Council Connection December 2015 - January 2016

COUNCIL

CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2015 - JANUARY 2016 ISSUE 69

2016

INSIDE Australia Day Celebrations

5

6 Chapman Drive works near

11 Waterway management

12 Staff pink for charity

Mayor's Message Christmas is a time for reflection as well as celebration As 2015 draws to a close, it poses an ideal time to reflect on the year almost over, and the one that lies ahead.

Following years of rapid change for the Gladstone Region, it is certain that change itself will remain a constant in

Cover Filmfest is one of the 37 events offered as part of SUNfest 2016.

Page 3

Council Connection This newsletter is produced every two months by Gladstone Regional Council to inform residents about Council events, activities, services and projects.

It is printed on 60% recycled paper.

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 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 48.6 cents per household per edition.

our lives next year.

New shops, restaurants and other businesses will open their doors, new entertainment options will arise and an increasing number of visitors will come to our region, including those arriving via the forthcoming P&O cruise liner service to Gladstone.

The past has taught us that the Gladstone Region is capable of accommodating rapid change and has successfully negotiated its way through times of transition.

The lessons we have learnt from the past enable us to carefully plan for the future and give us the knowledge to safely navigate the challenges posed by future change.

Similarly, Christmas is a time for us all, as

individuals, to take stock of the past year and plan for the future we want to achieve.

It is also a time when we gather to show appreciation to those loved ones, friends and family, who will take that journey with us or provide the support we need to see our plans come to fruition.

It can be easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas when its commercial aspects are so prominent around us, but it is important that we hold on to the traditional ideal of peace and goodwill to all - a message that rings true across all cultures and beliefs.

So spend time with loved ones, be thankful for all that we have, and let's look forward to another exciting year ahead for the wonderful Gladstone Region.

On behalf of Gladstone Regional Council, I wish all residents, their families and friends, as well as those who are visiting our region, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

If you are travelling this festive season, please be careful on our roads and return to us safe and sound so we can all enjoy what 2016 brings to the Gladstone Region.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas: Gladstone Region Councillors and Mayor

Cr Gail Sellers - Mayor

Cr Col Chapman - Councillor

Cr Graham McDonald - Councillor

Cr Maxine Brushe - Councillor

Cr Rick Hansen - Councillor

Cr Karen Porter - Councillor

Portfolio: Engineering Services Mobile: 0448 885 047 Email: rickhansen@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Economic Development Strategy Mobile: 0417 723 042 Email: karenporter@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Cr Ren Lanzon - Councillor

Cr PJ Sobhanian - Councillor

Mobile: 0448 883 134 Email: mayor@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Community Services Mobile: 0448 882 609 Email: maxineb@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Cr Matt Burnett - Deputy Mayor Portfolio: Regional Strategy Mobile: 0437 086 401 Email: mattb@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Council Contacts PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680 Phone: 4970 0700 Fax: 4975 8500 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Office Hours: 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Portfolio: Environment Mobile: 0448 883 961 Email: colinc@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Arts & Culture Mobile: 0417 732 640 Email: renlanzon@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Gladstone Office 101 Goondoon Street Gladstone Qld 4680

Calliope Office

5 Don Cameron Drive Calliope Qld 4680

Portfolio: Parks & Recreation Mobile: 0409 730 469 Email: grahamm@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Portfolio: Rural Services Mobile: 0412 544 201 Email: pjs@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Miriam Vale Office 41 Blomfield Street Miriam Vale Qld 4677

www.gladstone.qld.gov.au www.facebook.com/GladstoneRegionalCouncil

Builyan to get new playground Builyan's Pine Street Park is set to get a modern children's playground but Council wants to know which of three options residents want.

Council allocated $45,000 this financial year to fit out the park with children's play equipment and has narrowed down the options to three as their cost is within the budgeted figure and they meet safety standards.

Jam-packed SUNfest holiday program to keep youth entertained The 2016 SUNfest youth holiday program offers 37 low cost activities from January 11 to 22.

This year's jam-packed program is targeted at 11 to 17 year olds with tickets on sale from 10am on Wednesday, December 2.

Organised by Gladstone Festivals and Events on behalf of Council, SUNfest provides a variety of indoor and outdoor events and activities.

This year's program includes adrenalinepumping outdoor activities ranging from laser skirmish to paintball, adventure caving, go-karts, canoeing, surfing, indoor rock climbing, abseiling, trapeze and aerial skills workshops.

Exciting additions to the 2016 program include a Popping and Locking dance workshop with two-time Australia's Got Talent finalist, Sheru, from Swagamama, and a week-long DJ workshop with professional DJ Cliftonia.

Also making its SUNfest debut is a one day Adventure Caving and Bats and Bones

tour, which includes a bus trip to Capricorn Caves at Rockhampton.

2016 Youth Holiday Program 11-22 January, 2016 Book onlin

e at www.gladecc.com.au Youth can also choose Ticket Enquiries: 4972 2822 to produce skateboard art, make a short film, learn photography techniques, create woodcraft, cook, participate in dance workshops, play music and more.

Residents of Builyan and Many Peaks were sent letters earlier this month advising them of the initiative and requesting feedback, but the consultation is open to all residents with information and a feedback form available at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ have-your-say The closing date for submissions is Monday, December 7, 2015.

For further information, phone Council on 4970 0700 or email info@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

For more information or general enquiries please call Gladstone Festival and Events on 4972 5111

The SUNfest program is held at venues and locations across the Gladstone Region.

Various prices apply with some activities scheduled as multi-day events.

Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person at Council's administration centres, rural transaction centres and the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre.

Browse the SUNfest program at www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/sunfest

Australian Idol finalist to headline at Gladstone’s Carols by Candlelight The festive season will be welcomed in style with former Australian Idol contestant Paulini launching the 'Santos GLNG Mayoral Carols by Candlelight presented by 4CC', at the Gladstone Marina Parklands on Friday, December 4.

The Fijian-born songstress is still one of only 10 Australian female solo artists to have a number one album on the Australian ARIA Charts.

The night will be compered by 4CC’s breakfast announcer Jace and includes an

array of talented school choirs and soloists from the Gladstone Region, plus a bumper fireworks display.

The carols program commences at 6.20pm and entry is free. The community is encouraged to come along after 3pm to set up their blankets and chairs and make the most of food and refreshments.

