Gazette
ISSUE 6, 2020
3
Meet the Golden Plains Shire Councillors 2020-2024
7
New Cricket Facility at Linton
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Road and Bridge Projects for Golden Plains
COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS NEWS
From the Mayor It’s an honour to have been elected as Mayor of Golden Plains Shire for 2020-21, the first year of our new Council term, and I would like to thank my fellow Councillors for the support they have extended to me and to Deputy Mayor Cr Ian Getsom. Now that the election has passed, we have been busy completing the Councillor Induction program as we look forward to an exciting and productive year ahead. We thank the Golden Plains residents for the faith they have placed in us and we will work together to serve them well as Councillors.
Under the banner of our Council Vision 2040 and its themes of Community, Liveability, Prosperity and Sustainability, we will be developing the Council Plan 2021-2025 early next year. This four-year plan will direct the work and investment of this Council and we encourage every resident to have their say on their priorities for Golden Plains Shire. Finally, as the Council term begins, a year that we will always remember is coming to a close. On behalf of the Councillors, I wish all residents a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. Our Council group looks forward to a busy and successful 2021, working hard for the people of Golden Plains. Cr Helena Kirby - Mayor of Golden Plains Shire Council
Stay Fire Ready After the devastation of bushfires last year, everyone has an important responsibility to help reduce the risk of fire to their own property and the entire community, keeping Golden Plains Shire safe this fire season. For more information about fire preparation and prevention, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/fire
Keep Safe This Fire Season If you are in a high-risk bushfire area, make sure you know what to do, and when and where to go, on hot, dry and windy days. It could make all the difference to you and your family. To keep your family safe, remember to confirm your emergency plan, review and restock your emergency kit, and take a few minutes to share your plans with any holiday visitors you may have staying with you.
issued to non-compliant properties, significantly less than last year’s 493 notices and we thank property owners for taking fire preparations seriously. Landowners who received a notice are required to complete specified works by early December; or risk a $1,652 fine and Council organising a contractor to complete the works at the owner’s expense. Thank you to the thousands of Golden Plains Shire residents who have prepared their properties for the fire season. Please ensure you keep your property in the same condition throughout the Fire Danger Period and if you go away for holidays, make plans for a neighbor or friend to monitor your property.
Schedule 13 Permits During the Fire Danger Period, you are not permitted to burn off on your property without a Schedule 13 Permit. To apply for a permit, residents need to contact their local CFA district to request and submit a permit application.
Be Prepared. Stay Prepared.
Council Fire Prevention
Owners of land in Golden Plains Shire are required to keep long grass on their properties cut so that it is no higher than 100mm during the Fire Danger Period. On properties more than two hectares, landowners are required to keep grass below a maximum of 100mm up to a minimum of 20 metres from a house or outbuilding. Under State Government legislation, Council must conduct fire hazard inspections of private property. Inspections started in November, and a total of 249 Fire Prevention Notices were
In mid-October, Council began its own fire prevention works, commencing the annual roadside slashing program of all sealed roads and strategic fire breaks to reduce fuel loads. Council also conducts burning of selected reserves to remove fire hazards and, with additional Working for Victoria program staff, has undertaken fire hazard, fuel reduction and litter collection works. This program commences in the drier south of the Shire before moving north, with the program to be completed by Christmas.
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COUNCIL NEWS
The Golden Plains Shire Council 2020-2024
The Golden Plains Shire Councillors 2020-2024 (Left to Right):Clayton Whitfield, Helena Kirby, Brett Cunningham, Owen Sharkey, Gavin Gamble, Les Rowe and Ian Getsom.
Golden Plains Shire Council’s new Councillor group for the 2020-2024 term were officially sworn in at the Oath/Affirmation of Office ceremony on Saturday 14 November, 2020. The Councillors who will represent Golden Plains Shire for the 2020-2024 term are: Brett Cunningham, Gavin Gamble, Ian Getsom, Helena Kirby, Les Rowe, Owen Sharkey and Clayton Whitfield. On Tuesday 17 November, the Councillors elected Cr Helena Kirby as Mayor and Cr Ian Getsom as Deputy Mayor for 2020-21.
