JULY 2022
Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper
Climate frontline Greater cooperation between all tiers of government is needed as the Australia battles the effects of climate change, according to the mayor of one of the worst-hit areas in the country. By Tania Phillips City of Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said there was a global partnership to deal with Climate Change, but our country also needed a national partnership if it was to combat what has been happening. Mayor Greenhill said his city seemed to be on the “frontline” of climate change and was looking at a $400 million bill from this month’s weather event to create future-proof infrastructure that could withstand the current weather patterns - a sum hard to raise for a city that sits on a ridgeline surrounded by World Heritage listed land with no room for industrial precincts and earning just $90 million in rates from a population of 78,000. He said the city had infrastructure built in the ‘20s through to the ‘80s that was never built with this amount of rain in mind. “Two hundred mills a day in the Blue Mountains is unheard of so that infrastructure built so many years ago was never designed to cope with this,” the Mayor said. “The answer is a complete redesign of our infrastructure and that’s why its $400 million. That isn’t just to replace what has been damaged that is to build back better so it doesn’t wash away next summer.” “Building back better is what the money is for – not just repatching roads as they were before or fixing drains, or building land-bridges. “You can never have a population or industry that can sustain high levels of income. We operate off a narrow rates base. The only thing we can do is rely on the support of government. “And I don’t think its just us. There are going to be those councils in flood plains in the same position. Even though they may be wealthier, the simple fact is climate change means the cost of running a city that’s effected by climate change is massively increased. “We’re responsible for a significant percentage of infrastructure in the nation as a sector – local government – but we only draw upon a couple of percent of the money available for infrastructure in terms of the tax base. “So, either that shifts or there has got to be some partnership with the other levels of Government so we can run our cities. “We always talk about partnerships between the levels of Government but this needs to be a very real exploration of that. “That’s what I would be positing. The ratio of funding we take for infrastructure from the national tax dollar compared to the responsibility we have is unsustainable without climate change. When you factor in climate change it becomes even more unsustainable. The fact is that these events are being caused by climate change supercharged by human activity and that means we have to have partnerships. We have a global partnership on this issue but in Australia we need a national partnership.” He said this month’s disaster declaration is almost situation normal in his almost decadelong tenure as mayor. “We’ve had an interesting journey, in the nine years that I’ve been mayor we’ve had the 2013 bushfires where 200 homes were destroyed in two hours, we’ve had multiple wind and storm events, we’ve had the Black Summer Bushfires, we have had two La Nina
City of Blue Mountains faced more damage from this month’s floods and storms.
Mayor Mark Greenhill is calling for more support from all tiers of Government for councils effected by climate change. summers and of course the storm events of this year,” Cr Greenhill explained. “Over those nine years the community has been wracked with natural disasters. We feel the effects of climate change very keenly because our city is up on top of a ridgeline – up to a thousand metres above sea level. Running a long a ridgeline, valley’s on either side, up there exposed to all of the elements. “We feel we are on the front-line of climate change, we feel it very keenly.”
City of Blue Mountains is on the front-line of climate change according to its mayor.
NEWS
EDITORIAL DESK This year continues to be challenging with more councils facing heavy rains and devastating storms in the past few weeks. The damage bill continues to rise across the country – not to just replace infrastructure but to future proof council assets against the effects of climate change. And of course there has been a reminder that although Covid has faded into the background, it is still a major part of our lives with Councils once again facing staff shortages as another wave of the illness spreads. Tasmania has been particularly badly hit in recent weeks – so much so that the regular Mayors Profile column (which was to feature two Tasmanian mayors) will not appear this month. We wish the mayors and council staff in Tasmania and across Australia a speedy recovery.
- Tania Phillips Pylons become storm victims.
INSIDE THIS EDITION PRESIDENT
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GOOD OIL
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METRO-SUBURBAN
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RURAL-REGIONAL
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ALGA
17-19
FINANCES-ASSETS
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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 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 Louisa Kneller Sales Executive E: louisa.kneller@StarNewsGroup.com.au M: 0413 380 545 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/
Low reveals pylons Twelve timber and concrete pylons that were the remains of a pier built on Coogee Beach in the 1920s were dislodged from their sandy moorings as a result of a large swell and high tide caused by the low earlier this month. The east coast low brought heavy rains and flooding also created rough seas and heavy swells that impacted the Randwick coastline, which pushed sand from Coogee Beach onto the boardwalk and uncovered the pylons. Contractors hired by Randwick Council to return the sand to the shoreline found the fallen pylons in the early hours of Friday morning, 8 July, and moved them to the northern end of the beach to ensure safety of beachgoers and prevent the pylons from being washed back
DIARY DATES BUSH COUNCILS CONVENTION 26-28 July Held at the Barcaldine Town Hall, the event will start with an optional workshop and trivia night on the Monday night.
BIODIVERSITY PLANNING AND CLIMATE 28 July This online VLGA/LGiU panel event will include representatives from the UK and Australia.
COASTAL LEADERS FORUM 11-12 August Held at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre, the event provides Mayors and CEOs an opportunity to initiate strategic discussions, identify coast council-specific, priorities, showcase initiatives, network and share information.
into the ocean. The pylons have since been transported to Council’s depot where they will remain while their future is decided. “It is always fun to see the reappearance of the pylons after a heavy storm or intense weather conditions, they are a lovely reminder of Coogee’s past,” said Deputy Mayor Kym Chapple. “They aren’t heritage-listed items but we do understand their local cultural importance and the affection that many residents hold for them as well.
“As a changing climate continues to impact our beaches we need a plan for how to respond to that. In the meantime, we’ll take good care of the pylons as we investigate how we can best acknowledge their unique historical significance.” Heavy storms would often reveal the pylons that remained from the Coogee Pier, which was built in July 1928 and stood until 1934 when it was demolished. They were last seen after a big storm in May 2020.
Focus on resilience Emergency management has never been more prevalent than it is now. Keeping people safe is a top priority with the best scientists, policy makers and frontline leaders set to converge in Adelaide to share the most informed ways to do it. Connecting communities, creating resilience is this year’s theme for AFAC22, the long-standing emergency management conference and exhibition, being held 23-26 August in Adelaide. Over the course of over four days, more than 90 presenters will share best practices and research focused on protecting people, property and communities. Experts will cover an array of topics including evacuation planning; disaster risk reduction; collaborating with multicultural communities in emergency management and the disaster fatigue of community leaders. “Climate change, unprecedented disaster events and the Covid-19 pandemic have made emergency management all the more prevalent
in recent times,” according to AFAC CEO Rob Webb, CEO. “For public safety, it is vital that emergency personnel be ready and equipped to respond swiftly and effectively, and so too do councils. Knowledge and preparation are key.” AFAC22 will run in partnership with the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference and the Institution of Fire Engineers Australia (IFE) National Conference. The Australian Disaster Resilience Conference runs 24-25 August, focusing specifically on contemporary disaster resilience practice and research. For details and to register, go to afacconference.com.au/welcome
COUNCILLOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP 26 August More information to come including location.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT NSW CONFERENCE 23-25 October Registrations for this conference to be held at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, will open on Monday 4 July with early bird rates until Wednesday 17 August.
WA LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONVENTION 3-4 October The Local Government Convention will be held at the Crown in Perth – booking now open. 12557749-HC29-22
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Better disaster planning
Multicultural Blacktown.
Diverse Blacktown National census data has confirmed that Blacktown City is the largest, and one of the most diverse and fastest-growing council areas in New South Wales. The newly-released figures, obtained in the August 2021 Census, reveal that Blacktown City’s population has grown by almost 60,000 residents, from 336,962 in 2016 to 396,776 in 2021, with Department of Infrastructure and Planning estimating that figure to now be in excess of 403,000. This means about 1 in 65 Australians now call Blacktown City home, an increase from 1 in 70 in the 2016 Census, making Blacktown City the largest Local Government Area in New South Wales by population. Interestingly, Blacktown City’s population growth in this five-year-period surpasses the entire size of some Sydney councils. The average number of private dwellings has also surged from 110,800 to 133,887 in five years, up 30 per cent, with the number of families exploding from 85,519 to 104,171. The latest data also paints a picture of Blacktown City’s culturally and ethnically diverse communities, with residents from India comprising the top country of birth after Australia. While just over 50 per cent of Blacktown City’s population identified as being born in Australia, almost 12 per cent were born in India (47,090 people) and 6.4 per cent were born in the Philippines (25,292 people).
The top languages spoken at home in Blacktown City, other than English, included Punjabi, Hindi and Tagalog, with these languages representing almost 53,000 speakers. The number of residents identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander has also grown from 9,523 in 2016 to 11,812 in 2021 - which represents an almost 25 per cent increase in just five years. Demographers have suggested that these figures do not represent an actual increase in numbers but rather reflect a society where people of First Nations heritage are much more comfortable in acknowledging their ancestry. The median age of residents in Blacktown City has also increased slightly, from 33 to 34 years. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said he was proud to lead one of the most diverse councils in one of the most multicultural cities in Australia. “As Mayor, I have always been extremely proud to lead a City as vibrant and multicultural as Blacktown,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “The figures from the 2021 Census show that we are a relatively young City that is a drawcard for families and new migrants. “I was also extremely heartened to see a
growth in residents who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders since the last Census. “Blacktown City is proud of its Darug history and our status as the largest urban Aboriginal population in New South Wales, so it is fantastic to see our Indigenous community represented in this way.” In the 2021 Census, respondents were asked two new questions about long-term health conditions and Australian Defence Force service. About 35 per cent of the Blacktown City population reported living with a long-term health condition, with the most common being Asthma, Diabetes, Arthritis and Mental Health conditions (including depression and anxiety). Close to 93 per cent of the population has never served in the Australian Defence Force, with 570 residents currently serving in regular or reserves forces. Blacktown City’s median household income came in at $2,107 per week, which is above the Australian median of $1,746 per week. Data showed 42.9 per cent of private dwellings were owned with a mortgage, 34.3 per cent were rented and 20.2 per cent were owned outright.
How we can learn from Leeton The NSW country town of Leeton is about as far removed as possible from Afghanistan – geographically, culturally, politically and religiously – but it has set the gold standard for how Australia can successfully integrate refugees into local communities according to a new report. The Riverina township hosted the launch of the report in late June analysing the experiences of some of the 80 Hazara Afghan refugees who settled in Leeton over the past decade. “Learning from Leeton: a case study of refugee settlement in rural Australia” identifies the key steps to ensure a positive experience for both refugees and existing residents – people from worlds apart according to lead author Dr David Radford. University of South Australia sociologist Dr Radford, said Leeton’s embrace and acceptance of refugees is a lesson for all. “Leeton has been welcoming new settlers, refugees and migrants for many years, with the highest proportion of Afghan-born people in rural and regional NSW. It is a community where everyone can belong, regardless of background or heritage,” Dr Radford said. The 84-page report, prepared by researchers from UniSA, Charles Sturt University and Charles Darwin University, explores the reasons why Hazara Afghans have moved to Leeton, their experience, and how the town has successfully integrated the disparate newcomers. “For Hazara refugees, Leeton has become a town that feels like home and a place that has allowed them to ‘find their feet’ in Australia, inLGFOCUS.COM.AU
cluding the ability to learn English, adapt to the culture, form friendships, find work, and even accumulate savings to establish a business,” Dr Radford said. “Leeton has gained equally from the Hazara as they have filled job vacancies, their children have attended local schools and they have contributed to the social, economic and cultural life of the town.” The report identifies the ways in which the mayor, Leeton Shire Council and multicultural support groups provide practical assistance to the new settlers. This includes helping them to find work, accommodation and settling children into school, offering English language lessons, nurturing friendships, and working with police and other local service providers to address the issues that Hazaras face. The local council has also embedded a policy in its strategic plan to successfully integrate the Hazara by adopting a whole-of-community approach. “Not all refugees stay long term,” Dr Radford said. “A lack of tertiary education, employment and business opportunities in Leeton, as well as social and cultural isolation, are some of the reasons they leave for bigger towns and cities after a period. But their first experience of
Australia is a very positive one. The researchers also analysed the challenges for Leeton residents to accommodate migrants from culturally diverse backgrounds, many of whom have experienced major trauma unlike anything to which existing residents can relate to. “Rural communities such as Leeton have strong self-identities and histories and they want to preserve these, regardless of the influx of new migrants, so it’s important the needs of residents are also considered,” he said. “Every community has a variety of opinions and views, and sometimes these are opposing, critical or negative. But Leeton’s community leaders have worked through these concerns to find a compromise. “This report doesn’t claim that Leeton is a perfect refugee-background settlement community, but rather that there are things we can learn from its experience to help other rural communities in their welcome and support.” The report was launched by Professor Peter Shergold AC, NSW Coordinator General for Refugee Resettlement as part of the multimillion dollar State Government regional settlement project called Growing Regions of Welcome (GROW NSW).