Pre-entertainment, from 5pm, includes the Ronald McDonald and Friends Show and the Gladstone Municipal and Thistle Pipe Bands.

Gladstone’s Marina Bridge will be open to vehicle and pedestrian access for the event and parking will be available opposite the marina stage area via a gold coin donation to the Gladstone Navy Cadets.

Dogs and alcohol are not permitted.

BRIEFLY  Pay rates by instalments You can pay your rates in advance by instalments to reduce the burden of paying as a lump sum at rates time each year. There are many options available and we also have the new MyPost Digital option which allows you to receive your rates notice digitally. Find out more by visiting www.gladstone.qld.gov.au

 Council meetings Did you know that residents are welcome to attend Council's general meetings?

These meetings are held from 9am at the Gladstone Administration Centre boardroom, 101 Goondoon Street. Upcoming meeting dates are December 1, December 15 and January 19.

 Change of address 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 complete the form online at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/change-ofaddress

 Get your Ready guide Council and QGC have joined forces to release 'Ready?'

Guide to preparing for natural disasters and emergencies.

This guide is available at your nearest Council administration centre or online at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ emergencies

Residents urged to take steps now to reduce mosquito numbers Council conducts an annual mosquito control program within the Gladstone Region, but there is much that residents can do to help reduce mosquito numbers.

Throughout the year, and particularly the period between October and May, Council's vector control staff monitor and treat mosquito breeding sites to reduce the number of mosquitoes affecting residents.

Council also records, investigates and monitors complaints about problem areas received from the public.

Only approved environmentally safe products are used and Council's prime focus is to reduce the incidence of the Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses within the region.

While Council's program is effective in reducing mosquito numbers, they cannot be eradicated completely.

Residents can contribute to mosquito reduction by ensuring their homes and yards do not serve as breeding grounds for the insect.

Many mosquito species found in the backyard are potential carriers of the Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses,

dengue fever and dog heartworm, and their numbers can be controlled by residents taking the following steps: • Inspect your house and yard and remove any accumulations of water; • Empty pot plant bases weekly or fill the base with sand to absorb water; • Bromeliads and other water holding plants should be washed out weekly; • Clean roof gutters out regularly and trim back trees which can block gutters; • Ensure rainwater tanks are screened; • Keep swimming pools maintained; • Birdbaths, fishponds and ornamental pools should be washed out weekly and, where possible, stocked with suitable native fish; and • Stock dams with native fish and keep the edges clear of vegetation.

For more information about Council's mosquito management plan, visit Council's website at www.gladstone. qld.gov.au

 Like us on Facebook

Students swap classroom for board room

Do you prefer to get your news online?

If so, 'Like' Council on Facebook to receive the latest updates about the things concerning you! Likers will receive general information on Council events and activities, in addition to all the disaster management severe weather warnings. To connect with Council on Facebook, visit www.gladstone.qld.gov. au and follow the social media links from the home page.

Thirteen high school students attended Council's October 20 general meeting to gain a greater understanding of Council and its local laws.

The year 11 class, undertaking a small legal studies unit as part of their lessons, was accompanied by teacher Damian Jensen.

They were able to experience a Council meeting in progress and gain an understanding of some of the topics

handled at a local government level.

Following the general meeting, the group listened to a short presentation by Council's Regulatory Services Manager.

The presentation explained to students the role of regulatory services within Council, defined what Council regulates, mentioned the types of fines and notices issued

by Council and described the process required for local law amendments.

Page 4

Celebrat

AUSTRAL

e

IA

day

Australia Day fun to echo around the region Council will soon consider applications received to host Australia Day community events.

Information on communities awarded donations and the locations and times of 2016 Australia Day community events will be available on Council's website in January at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/australia-dayregional-events Each year Council offers financial assistance to regional communities to enable Australia Day celebrations to be organised in their townships.

Tennille Dykstra holds commemorative medallions for Council's Australia Day Awards nominees and extends an invitation to residents to attend the annual awards.

Nominations close, Council gets ready for Australia Day Awards Night Nominations have closed for Council's 2016 Australia Day Awards and information is now being compiled and finalised for the judging process.

There are eight award categories, including Citizen of the Year; Young Citizen of the Year; Arts & Culture Award; Senior Sportsperson Award; Young Sportsperson Award; Sports Official Award; Community Volunteer Award; and Community Event or Initiative Award.

Council's 2016 Australia Day Awards will be announced at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre on Monday, January 25 from 6.15pm for a

Groups have been able to apply for donations until November 30 to host Australia Day community events to complement Council's major Australia Day event.

For more information contact Council's Community Donations Officer Janine Sorrensen on 4976 6351 or email janines@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

6.30pm start.

All residents are invited to attend the evening, which includes a Citizenship Ceremony as well as the announcement and presentation of Australia Day Awards.

This is an opportunity to congratulate the region's Australia Day Award winners and share light refreshments and a slice of the Australia Day 2016 cake cut by the Citizen of the Year.

Residents interested in attending the event should RSVP by January 4 to Tennille Dykstra at tennilled@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au or phone 4976 6912.

Family fun breakfast to be held as Council's major Australia Day event Council's major public celebrations for Australia Day will be slightly modified in 2016 with the event to change to an Australia Day Family Fun Breakfast.

Residents will be able to enjoy the cooler hours of the day on January 26 with celebrations scheduled from 8am to noon at Gladstone's Marina Parklands.

Organised by Gladstone Festival & Events, on behalf of Council, there will be plenty of

entertainment, activities and a free sausage sizzle.

The Family Fun Breakfast will encourage residents to join in the fun and celebrate being Australian.

The Australian flag will be raised at 9am to commemorate the day and winners of Council's 2016 Australia Day Awards will be presented on stage.

The event will include cricket and 'Aussie' activities as well as performances by roving and local entertainers.

Children will be able to participate in a range of activities and various food stalls will operate.

The Australia Day Family Fun Breakfast program will be available closer to the date at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/australia-dayfamily-fun-day Page 5

Chapman Drive works to get under way Work on the major reconstruction of Chapman Drive in Clinton is due to start in early January.

The reconstruction is a combination of four separate projects, including: • The installation of traffic signals at the intersection of Chapman Drive and Ballantine Street; • An upgrade of the intersection of Chapman Drive and J Hickey Avenue; • Renewal of Chapman Drive carriageway; and • The installation of a 375mm water main down the northern side of Chapman Drive to improve the delivery of potable water to the Clinton area.