Council Meetings 2021 Residents and members of the public are welcome to attend meetings of Council which are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6pm, with the exception of the meeting on the third Tuesday in January and December. In 2021, Council Meetings will be held on the following Tuesdays: 19 January, 23 February, 23 March, 27 April, 25 May, 22 June, 27 July, 24 August, 28 September, 26 October, 23 November and 21 December. There is also
a Council Meeting (Budget Submissions) on 8 June and a Council Meeting (Mayoral Election) on 16 November. Due to COVID restrictions, the meetings in January, February, March and April, 2021 will be held at the Golden Plains Civic Centre, 2 Pope St, Bannockburn and closed to public attendance. The location and attendance of meetings from May onwards will be determined and communicated later in the year. All meetings of Council are livestreamed on Council’s YouTube channel. For a direct link, visit Council’s website or social media on the day of the meeting, with a recording available on Council’s website following the meeting. Any person can ask a maximum of two questions of Council during a 30-minute Question Time and all questions must be lodged by 10am on the day of the meeting by email, Council’s website or hand delivered to Council offices. To lodge a question, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/local-laws The meeting agenda is available on Council’s website on the Friday prior to the meeting. For agendas and more information, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au
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COUNCIL NEWS
Meet Your Golden Plains Shire Councillors Seven local residents have been elected to serve as Golden Plains Shire Councillors for the 2020-2024 term. Mayor Cr Helena Kirby
Email: cr.hkirby@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0436 599 856
Mayor Cr Helena Kirby has lived in Rokewood for 30 years and with her family, she owns and operates the Rokewood Take Away store. Serving her fourth consecutive term as a Councillor, she was elected Mayor for 2020-21, a role she previously held in 2017-18. Cr Kirby is passionate about ensuring equity of services in the Shire’s small towns, community consultation and engagement, and community planning. During the Council term, she is focused on economic development, activating community spaces including local halls and playgrounds, and protecting the rural lifestyle of Golden Plains Shire. In her role as Mayor, Cr Kirby serves on the Audit & Risk Committee, G21 Board of Directors, Central Highlands Councils Victoria and the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Engagement Committee. Cr Kirby is also Council’s representative on the Peri Urban Group of Rural Councils, Golden Plains Disability Access & Inclusion Committee and Rural Financial Counselling Service – Colac Local Reference Group.
Deputy Mayor Cr Ian Getsom
Email: cr.igetsom@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0437 760 451
Cr Ian Getsom is a long-term Piggoreet resident, living on a rural property farmed by his sons. He has volunteered for almost 40 years with the CFA and is the President of the Happy Valley community hall. With a career in transport, he worked as a train controller during his 15 years on Victorian railways and now drives school and charter bus runs in the north of the Shire. Cr Getsom prides himself on being an approachable Councillor and looks forward to building strong working relationships with the Council staff. He is passionate about boosting services across the many townships of the Shire and improving the vitality of its villages. Cr Getsom is a Community Services Portfolio Councillor and is Deputy Mayor for 2020-21. He is also Council’s representative on Timber Towns, Ballarat Regional Landfill Monitoring Committee and the G21 Transport Pillar.
Cr Brett Cunningham
Email: cr.bcunningham@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0437 661 423
A resident of Bannockburn and formerly Teesdale, Cr Brett Cunningham has professional experience in marketing, corporate services and stakeholder relations roles. He is the chairperson of Bannockburn & District Grants and the Bannockburn and Surrounds Neighbourhood Watch. Cr Cunningham is dedicated to strengthening confidence in Council and building community support through transparency and engagement. He is focused on developing youth and mental health services, greater road funding and improved facility maintenance. Cr Cunningham is a Corporate Service Portfolio Councillor and a member of Council’s Audit and Risk Committee. He is Council’s representative on the Tourism Greater Geelong and Bellarine Board, the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Financial Assistance Grants and Rate Capping Taskforce, and the G21 Economic Development, Health and Wellbeing, and Sport and Recreation Pillars.
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COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS Cr Clayton Whitfield
Email: cr.cwhitfield@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0400 438 334
Cr. Clayton Whitfield has lived in Inverleigh for the past 14 years and brings managerial skills and statutory knowledge from his experience in the domestic building sector, as a Trade Section Commander in the Army, a vocational educator at The Gordon, and a building consultant. Cr. Whitfield is passionate about improving Council’s asset maintenance and budget efficiency, supporting youth in rural areas and community consultation. He sees balancing the Shire’s population growth while maintaining rural appeal as an important challenge for Council. Cr. Whitfield is an Infrastructure and Development Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Emergency Management Committee and the G21 Planning and Services Pillar.
Cr Owen Sharkey
Email: cr.osharkey@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0418 694 716
Cr Owen Sharkey is a resident of Batesford who brings career experience from the construction and housing industry to his role in Council. Elected to serve his second term as a Councillor, Cr Sharkey was Mayor of Golden Plains Shire in 2018-19 and 2019-20. Cr Sharkey is dedicated to supporting local youth, cultural diversity and business development, with a focus on recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. His priorities for Council include maintaining strong regional partnerships, highlighting the challenges for peri urban municipalities and advocating for an improved rating structure. Cr Sharkey is a Community Services Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on to the Municipal Association of Victoria and its Human Service Committee, as well as the Geelong Regional Library Corporation Board.
Cr Les Rowe
Email: cr.lrowe@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0437 290 595
Cr Les Rowe is a life-long resident of Sutherlands Creek, where he and his family farm properties in the Moorabool Valley, near the land his ancestors settled more than 160 years ago. Cr Rowe is a strong advocate for the local agricultural industry and rural communities. Serving his second term as a Councillor, he is dedicated to improving the local road and bridge network, community consultation, supporting local businesses and job creation, and Council delivering on the Community Vision 2040. Cr Rowe is a Corporate Services Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on the Geelong Heritage Centre Collection Advisory Committee, Golden Plain Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee and the G21 Education & Training and Arts, Heritage & Culture Pillars.
