2011 February Council Connection

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Councilconnection

FEBRUARY 2011 - ISSUE 30

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

Gladstone Regional Council Phone 497 0 0700 Fax 4975 8500 Email info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

h t u o Y ivities

Region to get one set of local laws

Act

Have you ever wondered why you are able to drive on to some beaches within the region and not others or are able to live in temporary buildings in some areas and not others?

And why can some residents keep more animals than others?

This is the result of decisions made by the former Councils that now comprise the amalgamated Gladstone Regional Council local government area.

Council is embarking on a project that will lead to the introduction on July 1 this year of one set of local laws that applies to everyone – regardless of where they reside.

Mayor Gail Sellers said Council was required to consolidate all local laws by the year’s end but had decided to bring the process forward to July 1 to eliminate double-up of work as some existing local laws had expiration dates prior to December 31.

She said Council proposed to adopt four Model Local Laws which have been gazetted by the State Government that covered issues common to many local governments; two other local laws based on State Governmentrecommended Model Local Laws but with minor variations; and one other new local law that is specifically tailored to the region’s needs.

FilmFest documents regional flooding Tamara Hofstetter, 14, interviews Mayor Gail Sellers as part of SUNfest activity 'FilmFest' recently. See story - Page 9 and wrap up - Pages 8 & 9

FEBRUARY2011 - Continued on page 2

IN THIS ISSUE

2

Mayor's Message

3

Healthy Active Gladstone

4

University scholarship

6

Increase in water charges

Visit Council’s Website - www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

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Moves on mozzies

e g a s s e M s ' r o y a The M go for all, but se of mateship and a fair sen a on lt bui s wa ion nat l disaster such as Australia as a idly as in times of natura viv as ion act in it see rarely do we now.

Queensland is experiencing d devastation which has for tunately escaped the floo has n h gio Re one dst Gla e Th not escape unscathed wit as of the State, but did are er e oth ers on adv ht ng oug nci wr n erie bee tricts exp western and nor thern dis rn, the sou our in nts ide res conditions. sense of mateship people during this time, the of t bes the n see stly mo es gather together We have ing to the fore as communiti com d han a d len to s nes and willing es of adversity. to help each other out in tim bounce back will enable the region to ich wh rit spi nity mu com repair of the It is this sense of ient, especially where the pat be st mu ple peo but from this setback, ned. region's roads are concer d as quickly as possible, t to have our roads repaire mp atte ry eve g kin ma is il Counc general sodden condition ed by the weather and the per ham n bee e hav s ort but eff of the ground. nity volunteers the Council staff and commu to you nk tha big a end ext road information I would like to iod to ensure flood and per s ma rist Ch the ing dur region were not who worked idents and visitors to the res of s live the t tha and was current endangered on our roads.

- Mayor

It is this sense of “ community spirit which will enable the region to bounce back.

”

Gail Sellers

Residents invited to have their say on proposed local laws - Continued from page 1 In line with legal requirements, Council will also propose a local law that will repeal or cancel out those in existence to ensure the new local laws can be commenced.

“In all, there will be seven local laws and 25 subordinates which elaborate or explain the application of the local laws,” she said.

“In addition, Council will conduct public interest testing and invite submissions on all local law provisions that are identified as being anti-competitive.”

Council has secured solicitors King & Co. to ensure that the process meets all legislative requirements.

“This is quite a complicated process but what residents really need to know is that Council is keen to hear their views on the proposals so that their input can be considered when the final drafts are prepared,” Cr Sellers said.

Public meetings are scheduled for February and residents are encouraged to visit one to discuss the proposals and the implications for them on their adoption (see accompanying list).

In the meantime, residents can access fact sheets and relevant information from Council’s website at www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au The site also contains information on how to provide valid feedback and an email link for people seeking further information.

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GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Have Your Say

Proposed Local Laws - Meeting dates and times Date

Time

Location

Mon, Feb 7

5.00pm – 6.30pm

Mt Larcom Public Hall, 47 Raglan St, Mt Larcom

Wed, Feb 9

12.30pm – Calliope Community Centre – Don 2.00pm Cameron Drive, Calliope

Wed, Feb 9

3.15pm – 4.45pm

Ubobo Hall – Railway Terrace, Ubobo

Thurs, Feb 10

7.30am – 9.00am

Gladstone Entertainment Centre Basement Playhouse – 58 Goondoon St, Gladstone

Thurs, Feb 10

5.30pm – 7.00pm

Boyne Tannum Community Centre – Cnr Wyndham & Hayes Ave, Boyne Island

Friday, Feb 11

3.15pm – 4.45pm

Rosedale Memorial Hall – James Street, Rosedale

Mon, Feb 14

6.15pm – 7.45pm

Miriam Vale Community Centre – Blomfield St, Miriam Vale

Tues, Feb 15

5.15pm – 6.45pm

Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort – 1 Grahame Colyer Drive, Agnes Water

Healthy Active Gladstone Region has one million reasons to be patient Crystal McGregor from Amarna is about to post the 2010 Healthy Queensland Awards submission.

Briefly New trustee

The Baffle Creek Sport and Recreation Association (BCSRA) has been granted a 10 year trustee lease over Wartburg Recreation Grounds. This follows the Lions Club of Baffle Creek's surrendering of the lease of the grounds so it can focus on initiatives for the broader community. The grounds will be maintained by the BCSRA in conjunction with the Lions Club.

Park on hold

Application forms have been submitted for the 2010 Healthy Queensland Awards and now all that is left to do is wait for the judges to decide.

Last year, Gladstone Regional Council was named joint winner of the title 'Queensland's Healthiest Community' at the inaugural awards in 2009 for the Healthy Active Gladstone Region (HAGR) initiative and the committee is hungry to win coveted award again.

HAGR committee chairperson Mayor Gail Sellers said the Healthy Queensland Awards was an annual state-wide competition to find Queensland's Healthiest Community, School and Workplace.

"This year we submitted applications for Queensland's Healthiest Community and Queensland's Healthiest Workplace," Cr Sellers said.

"We also assisted Rosella Park School prepare its application for Queensland's Healthiest School and if they are successful in winning a prize they

plan on using the money to build a fitness station at the school, similar to those installed around the region."

Winners will share in a prize pool totalling $1 million for communities and $100,000 for workplaces which is to be used towards healthy infrastructure.

"A lot of hard work was put in to developing the applications," Cr Sellers said.

"We have been extremely busy since winning Queensland's Healthiest Community, implementing new strategies to get the inactive active and the unhealthy healthy, including an Active Link for Migrants program.

"Healthy Active Gladstone Region is a best practice approach to getting a community healthy and active and we hope this is recognised again at the Healthy Queensland Awards."

Finalists are expected to be announced in early March.