Both intersections have been identified as being in need of an upgrade in order to cope with forecast traffic volumes, and the traffic lights at the Chapman DriveBallantine Street intersection will make it safer for motorists to cross Chapman Drive and to enter and exit the Chapman Plaza shopping centre.

The four projects, identified as high priority needs for Chapman Drive, will be conducted sequentially to minimise disruptions to road users and neighbouring residents and businesses.

Temporary entry and exit facilities will provide access to the Chapman Plaza shopping centre and Gladstone Village

Motel on Ballantine Street while Chapman Drive residents will find intermittent periods of driveway closures while footpath and verge works occur.

Council will provide advanced notification of all works that affect driveway accesses to ensure those affected can make alternative arrangements.

The project is expected to be completed in June, 2016.

Information on the project will be available throughout the duration of the works on Council's website at www.gladstone.qld. gov.au or by phoning Council on 4970 0700.

Summer Reading Club

Summer Reading Club is coming to Gladstone Region Libraries. This activity is an Australia-wide program run between December 1 and January 31 aimed at encouraging children to read and develop a sense of community with other children across the country. Each year regional libraries provide reading lists and host competitions related to a set theme, which this year is 'Lost Worlds'. To have your children discover great Australian authors and illustrators and share their voice by engaging in literary and creative activities, online and at libraries, contact your nearest library.

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

On November 3 Council approved the successful tender for the redevelopment of Alf Larson/Lions Park in Miriam Vale. This is a project I have believed in from day one and I am pleased to see that work will start in January 2016. The project will include the revitalisation of the Heritage-listed War Memorial, a caravan and motorhome parking facility with an effluent dumping point, new amenities, toddlers' play area, picnic shelters and barbecue and purpose built play equipment to take advantage of the heritage precinct and established trees. Weather permitting, the project will be completed by the end of June. Another project close to my heart is the Turkey Beach Community Hall. A location and design has been settled and a contractor has been engaged to commence the build. Weather permitting, the hall should be completed in April 2016. The new hall will include a kitchen, private meeting room (which will be suitable for health consultations etc) and toilets that will have public-access outside of hours. This may seem like a small project to some, but I am confident that this important gathering place for the residents of and visitors to Turkey Beach will quickly become the community hub that people have been seeking for many years.

Looking back on the past nine years representing the community, I am filled with a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I have made a difference to our region. On reflection, the most significant change in that period has been a greater awareness of the environment by the community and businesses, and the recognition that we must act to save and preserve our beautiful region. As well as legislative change, there has been a shift in society's eco-awareness. One of my choices has been to work through the system to change the culture of government, business and community. It has also been a privilege to represent the community's concern for the natural environment, and my involvement has included the Gladstone Region Environmental Advisory Network (GREAN), Clean and Healthy Air for Gladstone Project, Gladstone Healthy Harbour Partnership, Reef Guardian Council Committee, and the Environment Portfolio in Council. If you feel strongly about the environment, please consider putting your hand up for the next Council election in March 2016; it is satisfying and rewarding. I am retiring but urge you to stand up for the environment and stand as, or support, a candidate who is passionate about the natural environment. Thank you for allowing me to work for you. From the words of Marlee Martin "The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth."

Page 6

Rural firies, SES looking for volunteers

QGC's Social Performance Manager Lorna McGinnis and Mayor Gail Sellers look over READY? - the Natural Disasters & Emergencies Guide

Disaster Management and the cyclone season The official cyclone season for 2015-16 has begun with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting fewer cyclones because of the El Nino weather influence.

While it may be a quieter season ahead, Gladstone Regional Council is still encouraging everyone to be proactive in preparing for emergency situations.

Community safety is everyone's responsibility and early preparation is so important if we're to cope with unpredictable weather events.

To help residents prepare, Council has produced 'READY?' - Your Guide to Preparing for Natural Disasters and Emergencies.

The booklet outlines, in an easy to read format, how to prepare for different scenarios whether you're sheltering at home or evacuating.

It also tells you what to put in prepared emergency and evacuation kits which are essential for helping your family deal with difficult situations.

If you didn't receive a copy in your letterbox, you can pick one up from Council's Administration Centre at 101 Goondoon Street or your nearest library.

QGC has made another valuable contribution to community safety by donating a $47,000 generator for the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC).

During a weather emergency such as a cyclone or flooding, the GECC acts as a temporary shelter for residents who've had to evacuate their homes.

The generator will provide a backup power source if regular electricity is interrupted.

Further information to help you during a disaster or emergency is available on Council's website at www.gladstone.qld. gov.au/web/guest/emergencies If something does happen during the Summer, head to Council's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ GladstoneRegionalCouncil for the latest news.

If you've ever thought of becoming an Emergency Services volunteer for a Rural Fire Services brigade or the SES, now is the time to join up.

With the fire season under way and the cyclone season having just begun, both groups are looking for new members in the Agnes Water/ Seventeen Seventy area as well as Port Curtis.

Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy RFSB wants to increase membership by 10 to 36 volunteers.

There's no upper age limit but junior members have to be at least 16 to join and will be mentored until they're 18.

Men and women, especially fit, active retirees, who can attend fires readily, are keenly sought.

A range of training courses are available locally from fire minimal skills (FMS) to chain saw operation and flood and cyclone clean up.

If you don't want to fight fires, you can become an office bearer or do clerical work.

The SES at Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy is also looking for more volunteers, with only five active members at the moment.

Safety and communications training is available, while members must obtain a first aid qualification.

Anyone interested in volunteering for the Rural Fire Service or the SES should go to www.emergency.qld. gov.au or www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au and follow the links to volunteering.

Single planning scheme for Gladstone Region After years of development, Gladstone Regional Council has a new region-wide planning scheme.

The Gladstone Regional Planning Scheme 2015 was adopted by Council in early October.

Since amalgamation in 2008, Gladstone Regional Council has operated under the former Gladstone City, Calliope Shire and Miriam Vale Shire councils' planning schemes.

This key plan provides a consistent approach to land use and development

management throughout the entire region and allows Council to streamline processes and systems.