Australia’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from, natural disasters will be further enhanced, under plans being recommended to the Governor-General according to the Minister for Emergency Management. Senator the Honourable Murray Watt, has announced the Government’s intention to create a single emergency management, resilience and recovery agency. From 1 July, the National Resilience and Recovery Agency will be relocated to sit within the Home Affairs Portfolio, under machinery of government changes already announced by the Prime Minister. This means the situational awareness, emergency preparedness, crisis management and response functions of Emergency Management Australia, which already sits in the Department of Home Affairs, will be joined in the Portfolio by the recovery and resilience functions of the National Recovery and Resilience Agency (NRRA). Further, Minister Watt will recommend to the Governor-General that, from 1 September, the NRRA and EMA should merge to form a new organisation, called the National Emergency Management, Resilience and Recovery Agency (NEMRRA), which will combine the efforts of both agencies. “Combining all these disaster related functions into one agency under the Home Affairs Portfolio is a significant step forward and strengthens Australia’s ability to prepare for, manage and recover from an increasing number and severity of disasters,” Minister Watt said. “Due to the effects of climate change, Australia will face more major natural disasters in the future, and we have to prepare and adapt now to ensure that as a nation we’re in the best position to deal with the that inevitability.” Natural disasters currently cost the Australian economy $38 billion per year on average, and human-made hazards have comparable whole of economy costs, with the estimated cost of natural disasters in Australia to reach at least $73 billion per year by 2060 under a low emissions scenario, and $94 billion under a high emissions trajectory. “I am confident that these structural changes will assist in delivering the Albanese Government’s commitment to ensure that Australia is better prepared for the natural disasters we know will come.” One consequence of these recommended changes is that, from September 1, the Office of the Coordinator-General of the NRRA will cease to exist. The Coordinator-General, the Hon Shane Stone AC QC will take leave from today, before ceasing his employment with the NRRA on 31 August. I would like to thank Mr Stone for his service, in establishing and leading the NRRA since its inception. The Chief Operating Officer for the Department of Home Affairs, Ms Justine Saunders APM, will serve as the Acting Coordinator-General of the NRRA until the establishment of the proposed new agency. July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 3
PRESIDENT’S COMMENT - LGASA PRESIDENT MAYOR ANGELA EVANS
More diversity in councils welcomed Diversity unlocks innovation. A simple statement, yet one that has been researched and applied by entrepreneurs in business and leading corporations. In the private sector, diversity can drive growth, profits, and a competitive edge. In local government, that same diversity not only brings forward new ideas but supports and shapes strong and vibrant communities. With the democratic process working overtime in SA across state, federal and council elections, this is an important time for our councils to be reflective of the communities they serve. And that means encouraging people to run for council who are traditionally under-represented. What constitutes an under-represented group differs for different councils, but generally includes young people, women, those from different cultural backgrounds, First Nations communities, and people with disability. At the 2018 council elections, this approach achieved a significant increase in the representation of women. The number of women councillors increased from 29 per cent to 35 per cent and, in a truly outstanding result, the number of women Mayors more than doubled – from 9 to 22. These results show that by raising awareness of the valuable work councils do, and supporting new entrants with information and advice, we can achieve change and progress for our sector. The need to encourage and support those thinking of running for council is even more important than ever in 2022, with challenges of voter fatigue and participation and difficulty of
our economic conditions. In the economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and with accelerating cost of living pressures, governments at all levels are determined to support communities during these challenging times while balancing priorities to reduce debt. While we continue to advocate for a fair funding contribution from state and federal governments for essential council services, it is likely our sector will face some belt- tightening. This leaves councils in the unenviable position of what to do about the rising costs of the programs and services they provide. The options include increasing rates, which increases pressure on communities, spreading the burden over future years by increasing borrowings, or cancelling or deferring projects. These options are further complicated by each council’s unique local circumstances, which may include balancing the needs of residents with commerce and industry, high growth requiring new infrastructure and services or a decreasing population and further shrinking of council’s revenue base. While there are pros and cons for all the available options, what is important to remember is that each option will impact not only the
current community but also future generations. While freezing rates may be popular now, increasing debt has consequences for the future and cancelling or deferring projects could mean communities miss out on works to support good planning and liveability. Council decisions impact all community members. That’s why it’s so important for council members to be truly representative of their communities, so all views and interests are considered. In the lead up to this year’s council elections, LGASA will continue to highlight the valuable work of councils – and council members – encouraging involvement by under-represented groups. By making the process of running for council open and transparent – and valuing each candidate’s potential contribution – we can achieve more representative councils to support decisions that are best for everyone. And that’s why we’re encouraging community members who live local, to lead local. LGASA President Mayor Angela Evans Find out more about running for council visit councilelections.sa.gov.au
Cut back Bathurst Council will pursue talks with the NSW Government following a court ruling in their case against the Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR). The Supreme Court handed down a decision in a court case regarding the environmental release conditions for Winburndale Dam in late June. The Council has now sought an interpretation by the court on matters associated with Council’s water licence for Winburndale Dam, in particular the amount of water available for community use while balancing the environmental needs of downstream users. General Manager David Sherley said Council is extremely concerned with the outcome of the court case. “Winburndale Dam is a key part of our town water supply and we are currently investing more than $16 million in dam wall strengthening works. Under our water licence condition, the secure yield from Winburndale Dam is 1033 megalitres; under the judgement that is reduced to 28 megalitres. “Winburndale Dam has played a key role in our water supply network for almost 100 years. In the most recent drought, these changes would mean that one-fifth of the water used by our community would no longer be available. “Council will continue to make representations regarding these outcomes which risk this community losing a principal town water supply asset.”
APRIL 2022
Australia’s National Loc
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4 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
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Value adding on-shore The pressure’s on for energy companies. The fundamental challenge for Australia in coming decades is to value-add our energy and mineral resources. A world leader at the mining stage, we are dismal in converting this advantage to manufactures. The basic reason is that over the last two decades we’ve been duped into believing that value-adding our resources is the province of low-wage nations, and we’ve caved into the mining sector’s influence. There are countless lobbyists in Canberra whose job is to facilitate the export of huge volumes of coal, iron ore, gas and non-ferrous metals. It’s a largely laissez-faire environment where tax minimisation is rife. Well the game is up guys. The trigger is the immense pain currently being suffered by households and companies dependent on gas. The grannies huddled in blankets are shifting public opinion in a way that the manufacturers never could. The Carpenter legacy There is now a political imperative to get cheaper energy supplies into both households and the manufacturing sector. And the name on policymakers’ lips is Alan Carpenter, the WA Premier who in 2007 ordered the big LNG producers to quarantine 15% of their production for the WA market. They screamed blue murder, but Carpenter held tight. His successor, Colin Barnett, also copped flak but he continued the policy, which remains to this day. Fast forward and the feds and the states are seriously discussing the roll-out of a national domestic gas quarantine system before next winter. And the quiet word around Canberra is that federal and state Treasuries are also thinking about steeper mining taxes. The trigger has been the OECD multinational tax avoidance convention signed by 135 nations signed last year. It involves a minimum 15% tax floor. The Treasuries are responding to the need to rein in our huge national debt, and the rise of the Greens and the Teal Independents who
THE GOOD OIL ROD BROWN
will happily join forces to stick it to non-renewable energy producers. There are cogent precedents such as 78% tax on oil producers (and the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund) as well as Qatar which reportedly earned $23 billion from gas royalties last year. In this context, the Minerals Resources Rent Tax (MRRT), as recommended a decade ago by Ken Henry (ex-Treasury head), is back in policymakers’ consciousness. However the bad news is that Albanese made an election promise of no new taxes, which means that a new mining tax regime will need to await a second term for the Albanese Government. The good news is that there is an awakening of the need for mining tax reform. Metals sector Just as energy producers have been able to operate in a largely unfettered environment, so have the metals producers. And if we’re serious about value-adding, we must find ways to enable our local manufacturers to access competitively-priced metals. There is a story here, which goes to the heart of the problem. Alumimium diecasting The story begins in the mid-1980s when Australian manufacturing was beginning to feel the heat of import competition. Our local car man-
ufacturers were awash with red ink and their suppliers – of glass, rubber, steel sheeting, engine parts, batteries – were desperately trying to find new markets. My responsibilities in the federal Department of Industry at the time were non-ferrous metals – aluminium, lead, zinc, copper, tin, new materials and everything downstream of them. Australia once had a proud international reputation in these fields. The aluminium diecasters came to my Department with major concerns about their falling sales. There were about 120 companies – mainly around Sydney’s inner west, and the industrial belts of Melbourne and Adelaide. They sought our help in persuading the aluminium ingot producers and scrap merchants to lower their price to them - the rationale was that it was Australia’s aluminium industry was one of the biggest and most profitable in the world (by virtue of our bauxite reserves) and it was only fair that diecasters should also enjoy some advantage. One of my staff began to track domestic and world aluminium prices, and he found that they moved in synch, with occasional drops in the domestic price to prevent local diecasters thinking about shifting to overseas sources. I took the matter up with my colleagues at Comalco and Alcoa, the main local aluminium producers at the time. They gave me chapter and verse why this was the normal order of things. They argued that for them to offer cost savings to local downstream users would adversely impact on their bottom lines. I was informed that the issue was discussed in the boardrooms of those companies, but the big guys wouldn’t budge. Alcoa’s Portland smelter My sympathy for the diecasters grew when word got out that Alcoa had been in secret talks with the federal and Victorian governments to
transport electricity from the Latrobe Valley (eastern Victoria) to a new aluminium smelter proposed for Portland (western Victoria) – a distance of 500 km. The plot thickened when I realised that Portland was in federal seat of Wannon held by PM Malcolm Fraser. My Department was never consulted – if it had been, we’d have surely suggested Westernport Bay. Anyway, Victorian taxpayers picked up the tab for the transmission lines, which ran into hundreds of million dollars. And the subsidies continued – I’m reliably informed that a $240 million subsidy package for the Portland smelter expired last year, only to be replaced with another subsidy package of $160 million. Alcoa’s Portland smelter must be the dumbest regional investment decision in Australian history. The moral of the story? Multinational mining companies have lobbying expertise and the ability to spin promises of regional jobs. Conversely, our local metal manufacturers are geographically fragmented and not geared to lobbying. Next month I’ll suggest some strategies for local councils to help them recover lost ground. Hobart’s new stadium? On a different subject, AFL supremo Gil McLachlan recently stated that Tasmania’s bid for an AFL licence is contingent on a new Hobart stadium costing a minimum $750 million. In response the Tasmanian Government has pledged $150 million, and McLachlan has intimated that it’s now over to the feds to bridge the gap. I’ve got advice for Gil. The days of federal largesse in respect of sports stadiums are over. The MCG Southern Stand upgrade ($465m) fifteen years ago was largely paid for by the members and the Victorian government. That is the model.
One year on disaster recovery continues More than 7,000 tonnes of storm-thrown timber was processed into firewood in the monster storm that hit the Hepburn Shire Council in June 2021. The council acknowledged the milestone as they continued to recover mentally and physically from the storms that affected many people and properties across our Shire. Mayor, Cr Tim Drylie, said the year anniversary was a very difficult time for some members of our community encouraging them to continue to reach out to the storm recovery team by calling on 43737373.. “There has been an extraordinary amount of work undertaken since the storm, beginning with the enormous task of clearing fallen trees from roads,” said Cr Drylie. “Storm-thrown timber was processed locally and distributed within the Shire, including 7,000 tonnes of firewood distributed to the community via our three transfer stations and community groups (for fundraising or donating to vulnerable community members). “Much of the firewood came from twisted timber that was of no practical value beyond firewood, however, salvageable timber was transported to the processing site at Romsey in the Macedon Ranges and turned into fence posts, which have been returned to Hepburn Shire and distributed to farmers and rural storm-affected landholders.” The rare pieces of the highest value timbers were sent to the Creswick Timber Training Centre for training purposes and milling. The mulch by-product was distributed locally for free and totalled around 25,000 cubic metres. “The processing site was extremely busy and closed at the end of 2021,” he said. “Habitat protection had been ensured and the site has been rehabilitated, with no sign of the frantic activity that had preceded. Council has worked closely with Bushfire Recovery Victoria to facilitate public and private property clean-up, and with partner agencies to LGFOCUS.COM.AU
The firewood.
Mayor Tim Drylie.
The damage.
The aftermath.
address financial, psychological and practical recovery, including ongoing one-on-one support for some severely affected residents.” Towards the end of this winter, Council will work with the Creswick Timber Training Cen-
tre to offer free chainsaw classes in the hope that participants can learn new skills, and by joining a community group, utilise those skills within a supportive team. Participants can then clean up their own properties and assist
others to do the same. As a measure to encourage wildlife back into the forest, a successful habitat program has seen nest boxes and native trees distributed within the community. July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 5
NEWS
CEO heading east City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley has accepted the resignation of CEO Mike Archer who will be taking on the role of CEO for Shellharbour City Council in NSW. Wishing Mr Archer well, Mayor Henley thanked him for his almost 12 years of dedicated service and his invaluable leadership during a period of significant growth and development for the community and the organisation. “Mike has successfully led the organisation over many years, working collaboratively with Council, community, and staff to deliver the infrastructure necessary to support our growing community, and overseeing the transition from a Shire to a prosperous regional City Council. He has also delivered on Council’s vision of being the Events Capital of WA, supporting a robust tourism industry and economy. More recently he has led the City through the many unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating his leadership.” “Mike’s passion, energy and enthusiasm for local government, and his commitment to ensuring the City of Busselton is a great place to live, to visit and to invest in has been remarkable. We thank him for all that he has achieved and congratulate him as he takes on an exciting new role.” Mr Archer started as CEO in August 2010 and has overseen a period of extensive capital growth aimed at meeting the needs of current and future residents. Key achievements include redevelopment and activation of the Busselton foreshore, development of the Dunsborough and Yallingup foreshores, expansion of the Busselton Margaret River Regional Airport to accommodate expanded FIFO services and regular passenger
CEO Mike Archer flights to and from Melbourne, redevelopment of the City Administration Centre, the upgrading of numerous sporting facilities and development of an industry recognised Sport and Recreation Facilities Strategy to guide future planning, progression of a performing arts and convention centre to construction, and significant upgrades to the City’s road network including improving the standard of rural roads. Mayor Henley said that over the last 12 years the municipality has grown from some 27,000 people to just over 40,000, and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in the state. “Mike has been instrumental in the development of robust asset management and long term financial planning to support this growth, with the Council well positioned as it looks to
the future,” the mayor said. Mr Archer thanked Mayor Henley and the Council for the opportunity to lead the organisation through such a transformative and exciting period, and for the Council’s commitment to a vision which has seen the City of Busselton continue to grow and prosper. “It has been my absolute pleasure to serve the City of Busselton community and its successive Councils, and I am very proud of our collective achievements. The City of Busselton has a very engaged community and I have enjoyed working with many wonderful community groups to achieve positive outcomes. In particular seeing families, locals and visitors alike, enjoying the City’s foreshores brings me great joy, seeing the dream of regular passenger flights to Melbourne become a reality, after the hard work of many people, is something I will cherish. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the City and, after nearly 12 years of service, feel now is the right time to move on to new challenges. The City of Busselton is in a strong financial position, with an asset portfolio of over one billion dollars and significant cash backed reserves, which I am extremely proud of. “I would like to recognise the staff of the City of Busselton who commit themselves every day to the delivery of high quality services to the community. I am extremely grateful to have worked alongside so many dedicated and professional people over my time with the City and could not have achieved anything without the support of the senior management team and all of the dedicated Council staff.”
Geelong chief to step down City of Greater Geelong Chief Executive Officer Martin Cutter has announced he will step down from his role at the end of September 2022. Martin started as the City’s CEO on 4 June 2018 following a successful executive career across the public and private sectors, including over 18 years in Local Government. Under Martin’s leadership, the City has undergone a significant positive transformation and has delivered a range of community and business initiatives to support our region throughout the pandemic and during this current period of unprecedented population growth and economic development. “I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved at the City over the past four years and my role, while complex, has been incredibly rewarding,” Martin said. “I’d like to thank and acknowledge the Councillor group, the executive leadership team, the employees and volunteers who have continually demonstrated their passion and commitment to the organisation and the community.
“I’d like to recognise the support and leadership I have received from those who have led the Council during my time as CEO, including Cr Bruce Harwood, Cr Stephanie Asher, Cr Trent Sullivan and Cr Peter Murrihy. “I feel that now is the right time for both the organisation and for me personally to step down. I’m now in a time in my life where I can turn to focus on personal pursuits. “I’m looking forward to spending time with my wife Fiona, our two dogs and our two boys, who are both based overseas.” Mayor Peter Murrihy paid tribute to his work over the past four years. “I’d like to thank Martin for his leadership and for his dedication to making the City a great place to live, work and invest,” the Mayor said. “Martin is a respected leader and it has been a pleasure to work closely with him over the past four years due to his straightforward
nature, ability to form positive working relationships and his clear communication style. “It is fitting that Martin will welcome the organisation into our new building, Wurriki Nyal, before he ends his time at the City. “Under Martin’s leadership and together with this Council, we were able to establish a civic precinct that not only transitions seven workplaces into one but also contributes to the revitalisation of central Geelong. “Martin has set a clear direction for the organisation and has established a strong leadership team to support its next leader. I appreciate Martin’s extended notice to ensure we can undertake a smooth transition process. “An executive search will begin shortly to select a new CEO. A decision will be made by Council on the outcome of this process in the coming months.”
Dinny Adem.
Dinny Adem elected Dinny Adem was was elected to Greater Shepparton City Council in a countback, following the resignation of Councillor Rob Priestly last month. The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) conducted the countback of the votes from the October 2020 Council Election to determine who the incoming Councillor would be. Mr Adem brings a wealth of experience having previously served as Mayor in 2016 and 2017, and Deputy Mayor in 2020 before retiring from Council. Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali congratulated Mr Adem on his appointment, saying he looked forward to working alongside him in his new position as Councillor. “On behalf of Council, I welcome Dinny to the team and look forward to working with him to achieve strong outcomes for our community,” he said.
