Council connection october november 2014

COUNCIL

CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 ISSUE 62

INSIDE Council goes hi-tech

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4 Be prepared It's cyclone season

7 Animal desexing service on offer

10 Get into Sort 'n' Save

MAYOR'S MESSAGE Program aims to 'sort' out Gladstone Region's waste disposal debate

Cover

Brock Tame has fun on the new Smart Playground at Barney Point Park.

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Council Connection

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

Delivery

Council Connection is delivered directly into all residential letterboxes

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

For many years community debate has raged over Gladstone Regional Council offering a free kerbside collection day, free tip day or free waste tokens to its residents.

Just recently this matter was tabled for Council discussion and the merits of each respective suggestion discussed at length.

Council supports initiatives aimed at reducing litter and incidences of illegal dumping, however, it is apparent that all of these so-called 'free' options would, in effect, cost Council and subsequently ratepayers, a considerable amount of money.

Therefore, the word 'free' is rather token in meaning.

While all of these suggestions do have environmental merit, they also have many problematic factors such as the eyesore and health and safety concerns of dumped

items being left on footpaths for collection; vehicles lined up at waste management facilities; and 'free' vouchers which, in reality, cost ratepayers through the passing down of additional levies at rates time.

The recycling opportunity is also lost and I, for one, like to consider we are a modern, dynamic and environmentally sustainable region which recycles a majority of waste items.

Yes, other Councils do employ these methods, but it does come at a hidden cost to the ratepayer and the environment.

Instead, we should heighten community awareness of the many environmental and cost-friendly opportunities available through Council's Sort 'n' Save Program (see page 10).

The cost of correctly disposing of rubbish at one of Council's waste management facilities is minimal compared to the possible costs and trouble associated with being found guilty of illegally dumping your rubbish where it does not belong.

Cost

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

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Environmental Impacts

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

Council Contacts

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

Gladstone Office 101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Qld 4680

Calliope Office

5 Don Cameron Drive, Calliope Qld 4680

Miriam Vale Office 36 Roe Street, Miriam Vale Qld 4677

Contents

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7 Animal registration notices out soon Animal registration notices will soon arrive in pet owners' mail boxes and those who make full payments before October 31 can save 20 per cent on fees.

11 Dispose of building waste free of charge Building materials are wrongly being disposed of in domestic waste and recycling bins across the region.

13 Celebrate Australia Day in your community Regional communities have the opportunity to celebrate Australia Day in their own townships thanks to Gladstone Regional Council donations.

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Nathan Porter from Council's mowing crew operates the new remote-controlled Robocut mower.

New mowing machinery goes hi-tech Council's mowing services is 'cutting' at a whole new level when it comes to the world of technology, following the introduction of a remote-controlled mower to its fleet of equipment.

on sloping terrain less accessible by Council's mowing crews, thereby reducing workplace health and safety risks.

with joystick to operate the Robocut which can cut regrowth as little as 25mm or plough through overgrown, long grass.

The latest in technology, the Robocut, has become a valuable asset to Council's Parks Maintenance division since its introduction in June.

The state-of-the-art machine can be operated by remote control up to 50 metres away and features an array of attachments to do various jobs like stump grinding and trench digging.

The Robocut has the ability to operate

An operator uses a hand-held console

The Robocut works on tracks like a bulldozer fitted with spikes for extra grip.

It can safely operate on sloping terrain, steep inclines and embankments with up to a 70 degree vertical gradient.

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

The visits are conducted on the last Thursday of each month and involve Councillors visiting individually or in pairs for morning tea between 9.30am and 10.15am, followed by individual meetings of 20 minutes in duration between 10.15am and noon with residents who have pre-booked.

All residents are welcome to attend

the morning teas and appointment bookings can be made by phoning Council's Communication and Marketing Section on 4970 0700.

Councillor Information Booths Councillors will also host a Councillor Information Booth at Boyne Plaza on October 30 and Calliope Drakes Supa IGA on November 27, each between 9.30am and noon. The booths enable residents to chat with their elected representatives and collect Council information while shopping. The Stockland Gladstone (Kin Kora) Councillor Information Booth operates the third Saturday of each month as well.

Thursday, October 30 Morning tea - 9.30am - 10.15am. Pre-booked 20 min appointments with Councillors 10.15am - noon.

Ubobo

Ubobo QCWA Hall

Miriam Vale

Miriam Vale QCWA Hall

Agnes Water

Agnes Water/1770 SES Building

Thursday, November 27 Morning tea - 9.30am - 10.15am. Pre-booked 20 min appointments with Councillors 10.15am - noon.