475 lots to help address housing needs Council took a step towards facilitating Gladstone's future housing needs recently when it issued an approval for the development of an additional 475 lots at Little Creek Estate off Kirkwood Road.

Council approved Stages 6-9 and 11-19 of the estate, bringing to 4500 the number of uncompleted lots that have approval, but which are either under construction or yet to start construction.

With recent Operational Works approvals within Emmadale Gardens Estate (57 lots) and the Vantage Estate (87 lots), also off Kirkwood Road, this also takes the number of lots with operational works approval to more than 500.

Council’s Development portfolio spokesperson Councillor Craig Butler said new dwelling approvals in the 2009/10 financial year were subdued, but had increased significantly during the final three months of last year.

"If, as anticipated, the demand for new dwellings substantially increases, the large number of approved allotments are able to be brought online and provide additional housing to ease pressure on existing housing stocks," Cr Butler said.

"There are lead times to bring about the construction of the new lots, and subsequently new housing, and Council is keen to see housing strategies released by major industrial proponents so that the private sector can move forward with certainty on approved developments."

Council has temporarily closed access to the playground equipment in Wyndham Park, Boyne Island to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

An internal safety audit revealed that the equipment no longer meets Australian standards for playgrounds. Council will soon discuss plans for the replacement equipment at the park with the community.

Online author chat

Children from the region chatted online with author/illustrator John Danalis recently. The chat session was one of the library's Summer Reading Club activities for school children, aimed at reconnecting and cultivating story-telling abilities. Children were encouraged to ask John about his written works which include his latest book Dog 37, Riding the Black Cockatoo, Schumann the Shoeman, Uncle Lou's Tattoos and Uncorked!

Website for volunteers

Gladstone Region Volunteering is an online volunteer recruitment website that links residents to organisations in need of volunteers. By following the "heart and hands" icon on the right hand side of Council’s home page at www.gladstonerc. qld.gov.au, residents can search what volunteer positions are available or nominate themselves for future roles.

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Council backs CQUniversity disaster resilience scholarships Gladstone Regional Council has joined forces with CQUniversity Australia’s Gladstone Campus to fund two scholarships that are aimed at enhancing natural disaster resilience within the region.

The two $12,500 scholarships for final year students in any faculty or course are open for nomination now.

Gladstone Regional Council’s Chief Executive Officer Graeme Kanofski said the scholarships came as a result of a commitment Council made as part of the funding received for the $1.65 million Tigalee Creek flood mitigation project at Sun Valley in Gladstone.

“The Tigalee Project at Kathleen Shanahan Park is equally funded between Council and the Federal and State Governments and part of our brief is a commitment to enhance natural disaster resilience within our community,” Mr Kanofski said.

“We only have to look at natural disasters of recent years in Queensland, such as Cyclone Larry at Innisfail and the tropical cyclones of the past two years that hovered off the coast here and the devastating December-January floods throughout the state, to realise just how important it is for us to ensure we are prepared Council's Chief Executive Officer Graeme Kanofski signs the scholarship funding agreement in the and know what to do when a natural disaster presence of Mayor Gail Sellers and CQUniversity Australia Gladstone Head of Campus Professor Chad Hewitt. of any kind occurs.”

Mr Kanofski signed the sponsorship contract in the presence of Mayor Gail Sellers and Head of Campus and Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Chad Hewitt in the Mayor’s office.

In signing the document, Professor Hewitt said that the scholarships were a great opportunity for students, as they provided significant funding support, coupled with the opportunity to combine their studies with work experience.

“On behalf of our students, we are very grateful to Gladstone Regional Council for continuing to support student scholarships. They have a significant impact on a student’s ability to attend and succeed at University," Professor Hewitt said.

“Scholarships provide much encouragement for our students and we are proud to extend our partnership with Gladstone Regional Council to include a project which will deliver research outcomes that make a practical contribution to our community.”

For more information on how you can support Academic Prizes or Scholarships at CQUniversity please contact Melissa Misztal, Office of Development and Graduate Relations, (07) 4923 2786.

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FACT FILE

The scholarship brief is to be develope d by prospective scholarship recipients but must focus on enhancing disaster resilience within the Gladstone Region.

Such projects could include, but are not limited, to the following examples: • Developing a communications plan and materials for Council to communicate to residents about the types of natural disa sters that exist and how to best prepare and manage during and after them.

• Developing a media campaign prom oting disaster resilience to the Gladston e Region, including the development of a marketing plan to support recr uitment strategies for the State Emergency Serv ices volunteers in the Gladstone Region.

• Providing natural hazard assessm ents that take into account climate chan ge issues.

• Undertaking a community research project that will help the Local Disaster Management Group.

• Better prepare and accommodate natural disaster situations.

• Design, develop and implement a natural disaster resilience program in the region’s schools.

• Any other project that enhances disa ster

resilience within the Gladstone Region.

The scholarship application guidelines are published on Council’s and CQUnive rsity Australia’s website and applications will close on Febr uary 14, 2011. For further information on the scholarships, please contact Margaret Hood on 4930 9724.

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Our

Place Our PLAN

Regional planning scheme development enters working draft phase Council's Strategic Planning officers are continuing to work on a new land-use planning scheme for Gladstone Regional Council.

Staff are now putting together a working draft of the required planning documents following the close of the Our Place Our Plan Discussion Document public consultation in August last year.

The new planning scheme will have to accord with the State Government's Sustainable Planning Act 2009, which sets out the methodology for scheme preparation. This includes a mandatory standard format for planning schemes (known as the Queensland Planning Provisions).

The intent of the new system is that there is a greater degree of uniformity between planning schemes for all Council areas, particularly in the layout of the documentation and the approach taken in drafting much of the content.

The aim is to reduce confusion when moving from one Council's planning scheme to another. A simple example of this is that there will only be one definition of a “dwelling house” across the state rather than several versions of the definition.

The Queensland Planning Provisions allow for "local" content to be added among the mandatory sections and are continuing to be refined by the State Government. The feedback received by Council on the Our Place Our Plan Discussion Document is helping to build this "local" content for the proposed new planning scheme.

The purpose of the Discussion Document was to help the community identify key issues that can be addressed by the planning scheme.

Councillors have been involved in reviewing the submissions which were received and this has enabled them to give some direction to staff on Council's approach to several of these key issues.

During the drafting of the scheme, it will also be necessary for officers to liaise closely with several State agencies to ensure that the interests of those Departments are included and addressed in the scheme.

The Department of Infrastructure and Planning will assist in coordinating these meetings. It is expected that some of these negotiations might lead to the Council's draft scheme being modified if required.

Council officers are intending on commencing the first round of these meetings in the coming weeks.

There are now also five background studies which have been commissioned as part of the planning scheme preparation.

Several of these studies have been on going now for some time, while the latest was commissioned in the last quarter of 2010.

The findings of the various strategies will provide useful resource material for the planning scheme.