Four more years for Launceston’s Stretton City of Launceston chief executive officer Michael Stretton has been reappointed for a further four years. Launceston acting Mayor Danny Gibson said Councillors had unanimously supported the reappointment of Mr Stretton at a closed council meeting late last week. “Michael has proven himself to be an exceptional leader and Council has unanimously supported the extension to his contract,” Councillor Gibson said. Mr Stretton was appointed as general manager to the City of Launceston in October 2017. He began his career in local government in 1995 with the Sorell Council, followed by a fiveyear stint at the Glenorchy Council, followed by nine years at Central Coast before moving to Launceston in 2012 as Director Development Services. Then in 2014, he relocated to the NorthWest Coast, taking up the role of general manager at Waratah-Wynyard Council before returning to Launceston three years later. 6 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
City of Launceston chief executive officer Michael Stretton. Councillor Gibson said he was pleased to announce the reappointment of Mr Stretton, describing him as an accomplished leader who had overseen significant positive change in the organisation over the past four-and-a-half years. “Under this guidance, the Council has flourished as an organisation and our workforce
has continued to deliver high quality services for our community. “Michael has also proven his ability to foster strong and meaningful relationships with a number of stakeholders across our community, particularly the leaders of our neighbouring councils, which is vitally important in that role.” Mr Stretton said he was delighted to be reappointed for another four years and he was extremely proud to lead such a high-performing organisation. “Given the turbulence we’ve all experienced over the past two years with COVID, it has certainly been a rollercoaster ride as CEO of the largest Council in the state,” Mr Stretton said. “That said, I was particularly proud of the way the Council was able to react to the impacts of the pandemic with the delivery of what was the largest local government response in Tasmania with the $10 million COVID recovery package. “Launceston is a great Council to
work for and a really enjoyable place to live. There are many reasons to be extremely positive and excited about Launceston’s future, whether that’s rolling out our Sustainability Strategy plans, or continuing our relationships with all tiers of government through the Launceston City Deal or focusing on housing, urban growth and transport. “It’s incredibly important that the Council can balance and promote the continued growth of the city, while maintaining a strong financial basis that does not impose significantly on the ratepayers. However, through the work we’ve done with our strategic plans, such as the Long Term Finance Plan, there’s no doubt that the City of Launceston is well placed in all of those respects.” The extension means Mr Stretton is contracted in the role until 2026. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
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July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 7
NEWS
New Mornington director Mornington Peninsula Shire has appointed Samantha Stanton as the new Director – Corporate Strategy and Business Improvement. CEO John Baker said Samantha has more than two decades of leadership experience gained within diverse settings focused on creating sustainable public value. “I am delighted to be welcoming Sam to the Shire.” “The selection panel was impressed with her deep understanding of and passion for lo-
cal government and her vision on how to create public value and positive impact,” he said. “We believe her strategic, energetic and purposeful leadership qualities will be a great fit for our organisation and a valuable asset to the executive team.” Most recently she has held a number of senior positions at Knox City Council including
interim director responsibilities for Transformation and Technology, Executive Manager Strategy, People and Culture, and Manager People Performance. In this capacity she has led strategy development, transformation and change, people and culture, information technology, corporate planning and reporting, community engagement, organisation performance, business intelligence, risk management, business conti-
Smooth transition expected The City of Tea Tree Gully is expecting a smooth transition when Ryan McMahon steps in as its new CEO on 3 September, following the retirement of current CEO John Moyle. An experienced executive, Ryan has worked closely with the council’s current CEO since 2011 and has served as acting CEO on many occasions. Deputy Mayor Lucas Jones says Ryan will build on John’s legacy. “Ryan has a passion for fostering strong and resilient communities and will use his strategic thinking and financial management experience to progress our City,” he said. Ryan says he’s excited by the opportunity to serve as CEO. “I look forward to working with the Elected Members, Council staff and the community as we continue to provide first-class service and value for rates. “I want to continue to expand on the unique qualities that make our City such a great place,” he said. “It’s a privilege to follow on from such an experienced leader. John has brought stability and leadership to the City of Tea Tree Gully. He has overseen major projects that will have a lasting positive impact, such as the revitalisation of Modbury,” he said. Deputy Mayor Jones also paid tribute to current CEO John Moyle. “John is not only a person of integrity and experience, he’s passionate about our City, good governance and improving the workplace. We wish him all the best with his future plans.”
Current CEO John Moyle with incoming CEO Ryan McMahon. The decision in May 2022 to appoint Ryan followed a national recruitment process for the role.
The City of Tea Tree Gully is located in the north-eastern suburbs of Adelaide. It has a population of more than 100,000 people.
The City of Busselton’s partnership with Rio Tinto continues to go from strength to strength, with Rio Tinto doubling its contribution to the Youth program from $40,000 to $80,000 per annum.
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New CEO for Law Council The Law Council of Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr James Popple as its new chief executive officer.
Partnership benefits youth This will provide a welcome boost for youthfocused activities and events. City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley said the additional funding will also enable the City to expand learning and employment opportunities and provide a more consistent voice for local youth through enhanced engagement. “This additional $40,000 per annum from Rio Tinto provides an opportunity to consolidate services to the fast-growing areas of Dunsborough and Vasse,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see Rio Tinto so committed to our local community, particularly when it comes to our youth. “The City of Busselton and Rio Tinto are proudly working together to support our local youth, provide opportunities for them to thrive and contribute to a shared future. Let’s face it, our youth are our future!” Three new initiatives will be implemented over and above what is currently delivered by the City’s Youth Services team: Youth Voice - encourages and facilitates an increased youth voice within the community. Thriving Communities - a program of structured activities that promotes and improves youth wellbeing with an emphasis on mental health. Creating opportunities - enhancing learning and upskilling opportunities for local youth. Rio Tinto has been partnering with the City to provide Youth Services since 2014.
nuity, and the council’s pandemic response. She has gained significant local government experience working with both metropolitan and regional councils including City of Greater Bendigo, City of Melbourne, Banyule City Council and Manningham City Council. Samantha will take up her new position in mid-August.
From left, City of Busselton Youth Services Development Supervisor Angela Griffin; Rio Tinto Community Relations Advisor – South West, Meredith Dixon; Youth Development Trainee Edan Cristinelli and Work Experience Student Grace Murray. Along with funding for annual activities and events, the partnership has supported the employment of a succession of Youth Develop-
ment Trainees and more recently the expansion of youth services for 10 – 15 year olds in the Dunsborough – Vasse area.
Dr Popple served as the Official Secretary to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. He was also the inaugural Freedom of Information Commissioner, a Senior Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and a member of the ACT Remuneration Tribunal. Prior to that, Dr Popple worked for 12 years in the Australian Attorney-General’s Department and in the High Court of Australia, as a judge’s associate and later Deputy Registrar. Dr Popple has degrees in law and arts and is admitted as a barrister and a solicitor. He is also a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Law and an Honorary Professor of the Australian National University (in the College of Law and the College of Engineering and Computer Science), where he conducted his doctoral research in artificial intelligence and law. “The Law Council undertook an extensive recruitment process to find its new CEO and we are delighted that someone of Dr Popple’s calibre and experience is joining us,” Law Council of Australia President, Mr Tass Liveris said. “Throughout his career, Dr Popple has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring access to justice for all and we look forward to him continuing to make a significant contribution to the Law Council’s efforts to uphold the rule of law, advance the public good and champion the Australian legal profession.” Dr Popple will begin his new role at the Law Council on 25 July 2022. “I look forward to being able to support the Law Council in its work advocating on major issues that impact all Australians, in particular for the improvement of the law and the administration of justice,” Dr Popple said. The Law Council of Australia thanks Deputy CEO, Margery Nicoll for stepping into the Acting CEO role while the hunt for a permanent Chief Executive Officer was underway. “I am very grateful to Margery for her generosity and support during the period of interim CEO arrangements,” Mr Liveris said. “Margery has been an exemplary Acting CEO and I know the staff, Executive and board appreciated the stability LGFOCUS.COM.AU
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Dynamic future outlined The City of Launceston has outlined a dynamic new future for Launceston’s Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery with the unanimous endorsement of a new future directions plan at recent council meeting. The QVMAG Future Directions Plan contains a roadmap to a new governance structure, a sustainable funding model, and improved activation outcomes, as well as infrastructure overhauls of both Royal Park and Inveresk sites. The new governance model is known as a ‘company limited by guarantee’, allowing the Council to retain ownership of the museum buildings and collection.
A new skills-based board will also be established to oversee all operational activities. This structure will allow the QVMAG to be registered and endorsed as a recognised charity and to seek out funding opportunities to supplement its operational activities. The plan also outlines five potential future funding models, as opposed to the current model which sees the majority of funding met by Launceston ratepayers, with around 20 per
cent currently coming from the State Government. Mayor van Zetten said the Council believed the State Government needed to increase its share of funding to better reflect the museum’s role as a state-level institution and to provide more equity for Launceston ratepayers. “The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is one of Launceston’s most treasured
Connect to meaningful work It will take a holistic approach between government and business to attract, develop and retain the skilled local workforce Ipswich City needs to capture massive opportunities on the horizon according to a council spokesperson. Economic and Industry Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Nicole Jonic said a focus in the Ipswich City Council 2022-2023 Budget would be collaborative initiatives to connect people to local, meaningful work, with nearly $100,000 towards skills development and investment attraction. “We are expecting rapid growth in key industries such as transport, logistics and warehousing, manufacturing, health and community services and hospitality in coming years,” Cr Jonic said. “There are so many opportunities on the horizon, but as it stands now fewer than 50 per cent of working-age Ipswich residents are employed locally. “When you look at our key industries, those numbers are even lower. “We are a young city with a lot of potential for the future, and we have work to do in reducing youth unemployment and creating the skilled workforce to build a thriving local economy. “Council is committed to creating economic opportunities that attract more Ipswich residents to work closer to home, and ensure Ipswich is a city that provides opportunity for all. “The 2022-2023 Budget for economic and community development commits to initiatives that will work towards solving these issues and complement other government and non-government activities in this space.” Councillor Jonic said one of the initiatives would be a Community Services Summit, working with key government agencies to understand the job opportunities and skill requirements in one of the region’s fastest growing industries. “Council will also use our connections with community, at a grassroots level, to increase visibility of talent and opportunities and work to solve system issues that might be hindering employment opportunities,” Cr Jonic said. “We will also collaborate with all levels of government and the new Workforce Australia (previously Jobactive) to better connect jobseekers with jobs, and where necessary provide skills development programs.
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Push for net-zero by 2030 The Waratah-Wynyard Council has set an ambitious target of achieving net zero corporate carbon emissions by 2030.
Small business initiatives are among the budget initiatives for Ipswich. “These programs will make inroads to lowering the youth unemployment rate, while also increasing local employment opportunities for all Ipswich residents.” Councillor Jonic said $115,000 had been committed to supporting the 10,260 local registered businesses in the 2022-2023 Budget. “This will include a continued partnership with the region’s chambers of commerce to build business management and growth skills and connect local business owners,” Cr Jonic said. “Small Business Friendly Council initiatives will continue to streamline all customer interactions with council so operators can focus more time on starting, running and growing their businesses.” Councillor Jonic said the ongoing Ipswich Central Revitalisation project had already proven benefits to not only the businesses in the
precinct but was playing a role in restoring investor confidence across the city and driving economic development across the region. “Already 23 new businesses have opened in Ipswich Central in the past six months in response to the revitalisation efforts and we expect those trends to continue,” Cr Jonic said. Economic Development highlights of the 2022-2023 Budget: Skilling Ipswich - $60,000 Small Business initiatives, including Small Business Friendly Council, capability workshops and programs, chambers of commerce partnership - $115,000 Investment attraction initiatives - $36,000 Creative industries development and attraction, including Ipswich Art Awards and Creators of Ipswich summit - $90,000
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Redlands stalwart honoured Redlands Coast Senior Citizen of the Year Beryl Sutcliffe has added to her trophy cabinet again receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. Mayor Karen Williams said is well-known for her service to the community. “Beryl is one of 51 Queenslanders who were awarded an OAM in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours, and I congratulate her on receiving this Honour for her well-known commitment to the community,” Cr Williams said. “I’m delighted she’s been recognised for her hard work and dedication undertaking volunteering work for groups, including the Country Women’s Association in Peachester and Westmar before moving to Redlands, plus Rotary Club of Capalaba, North Redlands Probus Club and University of the Third Age (U3A) Redlands over many years. “Beryl has generously provided a huge amount of time and effort supporting these
and important cultural institutions,” Mayor van Zetten said. “This ambitious Future Directions Plan aims to set the institution on a pathway to an exciting, sustainable and secure future. “For 130 years the QVMAG has been exploring, cataloguing and celebrating the rich cultural fabric of our city, region and State. “QVMAG can look back on a very proud past, but it’s most exciting years are yet to come.”
groups,and has also been acknowledged by Sister Moira and the Carmelite community for the tours and special events she organises to support Historic Ormiston House. “People like Beryl are an inspiration to us all.” Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop also thanked Beryl for her extraordinary community service, saying her care and concern for the welfare of others had helped many senior residents overcome social isolation. “Beryl’s work has helped the groups for which she volunteers provide education, engagement and important social connections for members, positively affecting their mental health and wellbeing,” he said. “Her contribution to our city is greatly appreciated. “Both Beryl and her husband Col provide the wind beneath many wings within our community.
“We are delighted with this news.” Beryl said receiving the honour was exciting and although it was great to be acknowledged, she didn’t do it for the accolades. “I feel it’s something a lot of people deserve, but don’t get the opportunity to be recognised,” she said. “My mother was a role model – she did a lot of things for the community, and I believe getting involved broadens your mind and keeps your body active. “My husband and I moved around the State a lot when we were younger because of our work, and getting involved in community groups was a great way to get to know people and create that community connection. “I think my most interesting and challenging volunteer role to date has been as a local committee member with U3A – it’s really made me appreciate how much work goes into providing activities for seniors.”
