LG Focus - September 2023

Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper

River wetlands flourish

City of South Perth Mayor Greg Milner said the project was made possible by a $120,000 grant from the Swan Canning River Recovery stage three, supported by Perth NRM through funding from the Australian Government.

“The grant has enabled the city to grow 60,000 native seedlings at our Como nursery, which local volunteers and community groups have helped to plant at events such as National Tree Day,” he said.

Story page 19

Bump in the road

Federal funding to local government isn’t keeping up with soaring construction costs, according to preliminary research presented by the Grattan Institute at ALGA’s 2023 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress in Canberra.

ALGA President Councillor Linda Scott said councils collectively manage around 75 per cent of Australia’s road network by length while collecting less than four per cent of national taxation.

“Our first keynote presentation at this year’s Congress was delivered by Natasha Bradshaw from the Grattan Institute, who presented preliminary results from their research into local road funding,” said Cr Scott.

“The research shows that over the past 20 years federal Financial Assistance Grants have failed to keep pace with the rising costs of constructing and maintaining roads.

“Soaring construction costs are also erod-

ing the buying power of Roads to Recovery funding, which is not indexed to account for inflation, meaning councils are constrained in the roads they can fix and maintain.

“The Grattan Institute’s preliminary findings also confirm regional, rural and remote councils face additional and sometimes insurmountable difficulties, due to smaller ratepayer bases, larger geographical areas, and less staff.

“In fact, the cost per person to maintain sealed roads is up to five times higher in regional and remote communities compared to metropolitan areas.”

Ms Bradshaw’s keynote presentation was followed by a panel discussion which also in-

Supporting a secure, stable and sustainable energy system for the future

cluded ALGA Vice President and Gladstone Mayor Matt Burnett and IPWEA NSW and ACT CEO and former NSW Transport Minister the Hon David Elliott, which covered the issues of road funding, congestion and natural disasters.

“We look forward to the official release of the Grattan Institute’s findings and recommendations later this year, and ALGA will continue to advocate for the funding we need to deliver and maintain safer local roads for our communities,” said Cr Scott.

“Increasing Financial Assistance Grants to at least one per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue is vital to enable all councils to maintain our local roads to a better, more re-

silient standard.

“We also want to see the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery funding increased from $500 million to $800 million per year, and this funding indexed annually to keep pace with rising construction costs.

“ALGA’s recent analysis estimated the cost of flood-damaged roads in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia is in the vicinity of $3.8 billion, so we need urgent support from all levels of Government to fix these roads as soon as possible and help us build them back better.”

Three years of environmental restoration works have recently been completed to successfully rehabilitate four hectares of wetlands along the Canning River.

The team.

Potholes

It is good to see the condition of road surfaces and future proofing road infrastructure being taken seriously. With predictions of the hottest weather on the planet and a proliferation of storms in recent weeks finding a road mix that can withstand climate change has surely moved from a time, manhour and funding drain to becoming essential.

You only need to sign on to the nearest community facebook group with their proliferation of pot-hole memes and complaints threads to know that many in our communities consider it a major failing of their local council (through no fault of their own) that potholes keep appearing. Australian’s are very dependent on their road system and the amount of damage and it’s frequency must surely be a drain on council coffers as well as being potentially dangerous.

- Tania Phillips

INSIDE THIS EDITION

MAYORAL PROFILES 4

THE GOOD OIL 6

Funds flow

CONTACT US

Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper

Website: LGFocus.com.au

Noosa Office:

Telephone: (07) 5455 6946

Address: 36 Mary Street, Noosaville Qld 4566

Pakenham Office:

Telephone: (03) 5945 0666

Address: 10 Army Road, Pakenham VIC 3810

Network with LG Focus twitter.com/@LGFocusau facebook.com/LocalGovernmentFocus

Editorial:

E: editorial@LGFocus.com.au

Advertising:

E: advertising@LGFocus.com.au

Classifieds:

P: 1300 666 808

E: sales@NetworkClassifieds.com.au

EDITORIAL

Tania Phillips Journalist

E: tania.phillips@StarNewsGroup.com.au

ADVERTISING

Michelle Gibson Sales Executive

E: michelle.gibson@StarNewsGroup.com.au

P: 07 5292 5304

M: 0413 608 678

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/

DIARY DATES

IPWEA-QNT Annual Conference

10-12 October 2023

Gold Coast Turf Club Aquis Park

Expand your knowledge, connect with industry professionals and be inspired by thought leaders in the sector. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or new to the public works sector, this conference is designed to empower and enrich your professional journey.

Sewage and Water Treatment Plant Energy Efficiency

12 October 10am - 11.30am

AUS Eastern Summer Time

Interactive webcast presented by LGNSW

Learn about the interactive energy efficiency opportunities toolkit to assess the feasibility of actions for water and wastewater treatment plants.

This fifth and final webinar in the 2023

Net Zero series discusses the interactive energy efficiency opportunities toolkit which enables site specific details to assess the feasibility of actions for water and sewage treatment plants. To assist councils on their path to net zero, the tool can also identify the sewage treatment plant size that a waste to energy project would be viable.

An additional $64 million is set to flow under Phase 4 of LRCI in South Australia, with 48 out of 74 local government areas in the state locking in funding agreements to date.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP said they were providing much needed help for high priority infrastructure.

“The Albanese Government is partnering with South Australian councils to provide them with the funding and flexibility they need to progress high-priority road and community infrastructure projects.

“By strengthening the capacity of councils to deliver these initiatives, we are supporting the creation of local jobs, improvoing road saftey, boosting economic opportunities, and advancing a range of new community experiences and positive social outcomes.

“I look forward to finalising the remaining agreements – because every grant we lock in with South Australian councils marks a forward step in delivering important projects that have lasting benefits.”

Local Government Association of South Australia chief executive, Clinton Jury believes the funding is a major boost for the state’s council’s.

“LRCI funding is a real game changer for South Australian communities,” he said.

“It is supporting councils to progress a range of diverse projects – from improved audio-visual capabilities at community halls, upgrades to surfaces at local sporting fields, and repairs to roads that have been washed away by floods.

“The additional $64 million under Phase 4 will ensure South Australian councils can continue to move from planning to delivery of projects, which is why it’s important they lock in their funding agreements as soon as possible.

“We know that the best outcomes are achieved when we work together, which is why we’ll continue to collaborate with the Federal Government on future funding arrangements for local governments – so that we can progress common objectives for South Australia.”

Those set to benefit include the District Council of Elliston, which will receive over $786,000 to support playground upgrades, construction of a new men’s shed, resealing of in-demand road networks, and improved drainage along local roads to improve safety and reduce the risk of flooding.

Yorke Peninsula Council has also locked in their funding agreement, and will receive over $1.4 million to upgrade the unsealed North Coast Road – which will reduce its long-term maintenance, and make it easier for tourists to explore the area and invest in local businesses.

The City of Marion Council will receive

over $1 million under Phase 4, including over $500,000 towards renewing the footpath and landscaping on Raglan Avenue from Marion Road toward Towers Terrace Roundabout.

The City of Burnside will replace the ageing gas pool heater at the George Bolton Swimming Centre with an all-electric heating system – helping reduce emissions, lower power bills, and inject savings to other essential community services, with over $567,000 under Phase 4.

Under Phases 1-3 of LRCI, more than 500 projects have already been completed across South Australia, with a further 51 expected to be finalised within the next year.

More than $52 million in LRCI funding flowed to South Australian councils during the 2022–23 financial year, contributing to projects such as the Community Hub and the Stebonheath Road Reconstruction at Munno Para West, floodway upgrades near Coober Pedy, and a revitalised youth precinct at Streaky Bay.

In Munno Para West, $2.8 million in funding from LRCI and more than $600,000 in funding from the Roads to Recovery program is supporting the City of Playford to reconstruct Stebonheath Road, with completion expected soon.

The $3.4 million floodway upgrades along Kempe Road and Anne Beadell Highway, near Coober Pedy in the far north of South Australia were completed in June this year to improve the resilience of the roads and keep outback township.

LRCI funding of $20,000 will enable Wudinna District Council to deliver targeted improvements to the central retail district of Wudinna township with upgraded landscaping and signage. Fully funded bythe Australian Government, this beautification project is expected to be finished in June next year.

The playground and skate parks at Streaky Bay will be refurbished and expanded to provide a safe and inclusive community youth precinct where locals and visitors can play, engage and connect with each other – with $300,000 funding through LRCI.

Of more than 1000 LRCI funded projects approved in South Australia to date, just under one third are road projects, with the rest delivering community infrastructure, or a combination of both road and community infrastructure projects.

Nationally, LRCI is currently funding more than 9,500 projects, with an additional $250 million promised by the Albanese Government at the last election, to be delivered through Phase 4 to target road projects in rural, regional and outer urban areas, on top of the previously announced $500 million.

For more information, visit investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local-initiatives/localroads-and-community-infrastructure-program

LGNSW 2023 Annual Conference

12-14 November

Grand Pavilion, Rosehill Gardens

Racecourse, Rosehill

Registration is now open with discounted early bird prices available until Thursday 28 September 2023.

Standard registrations open on Friday 29 September 2023 and close 5pm AEDT on Friday 27 October 2023. Destination host council partner is City of Parramatta.

Feature boost

Gladstone Regional Council has updated its RegionWatch dashboard to provide additional disaster-related information and alerts.

RegionWatch is council’s community online platform for reliable, up-to-date and vital information before and during emergencies and disasters.

Updates include:

· Water and Sewer Interruptions – view updates on when planned and unplanned sewer and water outages are occurring within their local area

· Links to neighbouring Councils’ dashboards – view alerts and disaster information when travelling outside the Gladstone Region or within Queensland via the drop-down list containing direct hyperlinks to several neighbouring Queensland Councils’ dashboards, including Rockhampton Regional Council, Bundaberg Regional Council, Livingstone Shire Council, Central Highlands Regional Council, North Burnett Regional Council and Banana Shire Council.

· Map – the top menu bar of the map has now been moved to the right as a side menu bar.

Visit regionwatch.gladstone.qld.gov. au

The Federal Government has announced support for South Australian Councils to help them deliver local high impact priorities programs through the $3.25 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories the Hon Kristy McBain MP. Picture: AAP IMAGE/LUKAS COCH

Project progresses

In a major milestone for the Tweed’s flood recovery, preliminary works have begun on site at the Industry Central Land Swap project in South Murwillumbah.

The innovative project aims to assist selected businesses in the high flood risk zone of South Murwillumbah to relocate to flood-free land at Lundberg Drive (Industry Central) via a land swap agreement.

Six successful applicants will be relocating following an expression of interest process. This includes council’s works depot.

Tweed Shire Council was able to acquire 14ha of suitable flood-free and appropriately zoned land at Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah and develop this into new employment land thanks to $11.3 million in funding from the NSW Government.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who was recently appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery by the NSW Government and whose electorate includes Murwillumbah, welcomed the start of construction works.

“This industrial land-swap is both a practical and creative solution to securing Murwillumbah’s long-term future as we recover from a catastrophic sequence of flood events over the past few years,” Ms Saffin said.

“The climate is changing and improving our flood preparedness by moving businesses and homes off floodplains is now of paramount importance – we know from lessons hard learned that ‘better prepared brings better recovery’.

“It’s great to see this development breaking ground and I congratulate all those involved.”

Alder Constructions was awarded the contract to undertake the design and construction of all public infrastructure at the site, including roads, stormwater, reticulated sewer, water supply and telecommunications.

Alder Constructions CEO Dean Cheffers confirmed earthworks started this week at the South Murwillumbah site, following certificate approval of the subdivision works.

“With the site now mobilised and earthworks underway, the innovative plan is one step closer to coming to fruition,” Mr Cheffers said.

“There will be lots of activity on site over the next few months with full site earthworks, sewer, stormwater and service installation, along with roadworks construction commencing this side of Christmas.”

Tweed Shire Council General Manager Troy Green welcomed the commencement of earthworks as a significant step forward in building resilience into the Tweed economy.

“We all know the devastating impact the floods of 2017 and 2022 had on all aspects of our community and businesses,” Mr Green said.

“This project will provide evidence that businesses can invest with confidence in the Tweed and is a strong sign that Council is looking at ways to adapt to the impact of climate change by providing flood-risk free, employment-generating land.”

Initiated after the devastating flood of March 2017, Mr Green said the project had progressed well until early 2020 when the onset of COVID-19 caused significant uncertainty among the business community and delayed the project.

