Council Connection April - May 2015

COUNCIL

CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER APRIL - MAY 2015 ISSUE 65

2015 INSIDE

3

Cyclone clean-up keeps crews busy

7 Celebrate our ANZAC spirit

10 Sing our song $1000 to be won

11 Marina Bridge repairs update

MAYOR'S MESSAGE Ecofest delivers a serious message without forgetting the fun

Cover

There's plenty of fun for the whole family at Ecofest.

Date: Sunday, May 31 Time: 9am to 3pm Venue: Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

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” and is also available for viewing or downloading from Council’s website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au

As the Gladstone Region has grown rapidly in recent years, so too has our understanding that all progress must be made in a sustainable manner.

Council, like many organisations, industries and businesses throughout the region, is constantly looking for more sustainable ways of conducting our everyday operations in order to reduce costs and our impact on the environment.

With such goals in mind, it is little wonder that Council's Ecofest has become one of Central Queensland's largest free environmental awareness events.

More than 10,000 people turned out for Ecofest last year and the wide range of ecofriendly displays and stalls featuring major industry, local businesses and volunteer organisations shows how prevalent environmentally sustainable practices have become.

The environment is a serious issue, and deserves to be treated as such, but Ecofest ensures the fun is not left out of the event with children's activities, live entertainment and food and drink stalls all adding to the festival vibe.

A fun day out for people of all ages, Ecofest is to be hosted at the Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens, Glenlyon Road, on Sunday, May 31.

Ecofest theme promotes sustainable growth The theme for Ecofest 2015 is 'Grown in Gladstone'.

The term, like the future of the Gladstone Region, is abundant with possibilities.

The theme also reflects the success of Ecofest itself which, having grown to become one of Central Queensland's largest environmental awareness events, brings the community, industry and agriculture together to better understand how we can continue to develop as a region without impacting on our precious natural resources.

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 50 cents per household per edition.

'Grown in Gladstone' conjures up a myriad of thoughts and images - residents who are products of the region; those who are more recent arrivals whose lives are flourishing here; the rapid expansion in population, infrastructure, business and industry which the region has undergone in recent years; and the increasing awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

Council Contacts

Bookings are being taken for upcoming CouncillorConnect visits.

Cost

Mail: PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Phone: (07) 4970 0700 Fax: (07) 4975 8500

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

'Grown in Gladstone' is a rallying cry for the community to take pride in our region and take an active role in helping protect our environment as we continue to grow in Gladstone.

A morning tea and information chat session will be held from 9.30am at each location, followed by pre-booked, 20 minute individual meetings with Councillors from 10.15am.

Residents wishing to discuss local issues and concerns can book by phoning Council on 4970 0700 or emailing councillorconnect@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Thursday, April 30 Mount Larcom Benaraby Rosedale

Mount Larcom QCWA Hall Benaraby Progress Hall Rosedale Memorial Hall

Thursday, May 28 Raglan Builyan Turkey Beach

Raglan QCWA Hall Builyan Community Hall Turkey Beach Rural Fire Brigade

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Cyclone clean-up keeps Council crews busy Parks and Environment teams put in big hours When natural disasters hit, maintaining open means of communication is of potentially life-saving importance.

Council staff and emergency services representatives worked hard to ensure the lines of communication between the Gladstone Region community and the Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC) remained when Tropical Cyclone Marcia hit in February.

Originally thought to be in direct line of the approaching cyclone, the Gladstone Region was thankfully spared the full brunt

but those on duty at the LDCC were ready if things turned worse.

LDCC and 151 were enquiries requesting information or making offers of assistance.

The LDCC, which also featured representation from Queensland Police, Queensland Fire and Emergency, Queensland Ambulance and State Emergency Services, was activated at midday on February 17 and remained in operation until midnight February 19.

While Marcia may have spared the Gladstone Region the full brunt of her fury, she caused enough damage to keep Council's Parks and Environment division busy.

During that time the LDCC, in addition to Council's Customer Service and Call Centre staff, took numerous phone calls of which 53 were tasked to the agencies or

In the period from February 21, when the first crews hit the ground to inspect damage caused the previous day, to March 2, Parks and Environment employees spent almost 1500 hours conducing cleanup work in the region's parks.

Post-cyclone Parks and Environment work summary: Team

Duties

Parks Maintenance

Total time 1069.8 hours

Arboriculture team

Work associated with fallen trees (sawing, chipping, repairing etc.) Approximately 50 trees were reported as down in addition to a large number sustaining various degrees of damage in the Gladstone, Calliope and Mount Larcom areas.

221.25 hours Work was ongoing at time of publishing.

Horticulture team

Clean-up work related to damaged trees and plants in parks.

175 hours

Mowing team

Cleaning footpaths of debris.

84.5 hours

South West team

Cleaning debris from parks and facilities. Approximately 40 truckloads of debris taken to transfer station.

430.95 hours

South East team

Cleaning debris from parks and facilities. Approximately 15 truckloads of debris taken to transfer station.

158.1 hours

Cemeteries

Cleaning debris from cemeteries and facilities. Five trees reported down with a number sustaining various degrees of damage.

81.3 hours

Technical services

Cleaning facilities and other Parks and Environment assets to ensure public safety.

112.89 hours

Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

Cleaning debris from the Gardens and associated facilities. Five trees reported down in the Gardens with a number damaged to various degrees. Downed trees removed from Mt Biondello trails for safety reasons.