This target follows Council’s adoption of its Integrated Council Environmental Plan (iCEP) in 2020 and commissioning a carbon footprint audit this year. Based on an independent audit, Waratah-Wynyard Council’s operations produced 1,971 tonnes of carbon during the 2020/21 financial year: The equivalent emissions intensity of 142kg of carbon per person within Waratah-Wynyard. The largest source of emissions is from Council’s value chain, including contractors fuel usage and construction materials and services.The second largest source, at just under a third of the total emissions produced, are from council facilities and vehicles. “It is crucial that our carbon footprint is reduced as quickly as possible. Failing to keep climate change to below 1.5 degrees will have significant catastrophic implications for the health of our environment.” Waratah-Wynyard Council’s General Manager Shane Crawford said. Climate change can negatively impact social wellbeing and health, as well as present new economic challenges for businesses and tourism. Changes in temperature and wind patterns will also influence our large agriculture industry and our flora and fauna. “We are proud to lead by example, setting an early target and committing to sustainable operations for our community’s future. We encourage our community to seek to reduce their own household and carbon emissions for our benefit and that of our future generations” Mr Crawford said. By committing to net zero emissions by 2030, Council will work towards avoiding and reducing emissions from its operations as much as possible. Any unavoidable residual emissions will be offset by purchasing carbon removal credits. Key priority areas for reducing our emissions include plant and equipment, facilities, methods of work and sustainable infrastructure. “While Council’s carbon footprint is one area of sustainability, we would like to work closely with the community on sustainability matters that are important to them,” Waratah-Wynyard Mayor Robby Walsh said. July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 9
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Wetlands now protected A 9.6-hectare section of the Hexham Wetlands used by the Awabakal people as a place of spiritual connection and ceremony has become the first site in Newcastle officially protected with an Aboriginal Place declaration by the NSW Minister for Heritage. The elevated outcrop known as Rocky Knob is located on the northern outskirts of the suburb of Fletcher within an area of Burraghihnbihng (Hexham Wetlands) traditionally used as a hunting and gathering place of the Pambalong Clan of the Awabakal people. Associated with spiritual beliefs that have been passed down through generations, the site is a place of ceremony and ritual used to mark the passing of ancestors and is one of the few undisturbed Aboriginal burial grounds that
still exist in NSW. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was important to honour the traditional custodians of the land and their cultural practices by conserving the region’s rich Aboriginal heritage for future generations. “I am pleased NSW Minister for Environment and Heritage James Griffin has taken steps to safeguard the cultural significance of this site by declaring it Newcastle’s first official Aboriginal Place,” Cr Nelmes said.
“This will provide it with valuable protection under the National Parks and Wildlife Act and ensure it can continue to be a place where cultural practices and stories can be passed on to future generations of First Nations people.” The area of Rocky Knob and its surrounds have connections through links in Songlines (cultural pathways) to Mount Sugarloaf, Black Hill Ridge and Doghole Cultural Site in Stockrington. The elevated site has views to and is visible
from a number of other culturally significant sites for the Awabakal people including Mount Sugarloaf in the southwest, Black Hill Ridge in the west, Tarro to the north and Newcastle to the southeast. Any land in NSW that is deemed to have special significance for Aboriginal culture, including public and private land, can be proposed for declaration as an Aboriginal Place, which acts as a process to recognise and legally protect Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Festival success An indie music crawl which took over CBD venues led a live music program full of Queensland’s best and exciting new talent for SPARK Ipswich earlier this month.
Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen was joined by her Councillor colleagues, Penrith City Council staff and Garry Rumble’s family members and friends for the naming ceremony held at the Garry Rumble Playspace.
Penrith City legends honoured Residents of the Penrith Local Government Area will be able to learn more about the City’s rich history at a central reserve and popular playspace as the council honours the work of local legends. Penrith City Council hosted two ceremonies in June to remember and celebrate the achievements of Teresa James, a passionate environmentalist, and Garry Rumble OAM, a stalwart of the Penrith community. Family members, friends and colleagues joined Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen for the unveiling of commemorative plaques at the newly named Teresa James Reserve in Claremont Meadows, and Garry Rumble Playspace at Pioneer Park in South Penrith. Cr Hitchen enjoyed hearing stories from their loved ones and was pleased to see residents out in droves to pay their respects for Teresa and Garry. “It is always hard to lose members of the community who spend their lives making
a difference, but to see how respected and adored they are is humbling and really rewarding for their families,” she said. “Council appreciates what these wonderful people have worked hard to achieve and represent in our City, so it’s only fitting to honour them in a special way. “In the cases of Teresa James and Garry Rumble, we have named an open space after each of them with a plaque on site detailing their outstanding contributions to the community. “We hope these become places their families can return to as a way of remembering them, while also educating residents about two local legends who have sadly passed but left behind outstanding legacies for our City.”
Teresa James’ family members joined Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen to unveil the new plaque honouring Teresa’s memory and her dedication to protecting bushland in Western Sydney.
Businesses welcome funding Latrobe City Council welcomed the Victorian Government’s support of 47 new jobs across Morwell and Traralgon through the Regional Jobs Fund. Latrobe businesses Bidfood Australia in Morwell and LV Shade Sails in Traralgon both received funding for their expansion plans. Bidfood will invest $13 million in a state-ofthe-art cold storage wholesale food distribution facility, creating 40 new jobs for a mix of skilled technical, transport and management workers. The investment is expected to grow the business annually, contributing to a stronger local economy. LV Shade Sails will create a new local manufacturing site – three times the size of the current facility – which will create seven new jobs for the region. Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Kellie 10 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
O’Callaghan thanked the Victorian Government for their support of Latrobe City’s local economy. “Council would like to thank the Victorian Government for their ongoing assistance through the Regional Jobs Fund. Their support of expansions at Bidfood Australia and LV Shade Sails will create more opportunities for our local people. “Ensuring our community have adequate career pathways and our City has opportunities to further develop and grow is a priority of Council. We are pleased to see this positive news that supports this vision,” said Cr. O’Callaghan.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said SPARK Ipswich’s 11-day city-wide program of events and activations included a showcase of the state’s next crop of rock, pop and hip-hop stars, classical masterpieces, musical treats from across the world and so much more. “Waghorn to West is Ipswich’s multivenue indie live music crawl where, for one night only, CBD venues became a haven for music lovers wanting to experience the best of Queensland’s scene alongside some of Ipswich’s most exciting emerging talent,” Mayor Harding said. This year’s expanded festival program featured several new additions including the festival’s hub – luminate – where friends and family could gather and enjoy SPARK AFTER DARK in the rejuvenated Ipswich Central and WOMI, now a free one-day World Music Festival in Springfield Central. “A new hub at Timothy Molony Park combined the best views of deLight at St Mary’s Church and pixel, the algorithmic light show at council’s administration building, with an outdoor stage that shone a nightly light on local artists, and feature delicious food truck offerings to stave off the cold,” Mayor Harding said. Council, in partnership with QMusic, hosted Sound the Horn - Waghorn to West’s music industry development event. The workshop will feature talks from Alex Henriksson (Matt Corby), Braydon Ritson (Front Row Artists, Mountain Goat Valley Crawl), Kristy Gostelow (Tia Gostelow, Busby Marou) and Maggie Collins (DZ Deathrays and Association of Artist Managers Australia), who helped artists plan their next professional steps in the industry. Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said SPARK Ipswich celebrates the creative and diverse communities that make Ipswich a special place to live.
Waghorn to West. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
METRO AND SUBURBAN
TURF TALK
Great grass By Daryl Davidson Mayor Tony Bleasdale welcomes one of the trout to Mount Druitt, and previous family fish in fun.
Family fishing fun Blacktown City’s fishiest event is back in 2022 - the family fish in! said the popular event is an opportunity for fishers of all skill levels to try their hand at landing a trout. “People have been coming to the fish-in for 30 years – it’s a really unique idea that has hooked people from all over Sydney. “The 600 trout will be fair game for all wanting to try their luck at the perfect catch. All you need to bring is your fishing rod or
line and bait.” The fish in will be held over the weekends of 5 - 6 and 12 - 13 August. There will be 50 fishing stations with hour-long sessions available each night at 5pm, 6.20pm and 7.40pm. A family can share a station, but it’s one rod per station, bag limits apply and no lures or nets. The event is held under a permit from NSW Department of Primary Industries.
New home for old playgrounds Greater Dandenong City Council continues to give new life to old playgrounds by partnering with Rotary to send play equipment overseas. The Rotary Overseas Recycled Playgrounds (RORP) program disassembles playgrounds earmarked for replacement, and flatpacks them for shipping overseas. Rotary members do a thorough inspection of equipment to make sure it is still safe and usable by overseas communities. In 2020, Rotary took an old playground that was removed to make way for the All Abilities Playground at Ross Reserve, Noble Park and relocated it to Sri Lanka. More recently an old playground at Sandra Reserve, Noble Park, was removed and will be sent to Fiji along with playgrounds collected from other Victorian suburbs. Throughout 2022 Council has earmarked four other playgrounds suitable for relocation through this program. Greater Dandenong City Council Mayor, Cr Jim Memeti said the partnership with Rotary was a win-win situation for all. “While we work here to replace playgrounds to make them safer and more accessible for local children, we get to see the removed equipment given a second life overseas,” the Mayor said.
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The City of Subiaco is home to approximately 15,000 trees – and this year, the City has planted 356 more as part of a yearly planting program within the City’s Environmental Plan.
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An ‘urban forest’ is a population of trees and other vegetation growing within an urban setting, with the purpose of improving the liveability of that urban setting, and also providing social, economic, and environmental benefits to the community as a whole. Urban forests include all the trees and shrubs on public and private land in and around urban areas, including bushland, parkland, wetlands, LGFOCUS.COM.AU
gardens and street trees. To increase Subiaco’s urban forest, the City conducts a yearly tree planting program along streets and within parks. Street trees provide many benefits that have both economic and intangible values. While they improve land value, they also purify urban air, filter noise, play a role in modifying the effects of climate, provide shade to reduce the heat generated from the road and verge surface, and im-
portantly, provide valuable habitats for the fauna associated with the Subiaco area. Street tree selection is based on the longterm interest of the community, the longevity and viability of the species, and the environmental benefits that the tree species may contribute. Wherever possible, Australian natives are selected for our street or park areas, as these best meet the City’s criteria.
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Mount Druitt Swimming Pool will be a fishers’ paradise over the first two weekends in August with the pool teeming with 600 succulent Snowy Mountains trout ready to be hooked. COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the 2021 family fish in, but the lifting of the restrictions has cleared the way for Council to once again open the pool to anglers young and old. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM
When starting a project for a park or sports field it’s very important to choose the right grass variety that can save you thousands of dollars year in year out after the project has been completed. The most common things to think about are: Climate - temperatures high and low throughout the year Location - in the middle of a dry desert or beside a salty beach. Shade - Trees of buildings that may prevent your grass from photosynthesizing to its full potential. Usage - What are you going to use the area for and always over-estimate the usage for future growth. Water Quality - How are you going to water your grass when it does not rain and where are you going to get it from. Expectations - what you expect from the project. Budget - Probably the most important one of all, even though some new varieties of grass may need less fertilizer they may need more maintenance attention to achieve the results you want. You can grow nearly any grass variety in most locations around the world just like having a lion in a zoo in the middle of Melbourne. But it will cost more money than keeping the same lion in a warmer climate. All grass varieties are different and behave differently, some may be closely related but they can behave like polar opposites while actually being related. In everyday life it’s always normal to get a second opinion when making big decisions for your facilities. International Greenkeepers are a large networking group with over six thousand members from over 90 countries. Feel free to check out our website and reach out if you need any help turf related as grass is not just grass. www.internationalgreenkeepers.com
Further information contact: T: 1300 764 526 | sales@soilbond.com.au soilbond.com.au July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 11
RURAL AND REGIONAL
Dog virus outbreak Gunnedah Shire Council temporarily closed the drop-boxes at its Animal Impound Facility because of an outbreak of canine parvovirus at the end of June. A number of dogs have been surrendered anonymously through the facility’s surrender boxes recently and some of these young dogs have been positive to parvovirus. To better manage symptomatic animals and reduce the risk of parvovirus affecting other seized dogs in the Animal Impound Facility, the surrender boxes on Quia Road were closed. Canine parvovirus is a serious and often fatal gastrointestinal viral disease that impacts unvaccinated puppies and dogs. Vet Chelsea Mitchell said Gunnedah Veterinary Hospital had treated about 14 cases in the past month and some of the dogs had to be euthanised. Ms Mitchell said the virus was generally spread in contaminated faeces by unvaccinated dogs, many of whom have been roaming around town. “Clinical signs are pretty consistent - lethargy, anorexia, vomiting and diarrhoea. Not all dogs will vomit and not all dogs will have diarrhoea. If it’s quite severe, they will have blood in the diarrhoea.” Ms Mitchell said there was no cure, so hydration was vital to survival. “Because they aren’t able to keep down water… they’re severely dehydrated and usually get secondary bacteria infections, and that’s usually what kills them,” she said. “Vaccination is 99.9 percent effective in preventing parvovirus infections, so ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date, and if you have a puppy that hasn’t had the full course, make sure it isn’t being taken out and exposed”. Council’s Regulatory Services coordinator Wade Berryman said vaccination was strongly encouraged as part of responsible pet ownership. “Pet owners are reminded that the health and well-being of their animals is their responsibility under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act NSW,” Mr Berryman said. “Owners who want to surrender healthy pets should first contact an approved rehoming organisation to find their dog or cat a ‘furever’ home.”
Work has started this week on the new home for one of the Fraser Coast’s most historic boats.
New pad Work has started on the new home for one of the Fraser Coast region’s most historic boats.
Vaccinations are the most effective way to keep dogs safe from canine parvovirus. Pictured are Gunnedah Veterinary Hospital’s Chelsea Mitchell with Milly.
Bowler supported Goulburn’s Ellen Ryan has received a significant boost before she jets off to the 2022 Commonwealth Games, with Goulburn Mulwaree Council providing financial assistance to the Australian lawn bowler. Councillors resolved a Mayoral Minute in June, which will see Ellen receive $5,000 from Council’s Financial Assistance Grant Funding. Ellen is making her Commonwealth Games debut in Birmingham. Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Peter Walker said Ellen was an outstanding athlete, as well as a great ambassador for her home town. “Ellen has notched up more than 100 caps for Australia so far in a remarkable career, and I am thrilled for her that she will make her Commonwealth Games senior debut in Birmingham,” Cr Walker said. “When you look at what she has achieved on the greens so far, it’s hard to believe Ellen is only 25. I am sure Ellen has a long and fantastic career ahead of her. “I know that all of Goulburn Mulwaree will be cheering on Ellen in Birmingham, along with the rest of the Australian contingent.” Ellen will be representing Australia in singles, before pairing up with her best friend Kristina Krstic from Western Australia. She said was so grateful for Council’s assistance. “This funding will greatly assist me with my preparation for my first Commonwealth Games,” Ellen said. “It will help with recovery items and make sure I’m financially stable for the month I’ll be away. 12 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
Ellen Ryan. “Born and bred in Goulburn, I can’t thank the community enough for all their support over the years.” The 2022 Commonwealth Games begin on 28 July 2022, running until 8 August 2022 in Birmingham, England. Ellen headed over to the UK on 11 July for a two-week training camp prior to the Games. Council will also formally write to Ellen to wish her every success in her pursuit of excellence at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Denis Chapman said the 102-year-old MV Ella was documented as being the longest registered vessel in the Port of Maryborough and was an example of little fishing vessels that operated on the Mary River. “After the Council bought the vessel in 1994 it was restored by a group of volunteers and put on display in the Bond Store Museum until 2015,” he said. “When it was removed as part of a revitalisation of the Bond Store visitor experience, the MV Ella was placed in storage with the help of volunteers and the son of the original builder as the new home was designed and built. “Its new home will be part of the Brolga Theatre precinct – beside the pathway linking the theatre to Lennox Street. “The vessel is an important link to our past and the display will provide another element to add to the growing list of historical attractions in the city.” It is anticipated that the project will be finished in August, weather permitting. The construction of the MV Ella display centre has been allocated $350,000 in funding under Round Three of the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland (W4Q) program.