The Gladstone Regional Planning Scheme and planning scheme policies can be viewed online at www.gladstone.qld. gov.au and are available for inspection or purchase at Council’s Customer Service centres.

Council's Development Section can be contacted for further information on phone 4970 0700 or email info@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Page 7

Waste collection services to continue for festive season

Boyne Tannum Community Centre Customer Services Officer , Veronica Shaw, preparing for the Christmas Tree Extravaganza

Council's household waste and recycling collection services will operate without interruption during the Christmas and New Year period.

Waste collection services falling on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year's Day will continue as scheduled with residents asked to place their wheelie bins on the kerbside for emptying by 6am.

Residents are also asked to not bag recyclable items, instead placing them loosely in the yellow lidded recycle bins, and to maximise space by crushing or folding items and flattening plastic containers to remove air.

Christmas Tree Extravaganza proves annual drawcard at Boyne library Can you imagine 200 excited children all in one big room, with their parents and Boyne Island Library helpers, working some Christmas craft magic?

That will be the busy scene at the Boyne Tannum Community Centre's Port Curtis Room on Wednesday, December 2 from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

The event is the 14th Annual Christmas Tree Extravaganza where children up to the age of Grade 3 and their parents are invited to come along after school to enjoy the activities.

Craft materials will be provided for the

kids to make three different decorations they can then use to decorate the Centre's Christmas tree.

Boyne Island State School's Instrumental Music Group and St Francis School's choir will entertain everyone with Christmas music and carols during the afternoon.

Food scraps to be deposited in red or green lid bins, particularly meat and seafood waste, are best stored in the household freezer to reduce odour and prevent fly breeding, before being placed in wheelie bins shortly prior to collection.

More information about waste collection services can be viewed on Council's website at www.gladstone. qld.gov.au/waste

A visit from Santa, along with afternoon tea, will complete the hour of fun for everyone who comes along.

There'll also be a small promotion for the Library's Summer Reading Club coming up later during the school holidays.

Waste transfer stations Christmas trading hours Gladstone Region residents are advised that Council's Benaraby Landfill and various waste transfer stations will continue normal operational hours during the festive season aside from Christmas Day. All transfer stations will be closed on December 25 except Benaraby Landfill which will operate from 7am to 3pm on that day.

Waste facility opening hours are as follows: Agnes Water Transfer Station - 8am to noon, seven days per week (closed Christmas Day).

Baffle Creek Transfer Station - 1pm to 4pm, Thursday to Monday (closed Christmas Day).

Benaraby Landfill - 7am to 5.30pm, seven days per week (Christmas Day 7am to 3pm).

Bororen Transfer Station - 8am to noon, Thursday to Monday (closed Christmas Day).

Calliope Transfer Station - 1pm to 5pm, seven days per week (closed Christmas Day).

Gladstone Transfer Station - 7am to 5.30pm, seven days per week (closed Christmas Day).

Mount Larcom Transfer Station - 7am to 10am, Thursday to Monday (closed Christmas Day).

Nagoorin Transfer Station - 8am to 11am, Saturday and Wednesday, 1pm to 4pm, Sunday (closed Christmas Day).

Rosedale Transfer Station - 8am to 11am, Thursday to Monday, (closed Christmas Day).

Turkey Beach Transfer Station - 8am to 11am, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (closed Christmas Day).

Yarwun Transfer Station - 8am to 11am, Saturday and Sunday (closed Christmas Day).

For waste facility locations and additional information visit Council's website at www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/web/guest/transferstations-and-landfills

Page 8

Digital artist wins $15,000 top prize Internationally active digital artist, curator, cultural commentator and academic Gary Carley has taken out the prestigious 40th Rio Tinto Martin Hanson Memorial Art Award and the lucrative $15,000 top prize.

His work, titled 'Paradise Parrot', a framed print of a digital 'Paradise Parrot' on an 1850 side cabinet, was one of two outstanding works he entered in the annual awards, held at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum.

The judge for this year's nationally-acclaimed awards was Simon Wright, Assistant Director (Learning and Public Engagement) Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art The 40th Rio Tinto Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards & Exhibition 2015 continues at the Gallery and Museum until 5pm on Thursday, December 10.

Everyone is welcome to visit and entry is free.

WINNERS LIST: Overall The Rio Tinto Martin Hanson Memorial Art Award ($15,000): Gary Carsley, 'Paradise Parrot' (1850 Side Cabinet).

The John Anderson Memorial Acquisitive Award, sponsored

by Anderson's Auto City ($5,000): David Baade, 'Heading Home'.

The Peter Greenwood Memorial Young Emergent Artist Award, sponsored by Multitrade ($1,500): Kate Simons, 'Inclusion'.

The Local Murri Artist Award, sponsored by Elizabeth and Leo Zussino ($1,000): Belynda (Bindi) Waugh, 'Seeking Beauty Finding Sacred'.

The Yaralla Sports Club Local Artist Award ($1,000): Sue Daw, 'That's One Heck of a Worm'.

The Installers Choice Award, sponsored by Laureen Tkacik and GRAGM ($500): Lidia Godijn, 'Fibre Reflected in Industry'.

Section 1: Easel Paintings The LauraLou Jay Memorial Award ($2,000): David Allen, 'Full Moon at Sunrise'.

The Christian Thomsen Award ($1,000): Collin Hatter, 'Trio'.

The Gladstone Picture Framing (Open Order) Award ($500): Beryl Wood, 'Queue for ‌'.

Section 2: Works on Paper The Australia Pacific LNG Award ($2,000): Rew Hanks, 'The Captain and his Bunnies' The Elders Gladstone Award ($1,000): Ping Carlyon, 'My Everything, My 2015'.

The Lightbox Espresso and Wine Bar Award ($500): James Thomas, 'Nightingale The Seat of Deceit'.

Highly Commended: Auda Maclean, 'This Ancient Land'.

Section 3: Three Dimensional and Fibre Works The Gladstone Ports Corporation Award ($2,000): Beryl Beale, 'Road to Simple Pleasures'.

The Swift Award ($1,000): Rowena Hausheer, 'Pumpkin Lace' The Queensland Energy Resources (QER) Award ($500): Helen Aitken-Kuhnen, 'Wave Bracelet Print Set'.

Highly Commended: Jude Kennedy, 'Infused Within the Earth'.

Section 4: Digital Works The McDonald's Gladstone Region Award ($2,000): Lynn Clifford, 'City 2015'.