128 hours

Conservation and Rural Lands

Inspecting beach erosion, walkways and natural areas. Several trees reported down on the Round Gladstone Trails.

69.6 hours

Inspecting facilities to ensure public safety.

6 hours

Parks Superintendent Total for Parks and Environment

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

1467.59 hours

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Community groups can apply for funding Community Donation Program applications now accepted Not-for-profit community groups based in or servicing the Gladstone Region are now able to apply for funding under Council's Community Donations Program.

Timely applications are preferred, however, applications received after April 30 may still be accepted, subject to availability of remaining funds in each category.

Groups have a range of funding opportunities under categories including Heritage & Museums, Recreational Event Support, Performing Arts, and Educational and Guidance.

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

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as it is preferred that applications are received for the 2015-16 funding round by April 30.

This program is a great opportunity for Council to support the hard-working volunteer-based organisations that provide great support and facilities to the community.

For more information, or to access a copy of the Community Donations Program Policy Guidelines and application form visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/donations-andgrants All applications must be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Gladstone Regional Council, PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680, with attention to the Community Donations Officer.

For more information about the program phone Council's Community Donations officer Janine Sorrensen on 4976 6351 or email janines@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Infographic

ONE MONTH SNAPSHOT

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Curtis Island National park

Balaclava Island

BRIEFLY

Curtis Island Raglan Creek

Rundle Range National Park

The Narrows

Raglan

 Surf life saving support

South End

Targinnie Mount Larcom

Yarwun

Facing Island

Port Curtis

Gladstone Boyne Island

Tannum Sands

D

AW

SO

IG N H

HWAY

Calliope

Benaraby

Wild Cattle Island National Park Hummock Hill Island

Lake Awoonga

Turkey Beach Eurimbula National Park

Seventeen Seventy

Castle Tower National Park

Agnes Water Bororen

Kroombit Tops National Park

Miriam Vale

Nagoorin Ubobo

Deepwater National Park

Mount Colosseum National Park

Broadwater Conservation Park

Baffle Creek Builyan

Lowmead

Rules Beach

Baffle Creek

Many Peaks Rosedale

Access local economic and community profiling data online REMPLAN now available on website Council has introduced REMPLAN, an online community and economic profiling tool for the Gladstone Region.

The REMPLAN Economy and Community profiles provide access to detailed data on the Gladstone Region and sub-regions based on the latest ABS data with the ability to extract graphs and tables in a variety of formats.

The community profile tool includes insights into the unique characteristics of our communities including age, gender,

household type, family, cultural diversity, housing and education.

Businesses, developers and investors can also use the economic profile tool to find out information on our industries, economic performance, employment data, infrastructure and assets.

Both tools provide a comparison of the region against the Fitzroy Region and Queensland.

To access the REMPLAN data visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/demographics

Housing program success shared The innovative LNG Industry Housing Program developed by Gladstone Regional Council was shared as a successful model at two state conferences hosted by Q Shelter recently.

rapid workforce growth linked to the LNG industry.

In 2011, the LNG proponents provided $3 million over a three year period to Council who designed and implemented the program as a direct response to the known impacts of the

The program, which concluded on June 30, 2014, won last year's sustainability category at the Local Government Managers Australia Awards for Excellence.

The program provided housing assistance, including rental subsidies, to 446 individual families in the Gladstone Region.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

Council has renewed its arrangement with Surf Life Saving Queensland to continue lifeguard services at Agnes Water and Tannum Sands main beaches. The lifeguard service ensures regional beaches are monitored during school holidays and shortly after. Funding allows provision for two lifeguards at the Tannum Sands and Agnes Water beaches during the Easter, September and December school holidays, and the presence of one lifeguard at Agnes Water beach after these holiday periods.

 Major events receive boost The Boyne Tannum HookUp and the All Breeds Equestrian Extravaganza are set to benefit after receiving financial assistance under the third round of funding from the Major Events Advisory Panel (MEAP).

The panel facilitates two funding rounds each financial year, in July and January, for events occurring in the subsequent six to 12 months. To find out about MEAP funding visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/majorevents-funding

 Road names approved Two rural roads now have new names following approval at Council's March 17 general meeting. The previously unnamed roads will be known as Mount Elmo Road, Colosseum and Sadock Road, Miriam Vale.

 Stay connected through Facebook Stay connected with Council through Facebook by making sure you 'Like' or comment on our posts. Facebook changes mean if you are an infrequent viewer or user of your Facebook account, you will need to reconnect with us or Facebook will remove you as a Council page liker.

We're always trying to improve the way we communicate with you so if you have ideas or feedback for our Facebook page email communications@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

 Decision time for park project Council is expected to make a decision about the future of the $4.8 million redevelopment of Alf Larson-Lions Park in Miriam Vale by June 30, 2015. Councillors further delayed their decision last month requesting a report about the relocation of community buildings required as part of the redevelopment design. If construction funding is approved, the project would be staged over three years, featuring state-of-the-art recreational facilities, a modern playground, designated rest stops and parking for travellers, all set among contemporary landscaping and walkways.

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Abandoned vehicles pose potential hazard to community Council impounds unclaimed abandoned vehicles Abandoned vehicles are an unnecessary eyesore around our region and can become hazardous to our community if left unresolved or attended to.

A vehicle is officially deemed 'abandoned' when it has been in the same location for an unusual length of time; the vehicle owner is unknown; or it does not display or have valid registration plates.