Aviation reform

Construction has begun at the site of the new Industry Central Land Swap Project at South Murwillumbah, which will see businesses move from their current locations on the floodplain to floodfree land. To mark the occasion are from left: Dean Cheffers (Alder Constructions), Ken Sanderson (Murwillumbah Hire and Landscape Supplies), Jim Dickinson (30 Marine Parade Pty Ltd), Lyndon Poirrier (JH Williams), Ray Musgrave (Tweed Shire Council), Graham McMahon and Jenny Land (Hayes Steel), Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis.

This was further exacerbated by the 2022 flood and subsequent inflationary pressures.

“To our knowledge, an industrial land swap such as this has never been undertaken in Australia and it has proved to be an extremely complex legal and planning process – but we are excited to finally be on site today with the first earthworks underway,” Mr Green said.

“We can’t wait for the subdivision to be completed and for our first businesses to move their facilities over to this new flood-free zone.”

Following an Expression of Interest process, five Murwillumbah businesses were selected to participate in the land swap, which will see them swap their flood-prone land for flood-free land in the new industrial estate known in South Murwillumbah known as Industry Central.

The five businesses confirmed to participate in the land swap include JH Williams Pty Ltd, 30 Marine Parade Pty Ltd, North Commercial Pty Ltd (Hayes Steel), Murwillumbah Hire and Landscape Supplies and Mick Bourke Transport.

Two lots remain available to interested businesses, with a new EOI process expected in due course.

Construction works are expected to be completed by mid-2024, with creation of title for the new allotments and settlement of

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King MP.

The Green Paper marks an important stage in developing the Aviation White Paper which will set the policy direction for the aviation sector out to 2050.

“The government is seeking outcomes that deliver a more competitive aviation sector, while at the same time securing Australian jobs,” she said.

“We are also looking at stronger consumer protections, improvements to complaint handling processes and improve accessibility for consumers living with disability. “Through this process, we are also seeking to understand whether options pursued in other jurisdictionssuch as a Customer Rights Charter or a stronger ombudsman model - would deliver benefits to Australia’s aviation sector.”

She said the Green Paper also considers how to transition Australia’s aviation industry to net zero. “We committed to net zero emissions by 2050 and have already implemented new reforms to the Safeguard Mechanism requiring annual emissions reductions for Australia’s largest emitters - including our largest airlines,” Minister King said.

contacts planned to occur by December 2024.

The project is part of council’s Community Strategic Plan objective to ensure the Tweed grows and develops in a sustainable way, taking in the challenges of climate change.

It will also support the local economy to thrive and generate sustainable business opportunities into the future.

For more information on the Industry Central Land Swap project, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ industry-central

Governments team up for rebate

“Access to affordable air services are a key contributor to the liveability of regional Australia and it is essential that regional services remain viable. The Albanese Government recognises that now and over coming years, it will be critical to leverage the economic shifts underway across the world for the benefit of Australia’s regions. “We want an aviation sector that maintains Australia’s world leading safety and security standards and provides secure jobs now and into the future, a sector needs to be reliable, competitive and affordable, supported by a robust consumer rights framework.

“We encourage those who are interested to carefully consider the Green Paper and provide feedback to inform next year’s Aviation White Paper.

NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said a further rebate of up to $87.50 is available for annual water rates and up to $87.50 for annual sewerage rates, where councils provide those services.

“The NSW Government understands people are doing it tough right now, with pensioners especially vulnerable to rising cost of living,” he said.

“The rate rebates provided each year by the government and councils are an important relief measure to help ease the financial burden

of day to day living expenses for pensioners.

“Councils also have the discretion to provide and fund further rebates for pensioners should they wish to do so.

“I encourage councils to submit their concession subsidy forms to the Office of Local Government before the October deadline and take full advantage of the funding available.”

The NSW Government funds 55 per cent of the pensioner rebate, while councils pay the remaining 45 per cent. The government’s share of the funding is provided to councils, which administer the entire rebate to eligible ratepayers.

Eligibility for the pensioner concessions is

determined in accordance with the Australian Government’s policies on pensioner eligibility and income thresholds.

Eligible pensioners across NSW can now apply for a rebate on their council rates to help with the rising cost of living, while councils are also urged to take full advantage of available funding. An annual concession of up to $250 per property is available to pensioners for ordinary rates and domestic waste charges.

A range of further savings and support is available from the Government to help ease the cost of living for NSW pensioners.

More information can be found on the Savings Finder page of the Service NSW website: service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/savingsfinder#seniors

Applications for payment of the Pensioner Concession Subsidy to local councils are now open. Councils have until Friday 6 October 2023 to submit their claims covering concessions provided to pensioners for the 2023-24 year.

“The White Paper will enable long-term investment, underpin the maintenance and improvement of our internationallyenviable safety record, and articulate clear commitments to consumers and communities that rely on aviation. “The government is considering the recommendations from the Review of the Sydney Airport Demand Management Scheme, an independent review prepared by Mr Peter Harris AO. “We have recently concluded targeted consultation regarding potential changes to the Scheme, with a particular eye to modernising the slot allocation framework and strengthening compliance measures to ensure that slots are not being misused by airlines. I will have more announcements to make about these reforms in due course.”

To read the Aviation Green Paper visit infrastructure.gov.au/aviation-green-paper-towards-2050 To have your say, visit infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say or email aviationgreenpaper@infrastructure. gov.au

The Federal Government has taken the next step towards reforming Australia’s aviation sector, releasing the Aviation Green Paper and calling for feedback from the community and the sector according to

A bird’s eye view of the site of the Industry Central Land Swap project at South Murwillumbah which remained above the flood level at the 2022 flood.

Plan for population boom

By Mayor Glenn Docherty

Seven people are making Playford their home each day with a current population of over 105,000 people which is set to soar to 149,000 by 2041.

There are new housing estates in suburbs across the city and once semi-rural towns are being transformed by residential growth. In Playford’s north-west, the suburb of Riverlea Park is welcoming its first residents in what is predicted to become a community of over 30,000 people – South Australia’s largest land development to date.

While growth brings vibrancy and diversity, it also brings challenges such as increased traffic and road use.

By contrast, Playford’s older and more established suburbs built since the 1950s that are renewed on a cyclical basis as infrastructure approaches its end of life. There is demand on council to ensure it equitably funds growth areas and addresses the effects of growth on our roads, while ensuring our existing communities are renewed.

In 2023/24, $11.5m has been allocated for road and kerb renewal, distributed over approximately 60 roads across the council area.

To balance growth and renewal and with over 900km of roads, City of Playford takes a longterm approach to road management. This is formalised through city-wide strategies that feed into our four-year work plans and Strategic Asset Management Plan. At the heart of this planning are the needs and aspirations of our diverse community and what we hear them

say is important when it comes to safety and ease of use on local roads. No forward planning occurs without close consultation with the Elected Members and community. Their ability to influence our work is facilitated in an authentic and genuine environment where we close the loop and keep our community informed of our decision making. We make it clear that council’s resources are finite.

Over coming months, a number of major projects to bring rural roads to an urban standard in rapidly growing communities will be complete. This includes Stebonheath Road, Heaslip Road, Angle Vale and the main street of Virginia (Old Port Wakefield Road). These are roads that will not only look better with improved streetscapes but will also foster a safer and more connected local community.

While the City of Playford is on a good trajectory with its road management and renewal program, it is vital to maintain and build strong and effective partnerships for co-investment by State and Federal Government to respond to growth and unlock the full potential of our region.

In 2022/23, City of Playford leveraged over $8m of external funding for a variety of major projects including funding from the Federal Government via South Australia’s Black Spot program to address the poor safety record of one of Playford’s road intersections.

Moving forward council will continue to work with and advocate to all tiers of government to improve Playford’s road network for our fast-growing community.

Exploring the beauty of Etheridge Shire

Etheridge Shire sits centrally at the bottom of the Gulf of Carpentaria encompassing the headwaters of the big gulf river systems such as the Gilbert, Einasleigh, Etheridge, Robinson and Copperfield Rivers.

By Mayor Barry Hughes

Untainted wilderness is a hallmark of the 40,000 square kilometres lending itself to pristine environments along these rivers and the mountains that include the Gregory and Newcastle Ranges. Etheridge Shire has long proud history based on gold and beef cattle production and lately tourism and eco-tourism.

Four communities are central to the dynamics of Etheridge Shire. These towns are pivotal in servicing the pastoral, mining and tourism industry and all are an open book in terms of their history and contribution to the life and times of Etheridge Shire.

Mt Surprise, Einasleigh and Forsayth are situated on the rail line that starts its journey in Cairns and finishes in Forsayth and services the tourist industry only these days. Georgetown is the business centre of the Shire and is the headquarters of the Etheridge Shire Council. Sandstone escarpments along the Gilbert and Robertson Rivers are the custodians of centuries of indigenous history, where today tourism ventures such as Cobbold Gorge Tours and Rungulla National Park are the viewing glass for those who are drawn to such ancient and compelling landscapes.

Precious gems

The diversity that is on offer throughout the Etheridge Shire makes it a must visit destination for the tourism fraternity. Here you can still find gold with your trusty detector across the ridges that led to the Gilberton and Etheridge gold rushes in the late 1800s and early 1900s. O’Brien’s Creek Gemfields offers precious gems such as topaz, garnets, aquamarine, and citrine. Undara Lava Tubes give a snapshot of life in the volcanic age while Talaroo Hot Springs offers the warm mineralised waters to be enjoyed as a swim or a soak in the pools adjacent to the campgrounds.

From little things

My interest in the political arena started very young as a 15-year-old student at an agricul-

tural boarding school known as St Barnabas on the Atherton Tablelands. Here as School Captain, I was asked to lead the debating team to compete across the region against vastly more experienced schools than a bunch of country kids mostly from large cattle

stations dotted across Northern Australia. It was here that I became aware of the power of words and if used correctly how they can be very constructive. I moved on to College and joined the Student Council Committee and realised that words alone were not enough and

that if combined with leadership and knowledge, this was the key to providing better outcomes. With this experience tucked under my belt and becoming aware that the average age of existing councillors at Etheridge was getting up there I realised there was an opportunity to become more involved in the community other than just being on community organisations and committees. In 1991 I was voted in as a councillor on the Etheridge Shire and served three, three-year terms. The last three year term as Deputy Mayor finishing in the year 2000. It was then decided to grow our grazing business and we expanded our property portfolio which meant I needed to step away from Local Government which I always recognised as unfinished business.

Work

My wife and I run North Head Cattle Company which has been in my family for 107 years. 200,000 acres on the Gilbert River and 4000 head of cattle kept me occupied as well thrusting me into the agri-political landscape in 2013 where I found myself President of the Gulf Cattleman’s Association. This kept me in touch politically with the grazing industry all the while interacting with State and Federal Governments as well as communities across the region dealing with mental health, banking and financial issues, live export marketing opportunities, and generally advocating on behalf of the northern cattle industry to this day.

New role

In 2020 I nominated for the Mayors position and was successful in filling the role. It was certainly great to be back in the local government family after a 20-year absence. Key challenges include financial sustainability, housing and liveability, access to resources both human and materials. Etheridge is the first shire west of the Great Divide to undertake a Carbon Emissions Audit to assist in establishing a carbon neutral status. Success in local government is all about: just doing the ordinary things extremely well.

Mayor Barry Hughes.

City of Playford in the northern suburbs of Adelaide is experiencing intense population growth. The State Government’s Plan for Greater Adelaide identifies the majority of future residential and industrial growth in Adelaide will occur in Northern Adelaide and that residential growth will continue at a rapid pace for the next 20 years.

Mayor Glenn Docherty.

Winning with tech

MAV Technology Manager Jean Ciancio said:

“Acknowledging and celebrating the leaders in technology across the local government sector is an important way for MAV Technology to highlight the great work our members are doing for their staff and communities.

“Councils across the state are finding new and innovative ways to do their important work. It’s important we stop and applaud those leading the way on this front,” Ms Ciancio said.

MAV President Cr David Clark said: “Modern challenges call for modern solutions. It’s great to see councils from across the state exploring new ways to serve their communities. We’re proud to celebrate them with these awards.“

“I want to congratulate all the winners on leading the way in this space. I hope it inspires others to continue to push the boundaries in technology and strive for best practice among local government,” Cr Clark said.

Major award winners

· Customer Experience: City of Boroondara’s Digitising Hard Waste.

Hard waste collection is now organised through an app via smartphones and tablets, resulting in a more coordinated service, and the status of customer-requested collections are now updated in real time.

· Employee Experience: Melton City Council’s Labour Budget Management Solution.

The implementation of this new solution allowed Melton City to recover $10m in unspent labour budget, increase labour capitalisation from $5m to $12m in a single financial year, and extended visibility and opportunities for grant funded positions.

