when the project is reliant on a successful outcome from a suitable funding stream which may not be readily available.

In order to allow economic development to progress within our towns and throughout our agricultural sector the introduction of new technology is essential and the Council has embarked on projects to start and meet that need. We are also developing our tourism industry with the establishment of a Hot Springs, Riverwalk and River Boat Cruise Project to be completed this year.

The Council is working on a three year project to attract skilled migrants to the shire.

Increasing the population, expanding the busi-

ness sector and attracting people with skills that are currently in short supply are the major goals of this project.

Local Government successes In early 2020 the Paroo Shire received flood damage to many of its Shire roads. Over the two financial years from July 2020 to June 2022 we have been carrying out repair work under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, a REPA project with approved work of up to $49M. At the start it was decided that this work if possible would be undertaken by local contractors and Council roadwork teams.

That decision resulted in seven local contractors who were pre-qualified suppliers tendering for numerous work packages, providing local employment opportunities and retaining the economic benefits within the Shire.

There was a further unforeseen benefit when Covid-19 restrictions and border closures were put in place that the work was able to be carried out without delays due to only local contractors being involved and that also reduced the likelihood of the pandemic being introduced at a time when it hadn’t spread to our region.

This has been a large roadworks project for a small rural/remote Shire to undertake and whilst we still have a few more months till completion, it certainly has been a success to date.

What being a councillor means It allows me to be part of the decision making that shapes the future of the Shire and being able to help members of the community or local organisations with their issues through information or advocacy.

Mayor of Paroo, Suzette Beresford.

Also seeing the positive affect on the local community when Council achieves successful completion of significant new infrastructure that will service the community for many years to come, like the Civic and Community Enterprise Centre ($6.2M) and the Waste Water Treatment Plant ($9M). Both of these project were funded by the Queensland Government and officially opened in March, 2021 However being in council is not all plain sailing -sometimes working within Local Government can be frustrating. It can be a slow process to achieve outcomes, particularly if it involves change.

Hopefully the future will bring a closer working relationship between the Council and the Paroo Shire community; Sustainable development and innovation to grow the Shire whilst maintaining its culture and environment; and Continuous improvement to its liveability.

Mayor Mark Jamieson - Sunshine Coast I love the Sunshine Coast – our fantastic natural assets, our landscapes and the outstanding lifestyle we enjoy. It is why I choose to live here. But the Sunshine Coast is so much more.

Right now, we are writing a significant new page in the history of our region. We are shaping a strong community with a 20-year plan to help our region thrive. We are ensuring we remain second to none when it comes to our environmental credentials and our ability to respond to the impacts of a changing climate.

We are also building a smart economy that delivers jobs and opportunities for our community in the digital age.

As one of Queensland’s fastest growing regions and a key contributor to the productivity of the Australian economy, the Sunshine Coast is becoming one of Australia’s leading city-regions for the 21st century.

Our vision for the Sunshine Coast is as Australia’s most sustainable region - a healthy, smart and creative city-region with its own identity, but intimately connected to the world.

Today, our Council is one of only three of the 77 councils in Queensland to receive a strong financial sustainability rating from the Queensland Treasury Corporation – and we intend to keep it this way.

From Media to Mayor I have been the Mayor of the Sunshine Coast Council (the fifth largest local government in Queensland) for nearly ten years, having been first elected in April 2012. Prior to that, I had an extensive career of nearly 30 years in chief executive and senior leadership roles in media and publishing.

When I first decided in 2011 to run for election as Mayor, we were at the height of the Global Financial Crisis and the Sunshine Coast was on its knees - with high unemployment, high rates of business failure and closure and average household incomes some 22 per cent below the State average at that time.

The Council at that time also had no blueprint for the future; no viable economic plan that business, industry and the community bought into; and an inability to bring the State and federal governments to the table to address decades of underinvestment in the infrastructure that our rapidly growing region desperately needed.

I was determined that our Sunshine Coast had a Mayor who could set a clear vision for our region, reinvigorate our economy, ensure we continued to safeguard our natural assets and liveability and build a more inclusive and welcoming community. Balance is what 8 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

Mark Jamieson. shapes everything I do – along with a personal commitment to always do what I say I am going to do. I have maintained faith with this commitment every day as Mayor.

Six-year state-wide role Since October 2016, I have had the honour to represent the Mayors and Councillors across our state as President of the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ). Further, in 2018 I was nominated by the LGAQ as a director of LGIA Super. In both roles I represent the interests of our local government family – from advocating for major funding and legislative reforms to enable Councils to better respond to the needs of their communities, to contributing to the long-term financial wellbeing of the local government workforce.

Both roles help to provide me with a more expansive and informed perspective of the challenges and opportunities confronting local government and how I can help to shape how my own council’s response in the best interests of our community.

This has been of particular significance over the last two years, as all councils have grappled with the impacts and challenges for their communities from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Future Challenges Like all councils, the most immediate challenge is navigating the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic – helping our community and local businesses to get back on their feet and adjusting to the new “Covid-normal” way of life.

For our council specifically, as a coastal council, one of our greatest challenges now and in the years ahead is our approach to climate change adaptation and how we better prepare our community, our region and our infrastructure for the impacts of a changing climate.

Another of the highest priorities for our

council is recapturing the economic momentum that was in play on the Sunshine Coast prior to the pandemic and ensuring our major investments associated with the new international broadband submarine cable, the expansion of the Sunshine Coast Airport and the development of the new city centre in Maroochydore, all deliver the economic, employment and income dividends we envisaged for our community.

Innovation is the key Our Council has a well-established record of being an innovator and an Australian-first – from being the first government in mainland Australia to offset more than 100 per cent of its entire electricity consumption with renewable energy generated from our solar farm, to introducing the first automated waste collection system in a CBD setting in the nation.

Naturally our thirst for innovation and creativity does not stop there. We are continuing to pursue new opportunities such as the establishment of Australia’s first digital trade hub, off the back of our investment in the international broadband submarine cable network.

Likewise, we have established our Blue Heart Sunshine Coast, which is 5000 hectares of largely agricultural land in the Maroochy River catchment which we are seeking to preserve for its intended purpose as flood storage, but also looking to pursue blue carbon storage opportunities in this area. This will provide an ongoing economic return for both private landowners and the public agencies (like Council) which have significant landholdings in this area.

Broadband and Olympic partnership a standout For me there are two that particularly stand out achievements for the council in my time as mayor.

The first is securing the partnership with RTI-C to deliver the international broadband submarine cable network to the Sunshine Coast – providing the only international data connection on the eastern seaboard of Australia outside of Sydney, and the fastest data and telecommunications transmission from Australia to Asia. This opportunity will fundamentally transform the future opportunities and structure of the economy for our Sunshine Coast.

Secondly, is the role which I played with some of my Mayoral colleagues in south east Queensland to secure the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While many other politicians in the State and Federal gov-

ernments seek to rewrite history and claim all the credit, it was local government that started this process in 2015.

People like my good friend and former Lord Mayor of Brisbane Graham Quirk and myself worked hard to forge relationships with the International Olympic Committee and to bring very reluctant state and federal governments to the table, so they could see the enormous opportunities that hosting the Games could provide for South East Queensland, the state as a whole and the nation.

If it wasn’t for the initial efforts of some of the Mayors in south east Queensland, the Games would not be coming here in just over ten years’ time.

Community connection a favourite Without a doubt it the connection we forge with our community is my favourite part of being a councillor.

Whether it be the people we work with in Council, the people we represent in our region or those whom we work with beyond our region to get the best outcomes for our Sunshine Coast. Being afforded the trust to drive new ideas and opportunities to improve the well-being and liveability of our residents and our communities is an incredible honour and one that I never under value.

Every evolving to do list My to-do list is never empty! There is much still to be done and that is what keeps me so passionately enthusiastic about my role and our community.

Without a doubt, securing State and Federal government investment on a desperately needed, efficient, reliable and sustainable public transport network for the Sunshine Coast is front of mind for me and for our council.

As our region grows to over 500,000 people in less than 20 years from now and with congestion already eroding the liveability of our Sunshine Coast, a significant part of our work at present is focussed on advocating for a better, integrated public transport system for our Sunshine Coast.

Obviously, what we also want to ensure is that we have a clear legacy plan for our Sunshine Coast as a result of being a key delivery partner in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – a plan that captures opportunities right across our community for those with a disability, for our First Nations peoples, for local businesses and suppliers and for our children and young people - who are our foundations for the future.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

NEWS

Flood scam warning Flood affected Queenslanders are being warned to be aware of ‘claims farmers’ who often crop up in the wake of disasters to offer assistance with their insurance claim.

The Queensland Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said these firms are sometimes also known as ‘claims management services’ and will act as a go-between for a person or business and their insurance company, offering to do the leg work on their insurance claim for a fee.

“We want Queenslanders to be protected, understand the risks and not fall victim to agreements they signed during what is a stressful time,” Minister Fentiman said.

“Many of these claims farmers entice customers to use their services by offering a free inspection, promising your claim will go to the front of the queue or promising a guaranteed cash settlement.

“Sadly, we have also heard of cases where Queenslanders have been given the impression the person is from government or acting on a law firm’s behalf.”

The Attorney-General said it’s important for Queenslanders to know that they don’t need to use a third party to assist with an insurance claim and they can deal directly with their insurer.

“If you are thinking about signing up to a claims management service, it’s so important you understand the risks,” she said.

“And importantly, you should not sign anything which prevents you from dealing directly with your insurer, broker, financial adviser or your own lawyer.”

There are a number of possible risks when dealing with a claims farmer, including: The firm will usually seek a cash settlement as the resolution. This could mean: You will lose the option for your insurer to arrange the repairs which can sometimes be a complicated process. Insurers also offer

·

guarantees – sometimes for life – on the work they do.

You may be left out of pocket in situations where the repair costs are uncertain.

You may have to pay the firm directly if your insurance company does not pay the claim.

The firm may unreasonably inflate your claim to increase their own fee. This means: Some firms may drag the claim out for a long time arguing for an unrealistic amount.

The arrangement between a person and a claims management service/claim farmer is a civil contract. This means: If you have any problems with the firm, you will need to engage a lawyer and possibly got to court to resolve it.

The following agencies will be unable to assist: the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Australian

· · ·

· ·

Competition and Consumer Commissioner, the Office of Fair Trading, Australian Financial Complaints Authority.

The Attorney-General said any Queenslander concerned about the conduct of a claims management service or claims farmer should conduct the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

“You do not need to worry if you don’t have your insurance documents. If you can’t remember who your insurer is, you can contact the Insurance Council of Australia and they will help you find your insurer,” she said.

Insurance regulation falls within the Commonwealth Government’s responsibilities and the laws are administered by ASIC. To contact Australian Securities and Investment Commission phone 1300 300 630.

To contact the Insurance Council of Australia phone 1800 734 621.

Naming: Dark day The High Court of Australia ruling that gives major parties a monopoly on generic words in their party name has been described as a dark day for democracy by the valiant defenders.

From left Jessica McCarthy, director of product development and customer experience, Mai Hughes, CEO and co-founder, Elizabeth Jay, director of operations and Yuki Higashi, executive chef.

Women’s wages falling faster Australian women are bearing the brunt of falling wages, with real average weekly ordinary time earnings over the last year falling faster for women than for men according to the McKell Institute.