The CQUniversity Award ($1,000): David M. Thomas, 'The Human Experience'.

The Creative Gladstone Region Inc. and Crow Street Creative Award ($500): Andrew D K Forsyth, 'Lazy8 - Perfect but Unreal - Twerking It'.

Highly Commended: Kevin Erickson, 'The Gladstone Region: A Time Lapse'.

Turf project grows from seeds of discussion

Parks staff Sean Busby, Ben Reynolds, Jye Dalton, Ian Lothian, Deon Stringer and Gary Montagner at Port Curtis Lawn Cemetery.

Eager Council trainees gained valuable on-the-job training experience when laying turf at the Port Curtis Lawn Cemetery recently.

Parks and Environment officers Senior Coordinator Parks and Conservation Barry Meiring and Horticulture Supervisor Ian Black spoke about the project after Ian's irrigation team had installed the irrigation system.

When discussing the turf laying stage of the project, Barry and Ian soon concluded that, instead of going to contractors, the pair's own teams could complete the task.

This allowed for the transferring of skills between the two teams while also enabling them to gain hands-on experience in preparing a land area and laying it with turf to create the high-end amenity lawn finish required at the cemetery.

It also enabled the trainees to complete the practical part of some

of their units in turf management, which forms part of their certificate qualifications.

The trainees were asked to research the topic and present a project brief including a budget and timeline with one of the trainees, Jye Dalton from the Conservation and Land Management team, recommending a specific type of couch grass (Nullarbor Couch Oz Tuff) that had not been used widely within the Gladstone Region.

Upon further investigation, the grass ticked the right boxes and was ordered in from a local supplier.

The grass shows a lot of potential for further Council use as it boasts a slower growth rate and less seed head formation to other grasses.

The progress of the grass at the cemetery will now be monitored to ascertain if its use can reduce Council's mowing maintenance requirements.

Council reassesses venue hire costs Council has made its venues more accessible to community groups and businesses through the week by reassessing the hire fees for their large function rooms.

The reassessment affects function rooms at Calliope, Boyne Island, Miriam Vale and Agnes Water and came as a response to the need for community groups to be able to access the facilities at an affordable rate during the day and in the evenings on weekdays.

Council has introduced a weekday rate that applies to bookings between 7am Monday and 7pm Friday.

Previously, the venues were offered at

half price during the day and reverted to their standard price at night and on weekends.

The cost per hour or part thereof during the week is now $10 per hour for community organisations and $25 per hour for private and commercial groups, including government departments, provided the hirer does not use air conditioning, kitchen, bar or equipment.

All other hire fees and charges will remain as they are currently. For a full list of venues and the fees and charges visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au or phone on 4970 0700.

Page 9

Auditors appraise conference a great success

Young Street bridges work set to start Repair work on the North Coast Railway and Barney Point Coal Facility bridges on Gladstone's Young Street are expected to get under way in early November.

Gladstone Regional Council CEO Stuart Randle shares his insights with attendees of the Local Government Internal Audit Conference.

Gladstone Regional Council hosted internal auditors and other local government representatives from across Queensland and New South Wales at the 13th Annual Local Government Internal Audit Conference in late October.

Over 35 delegates attended the conference at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre to exchange industry ideas, knowledge and best practice.

A local council's internal auditing function is a systematic evaluation of its risk management, control and governance processes and contributes significantly toward a well-functioning council.

Council organised this year's conference which aimed to support local councils to further improve their internal auditing performance.

High profile speakers included Institute of Internal Auditors Australia CEO Peter Jones and Assurance Advisory Group Director Stephen Coates.

Council CEO Stuart Randle's insights into Gladstone Regional Council's cultural journey, since its amalgamation in 2008, were also well-received by the audience.

Attendees said the conference was a great success with audit professionals coming together to share their experiences, learn from one another and grow their support networks.

Delegates also commented that the attendance of some of Council's senior people as delegates and speakers demonstrated high-level support for its internal auditing function.

VEC Civil Engineering Pty Ltd was awarded the tender in October to complete more than $540,000 worth of repair works to the two structures which were identified as being in poor condition when inspected in August 2013.

Both bridges were identified as having suffered extensive wearing, requiring surface repairs and concrete patching in order to improve their structural integrity.

Council Engineering officers were to meet with VEC Civil Engineering representatives in early November with work to begin shortly after.

Weather permitting, repair work on both bridges is expected to be finished

by April, 2016.

Council received $350,000 in State Government Roads 2 Recovery funding for the Barney Point Coal Facility Bridge repairs.

Are you contaminating the region's recycling?

Gladstone Region residents are being urged to clean up their recycling act.

Lawn and garden cuttings may be clean and green but they are the most common reason that whole truckloads of recyclables from the Gladstone Region end up in landfill.

Plastic bags are the second most common contaminant, but putting paint and waste oil tins in your recycle bin could backfire on you and your neighbours, and could cause injury to the truck driver.

Tins often explode when compacted and cause large amounts of liquid waste to spray out of the collection vehicle. This can stain driveways, houses and cars or destroy gardens and lawns.

Oil can also cause dangerous spills on roadways and may flow into drains, contaminating waterways and the ocean.

Contractor JJ Richards reports show that almost twice every month, trucks have to return to the depot due to jamming of the compaction mechanism caused by metal items in recycle bins.

Building materials, car parts, timber and other metal objects can affect the mechanism.

A motorcycle has even been spotted in a recycle bin - and, of course, was not collected.

A jam causes major disruption.

Drivers can lose several hours and may be put at risk of injury. The delay also causes major disruption to the collection schedule.

Do the right thing!

Green waste is not to be placed in wheelie bins; instead: • Make compost for your garden. Even if you don't have a compost bin, piling garden clippings in a corner of your garden will enable it to break down and result in a great fertiliser for your garden. • Dispose of it for free by delivering it to Council rubbish dumps. Clean garden waste is recycled as mulch, so your cuttings will be reused on gardens throughout the region.

Clean up your act From January to March this year, 328 recycling bins were recorded as contaminated. The areas with the highest level of contamination were New Auckland and Agnes Water.

Residents in all suburbs are urged to check which items can be disposed of in the yellow recycle bin by visiting www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/recycling or calling Council on 4970 0700.