Lowmead

Lowmead Hall

Mount Larcom

Mount Larcom QCWA Hall

Builyan

Builyan Hall

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Councillor Information Booths

Saturday, October 18, 9.00am-noon: Stockland Gladstone Thursday, October 30, 9.30am-noon: Boyne Plaza Saturday, November 15, 9am-noon: Stockland Gladstone Thursday, November 27, 9.30am-noon: Calliope Drakes Supa IGA

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

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Krish Thalluri, 2, and Shilpa Sureshbabu, 3, try out the new Smar t Playground at Barney Point.

Gladstone's newest playground leads the way in 'smart' play Council is leading the charge in providing new play opportunities for its younger residents and now boasts an Australian first with the opening of a Smart Playground.

The playground was opened recently as part of the $1.6 million Barney Point Foreshore redevelopment project.

It is set to revolutionise the way children

play and learn, combining outdoor play with modern technology.

Designed by Kompan, the playground design is based on the popular Hans Christian Andersen fairy tales of The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling.

It is the world's first playground with its very own app, Play Gate, downloadable

for free to smartphones or tablets.

To download the Play Gate app, users scan the QR code on the playground structure.

From here users can read or play along to the fairy tales, in 16 different languages, or play the Tale Run and Pic-2-Word games either in the park, or at home.

Reminder to be prepared for natural disasters Get registered for free early warning alerts You can never be too prepared when it comes to natural disasters.

Residents are encouraged to get ready now and be prepared in the event of disasters such as damaging storms, bushfires and floods.

Free emergency updates are provided to registered residents either via SMS, automated telephone message or email through the Gladstone Region Early Warning Network Alert Service (EWN).

The alerts distributed are location specific.

is available via Council's website by following the Emergency & Disasters link from the home page at www.gladstone. qld.gov.au This page also contains a wealth of information including the Gladstone Emergency Action Guide, online mapping system, brochures and road condition reports.

Residents who have not yet signed up to the EWN service are encouraged to register online at www.gladstone.qld.gov.

au/early-warning-registration-form in the lead up to the summer months.

Alternatively, contact Council on 4970 0700 to obtain a registration form or register via telephone.

This service is managed 24 hours a day and tracks and monitors potentially dangerous weather systems; alerting people in areas that are likely to be affected by an event.

Council introduced the free early warning weather system last year.

It is one of several Council initiatives designed to improve community safety through the provision of advanced warning of adverse weather or potential threats, such as cyclones, bushfires, flash flooding, hail and damaging storms.

The Early Warning Network Service

If it’s flooded, forget it!

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

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Tell us what you think!

Council plans upgraded, mobile-friendly website

Council has plans for a new website that is mobile-friendly, disability compliant and user-friendly. To help us, we are calling on residents to take part in the following survey so that your ideas and opinions can be considered as part of the web redevelopment process.

If you prefer to complete this online, please visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/grcwebsitesurvey

If you complete the following survey, please be aware that any information you provide will be collected, stored and retrieved by Council staff only, and your details and any personal information you provide will not be given or sold to third parties. We respect your privacy and promise that personal information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

1. How easy is it to navigate Gladstone Regional Council's current website?

7. How easy is it to download files from our website?

13. What would you like to see included in a new website?

 Extremely easy  Very easy  Moderately easy  Slightly easy  Not at all easy  I didn't know Council had a website

 Extremely easy  Very easy  Moderately easy  Slightly easy  Not at all easy  I haven’t attempted to download from the website

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8. How much do you trust the security of our website's online checkout process?

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2. How easy is it for you to find the information you are looking for on our website?  Extremely easy  Very easy  Moderately easy  Slightly easy  Not at all easy  Unsure. I have not used the website 3. How clear is the information available on our website?  Extremely clear  Quite clear  Moderately clear  Slightly clear  Not at all clear  Unsure as I haven't used the website 4. How visually appealing is our website?  Extremely easy  Quite easy  Moderately easy  Slightly easy  Not at all easy  Unsure, I have not used the website 5. How professional is the look and feel of our website?  Extremely professional  Quite professional  Moderately professional  Slightly professional  Not at all professional  Other (please specify) .................................................................

6. How up-to-date is the content on our website?

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 Extremely up-to-date  Very up-to-date  Moderately up-to-date  Slightly up-to-date  Not at all up-to-date

 A great deal of trust  A lot of trust  A moderate amount of trust  A little trust  No trust at all  Unsure 9. How likely is it that you would recommend our website to a friend or colleague? (scale line)  Scale 0 -10  Not all likely 0  Extremely likely 10 10. Overall, are you satisfied with our website, neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with it, or dissatisfied with it?

