Council Connection April-May 2014

COUNCIL

CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER APRIL - MAY 2014 ISSUE 59

INSIDE Donations Program Opens

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7 Pet registration inspections start

11 Road works across region

13 Free vaccinations available for students

MAYOR'S MESSAGE Multihulls to contest their 50th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, and accompanying Harbour Festival, is arguably the most exciting time of the year within the Gladstone Region.

Cover

Mobile phone app MyParx makes life easy for visitors to several of Council's parks.

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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.

Cost

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.

People come to Gladstone from throughout Queensland and interstate to attend the festival, originally created to welcome home sailors competing in the race, which has grown to such a degree that it is now a major event in its own regard.

However, the festival's expansion has not diminished the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race's status as one of Australia's most popular bluewater sailing events.

I will have the privilege of being present at both the start and finish of the race again this year and encourage as many people as possible to get down to Gladstone Marina

to welcome the crews to the city over the Easter long weekend.

This year's race is the 66th in Brisbane to Gladstone history, but it will also occupy a special place in that rich tapestry.

Although predominantly a monohull event, the 2014 event will also be the 50th in its history of multihull competition.

I can't wait to see how this year's race unfolds with overall race honours and line honours always keenly contested across all divisions.

The race starts at Shorncliffe on Good Friday, April 18 with the first monohulls to complete the 308 nautical mile course early the following day and the first multihulls expected even earlier.

The race, and the Harbour Festival itself, would not exist without the wonderful work of volunteers and I thank them for their efforts to ensure the continued success of this wonderful event.

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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

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Contents 4 Community Donations Program The 2014-15 funding round of Gladstone Regional Council's Community Donations Program is now open.

11 Disposal of Asbestos Council requires an application for accepting asbestos materials for disposal.

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12 Caravans in backyards Council cracks down on caravans being used as a permanent place of residence in neighbourhood backyards.

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Modern technology to minimise signage pollution in parklands Mobile phone app MyParx makes life easy for park visitors Information on Gladstone Region's parklands is now available at the tap of a mobile phone screen.

Council is taking advantage of modern technology by using mobile app MyParx to promote some of its major local parks.

Millennium Esplanade and Tondoon Botanic Gardens both feature on MyParx with Council set to add Barney Point and Friend Parks to the list in 2014.

Their addition to the MyParx app is part of Council's Barney Point Foreshore

Redevelopment project and is aimed at eliminating "sign pollution" at both sites.

parks following the completion of this process.

Plans have been made to place the MyParx application symbol at strategic locations within the two parklands, encouraging visitors to use the free app.

The MyParx mobile app lets you find and explore local, state and national parks, and includes interactive maps and up-todate information detailing what facilities are available at each park. A selection of parks from around the world is also included on the app.

The heritage values, cultural significance and general information on both parks will be uploaded to the MyParx site.

Users simply search for parks by keywords or can choose to browse by key features.

Council is looking to upload information on its regional and district parks first and will move to its local neighbourhood

CouncillorConnect Schedule Residents in the region's smaller communities will have the chance to meet with Councillors over morning tea and book individual meetings during the upcoming rounds of CouncillorConnect visits.

CouncillorConnect visits have been running for more than two years and enable regional residents to connect with Councillors in their townships and discuss issues relevant to their lives or their communities. The visits are conducted on the last Thursday of each month and involve Councillors visiting individually or in pairs for morning tea between 9.30am and 10.15am, followed by individual meetings of 20 minutes in duration between 10.15am and noon with residents who have pre-booked.

All residents are welcome to attend the morning teas and appointment bookings can be made by phoning Council's Communication and Marketing Unit on 4970 0700.

Councillor Information Booths Councillors will also host a Councillor Information Booth at Boyne Plaza on April 24 and IGA Calliope on May 29, between 9.30am and noon on each of the days. The booths allow residents to chat with their elected representatives and collect Council information while out shopping.

The Stockland Gladstone (Kin Kora) Councillor Information Booth is held on the third Saturday of each month as well.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

Thursday, April 24 Morning tea - 9.30am to 10.15am. Pre-booked 20 min appointments with Councillors 10.15am - noon.

Raglan

Raglan QCWA Hall

Many Peaks Grand Hotel Rosedale

Rosedale Memorial Hall

Thursday, May 29 Morning tea - 9.30am to 10.15am. Pre-booked 20 min appointments with Councillors 10.15am - noon.

Yarwun

Yarwun Hall

Bororen

Bororen State School Community Room

Lowmead Lowmead Hall

Councillor Information Booths • Thursday, April 24, 9.30am-noon: Boyne Plaza • Saturday, May 17: 9am-noon: Stockland Gladstone • Thursday, May 29, 9.30am-noon: Calliope IGA

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Mobile LIDAR has flood level information all 'mapped' out Floor level data helps identify homes under floodwater threat Gladstone Regional Council has armed itself with a new information reference tool to assist residents living in flood-prone areas across the region.

