August - September 2013 edition of the council connection

COUNCIL

CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2013 ISSUE 55

INSIDE Do the right thing

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5 Crossroads works 2014 completion

7 Lilley's Beach vehicle access

12 Expansion plans for Stockland

MAYOR'S MESSAGE Still talking about Boomtown

Cover

Seniors jump for joy in excitement for this year's Seniors Week activities.

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Council Connection

This newsletter is produced by Gladstone Regional Council to give residents a bi-monthly update on Council events, activities, services and projects.

Delivery

Council Connection is delivered directly into all residential letterboxes

by Australia Post as “unaddressed mail” but is also available for viewing or downloading from Council’s website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au.

A little over two weeks later and so many people in the Gladstone Region community are still talking about Boomtown - and I am one of them!

Boomtown, the epic telling of the past 50 years of Gladstone's history, was an event not to be missed as we may not see the likes of it again.

The production was a veritable explosion of song and dance over four fantastic nights on the Gladstone Marina foreshore, with large and appreciative audiences taking in all the colour and movement on a scale the likes of which we had not previously seen in this region.

The largest Queensland Music Festival (QMF) project to date, Boomtown was the ultimate community musical, harnessing the region's wonderful artistic talent and placing it in the hands of a professional director, composer, writer,

Cost

choreographer, producers and designers.

Dedicated to the memory of the late Cyril Golding, whose hard work and unmatched generosity during his extraordinary life made such a long-lasting contribution to the Gladstone Region, the end result was worthy of his legacy.

An amazing set, beautiful floating sculptures on the marina waters, hi-viz zombies and that unforgettable fire-breathing dragon all contributed to an event that will live long in the memories of all who attended.

Council is proud to have presented Boomtown to Gladstone Region residents, working with QMF and supported by QUT Creative Industries Faculty and local sponsors to provide an unforgettable experience that will be talked about for years to come.

With the redeveloped Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre soon to open its doors to the public, Boomtown also signalled the dawn of an exciting era in entertainment for the Gladstone Region.

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Council Connection is automatically delivered free of charge to households in the Gladstone Region who have a residential letterbox. Cost of printing and distributing the newsletter is 49.2 cents per household per edition.

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Environmental Impacts

Council Connection is printed on Revive Pure Silk 100% Recycled is certified carbon neutral and FSC 100% Recycled certified. It is manufactured process chlorine free (PCF) by an ISO 14001 certified mill.

Council Contacts

Mail: PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Phone: 4970 0700 Fax: 4975 8500 A/Hrs Emergency Phone: 4979 1134

Gladstone Office 101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Qld 4680

Calliope Office

5 Don Cameron Drive, Calliope Qld 4680

Miriam Vale Office 36 Roe Street, Miriam Vale Qld 4677

Contents

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5 Calliope Crossroads work Motorists will soon use a temporary traffic formation at the Crossroads during intersection upgrade works.

7 Obey parking signs Residents are reminded they risk being fined if they ignore Council parking signs.

11 Blackmans Gap Road The range section of Blackmans Gap Road is closed to all traffic until September to stabilise land slips on the side of the range.

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Over 55s are encouraged to join in 2013 Senior Week celebrations.

Seniors Week tailors activities to over 55s Program of regional events available August 5 Council will host Seniors Week activities across the region from August 17 to 25.

A varied program of activities and events is being organised tailored for residents aged 55 years and over.

Highlights of this year's Seniors Week program include a talent quest, concerts, tours and workshops.

Events will be held at various regional

locations with some on weekends or outside working hours to cater for those in employment or who are unavailable during normal business hours.

Seniors Week aims to provide residents with an opportunity to develop new skills, receive recognition for talents and abilities, become more active, build new friendships, and access quality activities while having fun.

Book now for next round of CouncillorConnect visits scheduled across the region CouncillorConnect visits will continue in August and September at various locations throughout the region.

This month’s visits are scheduled for Thursday, August 29 at Benaraby, Agnes Water, Many Peaks and Rosedale.

Visits are scheduled for the last Thursday of each month to provide residents of some of the region’s smaller communities with an opportunity to meet with elected representatives.

September 26 visits are planned for Seventeen Seventy, Nagoorin, Ambrose and Gladstone.

Councillors attend in pairs for morning tea and a chat session from 9.30am and are then available from 10.15am to 12pm, for 20-minute pre-booked, individual appointments.