· Collaboration and Partnership: City of Casey’s Digital Equity Living Lab.

A novel approach to address the challenges around achieving Digital Equity in Doveton, Casey’s most digitally excluded suburb. Digital Doveton (as it became known) built confidence and understanding in digital opportunities and demonstrating new approaches to the development of customer-focused services through an innovation enabled environment.

· Emerging Technologies: City of Greater Geelong’s Protecting Grey-headed Flying Foxes.

The project protected Grey-headed Flying foxes from climate change by using IoT weather sensors and a centralised data platform to monitor environmental factors in real time and integrated water misting sprinklers to mitigate heat stress.

· Data Insights: Melton City Council’s Moving Melton Transport Prospectus.

The Moving Melton Transport Prospectus is an interactive website with compelling evidence for the road, rail, bus and active transport projects urgently needed. The website includes an interactive project map, population and travel data, and 3D renders.

· National Achievement Award: City of Sydney’s 3D Virtual Tours – Transforming the venue booking journey.

Introduced to streamline the journey and

Funding welcome

together to deliver a Council Priority Betterment Program.

The program will deliver $9.4m of funding and be available to 14 of the worst impacted councils from the October 2022 floods: Buloke, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Gannawarra, Loddon, Moira, Murrindindi, Benalla, Bendigo, Hepburn, Mildura, Pyrenees, Shepparton and Strathbogie.

MAV President Cr David Clark said councils would be thankful the calls of the MAV had been heard.

“This is a good announcement.

“As our climate changes, it’s only logical we build back disaster-hit infrastructure to a higher, more resilient standard and betterment funds like this allow councils to do so,” Cr Clark said.

“The MAV has been talking about betterment for a decade but we have been specifically asking for a betterment fund since the October 2022 floods.

“We thank the State and Federal Governments for working together to deliver

New CEO

The Board of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Crawford as its new chief executive officer.

Ms Crawford, who was most recently employed as a senior adviser to Federal Local Government Minister Kristy McBain, started her ALGA position on 28 August 2023.

ALGA President Councillor Linda Scott said Ms Crawford was selected from a strong field of candidates; and congratulated her on the appointment.

“I am delighted to welcome Amy Crawford as ALGA’s next CEO. She brings a wealth of experience to the organisation, including more than twenty years working for the Federal public service,” Cr Scott said.

“Ms Crawford has a clear understanding of ALGA’s role, and the opportunities to work creatively and collaboratively with the Federal Government for the benefit of councils and our communities.”

Ms Crawford said she was honoured to accept the role of ALGA CEO and was looking forward to working with the ALGA Board, and the organisation’s member associations who represent Australia’s 537 councils.

increase community confidence. The tours are designed to help alleviate venue suitability anxieties that lead to enquiries and in-person tour requests.

· People’s choice: Latrobe City Council’s From Insights to Impacts.

Latrobe began its data journey about two years ago, with the end goal to become a datainformed organisation, whereby the use of data and analytics will optimise service delivery and provide an improved customer experience.

“I have always admired the drive of local governments to deliver for their communities and I look forward to using my knowledge of cross-government programs and negotiations to deliver for members,” said Ms Crawford.

ALGA is the national voice of local government in Australia, representing 537 councils across the country. In structure, ALGA is a federation of State and Territory Local Government Associations.

Simplify process: SA

this important funding but note the floods caused at least $350m in damage across 63 councils, it needs to be the first of many steps in supporting our councils to build back better.

“Recovery from serious disaster damage costs significant amounts of money. Thankfully, in states like Queensland where betterment funds have been in place, we’ve seen significant savings from assets that have been rebuilt to a higher standard through the betterment fund and then been subject to subsequent disasters.”

Cr Clark noted the fund was specific to the 2022 flood event, but hoped it was a sign of more to come.

“With $9.4m announced for 14 councils, this is a modest start, but the MAV is looking at this as a first step in the right direction. We’ll continue to call for a more permanent betterment fund to be put in place.”

The LGA has used the Independent Review of Commonwealth Disaster Funding to highlight the need for greater efficiencies in the disaster funding process.

The association believes often disaster arrangements are overly complex and place unnecessary administrative burden on councils – at a time when their focus is on immediate health and safety needs of their communities.

The LGA’s submission to the review outlines the experience of South Australian councils, which have been mixed and inconsistent.

The group said federal funding for risk reduction and resilience through programs like the Disaster Ready Fund had been critical for disaster mitigation projects, helping reduce the impact of future disasters on South Australian communities. However, during emergencies councils need certainty and consistency in accessing disaster funding including clearer definitions and eligibility thresholds, a review of administrative burdens and evidentiary requirements, and simplified claims processes.

The ability for local government to recover costs when responding to disasters is essential, yet greater support and clarity is needed to support councils recover disaster costs and

build back better. The LGA maintains South Australia’s current disaster funding frameworks do not support councils in disasters due to uncertainties in cost recovery and the unreasonable financial exposure placed upon them.

“We would like to see the current damage thresholds brought into line with other state jurisdictions. Independent research has shown that South Australian councils are the least financially supported councils in Australia when it comes to recovering costs related to a natural disaster,” they said in a statement.

“Smaller councils across most other states can recover between 60 to 75 per cent of total costs incurred in relation to natural disasters under their relevant state frameworks. In South Australia, it’s about 38 per cent.

“For larger councils, South Australian councils are very limited in their ability to recover costs due to high thresholds.”

The Independent Review explores the most effective ways for the Federal Government to support communities through the funding it provides to state and territory governments, local governments, businesses and community organisations in support of natural disaster management.

After almost a year of campaigning, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is pleased to see the State and Federal Governments coming

The Local Government Association of South Australia is calling on the federal government to improve its funding model to better support communities impacted by natural disasters.

New ALGA CEO Amy Crawford.

The Local Government sector has come together to celebrate councils utlising the latest advancements in technology to enhance their services to community at MAV Technology’s Annual National Conference and Awards for Excellence on Friday, 11 August.

City of Greater Geelong’s Protecting Grey-headed Flying Foxes took out the Emerging Technologies award.

Melton City Council’s Labour Budget Management Solution took out the Employee Experience award.

City of Boroondara’s Digitising Hard Waste took out the Customer Experience award.

Qantas in the firing line

The Albanese Government now has its first black mark courtesy of the recent decision to disallow Qatar Airways’ request to fly an additional 21 flight routes to and from Australia. The decision has triggered widespread criticism of its reformist credentials, and sowed the doubts in voters’ minds about the judgement of not only the Transport Minister but the entire leadership team.

By Rod Brown

The damage is multi-layered and cumulative. It’s not just about Qantas’ eye-watering fares that have upset voters in a country so reliant on air travel e.g. Sydney to Broken Hill return flights upwards of $1300, or Melbourne to Mildura return flights at around $800.

But the regular cancellation of services to our regional cities also gets noticed. As does the declining service and poor food offerings, the slot hoarding, the mass sackings during Covid despite a $2.7 billion government grant, the tardiness on redeeming Covid travel credits, and the difficulty in using Frequent Flyer points. These are classic indicators of monopoly power.

On top of all that is the news of Albanese’ son having Captain’s Club membership. And hours later numerous politicians at Senate Estimates were smiling when CEO Joyce was reminding them of their own Chairman’s Lounge membership.

The Chairman’s Lounge membership for politicians, departmental staff, etc., is an anachronistic arrangement that must cease. It is a low-level corruption. I’ve been with Ministers and MPs in an airport when they quietly peel off to the Chairman’s Lounge. The truth of the matter is that politicians have so much attention bestowed on them by departmental officials, the media and company executives that they really do become self-important. The Chairman’s Lounge is just another perk that massages their egos. Examples of those who didn’t succumb to schmoozing are, in my experience, Michael McCormack, Tony Burke, Kristy McBain, Bob Katter (yes indeed), and ex-deputy PM Brian Howe. Strangely, Albanese keeps referring to Qantas as our national airline, which is surely now an outdated notion.

Competition policy

Andrew Leigh, Assistant Treasurer (with responsibility for competition policy), penned his thoughts in the Financial Review just prior to the

THE GOOD OIL

ROD BROWN

Qantas debacle.

“It’s hard to ignore the growing body of evidence that excessive market concentration can lead to economic problems…market concentration tells us how much share the biggest players have. But it doesn’t tell us the extent to which they’re throwing their weight around.

“By contrast, mark-ups – the gap between firms’ costs and what they charge their consumers – impact directly on consumers. Mark-ups capture the market power of firms. For example, if there’s thousands of companies selling a similar product, there’s a going price. The market sets the price. By contrast, when only one company sells the product, they set the market price. The difference is between market pricing and monopolist pricing.”

Leigh goes on to argue that monopolies are thus the source of some very significant markups, and that the evidence points to competitive pressure in the Australian economy having also declined over the past two decades. Firm entry and exit rates have also fallen. Job mobility has declined, and the largest firms have increased their market share. He concludes that the declining dynamism in both the product and labour markets has occurred simultaneously.

So what’s new, you might ask? Well with evidence like the above, you’d expect governments to be super-vigilant because of the market concentration in the telecoms, banking, energy and

Ali Wastie takes on top job at Geelong

Ms Wastie has worked in local government and the Victorian Public Service since 2004 and joined the city from the Bass Coast Shire Council after four and a half years as CEO.

She has held a number of senior leadership positions including chairing the Alpine Resorts Victoria board and holding director roles at the City of Melbourne and Yarra Ranges Council.

Ms Wastie said she was thrilled to be appointed as the City of Greater Geelong’s CEO.

“I am passionate about the important role we have in improving health and wellbeing for our residents and visitors through the provision of quality services and infrastructure,” Ms Wastie said.

“As one of Australia’s fastest growing cities, I am looking forward to supporting the mayor and councillors and leading the organisation to ensure our city realises its potential as being known as a creative and clever city on a global scale.

“Collaborating and working together with our key partners and all levels of government is a top priority of mine.”

Mayor Trent Sullivan said Ms Wastie had hit the ground running and would be an asset to the municipality.

“I’m excited to welcome Ali to both the city and our beautiful region and look forward to working with her,” Mayor Sullivan said.

“Ali starts with us at a time when our council, like others, faces economic pressures and increased demands on infrastructure from population growth.

“Backed by broad experience across multiple industries and proven leadership skills, I am confident Ali will have a positive impact on the organisation and work hard to deliver the best outcomes for the community.

“I thank Kaarina Phyland for leading the city since September last year with passion and strong leadership to ensure the organisation is more efficient and sustainable.”

supermarket sectors. It’s a tricky area. A couple of my contacts in the federal sphere say that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has been reasonably diligent in advising the federal government on transgressions under the Act, but that ministerial advisers and/or departmental chiefs have been slow to act.

Intergenerational Report

The ‘Intergenerational Report’ (IGR) released last month by the Federal Treasury has sparked widespread interest about Australia’s long-term economic and social challenges viz. population ageing, balancing federal budgets, and addressing climate change.

The report is actually a rare document within the federal sphere because it goes beyond the day-to-day workings of government. Indeed, as Liz Ritchie (Regional Australia Institute) says, the report identifies policy blind spots, especially the role that regional Australia must play in transiting to net zero emissions, and its role as the engine room for productivity growth in agriculture, mining and manufacturing.

However to my mind the IGR missed a gold-

en opportunity to ram home the need for strong policies on tax reform, urban housing supply and migration levels. These are the issues that the Morrison Government failed to address, and ushered in the current Labor Government. Dutton has a softer side

The ascension of Peter Dutton to Liberal Party leadership was seen as many as a guarantee of two electoral terms for Labor. His Grim Reaper persona was seen as a massive liability.

But, his recent effort on the ABC’s Kitchen Cabinet was a huge turnaround in his image –he oozed honesty, empathy and wisdom. He was acting like a Labrador. My contacts say that Dutton’s performance has buoyed the Libs, and the Albanese camp would surely now be cogitating on things. An added problem for the ALP and indeed the coalition is that the Independents – Spender, Steggall, Chaney, Ryan, Daniel, Pocock etc. - are all addressing the big issues and carving out niches that augur well for their futures. It was refreshing to see Spender recently announcing the convening of a think tank on taxation reform with experts like Ken Henry. Even the Bush seats are no longer the preserve of the Nationals.

Ned Kelly lives on News has arrived about Glenrowan’s new Ned Kelly Centre, designed to interpret his last stand. The cost was $5.5 million with the bulk coming from the Victorian Government and the balance from the local council.

The project idea had been around for some 12 years – the breakthrough came when the Victorian Government announced a funding program to help rural areas recover from Covid. The project still had to meet the project criteria against competition. Moral of the story? Be persistent, as the late federal Minister Simon Crean used to say.