Homes located in the Q100 zone were mapped as part of the process, including properties in Boyne Island, Calliope, Beecher, Burua and Tannum Sands.

Mobile LIDAR (Light Detection and Radar) data mapping has been carried out to record the floor levels of homes across the Gladstone Region located in possible flood zones.

Images taken by the LIDAR camera show the lowest point (floor level) of a home information which Council did not have

recorded prior to this.

By accessing the floor level information, Council and Disaster Management staff can better plan for and identify what homes would require emergency evacuation in a flood event.

Data recorded will be used to assist disaster management staff in carrying out evacuation orders of homes under threat from rising waters.

The process has been carried out by Brisbane-based company Schlencker Mapping Consultants, with mapping starting in November last year.

All information recorded has been logged into Council's mapping system and will be used as reference points in handling emergency evacuations.

The recorded data is a vital tool in identifying which homes would come under threat of inundation in a flood event.

Mapping of flood levels across Gladstone region has been carried out through Mobile LIDAR data mapping.

Community Donations Program for 2014-15 opens Funds available for regional not-for-profit groups The 2014-15 funding round of Gladstone Regional Council's Community Donations Program is now open.

Funding can be obtained under several different categories for applicants seeking funding assistance by way of a Council donation.

Local not-for-profit community groups based in or servicing the Gladstone Region are encouraged to apply under the latest funding round.

The purpose of the program is to financially support groups that are generally ineligible to receive funding for the identified purposes from other

sources.

Eligible organisations can submit one application per category each financial year, and must not have any matters of concern before Council.

Applications must be received by close of business on April 25 and should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Gladstone Regional Council, PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680, with attention to the Community Donations Officer.

Late applications may still be accepted for consideration dependent on available remaining funds in each category.

To access the program's policy guidelines or application form visit Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/donationsand-grants.

For more information phone Council's Community Donations officer Janine Sorrensen on 4976 6351.

Gladstone Maritime's Ian Griffiths is grateful for financial assistance through Community Donations Program.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

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Ar tist Margaret Wor thington's 'Enviro' is unveiled near the John Oxley Bridge, Boyne Island.

Second artwork unveiled for Turtleway Artscape Project 'Enviro' sculpture brightens up Boyne-Tannum's bikeway The Turtleway Bikeway has a new centerpiece with a stunning sculpture now gracing the Boyne Island waterfront.

was part of The Musclemen Series, a series of 10 drawings transformed into cartoon like sculptures.

Calliope artist Margaret Worthington's 'Enviro' sculpture was officially unveiled on March 19. The sculpture is located at the bottom of the Boyne Island pathway exit near John Oxley Bridge.

The sculpture was inspired by the environs and structures of Queensland Alumina Limited.

Bikeway over a period of 10 years as part of the project.

Constructed from stainless steel, the sculpture was designed by Ms Worthington and fabricated by Clive Rouse.

It is the second artwork to be installed in four years as part of Turtleway Artscape project, aimed at enhancing the bikeway with sculptures and artworks depicting our local area - including its flora, fauna and people.

Local service club Boyne Tannum Rotary introduced the Turtleway Artscape project which is now supported by a series of community partners including Gladstone Regional Council; Boyne Island Lions Club; Boyne Tannum Arts, Business and Community Association Inc.; Gladstone Rotaract; Boyne Smelters Limited; Rio Tinto Yarwun; and Cement Australia.

A maquette of the sculpture was included in Ms Worthington's 'Industry Sited within the Environment' exhibition in 2013 and

Also designed to engage the wider community through art, a proposed 21 artworks will be installed along Turtleway

Each group is committed to funding the ongoing development and installation of artworks along the length of the bikeway.

Gladstone Region to 'go green' at Ecofest 2014 Council, industry and business unite to celebrate environmental initiatives Planning is well under way for Gladstone Regional Council's environmental awareness event, which this year celebrates its 15th year.

Held on the first Sunday in June, Ecofest coincides with the theme of World Environment Day and has fast become one of the Queensland's biggest environmental awareness events.

This year's event will take place on June 1 at Tondoon Botanic Gardens from 9am3pm and focus on the 2014 theme of "Keeping our Waterways Healthy".

In partnership with local industry, business and the community, Council aims to highlight important environmental initiatives and promote an interactive whole community approach to ensuring the environmental sustainability of our planet.

The event includes a range of ecofriendly displays and stalls featuring the region's major industry, local business and volunteer organisations; children's activities; guest speakers and food and drink stalls.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

Back by popular demand is the Sound Garden, made of recycled materials, plus there will be live snake, crocodile and wombat shows and plenty of exciting new attractions.