Residents or community groups wanting to book an appointment with Councillors can send a request to councillorconnect@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au outlining the issue, concern or idea, or phone Council’s Communications and Marketing section on 4970 0700.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

The 2013 Seniors Week program will be available from Gladstone Regional Libraries, on Council's website at http:// www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/web/guest/ seniors-week or via email from August 5.

Activity bookings will be taken from August 5 by contacting the Gladstone Community Advisory Service on phone 4976 6300.

Regional Visits Schedule Thursday, August 29, 2013 Benaraby

Benaraby Progress Hall

Agnes Water

Sandcastles Motel and Resort

Many Peaks

Many Peaks Hotel

Rosedale

Rosedale Memorial Hall

Thursday, September 26, 2013 Seventeen Seventy

Seventeen Seventy SES Building

Nagoorin

Nagoorin Progress Hall

Ambrose

Ambrose CWA Hall

Gladstone

Council Civic Centre Boardroom

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Wrong waste spoils esplanade beauty Do the right thing, use the right bin Recycling contamination is tainting the efforts of responsible waste disposal.

Council's waste contractor has reported a disappointing rise in incorrect rubbish disposal, occurring particularly at Millennium Esplanade, Tannum Sands.

New waste and recycling bins were installed this year to promote recycling and correct management of waste.

Information stickers and distinctive caps on bins aim to encourage residents and visitors to support the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection's waste campaign slogan to 'Do the Right Thing Use the Right Bin'.

But despite efforts, recycling bins are inadvertently being contaminated with food scraps, and even fish frames.

This causes any material which has been correctly placed in the recycling bins to be contaminated and requires all recycling bin contents to then be disposed of as rubbish.

Bin users are encouraged to help eliminate recycling contamination by taking time to ensure waste is being disposed of in the correct bin.

Kristie Taylor promotes how easy it is to recycle.

Water project benefits already flowing through to residents Project protects environment and water resources The Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy Integrated Water Project is not yet complete, but residents in the area are already benefitting from its introduction.

The project, consisting of the construction of a seawater desalination plant, the installation of a reticulation system and the building of a new waste water treatment plant, aims to solve the growing Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy area's water supply limitations.

Project contractor TRILITY has completed construction and commissioning of the Seventeen Seventy water distribution network and the wastewater collection system.

Property owners are now in the process of connecting to Council's sewerage collection system, eliminating the need for disposal trenches on private properties

and providing a safe and environmentally sustainable sewerage solution for residents.

Having a potable supply of water readily available has also provided security of supply to these properties.

The new wastewater treatment plant has been treating all collected sewerage since mid-April 2013 with final optimisation and commissioning of the equipment and process being completed over coming months.

The benefits of this integrated project are literally flowing ahead.

When completed, the project will alleviate Council concerns that water resources would be exhausted and the surrounding environment irreversibly harmed within the Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy area.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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The Calliope Crossroads project is anticipated for completion in early 2014.

Crossroads work scheduled for early 2014 completion Highway interchange to become largest in regional Queensland Calliope Crossroads intersection alterations will create the largest highway interchange in regional Queensland when complete.

Golding Contractors Pty Ltd was awarded the Transport and Main Roads contract in July 2012 with the federally funded project part of the Federal Government's Nation Building Program.

The overall Calliope Crossroads project, anticipated for completion in

early 2014, aims to provide significant safety improvement and decrease traffic congestion at the intersection.

This will be achieved by widening and realignment of the Dawson Highway to four lanes under the Bruce Highway with reconstruction and realignment of 3.5km of Bruce Highway.

The finished project will include two 64m long bridge overpasses and on/ off ramps controlled by signalled

intersections.

This will allow an increase in the speed limit in this area from 60km/h to 100km/h on the Bruce Highway.

Dedicated pedestrian and cyclist pathways will also be formed adjacent to the Dawson Highway.

More information on the project can be viewed at www.tmr.qld.gov.au

Motorists to use temporary traffic formation at Crossroads Operations similar to a large roundabout Major traffic diversions will occur at the Calliope Crossroads intersection in late August or early September as the next phase of construction starts.

A new diamond-shape interchange configuration will be in use for about five months while further works progress.

Stage one of the State Government works have involved construction of new on/off ramps, substructure for overpass bridges and reconstruction of parts of the Bruce and Dawson Highway.

The major traffic changes will enable works to continue in the central part of the interchange on construction of the Bruce Highway overpass and intersections.

All traffic will be diverted to the new

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

on/off ramps with the temporary traffic configuration operating like a large 'roundabout' with designated turning lanes at the north and south end of the interchange.

