September 2017 Profile Magazine

Quarterly magazine for Local Government Professionals Spring 2017

TO ‘IGNITE FOR OUTDOOR WORKERS’ PROGRAM GRADUATES

LGPro Members

New secondment program

ELP graduates

Meet our diverse members

Building sector capacity

Friends for life

PROFILE SPRING 2017

Connect with us at

LGProVIC

Contents

Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)

6-11 2017 Women’s Events and Sally Isaac Award winners

LGPro Level 3/58 Lorimer Street Docklands 3008 Ph: (03) 9268 6400 Fax: (03) 9646 0469 Email: info@lgpro.com Website: www.lgpro.com

Featuring pictures from these events and the joint

DEADLINES

See what the program for the 2017 Corporate

Profile is published quarterly.

The deadline for Summer 2017 edition is 8 November 2017.

The magazine will circulated electronically in December 2017.

Planners Network Conference has to offer.

CONTRIBUTIONS Story ideas and photographs are always welcome. Please contact Vicki Amiguet, LGPro’s Manager Communication and Sponsorship on (03) 9268 6400 or via email to vickia@lgpro.com

winners of the Sally Isaac Award.

19 Corporate Planners step outside the square

21 New Sector Secondment Program Read about this new program which is designed to build capacity within the sector.

27 Advocacy campaign to protect authorised officers

ADVERTISING

The push to get better protection for authorised

For information or to book advertising in Profile, please call Vicki Amiguet on (03) 9268 6400 or via email to vickia@lgpro.com

officers has been strengthened by data provided by

CREDITS Publisher: LGPro (03) 9268 6400 Editor – Vicki Amiguet Design: Bull Design Group www.bulldesigngroup.com.au

Cover caption: Graduates of LGPro’s inaugural Ignite for Outdoor Workers Program with program facilitators Lindy Amos and Peter Canny.

Caption above: The 2017 LGPro Women’s Professional Development Forum was well attended.

Councils across the state.

28-29 The XLP class of 2017 Meet the 2017 Executive Leaders Program graduates and hear what some of them have to say about the program.

42-43 LGPro Members share their stories We introduce some of our valued Members who talk about their career and why they like working in Local Government.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Strong field of candidates for the Board election ›

September seems to have come around quickly and we are already in the midst of the LGPro Board election. I am confident that we will get a really strong cross section of our members stand in this election.

I have personally found serving

about assaults on authorised officers

on the Board both enjoyable

and efforts to improve safety.

Growing the capacity of the sector

Data is critical if we are to make

Our next Future Ready initiative

an influential case for change.

We believe the information that you provided demonstrates the merit in our argument and we will continue our efforts to get the Attorney General to revisit his decision to deny our earlier request.

Please continue to send through relevant case studies that support this advocacy agenda.

is the LGPro Sector Secondment

Planning for the workforce of the future

in the same way that a consultant

and rewarding. It does require a commitment of time and effort though – and you need to be prepared to be involved and make an active contribution.

LGPro has established a proud reputation for actively involving its members in delivering on high quality advocacy, professional development and capacity building. We continue to strive to be the best we can be and rely on the commitment of our Board members and staff.

I hope you feel the same as me about our work and that you take the opportunity to get involved and actively shape the sector.

Advocating for authorised officers You may have noticed that we have been in the news recently over our advocacy to have the same protection under law for our authorised officers as exists for emergency services personnel.

I’d like to thank all of you who provided us with the information

We are really pleased and excited that our Workforce Planning project is underway. This is the first tangible project to come out of our Future Ready work with Price Waterhouse Coopers. Developed as a partnership with Loddon, Indigo, Murrindindi, Mansfield, Alpine and Wangaratta Councils, with support from Whitehorse and Glen Eira, this project will see the development of a Model Workforce Plan template and associated guidance that can be deployed across the state, in the same way that the Model Budget underpins our financial planning.

The project received funding through the DELWP/LGV Finance and Accounting Support Team (FAST) program Stream Two – which supports rural and regional Councils to explore opportunities for shared services and collaborative procurement. We know that it’s probable that the new Local Government Act will include a requirement for Workforce Plans to be developed by every Council, so the timing of this project could not be better.

4 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Program (SSP) which has been designed to grow capacity and leadership – in the sector, by the sector. The program involves LGPro facilitating secondments of experienced Council professionals on either a one way or two way basis.

The one way secondments are designed to fill short term skills gaps, or contractor may have previously been used. We think that they will be particularly attractive to rural and regional Councils as a way to build local capacity and capability.

The two way secondments, or job swaps, give the opportunity for experienced staff to refresh, gain a new perspective, and/or broaden their reach by taking up a short term assignment in another Council. Their home Council doesn’t miss out, as they receive someone in exchange.

The SSP is definitely not a try before you buy program. It’s about providing opportunities for people who have skills and knowledge that they are prepared to share, and also about providing long serving employees with the opportunity to refresh their perspective. The concept testing that we have done so far has reassured us that it is going to be a really popular initiative.

Look forward to seeing you soon.

Rebecca McKenzie PRESIDENT

CEO’S MESSAGE

A huge fan of flaunting excellence in the sector ›

We have the 2018 LGPro Awards for Excellence open for nominations. No secret that I’m a huge fan. As Max Bialystock in The Producers shouted: “when you’ve got it, flaunt it, flaunt it!”

Celebrating success and

session “Friends with Professional

achievements is a vital part of

Benefits” which was run as a

supporting you and your work.

speed networking session with a

There are so many good things

great range of leaders from Local

being achieved that it would be

Government, State Government

a real shame not to share and

and the corporate sector.

acknowledge them. The awards also provide excellent case studies that we should be using to highlight the role and capability of the sector to the broader community.

Pleasing response to online learning The response to the LGPro Online Learning Child Safe Standards course has been really pleasing.

When we decided to enter into online learning we committed to the same principles we use for all our program development; Local Government specific and must have direct input and involvement from our members.

young professionals who attended.

Congratulations to David Power, Port Phillip, Krysten Evans, Baw Baw and Cameron Gary, Ballarat who developed the program and to the LGPro staff who provided support.

to be able to attend the LGPro Young Professionals Network

By the time you read this the 2018 Annual Conference program will be close to being finalised.

Rather than multiple conference planning meetings, this year we opted to do a full day planning session with the conference planning committee where we

It’s really pleasing that our

Working with your feedback

longstanding programs continue

we’ve made some changes that

to receive strong support and

we believe will better address

excellent feedback. Induction

your needs and add value to

continues to receive solid interest

the Annual Conference.

from across the state with four of

regional Victoria.

Recently I was lucky enough

Secondment Program and the

Strong support for our programs

principles in practice creating

Young professionals continue to thrive

Planners conferences, Sector

six Councils in the north of Victoria.

both the invited leaders and 40

year being delivered in rural and

and insights of our members.

Disability Services and Corporate

Workforce Planning project with

is an excellent example of these

developed with the expertise

to in 2017. We have the Aged &

energy and great insights from

the seven sessions this financial

for the sector and initiated and

There’s still a lot to look forward

It was a terrific session full of

The Child Safe Standards course

a course designed specifically

Looking forward

Ignite is fully subscribed and the

mapped out the entire program.

I look forward to catching up with you soon.

DAVID PREISS CEO

Workers program has proved to be

“I just got lost in thought.