By crunching the latest ABS Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE) data and adjusting for each state’s capital city CPI, the McKell Data Briefing Report found: Real wages for women fell by 1.6 per cent in 2021, compared with 1.2 per cent for men - Real wages fell fastest for Victorian and Queensland women compared to their male counterparts “On International Women’s Day 2022 not only are we failing to close gender pay gap,

but average weekly earnings for women are falling,“ said McKell Institute CEO Michael Buckland said.

“Across Australia both men and women are doing it tough with the value of their pay packets falling in real terms. But this data shows women are doing it that much tougher.

“Across Australia both men and women are doing it tough with the value of their pay packets falling in real terms. But this data shows women are doing it that much tougher.

“If the federal government is not deeply alarmed by this data there’s something very, very wrong. Falling real wages will be a factor in the upcoming election, and right now it’s women who are bearing the brunt of it.

“Real wages are contracting and there’s no focused plan to turn things around.

“This data unfortunately paints a grim picture for Australian wage equality this International Women’s Day.“

Surfers support ban on drilling Victorian surfers are swinging in behind a new Bill that would ban offshore drilling for oil and gas in Victoria, which is being introduced to the Victorian Parliament today.

The Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Amendment (No New Oil or Gas Activities) Bill 2022 would place an important and immediate ban on any future offshore drilling to protect the precious coastlines and marine life of Victoria.

This bill follows a ban on offshore drilling and mining by the NSW Government two weeks ago.

Surfers For Climate supports these bold and necessary moves by State governments, LGFOCUS.COM.AU

applauding MP’s who step up and use their power to enforce climate solutions.

Surfers For Climate member Dani Harmshaw is attending Victorian Parliament, with her wetsuit and board, supporting positive climate action and the protection of the ocean.

“I’ve spent most of my life either on, in or by the ocean. It’s such a unique system that just gives and gives to humanity,” ecologist and Mornington Peninsula resident Ms Harmshaw said.

“If we continue to allow offshore drilling in VIC we risk polluting the ocean and devastating a delicate ecosystem full of whales, seals, dolphins, local fish species, birds, not to mention all the strange and curious species in the ocean that everyone forgets about like squids and kelps.

“It’s time we stop taking from the ocean and stop being so consumptive as a species, or at the very least use renewable energy sources to fuel our existence.”

Liberal Democrats NSW Senate Candidate and plaintiff John Ruddick said the party had had proudly held its name since 2001, stepped up to the David and Goliath battle in response to a challenge by the Liberal Party of Australia.

He said the Liberals joined forces with the Australian Labor Party in the federal parliament to pass legislation - in the peak of the Covid-19 crisis - to silence other parties using the same or similar words in a registered political party’s name.

With a federal election just around the corner, the Liberal Democrats contingent has been sitting on the edge of their seats since the court rose to deliberate on 15 February 2022.

Ruddick, described this month’s ruling as “bitterly disappointing” and warned of the long-term repercussions for democracy.

“The ruling doesn’t just affect the Liberal Democrats: it means that any new party will be hamstrung in what it can register itself as, with words ‘labor’, ‘liberal, ‘green, ‘nation’, ‘united’ and ‘federation’; effectively banned from use,” Mr Ruddick explained.

“Our name, the Liberal Democrats, is the most accurate reflection of what we stand for, so we couldn’t sit idly by and let the Liberal Party take it away from us without putting up a fight. We have had Senators and members of the Victorian and Western Australian parliaments represent us under this name, along with local councillors across the country.

“While the result is bitterly disappointing, this case has shown that the Liberal Party is running scared and have finally woken up to the fact that the Liberal Democrats is Australia’s only true liberal party,” he concluded.

The Liberal Democrats has a proud history of advocating for citizen-trusting, freedom-loving and small government policies. The party is contesting the 2022 federal election with a full suite of policies outlined in our Freedom Manifesto.

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 9

NEWS

Scrutiny on ‘news’ site Bundaberg Regional Council’s multi-media ‘news’ service Bundaberg Now has been subject to further criticism from the Federal Government and media industry groups, as Mayor Jack Dempsey leaps to its defence.

Bundaberg Now has been labelled as ‘very concerning’ by the Chairperson of the federal Parliamentary inquiry into regional newspapers, Dr Ann Webster MP, during proceedings.

This follows recent criticism by Federal Communications Minister Paul Fletcher, who said he believed that key aspects of Bundaberg Now “‘raise serious concerns from the perspective of those who recognise the importance of independent sustainable media outlets being able to hold Government to account”.

Minister Fletcher has also said “..it is troubling that this publication (Bundaberg Now) is presented to give the impression of being an independent news organisation when in fact it is fully funded by the Bundaberg Regional Council and its coverage of the Mayor and the Council verges on hagiographic”.

Andrew Manuel, president of the Country Press Association (CPA) representing indepen-

dent regional news publishers, has called on the Bundaberg Regional Council to close down its ‘news’ division on the grounds it is misleading and inappropriate for a local government to own and control a news outlet that reports on itself.

“Bundaberg Regional Council (BRC) is the only council in Australia that owns and directly operates its own large scale multi-media ‘news’ division, and we welcome the support of the Minister for Communications as we ramp up our campaign to have it stopped, ” Mr Manuel said.

“Bundaberg Now presents itself publicly as an independent local news service, but it’s not. It’s owned and controlled by Council, and concerningly it now appears that the local government in Bundaberg spend more ratepayer money on journalism staff and ‘news’ resources than any genuine independent news media organisation in Bundaberg, including the ABC,

which is extraordinary and entirely inappropriate.”

“This has galvanised support from the entire independent regional news media industry in Australia. The ABC has labelled Bundaberg Now as a propaganda machine and we have several leading media and legal academics supporting our campaign.

“In our letter to Minister Fletcher and others I warned that we believe our concerns about Bundaberg Now are a ‘canary in the coal mine’ type warning and we are concerned for the fundamentals of democracy at a community level if this type of service is duplicated elsewhere.”

The Mayor of Bundaberg, Jack Dempsey, has defended Bundaberg Now in a submission to the Inquiry into regional newspapers, saying: “‘Bundaberg Now was established

by Council in January 2019 as a community service and to improve communication.

Bundaberg Now provides a free online platform for publishing news that’s relevant to the Bundaberg Region, including from Council and regarding Council services. The website also publishes news from groups, individuals and other organisations that’s relevant to the Bundaberg Region, with many community groups seeking and welcoming greater support to share their messages. The website highlights “good” news about local community organisations, businesses, events and people’s achievements along with community announcements such as emergency updates and weather warnings.”

Cr Dempsey also offered recommendations to the Inquiry, including: “The Australian Government should provide funding for highquality public interest journalism in regional Australia (additional to the ABC) to address market failure in commercial media, encourage new enterprises, promote media diversity and improve the breadth and quality of local news”.

Ballarat reflects upon Sorry Day The City of Ballarat, in conjunction with the Ballarat Koori Engagement Action Group (KEAG), was proud to host a National Apology Day event on 13 February 2022 at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

This day commemorates the formal apology former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made to the Stolen Generations, those Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were removed as children from their families and their cultures.

Ballarat Aboriginal Elder Murray Harrison, who travelled to Canberra to hear the apology in person, spoke at the event to describe the profound impression this had on him.

City of Ballarat Mayor Daniel Moloney said the event allowed Ballarat, as a community,

to reflect on and remember the National Apology and the effect it had on the Stolen Generations.

“February 13, 2008 was a landmark day in Australia’s history and it is important to take a moment to pause and remember the apology

and what it meant to the Stolen Generation,” Cr Moloney said before the event.

“It will give me great pleasure to attend this event and to listen to Murray Harrison’s first-hand impression of this momentous occasion.

Shepparton Marathon.

Shepparton looking forward to Games

ADJUSTABLE MASSAGE BED by

12535000-AV11-22

10 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

Greater Shepparton City Council is seeing the culmination of more than five years work come to fruition with the announcement from the Victorian State Government that it will bid for a regional cities 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“Regional Victoria is ready to welcome the Commonwealth Games”, Regional Cities Victoria Chair and Mayor of Greater Shepparton, Cr Kim O’Keeffe, said.

“I am absolutely thrilled for our region and for all of Victoria.”

“We have been involved in the development of a regional cities model for a number of years with a pre-feasibility study completed in early 2020. This was contributed to by the State Government and several regional councils including Shepparton, Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo,” said Cr O’Keeffe.

“We set up a Commonwealth Games Working Group, chaired by Adem Karafili, which has worked tirelessly on the bid for a regional games.”

“The Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 was a great success. A Victorian Commonwealth Games in 2026, hosted across the state, will be an event to remember, and will show the world what Victoria has to offer.”

Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe said the news was absolutely fantastic for Greater Shepparton.

“This will be the economic boost that our region and many regional areas need after two years of pandemic impact.”

Regional cities are well placed to support such an event with the potential to create significant economic and social opportunities for local businesses and the community.

The regional model is a good one with great facilities and infrastructure already available.

Shepparton has a proven track record of hosting successful large scale international events such as the 2020 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup. Shepparton’s Victoria Park Lake also hosted the 2017 and 2018 World Tour Beach Volleyball events along with several international standard Triathlons, with the ability to host bigger events in the future.

Greater Shepparton City Council CEO Peter Harriott said “while we are fortunate to have some world class infrastructure in our region, we also welcome investment towards new and updated facilities.”

“We understand that this is a big expenditure for the state and we look forward to working closely with the government to make this happen,” said Mr Harriott.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

NEWS

Housing needs to be addressed Mount Alexander Shire Council has secured a $200,000 grant to address growth and housing needs in the shire.

The funding will be used to prepare a housing and neighbourhood character strategy for the towns of Castlemaine, Campbells Creek and Chewton.

Mt Alexander Shire Council Infrastructure and Development director Michael Annear said the purpose of the strategy was to: understand the changing housing needs in the community identify potential sites for housing within urban areas and designate appropriate areas for future development take into account the character, heritage values and environmental factors of each neighbourhood

· ·

·

design guidelines for clearer guid· prepare ance and certainty for future development changes to planning policy in the · inform Mount Alexander Planning Scheme.

He said the strategy aims to address the growth and housing pressures in these towns.

“Our Council Plan 2021-2025 specifically includes a list of strategies and actions relating to the housing affordability challenge in our community,” said Mr Annear.

“This includes looking at ways to encourage diverse housing options and residential development in the shire.”

“It will also consider the needs of both current and future residents, and aspirations

in managing future population growth and housing.

“Our community will play an important role in shaping the strategy, and we’re really looking forward to working together on this.”

In the coming months, the council will prepare a discussion paper which will be released for community input in late 2022.

The grant was received with thanks from the Victorian Government under the Victorian Planning Authority’s Streamlining for Growth Program 2021-2022.

Residential house under construction.

Fleets conference focus Fleet management is important for many reasons according to IPWEA, which is holding it’s annual fleet conference later this month in Brisbane.

According to the IPWEA, firstly, fleets are valuable assets in their own right and the cost of holding and operating a fleet can account for a significant part of an organisation’s budget.

Secondly, the fleet can have a direct impact on operational effectiveness and service delivery. A fleet that is fit-for-purpose, safe and reliable supports effective operations and the delivery of corporate goals. Fleets that are not suited to the task or are not well-maintained carry risks through potential injury to workers and others, lost productivity and higher wholeof-life costs.

Finally, there are specific legislative obligations on the operators of fleets such as Chain

of Responsibility. Breaches can lead to significant penalties for senior management and reputational damage for the organisation.