Cr Gavin Gamble
Email: cr.ggamble@gplains.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0437 187 542
As a Teesdale local of 18 years, Cr Gavin Gamble has a long history of active community involvement in the Shire, including as a Community Coordinator and Cub Scout leader, on Friends groups and the Turtle Bend Committee of Management, and with sporting clubs. He has professional experience as a school teacher, brewer and now operates his own gardening business across Golden Plains Shire. Cr Gamble is a member of the Australian Greens and is passionate about pursuing action to address climate change, protecting the Shire’s unique biodiversity, responsible development and township enhancements, provision of greater transport and recreational options, and support for cultural and wellbeing initiatives. Cr Gamble is an Infrastructure and Development Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on the Grampians Central West Waste and Resource Recovery Group, the G21 Environment Pillar and the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee and Environment Committee. ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 5
COMMUNITY NEWS
Grants for Local Community Projects Seventeen Golden Plains community groups have been awarded Community Strengthening Grants by Council, to deliver an exciting range of community projects and programs across the Shire. In the second round of this year’s grants program, Council awarded a combined $71,928 to the successful groups for projects across four categories: Healthy Active Living; Creative Community; Environment and Sustainability; and Community Safety. These grants will support a variety of programs, including building community facilities, enhancing the biodiversity
in local reserves, and helping local residents purchase a solar or battery system for their home. Council’s $71,928 contribution will leverage another $204,560 in value for the community and provide a return of $2.80 for every $1 invested by Council. As with the first round announced in July, Councillors read out a short statement on each of the successful projects at the November Council Meeting, instead of the in-person community event, which not held due to COVID-19 restrictions. In its 25th year, Council revised its successful community grants program and in the first round of this year’s grants program, 16 groups shared in $74,284 of funding.
The recipients of the second round of Council’s 2020 Community Strengthening Grants are: Healthy Active Living Grants Meredith Cricket Club
Updating the Cricket Nets
$2,500
Woady Yaloak Athletics Club
Haddon Seating Enhancement Project
$1,980
Rokewood Kindergarten
Outdoor Blinds Project
$2,717
Bannockburn and District Netball Association
Community Sports Grandstand
$10,000
Hands of Change Meredith
Meredith Community Garden
$5,000
Maude Recreation Reserve Committee of Management
Maude Recreation Reserve Cricket Nets
$3,243
Mannibadar Hall Committee
Mannibadar Soldier Settlement Centenary
$5,610
Linton Cemetery Trust
Chinese Memorial Plaque and Landscaping
$2,500
Creative Community Grants
Environment and Sustainability Grants Garibaldi Landcare Group
Hardies Hill Reserve Wetlands Restoration
$4,000
Inverleigh Golf Club
Inverleigh Golf Club Watering Project
$8,600
Linton and District Progress Association
Enhancing Edinburgh Reserve’s Biodiversity
$1,300
Yarrowee Leigh Catchment Group
Replacement of Landcare Tree Planting Tools
$1,256
Batesford Fyansford Stonehaven Landcare
Enhancing Red Gum Reserve’s Biodiversity
$2,087
Bannockburn Community Planning Group
Milton Street Arbour
$8,000
Geelong Sustainability Group
Community Solar Bulk Buy
$8,000
Life Saving Victoria
Sink or Swim Aquatic Safety and First Aid Online
$4,385
Bannockburn & District Men’s Shed
Security Alarm System
$750
Community Safety Grants
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COMMUNITY NEWS
New Cricket Facility at Linton Michaela Settle MP, Member for Buninyong, and Mayor Cr Helena Kirby (back row) celebrated the announcement of the new cricket training facility with Linton Cricket Club members, (front, left to right) Claire Keefe, Hunter McDonald, Liam Kerr and Rory Kerr.
Linton cricket players were bowled over by the recent announcement of a new cricket training facility to be built at Linton Recreation Reserve. On 20 November, Mayor Cr Helena Kirby and members of the Linton Cricket Club joined Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle MP at the Reserve for the announcement of the partnership of the Victorian Government and Council to deliver this $202,500 project. The Victorian Government will contribute $100,000 from its 2019-2020 Community Cricket Program – Community Facilities Fund, with Council investing $72,500 and also securing an additional grant from the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund for $30,000. The Linton Cricket Club has active junior and senior cricket teams participating in the Grenville Cricket Association, as well as running an under 8’s skill development program. The installation of the new three-bay training facility at Linton will: • Increase capacity for more training times and non-structured training opportunities for the Linton community; • Deliver increased skill development due to the availability of a usable facility and an additional net; • Create opportunities for the Linton Cricket Club to encourage new users and new programs including female teams; • Increase club participation due to beginner level skill development with the hope of attracting further female participants; and • Provide a safe training facility for the club and community. Construction of the cricket training facility including three new cricket nets and associated fencing will begin early next year following the current cricket season.
Delivering at the Linton Recreation Reserve The Linton Recreation Reserve has received significant upgrades over the past years – and there’s most exciting projects in 2021. Last year, the new lights on the oval were switched on for the Linton football teams and the new female friendly change rooms delivered for the Linton netball teams. This year, the pavilion and grandstand have been painted in the club colours and Linton Cricket Club will enjoy the new hard cricket wicket. In 2021, a significant upgrade of the playground at the Reserve will be completed, along with the new cricket training facility ready for 2021-22 cricket season.