It was unfamiliar territory.”

a great success with two series

– Steven Wright

newly developed Ignite for Outdoor

of the program running. Thinking Career and Leadership and Council Report Writing are receiving strong support, in particular from rural/ regional Councils.

5 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

2017 WOMEN’S EVENTS R LGPro’s two key women’s events held in June hit the mark with the 700 plus who attended with 88% of those who responded to the evaluation, rating the forum as either excellent or very good and 91% giving the same rating to the dinner.

A total of 91% said they attended the forum for their personal and professional development, while 44% said they attended to network with colleagues and peers.

Networking was the prime reason 77% said they attended the dinner, while interestingly 48% said they attended to celebrate being a part of the Local Government sector.

Guest speaker at the dinner Anna Brown received rave reviews as did the two keynote speakers at the forum, Dr Louise Mahler and Robyn Davidson.

See some of the comments from delegates below and on page 8.

“Speakers were enjoyable relevant and engaging”

From left, Corrine Bowen, Kym Mallamaci, Lisa Keedle and Peter Smith from Yarra Ranges Council.

“Exceptional – entertaining and inspiring” “Brilliant” “Very engaging and lots of learning” Deborah May, Managing Director, Principal, The May Group presented an interactive session.

“I enjoyed the positive energy, it was very contagious” “Great content!”

“Useful practical tips to be more effective communicator” “Entertaining, useful and practical advice”

6 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Community leader, Aishwarya Pokkuluri presented a Short Talk.

Tony McGann, Colac Otway Shire Council.

RECEIVE RAVE REVIEWS

Keynote presenter, Robyn Davidson.

Fleur Cousins from Knox City Council.

Kerryn Ellis, Greater Bendigo City Council.

Delegates express themselves during one of the sessions.

From left, Rebecca McKenzie, LGPro President; Rachael Whiting and Fiona Bain from McArthur and David Preiss, LGPro CEO.

Sponsors

Dinuki Scharenguivel, Jess Monahan and Chloe Casey from Casey City Council.

Aunty Di Kerr performed the Welcome to Country.

Fiona Redding, The Happiness Hunter makes a point.

Trina Pitcher From Flourishing Executives presented an interactive session.

From left, John Isaac, Kelly Hinton and Phoebe NagorckaSmith (joint Sally Isaac Award winners), Kimberley Pellosis (award finalist) and Shane Isaac.

LGPro thanks the following sponsors for their support of our women’s events.

MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR SUPPORTING SPONSOR

7 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

LGPro Board Members from left, Lynley Dumble, Cameron Gray and Pauline Bennett, Anna Brown (dinner speaker), Rebecca McKenzie, Robyn Mansfield and Liana Thompson.

Siu Chan from Yarra City Council and Helen Jennings, Director, Wayferer Consulting were involved in the presentation of the Sally Isaac Award.

“Fantastic to hear young women doing great work”

“Excellent +”

“Good to see that young people are on top of their game”

“Truly inspiring” Delegates at one of the interactive sessions.

“Loved the short talks, all great, genuine people”

“WOW! WOW! WOW!”

“An amazing storyteller”

“Amazing, dynamic young women”

“Very important messages”

Dr Louise Mahler’s keynote received rave reviews.

A delegate is invited to participate in a keynote presentation.

8 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Georgia Retallick from The Y House Foundation presented a Short Talk.

Rachel Palmer, Hepburn Shire Council.

From left, Debbie Bach, Jay Petty, Naomi Goode, Justine Kingan, all from Northern Grampians Shire Council.

Whittlesea Council women, from left, Wendy Castles, Liana Thompson, Dianne Deal, Felicity Ayers and Helen Sui.

LGPro President Rebecca McKenzie chats with fellow Board Member Cameron Gray.

Captain Jennifer Wittwer

Jenny Fink, Ballarat City Council.

Pauline Bennett Manager Organisational Development at Whitehorse Council and LGPro Board Member provided valuable tips on how to improve your resume.

Entertainment was provided between the forum and pre dinner drinks.

Jean Butler from Yarra Ranges Council chats to a colleague.

Mel Jeffery, LGPro 2015 Young Achiever and 2016 Sally Isaac Award winner.

April Williams, Monash City Council.

Anna Brown was a popular speaker at the Women’s Network Dinner.

Delegates engrossed in a presentation.

9 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Marianne Di Giallonardo, from Maroondah City Council.

Emma Brown, Yarra Ranges Council.

LGPro Board Member Lynley Dumble chaired a session.

A delegate enjoys a lighter moment.

Hayley Rowe, Glenelg Shire Council.

Delegates in discussion during a session.

Peter Smith from Yarra Ranges Council.

Maree Greenwood from Borough of Queenscliff won this gift basket provided by Horner Recruitment, an exhibitor at the forum.

A large crowd attended the women’s Network Dinner.

10 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

JOINT

SALLY ISAAC AWARD WINNERS FOR 2017

The talent in this year’s Sally Isaac Memorial Award was so strong the judges could not split two nominees so Kelly Hinton and Phoebe Nagorcka-Smith were announced joint winners.

Both are deserving winners having made a positive impact through their commitment to improving community life. In this Profile we speak to Kelly and Phoebe to learn about them and how we in Local Government can help create positive change.

Kelly Hinton, Principal Strategic Advisor, Eastern Region Family Violence Partnership Office Kelly is a leader in policy development and strategic advocacy against domestic violence in Australia. Her work is based on ensuring that women’s voices and experiences are heard and knowledge from frontline workers is used to inform decision makers and influence government policy.

She has contributed to the development of the first Postgraduate Certificate in Family Violence in Australia, and successfully campaigned to recognise human trafficking as a form of violence against women in the Victorian Government Action Plan (2012-2015).

Kelly says: “I originally got into social work because I am really passionate about social justice and addressing inequity – particularly fighting alongside people who are silenced or not heard.

This award is really special to me, not just because of its close ties to who Sally was and what she stood for, but in its ability to affirm young women to continue to pursue their goals no matter how ambitious they are. The scholarship will support my study towards a Juris Doctor at RMIT, and it’s a huge help both financially and in terms of motivation to keep me going!

disease; and with Collective Shout, working on advocacy campaigns against the sexualisation of girls and women in the media.

Phoebe says: “I believe the key to creating positive change is being passionate about what you’re doing and the people you’re doing it with, but the most important thing to do is to just get started.”

“I have always loved working with young people. I was very active in my community as a young person, but also felt the barriers that come with living in a rural area, so I’m passionate about making sure that young people are supported to participate and make change. We can all do this by creating environments where it is safe for them to test their limits, by showing that their experiences and opinions are taken seriously, and by providing them with the advice and resources they need to get started.”

Phoebe believes Local Government can have a role in empowering, supporting and leading change. This means listening to and valuing the community’s interest on an issue, supporting community leaders by removing barriers to change, and showing leadership by speaking out about issues that are important to the community.

“It’s really special to be recognised for work I’ve done in my community amongst such an inspiring group of young women, and also to receive support for completing further study which I’m hoping to use for research on collaborative community initiatives.”

I believe that we can encourage more young people to create positive change in the community by fostering a culture of advocacy from a young age. It is so important to encourage young people to speak out and take action on whatever they are passionate about. Promoting positive role models and investing in mentoring programs is also very important.