Page 10

Attending the workshop are (L to R) Jodi Jones (CVA), Jennifer Harris, Jye Dalton (GRC), Ross Hardie (Alluvium), Kelly Smith (FBA) and Jacinta Larney (GRC).

Staff studying the science behind our local waterways Council staff attended a workshop in Rockhampton recently to gain a more scientific understanding of urban waterway management.

Engineer Jacinta Larney, Conservation Officer Jennifer Harris and Conservation and Land Management Trainee Jye Dalton joined 14 other participants at the Fitzroy Basin Association two day workshop.

The science of understanding waterways is called Fluvial Geomorphology.

It sounds complex and 'out of this world' but has a lot of relevance for understanding waterways and how they work.

The workshop was designed to enhance participants' skills around water sensitive urban design and introduce them to techniques for assessing the health of local creek systems.

Work will begin in January on a $4.5million redevelopment of Miriam Vale's Alf Larson/ Lions Park.

Both human development and weather events impact on waterways, deepening beds and widening banks.

These changes can affect both private and public infrastructure.

Mr Birch said the workshop participants examined some urban creek systems which were stable and contributing to the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

"Effective waterway management is key to reducing the amount of sediment reaching the Reef," he said.

The FBA is keen to work with Central Queensland Councils, with funding available for projects until June 2018.

The open space, right in the middle of town, is a popular recreation area with local residents and visitors pulling in off the Bruce Highway.

The three-stage redevelopment will impact traffic and businesses in Station Street, but Council will keep the community regularly informed about all aspects of the project to minimise disruption and inconvenience.

Once completed, it will

provide a larger venue for community events and family gatherings, while allowing travellers to rest and enjoy the facilities in safety.

Heritage elements, such as the large Fig tree and War Memorial, have been incorporated into the design which will also provide better access to the railway station.

Parking areas will be expanded to include dedicated caravan and large vehicle parking for the growing drive tourism market.

Work is due to be completed this financial year.

 TAngler bins for fishing waste The specially designed TAngler bins located at boat ramps and key fishing spots throughout Gladstone are only to be used for fishing waste like old line and tackle. All other rubbish should be disposed of in general waste bins.

 Email newsletter

FBA Chief Executive Officer Paul Birch said the training would support better decision making for restoration activities.

Alf Larson/Lions Park redevelopment to commence in January

BRIEFLY

In addition to this newsletter, Council also produces a fortnightly email newsletter called eConnect. Residents are invited to register to receive it for free by email. Subscription is easy and can be done by visiting www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/econnect

 List an event for free Does your not-for-profit or community organisation have an upcoming event? You can list your event with Council's community calendar by following the calendar link on the home page of the website and following the prompts.

Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au.au/ whats-on

Groups invited to host children's activities at botanic gardens Expressions of interest are being sought from local groups to host a range of fun and unique activities for children during the upcoming 2016 school holidays.

Artists, not-for-profit, and other community groups are welcome to apply to host activities at any time during the April, June/July, and September/October school holidays.

Activities should be themed around or incorporate Tondoon Botanic Gardens, conservation or our local ecosystems, and should cater to a variety of ages.

Successful organisations

can also apply to receive a financial contribution to help fund the resources needed to conduct their activities.

Applications will close on January 15 and can be found at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ tondoon-botanic For more information contact the Visitor Services Officer Alexis Smith on 4971 4439 or at tondoon@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au

Page 11

APT8 Kids to visit during regional tour The Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is taking key activities from 'APT8 Kids' on the road and is on course for a family fun day at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum these school holidays.

Marina Bridge to close for repairs in December Gladstone's Matthew Flinders (Marina) Bridge will be closed to traffic from early December to early January to enable the replacement of its main pivot bearing.

Repairs to the pedestrian walkway surfaces will also be carried out during this time.

The bascule bridge spanning Auckland Creek will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic and tall marine vessels unable to pass under the closed bridge.

Motorists will be required to use Alf O'Rourke Drive as an alternative route to access the Marina Parklands during this time.

The bearing replacement is expected to be completed early in the new year and the remaining related works, including repaired pedestrian walkways, is expected to be completed late December, with commissioning forecast to extend into the early new year. On completion of the commissioning phase the bridge will re-open to all traffic, including tall marine vessels.

Council apologises for any inconvenience these works may cause and will continue to inform the community of the project's progress.

As an integral part of ‘The 8th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art’ (APT8),QAGOMA has hosted a dynamic program of interactive and hands-on activities for children since 1999, designed to connect young visitors with the art practice of some of the region’s leading contemporary artists.

APT8 Kids on Tour features making and drawing activities developed in conjunction with artists from six countries, including India, Vietnam and New Zealand, and will feature at the Gallery & Museum on January 23, from 10am to 1pm.

For more information about APT8 Kids on Tour, visit www.qagoma.qld. gov.au

For more information phone Council on 4970 0700.

Boosting bucks for breast health Children’s workshop for Rosanna Raymond, Play with Your Birds, 2015. Photograph: Brodie Standen

Australian citizenship numbers grow

Live: Council staff spell out the aim of their fundraising efforts for breast cancer research.

Residents may have noticed Council staff wearing bright pink shirts around our streets and parks in October.

The shirts were proudly donned by staff who paid to switch to a pink uniform during Breast Cancer Awareness month, raising $842 for breast cancer research.

Staff purchased their own shirts and a portion of each sale contributed to the fundraising tally. Funds were further boosted through donations from colleagues, bake sales and other creative

means such as 'fines' each time a pink shirt was worn.

The initiative was led by Council employees Tracey Tame and Alison Jones.

Tracey received a "wake-up call" when a suspicious lump had to be removed from her breast.

"It highlighted to me how important it is for women to have regular breast checks and how vital research into treatment and a cure for breast cancer is," she said.

The number of new Australian citizens across the Gladstone Region continues to grow.

By the end of November the Gladstone Region will have welcomed 270 new Australian citizens this year.

The annual figure, at present, is slightly less than in 2014 when 280 residents participated in citizenship ceremonies in Gladstone.

More information on the process of applying for Australian citizenship and details about public citizenship ceremonies conducted by Council is available at www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/citizenship Page 12

Performing civic duties in more ways than one

Primary school students invited to 'celebrate Australia' via art comp As part of the Gladstone Region's Australia Day 2016 celebrations, Council is calling for entries in the Celebrate Australia Primary School Art Competition.