Howzat! Cricket continues to be one of the most popular sports in Golden Plains Shire, with many local clubs listing senior and junior teams of male and female players. Last year, Council delivered new hard cricket wickets at the Linton Recreation Reserve, Rokewood Recreation Reserve and Inverleigh Sporting Complex. In 2021, along with the new cricket facility in Linton, Council is delivering the Lethbridge Cricket Net Upgrade, funded by $145,000 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. Council also awarded two Community Strengthening Grants of $2,500 to the Meredith Cricket Club to upgrade its cricket nets and $3,242 for cricket nets at the Maude Recreation Reserve. ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 7
COMMUNITY ROADS AND BRIDGES NEWS
In the Works: New Bridges Council has a busy schedule of significant road and bridge projects in 2020-21, improving road safety in Meredith, Rokewood, Napoleons, Shelford, Mt Mercer and Sutherlands Creek. Slate Quarry Road Bridge A new $2.3 million Slate Quarry Road Bridge will be built in Meredith, funded by $1.15 million from Council and $1.15 million from the Federal Government’s Bridge Renewal Program. Slate Quarry Road in Meredith is the major link between two arterial roads: Midland Highway and Geelong-Ballan Road. The existing bridge is currently load limited to 15 tonne on a road network that connects many local businesses. The new unrestricted bridge will eliminate a 20km detour for an estimated 25 heavy vehicles per day, equating to 130,000km saved each year. With bushland to the northeast of Meredith, the new unrestricted bridge will provide emergency services access to this important route for response vehicles, significantly reducing travel times in emergencies. Construction will begin in early 2021 with the new Slate Quarry Road Bridge to open in mid to late 2021.
Geggies Road Bridge A new $700,000 Geggies Road Bridge in Rokewood will be constructed with $350,000 from Council and $350,000 from the Federal Government’s Bridge Renewal Program. The $700,000 new unlimited bridge will benefit approximately 30 primarily farming and grazing properties, allowing light and heavy vehicles full access to these important work sites. The existing 2.5 tonne load-limited Geggies Road Bridge in Rokewood currently prohibits future expansion of existing livestock businesses in the nearby area. Families who use the local school bus will also benefit, with the new bridge to cut out the current 10km daily detour to avoid the existing old bridge. Construction will begin in early 2021 with the new Geggies Road Bridge to open in mid to late 2021.
Reserve Road Bridge A new unrestricted double lane concrete bridge will replace the existing aged, load-limited single lane Reserve Road Bridge in Rokewood. The new Reserve Road Bridge will allow heavier and oversize farm machinery and vehicles to travel across the Kuruc A Ruc Creek at this location. With a 100-year design life, the new bridge project was identified in Councils 10-year replacement program.
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The $393,583 bridge is fully funded by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program – Round 1, and construction will be completed by mid-2021.
Construction of the Franklin Bridge.
Franklin Bridge Works on the new Franklin Bridge in Napoleons are almost complete, with the opening scheduled for December 2020. The new $2.85 million bridge is a partnership project with a $512,000 contribution from Council and the remaining funding from City of Ballarat and the Federal Government. City of Ballarat has managed the construction of the project.
Road Projects in Golden Plains Construction will soon begin on the following road projects: Meredith-Shelford Road Works to widen 2.2km of Meredith-Shelford Road from Henderson’s Road to Lower Plains Road. The project is fully funded by the Federal Government’s Road to Recovery Program.
Shelford-Mt Mercer Road Works to widen and seal 3.5kms of Shelford-Mt Mercer Road from Grahams Road to Rices Road, with guard rails installed. This project is fully funded by the Federal Government’s 2020-21 Black Spot Program.
Russells Bridge Road Works along 2km section near Parker Road at Russells Bridge to reduce speed limit to 60km/h, and install additional chevron alignment markers, raised reflective pavement markers and guide posts. A barrier and guard rail will also be installed. This project is fully funded by the Federal Government’s 2020-21 Black Spot Program.
ROAD AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS
New Road and Community Projects for 2021 Upgraded playground in the north, a new bridge replacement project in the centre, and an improved cricket net facility in the south – these are some of the infrastructure projects that have been brought forward to be delivered in Golden Plains Shire next year, thanks to further investment from the Federal Government.
In early October, the Federal Government announced Council would receive an additional $1,512,680 from its Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. The program is part of the Federal Government’s COVID-19 response to help local councils support jobs and businesses by delivering more shovel-ready projects by 31 December 2021. In November, Council endorsed allocating this funding to seven valuable road and community infrastructure projects to be completed by the end of next year:
Replace guardrails at various locations: $200,000
Upgrade Enfield Playground: $250,000
Garibaldi intersection upgrade: $250,000
This project will fund the replacement and installation of new guardrails on a number of bridges across the Shire, including in Rokewood, Happy Valley, Werneth, Meredith, Haddon, Inverleigh, Piggoreet and Linton.