14. What would you like to see removed or changed from the existing website if Council was to develop a new website?

15. If Council was to use another website as a model for its own, which website would you suggest? ................................................................. ................................................................. .................................................................

16. What cool functions should Gladstone Regional Council include in a new website? ................................................................. ................................................................. .................................................................

17. In which township or community do you live?

 Extremely satisfied  Quite satisfied  Somewhat satisfied  Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied  Somewhat dissatisfied  Quite dissatisfied  Extremely dissatisfied

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11. If you are a regular user of our website, please explain why you use it and the pages you are most likely to visit.

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12. What information do you think is the most difficult to find on our current website? ................................................................. ................................................................. .................................................................

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

18. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns about Council's website, please share them here.

When completed, please either: • Scan in your responses and email them to communications@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au or • Send by mail to Communications Section, Gladstone Regional Council, PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680 or • Drop it into your nearest Council administration centre.

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BRIEFLY

Council developments win top building awards

 Magpie season

 SUNfest

Council is urging the community to be cautious and patient during magpie season. Any complaints over swooping magpies on Council controlled land can be directed to Council's Parks and Environment Division. For further information visit Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/fact-sheets

Youths can look forward to another summer school holidays of fun with Council's annual youth holiday program scheduled from January 5 to 16. The SUNfest 2015 program will be distributed to Gladstone Region schools on November 14. Copies will be available from Council offices and website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ sunfest

 Australia Day Nominations Nominations for the 2015 Australia Day Awards are open and Council encourages residents to nominate a local hero. Entry is open to residents of all ages and nominees must reside in the Gladstone Region. Download or fill out an online nomination form at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/australiaday-awards or obtain one from a Council office. Any hard copy forms should be sent to Gladstone Regional Council, PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680 before close of business on Friday, November 7.

 School holiday activities Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens is available for individuals, groups and organisations to host eco-friendly school holiday activities for children in 2015. Sponsorship up to a maximum of $200 is available to tutors/organisers for the purchase of art and craft resources for the activities. Conditions apply. Information is available from Council's website at www.gladstone. qld.gov.au/tondoon-botanic or by phoning 4971 4443 during business hours.

It was all about the Gladstone Region at the Central Queensland Master Builders annual awards ceremony, with Council developments taking out the Sporting & Community Service Facilities categories.

Gladstone Aquatic Centre's Splash Zone received top honours in the Sporting & Community Service Facilities up to $5 million category.

Beau Corp Aquatics & Construction was contracted

by Council to complete the $2.5 million water play park development and staff were on hand at the awards ceremony to receive the accolade.

Their brief for the construction was to build a water play park for children under 12 that was not only fun, but educational, interactive and state-of-the-art.

The Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre also received top spot in the Sporting & Community Service Facilities over $20 million category.

The region's premier entertainment and conference facility and expansion of the adjoining multi-level car park and office space was redeveloped by ADCO Constructions Pty Ltd.

Councillor Update Cr Col Chapman

Cr Rick Hansen

Phone: 0448 883 961 Email: ColinC@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Portfolio: Environment

Phone: 0448 885 047 Email: RickHansen@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Portfolio: Engineering Services

Sustainability is one of the most overused words in government that it tends to lose its meaning and impact. It can refer to business, resources, communities, cultures and the environment. Often it used to describe these in periods of 10 or 20 years. If an activity is said to be sustainable, then it should last forever. Sustainability is the capacity of cities and towns to meet the needs of current generations without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.

As a society, we use vast amounts of water and energy as well as creating volumes of waste. How can we expect the earth to keep giving of her bounty if all we do is take? Each one of us needs to take responsibility for our own patch and conserve water, decrease our energy usage and reduce the amount of waste. It not only make good sense but it also saves money.

We are living on this planet as if we had another one to go to.

- Terri Swearingen Perhaps you have an idea that you might like to share with us that could make a difference to our community. Email it to colinc@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au.