Any vehicle within such classifications and left on the side of a Council controlled road or within Council land will be dealt with via

Council's legal procedures.

within seven days.

In hazardous or dangerous circumstances, abandoned vehicles may be removed immediately.

After necessary steps are completed, and the vehicle is still not moved, it will be impounded and subsequently offered for sale by auction or as scrap metal unless claimed within a specified time frame.

However, normal circumstances include the carrying out of legal procedures before removal and may take between four and six weeks to complete.

Consequently, if an owner is not located nor claims the vehicle, a local law notice will be issued advising of the vehicle's classification and its removal if not moved

Keeping our roads, streets and local land free of these hazards is a priority, so for more information or if you believe a vehicle to be abandoned, contact the Council's Regulatory Services division on 4977 6821.

Parking vehicles on footpaths could prove an expensive nuisance Parking on footpaths poses a safety risk by preventing an adequate line of sight for those in vehicles exiting driveways.

Vehicles parked on the footpath may also obscure the vision of other drivers, making it difficult for them to see vehicles exiting driveways.

Children, Youth and Women to benefit from Mayor's Ball

It is an offence, under Council's Local Law No.4 Local Government Controlled Areas, Facilities and Roads, section 5 (4), and its subordinate Local Law No.4, Schedule 1, to engage in a prohibited or restricted activity.

Four local organisations have been named as the beneficiaries from the 2015 Santos GLNG Mayor's Ball being held on Saturday, May 30.

Under Local Law No.4 parking on the footpath or verge can be considered as the creation of a nuisance on the road.

If the vehicle's position is proved to be a nuisance, the owner of the vehicle can be served with an infringement notice penalty of $227 or a maximum of 20 penalty units.

MAD Camps (Young People Making a Difference); Variety Queensland; CWA Young Leaders and Zonta will share the proceeds of the fundraising gala dinner, which is themed "Night of Lights".

This year's black-tie event will be held at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC), giving organisers the capacity to host 500 guests.

Former rugby league great Shane Webcke is the guest host on the night with "Soul Mystic" revealed as the headline entertainment act.

Gladstone Regional Council is again proud to support the gala dinner which has raised more than $190,000 for local charities to date.

Book your tickets at www.variety.org.au/gladstonemayorsball

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

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Celebrate our

ANZAC Spirit Saturday April 25, 2015

Location

Other Information

Contact

Agnes Dawn Water & Service Seventeen Seventy Memorial Service

Service

Assemble at Rock Latino CafĂŠ at 5.30am for coffee. Dawn service commences at 6am at Agnes Water Cenotaph followed by breakfast at Agnes Water Tavern at 7am.

Allan Mason or Myra Turnbull Phone 4974 9071

March at 9.45am from Agnes Water Tavern for a 10.30am service at the cenotaph and then back to Agnes Water Tavern for morning tea and activities.

Allan Mason or Myra Turnbull Phone 4974 9071

Bororen

Dawn Service

Service starts at 6am at the cenotaph at Bororen Memorial Park.

Paul Howkins Phone 4975 6473

Boyne Island

Dawn Service

Service starts at 5.30am at cenotaph, Stirling Park, Boyne Island. Barbecue breakfast (gold coin donation) after service in Lions Park, adjacent to Stirling Park.

Mike Robbins Phone 4973 2448

Morning Service

Participants gather at 8.30am, march from Boyne Plaza Carpark and then service starts Mike Robbins at 9am, led by Gladstone Municipal Band. Activities and refreshments follow at 11am at Phone 4973 2448 the Boyne Tannum Bowls Club's clubhouse for ex-service personnel and invited guests.

Calliope

Morning Service

10.45am march from Bunting Park to Cenotaph, RSL Hall, Stirrat Street, Calliope for 11am service. Followed by luncheon at Diggers Arms Hotel, Calliope for members, returned and service veterans, serving ADF personnel and invited guests.

Darryl Saw Phone 4978 5621 or 0447 417746

Gladstone

Dawn Service

Form up at 5.25am and march off at 5.30am from Valley Shopping Centre facing Herbert Street then service follows at ANZAC Park.

Peter Young Phone 4972 8372 or 0408 753 420

Main Parade Form up at 10.25am and march at 10.30am from Gladstone Regional Council building & Civic followed by service at 11am. Followed by luncheon at Yaralla Sports Club at 12.30pm Ceremony for invited guests.

Russell Tidd Phone 4972 8372

Miriam Vale

Dawn Service

Assemble for a 4am service at Miriam Vale Cenotaph (opposite hotel) followed by public breakfast (small fee) and entertainment.

Marshall Anderson Phone 4974 5209

Mount Larcom

Dawn Service

Muster at 5.15am for a 5.30am service at Showgrounds Memorial Garden Cenotaph at Dean Tappin Mt Larcom and District Armed Services Centre (RSO building), followed by breakfast.

Phone 4976 3023

Rosedale

Dawn Service

Assemble by 6am outside Memorial Hall on James Street and march to Cenotaph.

Service runs from 5.45am and concludes at approx 6.30am. A Gunfire Breakfast will then be held at the Memorial Hall.

Henry Higgins Phone 0429 809 698

ANZAC Day: Lest We Forget exhibition at GRAGM Remembering 100 years since the start of the First World War The annual ANZAC Day: Lest We Forget exhibition, remembering 100 years since the start of the First World War, is an opportunity for locals and visitors to pay their respects to those Australian men and women who served during war time.