The challenge for fleet managers is that while technology and regulatory compliance is increasing, making fleet management more complicated and time consuming, there are continual budget pressures and the need to do more with less. To achieve this, fleet managers need to be equipped with the knowledge skills and resources to meet these challenges. This is IPWEA FLEET’s mission – to provide training, resources and networks that help fleet managers meet day to day challenges and prepare for the future.

With this in mind, IPWEA will be holding its annual Australasian Fleet Conference in Brisbane 28 – 30 March 2022. The focus for the conference is Leading Fleet Management Through Change. Delegates will hear from a host of eminent and expert speakers, including an international speaker from the USA, providing an insight into contemporary fleet management.

The USA perspective will be delivered by Paul Lauria, President of Mercury Associates the largest dedicated fleet management consultancy in North America. Paul will talk about managing a fleet in an increasingly changing world and time of significant business disrup-

tion. He will also discuss how effective leadership not only manages change but thrives in it.

In addition, conference speakers will cover a broad range of relevant topics including fleet improvement, risk management, safety, cost savings and technological development. The conference includes an expo and various networking functions and wraps up with a field trip visiting Komatsu’s new Innovation Hub. The IPWEA Australasian Fleet Conference is organised by the fleet industry for the fleet industry. The conference is a great value for money and practical way to help fleet practitioners get the most out of their fleets. Find out more at www.fleetconference.com.au

LEADING FLEET MANAGEMENT THROUGH CHANGE

24+

100+

35+

sessions

attendees

exhibitors

REGISTER NOW FACE TO FACE or VIRTUAL

ROYAL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE | BRISBANE WWW.FLEETCONFERENCE.COM.AU 12539823-AV11-22

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 11

NEWS

New facility for Mt Isa The design of the proposed Centennial Place facility on the corner of Miles Street and Grace Street has been finalised.

The Mt Isa Council with the council’s next step to call for tenders to make it a reality.

In 2021, the Council engaged urban design and landscape architecture consultants Tract to provide two concept designs for Centennial Place. Both went out for public consultation and feedback, giving residents the opportunity to vote for their preferred concept design.

Two public consultation meetings were also held in November to provide locals with more information about the proposed project.

With about 140 votes, Concept A was the preferred design winning by two votes.

Given the slim margin of the vote result, Council’s project team decided to keep the overall design of Concept A – which included a large circular grassed area, concrete seating, container kitchens, covered cafe-style seating, a Centennial Walk covered area, shade trees, and toilet facilities – but include design elements of Concept B, to reach a final design that will appeal to as many people as possible.

The additional elements included an extra container kitchen, an extra separate lunch/dining area, more trees and arbours over the Centennial Walk entrances to provide more shade, and more seating.

“It should cost about $3.5 million in total to build, so as a Council we will look at external funding opportunities that may be available to us so that we can bring this exciting project to the community,” Mayor Danielle Slade said.

“This is an extremely exciting project, and I can’t wait to see it.

“The brief for this project was ‘as cool and shady as possible’, and this final design definitely hits that mark, with lots of covered areas and shade trees, and water misters and a water feature to keep people cool.”

Cr Slade said a number of funding opportunities have been identified, and Council would move forward with applying for funding before putting the project out for tender.

“The design for Centennial Walk is an homage to the 100-year history of the city of Mount Isa, with a total of 10 sections each highlighting a different decade, from the beginning right up to the present day,” she said.

“There are opportunities for an ‘Eat Street’ area, with a number of container kitchens, as well as pop-up stalls on the oval area.

“There’s also a secluded area where people can go and have lunch or coffee and meet up with friends.”

Centennial Place Design.

FOCUS ON DIESEL DIRT TURF 2022

National expo for all things Diesel and Dirt With April 2022 not far away, many more companies supplying the earthmoving, construction and public space management industry have been snapping up larger sites at the National Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo.

If you are looking for the right time to launch a new product or service, Diesel Dirt & Turf is definitely the place to do it, especially if your product is technically complex. There is no substitute for face to face interaction, as this

allows customers to spend time asking the right questions and understanding the benefits of your sales proposition.

A solid supply chain with predictable, reliable delivery, parts and service is more impor-

tant today than ever before, so your presence Diesel Dirt & Turf is a great way to reinforce your total company offerings and how you are going to support your customers. Imparting this message in a relaxed and friendly environment will go a long way to helping cement better relationships with your customers.

Major sponsors show the way Expo Gold sponsor Komatsu is back in 2022 to showcase its expansive range of earthmoving equipment. Komatsu Australia has the largest factory owned branch network in the construction, mining and heavy equipment industry, with 42 branches and service depots, supported by 41 contract sites in key mining and civil projects, nationally. They will be showcasing their complete range of wheel loaders, excavators, backhoes, skid steers and much more.

Gold media sponsor Earthmovers & Excavators Magazine and Trade Earthmovers have also recognised the huge importance of this major Expo.

A favourite drawcard for Diesel Dirt & Turf visitors is the annual auction by 2022 sponsor, Pickles Auctions, together with associate sponsors include industry leaders like Kerfab, Norm Engineering, CreditOne, Expo sponsor XCMG, Cappro Pacific, Yellow Cover, Truck Assist and Earthmoving Equipment Magazine.

For exhibitors and visitors, the Sydney Dragway offers plenty of parking and great food choices throughout the Expo space. It’s also an ideal venue to network with your industry associates.

Whether you want to know what exhibition sites are available, or are planning to attend, visit www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au or call 0411 648 465 to be part of the action at Australia’s largest and most successful construction and earthmoving industry Expo.

VEGETATION CONTROL RIG AT HALF THE COST OF TRACTOR/SLASHER COMBO – SEE US AT DTT EXPO 8-10 APR OPPOSITE FOOD HALL

12538184-CG10-22

Expo organisers believe there is no better time to show the market the latest in products, services and technical solutions. The economy is forging ahead, fuelled by continued expenditure on major infrastructure projects and residential development.

Thanks to the expansive Expo site of the Sydney Dragway, together with its outstanding facilities for exhibitors and visitors alike, this is the place to be for any business that is serious about its place in the earthmoving and construction market.

A magnet for decision makers Trade exhibitions always attract major decision-makers across the industry, so if businesses want to get onto customers’ radar as a supplier, Diesel Dirt & Turf represents a unique opportunity to connect with key people.

Every business needs to generate new leads and engage with prospects who have planned their visit to the Expo to check out the latest. Even though potential buyers may not be ready to sign on the day, it is an outstanding opportunity for suppliers to start building a relationship or cementing existing engagement with customers.

It’s not only new customers who will be there. Many exhibitors come back year after year because it’s the best way for them to reinforce and maintain relationships with existing customers to discover changing needs or expectations.

Show your commitment to the market Don’t forget, if you do not exhibit at Diesel Dirt & Turf there is a good chance that your competitors will be there. By taking a stand at the Expo, you give your customers the assurance that you have invested in the market and provides an outstanding platform to explain your products’ point of difference.

• MOW UNDER TREES • TOW BEHIND OR • SAFE ON SLOPES OFFSET • REMOTE HEIGHT ADJUST • NO DECLUTCHING • HEAT/COOL CAB 12 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

FREE TRAINING SEMINAR THURSDAY 7TH APRIL 2022

Hosted and presented by International Greenkeepers.

Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road Eastern Creek.

Plenty of free parking, refreshments and lunch included.

Seminar starts 7:30 am finishes at 1:00 pm, followed by guided visit to exhibitors at the 2022 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo.

Register now at www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/free-training-seminar/ If you work in public space or grounds maintenance planning or construction, you can’t afford to miss this free seminar. Learn about the latest techniques, processes and equipment from some of the industry’s leading professionals.

Key Speakers include:

Peter Kirby: Industrial herbicide options in the current climate. Peter has worked within the turf and ornamental industry in both commercial and technical roles for 19 years, holding positions with Nuturf, NUfarm, Bayer and Adama.

Steven Jacobson: Will present a session on solving slope and grounds maintenance problems. Steve has previously been a golf course greenkeeper and superintendent.

Toby Clarke: International sales director for Dennis mowers and Sisis equipment. Vertical action aerators, hyrdraulic driven scarifiers, self propelled scarifier and de-thatcher and drum aerators.

Ben Gibson: Building a great safety culture through effective leadership. Ben appears on industry podcasts and national Turf Association magazines and a speaker turf industry events in Australia, Asia, New Zealand and the US.

Albie Legget: from Turf Care Australia speaking on disease management. Albie has 30 years sports turf industry experience, He is a qualified greenkeeper and golf course superintedent, holding a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Sydney and involved in technical research

Stephen Foster and James Evins of John Deere: Will speak about advances in smart technology and business lessons from the age of coronavirus.

Other program presenters include Matt Goodbun and Michael Parsons on the topic of top dressing and line marking, Bob Paddison from Turf Drain Australia, Weed Technics, Repco, and International Greenkeepers.

Seminar enquiries: Daryl Davidson 0406 942 363 or Damien Curtis on 0475 514 279

12537787-SN10-22

or email internationalgreenkeepersfh@gmail.com

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 13

RURAL AND REGIONAL

Moura solar farm Greek industrial group Mytilineos is the first renewable energy company that will engineer, construct, and operate a large solar farm in Moura.

Situated between the township of Moura and Banana, the Moura Solar Farm will be home to a large solar panel array that will help power over 43,000 Australian homes each year.

With construction already commenced, the project is expected to the completed around August 2022, and will generate 250 jobs that will help support the local economy.

Banana Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Colin Semple welcomed Mytilineos to the Shire and remarked that the solar farm project would inject significant revenue into the local economy.

“Mytilineos’ decision to develop the Moura Solar farm here is another example of business looking for outstanding opportunities to grow and prosper and the Banana Shire can provide that,” Cr Semple said.

“Spread over 28,000 square kilometres, our Shire provides a mix of agricultural land, a budding new tourism hub, mining and construction opportunities, so it makes perfect sense to do business here.

“We look forward to seeing the innovative new technology that the Moura Solar Farm will provide and watch with interest to see how the industry progresses, particularly in our region,” he added.

Chief Executive Officer Nigel Morris.

CEO is moving

Moura solar farm opening ceremony.

Sitting on approximately 203 hectares of land, the farm will be comprised of an array of photovoltaic panels that will convert the sun’s energy into usable, clean energy. To optimize energy generation, the panels will be placed on a single axis tracking system that will slowly track the sun’s movement across the sky each day.

Along with the panels, the farm will also include an electrical operations room and a substation that will be appropriately fenced off to ensure the safety of nearby communities.

After construction has been completed, the solar farm will have an expected life span of 3050 years and will harness enough energy to support over 43,000 Australian homes each year.

Jean enjoys seniors festival Like so many unsung volunteer heroes in communities, Jean Laundy tends to shy away from publicity.

In 2020, she declined being nominated for a Tweed Local Achievement Award, a feature of the annual Tweed Seniors Festival.

At the time Jean “didn’t think she was worthy enough”.

However in 2021, she was nominated and in a well-kept secret, Jean was totally surprised when she found out she was a recipient of an award.

“It came as a real surprise, especially when Lyn Porter from Council rang to inform me I was getting an award,” Jean said.

Those who know Jean weren’t surprised.

The Banora Point resident has been a volunteer for many different organisations, putting people and animals’ needs before herself.

She joined the Friends of the Pound (FOP) in 2003, showing interest in the animal welfare organisation but really stepped up her involvement around 2007, working the adop-

tion booth and selling raffle tickets.