Guest speakers include Jerry ColebyWilliams, presenter of Gardening Australia; natural home remedy queen Shannon Lush; and climate change and resource futures expert Rod Quantock, who will all appear in the Elders Greenhouse Tent.

Entry to Ecofest is free.

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BRIEFLY

 Morning Teas expands The successful Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea program has expanded with additional morning teas to be hosted on the third Thursday of each month at the Boyne Tannum Community Centre, starting February 20. The initiative will continue on the first Thursday of each month at the Gladstone City Library, starting February 6. For more information phone the Community Advisory Service Welcoming Team on 4976 6300.

 Legal advice available Quality legal advice and information is available to the public through the Gladstone Regional Community Legal Program. The Gladstone

Regional Community Legal Program provides legal advice and information to the public on a wide range of legal issues face to face, by telephone and at outreach locations. Services provided by the Gladstone Regional Community Legal Program are open to all persons in the Gladstone Region. Consultations are by appointment only. All services are provided free of charge, are non-judgmental and confidentiality is assured. The Solicitor is able to provide assistance in the form of advice and support with basic legal forms, documents and letters. For further information visit the Community Advisory Service, 142 Goondoon Street, Gladstone, or phone 4976 6300.

Councillor Update Cr Ren Lanzon Phone: 0417 732 640 Email: renlanzon@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Portfolio: Arts & Culture When I last appeared on this page, the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC) had not yet been officially opened.

Since then there has not only been performances on stage, but the convention centre component of this marvellous facility has also been having a busy time. It's rare that a project as big as this does not come without a good deal of community criticism, but as the Councillor with the arts and culture portfolio I can say how comparatively little negative reaction there has been. It's early days, of course, but I am confident this facility will not only attract bigger and classier acts, but also that the new components of it, the convention centre, will eventually bring returns to this Council. Recently Gladstone hosted a Local Government Association of Queensland event in one of the meeting rooms and GECC manager Troy Everett took the guests for a tour of the facility. It raised immediate interest by the representatives to bring one of LGAQ's major events to Gladstone. The other thing to benefit the community within my portfolio is the consolidation of our library facilities to make our library services even more accessible to users right throughout our region. Our regional libraries are the hub of much activity and this move will only further benefit library users and the general community.

All Councillors contact details are available from Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/contact-a-councillor.

 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 April 1, April 15, May 6 and May 20.

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 you can access the change of details form from our website. Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ customer-service-requests.

 Lodge an event Does your not-for-profit or community organisation have an upcoming event? Events can be lodged on Council's community calendar. Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ submit-an-event

 Subscribe to eConnect In addition to a hard copy newsletter, 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/econnect

Proposal to close waste transfer stations Council is considering a proposal to close and decommission rural waste transfer stations at Raglan, Builyan and Lowmead on June 30.

A seven month review has questioned the viability of the three waste transfer stations, considering low use and their proximity to other regional waste facilities.

Each of the waste transfer stations under review is estimated to cost Council $16,000 to operate annually with data in past months revealing some locations have recorded nil attendances.

Residents in these communities are able to access nearby alternative transfer stations at Mt Larcom, Nagoorin and Rosedale which offer greater opening hours and accept a wider range of materials.

Kerbside domestic waste and recycling collection services are provided to all townships in the region as the most cost effective and convenient method of managing domestic waste, and where economically viable, to rural properties located on major haul routes.

Owners of properties in the serviced rural areas who are not receiving a kerbside collection service are encouraged to contact Council to enquire about availability.

Council welcomes comments in writing on the proposed waste transfer station closures from residents within these communities to Gladstone Regional Council, Attention: Manager Waste Services, PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

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LOCAL LAWS

Council conducts annual pet registration inspection Inspections a key component of Council animal management program Gladstone Regional Council's annual doorto-door cat and dog registration inspection program is under way and will continue until the end of September.

Local Law Enforcement Officers are conducting the six-month 'Systematic and Selective Inspection Program' throughout the region, in accordance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Pet registration provides Council with information regarding the type and number of cats and dogs located at premises throughout the Gladstone Region, and enables lost or stolen pets to be reunited with their owners.

The importance of the animal registration program is highlighted by the fact that almost 5000 of the 15,000 cats and dogs on Council's books have not been registered for the 2013-14 financial year.

The majority of impounded animals in the region are unregistered, underlining the importance of the inspection program in achieving compliance among pet owners.

Pet owners can help rectify this by informing Council of changes to their address or of the passing away or departure from the area of their animals.

Abiding by Council's pet regulations also minimises the number of animal-related complaints to Council and helps reduce the number of disturbances within the community.