Council has been working at planning for future infrastructure network requirements in the next 10 years and beyond, as projected population increases become a reality. Planning of this type is vital in identifying the future timing of upgrades as they will be required and undertaken, and as the existing networks are identified as reaching capacity. Council, through the assistance of consultants, has developed a Priority Infrastructure Plan (PIP). Council's 2013/2017 Corporate Plan aims to ensure that infrastructure planning and delivery enjoys an integrated approach, with community infrastructure that supports the lifestyle of our community and offers equity across the region. The Sustainable Planning Act (SPA) 2009 requires a new Planning Scheme to be developed, incorporating a PIP. This is in accordance with the Department of Local Government and Planning Statutory Guideline. A PIP is the part of a planning scheme which outlines the local government's plans for the provision of trunk infrastructure to service urban development in a coordinated, efficient and orderly way. A PIP details what trunk infrastructure is required, where it is required and when it will be needed. Trunk infrastructure is 'higher order' network development infrastructure. The networks include water supply, sewerage, stormwater, roads/transport and parks.

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

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

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LOCAL LAWS Pet registration notices to be sent out soon Animal registration notices will soon arrive in pet owners' mail boxes and those who make full payments before October 31 can save 20 per cent on fees.

There are many reasons for having your pet registered, with a registration tag enabling animals to be easily identified and distinguished from the stray population and able to be reunited with their owners as quickly as possible.

Council also offers discounted fees for desexed and microchipped animals to promote responsible pet ownership.

Mobile surgery delivers cheap desexing service for cats and dogs Low income earners benefit from program Lower income pet owners will benefit from a discounted pet desexing program when the Portable Animal Welfare Service (PAWS) visits Gladstone in November.

PAWS is a mobile, fully functional surgery designed specifically for neutering cats and kittens and small and medium sized dogs.

The low-cost service enables welfare recipients, who may otherwise be restricted by their financial situation, to have their pet desexed and help tackle the problem of pet overpopulation within the Gladstone Region.

The PAWS mobile surgery will be located at Council's Lyons Street Depot in Gladstone, from November 3-7, and costs just $50 per animal desexed.

Owners will need to register their pets for the service with Council by October 17 and be able to drop their animals at the PAWS van at their approved date and time.

Owners will be contacted when their pet is ready for collection but will not be

able to wait at the depot as the desexing procedure, including pre- and post surgery care, will take about five hours.

Those booking an appointment will need to provide a health care or pension card and number and have proof of identification when registering their interest and on the day of their pets' desexing.

Anyone without health care or pension cards who cannot afford to pay a full fee service are invited to write a submission to Council detailing their financial situation.

It is an offence to keep an unregistered dog or cat within the Gladstone Region and registration costs are much cheaper than having to pay an impoundment fee or fine for pets found to be unregistered.

2014-15 registration renewal fees: Paid before October 31, 2014:  Entire animal: $75 (pension or concession $40);  Desexed or micro chipped animal: $40 (pension or concession $20);  Desexed and micro chipped animal: $20 (pension or concession $10);  Registered breeders animal $40.

Paid after October 31, 2014:  Entire animal: $95 (pension or concession $60);  Desexed or micro chipped animal: $50 (pension or concession $30);  Desexed and micro chipped animal: $25 (pension or concession $15);  Registered breeders animal $50.

All animals which undergo the procedure will require rest at home for a couple of days following their surgery, including being kept inside.

Numbers are limited. To register, complete the online form on Council's website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/cats-and-dogs, phone Council's Regulatory Services on 4977 6821, email info@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au or post a letter to Gladstone Regional Council, Regulatory Services, PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

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october

EVENTS CALENDAR OCTOBER 2

Welcome to Gladstone Morning Tea

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

7 & 21

General Council Meeting 9am 101 Goondoon Street Gladstone Community members are welcome to attend Council’s General Meetings. A list of agenda items is available from 5pm each Friday prior to the meeting.

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Language Cafe

9.30am - 11am Gladstone City Library (The Corner) Come along to the free language café for a cuppa and learn all there is to know about the English language. Whether you want to learn or help teach others, this is the event for you.

For more information phone 4976 6400.

november

NOVEMBER

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Councillor Community Awareness Session 9am - noon Stockland Gladstone Residents are encouraged to come along and have an informal chat with Councillors regarding any issues, topics or concerns.

No bookings are required.

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Information Session 10am - noon WIN Office, 10 Tank Street Residents are invited to an information session about employment. Phone 4976 6352 to book your spot.

4 & 18

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9am 101 Goondoon Street Gladstone Community members are welcome to attend Council’s general meetings. A list of agenda items is available from 5pm the Friday prior to the meeting.

9.30am - 11am Gladstone City Library (The Corner) Come along to the free language café for a cuppa and learn all there is to know about the English language. Whether you want to learn or help teach others, this is the event for you. For more information phone 4976 6400.

"Cooking, Camping and the Canning Stock Route". The Camping Ladies will present insights into camp cooking, provide a demonstration of The Chef Tookbox and offer lots of taste tests.