Rod Brown is a Canberra-based lobbyist specialising in industry/regional development. Email apdcockatoo@iprimus.com.au

Councillor’s work won’t be forgotten

City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin has thanked Councillor Bianca Sandri following her resignation as Councillor in the City’s Inglewood Ward.

Councillor Sandri, whose resignation takes effect from 21 October, has represented the Inglewood Ward since 2017 and was Deputy Mayor at the City of Stirling between 2019-2021.

“Bianca is a fantastic example of a true professional, completely committed to getting the best possible outcomes for her community as an Elected Member,” Mayor Irwin said.

“With that in mind, I know that the decision to resign from the City of Stirling council, where she has achieved a tremendous amount, would not have been an easy one.

“Bianca is an accomplished businessperson and a talented planner. She has a proven track record and has been recognised as a former winner of the 40 Under 40 Award.

“The award which recognised her work co-founding a town planning agency, and her extensive contributions to the Town Team Movement.

“During her six years of service at the City of Stirling, Bianca supported and delivered many major projects which made a difference to residents in the Inglewood Ward. These include increased tree planting in Dianella, upgrades to the Dianella BMX facility and the start of the Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre outdoor pool upgrade.

“Bianca was a key player in saving the Inglewood Bowling Club from closing in 2018 and strongly advocated for improved street lighting and the Beaufort Street variable speed limit.

“She also contributed to a variety of committees including the Community and Resources Committee, Audit Committee, Catalina Regional Council and the Metro Inner-North Joint Development Assessment Panel.

“Bianca’s achievements show what can be achieved when you get involved, work hard and take on challenges with the local community front of mind at all times.

“The City of Stirling, its council and myself all wish Bianca the very best in her new role. I am sure she will be a great success.”

The Western Australian Electoral Commission (WAEC) will open nominations for the 2023 Local Government Elections, due to take place 21 October 2023, on 31 August 2023.

Councillor Sandri’s resignation means that there will be two positions vacant in the Inglewood Ward at the 2023 Local Government Election.

For more information on the upcoming Local Government Elections in Western Australia go to the WA Electoral Commission website.

The City of Greater Geelong has a new chief executive officer with Ali Wastie reporting for duty late last month.

New Geelong CEO Ali Wastie.

Noel Pearson, Dean Parkin, Alan Joyce and Anthony Albanese help launch the new Yes23 logo. Picture: DEAN LEWINS/AAP

Housing in the spotlight

Yarra Ranges Council has made a submission to the state Inquiry into the Rental and Housing Affordability Crisis, aiming to highlight some of the pressing housing challenges in the region.

Council recognises that access to suitable, secure, and affordable housing is crucial in establishing a diverse community that can actively engage in all aspects of society.

In the submission to the State government-led inquiry Council identified several key contributing factors including:

· Significant loss of rental stock during Covid.

· Victorian rental legislation and new regulations.

· Interest rate rises and state taxation.

· The mismatch between current housing stock and demand.

· A lack of government investment in social housing.

· Planning legislation challenges.

· Short-stay and key worker accommodation. In its submission, council emphasised

the urgency of addressing the rental and housing affordability crisis and presented some actionable solutions to these factors for consideration.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child urged the State Government to take decisive actions, including targeted investments in social housing, and streamlined planning legislation to safeguard rental markets and support local communities.

“Our submission to the Inquiry aims to shed light on the urgent need for multi-faceted action to address this crisis and protect the wellbeing of our residents,“ Cr Child said.

“The housing affordability crisis is affecting families, workers, and vulnerable individuals across Yarra Ranges. Council are limited in the impact it can have, which is why we have made a submission calling on the State Government

Contractors must be

left alone

The Housing Industry Association has successfully convinced the government that independent contracting arrangements in the residential building industry must not be impacted by the much-anticipated industrial relations reforms according to association managing director Jocelyn Martin.

“Legislation introduced into Federal Parliament today confirms that tradies in the residential building industry will not be captured by measures targeted at ‘employee-like’ workers,” added Ms Martin.

“HIA have worked directly with the government, including the Minister, to ensure that independent contractors, the majority of which are small businesses, and the engine room of the Australian economy, can continue to build the homes the Australian community so desperately needs.

“We are pleased the government has listened to HIA’s concerns that reforms to industrial relations laws cannot and should not impact the status quo in the residential building industry. Protecting the rights of independent contractors is critical.

“Under the proposed laws a worker must be operating via a digital platform and be ‘employee-like’ to become subject to the Fair Work Commission’s proposed new powers to set minimum standards. Claims that the commission will be able to force independent contractors to become em-

ployees don’t appear to hold much weight,” said Ms Martin.

“In a further win, and as a direct result of HIA’s lobbying efforts, apprentice and training arrangements have been expressly excluded from measures targeted at labour hire providers.

“HIA does remain concerned about several aspects of the Bill. HIA is keen to better understand how the proposed new jurisdiction of the commission to deal with unfair contract terms and measures targeted at the road transport industry supply chain will affect independent contractors and the residential building industry.

“Independent contracting arrangements in the residential building industry are critical to delivering the government’s commitment to build 1.2 million homes over the next five years and we will continue to work with the government to ensure that these proposals do not jeopardise the operation of an industry already facing several significant challenges,” Ms Martin concluded.

to invest in social housing and provide targeted support to ensure a brighter future for those struggling to find a stable home.“

“Through the Yarra Ranges Draft Housing Strategy that will be exhibited for public consultation later this year, we propose to pursue diverse approaches to improve housing supply and affordability that caters to all residents. But, clearer guidance and support from the government is crucial – particularly in planning processes - to help us meet the growing demand and make progress in addressing the housing crisis.“

Submissions closed on 7 July 2023 with the committee to report back to Parliament by 17 November, 2023.

Partnership to help fund social homes

A partnership between the Queensland Government and YWCA National Housing is delivering 15 new social homes in Toowoomba for women, their children and gender-diverse people with the first tenants already moving in.

It follows the acquisition of a former retirement village in Toowoomba, the announcement to build 19 new social homes to be built in Newtown and a partnership with Vinnies to build a further 27 homes in the city.

It’s part of a record $5 billion for social and affordable housing – the largest concentrated investment in Queensland’s history – to help deliver 13,500 homes

Fifteen homes will be acquired in total, with the first eight homes already settled and another due to settle next month.

Queensland Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said the partnership included the purchase of nine, two-bedroom apartments.

“Alongside our big housing build, we’re looking at every lever possible to help Queenslanders who need a social home into one sooner,” the Minister said.

“That includes partnering with the YWCA to purchase new homes that’ll help women and their children – many of whom may be escaping domestic and family violence – have a safe, secure and affordable place to call home.

“The first tenants have already moved into properties in Toowoomba and these purchases are able to make a difference quickly.

“Along with the pipeline of homes being built and purchased in the region, this part-

nership will provide a much-needed injection for local families in housing need.”

YWCA Acting CEO, Joanna Mallon said the group’s partnership with the government would be a big help to those struggling to find places to live.

“We are so pleased to be working in partnership with the Queensland Government to deliver even more housing solutions for Queenslanders,” she said.

“These homes are part of YWCA’s commitment to ensure women and gender diverse people have access to safe, secure, and affordable homes in Queensland.

“YWCA looks forward to continuing to work closely with the Queensland Government to deliver even more housing solutions across regional Queensland, alleviating housing stress for priority groups such as women, their families and gender diverse people.”

YWCA tenant Misty said she was thankful to have a roof over head.

“I have a stable house for myself and my two girls, something to call ours and be proud of,” she said.

“A place my girls can feel safe and not have to worry if we’re sleeping in a tent or someone’s couch.

“This is the best thing that has happened to us.”

Yarra Ranges Council has made a submission to a state wide inquiry into housing. Picture: ON FILE

Councils transition to EVs

experiences of transitioning to greener fleets.

The National Public Sector Fleet Managers’ Conference brings Commonwealth, State and Local Government Fleet Managers together with vehicle manufacturers and suppliers of services such as telemetry, EV components, specialised vehicle fit-outs, safety and training.

International speakers from the United States, Norway, Sweden and New Zealand will share their experiences in additional to leading national speakers across topics vital to public sector fleets.

Key topics to be covered of relevance to fleet managers include:

· Green fleets for local government in cities and regions

· Charging networks for the public sector

· Case studies in local government transitioning to EVs

· EV commercial and heavy vehicles

· Telemetry and connected fleets

· Vehicle safety and training needs of green fleets

· Fire safety and EVs

The program features an optional ½ day workshop aimed specifically at local government fleet managers.

A wide range of vehicle manufacturers and suppliers are exhibiting.

The annual conference, being staged in Melbourne 28 – 29 November 2023, is an initiative of the Public Sector Fleet Management Business Improvement Group.

The conference is being Hosted by VicFleet and will be staged at the Moonee Valley Racing Club. For full details and to register, visit npsfmc.com

BringingtogetherfleetmanagersacrossFederal,State andLocalGovernmentasweheadtowardsNetZero.

Keytopicsinclude:

•Greenfleetsforlocalgovernmentincitiesandregions

•CasestudiesinpublicsectortransitioningtoEVs

•Thegreeningoffleets–EV,HybridandICE

•EVcommercialandheavyvehicles

•Howwillemergencyvehiclesgogreen?

•ImplicationsoftheNationalElectricVehicleStrategy

•TelemetryandConnectedfleets

•Chargingnetworksforthepublicsector

•Vehiclesafetyandtrainingneedsaswetransition

Hostedby

Theprogramfeaturesleading nationalandinternational speakers.

Thereareoptional 1/2day workshopsaimedspecificallyat localgovernmentfleets.

Awiderangeofvehicle manufacturersandsuppliersare exhibiting.

Local government will be a key driver in the transition to greener fleets across Australia. Some 30 per cent of Australia’s vehicle fleet is operated by government agencies and local government will take an important role in demonstrating to the wider community the process and practical

Collaboration wins

Roper Gulf Regional Council and Bradford Institute have taken out the Industry Collaboration of the Year at the NT Training Awards, a night dedicated to recognising training excellence across the Territory.

This award recognises the outstanding efforts of both organisations in tailoring their Certificate III in Community Services program to meet the unique needs of the students completing the course.

The Certificate III in Community Services program has been specifically designed to address the challenges faced in remote areas and focuses on providing practical skills and knowledge that are relevant to the needs of these communities.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including cultural awareness, communication skills, community development, and advocacy.

It also emphasises the importance of selfcare and well-being, equipping participants with the tools they need to support the mental, emotional, and physical health of community members.

By training individuals who are already embedded within the community, the program ensures that the skills and knowledge acquired are not only relevant but also sustainable.

“The NT Training Award for Industry Collaboration of the Year is a testament to the commitment and dedication of both organisations involved,” Roper Gulf Regional Council CEO Marc Gardner said.

“It recognises their innovative approach to education and their focus on the needs of people living in these communities.

“This award serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration, creativity, and community-driven initiatives in addressing the unique challenges faced by community life.”

This approach not only benefits the participants but also strengthens the overall capacity of the community to address its unique chal-

lenges and improve the quality of life for its members.

The partnership between Roper Gulf Regional Council and Bradford Institute has proven to be highly successful in achieving its objectives as all applicant of this course received their final qualification.

Chris Barrett, trainer at Bradford Institute said it was a great moment for the program.

“I am thrilled for the Roper Gulf Community and particularly thrilled for the night patrollers who completed this course.

“Without the commitment from these stu-

Colour covers works

dents we would have never won this award, they trusted the process, trusted us and this is for them.”

Roper Gulf Regional Council and Bradford Institute are proud to have received this prestigious award and are committed to continuing their efforts in providing quality education and support to people living in the Roper Gulf Region.

Roper Gulf Regional Council and Bradford Institute would also like to extend their thanks to the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) for their ongoing support and funding for this program and so many others like it.

On a mission to better health

The Council has partnered up with Brisbane City Council, Moreton Bay City Council, Gold Coast City Council, Logan City Council and Redland City Council to join the ‘South-East Queensland Explorer Campaign 2.0’, using the AR gaming craze to get families outdoors, exploring and having fun.

With two augmented reality (AR) challenges to complete, Lockyer Valley Community Services Portfolio Councillor, Michael Hagan encouraged everyone to get on board.

“Anyone can join by downloading the free ‘Agents of Discovery’ app on their device.

“The missions take about an hour to complete and feature games and challenges about our local flora, fauna and unique locations in the Lockyer Valley.

“Come along to Lake Apex Park, Gatton and Fairways Park, Kensington Grove between 9 September and 3 October to com-

plete the missions.