Owners can also make it easier for Council to reunite them with lost pets by having their animals inserted with identification microchips and ensuring the contact details held by their pets' microchip registrars are correct.

Pet owners found with unregistered cats and dogs during the inspection program will be given 14 days in which to register their animals or face a possible $220 fine.

Illegal dumping a costly crime for ratepayers Council receives more than 100 reports of illegal dumping throughout the Gladstone Region each year.

This is a regrettable waste of Council resources and ratepayers' money.

Dumped waste has negative environmental, social and economic impacts, including the pollution of waterways, death of animals through ingesting or entrapment, attraction of vermin, the reduction of the visual appeal of public places, and cleaning and disposal costs to the community.

Council can impose fines of up to $1800 for individuals and $6000 for corporations found

littering.

There is no excuse for littering as the majority of general household waste can be removed via Council's supplied green or red lid wheelie bins or yellow lid wheelie bins for recyclable items.

Fees and charges for domestic and commercial waste are kept to a minimum and should not pose a deterrent to the correct disposal of litter.

Green waste can also be disposed of free at all transfer stations and at the Benaraby Landfill.

Residents who notice littering and illegal dumping offences are encouraged to phone Council on 4970 0700 or email info@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

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april

EVENTS CALENDAR APRIL 1 & 15

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

Various times Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens Children are encouraged to make their way to the Gardens this month and take part in the various arts and craft on offer.

Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/schoolholiday-activities Booking are essential.

Phone 4977 6899.

5.30pm Gladstone Art Gallery and Museum The 'Past Present Future #21stcenturyartmaking' exhibition, which runs until May 24, will be official launched along with the announcement of 30 selected images for the 'Intercity Images: Gladstone Saiki Photographic Exchange'. These selected images will be on display from April 5-26.

Visit http://gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld. gov.au/

General Council Meeting

3 & 17

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea 10am - Noon, Various Locations The welcome to Gladstone Morning Teas are held twice monthly, allowing newcomers to find out more about the Gladstone Region. A morning tea will be held at the Gladstone City Library on April 3 and at the Boyne Island Community Centre on April 17. For more information call 4976 6300.

Easter Activities

Launch of Exhibition

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"A Woman's Look at Cooking" 2pm - 4pm, Gladstone City Library Residents are encouraged to have a cuppa with local authors Julie Bishop and Regina Jones, and preparing food for camping.

Enjoy some chewy ANZAC biscuits and a taste test of their Dream-Pot wonder recipe. The ladies will also explain how they cook using a Cobb Cooker and a camp oven. Spaces are limited. Phone 4976 6400 to book your spot.

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1 & 15

3

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10am - Noon, Various Locations The welcome to Gladstone Morning Teas allow newcomers to find out more about the Gladstone Region. A morning tea will be held at the Gladstone City Library on May 1 and at the Boyne Island Community Centre on May 15. Phone 4976 6300.

Time to be confirmed Start at Thomas Jeffery Park The entire course is approximately 7km.

For more information contact Thea at the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

may

MAY

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

6 & 20

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

Year of Walking Event: Captain Cook 1770 Festival Fun Run/Walk

Information Session 10am - Noon WIN Office, 10 Tank Street Residents are invited to an information session about employment in Australia.

Phone 4976 6352 to book your spot.

Saiki Children's Day

National Simultaneous Storytime 11am - Noon, Regional Libraries Gladstone Regional Libraries will celebrate National Simultaneous Storytime on May 21. Visit your local library and take part in the annual nationwide storybook reading.

Positive Directions is a program developed around: • Awareness of anger • Acknowledgement of consequences • Development of skills to assist individuals in becoming ‘response-able’

10am - Noon WIN Office, 10 Tank Street Residents are invited to an information session about the Australia Health System.

Phone 4976 6352 to book your spot.

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Posi t ive Di r ecti o ns Assertiveness not Anger

Information Session

10am - 1pm Gladstone Region Art Gallery & Museum This event encourages local school students from prep to Year 7 to engage in learning about their Japanese peers' lives through some hands-on art activities.

Bookings essential. Phone 4976 6766.

Cost:

$5 per session

Time:

6pm - 9pm

Date:

6 - 27 May 2014

Place:

Community Advisory Service 142 Goondoon St, Gladstone

Phone: 4976 6300 for bookings

Saiki City

2014 Intercity Images Gladstone Saiki Photographic Exchange display

April 5-26 Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum

Kris Kristofferson

Solo and Acoustic Tuesday, April 22, 7.30pm

end, Kris Kristofferson American country music leg r to the GECC. ic tou brings his solo and acoust on guitar all his wellKristofferson will perform gs such as Me and known and much loved son ke it Through the Ma Me Bobby McGee; Help g Down; and For min Co g rnin Mo day Night; Sun captivated by be to set t the Good Times. Ge stories of his life nd -ha first and ce voi s on' Kristoffers d. both on and off the roa

regular features

REGULAR FEATURES Story Time

Parent Baby Classes

Various days and 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.gladstonelibraries.qld.gov.au.