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Information Session 10am - noon

General Council Meeting

Language Cafe

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

For more information phone 4976 6300.

Councillor Community Awareness Session 9am - noon, Stockland Gladstone Residents are encouraged to come along and have an informal chat with Councillors regarding any issues, topics or concerns.

No bookings are required.

The Camping Ladies 2pm, Gladstone City Library

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WIN Office, 10 Tank Street Residents are invited to an information session about Education. Phone 4976 6352 to book your spot.

Cultural Calendar Traversing Antarctica

2014 Our Priceless Past

20 Sept - 1 Nov

7 Oct - 1 Nov

Scientific, historical and cultural items from the National Archives of Australia, the Western Australian Museum and the Australian Antarctic Division.

Chanel College students capture the stories of the region's Special Seniors.

A Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum initiative, held in conjunction with The Observer and Ergon Energy.

2014 Rio Tinto Alcan Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards Calling for submissions 30 Oct - 1 Nov Entry forms available online, contact the Gallery & Museum for more information.

Cnr Goondoon & Bramston Sts, Gladsone I Phone 4976 6766 I http://gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au FREE ADMISSION - Open 10am-5pm, Mon-Sat Closed 6 October and 3-7 November

Book-a-Latte at Calliope Library is open on Wednesday and Friday mornings.

COFFEE $3

TEA $2

What’s On

8 OCT

Black Diggers Simulcast All funds raised from the venture are put towards library improvements

regular features

REGULAR FEATURES School Holiday Activities

Various times, Various locations

Council's 2014 spring school holiday Events will offer plenty of entertainment from art and craft and board games to workshops and a pool party. Get in contact with a local facility today or visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/schoolholiday-activities

Story Time Various days and times, Regional Libraries

Story time and crafts for children aged up to five years. Bookings not required.

For more information contact your local library. Contact details can be found by visiting www.gladstonelibraries.qld.gov.au

Baby Bounce Various days and times, Regional Libraries

A lap-sit program is being held for a parent and their child less than two years old. This program includes songs and rhymes. Bookings are not required.

Contact details can be found by visiting www.gladstonelibraries.qld.gov.au

A unique stage depiction of the untold story of Indigenous diggers during the First World War Tickets $10.00

11 OCT

14 OCT

Celtic Legends

Rhonda Burchmore

15 OCT

21 OCT

Cinderella

TaikOz

24 OCT

2 DEC

Anh Do

Kamahl

Learn to Swim

Various days and times Gladstone Aquatic Centre

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

Phone 4972 6822 to make a booking.

Parent Baby Classes 9am - 10.30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre

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

Happy Hour 8am - 9am Weekdays Gladstone Aquatic Centre

This program allows pensioners (over 60 years) to use the Aquatic Centre for free to encourage staying fit and active. Phone 4972 6822 for more information.

How good are you at being nice to yourself?

Are you always putting yourself last on your list of priorities?

101 ways

to treat yourself well This FREE 2 hour workshop will look at how you can get better at treating yourself well and why this is important.

Community Advisory Service 142 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Tuesday 28th October 2014 - 6.00pm to 9.00pm Bookings essential. Please phone 4976 6300 to book your place.

From Ireland Tickets $79.00 to $59.00

Performed live by QLD Ballet Tickets $60.00 to $40.00

Happiest refugee live!

Tickets $49.90 to $46.90

Morning Melodies Tickets $12.50 to $11.50

Crimson Sky Tour Tickets $49.00 to $23.00

Morning Melodies Tickets $12.50 to $11.50

*lowest price generally indicates child or concession rate, please check online or contact the Box Office for further details

Follow us your way Box Office Opening hours – 8:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 1 hour prior to any advertised performance. P: 4972 2822 E: geccboxoffice@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Save money, time and environment with Sort 'n' Save program Big savings available to residents willing to recycle domestic waste Disposal of your domestic waste need not cost a cent at Council's waste management facilities.

Residents willing to sort through their recyclable domestic waste can save money, time and the environment through Council's Sort 'n' Save program.

The Sort 'n' Save program has been operational since 2010 and is as simple as sorting through your domestic recyclable waste prior to it arriving at any of Council's regional waste management facilities.

Many domestic recycle items can be disposed of at Council facilities free of charge all year.

This means not only savings for residents but also for the environment by reducing the amount of recyclable waste contributing to landfill.