The exhibition will be officially launched at 11am on Wednesday, April 22 at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum and will showcase local stories, including that of nurse Beryl Campbell, who grew up on a Biloela cattle station in the 1880s.

Greece, where she remained well after the war had ended to oversee the departure of the wounded.

Beryl was awarded The Royal Red Cross 1st Class and the Medaille des Epidemies (en Argent) by the French Government for her valuable service.

When war against Germany was declared in August 1914, Beryl sailed with the second contingent of Australian nurses from Brisbane to the converted Heliopolis Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt.

Photographs and memorabilia from local families are also featured in the exhibition, together with a selection of portrait photographs from the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) collection. Visitors can also view the World War I Roll of Honour for the Town of Gladstone and Shire of Calliope, which is a permanent fixture.

Matron Campbell and her 90 Australians took over the 50th British General Hospital (50BGH), a 1200-bed hospital in Salonica,

The Gallery & Museum will be open from 10am to 5pm over the Easter break, but will be closed Good Friday, April 3.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

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Cr Sobhanian welcomed Gladstone Regional Council welcomed its newest Councillor to the team when PJ Sobhanian took his declaration of office on March 3.

Household Emergency Plan Booklet to help residents prepare and stay safe Have a plan in place before it's too late Gladstone Regional Council, in partnership with various community groups, has produced a Household Emergency Plan Booklet to assist Discovery Coast residents in preparing and coping with local disaster emergencies.

The booklet covers a mix of government and non-government disaster related information, providing residents with a centralised document to adhere to during a disaster season.

Covering a range of topics, the booklet specifies how to create an emergency plan and kit, and put together an evacuation plan and kit.

Booklets have been handed out to residents at a number of 'Prepared?'

Information and Fun Days held at Rosedale and Baffle Creek, and will also be available at the upcoming event in Lowmead at the Lowmead Hall on April 16.

Those attending are encouraged to bring along all their important documents to have scanned on to a free USB to take home and put in their emergency kits.

Baffle Creek Catchment Local Emergency Coordination Committee and Australian Red Cross members are also available to meet residents in their homes, at request, to go through the booklet and its requirements in more detail.

For more information or to register for a workshop contact the Discovery Coast Community Health Service on 4902 1100.

Cr Sobhanian, who had been named as the incoming member of Council at its general meeting on February 17, officially accepted the role in front of a public gallery packed with family, friends and supporters.

The Director of Sunvalley Dental, Cr Sobhanian's interest in the Gladstone Region community included taking on the role as President and Director of Community Services for the Rotary Club of South Gladstone and having coached at Gladstone Wolves Soccer Club.

Cr Sobhanian has since resigned as the incoming Rotary Club President to focus on his Councillor duties. His tenure as the club's Director of Community Services will end in July.

He has also served on a number of dental and academic boards and committees and looks forward to serving the Gladstone Region community in his new capacity as Councillor.

Cr Sobhanian was appointed to Councillor to fill the vacancy left by former councillor Leo Neill-Ballantine's resignation for personal reasons last December.

Regional noticeboards available for community messages If you have an upcoming event or activity and live at either Calliope, Mount Larcom, Agnes Water, Baffle Creek, Lowmead or Turkey Beach, don't forget you can promote your event on one of Council's community noticeboards.

These noticeboards are similar in design to the ones you find outside schools; with large replaceable lettering, and are managed by a designated community group in each of the localities.

Not-for-profit or community organisations can request their messages be displayed with the local contact group, but are advised there are guidelines that govern the process to ensure fairness for everyone.

To find out more, please call Council's Communication & Marketing section on 4970 0700 or the contact in your community, as follows:

Noticeboard Location

Contact

Calliope Cnr of Dawson Highway and Don Cameron Drive

Natasha Duke, Calliope Librarian. Phone 4975 8105 or email natashad@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Mount Larcom Next to RTC, 8 Bismark Street

Judy Major, Mount Larcom RTC. Phone 4975 1205 or email judym@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy Cnr Captain Cook Dr and Springs Rd, Agnes Water

Bendigo Bank. Phone 4974 7080 or email agneswatermailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au

Baffle Creek Sport and Recreation Grounds

Cheryl Charles, phone 4156 6270 or Joanne King, phone 4156 6570 or email tysleigh@bigpond.com

Bridget and Wayne Barker. Phone 4974 1186 or Many Peaks Grand Hotel (lockable display type) email grandhotel.manypeaks1907@gmail.com Lowmead Opposite hall and hotel

Cheryl Barrett. Phone 4902 1125 or email cherylb@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Turkey Beach Cnr Turkey Beach Road and Bells Road

Steve Parnaby, phone 0420 921 095 or Donna Wheeler, phone 0407 745 177 or email Steven_ parnaby01@hotmail.com

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

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BRIEFLY

 Free health assessment The Discover Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) is offering free health assessments designed to assess areas of physical and emotional wellbeing. These are on offer in the DCCHS clinics in Miriam Vale, Baffle Creek, Lowmead and Agnes Water by request. To book, contact the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

 Council meetings Did you know that residents are welcome to attend Gladstone Regional Council's general meetings? The meetings are held at 9am in the Gladstone Administration Centre boardroom, 101 Goondoon Street.

Upcoming meeting dates are April 7 and 21; May 5 and 19 and June 2 and 16.