9am - 10.30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre Introduce both child and parent to the aquatic environment and learn the basics of water safety at Gladstone Aquatic Centre. Phone 4972 6822 for more information or to make a booking.

Baby Bounce Various days and time 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.gladstonelibraries.qld.gov.au.

Happy Hour

Learn to Swim

Library Square Performances

Various days and times Now available on Saturdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre Gladstone Aquatic Centre is offering exciting changes for this summer's Learn to Swim program with the addition of an extra level and Saturday morning lessons.

Phone 4972 6822 to make a booking.

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.

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.

I'm Connected Are You? e Connect Subscribe today www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/econnect

Charmaine Wilson Spirit Whispers Saturday, May 3, 7.30pm

kable tragedy and Having experienced unspea n life, Charmaine has ow heartbreaking loss in her rney to bring comfort embarked on a life-long jou guide her clients to ent and provide empowerm grief and enable them of s day t kes dar ir through the . Charmaine will side er to see the light on the oth to connect with those give her audiences a chance er to give messages ord in who have passed over g. of peace and love to the livin

Peppa Pig Live!

Treasure Hunt 3.30pm Thursday, June 5, 1pm and

ther George as they set Join Peppa Pig and her bro ere are fun-and-games, off on a treasure hunt! Th nty of sing-along songs problems to solve and ple y, Zoe Zebra and Polly Pon ro as Danny Dog, Ped packed full of adventure.

Parrot join them for a day nt will delight and Hu Peppa Pig Live! Treasure s. fan Pig pa Pep enchant young

Peace Train

The Cat Stevens Story Friday, June 20, 8pm

n Coggan, is a night of Peace Train, starring Darre ich will strike a chord music and story-telling wh one who longs for any deep inside the heart of y back in time to the rne jou a It's re. mo something Cat’s timeless songs ting rea well of inspiration, rec tten – on an acoustic as they were originally wri the man in the music out g guitar and piano, seekin the songs. and telling the story behind

www.gladecc.com.au Ph: 4972 2822 ok.com/ facebook: www.facebo entre entC GladstoneEntertainm

SUSTAINABLE LIVING Residents show support for e-waste recycling service Gladstone Region residents are helping the environment by disposing of unwanted e-waste items for recycling. e-waste, consisting of televisions, computers and computer accessories, is recyclable with items left at Council's Agnes Water and Gladstone transfer stations and Benaraby Landfill collected by free national recycling service TechCollect.

The e-waste program started last May and has already greatly reduced the amount of landfill waste.

The j-Track monitor in the JJ Richards waste collection vehicle.

Computers assist Council waste collection service Hi-tech trucks record region's waste data The j-Track on-board computer system is making Council's waste collection service more efficient than ever.

The automated waste collection management system, which is fitted to all JJ Richards waste collection vehicles within the Gladstone Region, benefits Council's service by recording valuable data in a number of key areas.

Firstly, by tracking the vehicle's position and movements, the system can be used to ensure the truck travels the same route at the same time each week.

By doing so, it enables drivers to maintain a consistent collection time and helps avoid missed services, particularly during times when relief drivers are covering for regular drivers.

The on-board system also records the actual collection time at each address and can identify contamination issues via a driver-operated camera which snaps shots

of the bin and its contents being emptied into the truck at each stop.

Such images can identify waste bins which have been overfilled or contaminated loads such as green waste in recycling bins or building waste which is unsuitable for regular waste bins.

When such instances are identified, letters are mailed to residents advising them of the contamination issues and providing recommendations for managing their waste.

The intent of the system is to implement behavioural change within the community in order to maximise efficiency of the waste and recycling collection services.

The same technology can also be used to identify non-rated properties at which residents are using a collection service they are not entitled to, as well as properties that are using more than their allocated number of bins.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

More than 50 tonnes of e-waste have been recycled at the Agnes Water, Benaraby and Gladstone sites since the program's implementation, using environmentally friendly recycling methods which also protect workers' health and safety.

The TechCollect service also enables the recovery of precious metal resources and motivates residents to clean out their homes by recycling their e-waste at no cost.

e-waste collection stats: ď Ž Agnes Water Transfer Station 2927kg in September. Site total 2927kg TV class - 2733kg (93% of total e-waste) Computer class 194kg (7%) ď Ž Benaraby Landfill - 7826kg in July, 5653kg in September, 6937kg in October. Site total 20,415kg TV class 16,757kg (82%) Computer class 3658kg (18%) ď Ž Gladstone Transfer Station 9780kg in September, 8305kg in December. Site total 18,085kg.