Jean remains actively involved with FOP, working at the cattery at Tweed Heads South and continuing to sell raffle tickets.

“I love animals – I have cat, dog and a bird but it is very rewarding when you see one of our animals adopted and taken home to a loving environment,” Jean said.

It’s not the only organisation she gives her time to.

You can also find Jean at the Marine Rescue Point Danger facility at Duranbah Beach, working in the gift shop or out at various shopping centres selling raffle tickets.

“I have been there for about four years now, since my husband passed away, and the money we raise goes towards our equipment and operations,” she said.

She has assisted in fundraisers for the Cancer Council and has been a welcome sight around her neighbourhood at Banora

Point, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Grateful to have been presented with a Local Achievement Award in 2021, Jean said she is only one of many people in the community doing great voluntary work.

“There are so many worthy people out there and I encourage anyone to nominate those they know who are making a difference through their actions,” she said.

“Nominees can come from all walks of life and these awards are a wonderful way of giving them some deserved recognition for their efforts.

“To be there and have your name called out is a very proud moment for the person nominated.”

The Local Achievement Awards will be announced at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Tweed Seniors Festival at the Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre Auditorium on Friday 25 March.

Continuing coastal conversation Isaac Regional Council will embark on its next phase of consultations along the Isaac Coast to continue conversations for an evidence-based plan to adapt to a changing coastline.

Four community pop ups will roll out at Carmila, Clairview, Greenhill and St Lawrence between 11-19 March 2022 to provide feedback on the draft Our Resilient Coast: Isaac Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy.

Isaac Regional Council, with support from QCoast 2100 program, is planning for longterm change to the region’s coastline though the draft strategy.

This project is different to the recent changes exhibited in the new Isaac Region Planning Scheme, it provides a holistic strategy to respond to the impacts of storm-tide inundation and coastal erosion as they are influenced by sea level rise.

Deputy Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, who is the chair of the Planning, Environment and Community Services standing committee, said the region needs a strategy to plan, prepare and respond to coastal hazards over time, with emphasis on community awareness and infrastructure resilience.

“Building the resilience of our coastline is one of our top priorities. To do this we need 14 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

Discussions continue on the future of the Isaac coast. to understand how our coast is impacted by coastal hazards today and in the future,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“Understanding current and future coastal hazards, their risks and impact on our community allows us to proactively plan, prepare and respond to them over time.

“We have been open with the community in relation to this process and we are ensur-

ing this due diligence continues since it started more than seven years ago.

Cr Vea Vea said understanding what matters most to residents on the coast will help us plan and identify ways to reduce coastal hazard impacts on these important areas.

“Each coastal community in the Isaac region is different and requires unique adaptation actions,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“This project will help inform future decisions to adapt to coastal changes. It will help to inform coordinated responses, and prioritise actions for Council, other levels of government, community organisations, businesses and industry, and residents.”

Division Eight Councillor Viv Coleman said the Isaac coastal region is made up of four small, discreet coastal communities, sandy beaches with low profile dune systems fronted by broad inter-tidal flats, separated by extensive estuarine wetlands.

“The region has the largest tidal range on mainland Queensland, with a range in the order of seven metres,” Cr Coleman said.

The District Council of Yankalilla in South Australia, has confirmed the resignation of Chief Executive Officer Nigel Morris.

Morris is set to take up a new position as the Chief Executive Officer with neighbouring Alexandrina Council in May this year.

District Council of Yankalilla Mayor Simon Rothwell said they were sad to see Nigel move on.

“On behalf of the council and residents of Yankalilla I would like to thank Nigel for his commitment, dedication and professionalism which has taken our community forward in many ways,” the Mayor said.

“Under Nigel’s leadership over the past six plus years, Council has excelled in areas such as financial, asset management and operational governance and we intend to build on this through his successor.” He said Nigel had conceptualised and driven major projects and initiatives including: The Normanville Village Green – A complete turnaround project in which the old Normanville Township Petrol Station has been transformed into an open green space for the Community to enjoy.

Securing of over $8.8M in external funding to implement the $13.7M Normanville Foreshore Masterplan components of rebuild of Normanville Surf Club and Kiosk/Cafe, Nature Playground, Green Space and carpark reconfiguration, Beach interface ramp including mobility access to the Normanville Jetty and the income generating 23 new cabins in the Jetty Caravan Park Normanville.

The commencement of construction to build the New Yankalilla Library and sealing of the entranceway.

“We are sad to see Nigel go but he leaves us on very good terms and we accept that a leader of his calibre is always going to be in demand in local government.” Mayor Rothwell said.

“We will endeavour to find a new Chief Executive Officer who can continue to take Yankalilla forward and deliver on our vision.

“With Council entering the construction phase with many of our exciting major projects it is reassuring to have Nigel remaining on the Fleurieu at Alexandrina Council with which we have a great ongoing working relationship, should clarification or assistance on the projects be required.

“I am also sure we will be seeing Nigel at many of the official openings upon project completion.” Council will meet on March 15 to determine the process of the selection of a new Chief Executive Officer and interim arrangements following Nigel’s departure at the end of April.

·

·

·

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

RURAL AND REGIONAL

Parkes set to host

A birthday

Goulburn in NSW marked a Parkes Shire Council has won the right to host the prestigious 2023 Local Government milestone earlier this month, NSW (LGNSW) Water Management Conference, which is expected to attract hundreds of with residents invited and encouraged to come along participants from across NSW. to Belmore Park to celebrate The major annual event provides a dedicated the City’s 159th Birthday. forum for local government delegates, water managers and professionals, policy makers from government agencies and key industry stakeholders to discuss water policy initiatives and trends as well as best practice in water governance and management.

LGNSW President Darriea Turley said the past several years have proven how significant the conference is for councils and local water utilities.

“Water security is one of LGNSW’s most pressing advocacy priorities, and as we continue to battle climate change, water management will remain a focal point for local government leaders,” Cr Turley said.

“I’m really delighted that next year’s Conference will be held in Parkes: they have an outstanding record not only in water management but in hosting fantastic events that truly demonstrate the best our regions have to offer.”

Parkes Shire Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM said the council was excited to be hosting the 2023 LGNSW Water Management Conference.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the hundreds of participants to our region and being able to showcase our vibrant Shire and our water infrastructure, which includes the latest water, wastewater, and recycled water technology,” he said.

Cr Turley congratulated Mayor Ken Keith

Parkes Mayor Ken Keith prepares for next year’s conference.

OAM and his team on their top-quality bid to host the 2023 Water Conference.

“Parkes Shire Council has been proactive in investing in water projects to ensure a clean, safe and secure water supply for the future,” Cr Turley said.

“It’s the kind of approach that helps demonstrate why our regional councils are best

placed to help drive a locally-led recovery from the economic impacts of the past few years: drought, fires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I know they will put on a great event, and I look forward to seeing our state’s leading water experts and professionals there in June next year.”

Celebrations were held in the stunning Belmore Park within the CBD from 10am, with the traditional cutting of the cake, and speeches from the Mayor, Federal Member for Goulburn and Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor and the three high school captains.

This year also featured the first presentation of the newly created Goulburn Mulwaree Award.

“There is no better way to start your weekend then with the celebration of our City’s birthday in Belmore Park” said Mayor Peter Walker.

“This is always a very relaxed, fun event, with a particular highlight for me personally being the opportunity to hear from our high school students about what they love about our region.

“For the first time we presented the Goulburn Mulwaree Award recipients, recognising some of the fine citizens of our area.

“This local award was created to recognise outstanding service or meritorious achievement by individuals to the community of the Goulburn Mulwaree Local Government area.”

Goulburn is Australia’s first inland city, proclaimed by a Royal Letters Patent issued by Queen Victoria on 14 March 1863, when the Diocese of Goulburn was proclaimed.

Home for Bald Archys A collection of satiric portraits from the unique Bald Archy Prize art exhibition will be donated to Wagga Wagga Council’s Museum of the Riverina.

Council this week agreed to the offer of donation from the estate of the exhibition founder the late Peter Batey OAM which consists of 27 winning portraits acquired from previous exhibitions which first started in 1994.

Part of accepting the donation included Council agreeing to administer a future annual acquisitive Bald Archy Prize Art exhibition and related tour in memory of Mr Batey, who passed away in 2019, and acquire the future winning artworks to add to the permanent collection holding.

Council’s Director Community Janice Summerhayes said having the collection in Council’s care for future generations to enjoy was at the heart of this decision.

“The Museum of the Riverina will become the custodian of these 27 artworks which say so much about some of the characters in our country,” Ms Summerhayes said.

“The Bald Archys lampoon the egos and excesses of celebrities and politicians. They are portraits of people who dominate the front pages and television headlines, but are not necessarily heroes to everyone.”

Past entries in the Bald Archy.

The Bald Archy Prize art exhibition last toured in 2019 and was exhibited in the ACT, Queensland, Victoria and NSW venues and has previously toured to Wagga Wagga and the wider Riverina region.

Visitation numbers to previous exhibitions of the Bald Archys in Wagga Wagga have always been strong, with visitors travelling from both within the region and more widely from NSW, ACT and Victoria.

The exhibition and prize has become part of the annual Australian art calendar. It is unique in many ways, highlighted by the chief judge who is a sulphur crested cockatoo named Maude.

Museum of the Riverina Manager Luke Grealy, standing beside a portrait of Bald Archy Prize founder Peter Batey OAM and some past winning portraits in the background.

Pictures: WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL LGFOCUS.COM.AU

Turtle Tank think tank for Gladestone.

EOI for new motel Flinders Shire Council is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) in developing a new 54- room motel in Hughenden to help with growing demand for accommodation in the region Hughenden, as with all of Western Queensland, requires increased short and long-term accommodation options to satisfy the growing demands of the local community and travellers.

The council has land available for the new motel accommodation, and has now released its EOI to potential interested parties.

Flinders Shire Council Mayor Jane McNamara said current demand for short-term accommodation in Hughenden far exceeds the availability locally.

“We are encouraging the development and operation of all forms of accommodation in Hughenden, including motels, apartments, cabin parks and hostels to increase the capacity of Hughenden’s temporary accommodation,” Cr McNamara said.

“We believe there will also be further demand on currently limited resources due to Council’s plans for stimulating economic development in the Shire.

“As a result, there is a strong case for viability of an additional motel accommoda-

tion in Hughenden. “We are now looking for all interested parties to submit an outline of their own proposal based on the form(s) of accommodation they would like to develop on the site.”

The site comprises of two parcels of freehold land owned by Council, and is located at McLay Street and Flinders Highway Hughenden. It has a 83.9m frontage to McLay Street and an overall 213.8m frontage to the Flinders Highway, including 20.7m between the two parcels.

The frontage of each individual parcel is 96.56m.

The development process is simple, with the Council Planning Scheme supporting the development of 50 rooms on each parcel, along with other associated facilities.

“We intend for the site to be developed as accommodation and associated facilities, for example a restaurant, a pool and a playground,” Cr McNamara said.

“Interested parties can operate the accommodation themselves or lease the accommodation to a third-party operator.”

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 15

RURAL AND REGIONAL

FOCUS ON IPWEA CONFERENCE

Let the good times roll Hay in South Western NSW is about to become the first country town to host the start of the Shitbox Rally fundraiser, as TANIA PHILLIPS reports.

After waiting for two years due to Covid, on Saturday March 26, 500 people in teams of two, in cars worth less than $1,000 (aka shitboxes) will leave Hay, NSW to take part in Shitbox Rally.