To enter, students in two categories (Prep to Year 2 and Years 3 to 6) are invited to draw, paint or collage an aspect of Australia they believe is iconic on a sheet of A4 paper.

Clint Swanton (centre) accepted on behalf of Council an Employer Support Award from State Chair of the Defence Reserves Support Council Margaret Goody (left). Ed Dahlheimer (right) nominated Council for the award.

As a full-time Council Senior Engineering Officer and a parttime Australian Infantry Officer, Ed Dahlheimer appreciates Major Ed Dahlheimer. Council's support Photo digitally modified. of his Australian Defence Force Reserves commitments.

In fact, he's so appreciative he nominated Gladstone Regional Council for an Employer Support Award through the Defence Reserves Support Council.

Council subsequently took out the Central Queensland Public Sector category and Ed's supervisor Clint Swanton accepted the award.

When he's not assisting to deliver the region's water services, Ed is in charge of all infantry soldiers in Central Queensland, including Gladstone, Rockhampton, Biloela, Emerald and Longreach.

This is no minor task and Council has backed Ed's leadership of significant community services, including the Defence Force's recent emergency response to disaster Cyclone Marcia.

"I was asked to be second-in-charge of the Defence Force's initial taskforce to respond to Cyclone Marcia, which obviously had to be confirmed on very short notice. Clint and the Council were very supportive of that," he said.

Ed said he nominated Council for the awards because it "has a very robust policy around support for Australian Defence Force Reserves duties" including special leave entitlements.

The winners will be announced during Council's 2016 Australia Day Family Fun Day at Gladstone Marina Parklands on Tuesday, January 26, where there will also be a digital display of the works featured throughout the day.

Additionally, six prize-winning artworks will be reproduced as Council's commemorative 2016 Australia Day postcards and given away on the day.

Entry forms are available from Council's libraries, venues, offices and Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum's website.

He joined the Australian Defence Force in 1988 and said the challenges he had faced, particularly as a commander, had given him valuable lessons in leadership and management that he could apply to his Council duties.

A limit of one entry per student will be accepted and should be submitted by 4pm, Friday, December 18 to the Gallery & Museum, corner of Goondoon and Bramston Streets, Gladstone.

The major's Defence duties also reinforce his commitment to the Gladstone community, an aspect he finds particularly rewarding.

All entries will be displayed at the Tondoon Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre during January; CQUniversity's Gladstone Marina Campus during February and the Gallery & Museum during March.

Free loan of traps for pesky Indian Myna birds Gladstone Regional Council is offering the free loan of traps to residents who are having issues with one of Australia’s most invasive pests, the Indian Myna bird.

23-25cm long; black hooded head; yellow patch behind the eye; bright yellow legs and bill; a white patch on the outer primaries; and white colour under the wing lining.

Council has conducted surveys of the species in Gladstone and discovered that its distribution is concentrated in Gladstone's CBD, with other populations being noted in the surrounding suburbs of Barney Point, South Gladstone and Clinton.

They are similar in appearance to the Noisy Miner, a native honeyeater species, which is predominantly grey in colour, is non-invasive and is not regarded as a pest.

Originating from Asia, the species is usually seen in pairs, with the adult being readily identified by a brown body of approximately

Fantastic prizes are on offer, including a family pass to one of the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre's 2016 shows.

For information or traps please phone Council on 4970 0700 or download a fact sheet from www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/factsheets

Digitised exhibitions of entries will also be displayed at selected Council venues from January to April.

Naiomi Soutar during Council's Australia Day 2015 celebrations at the Millennium Esplanade, Tannum Sands.

Page 13

Updates from AROUND THE REGION

GLADSTONE: Council has appointed Rabco Plant Hire Pty Ltd to manage its waste transfer facilities, including recycling activities, for the next five years. The contract, worth almost $1.5 million, consists of an initial five-year term with two two-year extensions at Council's sole discretion. Eight applicants had provided submissions for the tender.

REGION: Residents are invited to nominate local young achievers for the inaugural 2016 Queensland Young Achiever Awards. Residents aged up to 29 are eligible for the awards. Nominations are open until Friday, January 29 with awards offered in eight categories. Further information on the awards is available by emailing qldyaa@awardsaustralia.com, phoning the awards office on 1300 735 445, or visiting www.awardsaustralia.com AGNES WATER: Council's free mulch service has recommenced at the Agnes Water Transfer Station. Recycled garden waste has been unavailable at the site since stock was depleted mid-year but the creation of more stock via a grinding machine means the service is now again available to the public. It follows shortly after the service's reintroduction to Council's Benaraby Landfill facility.

TAUNTON: Council has hosted a Giant Rat's Tail Grass and Class 2 Weed Field Day at 620 Tablelands Road, Taunton, south of the Fingerboard Roadhouse.

Presenters included John Reeve from Biosecurity Queensland, Council's Pest Management Supervisor Brett Cawthray, Eric Dyke from Bundaberg Regional Council and Ross Newman from GP Products. Among the topics was a discussion about a weed subsidy and hire equipment for Gladstone Region ratepayers.

REGION: Council is now processing nominations for the 2016 Australia Day Awards Ceremony scheduled for the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre on January 25. Nominations have been accepted in eight categories.

Everyone is welcome to attend the awards ceremony on the eve of Australia Day, from 6.15pm. Entry is free.

GLADSTONE: People in need from throughout the world are set to benefit from Council's participation in a wheelchair creation project. Council has agreed to supply disposed bicycle frames from its waste transfer stations throughout the Gladstone Region to Rotary Gladstone Sunrise so they can be converted into wheelchairs to be distributed to people in need across 31 countries.

provide an update on what it was doing in regards to Air Quality Network monitoring and the results being collected. EHP also told Council it was considering adding further air quality monitors to the network.

BOYNE ISLAND: A mammoth half a tonne of rubbish was collected in the Lilley's Beach area by a willing band of 50-plus volunteers during the first ever Reef Clean Up Day. The Conservation Volunteers Australia initiative bagged an impressive haul, including a car exhaust, two shopping trolleys, a mattress, metal chairs, treated timber, corrugated iron and hundreds of pieces of broken glass.

REGION: Residents have contributed to this year's record-breaking national Garage Sale Trail with more than 8,235 garage sales registered Australia-wide.