I think Local Government can play a role in promoting positive change through providing more opportunities and scholarships like the Sally Isaac Memorial Award to encourage and support young people. Connecting meaningfully with the local community on an ongoing basis is the key to encouraging people to get involved and give back to their community.”

Phoebe Nagorcka-Smith Social Planner, Glenelg Shire Council Phoebe’s work in Local Government has focused on youth engagement and health initiatives in her community. As a Youth Development Officer, she has worked extensively with young people to increase civic participation and help them make a difference in their community.

In her current role as a Social Planner she is looking at ways to improve community health and wellbeing, as well as focusing on issues like gender equality and community-centered planning.

Phoebe has previously worked in volunteer roles with Baker ID, assisting their research group investigate diabetes and heart

Kelly (left) and Phoebe with their award.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE OTHER TWO FINALISTS IN THE 2017 SALLY ISAAC MEMORIAL AWARD: • Madeleine Dowling, Volunteer Coordinator, Community Wellbeing, Melbourne City Council • Kimberly Pellosis, Sustainability Planning (Land Management) and Agribusiness Intern, Wyndham City Council

11 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Gender equality.

It’s all about taking a balanced approach.

McArthur doesn't simply pay lip service to maintaining a gender diverse and balanced workplace, it is a commitment that touches every part of our national operations. Since our inception in 1969, focused and ambitious females have played an integral role in our success.

Today, they represent every level of McArthur – Director, State and Divisional Management, Senior Consultant, Line Management and Administration.

We also apply the same principles to every stage of our recruitment process – from sourcing to shortlisting. We ensure all recruitment submissions and recommendations presented to McArthur clients are based on capability and competence, and we never compromise.

To obtain a copy of our Gender Equality Values Statement, contact Colin Britten, National Marketing and Communications Manager on (03) 9828 6565 or email colin.britten@mcarthur.com.au

Preparing for life after

HACC

in aged & disability services Life after HACC is the theme of the 2017 Aged & Disability Services Seminar being held on Thursday 21 September at CQ Functions, 113 Queen Street, Melbourne.

The seminar will still be held over one day, from 8.30am-4pm, but this year the Aged & Disability Services Awards Dinner will follow on from the seminar instead of being held the evening before.

Theme

The Life after HACC theme will focus on how Local Government can move forward positively by identifying and embracing new opportunities that exist in the vastly different environment they are now operating in. It will also look at what their role could or should be in supporting the ageing population and younger people and their carers into the future.

Program

The one day program will feature: • • • •

Two keynote speakers Two concurrent interactive sessions A facilitated panel discussion A review and reflection of the learnings of the day

Keynote Speakers Pat Sparrow, National CEO, Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) will present a keynote titled: A new era towards a consumer directed, market based approach. She will review the significant reforms the sector has experienced and discuss the issues and opportunities as aged care moves towards a consumer directed, market based approach.

14 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Who should attend

• Sector managers, coordinators and team leaders • Assessment officers • Administrators • Community development officers • Disability services managers and staff • Human resource professionals • Community services directors • Social planners • OH&S officers and staff • Social support managers and staff • Food services coordinators • Other community care providers

Martin Heppell, Education Manager/Presenter, The Resilience Project will speak about evoking positivity and discovering resilience.

The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs to schools, sports clubs and businesses and provides them with evidence based, practical strategies to build resilience. Martin will address how to apply the strategies of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness to a working situation, with a focus on self care of employees.

Facilitated Panel Discussion

Jocelyn Fuller

Jocelyn Fuller, Consultant and Policy Advisor, Municipal Association of Victoria will facilitate a panel discussion titled: Sharing the experience.

Guest panellists are Tanya Clark, Manager Active Ageing & Disability Services, Knox City Council and Michael Faneco, Operations Manager In Home Care – South East Service and Operations, Baptcare.

The discussion will centre on roll out of the NDIS and the aged care system reform and how we can ensure we end up with the best possible system both now and into the future.

Concurrent Interactive Sessions

Tanya Clark

Michael Faneco

Careers: Taking the next steps – a workshop presentation by Elizabeth Corbett, Director, Brookcor Consulting, examining the various stages of career development, plus the opportunity to reflect on your career to date.

Enhancing service provision for the homeless and those at risk – a presentation and panel discussion on homelessness providing examples of achievements with coordinated approaches, along with opportunities to enhance community service partnerships.

Click here for more information and to register for the 2017 LGPro Aged & Disability Services Seminar.

Elizabeth Corbett

Aged & Disability

SERVICES AWARDS DINNER

The Awards Dinner will be held following the LGPro Aged & Disability Services Seminar at the same venue, CQ Functions.

The awards recognise and celebrate the excellent work being done by teams working in the Victorian Local Government aged & disability services sector.

The dinner is a great opportunity for colleagues from across the sector to celebrate success of individuals and teams that have entered the awards and to network with colleagues. It starts at 6.30pm with pre dinner drinks followed by a three course meal, presentation of the awards and entertainment.

Councils are welcome to organise a table. For more information, please visit 2017 LGPro Aged & Disability Services Awards.

LGPRO THANKS THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS

AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES SEMINAR

SEMINAR MAJOR SPONSOR

SEMINAR SUPPORTING SPONSOR

AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES AWARDS

AWARDS SPONSOR

15 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

FEATURE ARTICLE

Sue set to take on a new challenge

›

Sue Wilkinson is set to begin the next stage of her career as she takes on the top job as CEO at the City of Darebin later this month. She left Colac Otway Shire on September 1 after three years at the helm.

In this Profile Sue talks about her 25 year career in the sector.

Sue Wilkinson is quick to

Port Phillip Councils, and

lead others. Other people showed

acknowledge the influential

the Victorian Government’s

strong belief in me and having

role of mentors and working with

Department of Planning and

had that experience has made me

some extraordinary individuals

Community Development.

want to do that for others. I want

has had on her career along with having the good fortune to work for organisations that celebrated success.

She has also served on several boards including the former Building Appeals Board and is

to encourage them to have the confidence to back themselves and not be limited.”

currently serving on the boards of

Sue’s time at Colac Otway Shire

But she also says she’s worked

the G21 Alliance and the Barwon

has provided a contrast in work

very hard during her years in Local

South Regional Development

environment compared to that of

Government, and as a qualified

Australia Committee.

a metropolitan Council with the

planner she has had a strong career managing many major strategic planning, economic and community development projects.

Sue started out in Local Government during Council amalgamations in the early

main differences being population size, extremely tight budgets, service provision and diversity.

90s. She never had ambitions

“The major challenge is that

Prior to taking on the Colac Otway

to be a CEO, she just wanted

budgets are so incredibly tight in

Shire Council’s leadership role

to do a good job. “I really just

regional Victoria, yet we offer the

three years ago, Sue worked

wanted to get a job because

same range of services our metro

in senior roles at Monash and

when I started it was a recession

counterparts do. In a rural area you

and just getting a job was difficult.”

still have all the same legislative

Her motivation throughout her career has been to seek interesting roles that were challenging and rewarding. But she says she was also fortunate to have worked

smaller budgets so you become really smart with money. We really do some amazing innovative things with very little resources,” she said.

with extraordinary leaders who

Sue believes a good leader

encouraged her to take on roles

needs to be passionate, energetic,

with increased responsibility

positive, decisive and humble,

and “I wanted to be like them”.

as well as collaborative and

Very early in her career Sue was put forward to participate

prepared to acknowledge they don’t know everything.

in a leadership program and she

Calculating challenges and risks

says she was lucky to have that

are part of the role of a CEO,

investment in her. That belief

but it’s also something Sue has

from others really gave her

done throughout her career.

confidence to put herself

She considers one of her biggest

forward for other roles.

career risks was when she was

“I’ve worked with some great people encouraging me and pushing me to challenge myself.