In terms of the administration of the strategies, Council intends to

make each one available for public comment upon receipt of the final copy of them.

Officers are presently reviewing drafts of the first four studies and will meet with Department of Infrastructure and Planning personnel to obtain support to the studies being utilised in the scheme preparation process. It may well be that the on-going work on the scheme could necessitate undertaking future studies as well.

The five current strategies and their main purpose are as follows: • The Rural Living Strategy is intended to provide strategic direction for rural residential style development in the Council area. Officers are reviewing the first draft of the report from the consultants.

• The Retail and Commercial Strategy aims to determine the future shopping and commercial needs for the region. The second draft of this report is currently being appraised.

• The Industrial Lands Strategy will assist in determining future need and demand for industrial land. With potential large scale industrial developments being sited in the Gladstone State Development Area it is imperative that Council's new planning scheme provides the balance of the requirements for heavy industries all the way through to light/service industry needs.

The first draft of this study is also being examined by Council officers.

• The Housing Needs Assessment is an important study in that its aim is to provide to Council an understanding of the current and future housing issues and needs in the region. It is intended to cover all aspects of housing from aged care facilities and retirement villages, to workers accommodation and caravan parks, as well as address the need to provide for variety and affordability in single unit housing as well. The first draft of this study has recently been provided to Council and it is currently being evaluated to see if it has addressed the brief.

• The Landscape Assessment and Building Height Strategy has recently been commissioned. The purpose of this study is to firstly undertake a landscape assessment of the region which will allow for some quantifiable measurement of scenic values to be developed, and secondly review current land use planning controls on the maximum height of new developments in certain areas. The consultant has provided a preliminary options report to Council, and following assessment of this it is expected that the focus of the remaining work will be set.

The recent retirement of Council's Manager of Strategic Planning, coupled with the upsurge in activity in the LNG sector, has meant that some timelines in relation to finalising the strategies have had to be re-evaluated but it is not expected to impact on the completion of the overall planning scheme review.

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Council issues increased water charges in February Residents will experience the previously announced rise in water charges when notices arrive in just over a fortnight.

while charges for the Seventeen Seventy/Agnes Water scheme will rise from $3.11/kL to $3.44/ kL.

Residents connected to the Lake Awoonga Scheme will now pay $1.50 per kilolitre which, coincidentally, is what the Gladstone Area Water Board charges Council for the water. The price of water charged by the Gladstone Area Water Board is subject to an independent prices oversight by the Queensland Competition Authority.

Council is also phasing in the adoption of a “postage stamp” pricing policy for its water and sewerage charges over a 10-year time span.

Gladstone Mayor Gail Sellers said while it appeared ironic at present with so much water throughout Queensland from rain and floods, the rise represents the actual cost of providing treated water to the consumer through an intensive network.

The Lake Awoonga Scheme water consumption charge will change from $0.95 to $1.50 per 1000 litres, representing an increase of 55 cents per kilolitre.

Residents in the Miriam Vale/Bororen scheme will see an increase from $3.36/kL to $3.50/kL

Postage stamp pricing means every customer in the network will pay the same price, regardless of where they reside.

This differs from user-pays pricing where each network is treated as a separate entity and charges are based on the cost of providing that supply.

A 30-day payment will apply to the Water Usage Notices, which roughly cover the usage period from July 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010.

Residents are expected to pay their water charges in full with no discounts applicable. Any residents concerned about meeting payments are encouraged to contact council’s Rates Office on 4976 6999.

FACTS • Lake Awoonga Treated Water Scheme services Gladstone, Boyne Island, Tannum Sands, Benaraby, Wurdong Heights, Calliope, Beecher and Mt Larcom.

• Miriam Vale and Bororen Water Supply Scheme services towns with treated water from Baffle Creek supplemented by bores operated by Council.

• Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy services both these townships with treated water from bores operated by Council.

• Council encourages residents to be waterwise to conserve the precious resource now and for the future. For water saving tips visit www.derm.qld.gov.au/ waterwise

Inspections of pools and certificates are now compulsory The State Government's second stage of swimming pool legislation changes, requiring pool owners to undergo inspections and obtain safety certificates, came into effect on December 1.

These changes necessitate the inspection and issue of a pool safety certificate for residential pools upon the sale or lease of a property or within an initial five year period.

Gladstone Regional Council Development spokesperson Councillor Craig Butler said Council's Building Certifiers had been automatically licensed as pool safety inspectors with additional help to arise from the provision of specific training courses for both private and local government personnel.

"With training courses only now being rolled out, it is likely that Council staff will shoulder much of the work load during the initial

Cr McDonald welcomed Gladstone Regional Council has welcomed new Councillor Graham McDonald as the Parks and Recreation portfolio spokesperson.

Cr McDonald was appointed to the vacant Councillor position created by Gail Sellers' ascendency to the Mayoral role. The experienced Local Government representative, who previously served 14 years as a Calliope Shire Councillor, said he spent much of the Christmas break reading through various reports in order to be prepared for the busy year ahead. "I'm looking forward to the portfolio of Parks and Recreation and working with Council staff to best serve the Gladstone Region," Cr McDonald said.

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GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

six months after the legislation changes, including setting up systems and processes to address the changes and completing site inspections," Cr Butler said.

Cr Butler said Provisions of the Building Act were such that Council must provide a compliance inspection service, resulting in a service fee of $209, including GST, which was limited to the recovery of costs incurred.

Please use the stairs Residents have been urged to use the stair accesses when visiting the Agnes Water Beach to help reduce erosion along the dunes. Council installed four sets of access stairs to Agnes Water Beach following the destruction caused by Cyclone Hamish last year, which severely eroded the beach and undermined the sand dunes, rendering them extremely unsafe for residents and tourists. Council has permanently closed access to numerous informal and temporary tracks that were contributing to erosion and impacting on the sensitive, erosion-prone dunal systems.

Regional school children celebrate just what makes Australia great

Briefly

Lost and found pets

Have you lost or found a pet?

Did you know that you can register your lost or found pet at Council’s website free of charge?

Simply visit www.gladstonerc. qld.gov.au and follow the "Animals and environment" link from the home page.

Home Library Services

Gallery/Museum Research Officer Marilyn Haertel takes time out to enjoy the wonderful entries in the 2011 Celebrate Australia Primary School Art Competition at the Tondoon Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre during January.

There has been no shortage of entries from emerging regional artists in the Celebrate Australia Primary School Art Competition.

Almost 300 entries were received in the competition that challenges primary school students to express through art who and what makes Australia great.

Gallery/Museum Director Pamela Whitlock had the difficult task of judging the submissions and spoke about the very high standard of works received.

"There has been such a tremendous effort from the region's young artists in this year's competition," she said.

"The judging was a fascinating and exciting task with so many worthy of prizes. It's a shame not to be able to give prizes to everyone."