Flood study demand Clarence Valley Mayor Ian Tiley has demanded the Clarence be included in any 2022 flood studies and assessments after discovering the region had been ignored in initial assessments by a NSW Government department. Mayor Tiley put forward the Minute at the June Council meeting upon advice from the Department of Planning and Environment that post flood data behaviour assessments already undertaken focused on the Richmond, Wilson, Brunswick and Tweed rivers - local government areas to the north of the Clarence Valley. Clarence Valley Council was excluded from this work on the basis that flood levels at the Prince Street, Grafton gauge were not considered of the same scale as rivers to the north and that there was already sufficient historical data about river behaviour based on the level at Grafton.Mayor Tiley stressed that this decision did not consider the significantly higher flood levels at towns and villages downstream. Grafton’s peak of 7.664m had an average exceedance probability* (AEP) of 6.6 per cent, compared to 2 per cent for Maclean’s 3.36m peak. “The flood level at Grafton was not a predictor for the flood behaviour downstream,” Mayor Tiley said. “It is clear the Clarence flood increased in volume as it moved downstream and staff consider it likely the extreme localised rainfall events in the tributaries of the lower catchment impacted Clarence River levels downstream of Grafton, and that post flood data behaviour assessments may inform these assumptions.” CVC previously reported in April that Yamba experienced its biggest rainfall event on record, with 1267mm in February and March. This included 274.4mm on 28 February - the highest 24-hour February total on record - and 258.2mm on 1 March for a total of 532mm.
A large section of Yamba Road east of the Pacific Highway and neighbouring properties under flood in early March 2022. “There has been no event or combination of events since records began that comes close to the rainfall totals recorded at Yamba in February and March,” Clarence Valley Council Director Works and Civil Jamie Fleeting said at the time. The Mayoral Minute received unanimous support at the Clarence Valley Council Ordinary Meeting at Maclean Council Chambers. Council will now advocate through the NSW Premier, Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Minister for Environment and Heritage and Member for Clarence that Clarence Valley Council and the Clarence River be included in any other post 2022 flood and storm event studies and assessments undertaken across the Northern Rivers by the Environment Heritage Group or any other State departments. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
RURAL AND REGIONAL
Moorabool baby boom For the second consecutive year Moorabool is experiencing a baby boom, with 506 babies born over the past 12 months – the highest number on record for the Shire. This year’s figure tops 2020/2021’s previous record high of 462 births with an additional 44 babies – more than the size of an average kinder group. Council’s Maternal and Child Health Service recorded the extraordinary boom, with nurses seeing a 58% total increase in births over the past 15 years. It’s also a significant jump from 2019/2020’s
birth figures, with 391 babies born in the year prior to the COVID pandemic. “The Maternal and Child Health team has worked exceptionally hard throughout the pandemic. They’ve continued to provide face-toface services to the community, and ensured families are provided with ongoing wellbeing, parenting, breastfeeding and sleep support, in-
cluding over the phone or via video calls where required,” Moorabool Mayor, Cr Tom Sullivan said. “We thank the team for their outstanding commitment during this time and congratulate all the Moorabool families welcoming new babies,” Cr Sullivan added. Thanks to record births and tree-changers,
Moorabool Shire’s population has grown by 2% every year since 2005 and is forecast to double by 2040. The challenge for Council going forward is to provide high quality services for our growing population, and to work with and advocate to State and Federal Governments to provide adequate services for our growing community.
Spreading ripples of excitement Wildlife support When Jumpers and Jazz in July began in 2004 in Warwick on Queensland’s Southern Downs the local community, along with the rest of the world, got its first taste of a new phenomenon called yarn bombing. Crafters, looking to break free from the conventional ways of applying their craft, started activating hard, utilitarian elements of the urban landscape with cosy coverings made of wool. Door knobs, security fences, safety bollards and even an army tank were some of the early manifestations of this new “craft” movement. The team working on Jumpers and Jazz in July all those years ago employed some of the subversive tactics of the yarnbombing movement to promote the burgeoning winter festival. Volunteers hung knitted jumpers on trees on Albion Street before sunrise, much to the surprise of the media and community. Looking for other ways to get people excited about the yarnbombing festival, the idea to dress the Thomas Byrnes monument in winter woollies was born. The first year the monument was adorned was 2006 and each subsequent year a fresh matching scarf and beanie set has been made and installed, still taking place early in the morning under the watchful eye of Warwick Art Gallery Director Karina Devine. “Though quite a complicated process involving permissions and assistance from various contractors, it is a very important part of the Jumpers and Jazz in July festival,” says Ms Devine. “The festival totally transforms the region into a cultural tourism destination and the dressing of the Byrnes monument announces to everyone that the festival is about to begin and all over the region artwork appears to delight us all.” The Queensland QRL Maroons team visit to Warwick on the 5 - 6 July provided inspiration for the outfit created by local knitter Dawn Booth
More than $4,350 in donations collected during Cairns City Council’s two most recent free green waste disposal periods will assist in the care of sick, orphaned and injured native wildlife.
The cold morning and drizzly weather didn’t dampen Mayor Vic Pennisi’s enthusiasm when dressing Warwick’s Tom Byrnes statue in preparation for the upcoming Jumpers and Jazz Festival. for the monument this year. The maroon scarf and beanie was installed early on Friday the 1 July in readiness for the Maroons visit. Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi was enthusiastic about assisting with the install. “The iconic Thomas Byrnes monument has over the years become a much loved and integral part in signaling the start of Queensland’s quirkiest winter festival, Jumpers and Jazz in July,” Mayor Pennisi said. “Each year, volunteers conjure up an outfit befitting of the festival theme and Thomas proudly wears his beanie and scarf for all to appreciate and photograph.
“The 2022 festival theme is Ripple and with the mighty Queensland Maroons bringing their regional fan day to Warwick in July, it is only fitting that Mr Byrnes gets into the Maroons spirit as a proud Queenslander. “The Queensland Rugby League Regional Fan Day might occur on a single date, but the ripples left in the community will endure well past the event. “Ripples of pride in Queensland, the local community and our youth, share key synergies with the goals of the Jumpers and Jazz in July Festival. Who knew rugby league and yarnbombing had so much in common!”
Lockyer concerns discussed Hot topics impacting the Lockyer Valley were put under the spotlight when the Lockyer Valley Regional Council hosted a visit from the Governor-General of Australia, His Excellency David Hurley and his wife. Lockyer Valley Regional Council organised between Governor-General and Mrs Hurley and representatives from the region’s agricultural sector, flood-affected residents and local families, support agencies and Council’s Recovery Committee to understand the level of impact and the long road ahead. Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said their Excellencies showed genuine interest for the wellbeing of the region. “The concern shown for our region was heart-warming and I’m confident they will take our issues on board as they continue their duties. “As a Council, we are committed to ensuring our community has a voice. “Three severe weather events in seven months have had a very real impact across many sectors of our community and as Mayor, I will continue to fight to ensure our region receives as much support as possible throughout the recovery process,” Mayor Milligan said. Mayor Milligan has this week met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Senator Murray Watt, His Excellency the Governor-General and mayors from all corners of the country. “These are vital interactions that will greatly assist in paving the way for our region’s recovery and future,” Mayor Milligan said. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning presented $4,353.15 to Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue. “We are very pleased to be able to make this donation on behalf of residents to this very important service,” Cr Manning said. “FNQ Wildlife Rescue has been assisting distressed native wildlife for more than three decades. “In just the past year, the organisation has assisted over 1,700 birds and animals, and attended many more rescues.” FNQ Wildlife Rescue provides a 24/7 emergency hotline for wildlife calls and maintain a Wildlife Admin Centre in Cairns, which is staffed by volunteers. The centre provides an administration and storage centre for wildlife rescuers and carers, as well as venue for meetings and some training sessions and workshops. FNQ Wildlife Rescue treasurer Aline Sheehan said the donation would assist with annual expenses, including the purchase of specialised foods, provide for professional training sessions and workshops, and support wildlife carers by subsidising some expenses, such as fuel costs. “As a volunteer organisation, we receive no government funding and rely on our membership and community support and donations to keep us going, yet we provide an essential service to the community,” Mrs Sheehan said. “We receive over 450 calls per month from members of the public requesting assistance with sick, orphaned or injured wildlife. “Most of these animals are taken in by our volunteer carers who raise them to a stage where they can be released back into their natural habitat.”
Mayor Bob Manning presents the cheque to FNQ Wildlife Rescue treasurer Aline Sheehan and vice-president Jeanette Black. The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley met with agricultural industry representatives at UQ Gatton. July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 13
RURAL AND REGIONAL
Name that centre At a recent Maranoa Council Meeting, Council resolved to seek community consultation for the naming of the Roma Saleyards Interpretive Centre. The Council has invited residents to take part in the Have Your Say questionnaire and submit their suggestions for what they believe would be a great name for the Interpretive Centre in keeping with the cattle in-
The new glasshouse
Green thumbs’ house The brand new $1.4m Glasshouse at the North Coast Regional Garden in Coffs Harbour has been officially opened. “The Botanic Garden is often referred to as Coffs Harbour’s best-kept secret, but the reality is that thousands of people every year visit and enjoy this beautiful corner of paradise,” Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos said. The Mayor opened the Glasshouse along with Gurmesh Singh MP, Pat Conaghan MP and President of the Friends of the Botanic Garden Nola Miles. “And now we have this splendid new Glasshouse which will only see more and more people coming here to discover the wonders of the Botanic Garden,” he said. The Glasshouse, which was designed by local firm GHD, offers two experiences – a tropical house and a shade house. Temperature and ventilation is controlled in the tropical house by a passive, energy-efficient system that uses the Sun, thermal heat storage in the stone walls and pathways and computer-controlled louvre vents. This maintains the temperature at around 32 degrees. A nine kilowatt heating system assists during the winter. The roof and some walls are also fitted with special gel-coated ‘webglas’ to reduce the loss of heat and watering of the plants is provided by a micro spray system. The adjacent shade house displays the Garden’s extensive bromeliad and orchid collections along with a wide range of ferns and shade-loving species. They are kept cool and damp by the roof, natural air flow, a drip irrigation system and undersoil drainage. The Glasshouse foyer area is designed as flexible space able to accommodate educational visits and events. Members of the Friends of the Botanic Garden assisted with the establishment of plants in and around the new facility. “The Glasshouse is a fantastic addition to the many different experiences the Garden offers visitors all year round,” said Garden Curator Rick Ackland. The project cost $1,464,096 in total. It was funded from a $782,096 grant from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), a $597,300 grant from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserve Improvement Fund (CRIF) and the balance from Coffs Harbour City Council. 14 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
dustry and the historical importance of the RomaSaleyards. Established in 2019, the Interpretive Centre encourages visitors and users of the saleyards to learn about the fascinating history of the
cattle industry in the Maranoa and the accomplishments of the RomaSaleyards. Council will be accepting suggestions for the name of the Interpretive Centre from now until Friday, 29 July 2022.
More than 200 attend launch The Burdekin celebrated the launch of its second First Five Forever Storywalk with more than 200 people at Plantation Park on Thursday, 30 June. The Storywalk, featuring picture book Once I Munched A Mango by Samantha Wheeler, will be on display until Friday 29 July. Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the event celebrated the First Five Forever values of talking, reading, singing and playing with children while exploring the outdoors. “I want to thank all families who joined us for the Plantation Park Storywalk launch as part of the Burdekin Library’s school holiday program – our Library Officers were joined by more than 200 boys and girls from across the Shire, as well as the team from Hands On Wildlife, Play Two Learn Burdekin and Burdekin Shire Youth Council,” Cr McLaughlin said. “The launch included free morning tea
Enjoying a walk and a story. served by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council, colouring in and messy play activities, an interactive Storywalk with the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival mascot Mick the Cane Cutter,
lucky door prizes, a mystery book pack station, First Five Forever giveaways and more. “The Storywalk will remain on display until the end of July in Plantation Park. I encourage all families to visit and read the picture book, which also includes actions for children to do as they walk from one page of the story to the next. “While the Burdekin Library has a jampacked school holiday program, there are a range of activities offered by the Library throughout the year. From First 5 Forever programming including Storytime, Baby Rhyme Time and Toddler Time through to Tech Connect sessions for residents hoping to gain a greater understanding of technology in group or one-on-one sessions, there is something for all ages.”
Cairns Councillor Amy Eden (front) with (from left) Douglas Shire Council Deputy Mayor, Lisa Scomazzon, Senior Sergeant Marty Ots, Acting Chief Superintendent Chris Hodgman, and Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Angela Toppin, at the Backseat Books launch at Cairns City Library.
Backseat books support kids Police in Far North Queensland are working with libraries to collect and distribute books to children involved in traumatic events, providing them with a welcome and healthy distraction during a time of crisis. Backseat Books is an initiative led by Senior Sergeant Marty Ots, and is now being rolled out throughout the Far North policing district after being trialled in regional towns including Cairns from 2020. Senior Sergeant Ots said that providing children with a book while they are in the back seat of a police vehicle allows the children to redirect their attention and reduce the lasting impacts of trauma. “Unfortunately, children can bear witness to confronting and challenging situations that can leave them quite distressed,” Senior Sergeant Ots said. “Through this program, our aim is to have a range of books in the back seat of police vehicles that can be distributed to a child in crisis, providing a welcome distraction and calming the child.” Acting Chief Superintendent Chris Hodg-
man said the initiative helps improve relationships between young people and police. “Research indicates that children exposed to multiple adverse experiences are more likely to lead a dysfunctional lifestyle, and be more susceptible to getting into trouble with police as they got older,” Acting Chief Superintendent Hodgman said. “Backseat Books is designed to provide a safe space for children to escape from their crisis.” The books have been collected over the past six months, donated by the State Library of Queensland and local Councils, including Cairns Regional Council. Cairns Councillor Amy Eden said the program introduced children to a constructive distraction and fostered a love of reading in young people.
“Readers of all ages can transform their mindset and escape to another world through immersing themselves in a good book,” Cr Eden said. “To provide young people experiencing a traumatic event with a book appropriate to their age, reading level and cultural considerations can reduce stress, provide a mental escape and exercise imagination. “Over 900 books have been collated by Cairns Libraries – from picture books to junior fiction and non-fiction titles – which are now being donated to this amazing program. “We are proud to support Backseat Books to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable community members, and hope that this initiative will also improve literacy and foster a genuine love of reading in Cairns’ young people.” LGFOCUS.COM.AU
NEWS
Report process simplified The WA Local Government Association (WALGA) has welcomed Local Government Minister, John Carey’s announcement, on Monday, 13 June regarding more simplified financial reporting processes for Local Governments, which was phased in from 1 July. WALGA has long been advocating for a more streamlined system on behalf of its member Councils to ease the administrative time commitment and costs of financial reporting. While the new process will be streamlined, all financial statements will still be audited by
the Office of the Auditor General to ensure that there is transparency and accountability for all ratepayers regarding their Councils’ finances. WALGA President Cr Karen Chappel said that the Association had been advocating for the required level of detail in annual financial
reports to be re-assessed, especially for small and medium sized Councils. “The new requirements will reflect the individual Council’s scale of operations so that it will not only make it easier for them to produce their financial reports, but it will for easier for
residents and ratepayers to understand them.” President Chappel said. “The fact that the new reports will be quicker and easier to produce should also cost less, further benefiting ratepayers.”