 Computer Tutor

Mayor Gail Sellers and John Bunting, son of Frank, officially open Calliope's Bunting Park redevelopment.

Council unveils Bunting Park to the Calliope community The $1 million redevelopment at Bunting Park, Calliope was officially opened on March 18, 2015.

The redevelopment project was designed to provide a more family-friendly space for all ages to cater for the growing Calliope population. Work began in November last year with the majority of works completed in late January.

Work included the installation of new playground facilities, a multi-purpose court, bike training area, fresh landscaping, an extension to existing amenities, picnic shelters and barbecues, all of which complement the existing Calliope skate park and public open space.

The playground also features a 'Mouse House', a giant timber roller, the first of its kind to be installed in a Queensland park.

The Calliope and District Community

Bank Branch of Bendigo Bank and Calliope QCWA supported the redevelopment project by providing the funding for a large, new picnic shelter.

The recreational space redevelopment is part of Council's Bunting Park Master Plan, released in 2011, which provides direction for the development of the park over the course of 10 years to ensure the precinct remains a sustainable sport and recreation and open space reserve to 2021 and beyond.

Bunting Park was named in honour of the late Frank Bunting and his family who settled in the Calliope region last century. Frank, who eventually worked for Calliope Shire Council before ill-health forced him to retire, had a master vision for the park area across from his home in Archer Street. He dedicated much time to planting the original trees and shaping the recreational space.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

Technology can be more of an inconvenience when not used correctly.

To ensure it's conveniently used, Council's Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) is offering 'Computer Tutor' sessions every Monday and Friday.

The sessions can range from the basic, turning on the computer and logging on, to the more difficult tasks of making spread sheets. To find out more information or to book phone the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

 Positive Directions It's so easy to react and get caught up in the moment, or say things you don't mean. If this sounds all too familiar and you want to overcome this issue, then the Positive Directions Assertiveness Not Anger Program could be the answer. The four week program is developed around the awareness of the issue, acknowledgment of consequences and responsible development. The program starts on Tuesday, May 5 from 6pm to 9pm and will cost participants $5 a week. To book, phone the Community Advisory Service on 4976 6300.

 Free Counselling Service The Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) offers residents a free counselling service specialising in a range of areas. These include drug and alcohol, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and parenting and relationship issues. This service also offers play therapy for children. To find out more or to book an appointment phone the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

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Sing this song for your chance to win $1000 There's still time to enter Council's 'Don't Dump in my Backyard' song competition, offering $1000 prize money.

Don’t Dump in My Backyard

Song Competition 2015

Council has provided lyrics for 'Don’t Dump in my Backyard' and has invited people to sing the words to life in any music genre with a little room for interpretation.

'Don't Dump in my Backyard' is the slogan for Council's Illegal Dumping and Litter Prevention Strategy which aims to reinforce why we all need to dispose of our rubbish and unwanted goods properly.

The lyrics to the eight verses and chorus of the song reflect the problems waste can cause in our region and how easy it is to prevent.

People of all ages, individuals and groups are encouraged to showcase their musical talents.

Council commissioned local musician Clyde Cameron to record an example version of the song in his own unique style. You can listen to his song on the Council website.

Entries close on Friday, May 15, 2015 with the winner to be announced on May 26.

For competition details and official song lyrics visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/song-competition

SING OUR SONG $1000 to be won!

We’re looking for our very own singing sensation right We’ve written the lyrics here in the Gladstone Regi now we need you to sing on. them to life….in any mus “Don’t Dump in my Back ic style you like. yard” is part of Council’ s campaign to encourage dispose of litter responsi ever yone to bly to keep our region beau tiful.

Councillor Update Cr Matt Burnett

Cr Col Chapman

Phone: 0437 086 401 Email: mattb@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Phone: 0448 883 961 Email: colinc@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Regional Strategy

Portfolio: Environment

Council is well progressed towards finalising the new planning scheme for the Gladstone Region, which is expected to be adopted by June this year. Public consultation of the new planning scheme was undertaken late last year to determine whether our community and other stakeholders were happy with the future direction and planning for growth of the region over the next decade. There were 186 submissions received as part of the public consultation, which have provided important information about the needs of the community. Council is currently considering the submissions received during the public consultation period and whether amendments to the proposed planning scheme will be made as a result. Some submissions, including the Calliope High School land and the Hanson Road Precinct issues, have been hot topics of debate throughout the community and Council has been working hard to ensure that the submitters and the needs of the wider community are met.

The next step will require the endorsement of any proposed changes to the planning scheme by Council and then the State before it can be adopted for operation.

Litter When I read this quote from Joanna Lumley, I know just how she feels. "I hate the hand that comes out of a car and just drops litter in the street. I hate that! For some reason, it just fills me with fury! It's just utter laziness, lack of interest in other people, lack of interest in the planet, in the hedgehog who might eat the plastic bag, it's a lack of concern." Whether it’s in the street, park, creek, backyard, harbour or footpath, why do people do environmental damage by thoughtlessly discarding litter? How can we change their behaviour and mindset? What must be done to curb this insidious action? Council is midway through a media campaign to highlight this issue and to educate the public. It has also taken action to have regular collection along major roads and in bush land. I believe it's working but why should you and I have to pay through rates for the thoughtlessness of a few. Together, let's get the message across that littering is not cool. Do you have a slogan or idea that could spread the message? Please send me an email at colinc@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au or ring me on 0448 883 961.