TV class 15,643kg (86%) Computer class 2442kg (14%)

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INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS Insight into roadwork program Have you ever thought that at times there seems to be a lot of work on Council-owned roads happening at once?

Council identifies its roads which require work; programs are released for tender; contracts are awarded; and then maintenance teams prepare surfaces prior to contractors arriving at various locations.

Over the years, road material products and technology have changed and improved and certain components of material perform better when applied under specific conditions.

The time of year that work such as road reseals occurs can be critical to their successful application, performance and endurance.

Reseal work must be done in warm, dry weather, while in contrast, asphalt work has less climatic restrictions.

Such road works cannot be applied until particular road temperatures are reached.

About $3 million of asphalt resurfacing work is being carried out on Council roads from March to May across the region.

This follows $2m of stage one bitumen seal work in Miriam Vale, Lowmead, Agnes Water, Calliope, Beecher, Benaraby, Ambrose and Mt Larcom.

Asbestos cannot be disposed of at the Gladstone Waste Management Centre.

Strict rules apply for asbestos disposal Be aware of Council requirements and restrictions Home owners, renovators, owner builders and others should be aware that Council requires an application for accepting asbestos materials for disposal.

Queensland has specific laws for the handling, removal and disposal of asbestos to protect the health of homeowners, their families and the general community.

Anyone planning to remove 10m2, or less, of non-friable (bonded materials containing asbestos, commonly called 'fibro', 'asbestos cement' and 'AC sheeting') material containing asbestos, does not require an asbestos removal licence or certificate.

However, safety precautions still need to be taken to minimise asbestos fibres getting into the air.

As a guide, 10m2 is equivalent to about four sheets of asbestos cement wall sheeting, or usually only one wall of an average bathroom.

Homeowners planning to remove more than 10m2 of non-friable asbestos containing materials (ACM) must either: • Use a business with a current class A or class B asbestos removal licence to do the work; or • Hold a certificate obtained under arrangements established by Queensland Health. Information on these certificates is available by calling 13QGOV (13 74 68) or at www.qld. gov.au/asbestos Asbestos is not accepted at the Gladstone Waste Management Centre or regional transfer stations but can be disposed of

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

at Benaraby Landfill with conditions for its removal, transport and acceptance. A Special Disposal of Waste application form is available on Council's website at www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/transfer-stations-andlandfills Home renovators removing less than 10m2 of material are required to comply with the guidelines and complete an application form. Any material on inspection suspected of containing asbestos, with no proof of not containing asbestos, will not be accepted.

Recently, Council had to manage material considered to potentially contain asbestos, which may have been disposed of mistakenly or incorrectly and did not abide

by Council restrictions.

In the interest of personal, family, community and work place safety, home owners of older properties are reminded to be vigilant about building materials that may contain asbestos when carrying out renovation works.

Bonded materials containing asbestos are the most common asbestos materials in Queensland homes.

Penalty provisions may be applied for such offences relating to the handling of asbestos containing materials.

Read more about asbestos, removal certificates and guidelines on Queensland Health's website at www.deir.qld.gov. au/asbestos and www.deir.qld.gov.au/ workplace/resources/pdfs/asbestos-homerenovators-trades-guide.pdf

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DEVELOPMENT SNAPSHOT

Council cracks down on caravans in backyards Long-term use of living in backyard caravan to cease Council's Compliance Officers are cracking down on caravans being used as a permanent place of residence in neighbourhood backyards.

During the height of the recent construction phase, Council was more lenient on the use of caravans in backyards

for temporary housing, as long as the caravan was not connected to Council's sewer and water systems and was not causing any environmental harm through the discharge of grey water.

Now the demand for housing has eased, Council is asking residents currently living

Residents invited to BoyneTannum information night Boyne-Tannum residents are invited to attend an information night on Thursday, May 22 following the recent community visioning session held by Council to create a shared future planning vision for these townships through a structure plan process.

Council officers, Councillors and consultants Deicke Richards will be in attendance to present the draft findings from the initial visioning session and will provide residents with the opportunity to comment further on this structure plan.

The information night will be held from 6.15pm to 7.15pm in the Heron Room at the Boyne Tannum Community Centre via Wyndham Avenue, Boyne Island.

in backyard caravans to consider and possibly make alternate arrangements, in accordance with the region's planning scheme requirements.

Residents are encouraged to contact Council on 4970 0700 if they have any concerns with their current arrangement.

Our

Place Our PLAN

Comments welcome on planning framework

Council officers and consultants have reached a milestone in the progression of the new planning scheme with the draft strategic framework ready for public comment.