This has also helped me to recognise the skills needed to 16 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

requirements as in the city but with

seconded as an advisor in the Victoria Government planning portfolio. The role was challenging and different but it provided an opportunity to see the challenges

in the relationship between State

Sue is participating in the Ministerial

to develop it fully. I believe that

and Local Government. It was an

Round Table established to help

there is a lot of work to be

invaluable experience and beneficial

address gender inequality in Local

done in that space.”

in her Local Government role.

Government where only 12 or

“One of the brilliant things about working in Local Government is that there are new challenges every day and so you never stop learning,” Sue says.

She recognises that she works in a male dominated field but says it’s not something that has provided her any great difficulty. “I’ve always worked in male dominated areas, but I recognise we need to do more to address gender inequality at CEO level.”

16% of CEOs in all 79 Councils are female. “Local Government is the closest arm of government to the people, yet the industry is not even close to being representative of the community we’re responsible for serving,” she says.

She also feels that Local Government gets a bad rap in the community and that the sector as a whole needs to get together to address this. “There’s a reputation challenge for Local Government.

In my experience most people who work in the sector are

Developing staff and identifying

extremely dedicated and work

future leaders in Local Government

really hard for their community.

is an area where Sue believes the

As a sector we achieve amazing

sector needs to do more. “There’s

things and this effort is not well

an extraordinary level of talent in

recognised or celebrated and

Local Government but we haven’t

I believe it should be.”

yet worked out how to tap into it

My Council Services Council to Community Community to Council

•

•

Waste

o�o

I

Get active

Centres

Contact Council

Contact Us:

1300 760 011

2017 LGPRO CORPORATE PLANNERS NETWORK CONFERENCE

Stepping outside the square to think differently ›

The 2017 LGPro Corporate Planners Network Conference will be held on Friday 17 November at Melbourne Arts Centre.

Theme

We all know that Business as

Stepping outside the square.

Usual (BAU) is not an option any

Who should attend?

this year’s conference is ‘Stepping

This conference is for anyone

outside the square’.

interested in thinking differently,

Hear from an organising committee member

wanting to learn ways of managing change, planning for the future or those who want to learn from others on how success can be achieved by doing something a new way, not only Corporate Planners.

Background Every four years Corporate Planners

more. That’s why the focus for

The Corporate Planners Network Conference Committee has been

valuable tools and insights that can be applied in their organisation.

given me a greater insight into

direction for the organisation

the variety of issues we face and

through the development of the

opportunities we have in the sector

Council Plan. The challenge is to

to share and build our capacity as

ensure the needs of the community

leaders in a changing environment.

in professionals on the committee

On top of this – the environment

your thinking and expands the

we work in is changing. As

networking opportunities. Over the

Corporate Planners we need to

last 18 years in Local Government,

be innovative, look at new ways

I continue to learn and always

of engaging, embracing big data

appreciate the high value of sharing

and digital technology to become

and networking.

that led the Corporate Planners Network Conference Committee to decide that we needed to be bold, brave and sometimes take a leap of faith.

Hear from three different organisations, (public, private and international) who will share their stories of using technology and innovation to great success.

You can quiz them after the event.

CHANGE – HOW?

Learn the importance of managing change. The change that happens with or without your consent. How to introduce change on your terms.

PRACTICE

Learn and apply some useful tools and methods to introduce change, generate change, think differently.

AWARDS

Celebrate the success of the Corporate and Community Planning Awards which showcase the work that has been achieved in the sector for Council or community planning, performance management or organisational change.

It is great to have such a diversity

capability of your organisation.

community. This was the discussion

LEARN FROM OTHERS

to provide those attending some

Being part of the committee has

more agile and responsive to our

Insights from the keynote speaker on how technology is driving innovation, how it impacts the way we need to plan strategically for the future.

to put together a great agenda

Council in planning the strategic

service delivery within the financial

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

EXPAND YOUR THINKING

working for the last few months

have the opportunity to guide their

are balanced with the right level of

WHY ATTEND?

that provides new ideas, challenges

BONUS – this year we also celebrate an additional award for Best Practice and Innovation in Council Plan Development to acknowledge continuous improvement in the project planning, stimulate innovation and to acknowledge best practice and development of Council.

We thank Birgit King, Corporate Planning and Performance

We will also be presenting a Delegate’s Choice Award where delegates attending the conference get to be the judge!

Coordinator at Yarra Ranges Council and one of five members on the Corporate Planners Network Conference Committee, for putting together this article.

FUN

Interactive sessions, networking, great food and the chance to meet the Corporate Planners Network Conference Committee.

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE 2017 CORPORATE PLANNERS NETWORK CONFERENCE AND AWARDS

19 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

NEW OFFERING

New secondment program to build sector capacity ›

LGPro is launching a Sector Secondment Program (SSP) designed to build the capacity of Councils and to develop strong, confident leaders.

The program is needs based for both

Where there are potential matches

Councils and individuals working

LGPro will put the parties in touch

in the sector and is able to be

with each other and provide

customised depending on the need.

assistance to establish a mutually

Its overall aim is to support greater collaboration and knowledge sharing by using the expertise that already exists within the sector.

Initially the program will target people working at Director

beneficial arrangement. A Guide and Template Agreement has been developed to assist with issues including salary, leave accrual and superannuation.

LGPro recommends that in

core component of the seconded officer’s role.

the case of direct job swaps,

“It will also offer professional

the arrangement should be for

development and career extension

a minimum of six weeks and up

for both the seconded officer

to six months, whereas a more

and for the person acting in the

customised approach will be

seconded officer’s Council as

The Sector Secondment

required for secondments filling

they will have an opportunity to

program will offer:

short to medium term vacancies

undertake higher duties,” he said.

and Manager level, but within 6-12 months it is hoped that it will be expanded to cover officers at all levels.

• Direct job swaps for Directors and Managers who want to develop their ability to manage and lead people outside of their area of specialist expertise or who want to refresh themselves by being exposed to different models of leadership and ideas on service delivery in another Council • A service to assist Councils

at an executive level or on a specific project.

Mr Preiss stressed that the program

BACKGROUND

employment opportunities, it was

The need for a sector secondment

was not designed to facilitate purely for short term secondments.

program was first identified in

All Council CEOs and

LGPro’s Future Ready project

HR Managers have received

which looked at the key issues,

information about the program.

opportunities and challenges facing

For further details contact

Local Government service delivery

David Preiss on (03) 9268 6400.

in the future, and how best to respond to these.

to fill short to medium term vacancies at executive level

LGPro CEO, David Preiss said it

and/or on significant projects

was felt that the sector should

which are unable to be met from

utilise the expertise it had within

within existing resources. These

to further build its capacity and

vacancies will be filled by people

to develop strong contemporary

already working in the sector.

leaders that could assist Councils to operate effectively in the complex

HOW IT WILL WORK LGPro will act as a facilitator and

and challenging environment that the sector faced.

broker for the program. Expressions

He believes the SSP will provide a

of Interest (EOIs) will be sent calling

positive outcome for all parties by

for officers interested in gaining

providing skilled replacements for

professional development through

the receiving Council and leaving

the program and to Councils

a legacy of increased capacity as

wishing to bring specific expertise

teaching/ mentoring would be a

into their organisations.