No charges apply for the disposal of the following sorted domestic waste at Council's regional waste management facilities: • Domestic scrap metal including all white goods, iron and rain water tanks; • Car batteries; • LPG gas cylinders, empty, up to 9kg; • Domestic volumes of recyclable material including glass, steel or aluminium cans, recyclable plastic, milk and juice containers, paper and cardboard; • Domestic green waste and grass clippings, no contamination; and • Domestic cooking oils and waste engine oils, up to 20 litres;

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Scrap metal

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Green waste

Accepted at Benaraby and Gladstone only: • Domestic clean non-treated timber (no paint, or furniture).

Accepted at Benaraby and Agnes Water only: • Car bodies and other large metal items.

Accepted at Agnes Water, Gladstone and Benaraby only: • E-waste such as televisions, computers and monitors; and • Clean fill.

Residents can choose to participate in the Sort 'n' Save program by sorting through their domestic waste before visiting waste management facilities.

This sorted recyclable material can be easily placed in designated locations at the facilities.

By not recycling, higher disposal charges are incurred by users as a greater volume of waste is disposed.

It is important when using a waste management facility that you describe to the gatehouse attendant what type of waste and recyclables you have to dispose of.

This information will assist the gatehouse attendant to assess the load and apply the relevant charge.

Previous assessments have revealed an estimated 70 per cent of domestic waste disposed of at Council's waste management facilities could have been sorted and recycled.

Through the Sort 'n' Save program, Council aims to achieve environmental sustainability for the region by reducing its general waste volumes and increasing its recyclable waste volumes at its waste management facilities.

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Car batteries

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Oils

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LPG gas cylinders

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Timber

Recyclable material

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Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

Car Bodies

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Clean fill

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INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS Building materials not to be placed in wheelie bins Building materials are wrongly being disposed of in domestic waste and recycling bins across the region.

Council's waste and recycling contractor has reported an increase in the amount of building materials contaminating the domestic waste stream.

Items such as timber, bricks, pavers and concrete should not be disposed of using household wheelie bins.

These items cause blockages in the collection vehicles, reduce operational efficiencies and become a safety risk to employees.

Timber is free to dispose of at waste management facilities if it is considered to be clean. A disposal fee does apply to disposal of kitchen cupboards, bench tops and stained or laminated chipboard.

Domestic quantities of bricks, pavers and concrete can be disposed of at Benaraby Landfill at no cost.

Water Services' Matthew Scott and Dan Carper work to construct a new water main in Lyons Street.

675km of water mains and 557km of sewer mains keep Council on the go Network grows to cater for demands Although not particularly noticeable, Council's water and sewer assets are extensive.

Council's Water Services process involves the safe delivery of potable water, transportation of sewerage, treatment of sewerage and trade waste.

Council water crews carry out reactive and proactive maintenance as well as new water connections.

Reactive maintenance involves work on water mains, services, valves, hydrants and water meter infrastructure.

Domestic quantities of bricks, pavers and concrete are free to dispose at Benaraby Landfill, not via household wheelie bins.

This mainly results from customer service requests related to leaks on footpaths or water meter or tap maintenance when determined that the location of the works fall under the responsibility of Council.

Proactive maintenance focuses on Council's water meter replacement program, valve and hydrant maintenance.

Council's Water Services network is

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

growing with 22,246 water meters across the region.

The overall network currently consists of 675km of water mains, 11,563 sewer manholes, 557km of sewer main (gravity) and 100km of sewer mains (rising).

Council has 96 sewerage pump stations; water treatment plants at Miriam Vale, Bororen and Agnes Water; and sewerage treatment plants at Gladstone, Calliope, Boyne Island, South Trees, Tannum Sands, Yarwun and Agnes Water.

In addition, Council's Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) operations involve manhole inspections and condition assessment, high pressure water cleaning of the sewer asset and CCTV inspection and condition assessment.

CCTV operations are also utilised for blocked sewers, sewer overflows, manhole maintenance requests and sewer odour complaints.

Page 11

DEVELOPMENT SNAPSHOT

Does your pool or spa comply?

Maintenance of pool fences and safety barriers essential to reduce drownings and injuries As the weather warms up, Council reminds residents who have pools and spas to ensure they comply with Queensland Government legislation.

Maintenance of pool fences and safety barriers is essential to help reduce serious injury or drowning. Pool owners are responsible for making sure barriers are maintained and damages are fixed immediately.

All swimming pools in Queensland must be registered on the Government's pool safety register and need to comply with

pool safety laws by November 30, 2015, or earlier if the property is sold or leased.

Swimming pools that are completed in accordance with legislative requirements are automatically placed on the register by Council.