“And as an added bonus, there are two shorter missions to complete at the Laidley Spring Festival and Bee Happy Day this Saturday and Sunday in celebration of ‘Save the Koala Month’.

“If you complete the quest this weekend, visit Council at the Laidley Spring Festival to collect your prize.

“No data or Wi-Fi is needed to play a mission once it’s downloaded, so grab your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes and join in the fun,” Cr Hagan said.

“Anyone can join in by downloading the free Agents of Discovery mobile app and completing the missions at our locations.

New alliance for resilient Tassie

Northern Tasmania’s eight councils have collaborated on a new three-year climate resilience initiative.

To be known as the Northern Tasmanian Alliance for Resilient Councils, the NTARC comprises representatives from the Break O’Day, City of Launceston, Dorset, Flinders, George Town, Meander Valley, Northern Midlands and West Tamar Councils.

NTARC’s aim is to assist member councils to better understand and respond to the changing climate and a wide range of associated social, economic, cultural and environmental challenges.

The eight member councils have identified that in order to prepare for climate change there is a need to:

· Build capacity within councils to incorporate climate change considerations in their operational and strategic decision making;

· Work collaboratively across councils to harmonise responses and ensure consistent approaches are adopted to assess and adapt to climate risks and hazards;

· Work collaboratively with State Government to influence and inform State policies, processes and legislative instruments, such as the Tasmanian Planning Scheme, which affect Councils’ ability to adapt to climate change; and

· Share data, knowledge and other resources to ensure best practice and best evidence approaches to adaptation are applied.

Break O’Day Mayor Mick Tucker said the Northern Tasmanian Alliance for Resilient Councils was a first for Tasmania.

“This is the first time in our State that an en-

tire region has come together strategically to attempt to tackle this complex and challenging issue,” Cr Tucker said.

“This is a great opportunity for councils to collaborate and work together across municipal boundaries to address climate change as a region. This holistic approach will allow us to share knowledge resources and solutions that the whole northern region and its environment and communities can benefit from.

“The Northern Tasmanian Alliance for Resilient Councils allows member councils to harmonise and standardise their responses to climate change, and to more effectively work with other levels of government and the wider Tasmanian community.”

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the ART SITES Creative Hoarding program aims to “enliven our streets and change the vibe that public works and developments bring to the city”.

“When the mesh fencing goes up it often means something great is on its way,” Cr Reynolds said.

“New housing, improved streetscapes, better shopping.

“But in the meantime it can feel dull and a bit ugly for neighbouring business, residents and passers-by.

“ART SITES seeks to change that by providing a collection of original contemporary local Tasmanian artworks to use on construction sites.

“The art will be available for commercial as well as City of Hobart projects.”

The four artists commissioned for Art Sites are Kat Scarlet, Robert O’Connor, Daniel Gray-Barnett and Tasmanian First Nations designer Michelle Maynard.

Creative City Portfolio Chair Cr Kelly said the artists were chosen for their bold and engaging style.

“The works showcase the iconic Tasmanian landscape, First Nations design, fantastic fungi and chaotic collage, all in vibrant contemporary styles,” Cr Kelly said.

“The aim is to turn construction sites into public galleries that enliven our city while providing an opportunity for some of our best local artists to display their works on a large scale.”

The first Creative Hoarding has been installed at the City of Hobart Salamanca Place Precinct Upgrade construction site.

The works are the final stage of the $3.5 million project aimed at making it easier and safer for pedestrians to move around the area from Salamanca Place to the waterfront.

The bold landscape work Suspended Breath: a Hartz Journey is from Huonville artist Kat Scarlet which she describes as a love letter to Southern Tasmania’s Hartz Mountain National Park.

“I am thrilled to be involved with this fantastic project,” Ms Scarlet said.

“The opportunity to get my artwork out to a wider audience is amazing but also being able to give the residents of Hobart, and its visitors, the chance to engage with art in the public domain is great too.

“Hoardings are typically uninspiring to look at so to have these giant expanses of colour is going to be pretty special.

“I hope people see my work and are inspired to visit the beautiful wild places that we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep here in Tasmania.”

Commercial construction and development companies are encouraged to get in contact if they are interested in having a Creative Hoarding installed for an upcoming Hobart municipality project.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council is pleased to partner in an exciting new initiative, designed to get the kids out of the house, learn about nature and explore our region.

On a mission for healthy children.

Hobart will soon be bursting into colour with a new program from the City of Hobart which will present art and design concepts as printed artworks on construction site fencing and hard hoarding.

The winning smiles, from left, Dave Bradford (Bradford Institute), Angela Bradford (Bradford Institute), Chris Barrett (Bradford Institute), Clare Cupitt (Roper Gulf) and Cristie Geer (Roper Gulf).

Offsetting energy use

Australian businesses will soon be able to offset their energy use with renewable gas certificates as part of GreenPower’s Renewable Gas Certification Pilot which kicked off last month.

In a game-changing development for thousands of commercial and industrial gas users, who rely on gas for their operations, the certification pilot opens the door to a new way of reducing emissions, without the need to change systems, appliances or processes.

The pilot represents a substantial building block in the development of a viable Australian renewable gas industry, helping to encourage greater investment in biomethane and green hydrogen projects. Under the pilot scheme GreenPower will ensure that each certificate

represents accredited renewable gas that displaces natural gas in the Australian energy system. This will directly support renewable gas projects and allows customers to match their natural gas use with low-emission renewable gas.

The scheme is an exciting step forward and could act as a precursor to the Federal Government Guarantee of Origin Scheme expanding to include renewable gases like biomethane made from organic waste and green hydrogen

Gas is not merely a transitional fuel; it is a fuel in the midst of a transition. By investing in Renewable Gas now, we can secure reliable and sustainable more options for households, businesses, industries, and transportation. Renewable Gas, which includes green hydrogen generated from renewable electricity and biomethane made from organic waste, is an additional source of energy that is already being successfully utilised in other parts of the world. It has the potential to help Australia meet its opportunities for regional employment and many circular emissions goal by 2050.

made using renewable electricity.

Renewable gas projects and production sites around the country can apply to be certified under the new scheme, and Jemena is aiming for its Malabar Biomethane demonstration project facility to be one of the first major renewable gas facilities registered under the GreenPower certification scheme.

Jemena’s Malabar Biomethane facility, in Sydney’s South-East, is the first of its kind injecting biomethane into the company’s NSW

gas network. The groundbreaking Malabar project is turning waste into energy, a working example of the circular economy that is also providing a sustainable substitute for natural gas.

In its trial phase, the project is set to produce approximately 95 terajoules (TJs) of biomethane gas annually – equivalent to powering around 6300 homes. Over four years, production could scale-up to 200TJs of biomethane, catering for the average annual gas usage of about 13,300 homes.

Find out more about renewable gas projects and opportunities in NSW: gorenewablegas.com.au

Supporting a secure, stable and sustainable energy system for the future

Jemena Biomethane Injection Project.

Ingenious approach

Ku-ring-gai Council is offering practical help to residents who want to set up a ‘verge garden’ on their nature strip.

As part of its Urban Forest Strategy adopted last year, the council is offering practical support to residents wanting to make more of their nature strips.

Verge gardens are being promoted to improve the appearance of nature strips and also encourage more planting of natives, particularly those that boost local biodiversity and encourage pollinators such as bees.

They are proven to combat the effects of urban heat and reduce the effects of storm-

TURF TALK

water run-off.

The council’s verge garden program provides advice and a limited number of free plants to residents who qualify.

As a first step residents are invited to complete an online checklist to assess whether their nature strip is suitable.

Where possible residents are encouraged to use plants that are indigenous to the local area, with the Wildflower Garden’s plant nurs-

ery selling suitable tube stock.

Mayor Jeff Pettett said the verge garden idea was ‘catching on in Ku-ring-gai’.

“In the future verge gardens could make an important difference to lowering the temperature in summer and improving the appearance of local streets,” he said. To find out more about the verge garden program and complete the online checklist go to krg.nsw.gov. au/vergegardens

Travelling one garden at a time

Meet Albert, an IGFH member who became inspired to take his career across the world.

By Bradley Tennant

At International Greenkeepers For Hire, one of our main aims is to inspire our members to travel the world and experience their job role from a new location.

Having worked overseas myself, I can say firsthand that using your skills in a different region, with a climate that you’re not used to and environmental factors that you’ve never before had to consider, is invaluable to both personal and professional growth.

But don’t just take it from me. One of our very first members, Albert Oberholzer, became inspired to travel from his hometown in South Africa to pursue a greenkeeping job in New Zealand after joining our Facebook group.

We had the pleasure of interviewing Albert, who shared his experience of traveling more than 8000 miles across the world to pursue an exciting new career opportunity at the age of 41.

Albert told us that he found IGFH on Facebook, back when the group had just 11 members, when he was looking for jobs online.

He contacted Daryl, the founding member of IGFH, who put him in touch with a golf course in Australia. This ended up not being the right fit for Albert, but he continued to search for opportunities to work abroad, deciding on New Zealand as his location of choice.

The process of applying for jobs was not a quick or easy one, but eventually, less than a year after deciding he wanted to live and work in New Zealand, Albert received a formal employment contract for a lawn care company based in Nelson Tasman, a picturesque region on the north-west of New Zealand’s South Island.

If you’ve been considering applying for an overseas job, you might be wondering what tips Albert can offer on his experience.

Albert said that he was “very driven”, sharing that he “jumped online almost immediately”

New name decided

Roxborough Park Rose Garden, located within Alfred Henry Whaling Memorial Reserve, in Baulkham Hills, is getting a new name according to The Hills Council.

It will now be called Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden in dedication to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who died in September 2022 after reigning for 70 years.

to get his CV out there, spending a lot of time on social media and following pages like the IGFH Facebook group to search for lawn-related companies in New Zealand.

Even when two job offers fell throughwhich Albert admitted was “disheartening” - he continued to pursue his options, emailing his future employer on two separate occasions to enquire about available job roles. A few weeks after his second email, Albert received a phone call, which turned out to be an impromptu interview for the lawn care job he’d enquired about - and the rest, as they say, is history.

So, resilience clearly plays a role in applying for careers overseas. Good organisation skills are also essential when making a big move across the world.

Albert didn’t only have to juggle selling his house and applying for visas - he also had to navigate life in a new country during the Coronavirus pandemic, which threw New Zealand into lockdown just two weeks into starting at his new job. This meant that Albert’s wife and daughter, who had planned to meet him in New Zealand two months after his arrival, were unable to arrive in the country until eight months later.

Thankfully, Covid-19 eventually became a thing of the past, and after two years on

the job, Albert’s employer made an offer he couldn’t exist: to become the owner of the company. Albert and his wife now proudly own Lawn Rescue 22 - the most fantastic end to an inspiring story.

Of working abroad, Albert said: “Working in New Zealand is just amazing. I come across friendly and kind people every day, and my customers are just as passionate about great lawns! Being located in Nelson also means that most jobs come with a great view.”

Of course, there are some challenges to working in a different climate, especially as New Zealand experienced a period of extreme weather during Albert’s employment. This, according to Albert, made things “a bit hectic”, and the rain made his job more challenging, since “there’s not much you can do on a waterlogged lawn”.

Does he plan to stay in New Zealand forever? As the owner of a company based in the country, Albert is unlikely to move any time soon. But he says if the opportunity ever arises in the future, he’ll begin by looking at jobs in Australia. He’d also love to work at a golf course in Florida, USA, as he did years earlier after completing his studies. IGFH will be his first port of call.

Let’s finish with one last nugget of inspiration from Albert, as he tells us about the best thing he learned from his career and what advice he would pass on to aspiring greenkeepers:

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help and never stop learning. Keep learning, be humble, and never give up on your dreams! If your dreams don’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough.”

Big thanks to Albert Oberholzer for his involvement in this article. If you’re an IGFH member who has secured a greenkeeping career abroad, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us - internationalgreenkeepers@gmail.com

The decision to rename the rose garden follows a Mayoral Minute in September 2022 by the Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi, to rename a Hills Shire park, building or significant place in her honour.

“Queen Elizabeth II was the longestserving monarch and our most enduring Australian head of state. The late Queen exemplified her commitment in various ways, whether as a mechanic during World War II, championing numerous environmental causes, supporting charities, or connecting with individuals across the globe. Her essence was always rooted in selfless service,” Mayor Gangemi said.

“Having graced Australian shores more frequently than any other monarch, including visiting The Hills, our community has fostered a profound connection with the esteemed late Queen.

“Naming this garden in her honour is a fitting testament to her extraordinary dedication to our nation and the world. This special place will undoubtedly inspire the residents of The Hills, both now and in the years to come.”