Council’s 10-year Play Space Strategy identified several playgrounds requiring renewal to improve safety and increase the play value of the sites. In line with the strategy, this funding adds the Enfield playground to next year’s upgrade list.
The Buninyong – Mt Mercer/Hardies Hill intersection has been identified as requiring an upgrade on a blind curve and de-acceleration lane. Design work on the upgrade has already commenced, and this funding will complete the project.
Berringa intersection upgrade: $250,000
Bannockburn Skate Park upgrade: $99,900
With multiple road approaches, this project will fund the upgrade of the intersection of Derwents Jacks Road/ Snow Gum Road/Reef Road/Chromes Road in Berringa to improve safety. As with the Garibaldi intersection upgrade, design work has already commenced.
This project will rejuvenate and upgrade the Bannockburn Skate Park and address public safety and security issues at the site and in the wider precinct. This $99,900 funding from the second round of LRCI program will fund lighting, landscaping, artwork, rubbish bins and project management works, following Council previously receiving $100,000 from the first round of the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, and a $250,000 grant from the Victorian Government’s Community Crime Prevention Program.
Paddys Gully Road Bridge Replacement, Rokewood Junction: $318,680
Lethbridge Cricket Net Upgrade: $145,000 The $145,000 project, including design, construction and project management costs, will deliver an upgraded cricket net at the Lethbridge Recreation Reserve.
Building Across the Shire If the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure funding sounds familiar, that’s because Council received $1.33 million from the first round of the program earlier this year.
The ageing single span timber bridge is currently limited to 10 tonnes and is in poor condition. The $318,680 will go towards the $650,000 replacement project and will require Council to allocate the remaining funding in its 2021-22 budget.
To stay up-to-date with the construction and delivery of these projects, read Council’s news stories at goldenplains.vic.gov.au or follow Golden Plains Shire Council on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
These funded projects are on track to be delivered by 30 June 2021: • • • • • •
Replacement of Reserve Road Bridge, Rokewood Maude Recreation Reserve/Lookout water supply Playground renewals in Dereel, Linton, Garibaldi and Haddon Inverleigh Female Friendly Change Rooms Bannockburn Skate Park Upgrade Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub in Bannockburn
With our fast population growth, Council is proactive in lobbying for Government investment in our Shire, and is looking forward to completing and opening these projects next year. ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 9
YOUTH PROJECTS
Supporting Our Young People Council is pleased to deliver two new projects for young people, located in the growing south near the Shire’s only high school and welcoming youth from across Golden Plains.
The Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub Bannockburn Skate Park Upgrade Council welcomes the recent announcement that the Victorian Government will contribute $271,032 towards the Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub project.
A $449,900 upgrade will significantly improve safety and skate elements at the Bannockburn Skate Park in 2021.
The $562,000 Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub project will see the redevelopment and relocation of a Council portable office into a vibrant facility that will provide inclusive, innovative and accessible programs and services for young people in a growing community. Located at the Bannockburn Recreation Precinct, opposite the Shire’s only high school, Bannockburn College P-12, the Youth Hub will support improved health, social, education and employability outcomes, and provide stronger connections between the local community and services young people need. The Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub is a partnership projects, supported by $271,032 from the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. In June, the Victorian Government added Golden Plains Shire Council and the five other members of the Peri Urban Group of Rural Councils (PUGRC) to the Growing Suburbs Fund. The fund was established by the Victorian Government in 2015 to fund community infrastructure projects in 10 fast-growing council areas of Melbourne. In addition, Council received a significant local contribution from Bannockburn & District Connected Communities and $100,000 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program. Council has also made a $90,720 in-kind contribution of the portable structure, which will be relocated from its Bannockburn office to serve as the new youth hub. The portable building previously housed Council staff who have moved into the Golden Plains Civic Centre, and is the second office portable to be repurposed from the site, following the transformation of the first into female friendly change rooms at Linton Recreation Reserve last year.
Bannockburn Skate Park.
The project will rejuvenate and upgrade the Bannockburn Skate Park and address public safety and security issues at the site and in the wider precinct. The project will incorporate a safe, accessible and modern design to maximise site usability and ownership, while supporting local economic activity. New skate elements including ramps and jumps will be installed, as well as a shade shelter, drinking fountain, rock bollards, bicycle locking stands, bag storage and safety signage. Resurfacing of the existing concrete slab, with landscaping and electrical works will also be included as part of the project, as well as new lighting, landscaping, artwork and rubbish bins. The Bannockburn Skate Park upgrade is funded by $250,000 from the Victorian Government’s Community Safety Infrastructure Grants program and $199,900 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. In 2019, Council was pleased to open the upgraded Smythesdale Skate Park in the north of the Shire, which was a partnership project between Council and the Victorian Government.
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SPORT AND ACTIVE RECREATION
Building for the Community Two popular local sport and recreation reserves will receive significant upgrades in 2021, following the confirmation of funding grants in August 2020.