The strategic framework will set the policy direction for the new planning scheme, which will replace the existing planning schemes that apply to the former Gladstone City, Calliope Shire and Miriam Vale Shire councils.

These community sessions are a component in the formulation of Council's new planning scheme.

The document will continue to be refined as part of the ongoing drafting of the new planning scheme; residents now have an opportunity to comment on the current draft.

The first draft of the scheme is expected to be finalised for Council review by the end of June 2014.

There will be a formal call for public submissions on the completed draft scheme later in the year.

For further information on the information night, or to receive planning scheme updates, contact the Regional Strategy Department on 1300 621 922 or regionalstrategy@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Residents have until April 30 to provide written comment to regionalstrategy@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Download the draft strategic framework at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ draft-strategic-framework

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

Page 12

COMMUNITY LIVING Popular physical activity program gets the heart pumping Improve your health and stay socially connected while exercising and keeping fit with Heartmoves.

Run by the Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS), Heartmoves is a gentle physical activity program suitable for people with stable long term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or obesity. The program targets those with chronic disease and people aged sixty years and over.

Heartmoves classes focus on a range of health promoting areas including cognitive function; strength; flexibility; balance; cardiovascular fitness; and fine motor skills. Classes are also suitable for those suffering injuries that reduce joint mobility.

Taking part in regular classes can help people lower blood pressure; improve cholesterol control, wellbeing and quality of life; manage weight and diabetes; improve sleep, balance and flexibility; and prevent falls and associated injuries.

Classes cost $2 per person and are run weekly in Rosedale, Baffle Creek, Miriam Vale and Agnes Water.

For more information about class details phone the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

School Based Vaccination Program injected across Gladstone Region Free vaccinations available for Year 8 and 10 students As part of Queensland Health's 2014 School Based Vaccination Program, eligible high school students are being offered free immunisation against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis), human papillomavirus and chicken pox.

Every Year 8 student will be offered immunisation against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, human papillomavirus and chicken pox while Year 10 students will be offered immunisation against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough, and in the case of male students, human papillomavirus.

Immunisation is recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council to ensure continued immunity against these diseases.

Heartmoves participants Bonnie Halbert and Ruby Krieger raise a sweat at the Miriam Vale class.

Locally, Year 8 and 10 students will be vaccinated as part of Council's free school based vaccination program. The vaccines provided are in accordance with the National Health and Medical Research Council's National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

School based vaccinations are carried out at each high school across the Gladstone Region. Clinics started in March and are also scheduled for May and October.

Students who miss their scheduled school clinic can get their catch-up vaccination through their local doctor's surgery or Council based clinic.

Vaccination consent forms containing relevant information have been provided to all students in the appropriate year level. They must be completed and returned to school even if no vaccination is requested.

Students vaccinated will receive a record to take home after their vaccination.

Council records vaccination details to be entered into Queensland Health's vaccination database. For further information phone Council's Environmental Health section on 4976 6996 or Discovery Coast Community Health Service on 4902 1100.

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YOUTH UPDATE Recruitment campaign for Youth Centre volunteers Many hands make light work, especially when it comes to a volunteer run service like Mount Larcom's Youth Centre.

With only one volunteer currently involved in manning the centre, Council has thrown its support behind a recruitment campaign to sign-up more volunteers.

The Council's Youth Development team, in partnership with Mount Larcom Art Gallery and Museum, has teamed up to source more volunteers and link them into the operation of the youth centre, a Council owned facility.

The teams have committed to providing mentorship to volunteers to get the youth centre up and running strongly in 2014. During the past two years volunteer numbers have slowly dwindled, reducing the centre's operation hours, despite strong youth participation numbers.

Located on Narrows Road, the Mount Larcom Youth Centre operates each Saturday between 4pm and 8pm.

Entry costs $1 and youth have access to a pool table, air hockey, table tennis, Sony PlayStation and XBox plus arts and craft facilities.

Those wanting to volunteer can phone Gladstone Regional Council Youth Development Officer Vernetta Perrett on 4976 6311.

The Gladstone Region Youth Survey results are in and will be used to help develop a youth strategic plan.

Survey results paint positive picture Region gets the 'thumbs up' from its younger generation The results of Council's Youth Survey are in, revealing a majority of local youth love living in the Gladstone Region.

Launched by Council's Youth Development team in November 2013, the purpose of the survey was to gain vital information on living in the Gladstone Region and what it has to offer from a youth perspective.

Survey results will assist Council to develop a youth strategic plan, creating long-term strategies to address the needs of young people in the Gladstone Region.

An overwhelming 92 per cent of respondents felt safe living in their town or suburb and 81 per cent felt part of the community in which they live. A majority described the Gladstone Region as a nice, quiet and welcoming community.