Seven days later, they will cross the finish line in Adelaide, SA having travelled over 3,200kms, successfully completing the largest independent fundraiser for Cancer Council nationally.

With more than $28.3 million raised since the rallies began, the $2 million target for this rally is well in sight with current fundraising totals at over $1.67 million.

The event is a bonus for the outback town according to Hay Shire Council Development officer Alison McLean.

“We got a phone call last year from one of the organisers saying they were looking at Hay as a starting point which is the first time that’s ever happened outside of a major city,” Alison said.

“There will be 500 people in 250 cars, leaving from Hay but its actually part of a really big weekend for us.

“With Covid we missed out so many events that now we’re just all desperate to get together as a community.

“So we will also host a Hay, Health and Booligal day organised by one of our local Community groups. This will look at health and wellness and connectivity which has been really important with what we have all been through in the past couple of years.

“That night we actually have Kasey Chambers performing out at the Golf Club to a sellout crowd.

“This will be the first big music event that Hay has ever hosted and we’re really really excited about. I’ve seen a lot of live music and she is the best performer I’ve ever seen.

She makes you feel like you’re sitting in the loungeroom with her she’s amazing.”

Felicity Furey.

Countdown to public works conference Assetic will sponsor the welcome function of this year’s highly anticipated International Public Works Conference to be held in Adelaide in May. The 2022 IPWC promises an important and inspiring speaker line up headed by NSW 2021 Australian of the Year and Commissioner for Resilience NSW Shane Fitzsimmons, who will speak on “Resilience in the Face of Adversity”, a topic just as relevant now as it was two years ago during the NSW bushfires.

Felicity Furey is also being welcomed to this year’s conference. In the world of engineering Felicity skyrocketed to the top to lead some of Australia’s most innovative mega infrastructure projects for the likes of Arup, fortune 500

company AECOM and Brisbane City Council, where she delivered a $45 million dollar transport infrastructure project portfolio at just 23 years-of-age.

With a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and more than 11 years of experience within waste management in the Nordic Countries, Marcos Aritzi CEO StalkIT will speak on “Asset Tracking” in the construction, utility and amp; waste management industries: optimizing processes and fighting loss and “theft”

Let the rally begin.

Youth initiative Swan Hill Rural City Council is delighted to announce that its Fairfax Youth Inititiave will receive $251,000 under the Federal Governments Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.

Since 1997, the Fairfax Youth Initiative has creatively connected young people, schools and the Murray Mallee community.

Mayor Jade Benham said Council was delighted by the announcement.

“This funding will be used to create an inspiring and engaging festival for young people, while giving them the opportunity to work alongside professional artists.

“We take pride in supporting programs that focus on enhancing creativity in young people - it’s a great investment,” Cr Benham said.

Chairman of Fairfax Youth Initiative Steering Committee, Bryce Ives said over the past two years, Fairfax has maintained

connection online, but it’s time for to deliver a youth arts festival that inspires and unites the region.

“We will work with 120+ young people, including with the Swan Hill Rural City Council, local schools, and professional artists, to create a visionary, youthful, and invigorating festival,” Mr Ives said.

“Fairfax engages young people from across the region, in schools and communities in Swan Hill, Mildura, Red Cliffs, Sea Lake, Manangatang, Robinvale, Nyah, Kerang, Wycheproof, Cunninyeuk, Labert, Tooleybuc.

“This is an opportunity that young people in the region have been asking for, and an opportunity they deserve,” Mr Ives said.

Greater efficiencies, more powerful insights An advanced asset management platform, combining data and science, to optimise service level outcomes and capital expenditure.

Contact us for further information about our Asset Management solutions and services.

Proudly supporting IPWC 2022 Come and visit us at stand 25-26 for a live demo to see how we can assist your organisation.

+61 (0)3 9026 0555 contactus@brightlysoftware.com

www.assetic.com

Brightly (formerly known as Assetic), the global leader in intelligent asset management solutions, enables organisations to transform the performance of their assets.

12537854-JW10-22

16 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

FOCUS ON IPWEA CONFERENCE

Shane Fitzsimmons.

Marcos Aritzi.

Founded in 2006, sponsor Assetic delivers complete infrastructure asset management through their industry-specific software and services.

Assetic gives asset management professionals – whether they be engineering or finance focussed – a central repository for all their asset data to enable more efficient and effective outcomes.

They have a strong track record of enabling organisations to make better long-term decisions, thanks to unique algorithms and degra-

dation profiles which assist in forecasting future capital expenditure.

The scalable, modular nature of Assetic, and their strong integration experience, delivers organisations a solution specific to their needs, and flexible enough to be implemented in stages depending on business need, resources and skills.

Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal capital, is bursting with culture, flavours, events and entertainment.

On its doorstep are world-famous wine re-

gions and multiple opportunities to indulge in award-winning restaurants in the heart of the city, making it a great location for the International Public Works Conference.

Presented every two years, ‘Public Works for a Global Future’ is the theme of the Conference with a focus on infrastructure asset management and emerging technologies the Conference will showcase a collection of international and nationally recognised speakers who will be provide valuable insights and help guests navigate the changing landscape

of public works engineering.

A full program, networking including social functions held at iconic venues, a comprehensive exhibition of products and services, technical tours showcasing the very best of the best, and partner tours and activities, this is a Conference offering something for everybody involved with local government engineering.

Starting Sunday 1 May, the Assetic sponsored welcome reception is the first of many networking opportunities available over the four days.

4

streams

50+ exhibitors

LET'S GET TOGETHER AGAIN!

IPWEA International Public Works Conference

100+ speakers REGISTER TODAY

The premier public works conference - by the industry, for the industry

Adelaide 1 - 5 May PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER PLUS SPONSOR

www.ipwc.com.au

PREMIUM SPONSOR

12538083-JC11-22

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 17

FOCUS ON INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

Queensland-born writer Maryrose Cuskelly.

Bevan Kearsley, Kay MacLean, Mayor Mark Jamieson, Dane Cross, and Cr David Law.

Wheels in motion A revolutionary pilot project focused on inclusivity and mobility will change the way the community travels across some popular areas of the Sunshine Coast.

Using modern mapping-technology, wheelchairs have been turned into mapping tools with specially trained local “pilots” and GPS devices installed to track routes from Maroochydore to Mooloolaba.

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said he was pleased council partnered with Briometrix and Spinal Life Australia to undertake the project – both leading providers of technology solutions for people with disabilities.

“This pilot program combines the lived experience of Bevan Kearsley, Dane Cross, Lachy Chapman and Kay MacLean with Briometrix’s innovative technology which collects information about our footpath conditions, access to public transport and parking, amenities, boardwalks, beach accesses and more.”

This innovative pilot project moves away from dated paper-based accessibility maps and when live on council’s website will provide instant, interactive, sustainable and high-tech navigational maps for everyone in our community.

Mobility chief pilot Bevan Kearsley said since 2019 Briometrix has been using wheelchair pilots because it’s the most sensitive mode of transport when it comes to navigating footpaths and allows us to measure the easier routes to take.

“For the course of this program, GPS tracking devices are installed on our wheelchairs.

Kay is using an electric wheelchair measuring the efforts of the streets like the inclines and slopes.

“Dane and I are using the iPads and video

cameras to map and mark the structures, curb ramps, crossings and trip hazards.”

Briometrix CEO Natalie Verdon said the data provides insights that are not otherwise visible to council’s planning professionals.

“More importantly, our online maps ensure that no matter what age, ability or mobility, everyone has the opportunity to enjoy all that the beautiful Sunshine Coast has to offer.”

Sunshine Coast Council will join other local governments and transport authorities across Australia including Brisbane, Townsville, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Wollongong, Sydney, Melbourne and Public Transport Victoria in deploying Briometrix Mobility Maps.

The data is anticipated to go live on Council’s website late-April.

Up Late in the Hornsby Library During the summer of 2021, Ku-ring-gai Council’s Library Up Late events were held to engage the community and promote later opening hours. Events were held between 5pm and 9pm on Thursday evenings at the Gordon branch library.

The Library Up Late program also demonstrated librarians resilience and ability to pivot, as they had a Covid-19 outbreak and a raging storm to contend with.

Before the Omicron wave hit Sydney, the library managed to host a trivia quiz night, a class on how to do cryptic crosswords, a Christmas celebration with a Korean choir from the Dae Hahn Cultural School and a meditation workshop.

Once the Omicron outbreak took hold author talks moved online, as was the case for many other NSW libraries. But this offered the opportunity for a shy journalism student to share questions for the New York Times Australian Bureau Chief Damien Cave on the state

Libraries up late in Hornsby. of Australian journalism – as well as their notes on his book. It also allowed us to reach 1600 people through a live Q&A on Facebook with TV personality and gardening guru Costa Georgiadis.

With the Omicron outbreak under control in

person events had just returned to the library with a honey harvest and beehive building demonstration, when a storm hit. Luckily the honey was harvested in time for people to pick up their chairs and walk inside to one of our meeting rooms for the building demonstration while the wind whipped and rain raged outside.

Library Up Late concluded at the end of February with a talk from Ku-ring-gai’s local history librarian whose fascinating stories showed just how relevant Ku-ring-gai’s history is to its current community identity.

With more programs forthcoming, they know things are unlikely to go as planned… but they hope they’ve perfected the art of enjoying the contingency!

Livingstone finds young readers Livingstone Shire Library has taken out the annual Summer Reading Club competition, beating 320 public libraries across Queensland.

The Summer Reading Club is a fun, free program delivered by the State Library of Queensland to encourage children to keep reading through the summer.

Young readers in Livingstone Shire signed up to complete a range of challenges earning Livingstone Shire Library 2,485 points with Thuringowa Central Library coming in second with 1,780 points.

Kasey Allwood, Coordinator of Library Services, said children participated in a wide range of activities for the competition.

“It’s not all about reading as many books 18 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

as you can, the competition saw kids building forts, cracking codes, listening to audio books, writing book reviews, and creating a costume of a favourite book character,” Ms Allwood said.

“The Summer Reading Club is a great initiative to encourage children and young people to visit and become members of their local library.

“This year we had participants as young as three sign up and complete challenges, which is wonderful to see.

“Congratulations to all the young readers who participated in this year’s challenge.”

Join the chat Fraser Coast Libraries members can join a new, free, online book club and watch live video chats between authors every month following the launch of Ben’s Book Club.

Brisbane author Ben Hobson will chat with authors whose books will be available to library members to read as an eBook, or listen to as an eAudiobook, for free via the Libby app.

Cr David Lewis said the launch event would feature Queensland-born writer Maryrose Cuskelly and her novel The Cane, a story about the disappearance of a 16-year-old girl in a north Queensland sugar town.

He said the real-life disappearance of Mackay girl Marilyn Wallman in 1972, while riding her bike to school, made a lasting impression on the author.

“Maryrose has already written about Marilyn’s disappearance and the way it percolated through her childhood and now has created this fictional story dealing with some of the same themes,” Cr Lewis said.

“Unlimited numbers of Fraser Coast Libraries members can borrow The Cane as an eBook or eAudiobook simultaneously through our Libby app and then join the author talk online on March 22 – all for free.”

Cr Lewis said he was delighted that Libby had launched the online book club to give regional audiences access to successful authors.

“People will be able to type in questions during the online Zoom session and, perhaps, be inspired to write their own stories or pick up a few writing tips if they are already penning a book,” Cr Lewis said.