21 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

MAXIMISING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE More than 100 customer service professionals attended the recent 2017 LGPro Customer Service Conference focusing on how to maximise the customer experience.

They explored the importance of strategy, design and measurement in maximising the customer experience and received practical tools and solutions on how to do this at their Councils.

The 2017 LGPro Customer Service Award winner was also announced. It went to Casey City Council for their Digital Casey project which established 14 crucial online services so customers can now complete applications from home or via mobile for pet registration, hard waste bookings, kindergarten registrations, and permits for residential planning. This has reduced the cost of delivering services by up to 50%, and resulted in an average 90% customer satisfaction rating.

Steve Burgess from Wyndham City Council with a colleague.

Audrey Baker from Moonee Valley City Council makes a comment.

Kristi Mansfield from Oracle Corporation presented on journey mapping.

From left, William Costello, Sameera Singh and Rose Barletta from Yarra City Council.

The Facilitated Panel discussion was popular with delegates. The panel from left, Cameron Gray (facilitator), Isabella Villani, Graham Tobin and Mark Hocknell.

22 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Charles Taveira from Greater Dandenong City Council.

MAJOR SPONSOR

Margie Manrahan from Kingston City Council enjoys a break.

Isabella Villani presented a keynote on customer experience.

Chrissy Gordon from Monash City Council puts across her point of view.

Lucy Proctor from Yarra Ranges Council poses a question.

Jude Whelan from Knox City Council chats to a colleague.

Vicki Klapsinos from Moreland City Council was a member of the organising committee.

The team from Casey City Council who won the 2017 LGPro Customer Service Award with conference sponsor, Tri Luong from OracleCMS (back row, far left).

LOOKING FOR SOME WAYS TO SPREAD THE WORD OR GET THE COMMUNITY INVOLVED, BUT UNSURE WHERE TO START? ASK OUR SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERTS HOW WE CAN ASSIST YOU IN ENGAGING WITH YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE

Workforce Planning Project update ›

One of the strategic pillars identified in LGPro’s Future Ready report is People – specifically, the achievement of an agile workforce that has the right skills to provide services that the community wants and expects now and into the future.

Key to this is ensuring that the sector has a structured approach to workforce planning (WFP) that is informed by facts and data, and that anticipates what the skills, capabilities and profile of the future workforce needs to be.

Recently a group of six regional Councils were successful in attracting $75,000 from Local Government Victoria through the FAST grant program. The project seeks to develop a model workforce planning template (similar to the model budget that is already widely utilised across the sector).

The six participating rural/regional Councils – Alpine, Indigo, Loddon, Mansfield, Murrindindi and the Rural City of Wangaratta as lead Council – will work with LGPro to oversee the establishment of a statewide model that can be used across all Councils regardless of their size and workforce. Whitehorse City Council and Glen Eira City Council Human Resource Managers are assisting by mentoring the regional group.

Currently there is no consistent approach to WFP across the sector.

However, there is a strong desire

to work more collaboratively and grow shared service partnership arrangements.

A consistent framework implemented across the sector will provide meaningful data on workforce demographics, workforce trends and the opportunities that exist to collaborate with various stakeholders in regional and shared service models.

Crucially, a sector wide approach to WFP is an important initiative in light of the proposed legislative requirement in the reform of the Local Government Act to mandate all Councils in Victoria to have a workforce plan and to review it annually.

Employment expenditure equates to approximately 40% of each Council’s budget, yet there is no requirement across the sector to strategically plan, monitor or report on this activity in the same manner as financial expenditure, asset management or capital works activities. Having a consistent approach will allow for scalability and gain meaningful data at both a regional and state level.

Project management will occur through the established governance model for the Future Ready Project, which includes the six CEOs of the participating Councils and other key senior sector stakeholders.

Personally, I am thrilled to be participating in this project as it enables me to continue working at a sector level which is something I really enjoy. I can also see the benefit this will bring to all Councils.

As a group, I know the pilot project team are mostly sole operators in their individual Councils so if we can achieve this project and develop meaningful workforce plans then any Council in the sector can do this!

We also can’t wait to share our progress and learnings with our colleagues at the various HR events.

We thank Fiona Shanks, Manager of People and Performance at the Rural City of Wangaratta (pictured below), who is a member of the project team for providing this article. We will provide our members with updates on this important project.

Members of the project team pictured at their first meeting.

25 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT It’s time to acknowledge the great work being done by teams and individuals working in the sector by nominating them for an LGPro Award for Excellence. Nominations for the 2018 awards close on Friday 13 October. Awards are offered in the following categories: INNOVATIVE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE

SERVICE DELIVERY INITIATIVE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE

Projects $1.5 million & under

Projects over $1.5 million

SPECIAL PROJECTS INITIATIVE

SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS INITIATIVE

ORGANISATIONAL DIVERSITY

The nomination process is online to streamline it and make it easier for people to start their nomination, save it and go back and complete it or check it at a later date before submitting it for consideration.

Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2018 LGPro Annual Conference Dinner on Thursday, 22 February at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

YOUNG ACHIEVER

THESE AWARDS ARE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

Visit 2018 Awards for Excellence for full details on how to nominate for an award or for further information contact the LGPro office on (03) 9268 6400.

Wednesday 21 February from 2pm and Thursday 22 February Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

ANNUEARLENCE CONF ARGE CH TAKING

Highlights: • Specialised half day work based sessions offering practical tools and advice • Quality keynote speakers • Focus on networking • Inspirational Short Talks • Annual Conference Dinner featuring presentation of 2018 Awards for Excellence Program to be released in November.

ADVOCACY NEWS

Continuing the fight for protection for authorised officers ›

Data provided by Councils across the state has strengthened our ongoing advocacy campaign to see authorised officers working in Councils receive the same legislative protection as emergency workers.

To build our case to get a meeting

through to attempted murder. In

and calling for the same sentences

with the Attorney General, Martin

regard to verbal abuse it was difficult

to apply to offenders who assault

Pakula to discuss the issue, in July

to put an exact number on this as

Council officers to those that apply

we wrote to all Council CEOs asking

some Councils reported it as a daily

to emergency workers. Concerns

them to provide us with statistics on

or weekly occurrence, while others

have also been raised in regular

instances of assaults, verbal abuse

reported three or four instances per

meetings between LGPro and the

and threats against authorised

year. The variation in the number

Minister for Local Government.

officers in the past 12 months. We

between Councils might have to do

also asked about any strategies they

with how verbal abuse is defined.

have in place to improve safety for

We also highlighted the issue in our submission to the Local

LGPro has written to the Minister for

Government Act review. Part of

Local Government, Natalie Hutchins

our submission called for “the

outlining the data and asking her

introduction of a specific offence

The response from the sector

to make this information known to

provision(s) within the new Local

was strong with 31 Councils,

the Attorney General and to support

Government Act that applies to

15 of which were rural/regional,

our request for a meeting with him

causing serious injury or the death

providing us with information.

to argue the case for authorised

of a Council appointed authorised

officers being afforded the same

officer mirroring the current

legislative protection as their

offences to which section 10AA of

emergency counterparts.

the Sentencing Act applies using

these officers, in particular the use of body cams.