Normal road and give-way rules will apply with motorists urged to follow all traffic control directions and drive to the changed conditions when passing through the project.

This is the first of two traffic switches necessary throughout construction of the new interchange with the second to occur closer to the project's completion.

Calliope Crossroads project queries can be directed to the project team's Community Liaison representative on 0427 584 247 or email CCAI. enquiries@golding.com.au

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BRIEFLY  Council meetings

 Change of address

Did you know that residents are welcome to attend Gladstone Regional Council's general meetings? The meetings are held at the Gladstone Administration Centre boardroom, 101 Goondoon Street. Upcoming meeting dates are August 6, August 20, September 3, September 17 and October 1. Agendas and minutes can be found at Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au at meeting time.

Did you know that you can notify several Council services of your change of residential and/or mailing address by filling out just one form? Council cannot change addresses over the phone, but a form is available by visiting our website at www.gladstone. qld.gov.au and clicking on the 'About Council' tab, then 'Finance' and choose the 'Change of Address Form'.

 Agnes Water High School Council has received several customer enquiries about the development of a high school at Agnes Water. Council's Planning department received the initial development application in March 2013 and are working with the prospective developer to progress their application through the appropriate channels.

 Development stats Council provides development statistics at the click of a mouse on its website. Visit www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/web/ guest/development-statistics to find out the latest major development snapshot; monthly development statistics; and building and plumbing approvals.

 Lodge an event Does your not-for-profit or community organisation have

an upcoming event? Events can be lodged on Council's community calendar by clicking on the calendar link on our website and following the prompts. Visit www.gladstone. qld.gov.au

 Road reports Log on to Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au if you want to find out the latest regional road condition reports. If you come across flood water or would like to report road conditions for uploading to the website, please phone our Call Centre, open 24 hours a day, on 4979 1134 or Council's administration centres during business hours on 4970 0700.

 RSS feed Want to keep up-to-date with the latest Gladstone Regional Council news? Create a link to Council's RSS feed by clicking on the icon on Council's website home page. Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au

 Subscribe to eNewsletter In addition to a hard copy newsletter, Gladstone Regional Council also produces a fortnightly email newsletter called eConnect. Residents are invited to register to receive it via their email address.

Recipients' emails will be kept in a database and residents can unsubscribe at any time.

To subscribe visit www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/web/ guest/econnect-newsletter or email communications@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

 Website for volunteers Gladstone Region Volunteering is an online volunteer recruitment website that links residents to organisations in need of volunteers. Residents can search available volunteer positions or nominate themselves for future roles by visiting Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au and following the volunteering link under the 'Community Support' tab.

Councillor Update Cr Ren Lanzon

Cr Graham McDonald

Phone: 0417 732 640 Email: renlanzon@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Phone: 0409 730 469 Email: grahamm@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Arts and Culture

Portfolio: Parks and Recreation

My portfolio deals with the very soul of Gladstone Region - the visual and the performing arts; our culture and our recreation are the things that make us grow. Industries are good for jobs and the economy. But Gladstone people are not economic units. We have a soul. Within my portfolio is the Gladstone Entertainment Centre, to reopen under its new name The Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre. The count down has begun. Work being undertaken upgrades and expands that facility to accommodate for seminars, community and private functions, and expos. That is when it will begin to pay for itself.

New things are happening at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum too. Recently the Young Dancers Company presented Power Soup, a fusion of the performing and visual arts, the first of the new uses for the gallery. Meanwhile, Council is also improving library services in the city and throughout the region.

Twenty-five years after it first opened its gates to the public, the Tondoon Botanic Gardens remain a valuable asset for the Gladstone Region community. Not only are the Gardens the ideal relaxation venue, with a café, barbecues and picnic areas surrounded by beautiful rainforest, they are also an important educational facility for our younger generation. This is made evident by the recent revamp of the 'Lessons in the Gardens' environmental education program for school students from Prep through to Year 6, made possible by a $10,000 sponsorship from Rio Tinto Alcan Yarwun. The environment and its future management are important facets of a modern education and the Gardens will, to an even greater degree than in the past, serve as an outdoor classroom where children are taught about various ecosystems in a hands-on manner. For more information about Lessons in the Gardens or other Gardens facilities and events, phone the Visitor Services Officer on 4971 4443.

All Councillors contact details are available from Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au under the 'About Council' tab.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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LOCAL LAWS

Local Law Enforcement officers may issue fines for parking infringements.

Ignore parking regulations and you may be fined Motorists risk fines by ignoring Council parking signs Park in an inappropriate manner and you may incur an unwelcome fine.