"Don't Dump in My Backyard"

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 April - May 2015

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Footpath works provide safe community connections Various footpath projects are under way across the region at different stages of preconstruction or construction.

Footpath projects have been programmed for particular areas to offer greater community connectivity.

Recent works have included footpath extensions to link areas and improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and residents with wheelchairs or prams.

Footpath construction in Agnes Water forms part of a staged project to eventually link Agnes Water with Seventeen Seventy.

Latest works include: • Round Hill Road to Tavern Road, Agnes Water footpath extension • Asphalt pathway along Captain Cook Drive, Agnes Water, from Discovery Drive to Surf Club Avenue • Footpath extension at Pacific Avenue, Tannum Sands, from Tannum Sands Hotel Motel to Beach Avenue

There have been limited lifts of the Marina Bridge since late January due to increased risks the bridge could fail or freeze during operations.

Many factors considered in plan to repair Marina Bridge Full bridge closure required during bearing replacement Progression towards repair of the Matthew Flinders Bridge (Marina Bridge) has required careful Council consideration of many factors.

Unfortunately, disruptions to operations of the bascule bridge either affect motorists and pedestrians as road users across the bridge, or operators of tall marine vessels, who require the bridge to be regularly raised for marine passage along Auckland Creek.

Council is mindful that when the bridge is not operating as intended, interruptions can adversely impact either nearby land or marine based businesses.

All options for repair have been assessed and considered.

Only limited lifts of the bridge have occurred, due to increased risks that the structure could fail or freeze during

operations.

Two new pivot bearings for repair of the bridge will be required to be manufactured overseas.

The specialised components weigh about 127 kilograms each and are crucial to the opening operation of the bascule bridge.

At this stage the exact date of bridge repairs is uncertain but the bridge must be in its lowered, horizontal state to replace the bearing mechanism.

Upon delivery of components the bridge will be closed to motorists, pedestrians and all marine traffic until repairs are complete.

During the closure marine vessels will be restricted passage along Auckland Creek while motorists will be required to use Alf O'Rourke Drive as an alternative access to the Marina Parklands.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

Footpath extensions offer greater community connectivity across the region.

Upgrade of pumps and sewerage station facility meets future needs A contract has been awarded for upgrade of the Palm Drive, Gladstone, Sewerage Pump Station (SPS).

The current SPS catchment was identified as having insufficient emergency storage and pump capacity to cater for existing and future suburban development.

Pump upgrades and facility modification will improve operational efficiencies, increase storage capacity and reduce potential environmental risks from overflows.

Page 11

Building and Plumbing

UPDATE Building

From May 1, the National Construction Code 2015 Volumes One to Three will be available for free from the Australian Building Codes Board website.

Visit www.abcb.gov.au for details. 

Shipping and railway containers are not permitted in residential areas unless advice is sought from Council's Development Services division. 

Pensioners asked to update rate subsidy information Council has issued 1600 letters to pensioners in the Gladstone Region containing a new rates subsidy application form.

Once completed the signed application form must be returned with a copy of the ratepayer's Pension Concession Card or DVA Gold Card.

The form contains vital information that allows Council to ensure pensioners receive the full rate subsidy benefit to which they are entitled.

Application forms should be returned to Council by Monday, April 27, 2015.

The process of updating these forms gives Council the opportunity to add new spousal pension details not previously held in the system, and to update contact telephone numbers.

All pension remissions are verified with Centrelink or the Department of Veteran Affairs prior to the generation of the Annual Rates Notice in August each year.

The review of the current pension details will not affect any remission granted for the 2014-15 rating period but updated application forms must be returned to Council to ensure pensioners receive their remission for the 2015-16 rating period.

For more information please contact Council's Rates section on 4976 6999.

Residents who have pools and spas must ensure they comply with Queensland Government legislation. Pool fence barriers need to comply with Australian Standard AS1926.1-2012 and Part MP3.4 of the Queensland Development Code. To check if your poor or spa complies, contact Council's Development Services division on 4970 0700. 

A monthly report providing a breakdown of Building and Plumbing approvals and development statistics is available from Council's website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ development-statistics

Plumbing Council's Plumbing Inspectors will conduct routine inspections on trade waste requirements and facilities and backflow devices around the region over the coming months. 

An audit of Council's backflow system is currently under way. License renewals will be issued shortly. 

Council hosted a successful Plumbing Roadshow in conjunction with the Plumbing Industry Council on March 20. The Roadshow was attended by Council's plumbing staff and representatives from local businesses. 

Planning Matters Draft Planning Scheme update Work on Gladstone Regional Council's Draft Planning Scheme is continuing to progress following public feedback late last year.

Council's Development Services Division are in the process of reviewing more than 180 submissions and will respond to all submitters in coming weeks.

After the draft planning scheme has been revised based on community feedback, it will then be sent to the Queensland Government's Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning

for approval.

The timeframes for Council to adopt the final planning scheme are dependent on the length of the State Government approval process, but Council hopes to be in a position to adopt the new scheme mid 2015.

For more information on the planning scheme process visit www.gladstone.qld. gov.au/draft-planning-scheme Development applications Gladstone Regional Council's

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

Development Services team is taking a proactive approach to town planning.

The team is encouraging developers to arrange a pre-lodgement meeting with Council prior to lodging a development application.

This approach aims to reduce approval timeframes by achieving the desired development outcomes for both Council and the developer.