Nineteen councils said they were either regularly using or trialing body cams and many others

the definition of ‘serious injury’

provided information of a range of

We have been actively campaigning

proactive safety initiatives they have

for some time calling for more

introduced to improve safety for

protection for authorised officers.

The Attorney General has yet

their authorised officers.

We initially wrote to the Sentencing

to support our campaign. In a

Advisory Council and the Minister

letter to LGPro earlier this year Mr

for Local Government expressing

Pakula said the intent of reforms

our concern about the increase

imposing statutory minimum

in the number of Council officers

sentences for offences involving

being assaulted in the line of duty

attacks on emergency workers

The data provided detailed 29 physical assaults in the past 12 months ranging from grabbing, pushing and slapping all the way

within section 15 the Crimes Act.”

and custodial officers was to confer greater protection on those who the community relies on to respond to emergencies and to directly manage Victoria’s prisoners. The categories of officers that have been included in the legislation are very specific, and the Government does not have plans to extend these statutory minimum provisions, the letter said.

Our campaign has received broad media coverage including a recent article published in The Age.

27 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT NEWS

XLP class of 2017 ›

Twenty four Local Government senior executives graduated from LGPro’s 2017 Executive Leadership Program recently. They had spent the past six months addressing the issues and challenges they face in the sector, learning from the best and honing their skills to help them become confident and capable leaders in Local Government.

In this Profile we speak to three 2017 XLP graduates to get their thoughts on the program.

Sharon Morrison, Director Corporate Services, Loddon Shire Council I nominated for XLP as I was a newly appointed Director and was keen to establish new networks at a different level in Local Government and expand my existing networks. I also wanted to be challenged by new ways of thinking and I saw XLP as an opportunity to meet those needs.

Program highlights for me included developing new supportive relationships and having the luxury of spending dedicated time thinking about governance, people and strategic foresight. I also enjoyed the quality of the speakers, the insights and guidance of the course facilitator Chris Kotur, and the support of program manager, Leanne Bickley.

The program, at different stages, has challenged me both personally and professionally. I now feel I have a stronger support network and new tools in my leadership kit. My Council has benefited from my involvement as I have been able to share my learning with staff and colleagues and introduce new ideas to the organisation which have assisted with leading change. I have also been fortunate to use case studies from my own experience during XLP workshops which has helped with responding to a variety of challenges. During the times when I felt personally challenges I was able to access my mentor, another key component of the program.

I am confident that the LGPro Executive Leadership Program challenges and inspires Local Government leaders whether they have been in the sector or their role for a short time or a long time.

Whether your motivation is growing your networks, expanding your knowledge, or challenging your thinking, XLP is a great opportunity and experience.

Russell Hopkins, Director Community Services, Whittlesea City Council I nominated for XLP as I am committed to the ongoing development of my leadership skills. I believe that the moment that we think that we’re a fully formed leader is the moment that we’ve let ourselves, our staff and our colleagues down! XLP provided an opportunity to undertake some industry specific, yet broad ranging leadership development, and to also increase my network of colleagues and friends.

One of the highlights for me is the breadth of the program itself, ranging from Dr Louise Mahler’s vibrant workshops around communication through to John Thwaite’s perspectives on critical relationships. You take something valuable from every session, but a couple that resonated particularly with me were Dr Simon Longstaff’s session around ethics in leadership, and Dr Craig Hassed’s one on mindfulness.

Personally, the program provided me with the ability to be exposed to and reflect on a range of different leadership styles, models and perspectives, which is never a bad thing. Professionally, the challenge and aim is to take these learnings and utilise them, understanding that not everything we’ve learnt will be applicable to each of our individual contexts and styles. Also, wherever possible it’s been great to share some of the wisdom and knowledge with others at work.

I encourage others to consider nominating for the program because it also allows you to reflect on, and adapt your own style, with the ultimate aim of providing the greatest value that you can to your organisation, your community, and the Local Government sector.

28 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Lucy Roffey, Chief Executive Officer, Buloke Shire Council I nominated for XLP as I was looking for an executive program to further my skills and senior executive career and it was an excellent opportunity to be involved in an executive program that was tailored for Local Government.

The range and depth of speakers in the program was an absolute highlight for me. We heard from leaders in their field across the spectrum of politics, ethics, psychology, strategy etc. The other highlight was the relationships developed with the other participants all of whom are senior leaders from Councils across Victoria. Their insights and ideas have added significantly to my knowledge and understanding of all of the topics discussed.

Most of the tools and techniques presented in the program are very practical and I’m already using them in my day to day work, with Councillors and teams. There was also a lot of content that challenged our thinking of our own style or way of doing things, and this has given me greater insight into my own strengths, preferences, weaknesses and areas for development and growth. As a new CEO the course was invaluable for helping me prioritise where to focus my energy in the first three-six months of my appointment.

The program provides an excellent opportunity for senior executives to leave the day to day business of Council and take a deep dive into some interesting and very relevant topics.

It’s an opportunity to meet and learn from an impressive range of experts, leaders and other Council executives.

Nominations for XLP for 2018 will open on 20 September and close 27 October.

Successful applicants will be notified before Christmas. For further information visit, Executive Leadership Program (XLP).

Congratulations to our 2017 XLP graduates.

29 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

NEWS

Councils support our online learning ›

LGPro’s customised online learning continues to prove popular with the sector with 18 Councils now signed up for one of more of our modules and many others are currently considering our courses.

A key objective when we started

harassment, equal employment

Councils are also pleased that

delivering online learning about 18

opportunity, fraud prevention and

programs can be tailored to their

months ago was to ensure it was

awareness and Victorian Charter of

needs. Whitehorse Council now

of a high standard, relevant to the

Human Rights and Responsibilities,

uses two customised modules

sector and accessible to all Councils

plus customised Induction modules

we developed for their induction

regardless of their size. So, we are

and Child Safe Standards.

program for new staff. Videos

particularly pleased that two groups of rural Councils have now taken up our Shared Services offering.

LGPro CEO, David Preiss believes the online learning offering has been well received by Councils

featuring Whitehorse staff and scenarios were produced for the two modules to give them a real Whitehorse look and feel.

Child Safe Standards (CSS), which

because it is customised to Local

we added after being contacted

Government. “Right from the start

We currently have other online

by Councils asking us to develop

we made sure we had a high level

modules in development and

something that was affordable and

of engagement from Council officers

are keen to talk to Councils

relevant, has also been popular with

in the development of the modules

about their specific online

13 Councils now using this course.

to ensure they were relevant and

learning needs. Click here for

we have received positive feedback

more information or contact

on the Local Government specific

David Preiss on (03) 9268 6400.

Our stable of online learning courses includes the original Compliance Suite covering information privacy, OH&S, workplace bullying and

examples used in the delivery of the programs as they make them easier to relate to,” he said.

Sector plays an active role in Local Government Act review › LGPro Members and people working in the sector have played an active role in advocating for the future of Local Government through their involvement in the first review of the Local Government Act for 28 years.

Our members have played a

refine the directions. The advice

Technical Working Groups

vital role in the two submissions

provided will hopefully result in a

constituted the third phase

that LGPro has prepared during

clearer Bill which will work better

of consultation with the sector

the review by providing us with

for Councils and communities.

following the release of the

information and their feedback.