Under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management - Road Rules) Regulation 2009 (Local Law No.5), Gladstone Regional Council manages and regulates several parking spaces within the Gladstone Region.

These include timed parking bays, zoned parking, 'no stopping' bays, 'stopping on a continuous yellow line' and other parking offences indicated on a sign authorised by Council.

Regulated parking infringements attract fines of between $55 and $110 with Council's Local Law Enforcement officers authorised to issue on-the-spot fines to motorists who ignore the permitted signs.

The most commonly issued infringements are for motorists parking for longer than the time indicated on a permissive parking sign, and those who illegally park in loading, bus and taxi zones and disabled car parks.

The purpose of parking controls is to enhance public safety and to provide turnover of available parking spaces to

increase access for customers to local businesses.

Motorists who have been issued with an infringement notice are able to contest an infringement in writing or elect to have the matter heard in a court hearing.

Those who have received an infringement notice for an action performed in their vehicle by another driver are required to submit a Statutory Declaration from the person who was in charge of the vehicle at the time of the offence, or from the owner with the offender's full name, contact number and address.

Lilley's Beach vehicle access Permits needed Lilley's Beach is a popular destination for Gladstone Region residents and visitors, but it must be remembered that permits are required for vehicles to access the area.

Permits cost $25 per year or $5 per week and are available from Council's administration centres at Calliope and Gladstone or the Boyne Tannum Community Centre.

Under Subordinate Local Law 1.20, beach permits are not transferrable; therefore, if the applicant wishes to change vehicles, a new permit must be obtained.

Vehicles must remain on the beach between the high and low tide marks at all times in order to avoid damaging the area's sensitive vegetation.

Drivers are asked to respect pedestrians and animals on the beach by keeping their speed to below 40 km/h and sounding their horn when approaching.

Motor bikes are prohibited at Lilley's Beach.

The maximum penalty for offences at Lilley's Beach is $500 and Council officers regularly patrol the area.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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august

EVENTS CALENDAR AUGUST 1

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

10am - Noon Gladstone City Library The welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea is held monthly, allowing newcomers to find out more about the Gladstone Region. For more information phone 4976 6300.

General Council Meeting 9am 101 Goondoon Street Gladstone Community members are welcome to attend Council’s General Meetings.

Community Information Session Various times 10 Tank Street Council, in partnership with Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours, will host two information sessions for new and existing residents. The August 2 session, from 10am to 11am, will focus on laws and regulations and the August 15 session, from 10am to noon, will outline all there is to know about employment around the Gladstone Region. Bookings are essential phone Luis on 4676 6352.

gladstone.qld.gov.au and click on the 'Events' link under the 'Gladstone Region' tab.

Senior Talent Star Quest

Various days and various times Gladstone Region residents over the age of 55 can enjoy a week of free fun-filled activities. For more information visit www.

Various days and various times If you are over 55 and can sing, dance or play an instrument, then it is time for you to register for Gladstone Regional Council's first-ever Senior Talent Star Quest as part of Seniors Week 2013.

For more information visit www. gladstone. qld.gov. au and click on the 'Events' link under the 'Gladstone Region' tab.

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17

Councillor Community Awareness Session

2 & 15

9am - Noon Stockland Gladstone Councillors are available to discuss any issues, topics or concerns that residents may have.

17 - 25

Seniors Week 2013

september

SEPTEMBER 5

6 & 20

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

10am - Noon Gladstone City Library The Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea is held monthly, allowing newcomers to find out more about the Gladstone Region.

For more information phone 4976 6300.

3 & 17

General Council Meeting

Community Information Session

10am - noon 10 Tank Street Council, in partnership with Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours, will host an information session for new and existing residents focusing on transport around the Gladstone Region. Bookings are essential phone Luis on 4676 6352.

Councillor Community Awareness Sessions 9am - Noon Stockland Gladstone Councillors are available to discuss any issues, topics or concerns that residents may have.

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Great Northern Clean Up

9am 101 Goondoon Street Gladstone Community members are welcome to attend Council’s General Meetings.

Residents can register their sites at http:// www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/about/ about-the-event/great-northern-clean-up

Don’t Let Your Best Friend Stay Out in the Cold Microchipping Reunites Lost Pets With Their Owners

part of

Seniors Week August 17 to 25

It’s time to strut your stuff in the Gladstone Region’s first ever Talent Quest for Over 55s.

Get your act together, get your singing voice warmed up, your instrument out and your dancing shoes pumped - This is going to be a fabulous experience!