The rose garden has been a favourite amongst residents and visitors since its establishment in 1972.

A senior landscape designer from the Royal Botanic Gardens designed the garden, which includes more than 4000 roses from 80 different species, including the Australian Bi-Centennial Rose, The Hills Shire Council’s Centenary Rose and the Olympic Gold Rose.

The rose garden underwent a major renovation earlier this year, thanks to joint funding from Council and the Australian Government. The upgrades involved improving the stairs and pathways, as well as restoring the fountain, installing a new rose arbour and irrigation system, and creating a sandstone feature area.

Albert Oberholzer from Lawn Rescue 22.

Hot topics for conference

Boosting road and infrastructure funding to better support communities was a major focus of ALGA’s 2023 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress held in Canberra from 6-7 September.

Attended by around 250 delegates, including mayors, shire presidents, councillors and council works and engineering staff from across Australia, the Congress had a broad focus on community infrastructure, renewable energy deployment and integration, innovations in active transport, waste and recycling, affordable housing and resilient telecommunications.

ALGA President Councillor Linda Scott opened the event by highlighting the urgent need for more funding to repair roads and infrastructure in the wake of rising inflation and costs.

“The Roads to Recovery Program is incredibly important but it hasn’t increased in years, despite the growing costs of materials and labour. So, we’re advocating for an increase from $500 million to $800 million per year, that will support all councils to invest in our national local road network,” Cr Scott said.

Cr Scott said given councils manage one third of Australia’s public infrastructure assets, including roads and buildings, there was a major cost involved.

“As a sector of government that collects less than four percent of taxation, this has become a big challenge,” Cr Scott said.

“So ALGA continues to advocate for the extra support councils so desperately need, and this means restoring federal Financial Assistance Grants to at least one percent of Commonwealth taxation revenue.”

Keynote speaker Natasha Bradshaw from the Grattan Institute also presented some preliminary results from new research into local road funding, which showed over the past 20 years, federal Financial Assistance Grants have failed to keep pace with the rising costs of constructing and maintaining local roads.

The findings also confirmed regional, rural and remote councils face additional and sometimes insurmountable difficulties, due to smaller rate payer bases, larger geographical areas, and less staff.

Federal Assistant Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Senator Carol Brown also discussed national transport infrastructure and the importance of road safety

on Wednesday afternoon.

Delegates also heard from a panel of experts who discussed innovations and the latest

trends in automated heavy vehicle access and data collection in Australia.

National Emergency Management Agency

Embrace clean solutions urges minister

Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen has urged local governments to collaborate and partner with the Federal Government to reduce emissions and embrace clean energy solutions to address Australia’s climate change challenge.

Speaking at a roundtable at ALGA’s 2023 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress on 7 September, Mr Bowen encouraged all councils to work closely with other levels of government.

“This is an all-of-nation effort – as we won’t get this done alone,” Mr Bowen told the

breakfast, involving local mayors, shire presidents and council leaders.

“We want to bring communities with us –we are committed to doing that and we are here to help,” Mr Bowen said.

“We want to do it together – federal, state

and local [governments] – rowing in the same direction. That’s certainly something we’re trying to achieve.

“We welcome partnerships right across the board, including from local government in particular.”

Minister Bowen also announced the guidelines for the Government’s new $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund are expected to be released in December, with councils able to apply for funding from January 2024.

Coordinator-General Brendan Moon spoke about how councils can better navigate federal disaster recovery and response arrangements.

ALGA President Linda Scott.

Kristy McBain MP speaking at 2023 Congress

Dinner, National Arboretum. Pictures: ALGA

Darren Chester MP.

Minister Bowen and ALGA President Linda Scott.

Ringing in a new era

The City of Greater Bendigo has won a prestigious award for its staging of Richard Wagner’s epic opera the Ring Cycle at the Ulumbarra Theatre.

The Performance Arts Centres Australia (PAC Australia) Impact Award acknowledged the Ring Cycle’s significant cultural and economic impact on the region and the Victorian state.

The $5m critically acclaimed Ring Cycle blockbuster produced by Melbourne Opera in partnership with Bendigo Venues and Events (BV&E) was a major tourism draw for Bendigo and the region.

The Ring Cycle has only been performed five times anywhere in Australia and the Bendigo production was the first time it had ever been performed outside a capital city.

The award honours change-makers and trailblazers in the performing arts sector that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and significant economic and cultural impact.

PAC Australia is the national peak body representing and supporting performing arts presenters, venues, producers, and creators by providing leadership, building capacity, and facilitating relationships that strengthen the connection between the art and the audience.

The entire Ring Cycle was performed three times over 12 weekends between March and April at Ulumbarra Theatre earlier this year, attracting opera fans from all over Australia and from 11 different countries.

The Ring Cycle consisted of four individual operas, Das Rheingold, Die Walküre, Siegfried and Götterdämmerung and involved more than 350 Australian singers, musicians, creatives, technicians and event staff.

More than a third of the workforce were local with eight chorus members and seven musicians performing alongside the star-studded Melbourne Opera cast.

BV&E manager Julie Amos said it was a great honour to receive the national award at a PAC ceremony on Wednesday evening.

“The city is thrilled to win this prestigious

Health solution

The

accolade,” Ms Amos said.

“This is fantastic recognition for our talented staff at BV&E from technicians to ticket sellers, to our volunteer ushers, all of whom went above and beyond to welcome visitors and support our partners, Melbourne Opera, to stage an incredible production at our worldclass venue, Ulumbarra Theatre.

Councils axed from funding

Peri-urban councils including Baw Baw and Bass Coast have been rocked by a State Government decision to remove them from a major funding program.

By Eleanor Wilson

The Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF) was set up in 2015 to deliver critical community infrastructure to Melbourne’s fast-growing outer suburbs, investing more than $1.2 billion into 346 projects in that time.

After expanding to include peri-urban municipalities in 2020, the government revealed it would return to focus on interface councils, in turn removing five councils from the funding stream, including Baw Baw, Bass Coast, Golden Plains, Moorabool and Surf Coast Shire Councils.

Peri Urban Councils Victoria chairman and Baw Baw Shire Councillor Michael Leaney said he and his fellow councillors were disappointed by the government’s actions.

“We call on the Victorian Government to explain to peri-urban communities how things like community centres, libraries, pools, parks, childcare centres and sporting facilities can now be built without funding assistance from the state,” Cr Leaney said.

“Peri-urban councils, just like all councils across the state, are rate-capped, so local government is not in a position to fill this funding void.”

He fears the state’s removal from the program will also inhibit other funding opportunities for the councils.

“Normally, State Government programs provide co-funding for federal programs, so the removal of peri-urban areas from this funding opportunity will create a growing infrastructure divide between the councils in our State who are all working hard to accommodate new growth,” Cr Leaney said.

“Our members are unlikely to attract federal funding without state support.”

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said the GSF program had extended to peri-urban councils in 2020 as part of the government’s pandemic response.

“We value our regional communities and continue to support them and the various sectors within including agriculture, business, sporting, tourism, arts and culture, major events, skills and training just to name a

few,” Ms Crugnale said.

But Cr Leaney argued peri-urban municipalities continue to be impacted by “Covidfuelled growth”.

“If you add new immigration, which is set to rise to historic levels again, peri-urban towns will continue to be the front line for the ongoing wave of growth, increasing our population by as much as 40 per cent over the next 10 years,” Cr Leaney said.

“The Victorian Government would appear to not fully understand population growth in peri-urban areas - unfortunately peri-urban councils, who have limited capacity to raise funds, have fallen through the cracks again and we fear there will be long-term damage from excluding peri-urban councils from the Growing Suburbs Fund.”

Ms Crugnale maintained that peri-urban councils have a “myriad of funding streams previously afforded to them as regional areas”.

That includes benefits from the recent $2 billion Regional package which was announced in lieu of the 2026 Commonwealth Games and was projected to boost tourism and infrastructure in regional Victoria.

“We also have a dedicated regional fund that covers for example Infrastructure, Jobs, Communities and open now is also the Country Football and Netball fund.

“The criteria for the 2023-24 round does

not have any impact on projects that have already been funded through the Growing Suburbs Fund in peri-urban councils.

“I look forward to seeing these projects delivered for the benefit of our local and visitor communities.”

Baw Baw Shire chief executive Mark Dupe echoed concerns for the future of funding for the region.

“By removing eligibility for this funding for peri-urban councils altogether, councils like Baw Baw Shire have lost one of the few significant streams of funding left to our region,” he said.

Funding from the GSF program provided several significant contributions to infrastructure in Baw Baw Shire, including $500,000 into the Longwarry Early Learning Centre, $2 million for a multi-use pavilion at Bellbird Park East, $1.5 million for a community open space project in Rollo Street Yarragon and $3.5 million for the Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct’s Library and Learning Centre.

The program had previously attracted criticism after the Victorian Government allocated $10 million to the fund in May’s 2023/24 Budget - a significant drop from the $50 million assigned the previous year.

The GSF program remains accessible to 10 interface councils, including Casey and Cardinia.

Shire President, Councillor David Bolt, explained the Murray Health Futures Steering Committee includes representatives from the Shire, South Metropolitan Health Service, WA Primary Health Alliance and Peel Development Commission.

“We are acutely aware of the various health needs of Murray residents and are taking action to identify a suitable longterm solution,” said Councillor Bolt.

Statistics show people living in Murray have more long-term health conditions – such as arthritis, heart disease and lung conditions – when compared to Greater Perth. They also tend to have limited access to public transport compared to other areas, such as Perth.

Sadly, 37 per cent of Murray residents have a long-term health condition, compared to 30 per cent in Greater Perth. Additionally, 50.6 per cent of adults live with obesity (vs 31.2 per cent in WA), 23 per cent have high blood pressure (vs 17 per cent in WA) and 19 per cent have high or very high psychological distress (vs nine per cent in WA).

Space bid

The Gold Coast City Council resolved to support in principle the redevelopment of the Surfers Paradise Transit Centre into a Town Hall style venue which would provide a significant uplift for the suburb.

The proposal is for a venue that could host upwards of 2500 patrons for live music and cabaret shows, banquets and other corporate events, while also creating ancillary spaces that could be established for art workshops, music studios, education, civic events and community focused co-working spaces.

Division 10 Councillor Darren Taylor said the location of the Transit Centre and the history of the site made this decision an easy one. Early concepts suggest the venue could contemplate the following features:

· Venue with a maximum capacity of 2800 pax (2200 standing capacity in the main hall).

· Wrap around mezzanine balcony on three sides with 400 standing capacity and with 200 tiered seats to the rear.

· Entrance lobby and lobby facilities at the eastern end along Beach Road.

· Back of house and loading zone.

· Provision of a significant outdoor garden and laneway area for outdoor activations, ad hoc community access and use and food and beverage offerings.

The council committed $200,000 to progress the proposal for detailed design and analysis with a future budgetary consideration to progress the project in 2024-25.

A key Gold Coast Cityowned Surfers Paradise asset would be transformed into a unique community space that could also host world class music events in a bold proposal being investigated by the city.

Shire of Murray has established a multi-agency steering committee to undertake a health and social needs analysis, and identify a long-term solution to health care service provision in Murray.

Baw Baw Shire Council is one of several peri-urban municipalities to be removed from the funding program.

Stephen Henderson, Philippa Chalke and Julie Amos from Bendigo Venues and Events.

Tackling climate change through partnerships

Mayor ’ s Foreword

Protecting and preserving our natural environment is some of the most important work performed by the City of Cockburn and indeed local governments generally.

We have a critical role to play in responding to climate change through land use planning, emergency management, our control of public infrastructure and our delivery of community services.

In Cockburn we are blessed with a stunning coastline and wetlands. It is our duty to preserve and improve these spaces for future generations.

We think one of the best ways to achieve this is by creating partnerships with like-minded organisations and by empowering grassroots groups that are passionate about conservation.

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing all of us in Australia – but by working together we can make a difference. Below are some examples of some great partnerships delivering great outcomes for the Cockburn community.

Over the past 20 years, the shoreline near the northern end of our popular C. Y. O’Connor Beach has eroded by more than 50m, resulting in dune loss, relocation of pathways and sand replenishment works totalling more than $500,000.

To preserve our valuable coast, we brought together innovators from the private sector, academia and government to create a solution.

concrete modules, that will double in number in 2024.

Ongoing research will establish if the reef can slow the rate of coastal erosion by reducing wave energy hitting the shore, to allow establishment of a more stable sand dune buffer. Hopefully it will

was completed in partnership ocean engineering company

The Cockburn Wetlands PrecinctSaving our snake-necked turtles

The Beeliar Wetlands are a chain of beautiful lakes and bushland, which are home to countless species of plant and animal life including endangered and threatened species.