Rental vacancy rate lowest in 16 years The average vacancy rate across all capital cities has now hit a 16 year low of just one per cent according to Kevin Young, President of Property Club, one of Australia’s largest independent property groups. Mr Young said that this 16-year record low vacancy rate combined with surging inflation would see asking rents on average rise across the main capital cities in Australia by over 20 per cent during the coming year. “Asking rents on average have already jumped by around 15 per cent over the past year and with the RBA now projecting overall inflation to rise to seven per cent by December 2022, renters should brace themselves for big rent increases during the next twelve months as the rental vacancy rate famine worsens. “The last time the average national rental vacancy were lower than now occurred back in 2006 when it fell to 0.8 per cent and that also led to a surge in rents across Australia. “However, the major difference in 2022 is inflation is now out of control while interest rates are surging and as a result landlords will pass on any inflationary costs and mortgage interest rate rises onto tenants. “Australia is now facing a homeless crisis time bomb that will explode unless we urgently increase the supply of private sector rental properties.
“Property Club believes this can only happen unless two major reforms are undertaken to boost the supply of private sector rental homes over the long term. “Renters are now paying the price for two misguided policies that have seen many investors sell their properties and discourage them from buying second hand homes. “New banking rules have forced hundreds of thousands of property investors to switch their loans from interest only to principal and interest loans. Many cannot afford the additional mortgage repayments and sold their homes to owner occupiers that have left their tenants scrambling to find a new home. “At the same time the Federal Government removed tax depreciation benefits associated with second hand properties meaning that investors were encouraged to buy only new properties which again shrank the supply of available rental homes. “Unless these two changes are undertaken immediately, Property Club believes that Australia will shortly face an unprecedented rental housing crisis,” he said.
Kevin Young
FOCUS ON AWRE CONFERENCE
Focus on cleaner, more sustainable future As the premier business event for the waste, recycling and resource recovery sector, AWRE returns to the ICC Sydney on 24 – 25 August. AWRE provides a platform for the best to come together and join forces for a world of solutions towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. With exciting new show floor features and a jam-packed seminar program, visitors will have the opportunity to browse the latest waste innovations, learn from influential industry leaders and reconnect face-to-face. Exhibitors for the event include Isuzu Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, HYVA, Hitachi Construction Machinery and Steinert Australia. The AWRE show floor will also boast new industry zones, showcasing products and solutions in emerging and rapidly developing sectors within waste and recycling, including the LGFOCUS.COM.AU
Recycled Zone, Innovations Zone and AORA Organics Zone. Other new additions to AWRE 2022 include the inaugural Resource Recovery Summit – “Getting to 80 per cent”, a half-day summit for high-level collaboration between industry, government and waste generators . The program will feature an opening address from Tony Chapple, CEO of NSW EPA, as well as expert speakers including Suzanna Toumbourou, CEO of The Australian Council of Recycling, Rick Ralph, CEO of the National Waste & Recycling
Industry Council and Ros Dent, Environmental Manager of Bingo. The Resource Recovery Reception will also join the summit as a new networking event at AWRE 2022.Serving as the ultimate networking evening, the reception will bring together waste and recycling professionals from across the country to celebrate our industry. Visitors will also see the free-to-attend seminar program make its return to the show floor, running across the two days featuring 40+ speakers and two programs as the industry’s
most influential tackle the sector’s most challenging and compelling issues today. Speakers featured include Nicole Garofano, Head of Circular Economy at Planet Ark, Nerida Kelton, Executive Director at the Australian Institute of Packaging, Justin Bonsey, Strategic Lead – Resource Recovery at SSROC and Mark Dudman, Senior Risk Consultant at Driverisk. Registration is now open and free, visitors can join the industry and discover a world of solutions this August by simply registering online for their trade pass here: https://bit.ly/3yrWWmI July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 15
NEWS
Shire’s Sister City Gunnedah Shire has welcomed a new Sister City after signing an official agreement with Kolomotu’a, Tonga. Gunnedah welcomed Her Royal Highness Princess Angelika Lãtúfuipeka Tuku‘aho, the High Commissioner of the Kingdom of Tonga, to the Commonwealth of Australia last week to recognise and formalise the relationship between Kolomotu’a and the Gunnedah Shire. “We are excited,and honoured to welcome Kolomotu’a as our new Sister City. Gunnedah is, in fact, the first to sign a Sister-City Agreement with the Kingdom of Tonga, which is a great privilege,” Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said. “This is a special moment in the history of Gunnedah and our horizons for this wonderful Sister City relationship are endless. We have so much to offer, and so do our friends in Kolomotu’a. “Both of us have a love of the land and a strong tradition of agriculture. We are both passionate about the future of our homes, and enthusiastic to form a partnership that will further our economies and the cultural richness of our communities. “There are significant employment opportunities here in Gunnedah, both in agriculture and far beyond, that can provide experience and support for Tongan workers and families. We can share skills, training, culture and tourism. “I look forward to this relationship growing and strengthening, and exploring all the possibilities it opens to both of us.” Her Royal Highness shared her excitement at visiting the Shire and said it was wonderful to be able to see and learn first-hand the needs of its people. “The opportunities Gunnedah is providing for Kolomotu’a is where supply meets demand
New research from Monash University reveals that food insecurity is a significant issue for many young Australians.
The Tongan delegation and Gunnedah Shire planted a eucalypt tree at Wolseley Park to represent the growing relationship between the Gunnedah Shire and Kolomotu’a, Tonga. Pictured is Aleki Aleamotu’a, a representative of the Kolomotu’a community in Sydney. in areas such as a wide range of administrative, economic, investment, trade, agriculture, tourism, education, cultural, labour mobility and other activities of mutual exchange benefit. This is also where our friendship begins and our people to people relations are strengthened,” she said. “We hope that we will positively continue
and progress in the spirit of the Sister City friendly relations step by step into the future to learn and help each other.” Cr Chaffey said Tongans had been part of the Shire community for many years, and they had shown themselves to be hard-working, trustworthy, and a kind, caring and loyal people.
Ceremonial fire pit a winner Greater Dandenong City Council won the First Nations Community Partnership Initiative Award for the Waa and Bulln Bulln Corroboree (Springvale ceremonial fire pit) at the LGPro Awards for Excellence. The ceremonial fire pit, Waa and Bulln Bulln Corroboree, was designed by Indigenous artist and Kirrae Whurrong woman Fiona Clarke and her collaborator Ken McKean, in partnership with Bunurong and Wurundjeri Land Councils. It is an important focal point of the Springvale Community Hub and recognises the Traditional Owners, the Wurundjeri and Bunurong of the Kulin nation. Greater Dandenong City Council Mayor, Cr Jim Memeti said Council was honoured to receive this excellence award. “The ceremonial fire pit depicts the coming together of the Bunurong and Wurundjeri peoples and their connection to Country. The elements of fire, stone, water and flora come together in harmony as a place of gathering,
Firepit proves a winner. storytelling and connection,” said the Mayor. The artwork has created a space for community to practice culture with purposebuilt infrastructure, and to develop a deeper
connection with where they live. By telling First Nations’ stories through public art, the Greater Dandenong community continues to connect with the longest living culture in the world. The Indigenous artwork includes a symbolic sculpture comprising of two large bluestones. A crow (Waa) and a lyrebird (Bulln Bulln) have been hand carved into the stone symbolising the two local Indigenous clans. As night falls, the carvings glow and reflect the night sky above. The bluestone rock symbolises the Traditional Owners’ connection to the earth. Between the carvings of Waa and Bulln Bulln is a sheet of steel symbolising the connection between the Wurundjeri and Bunurong peoples and the strength of their culture.
Call for national bag standard The decision by the Queensland Government to ban all disposable plastic shopping bags steps up the attack on polluting single use plastic items, according to Boomerang Alliance. However Campaign Manager for the Alliance of 55 groups, Toby Hutcheon said the group was particularly excited by the plan to introduce a Reusable Shopping Bag Standard to ensure all shopping bags available from retailers will be genuinely reusable in the future. He said disposable coffee cups are now also centre of the agenda. “The introduction of a Reusable Shopping bag standard is an important precedent that will combat greenwash and waste,” Hutcheon said. “It’s the missing piece of the jigsaw we have all been waiting for. The key to reducing heavyweight plastic bag use is in facilitating shoppers to repeatedly use their own bags. Reuse will also reduce consumer costs. “A Reusable Bag Standard, as proposed by 16 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
Food security in focus
the Boomerang Alliance working with the National Retailers Association, means that all reusable shopping bags will need to be designed for multiple use by achieving a minimum 125 shopping cycles, be strong and durable, made from recycled materials and collected for recycling at the end of their useful life. Bags that don’t pass the test will not be available. It spells the end of heavyweight greenwash reusable bags. “We urge all other States and Territories to join Queensland in regulating a Reusable Bag Standard and introducing a ban on non-compliant bags by September 2023.” “With the State Government aiming to phase out disposable coffee cups, the Boomerang Alliance is calling for urgent action by other States to join Queensland in taking this
action. We need a national and harmonised ban on problem coffee cups by 2023. An estimated one billion are used and end up littered or in landfill every year. Boomerang will be releasing a policy in coming months. Boomerang will be releasing a policy in coming months.” Queensland has announced its second tranche of plastic bans. It includes a ban on plastic stemmed cotton buds, microbeads in personal care and cleaning products, and loose polystyrene packaging. “Of particular significance is the ban on the mass release of lighter than air (helium) balloons, a ban that will be warmly welcomed by all those concerned about the devastating effects of these balloons on marine life”, Mr Hutcheon said.
A national survey conducted by the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice (CYPEP) found one in five young Australians has experienced food insecurity in the past two years. Further, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, and young people with a disability are more likely to experience food insecurity. Food insecurity occurs when young Australians lack social, economic and physical access to food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences, preventing them from leading a healthy and active life. At a time when cost of living pressures are rising, this national survey paints a dark picture of the experiences and realities of food insecurity for young people. “The findings of this report are striking because they show that as many as one in five young people have been struggling to regularly access nutritious food, or have been going without entirely. Access to food is a human right,” says the report’s lead author Dr Cathy Waite, who called upon governments to do more. “This is not good enough. Governments and policy-makers should be prepared to assist young people in times of immense uncertainty and disruption. The findings highlight the need for local wrap-around solutions to food insecurity that can cater for people with diverse cultural and ability needs.” The Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice surveyed 505 young Australians nationally and undertook indepth interviews with more than 30 to examine food insecurity experienced by young people in Australia today. The survey finds that financial stability, employment and where young people live are key factors in experiencing food insecurity, a situation amplified by the pandemic. Among the key findings of those who experienced food insecurity in 2021: 75.8 per cent experienced financial difficulties 35.2 per cent were out of work but looking for a job 50.5 per cent reported that very often the food they wanted to buy was not available in their suburb or town 38.5 per cent reported their mental health was significantly impacted by COVID-19 Co-author, Professor Lucas Walsh, said: “This report uniquely shines a light on young people who not only struggle to access healthy food, but on those who struggle to get food at all. With current costs of living going up, we can expect this situation to get worse. Increasingly, young people are having to choose between electricity or eating.” “It may surprise some readers that in a supposedly prosperous country, young people from a wide variety of backgrounds experience food insecurity at various points of their lives,” he said. The report is co-authored by Dr Catherine Waite, Dr Beatriz Gallo Cordoba, Professor Lucas Walsh, Dr Masha Mikola and Blake Cutler from the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, Faculty of Education, Monash University. Read the report here: https://doi. org/10.26180/20128370
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FOCUS ON ALGA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022
NGA supports Ukraine Councils from across Australia have come together at the 2022 NGA in Canberra to support the people of Ukraine, unanimously passing the following motion: “We the delegates of the 2022 National General Assembly of Local Government stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and its legitimate elected democratic governments in seeking peace, security and stability within the State of Ukraine.” The motion followed an address to the Assembly by the Ukraine Ambassador, His Excellency Vasyl Myroshnychenko. ALGA President Linda Scott said the Am-
bassador was warmly received by almost 1,000 councillors and local government leaders. “Councils around Australia – and the world – are committed to local democracy, and we have been horrified by the images we have seen and the reports we have read coming out of Ukraine.” “As we gathered in Canberra today, we wanted to send a powerful and united message of support to the Ukraine people, and
their democratically elected governments.” Speaking to NGA delegates, the Ukraine Ambassador said he had been pleased by the support he had received from local governments. “I have travelled extensively and met many mayors and lord mayors and I am amazed by all the people I have met. I have received many letters of support from local governments across the country,” Ambassador Myroshnychenko said.
“We need more support; the level of destruction is enormous. Hospitals, schools and important infrastructure have all been destroyed. It will take one to two generations to re-build.” “Local governments can help mostly by connecting local services to those Ukrainians who have relocated into your communities, and by raising money to help Ukrainians rebuild critical infrastructure such as schools and hospitals,” he said.
Mayor invites Ukraine ambassador north Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio has invited Ukrainian Ambassador Mr Vasyl Myroshnychenko to visit the Toowoomba region and see first-hand why the garden city is a refugee welcome zone. The invitation comes after Mayor Antonio met Ambassador Myroshnychenko at the recent Local Government Association of Australia National Conference in Canberra. “It was so inspiring to hear Ambassador Myroshnychenko speak in Canberra about his amazing journey to get to Australia to take up his ambassadorship after the Russian invasion of his country. “At the same time, it is also shocking and disheartening to hear of the millions of Ukrainians that have now been displaced as a result of Russia’s attacks. “The people of Toowoomba stand beside those of the Ukraine and I personally condemn the barbaric Russian invasion of the Ukraine. “Toowoomba is Australia’s Garden City, we are a refugee welcome zone and have
an inclusive community that has helped to resettle thousands of migrants from all over the world in recent years. “Our industry is built of the back of the agricultural sector, much in the same way Ukraine relies so heavily on their $13 billion farming and food processing industry. “Ukrainians who choose to call Toowoomba home would be welcome with open arms and have a plethora of employment opportunities at their feet. “I have invited Ambassador Myroshnychenko and his family to come and visit Toowoomba to see first-hand why we are one of Australia’s most liveable regions. “I look forward to hearing from the Ambassador in coming weeks,” Mayor Antonio said.
Motions advocate transmission change Motions for policy change for major transmission network projects were adopted at major local government in June. Motions for policy change for major transmission network projects were adopted at major local government in June. The motions, submitted by Moorabool Shire Council to the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) and the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) ,were adopted at the National General Assembly and State Council meeting, held on 20-22 June and 24 June respectively. The motions advocate for reforming the regulatory process for major transmission network projects, calling on the state and federal governments to develop policies for: 1. Conducting and integrating community engagement findings when planning for and delivering renewable energy high-voltage transmission projects. 2. Ensuring all future high-voltage transmission projects will be required to investigate the lowest social, environmental and economic impact technologies and design options available. “The current regulatory process for major transmission network projects is not fit for purpose, and we are encouraged that our local government colleagues are with us on this issue,” Moorabool Mayor, Cr Tom Sullivan said. Council is supportive of Australia’s transition to renewable energy and recognises that new energy infrastructure is central to achieving this. However, it is of concern that insufficient weight is being given to understanding and integrating community voice and environmental impacts from the outset of infrastructure planning. Moorabool is one of the local government areas impacted by the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project, recently rebranded the Western Renewables Link. The project proposes to construct a 190 km overhead highvoltage transmission line throughout western LGFOCUS.COM.AU
Mayor Paul Antonio has invited Ukrainian Ambassador Mr Vasyl Myroshnychenko to Toowoomba. Picture: ALGA
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The Western Freeway. Victoria, approximately 60km of which is in Moorabool Shire. “It is critical that planning for and designing new infrastructure considers potential environmental impacts and community views at the earliest opportunity, while there is still capacity to facilitate locally appropriate development,” Cr Sullivan added. Moorabool will continue to advocate for all levels of government to work together to achieve Australia’s renewable energy transition without unacceptable burden on communities and the environment. To find out more about the Council’s response to the Western Renewables Link, visit moorabool.vic.gov.au/transmissionlines
Training, resources and the IAP2A Certificate in Engagement - now available to study in our facilitated virtual classroom or in-house in your workplace Recognition with the IAP2 Excellence in Core Value Awards Connect to and share knowledge with other engagement professionals Network, share and learn at the annual IAP2A Conference, October 2022, Melbourne
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July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 17
FOCUS ON ALGA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022
Successful conference The National General Assembly of Local Government returned to Canberra for the second year after missing 2020 due to Covid. Last year’s event was not nearly as successful as this year’s which had more than 1000 delegates taking part in the ALGA event.