TS ALL AND ANY AC ARE WELCOME!

OUPS SOLOS, DUETS, GR SHINE, ANCE TO THIS IS YOUR CH COME ALIVE! YOUR CHANCE TO

TED HEATS HAVE STAR

1ST PRIZE

Weekend for two Mecure Capricorn Resort incl 2 nights accomm and $300 room credit, valued at $800

2ND PRIZE

2014 Morning Melodies Season Pass for two people valued at $150

3RD PRIZE

Dinner for two at Scotties bar & Restaurant valued at $100

Encouragement Award

6 months subscription to the observer 6 days a week valued at $213.20

To register, call Darlene Clarke on 4976 6948 or go to www.gladstone.qld.gov.au

regular features

REGULAR FEATURES School Holiday Activities

Various days and various times Across all Council facilities Council will be hosting various school holiday activities across all facilities. For more information visit the 'School Holiday Activities' page, via the 'Events' link under the 'About Gladstone Region' tab.

Free Guided Walks Thursdays from 10am - 11.30am Tondoon Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre Free guided walks are available every Thursday morning, departing and arriving at the Visitors Centre. Contact Heather on 4971 4443.

Story Time Various Days and Various times Regional Libraries Story time and crafts for children aged up to five years. Bookings not required.

For more information contact your local library. Contact details can be found by visiting www.gladstone.qld.gov.au, under the ‘Gladstone Regional Libraries’ link.

Baby Bounce Various Days and Various times Regional Libraries A lap-sit program is being held for a

parent and their child less than two years old. This program includes songs and rhymes. Bookings are not required.

Contact details can be found by visiting www.gladstone.qld.gov.au, under the ‘Gladstone Regional Libraries’ link.

Learn to Swim 9am - 6pm Weekdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre Gladstone Aquatic Centre is offering a progressive Learn to Swim program.

Contact the Gladstone Aquatic Centre on 4972 6822.

Happy Hour 8am - 9am Weekdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre This program allows pensioners (over 60) to use the Aquatic Centre for free to encourage staying fit and active. Phone 4972 6822 for more information.

Library Square Performances Every Friday, noon – 2pm and Saturday night, 6pm – 8pm.

Library Square Goondoon Street Gladstone If you’re looking for something to do, come down and enjoy the free live and local music. Phone 4972 2822 for more information.

QUEENSLAND MICROCHIPPING TOUR

$25 Microchipping Don’t Miss Out!

Saturday, 10 August: William Miskin Park, Gladstone Sunday, 11 August: Seventeen Seventy SES Grounds 9am - 2pm Bookings essential 1300 734 738 www.petregister.com.au/events

In the Ring

Fri, August 16, 6.30pm GEC Marina Marquee

ional dinner with a Come along to an inspirat Lewis. For more than legendary Australian Jonny Lewis has been an nny Joh n" ma 50 years, "Gentle itution, he has inst An Australian boxing legend. them, Jeff ong am s, ion mp cha trained 5 world Join us for yu.

Tsz tya Fenech, Jeff Harding and Kos plus the launch of nny Joh h wit ner an inspiring din heavyweight boxing Harbour City Havoc 2, the 16 in the new ber vem No ay title fights on Frid Entertainment Centre.

Morning Melodies Tues, August 20, 11am GEC Marina Marquee

after hit songs which Showstoppers features hit oughout the concert. will be sung and danced thr at You Again", "If ze Ga I e Songs include "Befor m Camelot, as well Ever I would leave you" fro Boyfriend, "Sun & the m as "The Charlston" fro "Bring Him Home" from Moon" from Miss Saigon, nce" from Crazy for Da we Les Miserables, "Shall ute to 42nd street by You as well as a stunning trib his own on London’s de ma he Philip Gould, which Westend.

Possum Magic

, 11.30am & Monday, Sept 2, 9.30am rquee Ma 1.30pm, GEC Marina

puppets, and a cast of Featuring larger than life size story of Hush the the multi-talented performers, ishly embellished into a styl n bee has , sum pos e littl plete with lamingtons, rollicking Aussie musical, com es. Don’t miss this ich dw san pavlovas and vegemite get to bring along a for ’t don and r tou final farewell big box of tissues!