He said The Cane was available for borrowing via Libby now and physical copies were also available to reserve.

Cr Lewis said people did not need to have read the book before the video chat between the authors, which was scheduled to begin at 6pm on March 22.

Queensland-born writer Maryrose Cuskelly.

The award winning Livingstone Library.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

FOCUS ON INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

Bridging tech gap A group of City of Cockburn tech savvy youngsters are on-hand to help older members of the community struggling to master the digital technology side of life.

The Western Australian City has embarked on an eight-week trial of Youngster.Co which provides seniors citizens, and even those for whom English is a second language, technical support to operate their small digital devices.

Youngster.Co is a unique intergenerational social enterprise that operates across Australia by linking up young people 16 years and over with the digitally challenged in a model that ensures the youngsters are paid for their time and expertise.

Cockburn was WA’s second local government to sign up to the enterprise. Co-founder Tony Rothacker said several other organisations in the Perth metropolitan area had shown an interest in helping youth gain employment experience by connecting seniors with the free community service.

More than 20 Cockburn youngsters have registered with the social enterprise and in its first week, six young people helped 24 seniors with tasks on their digital devices, including uploading the State Government’s new ServiceWA app to show proof of Covid vaccination.

Of the Cockburn youngsters already registered, some speak Cantonese, Mandarin, Ta-

galog, Punjabi, Afghani, Hindu and Mauritian Creole and are available to further support the City’s diverse community.

The City encourages more young people, and clients in need of their techy know-how, to register at Youngster.Co. Seniors can also book online through Cockburn Libraries for the free 30-minute sessions.

City of Cockburn Library and Cultural Services Adult Services Coordinator Deborah Rigby said feedback from seniors after the program’s first week was very positive, with several relieved to receive help uploading the ServiceWA app to their mobile phones.

“The youngsters were very patient, kind and compassionate in helping the seniors and I’m sure the seniors didn’t hold back in sharing some of their lifelong wisdom too,” Ms Rigby said.

“The City is funding the program and we are really proud we are able to support our community in these interesting times.”

Enterprise Co-founder Tony Rothacker said the program provided job opportunities for youngsters and empowered older people to gain confidence when using technology.

“By bridging the gap between the generations, youngsters share their digital skills and vitality while elders pass on some of their stories and wisdom, and both groups gain a greater appreciation for each other,” Mr Rothacker said.

“The main drivers behind starting this enterprise was the link between youth unemployment and youth suicide.

“Studies show that among the root causes of youth suicide is too much time spent on social media. This program enables young people to make use of their digital technology skills in a meaningful way that enriches their community, and by connecting two vulnerable groups at risk of isolation.”

At the end of each session, Youngsters ask their clients to offer some essential life advice for future reference, and here are some of those pearls of wisdom: Never stop learning Don’t spend your life on computer screens read more books Don’t be afraid to take chances Look for opportunities and work harder than others

· · · ·

Digital technology leads way A small council situated just south of Adelaide, the City of Unley is punching well above its weight by employing digital technology to engage residents in conversation about critical local issues and to adopt new approaches for measuring and maintaining its tree canopy.

According to a council spokesperson, Unley has a proud history of active engagement with its community. In 2014, Unley developed an engagement toolkit based on participation principles which included integrity and mutual respect, transparent information, diversity in community representation, and quality planning and learning.

They said now Unley is taking consultation with its community to a new level. In 2019, CEO Peter Tsokas visited Trikala in Greece to learn about their ‘Smart Cities’ projects.

One was ‘e-Dialogos’, an online deliberation platform for public participation in Trikala’s decision-making processes.

“This approach explored how a city’s Council could bring together a broad set of views on strategic policy, drawn from diverse - and often opposing - community views, in which citizens can participate online, drawing on the significant knowledge and expertise that exists in every modern community,” the spokesperson said.

Unley’s Elected Members were keen to explore engagement based on this model.

Leading consultancy organisation Democracy Co. was contracted to develop and refine the template and build a participant database, presenting a proposed ‘Active Participation Framework’ for feedback. The elected member body decided to name this ‘Shaping Unley’.

This approach, supported by all councillors, is a new concept for Unley and may be a first for any local government area in Australia. It was recommended that a pilot of the Shaping Unley project would enable Council to evaluate the process and assess its value for stakeholders.

The intention is that the process will move people beyond ‘opinion’ to considered

IT Tree Mapping. judgement, enabling better, evidence-based, decision-making. The first step is to create a database of citizens beyond those who normally engage with Council, to reach those in the community who are harder to connect with because they are busy, disenfranchised, or disillusioned with consultation methods.

It’s vital that the database represents a diverse cross-section of the community and includes people across a demographic spectrum with a range of different interests and values. For its part, Council needs to demonstrate this will be a different approach to previous consultations.

So, how does it work? The community is presented with a subject to consider and asked to generate ideas or identify key problems. Often at this point there are diametrically opposing views about the topic. The next stage is to select a panel from the database. This panel works with Council staff or elected members to make sense of the ideas proposed and to guide conversations.

Council then uses this ‘sense-making’ step to outline proposed options for consideration.

Then the community has access to an online tool to register their responses by choosing the options that work for them. Finally, informed by community preferences, Council considers all options tabled in the collaborative process and makes its final decisions.

While this process does not commit Council to implement what the community prefers or decides, it is important that the community’s input is considered if the participation process is to be effective.

It needs to be transparent and clearly different to other consultation processes and be a truly collaborative style of engagement rather than a passive listening experience.

Staff said that the City of Unley has determined that development of a city-wide on-street parking strategy is an ideal pilot project to trial this new form of engagement, as a ‘hot-button’ subject which is often contentious and provokes passionate debate.

After the trial, Council will then decide if this method of active community participation can be used to consult on future initiatives or issues.

The works of emerging artist Rona Mirtle.

Bees in Cocoon The Cocoon Gallery for Emerging Artists at Margaret River Library is now exhibiting the latest works of emerging artist Rona Mirtle.

The exhibition titled Wax, Cloth, Paper is a delight for the senses with artworks that can be enjoyed visually, as well as having a beautiful smell due to the artist’s use of beeswax to create her own paint.

Rona has always been intrigued by insects and the phenomenal part they play in our existence. The astronomical number of insect species that exist and the rate at which they are becoming extinct due to habitat demise has led her to be highly conscious of the materials she works with. She carefully considers the impact that her choice of materials may have on these small creatures in the manufacturing, creative and disposal processes.

All of the textile pieces in the exhibition are created from recycled cloth, which has either come from the artist’s family over the years, op shops, or bits of rag found on the side of the road while walking. Rona believes every scrap of cloth has its own tale to tell and that she creates a new narrative when she repieces them together.

“The process of painting with beeswax is an adventure every time,” she said.

“When you only get five seconds to get the paint on before it dries, it takes you on a journey of many unexpected surprises.”

“I use beeswax from my own beehives, process it, and add pigments to make my own paint, which minimises waste and smells wonderful.”

“Bees visit me while I’m working with encaustic paint which is extra inspiration,” she said.

Rona’s love of working with textiles, printmaking and encaustic painting comes together in this exhibition to celebrate these tiny creatures and their habitat and is on display until 30 April 2022.

Wanneroo secures CCTV security boost The City of Wanneroo and the Western Australia State Government have joined together to bolster the City’s commitment to community safety, deploying three new mobile CCTV poles to enhance security.

The cameras will be used to help combat antisocial behaviour and deter and solve crime in collaboration with local police.

Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said as well as creating a safer environment for residents and visitors, CCTV helped protect and LGFOCUS.COM.AU

preserve City facilities for the benefit of the whole community.

“The safety of our community and the ability for our residents and visitors to enjoy our City’s many sites is of the utmost importance,” Mayor Roberts said.

“A 2020 City trial of portable CCTV technology demonstrated that it is not only a useful deterrent for antisocial behaviour, but that people feel safer knowing incidents can be recorded and pursued.

“We welcome the State Government’s gen-

erous contribution of $100,000 to upgrade our CCTV capability and enhance safety across the City.” The funding was provided through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to support the City and local police in combating antisocial behaviour.

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 19

FOCUS ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Breaking the bias City of Melville Councillor Karen Wheatland was leading a conversation around gender bias to mark International Women’s Day 2022 and encourage others to call out gender discrimination and stereotyping.

In support of the 2022 International Women’s Day campaign theme #BreakTheBias, Councillor Wheatland spoke about her experiences of gender bias in a series of videos that are being shared on the City of Melville’s social media channels throughout March.

The City has a proud history of female leadership, with recently retired Councillor June Barton Mayor from 1989 to 1995 and current Councillor Katy Mair Mayor from 1995 to 2007 Seven of the 13 positions on the City of Melville’s Council are currently filled by women following the 2021 local government elections.

“I was a seafarer in a former life before local government,” said Councillor Wheatland.

“When I first did my training in Tasmania I was the only woman among 40 other trainees and one of the men asked me ‘so, who’s your husband?’

“This stuck with me throughout my whole seagoing career – there was an attitude that women shouldn’t go to sea because they take men’s jobs.

“As a Councillor and the Vice President of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association, our challenge is how do we continue to push and strive to get more women in leadership roles in local government.

City of Melville Councillor Karen Wheatland.

“We need to do this with men because we need to work together to break the bias.”

Mayor George Gear JP said the videos car-

ried an important message.

“The videos are powerful conversation starters and the City’s has a proud history of female leadership,” said Mayor Gear.

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also serving as a call to action for accelerating gender parity.”

The City’s acting CEO Alan Ferris said there direct links between gender bias and violence towards women.

“Addressing gender bias and discrimination is especially important because research has shown a clear link between violence towards women, and attitudes of disrespect and gender inequality,” Mr Ferris explained.

“The City is working on a number of primary prevention initiatives to address violence against women, including the annual appeal for donations to support Zonta House Refuge Association, installation of a Purple Bench as part of the Purple Bench Project, and participating in the State Government 16 Days in WA to Stop Violence Against Women campaign.

“We can all play a role in breaking bias by actively calling out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping whenever we see it.”

Latrobe celebrates women As part of International Women’s Day, Latrobe City Council encouraged the community to join in celebrating the contribution of women across the municipality.

The A million ways to be a woman online campaign celebrates the diverse lives and stories of women living in Latrobe City.

Latrobe City residents have been encouraged to highlight the contribution of women in their community to be featured online via the Latrobe City website and on social media throughout the next month.

“There are over 37,000 women living in Latrobe, and International Women’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate their lives, contributions and achievements. There are a million ways to be a woman, and there are a million ways to be inspired and empowered by women,” said Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan.

“This activity is one of the many ways that

Latrobe City Council is working to support gender equality, supporting our commitment to recognising the right of all people, women, men, and people of self-described gender to be treated equally,” said Cr O’Callaghan.

Community members are encouraged to share their nominations via the Latrobe City Council Facebook page or by emailing communitysafety@latrobe.vic.gov.au.

Strong female role models Three talented and successful local women entrepreneurs took centre stage in Georges River, NSW, on International Women’s Day. Annette Mayne, Founder of The Reconnect Project, Cass Croucher, Co-founder of She Elevates, and Viria Charitos, Founder of MEBEME, shared their personal stories in developing innovative ideas and turning them into successful business models in our diverse and growing local community.

Georges River Mayor Nick Katris said that it was a proud day to showcase entrepreneurial women in the Georges River community.

He shared his own stories of strong women in his life who broke the bias in more challenging times gone by.