Councils have also provided

Discussion Paper in 2015 and the Directions Paper in 2016.

We also had Local Government

feedback to the government on

representatives on each of the

the 157 key reforms that have been

The new Bill remains on track for

seven technical workings groups

suggested. Thirty Councils provided

release of an Exposure Draft Bill

convened by Local Government

submissions on the proposed

in December this year when the

Victoria. The groups met in June

reforms before the deadline on

sector will have further opportunity

and July 2017 to provide advice to

30 July 2017.

to comment before it is put to

the government on how to further

30 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Parliament in 2018.

PROGRAM NEWS

Outdoor workers on the same page ›

Matt McClymont, Conservation Programs Coordinator at Greater Dandenong City Council, is the first to admit that he was a little hesitant walking into the first session of LGPro’s inaugural Ignite for Outdoor Workers program earlier this year.

By his own admission, he did

• Every team has different

The content and case studies used

not know much about the new

personality types and it is

are relevant to outdoor workers

program apart from the fact that his

important to consider these and

and the duties they perform and

manager had put him forward for it.

work out each team member’s

participants are provided with

strengths and weaknesses and

examples they can take back and

recognise these so the team can

use in their workplace setting.

As he had only been in a supervisor’s role for 12 months and is responsible for five staff, Matt was hoping to learn some

work together more effectively • It is important to involve team

The program is held over four sessions at LGPro’s offices at level

tips and tools on how to manage

members in decision making.

3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

people, but as the course wound

Since the course he has involved

The two programs held this year

up last month he says he has

his team for the first time in the

have been fully booked and

walked away with so much more.

decision making process on

attended by outdoors workers

what plants to use in their

from across the state.

“The program was fantastic and

major planting project with

I have taken away so much from

fantastic results

it,” he said. “The fact that it was tailored to people working in outdoor workers roles was great

• Collaboration with your team members is important.

as it was like everyone was on

Matt says the course has made

the same page and could relate

him more confident in his role

to the examples provided.”

and has given him the inspiration

Matt said the other major bonus

to further improve his leadership

was that everyone in the room was experiencing the same issues.

“It was like we were all on the one

About the Ignite for Outdoor Workers program

knew exactly what others were

The program is based on our

talking about,” he said.

successful Ignite program which

everyone was happy to share their problems and how they had dealt with them.”

Matt said some of the main learnings he had taken away from the program were:

on (03) 9268 6400.

else who would benefit from

same issues and problems. As we

“And the good thing was that

information or contact LGPro

forward to my manager someone the course,” he said.

nodding in agreement as they all

in 2018, click here for further

skills. “And I have already put

ship and were dealing with the went around the room people kept

Further programs are planned

is a leadership learning pathway for supervisors and team leaders working in Councils.

It has been adapted specifically for outdoor workers who are new or with limited experienced in a supervisory role, have no previous formal leadership training and want to extend and update their

Matt McClymont on the job.

leadership skills or are interested in moving into a supervisory role in the future.

31 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

2017 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE – $1.5 MILLION & UNDER

Ballarat City Council, Victoria Park Inclusive Playspace The Victoria Park Inclusive Playspace has further enhanced one of Ballarat’s most significant parklands and delivered an innovative play, social and recreational environment for everyone in the community to enjoy.

The state of the art playspace design is incorporated within the parkland’s best features. Amongst the existing avenue of trees and open green space is a $1.5 million, 10,000 square metre, fenced, regional sized playspace with many accessible play zones and key infrastructure including barbecues, shade, picnic tables and amenities including a ‘Changing Places’ facility.

Ballarat is a major regional city in western Victoria and a tourist destination that is experiencing continued growth. The City of Ballarat has more open space and parkland assets than any other regional city in Victoria but until now had none that provided for a wide range of users, particularly people with a disability.

Victoria Park boasts extremely valuable parkland positioned in a central location, in close proximity to Ballarat’s growth zone, schools, transport and is on a major thoroughfare. Despite the ideal location, Victoria Park lacked critical infrastructure to make it a destination of choice.

Aligning and addressing these issues required a strategic approach, one that Council’s Disability Advisory Committee accomplished, advocating and imbedding the importance of an ‘inclusive playspace’ into the Council Plan, Health and Wellbeing Plan and the Victoria Park Visioning.

The Disability Advisory Committee convinced Council to commit partial funding in its 2013/14 budget to initiate the project which provided Council with the opportunity to deliver on two

32 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

strategic objectives – providing Ballarat’s first ‘accessible’ playspace and activating informal parkland usage.

To raise the remaining funding Council embraced an innovative and unique funding model involving a partnership between Local Government, State Government, business, community and the philanthropic foundation Touched by Olivia.

An absorbing three years followed.

Overcoming the barrier of funding required persistent lobbying, strong leadership and tireless fundraising efforts by Council and the community. These efforts were rewarded when the original $1 million project budget was surpassed with almost $1.5 million being secured from a variety of sources including generous contributions from the State Government, Central Highlands Water, Council, community and businesses.

Once the funding was secured the Council and community worked collaboratively providing input into the planning, design, equipment selection and sustainability of the project. The outcome delivered innovative, universally designed and accessible play opportunities featuring a double flying fox, carousel, musical zone

and all year round passive/imaginative and sensory water play precinct.

Since opening in March 2016, schools, kindergartens, childcare groups, community members and tourists have regularly utilised the play space as a destination of choice activating Victoria Park.

The initiative highlights the collective efforts of Council and community working in partnership to achieve an extraordinary piece of community infrastructure. The playspace has created a community asset, where social inclusion and diversity occurs, ensuring full integration of children and families and creates an environment that promotes the idea of connectedness.

Maribyrnong City Council, Revitalisation of Maidstone Tennis Courts & Heritage Pavilion This project transformed a dormant, decommissioned site that was in a state of disrepair into an integrated open space catering for a range of passive and recreational uses. An extensive community consultation process drove the development plan for the site. After overcoming a number of barriers during construction the outcome is an integrated, active open space and community facility which includes the refurbished 100 year heritage listed tennis pavilion, two acrylic free to public tennis courts and a landscaped public park.

Ararat Rural City Council, Pomonal Hall Renewal Project A strong working partnership between State Government, Local Government and passionate community members helped deliver the much anticipated Pomonal Hall project. The majority of the funding for the $1.06 million project was made up of Victorian State Government funding of $485,000 and $400,000 from Ararat Rural City Council, as well as $100,000 of cash and in kind work from the community. The commitment shown by all parties during the planning and construction phase helped ensure a successful project and a modern facility that the entire community is proud to call their own. The project is a prime example of how great results can be achieved when community works collaboratively with government.

Kingston City Council, Mordialloc Preschool This new state of the art centre doubled capacity within limited space, retained outdoor play areas and was sensitive to the local environment – all within set budget and timelines. Officially opened in April 2016, the preschool accommodates 66 places, up from 27, housed in a modern early learning facility that embraces innovative design to provide high quality teaching spaces while respecting the surrounding environment. Construction of the new building cost $1.43 million. The project was jointly funded by Council and the State Government. By embracing innovative design solutions, the project created a high quality building that provides early learning facilities that respect and celebrate the surrounding reserve and Mordialloc Creek environment.