Inverleigh Change Rooms Upgrade Construction will start on the Inverleigh Change Room Upgrade project in 2021. The $1,777,000 upgrade of Inverleigh Sporting Complex will deliver two new female friendly/ unisex change rooms and umpire change rooms with supporting amenities, including first aid and storage spaces. Two existing change rooms will also be refurbished and a new septic system installed as part of this extensive project. Home to the Inverleigh Football and Netball Club (the Hawks) and the Inverleigh Cricket Club (the Kookaburras), the new and refurbished change rooms will support greater participation in sport and active recreation in Inverleigh. Players from visiting local teams will also enjoy the upgraded facilities at the Inverleigh Sporting Complex.
Bannockburn Soccer Facility The Bannockburn Soccer Facility will have new change rooms and lights in 2021. The $1,296,535 Bannockburn Soccer Facility Change Rooms Project will deliver two new female friendly/ unisex change rooms with a referee change room, first aid room and dedicated storage area to service the recently constructed second soccer pitch. The project also includes Football Federation Victoria night match compliant sports lighting on the second pitch and perimeter fencing. Home to the Golden Plains Soccer Club (the Eagles) with male and female senior and junior players from many towns in the Shire, the completion of this project will support greater use of the second pitch at the facility and increase participation in sport and active recreation in Golden Plains Shire.
The Victorian Government has contributed $1.52 million from its Community Sport Infrastructure Stimulus Program to the change rooms. To complete the project, Council has allocated $177,700 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the Inverleigh Sporting Complex Committee of Management and the Inverleigh Football and Netball Club also contributed $72,000 to the project. The new change rooms will add to the upgrade of the social rooms that have been fully funded by $500,000 from the Federal Government. The Inverleigh Football & Netball Club advocated to the Federal Government for the upgrade of the social rooms which will cater for increased activity at the Inverleigh Sporting Complex, fuelled by the lighting upgrade delivered at the site early last year. The new change and social rooms join an impressive list of works that have been completed at the Inverleigh Sporting Complex in the past few years including the brand new netball courts, the oval lighting upgrade and new cricket nets.
To deliver the projects, the Victorian Government has invested $464,535 from its World Facilities Game Fund, following the successful grant application from Council. This contribution partners with the Federal Government’s $832,000 election commitment to deliver the full project. The second pitch change rooms and lights completes the soccer infrastructure projects in Stage Two of the Bannockburn Recreation precinct masterplan. Along with the Bannockburn Soccer Pavilion built in 2017 and the lights and work on the first pitch in 2014, this reserve has received more than $3 million in funding over the past six years and been transformed into a quality sporting facility for local soccer players and supporters.
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SUSTAINABILITY & ENVIRONMENT
Sharing the Shire with Snakes In Golden Plains Shire, we live side-by-side with a large snake population and particularly in the summertime, it’s important to be alert and have a snake plan. As part of your snake plan: • Have local snake catchers’ contact details in your phone; • Cover all holes leading to your house and garage; • Maintain a tidy garden; • Block cavities in wall structures; • Place rodent bait around your house yearly to deter rodents from attracting snakes; and • Keep your chicken pen tidy and place mesh around it. Remember, it is against the law to kill snakes. Fortunately, there are professionals that are highly skilled in catching snakes. If you come across a snake, stay calm and move out of harm’s way before calling your local snake catcher.
Local Landcare beating Rabbits The Maude and District Landcare Group and Batesford, Fyansford, Stonehaven Landcare Group are running their annual community rabbit baiting programs in early February 2021. These programs supply pindone-baited carrots to landholders along with expert advice on the best practices for rabbit baiting to maximise the effectiveness of the program. The program involves collecting carrot baits from Landcare on three separate days (two free feeds and one baited feed). To participate in these programs, contact: Maude and District Landcare Group maudeanddistrictlandcare@gmail.com Batesford, Fyansford, Stonehaven Landcare Group - info@bfslandcare.org 12 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
Gorse Control and the VGT Gorse is a huge problem in the northern part of our municipality, with the control of gorse a real challenge for land owners. The Victorian Gorse Task Force (VGT) is here to help. The VGT is a community advisory taskforce, funded by Agriculture Victoria, who supports public and private landowners in their community-led efforts to reduce gorse across Victoria. To educate communities on the negative impacts of gorse and how to manage it, the VGT produces effective, educational, and supportive gorse management programs. This includes community field days and expos, delivering an annual community grants program, and producing resources landowners and land managers can access anytime. For a snapshot of gorse management techniques, the VGT also has five short demonstration videos on its website and YouTube account that detail control methods and how to best work with your neighbours. They are a short, sharp easy watch and are still packed full of information. For more information on gorse, online resources and upcoming virtual events, please visit the VGT website at www.vicgorsetaskforce.com.au, find VGT on Facebook or contact the Extension officer Brydie Murrihy on 0428 335 705.
Need a Compost Bin? Golden Plains Shire residents can purchase a compost bin for their home through Council. Compost bins are available at wholesale prices in two sizes:
• 220 L: $39 • 400 L: $49 To order a bin, simply call the Customer Service team on 5220 7111 or visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/compost to download and fill out the Compost Bin Order form. If you need help setting up your new compost bin, there is tutorial information and an instructional video on Council’s website at the link above.