The six prize-winning entries have been made into commemorative postcards to celebrate Australia Day and are available free at the Gallery/Museum.

The entries are on display at the Art Gallery/ Museum until Monday, February 28.

Thirty finalist entries will be transported to Gladstone's Sister City, Saiki, in Japan next month to celebrate the 15 year Sister City friendship.

The competition is an initiative of the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum.

Winners:

Section One: Prep to Year 3 – 1st Kangaroo Visiting Platypus on Australia Day, Lauren Porteous, Gladstone West State School; 2nd Australian Animals, Rory Antoniou, St Stephen’s Lutheran College; 3rd Royal Flying Doctor over Uluru, Joshua Hardy, Independent; highly commended - Koala Bear, Gabbee Green, Boyne Island State School; Surfing, Luke Baltze, St Stephen’s Lutheran College; The Sun Star, Hannah Rigby, Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School and Shark Attack, Blake Jordison, St Stephen’s Lutheran College.

Section Two: Year 4 to Year 7 – 1st Aussie Aboriginal, Kailu Craigie, Clinton State School; 2nd Australian Things, William Nahrung, St Stephen’s Lutheran College; 3rd The Aussie Outback, Monique Morgan, Clinton State School; highly commended - Symbols of Australian Life, Layla Smith, Tannum Sands State School; Snags and Surfing by the Beach, Joshua Bessell, Kin Kora State School; The Great Barrier Reef, Brielle Couch, Faith Baptist Christian School; and Beach and Bush, Matthew Hare, Yarwun State School.

Big wet delays airport terminal construction Work on the Gladstone Airport Terminal extension has been delayed due to extreme wet weather conditions experienced during December and January.

Gladstone Airport portfolio spokesperson Councillor Clyde Cameron said supplies for the construction of the terminal could not be transported to Gladstone during the crisis in Central Queensland and then the southern part of

the state.

“There were also workers who could not get here because they were isolated in flooded areas, so we are now in the process of determining just how far behind we are,” Cr Cameron said.

Council will advise residents of the new dates as soon as there is sufficient information from around the state as to when suppliers will be back in production and tradesmen are available.

The Gladstone City Library provides a Home Library Service to residents of Gladstone and the township areas of Boyne Island, Tannum Sands and Calliope. The Home Library Service caters to the needs of residents who are unable to visit the library due to medical, physical, or other special reasons. For more information or to determine whether or not you might be eligible for this service, please contact Gladstone City Library on 4976 6400.

Council meetings

Did you know that residents are welcome to view Council’s meetings? Council’s meetings for February are Tuesday, February 1 and Tuesday, February 15. The meeting agenda and minutes of each meeting can be accessed via Council’s website at www. gladstonerc.qld.gov.au and following the "Your Council" and "Meetings" tabs.

Get active

If you are you getting bored with exercise and your diet but want to stay active and healthy, then contact the Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) because it is offering a program just for you. Each week, the DCCHS runs group activities for people who might otherwise struggle for motivation. These include: “Getin2Cricket”, Pilates, Walking Groups, Introduction to Tae Kwon Do, Tai Chi for Health and a “Food for Life” program. To register your interest phone the DCCHS on 4902 1100.

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h t u Yo ies

t i v i t Ac

Hundreds turn out for action-packed SUNfest 2011 Hundreds of Gladstone children and youth have made the most of Gladstone Regional Council’s SUNfest 2011 program of holiday activities.

visiting family and sisters from Baffle Creek who made some amazing items during pottery making activities at the Potters Place in Gladstone.

SUNfest 2011 ran from January 11 for two weeks, offering a range of art and crafts, cultural, performing arts and recreational activities in two age categories – eight to 11 year olds and 12-17 year olds.

Among the highlights, according to Kathy Andrew from Gladstone Festivals and Events which coordinated the program on behalf of Council, was the staging of Filmfest in which youth made a local documentary on the effects of flooding in the Gladstone Region.

The introduction of the SUNfest Lil’ Kids program for the eight to 11 year old age group proved popular with most events sold out well before the start of the programmed activities.

The action sport and recreational activities were the most popular among the older group.

Caren Rattray, 12, of Baffle Creek makes a pot at Pottery Wheel Fun.

Several participants travelled from the region’s remote localities this year to take part in activities, including a teenager from Lismore who was

“What this group did was amazing and really captured the mood of residents following the devastating floods in central and southern Queensland,” Mrs Andrew said.

Mrs Andrew said the online ticketing system through the Gladstone Entertainment Centre was much improved this year after a few teething problems the previous year and parents of children expressed their gratitude at being able to book and manage their bookings online.

“We will now review what was done in 2011 and look at ways to again improve the program next year," Mrs Andrew said.

Shew said residents who wanted to offer ideas for future years could do so by emailing consultation@ gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

pillars of the Jack Blandford, 13, of Yarwun, paints the Gladstone City Library.

Sam Bebendor f, 11, and Connor Moo re, 9, both of Gladstone get into the action at Laser Skirmish.

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Claire McKay, 9, of Tannum Sands, and Delaney Gothman, 9, of Boyne Island at the Animals in Clay activity.

ica Hamilton, 16, of Jenny Hamilton, 15, of Gladstone, Jess ope, at Self as Art. Calli of Gladstone and Billie Hamilton, 13,

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Ashton Kennedy, 12, of Benaraby at Pottery Wheel Fun.

Filmfest documents flooding Acting, script writing, filming and production of a documentary provided a keen group of youth with an activity of a lifetime in January.

The activity was FilmFest, part of Gladstone Regional Council’s SUNfest 2011 youth holiday program.

Peter Hausheer (back), 13, and Sam Flintham, 12, both of Gladstone, at the T-Shirt Design workshop.

Luke Hitchcock, 9, of Gladstone, gets into Laser Skirmish at Tondoon Bota nic Gardens.

FilmFest, which has been running for nine years each January at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum is a popular event that teaches youth film production techniques.

Among the group this year was Tamara Hofstetter, 14, of Gladstone, who said she enjoyed every moment of learning from the visiting tutors.

Alieta Belle of Earth Base Productions and Karenza Ebejer of Moving Image Media, both of the Sunshine Coast, said they tried to work on a different genre of film each year.

This year’s focus was the creation of a documentary on the flooding situation in Gladstone and the effects on the community.

“The children really enjoyed interviewing Mayor Gail Sellers as she was so accommodating and supportive of what we were trying to achieve,” Alieta said.

Matthew Bignall, 13, of Tannum Sands, gets instruction from Bill Scarborough, of Gladstone at Clay Target Sho oting.

Filming of different locations and subjects continued throughout the week and culminated in the creation of the documentary that was shown at the SUNfest 2011 Blow Out event at the PCYC on the final day of SUNfest 2011.