The Garage Sale Trail, held on Saturday, October 24, involved 73 registered sellers across the Gladstone Region with garage sales, car boot sales, book sales and community yard sales attracting hundreds of interested buyers in search of a bargain.

This is the second year that Council has supported the initiative.

GLADSTONE: The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection has advised Council it will actively monitor and regulate LNG flaring activity on Curtis Island. Representatives from the EHP obliged a request by Council to meet and

Infographic

Where the money was spent Community Donations and Funding Program 2014-15 This funding program assists community groups and organisations to operate and provide events, activities or services to residents so the Gladstone Region remains an attractive place to live.

More information about the program can be found at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/donations-and-grants

Rates donations

$212,615 Heritage and museums

In-kind community services support

$204,554

$19,000

Educational awards and bursaries

Education and guidance

$8200

$53,039

Community and public halls

Performing arts donations

$31,500

$3860

Community-run Australia Day activities

Recreational event support

$4435 Regulatory fee waivers

$23,233

$1200 Major regional events

$172,907

Source: Gladstone Regional Council Annual Report 2014-15. Available from December at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/annual-reports

Community CALENDAR

Extra funds enhance arts and culture

NOVEMBER Date

Name of the event

Location

Contact

1 - 30

2015 Rio Tinto Martin Hanson Memorial Art awards & Exhibition

GRAGM

4976 6766

2 - 27

Judging - most popular photo Discovery Coast Photo comp - Four Elements - Earth Wind Water Fire

Agnes Water Rural Transaction Centre

4902 1515

DECEMBER Date

Name of the event

Location

Contact

1 & 15

General Council Meeting

Civic Centre Boardroom

4970 0700

1

Morning Melodies

Entertainment Centre

4972 2822

2

10-11am Facebook for Everyone

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

2

3.30pm Christmas Extravaganza

Boyne Tannum Community Centre

3

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

3

10-12noon A Bush Christmas - film

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

4

Mayor's Carols by Candlelight

Gladstone Marina

5

11-12am Author talk Caroline de Costa Boyne Island Library talks about her new murder mystery series set in Cairns

5

2-3pm Author talk Caroline de Costa talks about her new murder mystery series set in Cairns

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

5

Summer Reading Club launch

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

6

Christmas Celebration

Agnes Water Library

4902 1501

15 - 17

Christmas Craft

Various Libraries

4976 6400

17 & 24

Games

Various Libraries

4976 6400

17 Dec 6 Feb

Treasured Toys

Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766

17 Dec 27 Feb

Marks of Fire: A look, through the brand, at life on the land, Qld 1870 to now

Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766

17 Dec 5 Mar

Freedom of the Press

Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766

23 & 24

11am Christmas Stories

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

23

10am Christmas Cards

Agnes Water Library

4971 9700

4970 0700 4971 9700

4902 1501

JANUARY Date

Name of the event

Location

Contact

5, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18 & 21

Ancient & Lost Worlds Craft

Various Libraries

4976 6400

11, 20

9.30am Underwater World Craft

Gladstone City & Calliope libraries

4976 6400 4975 8105

13,14 & 20

Messy Craft

Agnes Water Library Boyne Island Library

4902 1501 4971 9700

18

9.30am Summer Reading Club Party

Gladstone City Library 4976 6400

23

10am-1pm APT8 Kids on Tour - Family Fun Day (free)

Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766

6, 7 & 20 Jan

Games

Various Libraries

4976 6400

Local artist Kim Scrimshaw attended the Peta Lloyd workshop during Wrapt in Rockhampton 2015, supported by the RADF. (Image: P.Lloyd)

The development and enhancement of arts and culture across the region will receive an additional $25,000 funding injection following Council's acceptance of an Arts Queensland funding offer.

The Gladstone Region Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) funding pool for 2015-16 will increase to $95,000.

Council enters into partnership agreements with Arts Queensland for RADF funds each year and contributes to the fund by matching State Government contributions.

Council will increase its budgeted RADF investment for 2015-16, contributing $15,000 to secure the additional $10,000 funding offer from Arts Queensland.

For further RADF information contact RADF Liaison Officer Di Paddick at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum on phone 4976 6766 or visit http://gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld. gov.au

Author visit Come and meet Queensland's newest murder mystery author Caroline de Costa at Boyne Island and Gladstone City Libraries on Saturday, December 5.

Professor de Costa, who is also a professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at James Cook University College of Medicine, will talk about her latest mystery, Double Madness between 11am and noon at Boyne Island Library and 2pm and 3pm at Gladstone City Library. The book will also be available for purchase and signing at each venue.

Page 15

Sunday, 6 December

GECC Christmas Street Party

3.00PM till 8.00PM join us on Goondoon Street for Christmas Street Markets, Live Music, Children’s entertainment and the official lighting of Gladstone’s new Christmas Tree!

Whats On at your Library?

The 14th Annual Christmas Tree Decorating Extravaganza.

Songs, Santa and Afternoon Tea! Wednesday, December 2, 2015 Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 Summer Reading Club Santa Claus Write a letter torso ly!

Lost Worlds and receive a pe nal repres s. Santa and add Don’t forget to include your name ember to the 19th Dec 1st letters to be collected from letter in the December. Be sure to post your est library. mailboxes on display at your clos

December 12 till January 15

Artist Windows - Pop Up Public Art Celebrating the International Year of Light Installations showcased early December to late January 2016

To celebrate the ‘2015 International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies’, local artists have collaborated to create a series of artist windows, displayed in Gladstone Regional Council venues across the region, for everyone to enjoy.

The project is supported by the Gladstone Region Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a Queensland Government and Gladstone Regional Council partnership to support local arts and culture.

The Gallery & Museum is a community cultural initiative of the Gladstone Regional Council.

“Artist windows have a long tradition within the cultural community. From Salvador Dali in 1939 and Sidney Nolan’s early years with Abbotsford’s Fayrefield Hats, through to more recent times where Japanese artist Takashi Murakami has created artist windows for Louis Vuitton.” - Jo Duke, Curator,

Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum

GLADSTONE REGIONAL ART GALLERY & MUSEUM Open 10am - 5pm, Mon - Sat, Closed 25 Dec - 3 Jan | gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Cnr Goondoon & Bramston Sts, Gladstone | (07) 4976 6766 | gragm@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au