COUNCIL NEWS
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays On behalf of all Councillors and staff, Golden Plains Shire Council wishes all residents and visitors a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
Council Festive Season Closures Golden Plains Shire Council will have altered hours during the Christmas and New Year holiday period. The Customer Service Centres at Bannockburn and Smythesdale will close at 5pm, Thursday 24 December 2020, and will re-open at 8.30am, Monday 4 January, 2021. Essential services will be available in this period, in case of an emergency. If you need urgent assistance, please call 5220 7111 and follow the prompts. The Bannockburn Family Services Centre including Maternal and Child Health Service and Active Ageing and Inclusion Services will also close at 5pm, Thursday 24 December, 2020 and re-open for normal operational hours from Monday 4 January, 2021. A number of Community Care workers will deliver essential personal care during the holiday period, and Maternal and Child Health will also deliver essential services on designated dates. Maternal and Child Health consultation from Meredith, Teesdale, Inverleigh and Rokewood Early Years facilities will recommence from Monday 4 January 2021 by appointment only.
GARBAGE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION There are changes to Council’s waste and recycling collection service over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Refer to the table below for your revised collection day during the festive season, and please remember to place your bins out the night before your collection day.
Council’s Kindergarten Services in Bannockburn, Teesdale, Rokewood, Inverleigh and Meredith will be closed by Friday 18 December, 2020 and programs will recommence from Friday 29 January, 2021. Bannockburn Children’s Service will close from 12pm, Thursday 24 December, 2020. Kardinia Early Learning Inc. will commence operating at Bannockburn Family Services Centre the week of 4 January 2021. The Rokewood Transfer Station will be closed on Sunday 27 December, 2020 and re-open for normal operational hours on Sunday 3 January, 2021. For more information on holiday operations and services, please visit Council’s website in mid-December: goldenplains.vic.gov.au
Shop Golden Plains This festive season, please remember to shop local for food and gifts. It’s been a tough year for local businesses and keeping money in our Shire will support jobs and the economic recovery in 2021.
Normal Collection Day
Christmas / New Year Collection Day
Wednesday 23 December, 2020
Wednesday 23 December, 2020
Thursday 24 December, 2020
Thursday 24 December, 2020
Friday 25 December, 2020
Saturday 26 December, 2020
Monday 28 December, 2020
Monday 28 December, 2020
Tuesday 29 December, 2020
Tuesday 29 December, 2020
Wednesday 30 December, 2020
Wednesday 30 December, 2020
Thursday 31 December, 2020
Thursday 31 December, 2020
Friday 1 January, 2021
Saturday 2 January, 2021
ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 13
COMMUNITY NEWS
Recognising Achievement in Sport Have you represented Victoria or Australia in sport and active recreation? Council has a policy on recognising athletes who have been selected or win at State level or above competitions. If this is you, we’d love to hear your story. Please contact Council’s Recreation team via enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au or 5220 7111.
Ready, Set, Play!
IT Grants for Kindergartens
Last year, Council finalised its 10-year Play Space Strategy for Golden Plains Shire.
Golden Plains Shire Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s recent IT grants to five local kindergartens.
With engagement from the community, several local playgrounds were identified to be in need of upgrades to improve safety and increase the play value of these locations. Council has allocated funds from Round 1 of the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program to deliver playground upgrades in 2021 in the following towns: • Garibaldi • Haddon • Linton • Dereel Council also allocated fund from Round 2 of the LRCI program to upgrade the play space at Harrison Reserve, Enfield. Council understands the value of quality local playgrounds and hopes the families of, and visitors to, these towns will enjoy the new improved play facilities.
In September, Council secured a $6,958 grant from the Victorian Government’s Building Blocks Improvement 2020-21 Information Technology program. This funding will provide new IT equipment at five Council-operated Kindergarten Services in Golden Plains Shire. Council’s kindergartens in Teesdale, Inverleigh, Meredith and Bannockburn will purchase new computers, and the Rokewood kindergarten will receive a new iPad and printer. This grant funding will ensure improved access and support children’s learning in the kindergarten environment, and enable Council’s dedicated educators to connect more effectively with families in supporting the continuity of children’s learning at home.
The Golden Plains Twilight Market is back for another year with an evening of food, fun and fine crafts just before Christmas.
14 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
Join in the festivities from 4 to 9pm on Thursday 17 December at the Bannockburn Heart, Byron Street. The Twilight Market is a one-stop shop for all your Christmas needs: fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, free range meats, vegan treats and bespoke gifts direct from the farmers, makers, artists and gourmet provedores of our region. While you stock up on farm-fresh produce for your festive feast or last minute Christmas shopping, sample a chilled craft beer, a glass of local wine or even a cocktail, while enjoying live music and great food. COVID-safe measures will be in place at the event, with more information available at goldenplains.vic.gov.au closer to the event. To stay up-to-date with the latest from the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market, follow the market on Facebook: facebook.com/goldenplainsfarmersmarket.
EVENTS & ENGAGEMENT
Your Council. Your Say.