Graham Curley and Amit Tandel from Atturra.
ALGA delegates Mayor Charlie Sheahan and Les McMahon representing Cootamundra/ Gundagai Council.
Greg Collins and Kelvin Williams from Audio Brands promoting Bosch conferencing systems.
Hannah Clayton, Cities Power Partnership, and Mayor Ken Keith, OAM, B.Sc.Ag, Parkes Shire.
Tyre Stewardship team Michelle Rodler and Tolga Huseyin.
Local Councils are pivotal in leading Australia’s sustainable future as they can influence where used tyres end up and how our local waste tyre market operates.
CONTRIBUTE TO A CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Use TSA Accredited tyre brands on Council vehicles Use TSA accredited retailers to buy tyres for Council vehicles Use TSA accredited recyclers for end-of-life tyre management at Transfer Stations Get Council’s fleets TSA Accredited Procure companies that utilise Australian tyre-derived products
APPLY NOW FOR TSA ACCREDITATION AND REGISTER YOUR COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE OUTCOMES FOR AUSTRALIA’S USED TYRES
Facilitate changing of road / asphalt specifications to ensure Australian tyre derived materials are utilised
To register you can also email
getonboard@tyrestewardship.org.au
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FOCUS ON ALGA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022
Tonnes of waste diverted Thanks to the 355 local government councils who host agricultural and veterinary chemical container sites, Australian property owners have diverted millions of tonnes of agricultural waste from landfill towards recycling projects or safe disposal. Since 1999, councils have demonstrated their strong commitment to improved waste management practices, by engaging with the drumMUSTER and ChemClear agricultural waste services. As the nation’s longest running agricultural stewardship programs, drumMUSTER has been instrumental in helping landholders clear their land of 40 million empty agvet drums, while ChemClear has safely disposed of more than 790 tonnes of unwanted chemicals. Councils who host collection sites for regular chemical pickups are not only allowing a safe product disposal pathway for local residents, they’re helping Australians to keep their land and waterways pristine. With recent flooding events in SE QLD and Northern NSW, ChemClear partnered with the QLD Government, as well as the NSW EPA to provide a targeted, free collection of flood affected agvet chemicals to ensure the safe disposal of these chemicals. Farm safety is vital to the continued viability of the Australian food and fibre industries and with the amount of agvet products diverted from landfill and into recycling projects, it’s clear farmers get the message and want to deliver on better farm safety. If your local council would like to get involved, contact drumMUSTER on 1800 008 707 or ChemClear on 1800 008 182.
Collecting the drums for recycling.
Large numbers at General Assembly More than 1,000 delegates from around Australia headed for Canberra for the 28th National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA). The event – the second since Covid lockdown of 2020 – was held from 20-22 June. Convened by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) the NGA is the largest national gathering of democratically elected representatives in the nation. This year’s NGA featured a number of Federal politicians who attended and spoke at the main event or associated events, including Minister King, Minister McBain, Minister Watt, Minister Burney, Minister Rowland, Leader of the National Party David Littleproud, and Zali Steggall OAM who all moved to reaffirm the importance of local government. The event welcomed and congratulated the new labor Government particularly the new particularly the two ministers responsible for local government Catherine King and former Bega Valley Shire Mayor Kristy McBain. The Assembly welcomed the announcement from King that she would work with Minister McBain to re-establish the Australian Council of Local Governments and was encouraged by the Government’s willingness to engage and partner with local councils. The theme of this year’s Assembly ‘Partners in Progress’ saw councillors commit to partnering with the Australian Government to progress critical reforms, including national productivity, climate change transition, Closing the Gap, housing affordability including increased social housing, appropriate road safety reforms, restoring integrity of federal funding to local government, and improved local delivery of community services.
The Assembly committed to progressing the next step of Closing the Gap and passed a motion supporting the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The Assembly also heard from leading economists that local government is the most productive level of government yet collects just four percent of national taxation revenue. Delegates and speakers recognised the protracted challenges of the COVID pandemic, unprecedented droughts, bushfires, and recent floods, and commended the work of local councils, local communities and government agencies on their work on emergency response and recovery. A number of flood-affected leaders also met personally with the Prime Minister, and highlighted ways to better work together to prevent and prepare for natural disasters. Other critical issues addressed at the Assembly included migration between cities and regions, housing affordability and the role councils can play in social housing in particular, critical workforce challenges and road safety. 12557880-NG28-22
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July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 19
FOCUS ON FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
‘Invest’ welcomed Gannawarra Shire Council has welcomed the launch of the INVEST Loddon Mallee initiative – an online resource promoting this innovative region’s economic strengths and opportunities. Created by the 10 local government areas that make up the Loddon Mallee region - including Gannawarra Shire Council - INVEST Loddon Mallee is an investment attraction resource that targets both public and private investors. The main resource is the INVEST Loddon Mallee website – www.investloddonmallee. com.au – which provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s industries, locations and investment opportunities. The site also showcases some of the innovative businesses already thriving in the region and highlights projects seeking investment. “The economic profile of the Gannawarra has changed during the past decade, led by
innovative agricultural operations, new energy projects and growth in manufacturing,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said. “Investment opportunities will expand considerably in the next decade thanks to projects such as VHM’s mineral sands project at Goschen, the growing popularity of nature based tourism in the Gannawarra and the construction of KerangLink. “INVEST Loddon Mallee is a one-stop shop that delivers economic information about each local government area, that demonstrates businesses working the different industries as well as offer reports that give valuable economic strength to any proposal
The INVEST Loddon Mallee website also provides access to relevant strategic reports and regional prospectus documents highlighting strategic investments that are of interest to public and private investors. “Council encourages all businesses located in the Gannawarra, as well as those looking to invest in the area, to visit the INVEST Loddon Mallee website,” Mr O’Reilly said. “People who want to invest in the Gannawarra are encouraged to contact our Economic Development team, who can assist with proposals and resources needed to help your project proceed.”
Case study for new initiative.
Almost $36m for Blacktown A $200 million aquatic, cultural, community and library complex in Riverstone, a $95 million basketball and volleyball hub in Rooty Hill, a $30 million regional netball and multi-sports centre in Schofields, and a $20 million First Nations Cultural Centre at Mount Druitt – these are just some of the projects Blacktown City Council is hoping to fund from the WestInvest grant program.
Diving on the Gold Coast.
Wonder Reef opened The Gold Coast’s newest dive site Wonder Reef, an innovative fusion of art, science and engineering design, has officially opened. Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the experience was out of this world and he can see why this project has divers from all corners of the globe excited. “It is just an amazing experience – the marine life is as good as what you’ll see at any other dive site. The coral is thriving, and the sculptures are just mesmerising.” “Renewing our tourism products and attractions is vital if we want to keep our title as Australia’s tourism capital – and believe me this is something special.” The reef consists of nine giant buoyant reef sculptures, home to hundreds of different marine life species including lobsters, octopus, tropical fish, turtles, and giant gropers. Coral was planted at the site in late 2021 and has created a colourful experience on the reef where locals and tourists can dive to a depth of 30 metres – all within a 10-minute boat trip from the Gold Coast Seaway. The Wonder Reef ecotourism attraction is the world’s first buoyant reef and adds to the 10 other dive sites located on the Gold Coast Dive Trail. Wonder Reef has been created with the natural environment in mind and will inspire a greater appreciation of the environment as it evolves into a significant marine habitat. The project is a joint initiative between City of Gold Coast and the Queensland Government. 20 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
Blacktown City Council has been allocated $34.548 million as part of the $400 million WestInvest allocation directly to 15 Western Sydney Councils. Council has now submitted designs and costings for approval for 16 projects to be covered by this funding. Blacktown City Council is seeking a further $647 million for 12 major infrastructure projects for consideration under WestInvest’s $1.6 billion community grants program. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said that WestInvest will fund and deliver transformation projects that will enhance communities and create jobs throughout Western Sydney. “Blacktown City is the biggest council area by population in NSW - and the fastest growing. We have the greatest community infrastructure needs due to the massive residential development in suburbs such as Marsden Park, Schofields and Riverstone, and the economic and social disadvantage in some areas of our City. Blacktown City, along with other rapidly growing cities in Western Sydney, is badly in need of funding support for community infrastructure. “Our Council is now involved in a competitive bidding process for funding the 12 major projects with the 14 other Western Sydney councils. “Our Council’s 12 major projects have been identified after extensive community consultation, and I sincerely hope that the process for selecting the projects to be funded will be transparent and free from the
Artists impression of the proposed First Nations Cultural Centre, Mt Druitt. political favouritism that has been so widely criticised in the past. “Council will make sure we use these funds wisely to provide the greatest benefit for our residents and the environment,” Mayor Bleasdale said. Among the projects Council has prioritised for funding from its direct allocation is a $27 million transformation of the Mount Druitt Town Centre. This project proposes a range of improvements to the heart of Mount Druitt, with a potential expansion of the Mount Druitt Hub, upgrades to Dawson Mall and Kevin Betts Stadium. Council is seeking $1.3 million from its WestInvest allocation for the construction of a splash pad and heating of the outdoor pool at the Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre in Emerton. Ashley Brown Reserve in Lalor Park is set to be refurbished, with a new playground, paths and improved seating and access, while Rosenthal Park in Doonside will be al-
located $1 million for improvements including multi-purpose court areas, picnic areas, seating, tree planting and new pathways. Heading Council’s list of the 12 major infrastructure projects for consideration under WestInvest’s $1.6 billion community grants program is the proposed construction of a $232 million community resource hub and aquatic facility at Riverstone. The proposal includes a state-of-the-art library, aquatic centre, indoor recreation facility, cultural and performance space, community hall, family areas and a cafe. A $95 million NSW Basketball and Volleyball Hub at May Cowper Reserve, Rooty Hill is also up for funding consideration. This regional sports hub will include 12 indoor courts, including a show court with seating for 3,000 people. There would also be six outdoor beach volleyball courts and outdoor seating, in addition to facilities for high performance training and the media. The site would also house the Basketball NSW and Volleyball NSW head offices. Council has joined with community organisations to seek funding for construction of $20 million First Nations Cultural Centre at Mount Druitt. The Cultural Centre would provide a community hub with dedicated spaces to deliver cultural programs and promote connectedness, wellbeing and support economic selfdetermination. A team of First Nations experts and knowledge holders would lead the design and purpose of the facility.
Top honours for Burnside team The City of Burnside took out first place in this year’s Australasian Management Challenge, competing against 10 other South Australian councils. The Challenge is a simulation-based, leadership and team building exercise which recreates real local government scenarios within a unique one-day ‘pressure cooker’ environment. Teams who enter the Challenge face the types of issues a senior management team in a council would likely face, and this provides a unique opportunity for the development of teamwork, leadership, collaboration, research, problem solving and many other skills. The City of Burnside’s team faced many weeks of behind-the-scenes training from experienced mentors so that they were well equipped for the challenge day. According to Burnside Co-captain Andrew Gurr, the Team consisted of six participants
representing a diverse range of teams within Council. “It was an amazing honour to win this year’s South Australian Management Challenge,” Andrew said. “The many months of training and the challenge day itself were exceptionally hard work for all of us, but the skills and confidence we developed together has made every moment worth it. “This challenge has been a wonderful professional development opportunity for us and I recommend anybody working within local government to give it a try. I’m so proud of my teammates and it has been a privilege to earn this win with them. This challenge has pushed us to achieve great things and I’m excited to see how much more we can learn together.”
Winners are grinners. From left, Dr Phil Roetman, Barry Cant (mentor), Darren Baynes, Matt Deckert, Andrew Gurr and Michelle Toft (co-captains), Michelle Kennedy (mentor) Chris Cowley (CEO). (absent Jaclyn Caskey). LGFOCUS.COM.AU
FOCUS ON FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
Old pipes restored
New plan adopted
Thirty-year-old plus drainage pipes are being re-lined by the City of Gosnells to prevent corrosion and blockages. The City of Joondalup The re-lining process involves inserting a it was really important that the City looked at Council has endorsed the The $366,000 project is vital to maintaining the cloth-infused slip-liner which is inflated into the innovative ways to maintain and improve drain- new 10-Year Strategic City’s drainage system. In recent years, the intrusion of tree roots drainage pipe and then cured using UV radia- age pipes in the area. “This process causes less disruption to Community Plan, Joondalup and other materials has blocked the pipes, tion to restore the inside of the drain and make the community and, these drain pipes will be leading to localised flooding and the need for it structurally sound. 2032, and the updated FiveCity of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes said brought back to a new condition,” she said. frequent maintenance. Year Corporate Business Plan at its June meeting.
Hollingsworth and Ainsworth at the base of the tower.
Light shines from Rocky Hill The beacon atop the Rocky Hill War Memorial will once again shine over the Goulburn district, following a year-long project to refurbish the light. A crane loomed over the Memorial early on Tuesday morning as the new LED beacon light was installed at the top of the tower, with the original beacon removed to be placed into storage as a long-serving Memorial artefact. The iconic structure’s rotating light has swept over the city since its installation on the Memorial in 1936 as an aircraft navigational aid. Goulburn Mulwaree Council’s Museums Coordinator Kerry Ross has uncovered correspondence showing the Council purchased the light from the Commonwealth Department of Aviation in 1956, after electronic navigational aids led to its redundancy. “By the mid-fifties the beacon had become synonymous with the commemorative function of the Memorial,” Mrs Ross said. “When it was decommissioned by the Department, local community members and organisations lobbied for it to be switched back on. It continues to be an important community landmark to this day.” Restoration works on the beacon were first undertaken in the 1990s when the motor failed. An identical beacon was located in Victoria and transported to Goulburn, where the motor was removed and placed into the existing beacon. The casing of the second beacon was stored offsite. More recently the original beacon finally reached its end of life with the light bulbs no longer manufactured and spare parts increasingly rare. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob said that in total more than 1,500 community members shared their views with the City. “This makes Joondalup 2032 a true community document,” Mayor Jacob said. “It is a 10-Year Strategic Community Plan that articulates a shared vision for the future of the City of Joondalup. “The Plan is our highest-level planning document, sitting within a detailed Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework which includes comprehensive Informing, Resourcing, Planning and Reporting components.” The Five-Year Corporate Business Plan is for the period from 2022/23 to 2026/27. “In developing this medium-term Plan, we have reviewed our existing Plan and realigned this to the new 10-Year Strategic Community Plan,” Mayor Jacob said. “Whilst the 10-Year Strategic Community Plan articulates the overall vision and aspirations of the community over the next 10 years, the 5-Year Corporate Business Plan provides the operational detail, including the priorities, services, projects and activities that we will deliver to meet the longer-term vision of Joondalup 2032. “The Five-Year Corporate Business Plan provides clear quarterly milestones for the next financial year, as well as listing the annual performance measures to be reported through the Annual Report. “The 10-Year Strategic Community Plan and the 5-Year Corporate Business Plan provide the high-level strategic direction to guide decision making over the next decade, and we are confident that they reflect the views of the community, meet all statutory requirements, and showcase best practice corporate reporting.” Joondalup 2032 represents the culmination of extensive community consultation and research which commenced in early-2020, including: meetings of the City’s Strategic Community Reference Group; a community survey with 841 respondents; 10 community workshops; polling at 4 City events; Elected Members workshops/sessions; and written submissions on the draft plan. Both Joondalup 2032 and the Five-Year Corporate Business Plan can be viewed at the City’s website, joondalup.wa.gov.au.