2014 Agnes Blues & Roots Festival r 2, 2014 Thur, Feb 27 - Sun, Ma

use to make a big blues If you ever needed an exc this is it! The Agnes se, adi weekend of it in par tival experience just Water Blues and Roots Fes added an extra day, 've keeps getting better. We es, in fact, more of more bands and more stag e. everything except the pric

ld.gov.au www.gec.gladstonerc.q Ph: 4972 2822 ok.com/ facebook: www.facebo entre entC GladstoneEntertainm

SUSTAINABLE LIVING Choosing the right lights can save you money With the price of electricity on the rise, lighting is one area where considerable energy and costs can be saved.

The fact is most residents could reduce the amount of energy used for lighting by 50 per cent simply by making smarter choices and adopting more efficient technologies.

The phasing out of the traditional but inefficient incandescent light bulbs in Australia will reduce energy use with more efficient types of lighting now on the market.

Curtis Zimmerlie with items delivered to the e-waste collection point at Benaraby Landfill.

Recycle undamaged computers and televisions at Council waste facilities Program offers free drop off Regional residents can now deliver undamaged televisions and computers to free drop off and recycling collection areas at Council's Gladstone, Benaraby and Agnes Water waste management facilities.

companies to comply with relevant regulations, standards and codes of practice.

Unwanted electronic devices are known as e-waste; and nationally are increasing three times faster than other types of waste items.

• Personal computers and computer products;

If not disposed of correctly, damaged or wet electronic devices can release toxic substances into the environment.

TechCollect is a government approved recycling program focused on the environmentally sound collection and recycling of e-waste for small business and the general public.

Council has partnered with TechCollect to support this not-for-profit initiative which helps divert material from landfill and allows for the recovery and reprocessing of glass, plastics and metals for the manufacture of other products.

The TechCollect program works closely with reputable recyclers and transport

Items eligible for e-waste recycling include:

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) are the most energy efficient of these options.

The use of natural lighting via welldesigned windows or skylights is the most energy efficient way to light a home and the use of solar lighting in the garden can also create significant savings.

For more information visit the Australian Government's Living Greener website at http://www. livinggreener.gov.au/energy/lighting

• Any brand of desktop, laptop, notebooks, palmtops and tablets; • Monitors and projectors; • Computer peripherals eg computer mouse, keyboards, cables, joysticks, game-pads, scanners, web cameras; • Drives, computer-related parts, accessories and cables; • Home office equipment, scanners, printers including ink-jet, dot matrix, laser and multi-functional devices; and • Televisions.

For more information on what can and cannot be dropped off visit www. techcollect.com.au

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS

Council's Charlie Sotiris near stockpiles of concrete diverted from landfill before conversion to concrete aggregate.

Waste modified and adapted to serve new purposes Green waste and concrete diverted from landfill trailer or utility, is free for disposal.

from July 1 last year to June 30, 2013.

Reduced disposal rates apply for separated recyclable material, essentially to offset handling and processing costs.

The Benaraby Landfill site demonstrates sustainability and adaptability by converting green waste into free mulch for residents and producing two grades of crushed material with aggregates used on roadways and for erosion control purposes.

Concrete aggregate about 100mm in diameter can be purchased at $10/tonne and is ideal as drainage material behind retaining walls.

Green waste from domestic premises, in volumes no greater than a single axle

Council diverted about 12,556 tonnes of concrete from the waste stream for re-use

Not everything delivered to Benaraby Landfill is discarded as waste with the site providing for the disposal and reuse of timber, green waste and used concrete.

Enquiries can be directed to Council's Waste Services section on 4970 0700.

Blackmans Gap Road range section currently closed The range section of Blackmans Gap Road is closed to all traffic until September.

No public access is permitted through the works area during the restoration period.

Work on the 750m road section, located about 19.5km from its connection with the Bruce Highway, is necessary to allow for stabilisation of land slips on the side of the range.

Motorists are required to use alternative routes via Calliope, Gin Gin or Monto to travel between the Bruce Highway and the Gladstone-Monto Road.

The works are part of 2011-12 flood restoration contract works and involve specialised works including soil nailing, installation of rock fall netting and rock bolting.

Work updates can be accessed at Gladstone Regional Council's website via the link http://www.gladstone.qld. gov.au/web/guest/blackmans-gap-roadclosure

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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DEVELOPMENT SNAPSHOT

Artist's impressions of the proposed Stockland Gladstone Kmart/Coles redevelopment.

Plans under way for expansion of Stockland Gladstone Design includes latest Kmart, Coles, full line Target and 100 speciality stores Residents will have a wider choice of shopping if the Stockland Gladstone redevelopment receives development approval.

The application is now with relevant State Government departments, as concurrence agencies, to ensure the application meets relevant requirements.