“Our Local Government Area is home to more than 16,000 businesses, providing approximately 55,000 jobs, of which 37% are filled by locals and 54% are female,” Mayor Katris said.

Georges River Council General Manager Gail Connolly said, “International Women’s Day is an important reminder, not only for the opposite gender, but for our own gender to support women’s advancement.

“Every woman’s professional journey is going to be different, but what women have in common is their courage.

“It takes a lot for women to juggle between running a family life, a professional life and for some, a business.

“It not only takes talent, but an incredible amount of courage to embrace the challenges.

That is what makes women effective leaders: strong, tenacious, imaginative, brave, and instinctively in touch with every day life.”

20 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

The 2022 Diamonds of Devonport Ambassador Carla-Pizzirani Rand (left) with Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff.

Shining Forty new Diamonds of Devonport were honoured at a celebration held on International Women’s Day in the Paranaple Convention Centre.

Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff congratulated the worthy recipients, acknowledging that the depth of talent and community spirit this year was impressive for the event’s 11th year.

Cr Rockliff said the calibre of recipients was a clear indication that Devonport has some amazing people that do great things for their community and beyond.

“Congratulations to all the 2022 Diamonds of Devonport, how lucky are we to have such community-orientated people in our great city,” Cr Rockliff.

“Looking at the reasons for why these recipients were nominated was truly inspiring and gives us all a little more faith in humanity.

“We know people don’t help others for the recognition, but it’s so important that they realise how vital they are to the ones that are on the receiving end of their kindness.”

This year’s Diamonds of Devonport Ambassador Carla-Pizzirani Rand shared her 38-year journey in business with the attendees at tonight’s event, highlighting the importance of being passionate, having a thirst for education and the need for mentors as the keys to success.

Ms Pizzirani-Rand said being this year’s ambassador was an honour and provided the opportunity for her to see firsthand the amazing examples of how people give back to the community.

“From supporting a local primary school for 20 years as a volunteer, to being a foster carer and supporting survivors of abuse, the care and dedication these women of all ages have given to our community is encouraging,” Ms Pizzirani-Rand said.

“Diamonds of Devonport is a great way for women to be publicly acknowledged for the work that they do and the support that they give, which can often go unnoticed. This event is the perfect way to show these recipients that we see you and we thank you.”

The 2022 Diamonds of Devonport are: Young Achiever: Marlii Stubbs, Emily Aherne, Arabella Gillies, Emma Evison, Emma Johnston, Maddison Knowles and Alexandra Weeks.

Business Achiever: Romina Shrestha, Jodi Williams, Annette Saunders, Carolyn Dutton, Gail McLaren, Kylie Buchwald and Karen Dell.

Personal Achievement: Liza Chapman, Julie Robertson, Christine Brinckman, Annette Wood, Margaret Curran, Alisha Bull, Eleni Roope, Karen Mahsein and Hannah Blackburn.

Community Achievement: Kylie Russell, Debbie Mayne, Susanne Martin, Janet Edmunds, Renee de Bruyn, Lyn Aherne, Judy Lee, Sharon Murray, Lynn Archer, Felicity Duff, Lucy Cochrane, Leanne Purton, Karen Allen, Marjorie Ng, Sally Nielsen and Mandy Glann.

· · ·

Celebrating International Women’s Day. More than 130 community members gathered in Hurstville this morning to hear from three truly inspiring local businesswomen.

Ticket sales of more than $4,000 from Council’s International Women’s Day event will be donated to the women’s crisis accommodation centre in the Georges River area - a place where vulnerable women can find

support and feel safe.

With the breakfast hosted and sponsored by Club Central, attendees experienced first-hand the newly refurbished venue.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet delivered a virtual address at this breakfast, followed by Mayor of Georges River Council, Nick Katris.

·

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

FOCUS ON INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Tech conference finally on Coffs Harbour City Council is organising the long awaited 23rd Local Government Information Technology Conference on Wednesday to Friday 1-3 June at Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour.

After rescheduling the conference three times due to Covid-19 and Government Health Restrictions, this conference promises to be a good one.

Delegates will be afforded the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, obtain information on the latest developments in information technology, and to find best practice solutions.

Representatives of local government, state government agencies and business corporations will be attending the conference from throughout Australia.

The program will offer plenary and concurrent

streams and be made up of Council Case studies and Vendor Presentations around the following subjects: Cybersecurity Trends in Local Government Hybrid Enterprise cloud migration Internet of Things (IOT) Artificial Intelligence \ Machine learning Latest tech trends for the Enterprise.

Covid19- driven future ways of working Imagining LG in a post COVID world How to future proof your LGA Smart city fatigue; what smart technology is actually worth investing in?

This year’s conference will also feature high profile keynote speakers, including Future Crunch, Steven Bradbury, Anders SormanNilsson and Lisa McInnes-Smith.

The program will be available on the web on

· · · · · · · ·

March 14, but head there any time to see our line-up of exciting speakers An extensive trade exhibition and fun networking functions form an integral component of the conference. Don’t miss this opportunity to network with industry suppliers and keep up to date with latest developments in industry products and services.

The organisers would like to thank our gold sponsors: nbn, HPE Aruba and Sophos.

Visit http://www.lgit2022.coffslgconferences.com.au for further information or contact Michelle Aubert from Countrywide Conference and Event Management – michelle@ccem. com.au or 0408 791 492 *Copy supplied by Coffs IT Coffs harbour welcomes over-due conference.

Search-discover solution in 50 councils The iFerret search and discovery solution developed by iPLATINUM is now installed at over 50 councils across Australia and is becoming widely recognised as the defacto standard search facility for Local Government.

The solution is now also being used at a State Government level.

Whilst the focus has been on government departments the solution can add real value to any organisation that has problems accessing and retrieving corporate information.

There are many features that elevate iFerret above other search technologies (as proven in recent evaluations), but the main differentiator for iFerret is the installation approach developed by iPLATINUM. iFerret is installed as an appliance “turn-

key” solution which means there is minimal effort required on behalf of customer staff and the solution can be made operational in months, unlike many tool boxes that often take years to install without ultimately achieving the desired outcomes.

The value proposition developed by many customers is a pretty simple one, iFerret enables any staff member to find any piece of information (security permitting) quickly and efficiently without having to understand the complexity of their corporate systems, office products or network structures.

Some organisations have reported time savings of 2.5 hours per employee per week.

When these numbers are multiplied across the entire workforce the time and cost sav-

ings become very compelling. While in its simplest form iFerret is a wonderful search solution, iPLATINUM has provided customised features to specifically address the requirements of its customers.

This includes the automatic electronic packaging of information for FOI and GIPA purposes, optical character recognition (searching on scanned documents) and reporting to easily identify copies and duplicates. iPLATINUM has developed standard connectors for the commonly used systems whether they be ERP solutions, EDRMS, email, email archives, or the storage of data in network shares and other repositories including those hosted in a cloudenvironment including Office365.

iFerret will be a “must have” for organisations harnessing digital transformation as it will give them the capability to quickly and reliably access and retrieve information across disparate systems in different locations through a single, simple, intuitive interface.

Because it is a web-based application it provides staff with the ability to access corporate data from remote locations.

For more information on improving staff efficiency and reducing administration costs while improving data governance contact iPLATINUM for a no obligation demonstration of the iFerret solution. It is also available under a month trial arrangement with no licence costs.

Local Government IT conference 2022 DATE 1 – 3 June 2022 Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour, NSW

REGISTER NOW – EARLY BIRD AVAILABLE UNTIL 6PM ON 22 APRIL. SEND 2 OR MORE STAFF FROM THE SAME COUNCIL AND RECEIVE A DISCOUNT The program will feature expert speakers from government, the private sector, online organisations, and the computer and communications industries.

Hosted by Coffs Harbour City Council

Keynote Speakers

Steven Bradbury Future Crunch, Anders Sorman-Nilsson and Lisa McInnes-Smith arranged via Claxton Speakers Bureau

www.lgit2022.coffslgconferences.com.au FREE REGISTRATION for the full conference will be offered to accepted presenters who are employed by a council.

Head to the call for papers tab on the website for abstract submission details

For further information please contact Michelle Aubert, Conference Manager, Countrywide Conference and Event Management 0408 791 492

michelle@ccem.com.au

www.lgit2022.coffslgconferences.com.au For COVID 19 related details please check the website

12537756-SG11-22

Limited speaking spots available.

We would like to thank our Gold Partners 12537795-JW10-22

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 21

FOCUS ON RECREATION AND ARTS

Orange televisual history Orange Regional Museum celebrates the 60th anniversary of the first local television broadcast at a special edition of its ORM Talks event series this month.

ORM Talks – Welcome to Television: the 60th anniversary of Channel Eight featured highlights of Channel 8 news, current affairs and sport footage, which was donated as 16mm film by Prime Television in 2021 and digitised by the museum.

Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee chair, Councillor Mel McDonell, said the first full-length television broadcast in Orange happened on 17 March 1962.

“What followed was almost 50 years of local broadcasting from the Channel Eight studios on the Mitchell Highway, which ended in 2010,” Cr McDonell said.

Since then, local TV news production has continued in Orange, but it’s been on a very different scale to the earlier years.

“The television station made such an important contribution to the region, not only by telling the stories of the time, but also with the role it played in the daily lives of local families

watching at home,” Cr McDonell said.

Guest speaker Bronwyn Barnett from the National Film and Sound Archive provided an insight into building and preserving the national television collection for future generations.

She also talked about the beginnings of regional television, its importance to local communities and how technology has given communities more viewing choice whilst diminishing the local station footprint. Guests will also enjoyed a glass of wine, delicious grazing platters and an after-hours viewing of Orange Regional Museum’s exhibition Child’s Play: Growing up in Orange in the 1950s and 1960s.

ORM Talks is an opportunity to enjoy great public lectures on a Friday evening, featuring exciting speakers on a range of fascinating subjects.

Inside Channel Eight.

Silent killer big screen focus The City of Launceston will host a free community screening of documentary film ‘The S Word’ at the Star Theatre this month, as part of the Launceston Suicide Prevention Program.

The screening will also include a Q&A discussion with mental health and suicide prevention specialist John Clark.

Directed by Lisa Klein, The S Word, follows suicide attempt survivor Dese’Rae Stage as she travels across the United States seeking out other suicide attempt survivors. Capturing personal stories and surprising moments of humour, The S Word explores the subject of suicide through the eyes of a diverse range of people.

The film’s tagline is: “The most dangerous word is silence. Speaking the word suicide is not the problem, it’s the silence that so often surrounds it.”

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said he was hopeful Northern Tasmanians would take the opportunity to see the film and participate in the Q&A session.

“Suicide can be a taboo topic for some people and anything we can do to open up new discussions on this critical issue is important,” Mayor van Zetten said.

“We all know someone who has felt the impacts of suicide, and we know that sometimes a conversation is all it takes to save a life.”

Launceston Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator Stephanie Armour said The S Word was a powerful film with an important message.

“This documentary provides a really unique insight into suicide, hearing directly from people who have survived a suicide attempt,” Ms Armour said.

“I hope people will find it compelling and

Hervey Bay Regional Gallery is about to open and the council is hoping to have volunteers in place.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten with the movie poster. that it serves as a reminder that we shouldn’t be silent about suicide.

“It’s important to talk about mental health, to keep connected to the people around us, and to never be afraid to seek out support.