For more information on lodging development applications with Council contact the Development Services division on 4970 0700.

Page 12

YOUTH PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Car Maintenance Workshop FREE Bill Robertson Toyota, Gladstone Wednesday, April 15 6pm-8pm Bookings essential. Phone 4976 6306 Resumé Preparation FREE Bookings essential. Phone 4976 6306 15-25 years GLADSTONE Tuesday, April 14 6pm-8pm Community Advisory Service, Goondoon Street

National Youth Week 2015 Busy calendar of events for Youth Week celebrations An exciting range of events and activities have been scheduled to celebrate 2015 National Youth Week from Friday, April 10 to Sunday, April 19.

to assist locals aged 15-25 who may have never had to prepare an employment resumé before. Parents and carers are able to attend and assist the participants.

Gladstone Regional Council will launch its program of events, with the Mayor's Youth Breakfast on Friday, April 10.

Young people aged 12-25 were invited to nominate for the invitation breakfast which will honour those making significant achievements and contributions to our community.

Other activities include the Skate Park Competition at Calliope Skate Park; Master Chef Challenge at Cedar Galleries; Fishing with Johnny Mitchell at Canoe Point and a Movie Night at Boyne Island.

New to the program this year are the free Resumé Preparation Workshops designed

The complete program of events and booking details are available at www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/youth-events-andactivities

BOYNE ISLAND/TANNUM SANDS Wednesday, April 15 6pm-8pm Boyne Tannum Community Centre, Cnr Wyndham and Hayes Ave AGNES WATER Thursday, April 16 11am-1pm Agnes Water Community Centre, 71 Springs Road Rumble in the Park (Bubble Soccer) Gladstone PCYC Thursday, April 16 2pm-4.30pm

FREE

Bubble Painting Workshop FREE Mount Larcom Youth Shed Friday, April 17 10am-12.30pm

Centres provide many government services Council's Rural Transaction centres at Agnes Water and Mount Larcom are virtual one stop government shops.

The centres provide easy access to a wide range of government services to residents in rural areas of the Gladstone Region.

Funding for the centres is provided, in part, by the Federal Government through its Regional Partnerships Agreement program designed to make important services more accessible to those living in remote or rural locations.

Among the many government services available at the centres are Centrelink, Medicare and Australia Post (Mount Larcom only), Queensland Government Services (Agnes Water only) and both also feature EFTPOS facilities.

For more information about the Agnes Water and Mount Larcom Rural Transaction centres visit Council's website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ rural-transaction-centres or contact the transaction centres directly via the following information:

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection April - May 2015

Agnes Water Rural Transaction Centre: 71 Springs Road, Agnes Water QLD 4677 Phone: 4902 1515 Fax: 4902 1599 Email: AgnesWaterRTC@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au Mount Larcom Rural Transaction Centre: Raglan Street, Mt Larcom (PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680) Phone: 4975 1205 Fax: 4975 1437 Email: mtlarcom@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Page 13

Diabetes Getting the Balance Right Council's Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) is taking bookings for the 'Diabetes Getting the Balance Right' program this month.

The five-week program covers a range of topics to help individuals better understand, prevent or manage their Type 2 diabetes.

Topics will include diabetes managements and blood glucose control; diabetes and food; lifestyle factors; strategies for supporting lifestyle change; and looking after yourself physically and emotionally.

Influenza vaccine at Discovery Coast The annual flu season is despised by many as it can result in numerous trips to the doctors and unwanted time off work.

Don't let the flu get to you this season, if eligible, head to a Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) clinic for a free influenza vaccine.

The vaccine will be available at several locations in the Discovery Coast including Rosedale, Turkey Beach, Lowmead, Miriam Vale, Baffle Creek and Agnes Water.

Residents eligible for the vaccine, include people aged over 65; pregnant women; of Aboriginal/ Torres Strait Islander decent aged six months to under five years and 15 years and older; and any person six months of age or older with a chronic condition including diabetes, heart, lung or kidney disease.

Locations and Dates: Rosedale Community Hall Monday, April 20, 11am - 1pm Turkey Beach Rural Fire Brigade Station Tuesday, April 21, 9am - 11.30am Lowmead Hall Tuesday, April 21, 1.30pm - 3pm Miriam Vale Community Hall Wednesday, April 22, 9am - noon Baffle Creek DCCHS Clinic Donga (at the Sport and Rec fields) Thursday, April 23, 1pm - 3pm Agnes Water DCCHS Clinic 2 Rafting Ground Road, Agnes Water, by appointment after Monday, April 20

The program will be held every Wednesday at the Agnes Water DCCHS Clinic from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, starting May 13.

Sessions will include light refreshments, discussion and preparation and tasting of delicious, diabetic friendly food.

DCCHS is also seeking expressions of interest from residents who have Type 2 diabetes, care for a Type 2 diabetic or are at risk of developing diabetes, to host the 'Diabetes - Getting the Balance Right' program at Miriam Vale.

The Miriam Vale program will be offered from 1pm to 3pm, every Wednesday, starting May 13.

To book or to register an expressions of interest, call the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

For more information or to make a booking, phone 4902 1100.

Cultural Calendar 10am - 1pm, Saturday 11 April, 2015 JEMIMA WYMAN: PATTERN BANDITS ON TOUR - an exciting program of specially designed hands-on and multimedia activities for kids, developed by the Children’s Art Centre initiative of the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAG|GOMA) and supported by IKEA.