Draft Community Engagement Policy
Council is committed to engaging with residents on decisions that affect their lives and we want to hear from you! In early 2021, community engagement will open on the Council Plan 2021-2025 and Council hopes all residents will take an interest and share their ideas to develop a robust plan for the next four years. Currently, there are three open community consultations:
Teesdale Structure Plan
The Teesdale Structure Plan and Planning Scheme Amendment C92 are now on public exhibition until 25 January 2021. The Teesdale Structure Plan is a strategic planning document that will guide the long-term growth of Teesdale into the future. It has been developed with the local community, with engagement undertaken in late 2019. The Teesdale Structure Plan was endorsed by Council in April and this consultation process is part of the final process to incorporate the plan into the Planning Scheme. Council’s Strategic Planning team is available to discuss the Plan over the phone during business hours at 5220 7111. Thank you for everyone who participated in an online drop-in session on 7 December and an after-hours phone consultation on 9 December. There is also an after-hours phone consultation on Monday 14 December. The Structure Plan and relevant documents are available at Council’s website, with written feedback welcome until 25 January 2021.
Council is seeking public feedback on its Draft Community Engagement Policy as part of its commitment to improve how engagement is undertaken by Council. As part of new requirements introduced under the Local Government Act 2020, all councils are required to adopt and maintain a Community Engagement Policy, and have one adopted by 1 March 2021. Council’s Draft Policy provides a clear and succinct process that improves Council’s existing practises to ensure deliberative engagement opportunities are well planned, inclusive, accessible and appropriate. The Draft Policy is available on Council’s website and written submissions are welcome until 11 January 2021.
Draft Access & Inclusion Plan Following community engagement undertaken last year, Council has developed a Draft Access & Inclusion Plan. This strategy will assist Council build a more supportive, inclusive and accessible community for people of all abilities and ages. The Draft Plan will be open for public exhibition from mid-December 2020 to 31 January, 2021. In January, Council’s Active Ageing & Inclusion team will also hold a number of in-person consultations on the Draft Plan. Feedback on all these engagements can be sent to enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au or mailed to: Golden Plains Shire, PO Box 111, BANNOCKBURN VIC 3331. To find out more about any of these projects, visit the Have Your Say page on Council’s website at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ consultations. They are also promoted in the Gazette and Golden Plains Times, and on Council’s social media.
ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 15
COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD
Rates Payment All Golden Plains Shire ratepayers received their 2020-21 Rates Notices in the mail last year.
Customer Service BANNOCKBURN 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday 2 Pope Street, Bannockburn Victoria, 3331. SMYTHESDALE 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale Victoria, 3351. PHONE P: 5220 7111 F: 5220 7100 POSTAL ADDRESS Golden Plains Shire Council PO Box 111, Bannockburn, Victoria 3331. EMERGENCY CONTACTS P: 1300 363 036 P: 5220 7111 (24 Hours) To receive a copy of the Gazette in large print, call 5220 7111. Council’s Customer Service Centres and offices will be closed at 5pm, Thursday 24 December, 2020 and will reopen at 8.30am, Monday 4 January, 2021. The centres and offices will also be closed for the Australia Day Public Holiday on Tuesday 26 January, 2021. COVER: Pictured from left to right: Liam Kerr, Claire Keefe, Rory Kerr and Hunter McDonald enjoy the new hard wicket at Linton Recreation Reserve and celebrate the announcement of the new cricket training facility. Photo courtesy of Golden Plains Times.
For residents who are signed up to pay their rates by instalments, the third payment is due on 28 February 2021. Full payment of the Rates Notice is due on 15 February 2021. To apply for Council’s COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy or discuss your rates payments, please call our Rates team for a confidential conversation on 5220 7111.
Online Planning Portal There’s now a more efficient way for Golden Plains’ residents and businesses to interact with Council’s Planning Department, thanks to a new online planning portal. Powered by Greenlight, Council’s Permit Manager portal has been extended to provide all planning-related activities on the one platform. The online portal also makes it easier for all residents to search the publicly available planning register and make a submission on an advertised application. Customers without Internet access can still request hard copies of forms by contacting Council’s Planning Department on 5220 7111.
Avian influenza update Agriculture Victoria has been responding to several detections of avian influenza across the state, including in Golden Plains Shire. There have been no new detections since late August, and in October the housing order for birds ended. However, in order to limit the spread of the disease, the Restricted Area around Lethbridge and wider Control Area are still subject to movement controls and permits. A permit from Agriculture Victoria is required to move poultry, poultry products, equipment or vehicles involved in poultry production into, out of or within the Restricted Areas and Control Areas. A permit is also required for buying, selling or moving eggs, manure and chickens, whether on the side of the road, from your property, your local store, social media or at markets. It is illegal to move these products without a permit. The strains of avian influenza in this incident are not a risk to the public. It rarely affects humans unless there is direct and close contact with sick birds. There are no food safety issues identified; properly cooked chicken meat and eggs are safe to eat. This information is correct as of 27 November 2020. To stay up-to-date with the latest restrictions and to apply for a permit, call Agriculture Victoria on 4334 2715 or visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/avianflu
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