SUNfest is coordinated by Gladstone Festivals and Events and held for a fortnight each January across the region.

ds.

Sally Baker, 14, at Clay Hea

Some 30 sport and recreation, art and craft, performing arts and cultural activities were offered in two age divisions – eight to 11 year olds and 12 to 17 year olds – this year.

Mayor Sellers said the children asked very relevant questions and conducted themselves very well.

“The final product was very professional and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I congratulate the tutors and students on a job well done,” Cr Sellers said.

dstone, at Paint the Jessica Barrett, 16, of Gla City Librar y. one dst Pillars underneath Gla

Amy Gorman-Robinson 12, of Gladstone, at the T-Shirt Design workshop.

Ben Dempsey, Darr yl Eilola and Reonui Gray at the SUNfest AFL Fast & Furious.

A scene from FilmFest.

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Council and industry join to tackle mozzies head-on Gladstone Regional Council and industry moved a step closer to establishing a joint mosquito management strategy at the recent Mosquito Management Forum at Gladstone City Library.

"We are limited in that we are awaiting the release of the Queensland Government's State Strategy so that we can develop a plan based on the same principles, but we have made a promising start," Mr Sotiris said.

willingness to work with Council.

Representatives from Council, Rio Tinto, Bechtel, Gladstone Ports Corporation, NRG, Queensland Alumina Ltd, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service and Santos met at the forum to discuss mosquito control and management strategies.

"We identified the need for a survey of the Gladstone Region in order to identify hot spot areas and ascertain which ones are being treated and which are not".

"Many industries occupy large tracts of land that provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding".

Gladstone Regional Council Environment and Regulation Acting Director Charlie Sotiris said one of the major purposes of the forum was to develop principles to guide the region's progress in mosquito management.

Mr Sotiris said in addition to working with industry, Council would seek permission from Queensland Health to access and manage state development land within the region.

He said the pursuit of effective management measures had been aided by industry's

"The various industry groups either have their own mosquito control programs or have Council carry out treatments," Mr Sotiris said.

The forum participants are scheduled to meet again in April or May unless the recent heavy rains and flooding create abnormally large mosquito numbers, in which case it will be reconvened earlier.

A mosquito management brochure is available for viewing on the Council website at www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Gladstone Foundation Board takes shape The Gladstone Foundation being set up by the State Government to manage the allocation of industry contributions to the community is taking shape with the recent appointment of four of the seven Board positions.

The State Government recently appointed Jim Petrich as the independent chair of the Gladstone Foundations’ Board of Advice.

Mr Petrich has extensive experience as a director of boards in the public and private sectors and most recently was involved with the Cape York Peninsula Development Association, the Cattlemen’s Union of Australia and a number of indigenous trusts.

Three of six board members were also announced - Gladstone Regional Council Mayor Gail Sellers; Judy Reynolds from the Gladstone Economic and Industry Develop Board and Kim Mahoney from the Department of Infrastructure and Planning.

Three other vacant positions will be filled by representatives from local business, community and philanthropic areas in the near future.

Mayor Gail Sellers said she had already met with Mr Petrich and had found him knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the role and expectations of the Board.

“I am confident Mr Petrich will actively lead this Board in encouraging industry investment in Gladstone’s social infrastructure, especially as the liquefied natural gas industry ramps up,” she said.

The Gladstone Foundation Board of Advice Chairperson Jim Petrich met with Mayor Gail Sellers at the Civic Centre in Gladstone recently.

The Gladstone Foundation’s brief will be to regularly consider the Draft Voluntary Industry Contributions Framework — a list of social infrastructure projects which have been identified by the local community — on criteria based on viability, demonstrated need and compatibility with industry requirements.

It will also, among other things, oversee the actions of the recentlyreleased Land Management Plan for the long-term protection of green space on Curtis Island. A copy of the plan is available from the Department of Infrastructure and Planning website.

Idyllic Gardens kiosk open and doing a brisk trade Word is spreading quickly that the Tondoon Botanic Gardens kiosk has reopened, making a visit to the gardens an even more enjoyable experience.

The new lessees, mother and daughter team Debbie and Chantelle Ward, are delighted with the response they have had since they opened BG's Café and Takeaway in December.

"We seem to be getting busier all the time since we opened and people are saying that it's great that the kiosk is open again," Debbie said.

"We are looking to cater for families with kids' meals, while the ladies

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GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

can come and have a coffee and our big brekkie has been popular with the blokes."

Debbie said she and Chantelle were delighted with the opportunity to take over the lease at the kiosk.

"It's such a beautiful spot to work," Debbie said, gesturing to the kiosk's lake outlook.

The kiosk is open from 8am to 4pm seven days a week and can be contacted on 4979 0993.

The Gardens are located off Glenlyon Road.

Council counts Residents reminded to keep their the cost of flood pet's microchip details up to date damage to roads Gladstone Regional Council is reminding residents to ensure their pet's microchip details are kept up to date.

Gladstone Regional Council continues to count the cost of flood damage to essential infrastructure in the wake of the Christmas to New Year deluge throughout the region.

Infrastructure Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Matt Burnett said the damage bill to the region’s network of roads could cost several million dollars, but a final figure would not be known for some time to come.

“While we are all very thankful that we have not suffered as severely as we could have, it is imperative that we attempt to restore access for all as soon as possible,” Cr Burnett said.

He said rain during the last quarter of 2010 had already forced Council to delay about $1 million of work until next year and the deluge between Boxing Day and New Year was likely to double the amount of planned work that would not be completed this financial year.

“Our focus will be on completing essential repair work and the projects that have attracted either Federal or State funding as they have specific deadlines attached to them.”

Cr Burnett said there were several lessons learned from the flood situation and Council would now go about the job of trying to address these in the event that such a situation occurs in the future.

In the meantime, the Deputy Mayor asked residents to be considerate of the extent of damage and the impacts on Council resources as a result.

“We’ve had a lot of requests for road work and repairs. At this stage, our priority is to ensure everyone has safe access and we ask for your patience because the repair working is going to take some time,” Cr Burnett said.

“Please be mindful that the water-logging of the ground has made it almost impossible to fix some roads because they continue to sink or subside as motorists travel along them.

“Emergency repairs are currently being done but the extent of the damage is extensive and we will not know what’s ahead of us until our detailed engineering investigations are concluded.”

Council Local Laws Coordinator Sarah Kummerow said several microchipped pets had been impounded in recent weeks, but the information contained in the microchips had been out of date.

"The main concern for our officers is that, when an animal is impounded and it is found to have a microchip, it is often the case that the contact details for the owner are not correct," Ms Kummerow said.

"Quite often animals have been sold or given away and the microchip details have not yet been updated with the licence holder.

"This makes the task of tracking the owner down twice as difficult and more time consuming and Council would prefer to re-

unite lost pets with their owner as soon as possible."