Onesie Walk Friday, April 11 Old Community Centre Agnes Water 10.30am walk to Tom Jeffery Memorial Park , BBQ from 12 noon.

Just over half of the survey respondents have lived in the Gladstone Region for 10 or more years while only five per cent were newcomers to the region.

Female respondents accounted for 53 per cent while male responses came in at 47 per cent.

Bullying and cyber bullying were identified as the most common issues of concern among local youth.

The survey was open to youth aged 12 to 24 years who lived, worked or studied in the Gladstone Regional Council local government area.

An incentive prize of an iPad Mini was on offer to all respondents with Nathan Davies of Tannum Sands announced as the lucky winner.

Zombie Quest Saturday, April 12 Meet at Gladstone Library 4.30pm walk to Memorial Park 6pm. Dress as a Zombie or Vampire and enjoy the “Year of Walking�, activities and challenging games along the way.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

Zombie Roller Disco Saturday, April 12 Gladstone PCYC 6.30pm-9pm Cost $10.00

Page 14

ARTS & CULTURE Blues and Roots Festival strikes a high note The 2014 Agnes Blues and Roots Festival has struck a winning chord; attracting one of its largest crowds to Agnes Water.

A crowd of 2500 attended the sixth annual festival, held at the SES grounds from February 27 to March 2.

Head-lining the 2014 line up was Australian rock legend Richard Clapton - one of 20 plus acts to play on the main stage. Entertainment on the second stage included a showcase of talented up-and-coming young artists.

New media artist David M Thomas in front of the installation 'Dream Job'.

Photo: Mark Mohell

Vibrant exhibitions add a splash of colour to Easter break Art gallery and museum braces for busy holiday period The Easter period is always a busy time for our region and the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum is no exception.

Four vibrant exhibitions are on display during the holiday break, each one vastly different from the other. Locally collated exhibitions 'Intercity Images: Gladstone Saiki Photographic Exchange' and commemorative exhibition 'ANZAC Day: Lest we Forget' both return for another year and are on display in the front Gallery spaces until April 26.

Contemporary exhibition 'Past Present Future #21stcenturyart-making' presents a short history of moving images, including early experimental works as well as the art-Rage tapes of the 1990s. The exhibition features works by nationally recognised new media artist David M Thomas.

Working across a diverse range of tactile and electronic media, David addresses the idea of 'self' through the use of language, jokes and the manipulation of his and other

people’s appearances. What results is painting, sculpture and moving image works that both defend and question the nature of the modern individual. The exhibition is supported by the Lake Awoonga Dam Alliance's Lake Awoonga Immersion Fund and runs until May 24.

Other feature acts to rock the crowd included acoustic singer/songwriter Shaun Kirk. The Blues and Soul troubador was the final act to head the all ages event, delivering a stunning display of robust vocals.

And with his trademark electrifried slide guitar, 8Ball Aitken had the crowd enthralled, so much so, that hundreds queued in line for hours to have a chat to the popular performer.

With plenty of live entertainment on offer this year's festival also included a Harley Davidson Motorcycle and Hot Rods exhibition and market stalls.

The 'Ruby Campbell Collection Exhibition' also returns to the Gallery & Museum.

Campbell (1888 - 1977) was a self-taught artist and a modest country woman who lived on a remote homestead near Biloela.

Inspired by the great Australian artists of her time, she too had an expert eye for detail and confidence in a diversity of mediums.

Her extraordinary ability as an artist is undeniable.

The exhibition displays a small sample of works from her extensive collection of watercolours, drawings and etchings. It is presented in conjunction with the artist's family and is on display from April 12 to May 10.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2014

Page 15

Welcome Morning Tea Come and join us, meet new people while enjoying a free morning tea, learn more about the area and resources to take away.

Morning Teas commence at 10am at the following locations:

I'm Connected Are You?

Gladstone City Library Held on the first Thursday of each month Goondoon Street Gladstone Boyne Tannum Community Centre Held on the third Thursday of each month Cnr Wyndham & Hayes Avenue, Boyne Island For further details contact the CAS Welcoming Team on 4976 6300 No matter where you have moved from or length of stay, you are invited to attend Welcome to Gladstone Region Morning Teas.

e Connect Subscribe today www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/econnect

2014

Meet special guests Jerry Coleby-Williams Gardening Australia Shannon Lush Natural home remedy queen Rod Quantock Climate Change and resource futures expert

“Keeping our fREE Waterways Healthy”  Ecofun Zone  Displays and presentations  Elders Greenhouse Tent  Children’s activities  Live music

June 1 - 9am-3pm

on Rd, Gladstone

Tondoon Botanic Gardens, Glenly