“We’re really grateful to the Star Theatre

for helping us screen the film, and to suicide prevention specialist John Clark for making himself available to answer questions on the night.”

The S Word will screen at the Star Theatre on Wednesday the 23rd of March at 6.30pm.

Wagga’s first Clever exhibition Straight from Australia’s national museum of screen culture in Melbourne, ACMI, (formerly the Australian Centre for the Moving Image), an exhibition exploring the creation of the hit TV series Cleverman has opened at the Museum of the Riverina Historic Council Chambers site.

The exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to see behind the scenes of this popular show, which stormed onto ABC TV in 2016 as a dystopian sci-fi with a difference.

With a predominantly Indigenous cast and senior crew, the series explores a series of Aboriginal origin stories in a contemporary context, with political nuance touching on themes of class, racism and power. The Cleverman exhibition is an immersive experience created in consultation with a multidisciplinary Indigenous Advisory Group, First Nations curator Kathrine Clarke and cocurators, series concept creator Ryan Griffen and production designer Jacob Nash. The exhibition showcases a range of original props, costumes and artwork, alongside interviews with cast and crew.

Museum Manager Luke Grealy said with an 22 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

Gallery reopens at Bay

immersive combination of video, audio and objects, this exhibition not only explores the making of Cleverman, but the origin stories that underpin it.

“It’s exciting to be working with a worldclass organisation like ACMI,” Mr Grealy said.

“Bringing innovative and exciting experiences that explore issues affecting First Nations communities to Wagga Wagga is something that we strive for.”

ACMI Director and CEO Katrina Sedgwick OAM said ACMI has been curating touring exhibitions across Australia for the past decade, celebrating extraordinary Australian screen practice and practitioners. “The ground-breaking series Cleverman presents Dreaming stories in a stunningly designed sci-fi near-future, laced with political themes that ring true to-

day,” Ms Sedgwick said.

“We jumped at the opportunity to collaborate with series creator Ryan Griffen to create an exhibition that takes people behind the scenes to explore the storytelling and superb screen craft that delivered this remarkable Indigenous Australian TV series.”

As the Museum of the Riverina’s first exhibition of 2022, it is the starting point for an exciting year ahead.

“With a range of incredible exhibitions to be hosted throughout the year at the Historic Council Chambers site, the return of the Bald Archy Prize and the redevelopment of the Botanic Gardens site, 2022 is set to be a great year for the Museum of the Riverina,” Mr Grealy said.

The refurbished gallery in the centre of Hervey Bay is scheduled to open in April and new gallery director Ashleigh Whatling is looking for volunteers to ensure visitors have the best experience possible.

“You don’t need to be an artist or have a particular skill,” Ms Whatling said.

“While we’d like to match the skills of volunteers with projects, there are a variety of tasks ranging from being on the front desk and welcoming people to the gallery to helping enter data to bring the information on our collection up to date.

“People with cabinet making or carpenter skills might like to help out with the unboxing and installation of exhibitions; or former teachers might like to help guide school groups through the gallery and run activities at events.

“Whatever your skill we can find a place for you.”

Unfortunately, the group of dedicated volunteers at the gallery dwindled when the gallery was closed for the refurbishment works.

“We’d love to hear from previous volunteers. We have missed them and would love to see them come back,” Ms Whatling said.

A bonus for volunteers is that they get to see the new exhibitions first as they help install the displays, and as they learn about the exhibition to be able to answer questions from visitors.

“Our aim is to have a get together before the refurbished gallery opens in April so the volunteers can meet the gallery team and each other,” she said.

Volunteers help Council on several projects across the region.

Volunteer groups include Community Environment Program, Friend of the Cemetery, Friends of the Brolga, Friends of the Fraser Coast Libraries, Gatakers Artspace and the Maryborough Story Bank.

LGFOCUS.COM.AU

FOCUS ON RECREATION AND ARTS

Accolade for mural South Australia’s first augmented reality mural in Kingston SE, showcasing the town’s natural features, has won a national art tourism award.

‘Wind Dance’ received the Gold Award for the Best External Mural at the 2021 Australian Street Art Awards, announced from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast tonight.

The Kingston SE mural by Sarah Boese, nominated by the Kingston District Council, nudged out ‘2 Kool 4 Skool’, a Lightning Ridge (NSW) mural of six zany emus painted by renowned artist John Murray with the help of the opal mining town’s children, which took out the Silver Award, and Bronze Award winner, a mural painted as a show of strength by two female street artists, Kaff-Eine & Mimmim, for the Darwin Street Art Festival.

The Australian Street Art Awards encourage Australians to explore the world-class street and public art that is safely accessible all year round and found in every corner of the country.

With rigorous judging by tourism leaders from across Australia, plus second-tier auditing and due diligence, Kingston’s win has the credence of the art tourism sector.

The judges said, “This mural is contributing significantly to making Australia a more vibrant, creative and interesting country – somewhere visitors want to explore more keenly”.

Awards Director, Liz Rivers, added “Australia has a long history of creating superlative public art that captivates visitors.

Until these Awards were launched in 2018 though there had never been a way of rewarding and supporting places like Kingston SE that created these art-related experiences for travellers.

The Australian Street Art Awards remedied that shortcoming”. In commenting on the Kingston District Council’s Gold Award win, the judges said that the technology element of bringing marine creatures and the fun of the beach to life captivated their imagination.

Enjoying the mural.

“The fact that this mural was commissioned in the wake of a devastating bushfire and captures the personality of Kingston with themes that acknowledge nature, Aboriginal culture and coastal lifestyle is a winning combination,” the judges said.

“As the first mural to be painted in Kingston SE our minds boggle as to how the town can possibly trump this fantastic blend of innovative technology and stunning visual artistry. We can hardly wait to see what this community creates next,” the judges said.

2021 Gold winners are: Best of the Best: SWELL Sculpture Festival, Gold Coast QLD Best Entrance Art: Gunimidjina Gwala Daraniki, Darwin NT Best External Mural: Wind Dance, Kingston SE SA

· · ·

Best Landmark Sculpture: Accessible Cuttle· fish Throne, Whyalla SA Mega Mural: Dorothea Mackellar Me· Best morial Mural, Gunnedah NSW Monument or Memorial: Vincent Lingiari · Best Memorial Mural, Darwin NT Rural Art: The Horsepower Highway, · Best Gnowangerup WA Sculpture Park or Trail: The Horsepower · Best Highway, Gnowangerup WA Street Art Festival or Event: SWELL · Best Sculpture Festival, Gold Coast QLD Street Art Laneway: Fifth Lane Street Art · Best Mackay, Mackay QLD Street Art Tour: Frankston Street Art · Best Walking Tours, Frankston VIC Street Art Trail: Heesco Town, Yarram · Best VIC

Art trail springs from lockdown Ashmore Arts owner Stewart Guthrie has painted a promising picture of the local creative sector post-pandemic, underpinned by both artists and patrons supporting this year’s Surf Coast Arts Trail.

Artist registrations will opened 16 March for the Surf Coast Arts Trail 10th Anniversary – Take Two! It comes after the 2021 event, which marked a decade of the Trail, was cancelled because of Covid-19 restrictions.

“The Surf Coast Arts Trail is the pulse of the shire’s professional and community artists of all genres,” Mr Guthrie said. “If you’re a local artist, get involved. Register your studio or workspace, and show your talents to the people who will be your biggest supporters.”

Ashmore Arts – featuring 28 artists, 16 studios and four workshops against a stunning Spring Creek valley backdrop – is a must-do destination on the annual trail. The creative hub is eager to welcome people through its doors for this year’s event, to be held 6 and 7 August.

“Ashmore Arts, along with everyone, took

some hits throughout the pandemic. In the creative arts sector, live performance primarily bore the brunt,” Mr Guthrie said.

“I am happy to say that most artists survived and with some savvy efforts, have set a platform to thrive. With favourable state and local government policy, we’re going to see some exciting new initiatives over the next few years, which will give the arts a well-needed boost.”

Surf Coast Arts Trail is an opportunity for Surf Coast artists to showcase their work and to open their studios and creative venues to thousands of visitors – from locals to internationals.

“With about 5000 patrons in 2019, this year’s Trail is sure to be a busy weekend,” said Mr Guthrie, who encouraged locals to attend the event in August.

“Invest in your local artists. Art reflects your

culture, heritage and community. Everyone plays a part and you may just be surprised at the quality, diversity and strength that is already in your backyard.”

Cr Rose Hodge described the Surf Coast Arts Trail as a standout on the arts events calendar.

“It’s a rare opportunity to see first-hand the fabulous, diverse talent our region has to offer. To be able to chat with the artists in their studios and see so many mediums in the one event – pottery to blacksmithing, painting to jewellery, printmaking to woodworking, and much more – it’s incredible,” she said.

“This year will be pivotal in supporting local artists and creatives to recover from the impacts that COVID-19 has had on their business.”

GPAC launch The $42.1 million Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (GPAC) has been officially opened

by Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas and Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan.

Latrobe City rolled out the red carpet in style with a four-day grand opening gala featuring: electronic indie-pop sensation Client Liaison, a comedy night headlined by some of Australia’s favourite comedians, local performances, community workshops and other activities.

Gippslanders and visitors alike now have the chance to explore the state-ofthe-art facility including a 750-seat auditorium, indoor and outdoor amphitheatre event spaces, box office, cafe precinct, conference rooms and much more.

Delivered by Becon Constructions, with a supporting cast of local contractors and tradespeople, the GPAC has all the elements to support productions from major international performances through to local community use according to Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan.

The Gippsland Performing Arts Centre has long been a community aspiration as a priority piece of infrastructure to support the growth of our local arts and creative offerings.

“Beyond bringing the stars of the stage to our doorstep, the new centre is a home for the local creative community and provides a forum for connection, wellbeing and collaboration.”

Latrobe City Director Creative Arts Bec Cole said the inclusion of features such as a fully-fledged fly tower meant the sky was the limit for prospective shows.

“A fly tower allows for a backdrop to come in and out which means we can stage the kinds of productions that need a full scale, full-sized production. It opens up the opportunity for people across Gippsland to see a range of programs a bit closer to home,” Ms Cole said.

GPAC has a range of accessibility features and will incorporate the Latrobe City Visitor Information Centre.

The $42.1 million project was funded by the Federal Government’s Community Development Grants Programme ($10 million), the Victorian Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund ($12 million) and Latrobe City Council.

Suburban wildlife Glen Eira Mayor Cr Jim Magee has officially unveiled Glen Eira’s newest placemaking project — the artwork installation Wild City by artist Hayden Dewar and collaborator Shmek One. Wild City is inspired by the wild life that live in suburban and inner city Melbourne, as well as the term ‘wild style’, which is a term used since the 1980s to describe some street art letter forms.

Cr Magee said the location of the artwork — the rail bridge and tram stop on Glenhuntly Road in Elsternwick (opposite Elsternwick Station) — was identified as a significant community site and ideal for a major placemaking initiative.

“The site is a key public transport hub, with LGFOCUS.COM.AU

a tram-stop directly opposite the station entrance and is utilised by thousands of commuters weekly,” he said.

“Over the years the tram-stop structure and the wall behind it had become tired, worn and a favoured location for graffiti and taggers.

“Our goal was to create a landmark artwork for the Elsternwick community and its visitors, which interacts with its surrounding environment and celebrates the local area’s flora, fauna and urban environment.”

Art installation.

March 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 23

12538080-CG11-22

24 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS March 2022

LGFOCUS.COM.AU