Ms Kummerow said cat and dog owners are obligated, as per the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2009, to give notice within seven days of changed information.

She said it was essential that owners ensured their contact information related to their pets' microchip number was correct.

Pet owners are urged to contact the licence holder in the case they have changed address, sold or given their pet away.

Council recommends that pet owners also have an alternate contact person in case they cannot be contacted in an emergency.

Should you require any further information regarding microchipping, please contact Council's Local Law Enforcement office on 49766972.

What’s happening at our parks?

PROJECT

SCOPE OF WORKS

STATUS

Agnes Water Agnes Water Community Centre Complex - completion of the Multi Cultural Resource Centre and Hall

Late February

Calliope

Hazelbrook Park - replace existing playground

Late March

Tannum Sands

Millennium Esplanade - replace existing playground

Late February

Gladstone

Lions Park - replace existing playground. Awaiting concept plan to show how equipment will fit - budget allocation required in 11/12 budget

Late January

Calliope

New Cemetery Concepts completed, Council to undertake the design documentation for the entrance and road

Late February

Miriam Vale

Design for the replacement of the existing waste water treatment plant

Ongoing

Gladstone

Memorial Park Redevelopment - Stage 1 Council Ongoing submitted its application for Round 3 of the RLCIP funding. The Federal Government committed the same funds that were allocated in Stage 2. Council anticipates it will receive $439,000 towards Stage 1 of Memorial Park redevelopment. Stage 1 works include pathways, lighting, family recreation area including barbecues and children's rock play adventure, irrigation, planting.

If Council is successful with its RLCIP application, a detailed plan of the work to be undertaken and will be published in Council's newsletter.

Completion times for projects such as these are contingent on a number of factors and may extend beyond the anticipated completion date. Council encourages pedestrians and motorists to pay attention to advisory signage in the vicinity of construction projects and appreciates your cooperation and patience.

* Estimated completion date only and subject to favourable weather conditions.

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

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Sporting groups receive funding boost from Council Clinic Dates for February 2011 SERVICE

VENUE

Physio-therapy Agnes Water

Community Nurse

DAYS

APPOINTMENTS

Miriam Vale

Monday, Tuesday, Please phone for Wednesday & Friday an appointment weekly (no referral necessary) February 10 & 24

Baffle Creek

February 3 & 17

Club/Association

Purpose of Grant

Amount Received

Sun Valley Park Sports Association

Clubhouse extension $57,166.00

Miriam Vale Golf Club Concrete pathways and culverts

$17,098.00

Zero-turn mower and storage shed

$19,916.00

Agnes Water

Daily

Miriam Vale

February 9

Rosedale

February 17

Miriam Vale Magpies Junior Rugby League

Turkey Beach

February 18

Meteors Sports Club

Rebuild deck

$36,995.00

Agnes Water

Wednesday and Thursday Weekly

Curtis Coast Dolphins Netball

New toilet block

$33,287.00

Miriam Vale

February 9

Gladstone Kart Club

Track re-surfacing

$15,538.00

Agnes Water

Monday –Thursday Weekly

Phone for appointment

Family Support Agnes Water Worker

Monday – Friday

Phone for appointment

Dietitian

Agnes Water

February 8

Miriam Vale

February 16

Phone for appointment

Agnes Water

February 18

Miriam Vale

February 2

Baffle Creek and Rosedale

February 16

Child Health Nurse Counselling Services

Podiatrist

Royal Flying Agnes Water Doctor Service Mobile Womens' Health Nurse

Please phone for appointment

Gladstone Regional Council has funded six projects to the tune of $180,000 through its 2010 Facility Assistance Grant Program (FAGP). The funding is to be put towards infrastructure additions and upgrades or the purchase of significant items of equipment to improve the capacity of their facilities.

The following are recipients of the FAGP grants:

By appointment

Phone for appointment

February 15 & 16

Phone for appointment

Miriam Vale

February 1

Agnes Water

February 2 & 3

Phone for appointment

Phone for an appointment – 4902 1100

New Year – new you!

We all know how much better we would feel and look losing those extra kilos we’ve been carrying around. But there are also additional benefits to your general health of losing this excess weight such as, reducing our risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

But how are you going to do this? The Discovery Coast Community Health Service (DCCHS) has a commitment to the community to support everyone to become more active and more healthy. By joining the 16 week ‘Step Up Club’, starting in February, DCCHS will provide a weekly check in, workshop and support programs from accredited health professionals to give you the best chance of achieving your goals, not just for a few weeks but for the rest of your life.

Step Up Clubs will be offered in the following communities: Turkey Beach, Bororen, Miriam Vale, Captain Creek, Agnes Water Seventeen Seventy, Baffle Creek, Lowmead and Rosedale.

If you are interested in joining your local community Step Up Club, please contact DCCHS on 4902 1100 to register.

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GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Under Council's FAGP, a minimum of $2000 is available to eligible incorporated organisations that lease, own or control sport and active recreation facilities. To be eligible applicants must provide a minimum 20 per cent financial contribution towards the project.

Council also announced the Round One recipients of the 2010/2011 Club Development Grant (CDG) program. This program offers small grants of up to $1200 to eligible incorporated organisations for projects or activities incorporating equipment purchase, training and education and participation. The CDG is split into two rounds each financial year with up to $12,500 available each round.

The following recipients were awarded funding: Club/Association

Purpose of Grant

Amount Received

Boyne Tannum Little Athletics

Junior equipment

$821.52

Calliope Catfish Swimming Club

Canteen equipment $658.91

Curtis Coast Trailriders

Radio handsets

$1200.00

Deepwater Baffle Creek Riders

Upgrade training area

$1200.00

Gladstone Australian Football Club

Purchase laptop and computer

$1154.87

Gladstone District Tennis Association

Ball machine

$1200.00

Gladstone Rugby Union

Safety and training equipment

$815.70

Meteors Sports Club

Purchase laptop

$1200.00

Sparks Hockey Club

Come & Try Day

$840.00

Wolves Soccer Club

Training equipment

$867.56

Yaralla Netball Club

Training equipment

$1181.36

For further information visit www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au or contact Council's Sports and Recreation officers on 4970 0700.

arts, culture & entertainment Creative Generation: Excellence awards in visual arts and design

Presenting an amazing diversity of artwork by secondary school students throughout Queensland, including local artist Jaimee Abbay, Creative Generation will continue until Saturday, February 26 at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum.

Creative Generation is a Department of Education and Training exhibition toured by Museum and Gallery Services Queensland.

Photograph: Street Lights by 2009 Gladstone State High School student Jaimee Abbay, part of the Creative Generation.

Calling Photographers

A photographic workshop with National Archives of Australia's (NAA) conservator Peter Shaw is on offer at the Gallery/Museum and is being held in conjunction with the NAA touring exhibition Summers Past: Golden Days in the Sun 1950-1970, which is on display throughout February.