Aboriginal community.

Protecting this priceless natural resource for future generations is a priority for the City.

We recently completed a $6 million redevelopment of a unique wetlands precinct at the A-class Bibra Lake reserve, which is home to three local community for over 30 years.

• WA Wildlife, WA’s leading wildlife rescue, treatment and rehabilitation service

• volunteers provide wetland preservation and education

• Bibra Lake Scout Group whose members help preserve local wetlands. This state-of-the-art environmental hub includes a new WA Wildlife and a Scout shed with a dedicated Rover’s den.

Cockburn’s lakes and wetlands are home to the near-threatened southwestern snake-necked turtle (Chelodina oblonga).

Each September the females leave the water to lay their eggs in nearby sandy soil. At this time they are vulnerable to cars, foxes, ravens, dogs and cats.

Each year the City’s Sustainability and Climate Change team recruits volunteer Turtle Tracker crews in partnership with the citizen science

WA’s southwest, was the result of a three-year pilot project between the City of Cockburn and Murdoch University.

Part of its success relies on volunteers who track and protect vulnerable females during nesting season with the aim of increasing hatchlings who make it back to the safety of the wetlands to successfully reach breeding age.

Funding was provided by the City and the State Government’s Protection Grants program.

His Worship the Mayor Logan K. Howlett, JP

A rubbish disaster plan

Scenic Rim Regional Council says the adoption of a resilience roadmap means the region will be better prepared to manage garbage collection during the next extreme weather event.

In a statement released to the media, council said the federally funded project was the result of community consultation as part of Council’s Disaster Waste Management Project.

The federal government provided funding of $82,965 through the Preparing Australian Communities Program.

Mayor Greg Christensen said Queensland was often impacted by natural disasters and the Scenic Rim had frequently experienced lo-

calised flooding and severe storms, as well as bushfires.

“Disaster events not only disrupt essential waste services but also result in significant volumes of waste being generated,“ he said.

“This includes storm debris, damaged property and infrastructure, animal carcasses and waste resulting from the disaster response.

“Planning that encompasses the management of disrupted waste services, as well as

the volume and type of waste expected to be generated as a result of natural disasters, will assist Council in providing the necessary services to the community during challenging times.“

Council said the roadmap was in line with its vision of zero avoidable waste being disposed of to landfill.

“Since the establishment of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority following the 2010-

2011 floods, the Scenic Rim has experienced a number of significant natural disasters which have impacted our state,“ Mayor Christensen said.

“We know that a swift and efficient waste management response can limit the environmental, public health, social and economic consequences of disaster events that can have a lasting effect on the community and help the recovery process.”

Council says it is committed to a zero waste to landfill target. Seen here, Cr Michael Enright and Mayor Greg Christensen at Bromelton waste facility. Picture: SUPPLIED

Extreme weather events are common in the Scenic Rim.

Created to connect

Now more than ever, candidates like to research their future employer,

Careers at Council is local government’s national careers and employment website, managed by Local Government NSW on behalf of the State and Territory Local Government Associations. It provides insight into what a career in local government is like, bringing together career and job opportunities across

multiple councils under a single banner.

The website showcases council employees who are making a difference in their community, providing information about the breadth of work on offer and the suggested qualifications suitable for the many roles in local government.

Candidates can browse current job opportu-

government.

nities via keyword and location searches or register for job alerts, so they are the first to be informed of new career opportunities. For councils, there are many benefits of an annual subscription to Careers at Council, which is one of the largest and fastest growing local government sites on LinkedIn. Benefits include

Council

unlimited job postings, free appearance of jobs on LinkedIn, Indeed, and GradConnection, and the creation of employee and council blog stories on Careers at Council’s website and social channels. If your council would like more information about subscribing to Careers at Council, please contact jennifer.james@lgnsw.org.au

Enrich your knowledge in public works

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, Queensland

Conference at the Aquis Park – Gold Coast Turf Club on 10 – 12 October

IPWEA-QNT is the peak body representing those who are involved in the planning and provision of public works and services to Queensland and the Northern Territory communities. The Annual Conference provides an opportunity to connect with industry peers, earn valuable CPD hours and enrich your knowledge and expertise in the public works sector.

Over 400 delegates, encompassing all tiers of government as well as those in the private sector specialising in public works infrastructure will attend the three-day event. Latest trends, emerging innovations and best practices in public works will be explored.

His Worship the Mayor Cr Tom Tate, City of Gold Coast, will officially open the Conference program which features two keynotes, three technical tours, workshops, panel sessions, 38 technical papers and over 50 exhibitors. See a summary of the program below:

Keynote speakers include Leah Kelly, Deputy Director-General (Infrastructure and Regional Strategy) of the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning; and Linda Dobe, Acting Director-General of the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water.

Technical Tours: Gold Coast Light Rail Stage Three - Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads; Coombabah Sewage Treatment Plant - Stage Six Upgrade; and Disaster Emergency Management Unit.

Workshops:

· Women in Public Works: Leadership Workshop - Four sessions designed to provide networking opportunities in an educational environment. It covers a variety of topics from the professional day-to-day to personal growth and development.

· The Public Works Professionals Orientation – This program supports new professionals

joining the public works sector at any stage of their career.

Panel discussion: Our panel of experts including Leah Kelly, Deputy Director-General (Infrastructure and Regional Strategy) of the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning will exchange ideas on Queensland’s infrastructure challenge “An extra 2.2 million people by 2046 in SEQ, will our public works infrastructure cope?”

The Great Debate: “Young engineers embrace innovations more effectively than experienced engineers.“

Futures Challenge: Each year, IPWEA-QNT invites final-year university students studying civil engineering (or related disciplines) to present their thesis or research project to 400+ industry professionals on stage at the IPWEAQNT Annual Conference. The Futures Challenge is part of IPWEA-QNT’s commitment to

the development and promotion of our future leaders in public works engineering.

Other presentation topics include innovation and technology, active transport, road safety, asset management, urban water, stormwater, procurement and risk management, Community safety, resilience and betterment, planning and design, and community projects.

Public Works Exhibition: Meet and talk face-to-face with over 50 suppliers showcasing the latest products and services.

Excellence Awards: Leading public works people and project award winners will be announced at the IPWEA-QNT 2023 Excellence Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner from 6pm on Wednesday 11 October.

Conference MC: Former Premier of Tasmania, David Bartlett. Additional information can be found by visiting the 2023 IPWEA-QNT Annual Conference website at ipwea-qnt.com

which is why Careers at

is unique to the sector

– it is a content and story-driven jobs platform unlike any other in local

Sustainability to the fore

FOGO, an acronym that previously raised confused eyebrows, is becoming a household term thanks to the dedicated efforts of Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) and its proactive engagement plan – delivered in collaboration with council’s education, waste collection and waste facilities teams.

FOGO, which stands for Food Organics and Garden Organics, has received a facelift that not only clarifies its purpose but also fosters community involvement and joint responsibility.

Clearing the air: Addressing confusion

The first step towards this transformation was addressing the widespread confusion surrounding FOGO. Many community members were uncertain about the concept, its implications, and the proper practices to follow. This uncertainty resulted in contamination, which hindered the effectiveness and increased the costs of the FOGO initiative.

Council took this challenge head-on and turned it into an opportunity for education and engagement. Council adopted a multifaceted approach to combat confusion and contamination. A series of guides delivered to households provided simple yet comprehensive information about what goes into the FOGO bin, and what doesn’t. Positive reinforcement came in the form of congratulatory flyers, acknowledging households that consistently adhered to FOGO guidelines.

Bridging the gap: Hands-on engagement

To better understand the dynamics of FOGO implementation, council’s education engagement officer Aimee Moy went the extra mile – quite literally. She hopped onto the FOGO collection trucks, gaining insight into the challenges faced by the waste management team during collection runs. This hands-on approach extended to engaging with the community directly, spreading the word about FOGO through pop-up events on Cooma’s bustling main street and at local markets.

Empowering through education: From young to old

Education emerged as a cornerstone of the FOGO engagement plan. Book readings at the library made little evangelists of our youngest residents, instilling in them the importance of responsible waste management from an early age. Preschool and primary school children also benefited from dedicated FOGO and compost education sessions, ensuring that the next generation grows up with an understanding and appreciation of sustainability.

Unity in communication: A cohesive FOGO identity

Recognising that existing suite of communication and education materials were not up to the task, Ms Moy oversaw a complete overhaul of FOGO collateral. From council’s website and

Early, positive signs

Infor®, the industry cloud company, announced Riverina Water’s deployment of their Infor CloudSuite Public Sector Customer and Billing modules as part of its ambitious digital transformation project.

The company said there are early, positive signs for the organisation that should have a flow-on effect with customers set to reap the rewards of real-time transaction capabilities anywhere, anytime and on any device.

In a survey earlier this year across its supply area of Wagga Wagga City, Lockhart Shire and parts of Greater Hume and Federation council areas, overall satisfaction with customer service scored 4.69 out of 5. As a winner of the prestigious Sam Samra Award for Most Improved Local Water Utility in New South Wales (NSW), Infor will be instrumental in helping Riverina Water better manage costs, secure IT investments and improve service delivery to more than 77,000 customers by retiring legacy systems and moving to the cloud.

Infor CloudSuite Public Sector, which includes Infor Financials and Supply Management, Infor CIS Billing, Infor Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) (for integrated planning, budgeting, forecasting and financial consolidation, business intelligence and analytics), was selected following a competitive tender process in a bid to ensure that Riverina Water is well-positioned to operate in an increasingly digital world, while supporting efficient work processes, procedures, and service delivery – both internally and externally.

“We’re pleased that Infor has been able to deliver on the first phase of our transformation program. The system has only been in production for two months and we’re already seeing tangible benefits with a number of manual processes now automated. I’m looking forward to seeing how it will further benefit our customers into the future,” Riverina Water CEO Andrew Crakanthorp said.

“Infor plays an important role as a trusted partner in our commitment to providing safe and reliable drinking water to an ever-growing community. Infor was selected for its deep water industry experience and a cloud offering that’s flexible, agile, secure and customisable – all ingredients of the right industry-specific solution for our needs as we look to strengthen service delivery and enhance our standing as a customer-centric organisation with best-inclass customer service,” Crakanthorp said. “Importantly, we see this as a long-term partnership that will help meet our strategic goals.”

Riverina Water is planning for future rollouts of Infor solutions, including asset management, financials, supply chain management and Infor’s managed service, CareFor.

social media platforms to letters and flyers, a consistent and recognisable FOGO identity emerged. This visual transformation has not only enhanced engagement, but also established FOGO as a recognisable and respected community initiative.

Progress in real-time: Transparent impact

A crucial aspect of the revitalised FOGO engagement plan is transparency. By developing an “impact bar” on the official website, community members will be able to witness their contributions in real-time – once the feature is launched. This innovative feature not only fosters a sense of accomplishment but also highlights the collective impact on waste reduction and environmental preservation.

FOGO’s ripple effect: Beyond Cooma

Cooma’s efforts in redefining FOGO extend beyond its immediate borders. By partnering with neighbouring communities and the area’s large employers – as well as integrating new residents in the region through comprehensive onboarding – the lessons learned here will serve as the foundation of the wider regional rollout of FOGO across the Snowy Monaro in coming years.

Beyond waste: Investing in the circular economy

SMRC’s FOGO initiative embodies a commitment to the environment by minimising methane generation from organic waste in landfills. By emphasising its recyclability and potential to contribute to the circular economy, council showcases how investing in FOGO is an investment in a sustainable future. The end product – Coompost – is our home-grown compost product, available for low rates at council’s landfill facilities in Cooma and Jindabyne.

Celebrating success and planning ahead

As FOGO gains traction and contamination decreases, council is committed to acknowledging the community’s achievements. Celebrating wins, however small, helps to maintain momentum and reinforces the community’s role in this ongoing environmental endeavour. Cooma’s efforts are invaluable for planning the wider rollout of FOGO initiatives across the Snowy Monaro, with the town serving as a blueprint for our region’s other towns and villages to follow. Cooma’s journey with FOGO serves as a testament to the power of local government engagement in fostering positive change. Through education, transparency, and proactive community partnership, FOGO has overcome confusion to become a symbol of responsible waste management and environmental stewardship. As the town looks forward to a greener future, it invites the wider Snowy Monaro to join the cause and embrace the potential of FOGO.

Fresh streetscapes

The Town of Claremont’s parks and environment team has been hard at work keeping the streetscapes looking green by planting over 210 saplings across the region ready for when the spring weather arrives.