Retail developer Stockland lodged a development application with Gladstone Regional Council in December 2012 for a complete redevelopment of the West Mall which currently includes Kmart, Coles and Target Country.

Part of the State's consideration will be traffic solutions for the Kin Kora roundabout.

Council's Planning department has been liaising with Stockland as part of the progression of the development assessment process.

If the proposal be approved, the construction of the development will be staged over three years and, on completion, will boast a new, two-storey shopping centre with the lower level made up of around 1300 shaded car parks.

It will include the latest Kmart and Coles new format stores and a full line Target, 100 speciality shops and two mini major retailers, with a total gross floor area of over 30,000 square metres.

Stockland estimates the project will cost $150 million.

On the opposite side of Dawson Highway, the Stockland Gladstone Shopping Centre East Mall is already undergoing a $6 million expansion which will include several additional tenancies.

Accommodating future growth The Gladstone Region's current population of 65,000 is expected to grow to more than 111,000 over the next 18 years.

If the region is to accommodate this influx of residents, an average of an additional 900 dwelling units will be required to be approved each year.

Council is encouraging the provision of residential accommodation in a variety of forms to meet the varying needs of

existing and future residents.

The provision of residential units and townhouses within the Gladstone Region has historically been low compared to other urban centres in Queensland.

Throughout the mid 2000s to 2011, units typically resembled 16-17 per cent of new housing stock.

In more recent times, this figure has risen to around 25 per cent; in addition

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

to the approval of 1073 houses in the 2012-13 financial year.

To ensure the balance between growth and the community's desires are achieved, Gladstone Regional Council is progressing its new amalgamated planning scheme.

Council's strategic planning officers are working through the intensive project which began in 2009. It will, ultimately govern the region's future development.

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COMMUNITY LIVING Boyne Tannum Sports Park takes shape The Boyne Tannum Sports Park is moving closer to realisation with the delivery of 30,000m3 of fill to the Tannum Sands site.

The fill will be used to complete the project's bulk earth works resulting in the construction of fields, spectator mounds and a car park.

All project designs have been completed and Council's Sport and Recreation officers are in the process of confirming development requirements.

Thee operational works permit is to be finalised soon.

The first construction to get under way will include the lighting of field, toilets, kiosk, and storage facilities.

The entire precinct, including a hockey field, and purpose-built athletics oval and field event areas, is expected to be completed by April next year, weather permitting.

Local Laws Officers Clare Stretton and Tamara Brumby with Macca.

The Boyne Tannum Sports Park master plan allows for future expansion, including the construction of football (soccer) facilities to relocate the Boyne Tannum Football Club.

Microchipping and ID tag help reunite pet

Council officers help save Macca's life Local Laws officer Clare Stretton embarked on a house call in July, with an unexpected twist.

Arriving at the scene Clare met an adorable, mix breed female dog Macca, who was distressed and showed very little movement.

Due to Macca's state Clare believed the dog had been hit by a vehicle and, in such cases with specialised equipment needed, Local Laws' officer Tamara Brumby was called to assist.

When Tamara arrived, Macca still had no upper body movement, though she did continuously wag her tail.

On closer inspection, the officers found Macca had a choker chain around her neck, which was caught in a join in the footpath, pinning her head to the ground.

The choker chain continued to twist with Macca's every movement, cutting off her air supply.

Clare retrieved bolt cutters from a nearby residence and Tamara cut the chain to set Macca free.

Macca was checked over and received the all clear before being returned to her owner.

Fortunately, Macca was microchipped and had an ID tag which allowed the Council officers to immediately contact the owner.

This situation outlines the dangers associated with the use of choker chains and Council encourages residents to only use them if needed.

Initially the good news of Macca being microchipped took a turn for the worse when Tamara and Clare were unable to get Macca on to a pet stretcher.

Choker chains are suitable for walking animals in public however around the home collars should be used to allow an animal to move around without harm.

For some reason, unknown to the officers at the time, Macca's head was restricting her from being moved.

For more information about choker chains and requirements call Council's Local Laws department on 4970 0700.

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YOUTH UPDATE Initiatives target 18 - 24 year olds Council's Youth Section is seeking to trial initiatives to engage with youth in the 18 to 24 year age bracket.

A variety of activities are hosted for youth aged 12 to 17 years but Council is keen to engage the older youth cohort and provide diverse items of interest.

Initiatives, ideas and information session topics relevant to youth aged 18 to 24 years are welcomed by Council's Youth Development Officer Vernetta Perrett on 4976 6300.