Held 10.30am to 3pm on Saturday, February 26, the workshop will address photograph care, identification and disaster recovery and will be followed by a diagnostic clinic to identify and assess the condition of photographs brought in by participants.

Please phone the Gallery/Museum on 4976 6766 or email gragm@gladstonerc. qld.gov.au for bookings and further information.

Image caption: 1952 Miss Pacific finalists Mary Clifton, Pamela Jansen and Judy Worrad, stand in front of surfboards on Bondi Beach, Sydney.

The First Quarter: 1985 - 2010

While perusing the travelling exhibitions, be sure to check some of the works acquired locally over the last 25 years, during The First Quarter, exhibiting until Saturday, February 26, at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum.

2011 Celebrate Australia Primary School Art Competition

What do macropods, monotremes, Uluru, barbecues and beaches have in common?

They are what makes Australia great, according to our local primary school students.

Students have expressed who and what makes Australia great during the Celebrate Australia Primary School Art Competition, on exhibition at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum until February 28.

The six prize winning submissions have been reproduced as complimentary postcards, so take the time to visit the display and pick up your free postcard as a memento.

Calling Visual Artists

Join local artist and 2010 Rio Tinto Alcan Martin Hanson Memorial Art Award winner Josh Cleary for aerosol and stencilling workshops at the Boyne Tannum Community Centre on Saturday, February 12 and Sunday, February 13. Participants aged 18 and over are invited to come along to create a design and have a go at stencilling their own artwork.

Bookings are essential, please contact Josh by phoning 0407 034 500 or email joshuacleary@bigpond.com.

This workshop 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.

Intercity Images

Intercity images: Saiki and Gladstone Photographic Exchange is an annual cultural exchange celebrating Gladstone's Sister City relationship with Saiki City, Japan. Residents of the Gladstone Region are invited to submit images of the region, its community and environment, before closing Monday, April 4. Intercity Images is an initiative of the Gladstone Saiki Sister City Advisory Committee and 2011 is the ninth year of the exchange that is proudly supported by Queensland Alumina Limited and the Gladstone Regional Council.

Entry forms are available on Council's website or phone the Image Caption: Marguerita Dobrinin and Brian Farber Gallery/Museum. take a closer look during Intercity Images 2010.

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

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arts, culture & ente gladstoneregionlibraries ‘Blind Date Book’ a novel approach to reading different genres Ever been on a ‘blind date’?

Gladstone Regional Libraries has a novel way to get library-goers to step outside their comfort zone and explore a new world of books this February.

Library Lovers Day coincides with Valentines Day on February 14 and to celebrate Gladstone Regional Libraries has planned a week of activities to get residents actively reading.

Just for fun, the libraries will be lending a ‘Blind Date Book’ to borrowers who love a surprise. Books will be chosen at random by staff, wrapped in brown paper and be offered to borrowers who are willing to venture outside their favourite reading genre.

Readers will be encouraged to provide their thoughts on reading their ‘Blind Date Book’.

During the week-long celebrations, there will also be displays featuring books all about love, including modern romance, classic tales of love, great love letters, great love stories and great DVDs. For the young and young at heart, there will be bookmarks and other treats as giveaways.

In addition, borrowers will be invited to take part in a competition from February 1 where they will be asked for the best and worst pick-up lines they’ve heard.

The winner will be announced during Library Lovers Week.

hereinhistory

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MARTIN HANSON M.L.A (2.7.1923-20.2.1976) Martin Hanson was born in Charters Towers in 1923 and grew up with his brother Kevin in the Grand Hotel Gladstone which their parents Martin and Margaret purchased in 1928. Marty attended Nudgee College Brisbane where he captained the school and the unbeaten 1941 First 15 rugby team. His university dentistry studies were interrupted in 1942 when he enlisted in the RAAF serving at Air Defence Headquarters, Port Moresby, New Guinea.

Postwar Marty returned to Gladstone to assist his ailing Father run the Grand Hotel. He quickly became an active community member being elected by the Gladstone community to serve on the Gladstone Harbour Board in 1945 at the young age of 22.

In 1948, Martin was elected by the Board to the position of Chairman, the youngest Chairman of any Harbour Authority in Australia.

His visionary Chairmanship Martin Hanson (MLA) [1949-1958] led the Port presents a Port Curtis Sailing Club life of Gladstone to commence membership certificate and Queensland’s first bulk coal trade badge to Jack Mortensen in 1954 and to seek Japanese in 1972. Photo courtesy buyers for Central Queensalnd’s Jack Mortensen.

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Library Assistant Sandra Butler is looking forward to Library Lovers Day and the range of activities, including the ‘Blind Date Book’, that will be on offer from February 14 for a week.

coal. As Deputy Chairman, in 1959, he recommended ‘the purchase of South Trees Island in order to provide land access to deep water which would become a valuable bargaining tool in attracting Comalco’ to establish QAL in Gladstone..

Martin married Mary Hanlon, daughter of QLD Labor Premier, Ned Hanlon [1946-1952] in 1951.They were blessed with six children, three boys and three girls.

From 1963 until his untimely death in 1976, Marty served the Port Curtis community as its popular Labor member of the QLD Legislature. His dedication to the economic development of the Gladstone Region and his unswerving commitment to social justice was soundly rewarded at the ballot box winning three of his five elections with over 80percent of the primary vote.

Following Marty’s death in 1976 the Gladstone Artist Club honoured its former patron by establishing the annual Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards and Exhibition. This annual event which is now administered by the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum, remains the highlight of the Gladstone art calendar.

In the 1970’s,the Gladstone Council also honoured Martin’s commitment to the progress and prosperity of the economic and social fabric of Gladstone by naming Hanson Road, an important arterial road connecting the Gladstone community to the growing industrial precinct of this port city.

References-John Kerr, Going in Deep – Lorna McDonald, Gladstone: City that waited; Gladstone Harbour Board papers.

ertainment entertainment centre Akmal in ‘The Life Of Akmal’

Comedic genius Akmal is bringing his new show ‘The Life of Akmal’ to Gladstone Entertainment Centre for one night only. Giggle over Akmals’ childhood memories from growing up in Egypt, migrating to Australia, being kicked out of the Coptic Orthodox Church to finding solace in his new found religion, Comedy. (Age restriction of 15 years applies).

Tuesday, February 15, 8pm

Morning Melodies: A Life on Earth

A Life on Earth, starring Peter Cousens, is a snapshot of thoughts and feelings expressed through song looking back on his career. Enjoy wonderful moments from the great musicals brought to life by the man who has lived them all, such as ‘Les Miserable’, ‘Aspects of Love’, ‘West Side Story’, ‘Chicago’, ‘Camelot’, ‘Guys and Dolls’ and ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. Morning Melodies is a lovely opportunity for seniors to enjoy an entertaining live performance at an affordable price.