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Managing Director Ken Ainsworth and Workshop Foreman Matt Picker. Matt completed the modifications to the beacon. The second beacon casing underwent a major transformation in the past year, jointly funded by a $10,000 grant from the NSW Department of Veterans’ Affairs Community War Memorial Fund, and Goulburn Mulwaree Council. Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said Rocky Hill’s beacon is significant to the the Goulburn region and its revival is momentous.
Cranes and JDY Electrical worked together to install the refurbished beacon on Tuesday morning. Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Cr Peter Walker said the beacon’s return to the Memorial, which opened in 1925 to commemorate the First World War, would be warmly welcomed by the city’s residents. “For years, residents driving back towards Goulburn at night have looked for the beacon shining across the sky,” Cr Walker said.
Nat Sharman - Infrastructure Management Services (pictured with Director Governance and Strategy, Jamie Parry) - after winning the Customer Service Excellence Award– Individual Category, $500 prize at the recent City of Joondalup council awards. July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 21
FOCUS ON FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
Ten-year approach to managing water A new Catchment Water Quality Strategic Plan 2022 – 2032 guiding Council and its stakeholders to better manage water quality entering streams and water reservoirs is now on public exhibition for community feedback. Scooter trial proves successful. The Catchment Water Quality Strategic Plan 2022 – 2032 has been developed by Council in consultation with community members and stakeholders, to provide a roadmap to enhance water quality in reservoirs and river sources across the Armidale region, and address issues identified in water risk assessments conducted in 2019 and 2021. Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland said the strategic plan includes a broad range of goals and priority projects to be implemented over the next 10 years to deliver healthier river systems and water catchments outcomes for the benefit of town water supplies. “While we can treat and disinfect water to improve its quality to meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, it’s important to monitor and regulate water flowing into our catchments and prevent contamination at the source,” Mayor Coupland said. “We need to ensure our river streams have minimal impurity and promote collaborative initiatives for healthier water for our people, our communities and our natural environment.” Goals and initiatives outlined in the Catchment Water Quality Strategic Plan 2022 – 2032 include reducing erosion and pollution from industry, limiting stock access to waterways, minimise leakage from onsite effluent management infrastructure, creating awareness around appropriate fertiliser and agrichemical use, and promoting increased ground and tree cover. “We also need to recognise that climate change may lead to increased drought and
Scooter to work Hireable E-scooters have been a hit, especially with younger Hervey Bay residents getting to work according to a recent survey.
Gara River. heavy rain events, and consider pressures of population growth, all of which impact catchment water quality, and how to best manage our water systems during those extreme times,” concluded Mayor Coupland.
The 10-year plan sets out a vision, goals and actions for Council and stakeholders to adopt a targeted approach and guide strategic improvements for better water quality in the Armidale Regional Local Government Area.
Award-winning Rye wetlands Rye Coastal Wetland has been awarded the Stormwater Victoria Industry Award 2022 for ‘Infrastructure Excellence’. The award recognises excellence in stormwater infrastructure projects that have been delivered and are now operational. This project was funded by Mornington Peninsula Shire, the Victorian Government (Port Philip Bay Fund) and Melbourne Water (Liveable Communities Liveable Waterways Program), and was initiated by discussion between the Shire and Rye Community Group Alliance. “This is the first project of its kind on the Peninsula. We are incredibly proud to be leading the way in stormwater manage-
ment through our first coastal bio infiltration basin,” Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh said. “This project not only delivered an amazing asset on our foreshore that cleans the water entering Port Phillip Bay but has been exemplary in showing collaboration between many different government departments/ grant programs, consultants, local community and Shire teams.” Nepean Ward Councillor Sarah Race said the first coastal bio infiltration basin (also known as a coastal wetland) at the Rye fore-
shore is the largest stormwater treatment asset in a coastal environment on the Peninsula. “This project improves the water quality directly into Port Philip Bay, not only making it safer for our community but also the overall environmental health of the water and marine wildlife,” she said. The community driven project overcame significant challenges, including: sand migration, high tides, storm surges, and high groundwater levels, to produce a highly effective natural filtration system treating the stormwater prior to reaching the Bay.
Greater connection for river The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has just completed construction of two new sections of pathway within the townsite of Margaret River thanks to grant funding from the Department of Transport. Sustainable Development and Infrastructure Director Nick Logan said the work included a path at the Bussell Highway from Shell Petrol Station to Edge of the Forest Motel in concrete (2m wide) and another from Leschenaultia Avenue to Wadandi Track alongside Andrews Way and Wilkes Road in concrete and compacted gravel (2m wide). “Western Australian Bicycle Network (WABN) grants provide an opportunity to address the missing links in our townsite pathway networks, through the availability to gain financial support for planning, design and construction,” he said. The Western Australian Bicycle Network Grants Program is a State funded initiative, administered by the Department of Transport. 22 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS July 2022
The Program is aimed at assisting local governments with the planning and implementation of local bike networks. Through this grant scheme the State Government matches funds with local governments who have successfully applied for the funding to assist with planning, design, and construction of bike riding infrastructure. These projects help to connect Margaret River town centre to the Old Settlement, Rotary Park and attractions and accommodation located to the north of Rotary Park as well as residential areas to Wadandi Track. In alignment with the Western Australian Bike Network (WABN) objectives these projects support increased safety for people on bikes, connection and access to strategic destinations and increased cycle tourism opportunities.
A section of the new pathway near Bussell Highway.
Residents were polled following a sixmonth trial of e-scooters in the Bay by international company Bird. It was found that the scooters were the main mode of transport for 18 to 24-year-old residents. Following the trial and analysis of community feedback, Fraser Coast Regional Council are set to call for tenders in a bid to award a commercial permit for the ongoing operation of the e-scooter rentals. “E-scooters offer a low-cost, environmentally friendly transport alternative and also lead to a reduction in traffic,” Cr Zane O’Keefe said. “Since the trial started in July 2021, Bird registered more than 50,000 rides in Hervey Bay, with close to one in five residents using an e-scooter during the trial.” The next step is to call for companies interested in operating an e-scooter rental business on the Fraser Coast to tender a permit to operate. “The tender conditions would take into account feedback we received following the trial, including ways to increase the number of riders wearing helmets and the orderly parking of scooters,” Cr O’Keefe said. “Personal mobility devices, including e-scooters, are rising in popularity in Australia, and Queensland legislation already allows the use of privately owned e-scooters on the Fraser Coast. “While rider behaviour was mentioned in the feedback, there are solutions to reduce these issues.” The permit would be for 12-months with the potential for a two-year extension. It would specify the number of scooters allowed, operating speed in built up areas as well as the locations where rental e-scooters can operate. Applicants would need to address concerns regarding rider behaviour and safety as well as outline locations for permanent scooter parking and ways to better enforce helmet wearing. “Access to affordable and flexible transport options will help more people in this age group get to education facilities, job interviews and jobs which will help address local labour shortages,” Cr O’Keefe said. “They also improve tourists’ ability to travel between businesses and to enjoy the local attractions.” Feedback identified several concerns such as parking scooters in inappropriate locations, the instability of the scooters which were regularly found lying on the ground and riders not using helmets.” Some residents used the rental escooters as their main method of transport around Hervey Bay. LGFOCUS.COM.AU
FOCUS ON FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
Win for Cobar build The revitalised museum and visitor information centre in the far-western NSW town of Cobar has taken out the top prize at the state’s National Trust Heritage Awards held at Doltone House in Sydney on Friday 13 May. The building took out the Judges Choice Award for Dunn and Hillam Architects and Cobar Shire Council. The Great Cobar Museum and Visitor Information Centre also won the Conservation – Built Heritage Award and was Highly Commended in the Conservation – Interiors and Objects category, with the jury calling it “an incredible regional project that has completely revived the significant heritage building”. Mayor Peter Abbott said he was proud of the work both the council staff and the architects have done in producing a first class experience for both our visitors and the local community “This project has defiantly put Cobar on the map,” he said. Dunn and Hillam architect and director Ashley Dunn said that the project presented some significant challenges for the architectural team, which is based in Sydney and specialises in civic, heritage and community buildings for clients in cities and regional towns. “We spend a lot of time carefully looking and documenting the condition of the heritage buildings we work with,” Ashley says. “That means we can understand the first priorities in terms of conservation. “We look for damaged building fabric so we know where our attention is most needed; we search out elements of the building that might have been forgotten or covered over; and we
The mayor and architects celebrate. elicit all the stories about how the building has changed over time, and the people associated with each stage of its life. “This intensive process enables the future design and purpose to emerge organically from our research and observations, in response to the client’s brief and budget.” As well as being lauded by the National Trust Awards as the most impressive project in the state, the $2.8m project breathed new life into the building which was originally the headquarters of the Great Cobar Mining Company in 1910, later used as a boarding house, and converted into the town’s museum in the 1980s. “The design has completely changed the way we think about our museum, by restoring the beautiful building and allowing it to be properly seen and appreciated for the first time in decades,” Great Cobar Museum Curator Kay Stingemore said.
“The new floorplan – which offers a coherent flow through the interpretive exhibitions – means we can tell different stories that engage our various visitors in new ways. “It has also changed the way we work, giving us more space and a much healthier environment.” The Cobar Shire Council – which commissioned the project and has since engaged Dunn and Hillam Architects to work on its youth centre, childcare centre, showgrounds and the museum’s second stage – has been delighted with the community’s response to the new facilities. “From an operational point of view, Council is overjoyed.” Cobar Tourism Manager Demi Smith said. “In the first three months of the Museum and Visitors Information Centre opening, we had till takings that equalled the entire annual takings of the previous year prior to renovation, which represented a 400 per cent increase in revenue. “And from a staffing point of view, the staff are really comfortable and proud of their new workplace and community asset.” “We have had a huge amount of community interest in holding functions in this new asset for the town.” The National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards is an annual celebration of outstanding practice in the field of heritage, awarding excellence in conservation, protection, and interpretation of Aboriginal, built, natural and cultural heritage over the past year.
Monitoring tech protects health The Culburra oyster farms provide coastal protection, food and jobs for the Shoalhaven community. Oysters act as natural filters removing contaminants from the water, but if taken from water polluted by sewerage, they can cause serious food poisoning and wreak havoc on the local oyster industry. With a sewer line running adjacent to the oyster farms, overflow is a real and serious threat, particularly after heavy rainfall. A blockage or ‘choking’ in the pipeline can result in sewage spilling into the river system and that means a three-week mandatory shutdown for the local industry, and is also a breach of environmental regulations. So what to do about a sewer line that has the potential to bring down local businesses and the tourism industry? Shoalhaven Water engineers have devised a remote monitoring solution where a sensor (‘float switch’) is installed in manholes to detect the level of water in the pipes. The sensor is connected to a wireless device, relaying data via an antenna through the concrete lid of the manhole.
Shoalhaven Water workers are sent an SMS and email if the water level in the manhole reaches the height of the sensor - signalling that a blockage may have occurred. Workers immediately rally to site, clear the pipeline and avoid sewage overflow. Engineer Michael Broderick, said monitoring wastewater assets across a very large region has always been a challenge. “Thanks to this technology, we are taking a preventative rather than reactive approach to overflow management,” said Michael. “Real-time alarming and remote technology means improved water services for our residents as well as benefits for the environment.
“The new monitoring method is simple and cost effective at just $350 per site.” Michael said Shoalhaven Water is focussing on expanding current projects, rolling out the remote monitoring solutions across the Shoalhaven including more sewer pipelines, in pressure reducing valves (to monitor water pressure fluctuations) and in smart rubbish bins. He credits LoRaWan (low-power wide-area network) technology which wirelessly connects devices to the internet and is designed for sensors that need to send small amounts of data over long distances. “We now have the capability to see network interactions between assets, building a holistic understanding of our wastewater collection.”
Investing in the future for youth Young people in Geraldton now have a dedicated space of their own after the City of Greater Geraldton recently purchased a former gym - Club Rocky’s. Over the next couple of months, slight renovations will be made to transform the building into a more suitable space for young people. City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn is delighted with the acquisition. “We’re investing in the future of our community by developing a safe space for young people to come together locally,” he said. “The purchase of this building makes sense on so many levels – its proximity to the Geraldton PCYC who we have a great relationship with, the Wonthella Skate Park as well as the Geraldton Aquarena. “All of these facilities are heavily visited by our community and we’re looking to transform the area into a zone for young people to get together safely and positively after school and during the holidays.” The new site will allow the City to increase LGFOCUS.COM.AU
the programs currently delivered and build upon the popular School Holiday Program, which engages a variety of young people in both Geraldton and Mullewa. “Our five-year vision for the building and area is for it to be a fun, vibrant and safe space. Some immediate upgrades are required but we will do more extensive works over the next few years,” added Mayor Van Styn. The acquisition links back to the City’s Strategic Community Plan and delivering on the community’s vision for spaces, places, programs and services that foster connection and inclusion as well as more activities for young people to be involved in. Acting Director of Community Services Fiona Norling, City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn, Acting Coordinator of Youth Development Lydia Young at the new site.
A backhoe removing debris in the Kangaroo Valley following heavy rains in July 2022.
Disaster recovery effort The Shoalhaven region on the NSW south coast has been hit by devastating bushfires, floods and now faces the challenge of ongoing repairs to roads and infrastructure. With a fleet of more than 700 registered vehicles and plant items, they’ve been able to call up upon the right machine for the job. The backhoe for instance – perfect for both digging and moving dirt and debris around - has been pivotal to clearing landslips after months of heavy rains and floods. Needless to say, good fleet has never been more critical. Landfill compactors, material handlers, excavators, backhoes, trucks, lawnmowers, trailers and utes, in addition to motor vehicles, provides the large council with a readily available reserve. Mark Andriske, Unit Manager – Mechanical and Fleet, helps manage one of the largest and most diverse fleets in the state. “We’re one of the few councils that manages our own landfill sites plus water and sewerage services via Shoalhaven Water,” Mark said. “We also span 4500 square kilometres from mountains to sea, so we need a varied fleet for both day-to-day maintenance and major projects.” Mark said Council has 21 mechanics on staff, providing a 24-hour maintenance cycle. “With current supply chain issues on the back of COVID, maintenance is critical while there are long delays and high demand for major plant machinery,” said Mark. “The recent floods and record rainfall also means finding new solutions to the way we repair our 1700 km roads in the region. I’m currently researching a range of alternative pothole repair machines that will help our crews be more effective. “It’s been a challenging few years, but our fleet has been pivotal in helping us through the times of crisis.” July 2022 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS 23
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