Tanya Smallcombe and Jillian Maynard explain some of the finer points of financial planning to Council's Youth Development Officer Vernetta Perrett.

Youth encouraged to consider options to make their money work Free information session for 18 to 24 year olds A free, one-hour information session to be held in Gladstone will benefit youth aged 18 to 24 years interested in money matters.

The session, scheduled for Thursday, August 29, will be hosted by Council's Youth Department in partnership with Gladstone's Cooper & Associates.

The financial information is tailored to youth interested in changing their spending ways and is ideal for 18 to 24 year olds who answer 'yes' to any of the following questions: • Do you earn an income and then

party or spend your money on trivial things?

• Are you keen to save money to buy your first house?

• Do you want to know how to invest your money to work for you?

The free session will be held at Harvey Road Tavern, Harvey Road, Gladstone from 7pm with attendees required to purchase their own meal prior to the financial information session and question time from 8pm to 9pm.

Limited spaces are available with bookings essential through the Community Advisory Service on 4976 6300.

Discovery Coast youth enjoy the opportunities Council provides them to be involved in their community.

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ARTS & CULTURE Youth art to be unveiled in annual Golding Showcase The 2013 Golding Showcase Port Curtis Callide Valley Youth Art Exhibition will be unveiled on August 12 at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum.

Senior art students from local schools have submitted works for this exhibition.

Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum Society late patron, Cyril Golding originally helped initiate this opportunity for the community and this year his widow, Shirley Golding, will continue his legacy.

Each year a different school is invited to partner with the Gallery/Museum to help install the exhibition.

Anthony Wright charges his mobile phone while preparing to study in the comfort of the Gladstone City Library.

Libraries have reasons to celebrate Ten years since Library Square premises opened Gladstone regional libraries have plenty to celebrate including commemorating 10 years since the city library moved to its Library Square premises.

The former library (now Council's Community Advisory Service) proved too small to service the growing population.

Library membership rose when the new facility opened in September 2003 offering larger spaces and sitting areas.

The city library then serviced the population of Gladstone City and adapted its services when amalgamation with surrounding shires occurred in 2008.

The regional library service now encompasses six libraries - Agnes Water, Boyne Island, Calliope, Gladstone, Miriam Vale and Mt Larcom with a total stock of about 129,000 items.

Regional library collections have grown and evolved in the past decade; from offering more conventional library resources of books, magazines, DVDs and CDs to

providing Wi-Fi access, mobile phone charging stations, eAudiobooks and eBooks.

Coming soon are two more digital resources - Zinio (magazines online) and Indieflix (short films and independent movies).

All Gladstone Regional Library members now also have access to eBooks.

This year, Chanel College students had the opportunity to learn correct artwork handling skills and curatorial practice.

Fresh ideas and innovative concepts ensure that this exhibition is always popular with the region's residents and visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work as part of the '2013 People's Choice'.

The chosen work will become the face of the publicity material for next year's exhibition.

The display will be open for the public to view from August 8 to September 7, 2013.

The eBooks are available via the BorrowBox app which is available free from either the App Store or Google Play.

The convenient system allows you to borrow, download and enjoy eBooks regardless of your location.

Adult, children's and young adult books are available with 10 eBooks able to be borrowed at one time.

To utilise the eBook service a Gladstone Regional Library membership number and password is required to start downloading.

Read more about Gladstone Regional Library services at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection August - September 2013

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Gladstone Regional Council

Australia Day 2014

COMMUNITY EVENTS GRANTS Sh a re in th e A u st ra li a Da y fu n Run an event in your community

es within the Funding grants available to communiti Gladstone Region* w.gladstone.qld.

To find out more or to apply, visit ww under the 'About gov.au and following the 'Events' link e page or phone the Gladstone Region' tab on the hom 4977 6513.

Applications close October 31, 2013.

*Subject to conditions

GLADSTONE REGION

AUSTRALIA DAY

AWARDS 2014

NEW AWARD CATEGORIES

NOMINATE

NOW

NOMINATIONS CLOSE

OCTOBER 31, 2013 Do you know someone who has excelled at sport, done something for others or are active contributors to our community?

Why not have them recognised by Gladstone Regional Council and the community by nominating them for a 2014 Australia Day Award?

To nominate, either request a nomination form by emailing communications@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au or complete an online application at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au and follow the link under the 'About the Gladstone Region' and 'Event' drop down menus.

Phone Jess Cullen on 4977 6513 for more information.