Residents can request a swimming pool advice inspection by Council and will be responded to within a 24-48 hour time frame.

A Pool Safety Inspection will cost $300 and includes a Pool Safety Certificate.

Residents are also reminded the same legislation applies to inflatable pools, either portable or fixed, if it is capable of holding water to a depth greater than 300mm.

To check if your pool or spa is registered, to apply for registration or for more information visit the Department of Housing and Public Works website at www.hpw.qld.gov.au or call Council's Building Services section on 4976 6851 to arrange a swimming pool advice inspection.

Full steam ahead on new planning scheme

Gladstone Regional Council

Planning Scheme

Our Place Our Plan

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

Page 12

COMMUNITY LIVING Donations to deliver regional Australia Day celebrations Regional communities have the opportunity to celebrate Australia Day in their own townships thanks to Gladstone Regional Council donations.

Council's 2015 Australia Day event funding allocation is now open and will be administered through its Donations to Community Organisations Program via category three 'Regional Event Support Australia Day Events'; eliminating the acquittal process or need to report back to Council.

Groups can apply for donation funding at any time throughout the year, but assessment of applications has now begun with successful applicants to be announced by the end of October.

Discovery Coast Community Health Service's Allied Health Assistant Thea Roberts plants her support of the Seeds of Hope program.

Community planting raises awareness of RU OK? Day New hope sprouts for those in need New hope is about to sprout from the soil following Discovery Coast Community Health Service's successful attempts at raising awareness of mental health issues, suicide and depression.

The DCCHS recently participated in the Seeds of Hope program by distributing sunflower seeds to residents in the southern sector of the region to plant on RU OK?Day on September 11.

Seeds of Hope was founded by Boots 'n Bulldust Inc., a group formed in the South Burnett with the aim of raising awareness of depression in rural communities.

Pacific Seeds donated the sunflower seeds and Officeworks and Staples supplied the plastic bags for the project.

Volunteers Jacqui James, Angelique Elliot, Kathy Robertson-Cipak, Narelle Edmunds, Jacquie Swinkels, Tracy Andrew, Sharyn Klease, Deb Zollner, Jan Long, Casey Mayell and Brendon Mayell assisted with packaging the seeds for distribution by DCCHS.

Guidelines for eligibility for funding for not-for-profit groups wishing to host an Australia Day event in the Gladstone Region is available via Council's website link www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/donations-andgrants A simple generic application form for those seeking funding assistance by way of the Community Donations Program is also available from the website.

For further information please contact Janine Sorrensen on 4976 6351 or email janineS@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au

By now the seeds have begun sprouting and will be in full bloom by December and January when suicide rates peak.

The DCCHS received a swell of support with calls received from across the region to assist with the project and request seeds.

The sight of stunning, bright sunflowers across the region will remind residents they live in a caring community; giving hope to those in need.

More than 35,000 seeds were distributed across the Gladstone Region by DCCHS in conjunction with program partner Wide Bay Australia Ltd.

There is still time to plant your free sunflower seeds and spread some support and hope to those affected by depression and mental health issues.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

Dwayne Sherwood is set with a snag in hand at the South End festivities.

Page 13

YOUTH UPDATE

A call is out for skate park users to become ambassadors at Council's five regional skate parks.

Search begins for skate park ambassadors Push for skate park users to respect regional facilities A renewed push has been placed on regional skate park users to 'respect the rules' and become an ambassador for their peers.

Council's Youth Development team is working towards introducing youth ambassadors at Council's five regional skate parks.

In coming months Youth Worker Michele

Tory will liaise with youth at the Gladstone Skate Park at Memorial Park, Riverside Skateway at Bray Park, the Calliope Skate Park at Bunting Park, the Agnes Water Skate & BMX Facility at Captain Cook Lions Park and Yarwun Skateway at the Yarwun Recreation Grounds to recruit volunteer youth ambassadors.

The ambassadors will act as role models to their fellow skate park users and

promote the importance of respecting the skate park facilities and the surrounding environment.

The concept is aimed at empowering local youth to take responsibility for the regional skate park facilities, encourage pride in their skate parks, mentor other skate park users to also value the skate parks, and reduce the amount of litter left by other users.

New youth worker appointed to the Gladstone Region Council has welcomed a fresh face to its Youth Development team with the recent appointment of new Youth Worker Michele Tory.

Michele started with Council in September and has thrust herself into the role with great enthusiasm and passion to be a 'voice' for the region's younger population.