18 April - 20 June - official launch 6pm Friday, 17 April CREAM: FOUR DECADES OF AUSTRALIAN ART - a survey of 20th Century Australian art by some of the country's most recognised artists. A Rockhampton Art Gallery exhibition, toured by Museums & Galleries Queensland.

16 May - 20 June - official launch 6pm Friday 15 May REFLECTIONS OF YESTERYEAR - MARIE GREEN - paintings by local artist examining the everyday lives of Queenslanders living and working in tough conditions between 1880 and 1980.

The show has been assisted by the Gladstone Region Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a Queensland Government and Gladstone Regional Council partnership program to support local arts and culture.

Cnr Goondoon & Bramston Sts, Gladsone I Phone 4976 6766 I http://gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Gladstone Regional Council -FREE TheADMISSION Council Connection April - May 2015 Closed Good Fri. Open Easter Sat, Sun & Mon, and ANZAC Page 14 - Open 10am-5pm, Mon-Sat Day

Community CALENDAR

2015 SHOW CALENDAR

APRIL Date

Name of the event

Location

Contact

1-5

Gladstone Harbour Festival

Marina Parklands

4972 5111

DATE

SHOW

2

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

Gladstone City Library

4976 6300

APR 13

Moscow Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty

7-9

Time Travel Craft

Various libraries

4976 6400

APR 14

FLAK

7 & 21

General Council Meeting

Gladstone Administration Centre

4970 0700

APR 21

MM: Colleen Hewett

APR 23

11 & 19 Teen Book Club Launch

Various libraries

4976 6400

The Ten Tenors On Broadway

14

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

MAY 5

Coppelia

MAY 6

Charmaine Wilson

MAY 9

The John Denver Story

MAY 10

Melbourne International Comedy Festival

MAY 14

Damien Leith

MAY 16

Boys in the Band

MAY 20

Andrew Stong The Commitments Tour

MAY 22

Roy Orbison & The Everly Brothers In Concert

MAY 24

ACO2’s Around the World with Benjamin Schmid

JUN 23

MM: John Macnally

Language Café National Youth Week

14-16

ANZAC Centenary Craft

Various libraries

4976 6400

16

Lowmead 'Prepared?'

Information and Fun Day

Lowmead Hall

4902 1100

18

Councillor Community Awareness Session

Stockland Gladstone

4970 0700

Date

Name of the event

Location

Contact

2

Gladstone City Library Blogging Workshop

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

5 & 19

General Council Meeting

Gladstone Administration Centre

4670 0700

7

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea Gladstone City Library

4976 6300

JUN 26

The 26-Storey Treehouse

12

Language Café

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

JUL 4

The Wiggles

13

Book Club Coffee Cruise

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

JUL 16

ERTH’S Dinosaur Zoo

16

Movies in the Gardens Despicable Me 2

Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

4971 4444

JUL 18

Kelly

16

Councillor Community Awareness Session

Stockland Gladstone

4970 0700

JUL 24

Matthew Hale

AUG 18

MM: Lucky Starr

19

John Cunnington Thriller Book Launch

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

AUG 21

Stripey

AUG 24

19

Holiday and Travel Tips Session

Gladstone City Library

4976 6400

Snow White and the Seven Cool Dudes

23

Art NAIDOC 2015

Gallery & Museum

4976 6766

AUG 29

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase

30

Santos GLNG Mayor's Charity Ball Gladstone Entertainment 4972 2822 Convention Centre

OCT 20

MM: Scott Irwin and Danielle Barnes

31

Ecofest

DEC 1

MM: Jackie Love

MAY

Every Free Guided Garden Tours Thursday

Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

4970 0700

Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

4971 4444

SHOWS ON SALE SOON •

Heartmoves The Heart Foundation's Heartmoves program is a low intensity, physical activity session suitable for anyone who hasn't exercised in a while, or those with a stable, long-term, health condition.

Participants can exercise in a friendly atmosphere at their own pace and the program is run by an accredited exercise professional.

For more information phone 4902 1100.

Locations and Dates: Rosedale Community Hall: Every Monday, from 9.30am Lowmead Hall: Every Tuesday, from 7.30am Baffle Creek Sport and Rec Hall: Every Tuesday, from 9.30am Miriam Vale Community Hall: Every Wednesday, from 9am Agnes Water Community Hall: Every Thursday, from 9am

• •

Marney McQueen’s Hair to the Throne Oz Opera - The Magic Flute Laughing Samoans

• •

•

Bangarra Dance Queensland Symphony Orchestra Reserved Seating Only

BOX OFFICE 9.00am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and one hour prior to any Centre ticketed performance. P: 4972 2822 www.gladecc.com.au Follow us your way

Contact Vernetta Perrett (07) 4976 6300 #itstartswithus An Australian, State, Territory and Local Government Initiative

An Australian, State, Territory and Local Government Initiative

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S T R A STWITH S U Sunday IT STARTS WITH US Na

Saturday 30th May 2015

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Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre From 6pm until midnight Dress - Black tie $1,500 per table of 10 + booking fee includes a 3 course dinner and selected beverages

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GladstoneTondoon Natio Botanic Gardens

May 31, 2015

9am to 3pm –19 April 2015

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• Children’s activities • Live entertainment • Food & drinks • Displays • Wildlife • Stalls

2015 Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ecofest for program details