Guests are provided with a complimentary morning tea from 10am with the performance starting at 11am.

Tuesday, February 22, 11am

The Agnes Water Blues & Roots Festival

The Agnes Water Blues and Roots Festival tickets are on sale now. This hit event will be held at the Agnes Water SES Grounds. While the full line up can’t be revealed just yet, confirmed acts include Jon Stevens (Noiseworks & INXS), Phil Emmanuel, The Thunderbirds, Los Cobras, Doug Edwards, Patrick Kehoe and many more. Log on to www. agnesbluesandroots.com.au for all the latest updates or get them delivered directly to your inbox by registering at gecmarketing@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au.

Friday, February 25 to Sunday, February 27

Kasey Chambers ‘Little Bird Tour’

Premier Artists and Essence Music are proud to present Kasey Chambers Little Bird tour.

Kasey’s fifth solo album, ‘Little Bird’, was released in September 2010.

The album was recorded with all-star band The Millionaires; John Watson on drums, Jeff McCormack on bass, with her husband Shane Nicholson, Jim Moginie (Midnight Oil) and Kasey’s dad Bill Chambers playing all manner of guitars and stringed instruments. As well as performing the gorgeous new songs from ‘Little Bird’, Kasey will also perform classic hits from her previous four solo recordings plus songs from her ARIA and multi Golden Guitar winning collaboration with her husband Shane Nicholson ‘Rattlin Bones’.

Wednesday, March 2, 8pm

Combined School Musical ‘HONK!’

After winging its way around the world since 1933 this production, with a message for children and adults that being different is okay, is set to hatch in Gladstone. Honk! is the story of Ugly, whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbours. Separated from the farm and pursued by a hungry Cat, Ugly must find his way home. Along his rollicking and harrowing journey he not only discovers his true beauty and glorious destiny, but also finds love and acceptance in all its forms.

Monday, March 14 to Sunday, March 19

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

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Contacting Council Main Phone: 4970 0700 Main Fax: 4975 8500 Gladstone Office

101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Qld 4680 PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Calliope Office

5 Don Cameron Drive, Calliope Qld 4680 PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au

Miriam Vale Office

36 Roe Street, Miriam Vale Qld 4677 PO Box 29, Gladstone DC Qld 4680 Email: info@gladstonerc.qld.gov.au Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum Cnr Goondoon & Bramston Sts Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4976 6766 Gladstone Entertainment Centre 58 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4972 2822 Community Advisory Service 142 Goondoon St, Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4976 6300 Discovery Coast Community Health Service Rafting Ground Road, Agnes Water 4677 Telephone: (07) 4902 1100 Discovery Coast Community Care 36 Roe Street, Miriam Vale 4677 Telephone: (07) 4974 6288 Tondoon Botanic Gardens Glenlyon Road, Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4971 4444 Boyne Tannum Community Centre & Library Cnr Wyndham and Hayes Ave, Boyne Island Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4973 7723 Mt Larcom Rural Transaction Centre/ Library 47 Raglan St, Mount Larcom Qld 4695 Telephone: (07) 4975 1205 Gladstone Aquatic Centre 60 Tank Street, Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4972 6822 Calliope Pool Stirrat Street, Phone: (07) 4975 6455 Mount Larcom Pool Narrows Road, Phone: (07) 4975 1185 Agnes Water Rural Transaction Centre 3 Captain Cook Drive, Agnes Water Qld 4677 Telephone: (07) 4902 1515 Agnes Water Library 3 Captain Cook Drive, Agnes Water Qld 4677 Telephone (07) 4902 1501 Gladstone City Library 39 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4976 6400 Calliope Library 5 Don Cameron Drive, Calliope Qld 4680 Telephone: (07) 4975 8105 Miriam Vale Library 34 Roe Street, Miriam Vale Qld 4677 Telephone: (07) 4974 6241

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World's Biggest Playgroup Day

To help celebrate and promote the value of playgroup, join in the World's Biggest Playgroup, hosted by the Gladstone Region Communities for Children, on March 23, from 9.30am to noon at Gladstone Marina.

This year's theme is 'Learning Together Through Play' On a Farm Day. Council's Community Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Maxine Brushe said the World's Biggest Playgroup Day was celebrated in the Gladstone Region with a free community event annually.

"The event alternates each year between the Gladstone Marina playgrounds and Tannum Sands Millennium Esplanade," Cr Brushe said.

"This year there are lots of farm-themed

t’s On WhinaFebruary?

Date

What’s On

activities planned which are designed to stimulate understanding through play and provide fun for both the parents and children."

You do not need to belong to a Playgroup to attend and enjoy the free activities near the first playground over the marina bridge.

For more information or if you would like to be involved in National Playgroup Week or the World's Biggest Playgroup Day contact Debbie on 4976 6356 or C4Cinfo@gladstonerc.qld. gov.au

Council’s Community Calendar

Event Description

Every Story Time Wednesday

Story Time and Crafts for children aged zero to five years is held at Gladstone City Library every Wednesday from 11am to 11.30am. No bookings required.

Every Friday

Story Time

Story Time and Crafts for children aged zero to five years is held at Boyne Island City Library every Friday from 10.30am to 11.30am. No bookings required.

Every Monday to Friday

Happy Hour

Old age pensioners (over 60s) are invited to attend Happy Hour at Gladstone Aquatic Centre for free access to the pool between 8.00am and 9.00am. Phone 4972 6822 for more information.

February 1st & 15th

General Council Meeting

Community members are welcome to attend Council’s General Meetings held at the Gladstone Administration Centre, 101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone from 9am.

February 19th

Councillor Between 9am and 12noon, Councillors will be on hand to discuss any issues, topics or concerns that Community Awareness Sessions residents may have at Stockland Gladstone.

February

Library Square Performances

Don’t miss the free live musical performances on every Friday and Saturday night between 6.00pm and 8.00pm at Library Square, Goondoon Street. Phone 4972 2822 for more information on how you can perform at the square.

Council numbers and information After hours emergency number 4979 1134.

Residents who incur STD call rates in contacting Council, can phone 1300 733 343 at a cost of local call rates.

Correspondence Residents are asked to direct all correspondence to the Chief Executive Officer, PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680.

Customer service Council is committed to providing you with timely, efficient and consistent service. Our customer service charter details the service standards that Council aims to meet. The charter

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

can be accessed from Council’s website.

Council meetings Council meetings are held every first and third Tuesday of the month from 9am at the Gladstone Council Chambers, 101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone. A list of agenda items is available from Council’s website from 5pm the Friday prior to each meeting. Meeting minutes are also available from the website.

• Airport Hotline: 1300 419 991 • Planning Scheme Hotline: 1300 621 922 www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au