Starting in May, the team has been planting to replace those trees which failed to thrive due to disease or old age, along with plantings in new locations to enhance the region’s streetscapes.

Twenty-two different species were used across a mix of native, exotic, evergreen, and deciduous saplings with the aim of helping improve the region’s biodiversity.

The species used in the plantings were guided by the region’s Street Tree Masterplan, which was developed in conjunction with community consultation last year and determines the most appropriate trees to use in each of the region’s four wards.

Planting trees which stand a better chance of thriving is essential for enhancing the region’s biodiversity and means we can all enjoy the many benefits that trees bring both now, and into the future.

In a 2017 report from Greener Spaces Better Places, the region’s green canopy

Another sapling planted.

saw it as the only urban council in WA, and one of only 12 nationwide, to achieve a low heat vulnerability rating. Claremont is also rated as an Industry Leader in Streetscapes, trees, and verges in this year’s MARKYT Community Scorecard.

Riverina Water.

In the alpine hub of Cooma and its surrounds, a remarkable transformation is underway – one that involves not just waste disposal, but a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Education engagement officer Aimee Moy at a Cooma pop-up stall.

Driving a change

Wollondilly Council has expanded its fleet of community outreach vehicles with the addition of a customised, state-of-the-art mobile recovery and resilience vehicle.

Funded through the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund, the Resilient Wollondilly Van will be used to provide immediate outreach support to impacted residents and businesses during and immediately after a disaster.

Mayor Matt Gould said: “The Resilient Wollondilly Van will provide critical support for our communities when they need it the most, and reduce the need for residents to travel long distances in order to access support following a disaster.”

“It will also enable us to offer community programs focused on education, awareness and social connection,” Mayor Gould said.

The Resilient Wollondilly Van will be instrumental in establishing community recovery points, connecting residents with essential services, and supporting and distributing shortterm supplies. Its customised fit-out provides storage and equipment, including solar panels, lithium battery, work station, satellite internet, fridge, defibrillator and generator.

The need for a mobile disaster recovery point was identified after the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires, which affected people in a number of towns and villages across Wollondilly Shire. Afterward, two key recovery points were established in Picton and Balmoral Village and while both provided great support, their locations required residents to travel.

When the van is not being used for recovery

purposes it will be used for resilience-building projects including community education and awareness programs, social programs aimed at increasing connectedness, and opportunities for residents to connect with services.

The Resilient Wollondilly Van joins the Dilly Wanderer mobile community information service and the Mobile Library service in providing

New life for wetlands

information and assistance to residents in locations throughout the shire.

Funding for the Resilient Wollondilly Van project has been provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) via the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund.

Help council protect beaches

Livingstone Shire Council is asking for the community’s help and participation in protecting the beauty and tranquillity of Cocoanut Beach and Zilzie Beach from illegal four-wheel driving.

Council is deeply concerned about the increasing incidents of illegal four-wheel driving at Cocoanut Beach and Zilzie Beach, which threatens community safety, the natural beauty and peacefulness of these cherished coastal areas.

To raise awareness and deter unauthorized driving, the Council will soon be installing informative signage at strategic locations along Cocoanut Beach and Zilzie Beach.

These signs will clearly outline the penalties for engaging in illegal four-wheel driving activities on these beaches.

The primary objective behind the signage initiative is to educate the community and visitors to the area about their responsibilities and obligations under Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2011, S 1-6 (2) (a) Prescribed Activity.

According to Local Law No. 1 (Administra-

tion) 2011, vehicles are restricted from driving on any portion of the Local Governmentcontrolled areas that are not designated as access areas, unless prior approval has been obtained.

This regulation aims to safeguard the integrity of the beaches and prevent any further damage caused by unauthorized vehicles.

To provide a reasonable adjustment period for drivers to adapt to the enforcement measures, a grace period of two weeks will be implemented for public knowledge.

This grace period will be followed by an additional two-week period, during which repeated offenders will be issued official warnings as a last opportunity to rectify their behaviour.

During this time, individuals who engage in illegal four-wheel driving will receive warnings rather than fines.

Three years of environmental restoration work has recently been completed to successfully rehabilitate four hectares of Wetlands along the Canning River.

City of South Perth Mayor Greg Milner said the project was made possible by a $120,000 grant from the Swan Canning River Recovery stage three, supported by Perth NRM through funding from the Australian Government.

“The grant has enabled the city to grow 60,000 native seedlings at our Como nursery, which local volunteers and community groups have helped to plant at events such as National Tree Day,” the mayor said.

After the time has lapsed for the two grace periods, fines of $774 will apply to all drivers on Cocoanut Beach and Zilzie Beach.

The Council’s decision to act is in response to numerous complaints received from concerned members of the community regarding the detrimental effects of illegal four-wheel driving on a consistent basis.

Council aims to protect individuals’ safety, the local environment, preserve the natural beauty of the beaches, and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy these pristine coastal areas.

Livingstone Shire Council urges the community to actively support these measures by adhering to the laws, reporting any instances of illegal four-wheel driving, and spreading awareness among fellow residents and visitors.

Community garden on the way

A community garden at Padbury’s Gibson Park will soon become a reality after Joondalup Council supported a proposal for the city to enter a Memorandum of Understanding with Padbury Community Garden (PCG) Inc.

A community garden is an outdoor space that is used to grow fruits, vegetables and other plants in a collaborative manner.

The MOU will outline the requirements and conditions of approval for the group to manage and maintain the garden over a three-year period.

The proposed site for the garden is a small area of the park between the Gibson Park Community Centre car park, a fenced drainage reserve and a Western Power substation.

Padbury Community Garden Inc has been working on the proposal for a number of years. While waiting for approval, the association has been hosting community activities and workshops.

The PCG committee and its members were

delighted with the council’s unanimous support of the project.

“We are working to reduce the loneliness and isolation felt by so many people throughout the community, especially since the pandemic,” the group said.

“We are already collaborating with many other charities and organisations with the aim to improve the mental health of the residents in the community by providing opportunities to come together and engage in activities, regardless of age, ability, gender, sex, religious belief, or cultural background.

“Having a physical community garden to function out of will be a dream come true and an asset for the community for years to come.”

Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob said the

council had been impressed by the professionalism of the PCG submission and members’ passion to see the project come to fruition.

“The city is a big supporter of sustainability and community gardens have become increasingly popular places for residents to grow fruits and vegetables and to interact with the environment and fellow community members,” he said.

“These are highly effective spaces where like-minded individuals share knowledge, learn new skills and develop friendships and connections to the community.

“Community gardens promote positive mental health and physical wellbeing and I am confident this garden will be a success and the City will house more of these types of gardens in the future.”

“At our multiple planting days, the community has provided fantastic support to help us get so many plants in the ground. The results have been outstanding, with trees planted last year now over three metres tall.”

Since 2021, the project has involved a series of improvements by replacing grass with native plants in flood-prone areas, removing reticulation to conserve water and enhancing drainage at Sandon Park in Salter Point by using plants as bio-filters to improve water quality entering the river.

Other aspects of the project involved:

· Physical linking of three wetlands with native vegetation.

· Creating a seating area for residents to sit and relax in peaceful surrounds.

· Construction of a new path and informal tracks to provide access through the wetland while protecting plants and wildlife.

· Installation of 18 habitat structures including bird boxes, bat boxes and a bee hotel.

The City’s Acting Parks Coordinator

Paul Reed described the project as a fantastic success, saying native species planted at the beginning of the project have already grown to provide habitat for wildlife.

“At least 74 different species of birds live here, so this work has been vital in not only providing habitat but also protecting habitat for the future.

“We have been able to control weeds in the area, while establishing new native sedges and rushes, which will help to ensure the long-term success of this project.”

The Elderfield Wetlands Project is part of the city’s Clontarf-Waterford-Salter Point Foreshore Masterplan, which provides a consolidated management strategy recognising the ecological, cultural and recreational values of the area.

Progress in the wetlands.

The new van’s now on the road.

Councils go head-to-head

The Council Cup Clash was held on Saturday 26 August at the Katherine Showgrounds between the Beswick Bears, representing Roper Gulf Regional Council and the Timber Creek Lions, representing Victoria Daly Regional Council in a showdown game of Australian Rules Football.

This initiative aimed to foster collaboration, unity, and sportsmanship within the vibrant communities represented. In an effort to bring residents closer together and celebrate the spirit of teamwork, the two local councils joined forces to organise an exciting football game.

“We firmly believe that by working together, our two councils can achieve more for the people of the Roper Gulf and Vic Daly regions,” said Roper Gulf Regional Council CEO Marc Gardner.

“The Council Cup Clash is a testament to

our shared vision for stronger, more connected communities and it was great to see so many community members involved in the event.”

The football game not only promoted collaboration and unity but also emphasised the importance of sportsmanship among residents.

“Victoria Daly Council look forward to matches like this becoming an annual event that could include other community teams within our regions,” said Victoria Daly CEO Brian Hylands.

Both councils recognise the positive impact

sports can have on individuals and communities, fostering healthy competition, teamwork, and mutual respect.

Through this event, these values were evident in participants and spectators alike.

In addition to the football game, the Council Cup Clash also served as a platform to raise awareness and support for local programs and community projects.

Both councils are committed to giving back and ensuring that this event leaves a lasting positive impact on the communities they serve

with the continuation of team’s weekly trainings and ongoing support.

Roper Gulf Regional Council would like to thank Victoria Daly Regional Council for their collaboration and sportsmanship shown over the weekend and the weeks leading up to the event as well as AFL NT, Northern Territory Government and NIAA for their continued support of community lead programs.

At the final siren Timber Creek Lions defeated the Beswick Bears.

Euroa Magpies take out inaugural Cup

The home of Goulburn Valley Water’s Standpipe, Euroa, has been crowned the inaugural winner of the Greening Euroa Standpipe Cup.

The cup was presented to the winning A Grade netball and Senior Football sides at the weekend’s Goulburn Valley League clash of Euroa v Mansfield.

The Euroa Magpie’s netball and football sides took out the cup – which was a beautifully handcrafted wooden trophy donated by GV Water.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Laura Binks said it was a fantastic chance to advocate for the Greening Euroa Project.

“Euroa’s Memorial Oval, the home of the Euroa Magpies, is one of the many green spaces in the township that will ultimately benefit from the Greening Euroa project,” Cr Binks said.

“The week’s football and netball games demonstrates how important sport is for our community’s physical and mental wellbeing, as well as social connectedness.

“We want the spaces in Euroa that host important events to prosper into the future as we continue to face ongoing challenges with water supply issues.”

Cr Binks explained how the Greening Euroa project would drought-proof the township.

“The Greening Euroa Project is an innovative community driven project that will use recycled water to irrigate public green spaces during the summer months,” she said.

“It will use recycled water to irrigate our public green spaces. Something we know is essential to our community’s health and well-

being during times of drought.

“The proposal is the first of its kind in Victoria. It’s climate smart, cost efficient and community inspired.

“For the Euroa township, the Greening Euroa Project will keep our school ovals, sporting fields and parks and gardens green in the dry summer months.”

Goulburn Valley Water Manager Operations Steve Nash said the first Standpipe Cup was a great success in raising awareness of the Greening Euroa Project.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to highlight how alternate water sources, like recycled

water and our purple standpipes, can be key in helping keep recreation spaces green in sustainable ways,” Mr Nash said.

“Euroa and Mansfield are home to the first two recycled water standpipes in our region, and it was fantastic to see players, supporters and the community getting involved in the inaugural Cup.

“We hope to see it grow bigger and better each year, including seeing the development of a future Greening Mansfield project, and to showcase how beneficial recycled water can be in our communities as we face the impacts of a changing climate.”

GVL Board Chair Jacqui Hudgson said:

“Thank you to League Partners GV Water and Strathbogie Shire Council for being at our Euroa v Mansfield matches on the weekend.”

“GVL Board member Mick Williams was on hand to assist with the presentations of the Greening Euroa Standpipe Trophies. We are so pleased to partner with GV Water and council to spread the message about the Greening Euroa Project.

“This project will ensure the longevity of Euroa’s Memorial Oval which is a vital resource for the community of Euroa.”

The #LetsGreenEuroa campaign is currently advocating for the $3.8 million needed in funding to bring the project to fruition.

Players from Beswick Bears and Timber Creek Lions come together at the end of the game to thank all involved and congratulate the victors.

Beswick Bears and Timber Creek Lions with coaches and Australian Rules umpires before first bounce.

Roper Gulf Regional Council CEO Marc Gardner (left) and Victoria Daly Regional Council CEO Brian Hylands (right) with the Council Cup Clash Cup..

Success for the Magpies.