Michele is based at the Community Advisory Service in Gladstone and is working alongside Council's Youth Development officer Vernetta Perrett to address the needs of young people in

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

the area.

Having worked many years in the youth industry, Michele started her new role meeting and liaising with local youth aged 12 to 25 years.

She is also working with other customers and stakeholders with the aim of delivering activities and programs specifically for youth.

In coming months Michele will assist with preparations for Council's annual youth holiday program, SUNfest 2015.

Page 14

ARTS & CULTURE Free venue hire offer for end of year celebrations Christmas is just around the corner and Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre is offering a 'festive season' bonus for corporate clients to take the stress out of organising Christmas parties and end of year celebrations.

For a limited time, GECC is offering Christmas Party Event packages that wave goodbye to venue hire charges on new bookings from Monday to Thursday between November 3 and December 11 (terms and conditions do apply).

Local artist Geoffrey Head accepting the 2013 Rio Tinto Alcan Martin Hanson Memorial Art Award overall prize on behalf of Ian Smith, from Jeremy Hastings, Rio Tinto Alcan Yarwun Manager Community Relations. Image by K. Price

Gladstone Region's major Art Awards to celebrate its 39th year Rio Tinto Alcan Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards entries open The Gladstone Region's Rio Tinto Alcan Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards will soon be calling for entries for 2014.

been introduced to the existing three entry sections of 'Easel Paintings', 'Works on Paper' and 'Three Dimensional & Fibre Works'.

Hosted by Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum, the annual Art Awards celebrates its 39th year in 2014 and its growing status as a nationally recognised event; attracting around 350 entries from across Australia each year.

It will include contemporary mediums such as moving image, photography, animation and soundscapes.

This year artists have the opportunity to take home the coveted overall prize of $15,000, sponsored by Rio Tinto Alcan, in addition to the lucrative prize pool of $19,500 thanks to the generous support of local individuals, business and industry, including Queensland Alumina Ltd., Murray & Wendy Schoenfisch, Australia Pacific LNG, Gladstone Ports Corporation and Stage & Audio.

The Art Awards offer local artists from Gladstone Region a valuable opportunity to exhibit on home ground alongside artworks from around the country.

This year a new section, 'Digital Works', has

The 2014 judge is Fine Arts Professor Pat Hoffie from the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University.

GECC offers a wide choice of exhibition space suitable for intimate groups or large shindigs.

There is the fully air-conditioned column-free interior, providing 850 square metres of uninterrupted floor space, which can transform into a flexible multipurpose function area, plus a further three conference rooms which can be combined for multiple configurations.

And you can't go past the Piazza outdoor area for something a little different.

For corporate enquiries phone Lauren Ellis, GECC Business Development Officer, on 4977 8632 or email laurene@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au to have GECC's award winning facilities prepared for your next event.

The official opening and Awards presentation will be at 6pm on November 8.

All Art Awards entries should be submitted to the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum between October 30 and November 1.

Entry fee is $15 per work.

Entry forms can be found online at http:// gallerymuseum.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au/ For all enquiries email the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum at gragm@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au or phone 4976 6766.

Gladstone Regional Council - The Council Connection October - November 2014

Page 15

2015

Australia Day Awards2015 Do you know someone who has excelled at sport, done something for others or are active contributors to our community?

a 2015 Australia Day Award?

Why not have them recognised by Gladstone Regional Council and the community by nominating them for

Nominations must be received by close of business on Friday, November 7.

Youth Holiday Program January 5-16, 2015

Entry is open to residents of all ages and nominees must reside in the Gladstone Region.

ds

il' Ki Youth & L

s e i t i v i t Ac

Categories include:

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

SUNfest Youth Holiday Program returns this summer with over 40 activities

Nominations Close November 7 Information and nomination forms available at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au For further details phone 4976 6953.

get

ready it's

cyclone season

For more information contact Gladstone Festival and Events Inc on 4972 5111 www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/sunfest

See ou Disaste r r Hub

Find out more Visit Council's website www.gladstone.qld.gov.au and follow the 'Emergencies and Disasters' Link

Check Online out M to see apping if you a re flood p rone

I

Tickets on sale December 3

Join Co un Early W cil's arnin Networ g k

Follow Co Facebo uncil's ok Pag e

Get the l Road C atest onditio n Report s

Program Available from November 14

View th e Gladst one Emerge ncy Action Guide

Check o Inform ut the ation a nd Brochu res

See BO M's Latest River Height s

I

SES 132 500 Life Threatening Emergiencies 000 Council 4970 0700 or 4977 6655 when the local disaster coordination centre is activated