Moreland City Council, Redevelopment of Bush Reserve It’s not every day that a brand new park is built in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. Located approximately nine kilometres from Melbourne’s GPO, Bush Reserve is Coburg’s newest green space.

It is approximately 7,300 square metres (1.8 acres) of public open space built on the site of an old Council depot, with a rich and intriguing history. It was admirable that Moreland City Council retained the Public Park and Recreation Zoning (PPRZ) rather than head down the path of further subdivision, rezoning and built form development. This strategic decision has ensured that the local community have access to much needed parkland now and for the future. Feedback received from the community on the new park has been overwhelmingly positive.

Moyne Shire Council, Mailors Flat Community Hub Following an extensive planning project between Moyne Shire Council and the Mailors Flat Community, this hub was designed and constructed to cater for a range of community needs. The objective of the project, which cost just over $500,000, was to design a community space that catered for a young and growing community, as well as for the Mailors Flat Tennis Club and passing traffic. The project is an outstanding example of collaborative community planning that responds to the current and future needs of a small community. The community now enjoys an excellent array of facilities where they can gather and socialise, children can play safely and both formal and informal activities take place.

PROFILE SPRING 2017 | 33

2017 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE – OVER $1.5 MILLION

Latrobe City Council, Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Project – Stage 1 The Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Project is an exciting, long term urban renewal project. Latrobe City Council has delivered the first stage which includes a library, community meeting rooms, Council services centre, cafe, community kitchen, maternal and child health and consulting rooms, a large public plaza and public access green roof.

The striking modern architecture and design focused on sustainability and the use of natural materials has been embraced by the local community.

The project has set a tone for continued investment in Moe and provides infrastructure and services that will support the Moe community for decades to come.

This project aimed to revitalise Moe’s Central Business District (CBD) by delivering important community infrastructure.

The following drivers underpinned the need to invest in the revitalisation of Moe: •

Moe is unable to satisfy a range of comparable liveability indicators

•

Moe town centre was failing to attract a proportionate share of public and private investment and regional expenditure

•

Moe residents were dissatisfied with town amenity, connectedness and functionality.

In response to these drivers, the project aimed for the following key outcomes: •

To create a precinct that facilitates community cohesion and interaction with learning facilities, meeting facilities, civic services, good access, public transport, sport, play and recreation areas, all designed to be complementary to each other and their surrounds

•

To enable Moe to achieve population growth rates comparable to other regional cities

34 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

•

To create a sense of arrival and sense of place at Moe rail precinct

•

Continue implementation of the Moe Activity Centre Plan

•

To provide the means to attract third party investment in Moe

•

To enhance the liveability and vibrancy of the Moe town centre

•

A new Civic Hub will provide access to a modern learning and research facility for people of all ages, from all backgrounds

The project has been planned for a number of years and has had setbacks with funding opportunities missed due to changing political environments.

But through persistence, Latrobe City Council delivered stage 1 which has seen the heart of Moe given a new lease of life and an old barrier between north and south Moe removed.

This is a project of urban renewal and delivery of inspirational community infrastructure in an important regional town. It underpins the invigorated optimism for the revitalisation of Moe as a welcoming, growing and well serviced town along a major transport corridor.

The project stimulated much community interest during its development and construction and has now been overwhelmingly embraced. Latrobe City Council has delivered a world class facility in regional Victoria that will benefit the Moe and broader Latrobe Valley community for decades to come.

Swan Hill Rural City Council, Heartbeat of the Murray This initiative has revitalised the Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill through three distinct projects: •

Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Show, a state of the art sound and light spectacular set on the banks of the Little Murray River using water as the medium to interpret the story of the Murray River

•

Reinvigorating the day product, bringing to life static displays through the use of a smartphone app that activates augmented reality at wi-fi hotspots

•

Commercial facilities, upgrading infrastructure at the Lower Murray Inn to create a premier outdoor entertainment area and turning the dormant Dumosa Hall into a unique cafe experience.

The objectives were to: •

Increase the number of visitors to the Pioneer Settlement

•

Increase the yield from visitors to Swan Hill

•

Stimulate private sector investment in the Pioneer Settlement and Swan Hill Riverfront

•

Sustain the existing economic benefits attributed to the Pioneer Settlement

•

Create new employment opportunities within the Pioneer Settlement and along the riverfront

•

Provide an improved financial outcome for Council from the Pioneer Settlement operations.

The redevelopment has provided direct and indirect economic benefit to the region, created jobs and stimulated private sector investment in the Pioneer Settlement. Since the changes, the visitor numbers have increased and are on target to meet an increase of 20 per cent this year.

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO LGPro has developed an information kit to raise awareness about who we are and what we do. The kit has been distributed to all 79 Councils across the state.

It contains information about: • LGPro membership • The broad range of professional development programs we offer • Our conferences, forums, seminars, awards and other events • The advocacy work we do for all people working in the sector • Information about our 30 Special Interest Groups where people working in similar fields meet to network and share best practice.

For more information about LGPro visit www.lgpro.com or call us on (03) 9268 6400.

LGPro CEO, David Preiss said while many people working in Local Government were aware of LGPro, they didn’t realise the breadth of the work the organisation did.

“Not only are we the leading voice and member association for people working in the sector, we offer a broad range of activities that can help people progress their careers,” he said.

“We also advocate to other levels of government to represent the interests of people working in Local Government with a credible and independent voice. We want to ensure the sector provides input to important government plans and strategies when they are being formulated.”

David said LGPro was working hard on special advocacy campaigns including increasing the representation of women in senior roles and improving the protection for authorised officers working in the sector.

PROFILE SPRING 2017 | 35

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Professional development delivered on your doorstep ›

An increasing number of Councils across the state are taking advantage of the opportunity to have LGPro programs customised and delivered at their Council.

A total of 30 Council only courses

Corangamite Shire has had

“The development of soft skills

are being run this year, compared

customised LGPro Ignite and

(emotional intelligence, managing

with 21 in 2016. The most popular

Mastering Management programs

change, etc), is essential in a

programs are Core Financial Skills,

delivered in house. The Council’s

contemporary workplace. Often

Induction to Local Government,

leadership group (CEO, Directors,

staff transition into a more senior

Local Government Report Writing

Managers) participated in Mastering

role because of their technical

and Thinking Career and Leadership.

Management over six months

capabilities,” David said.

LGPro staff and facilitators have delivered the programs at metropolitan, regional and smaller rural Councils.

Manager of Professional Development, Leanne Bickley said it often makes more sense for some Councils, particularly those a long way from the city, to run programs on site. “Given the cost and time it takes for their staff to travel to the city for professional development, there are a number

commencing late 2013 and backed it up with a “refresher” in 2016.

Participants found both beneficial with the 2016 program keeping the momentum going from learnings obtained in 2013.

“The programs offered by LGPro fills the gaps by equipping staff with skills to better lead and manage their teams. Participation in the programs allows individuals to come together in a relaxed

Team Leaders and Coordinators

environment which has been

participated in the Ignite program

beneficial in building the social

in early 2017. Director of Corporate

muscle of the organisation. This

Services, David Rae said while some

translates into more effective

found the course challenging, most

working relationships and improved

were positive and complimentary

organisational performance.”

of the learnings.

For further information on

of Councils that prefer us to come

David said they liked the fact that

having a tailored program run

to them and that is fine,” she said.

the course content was customised

at your Council call LGPro on

to meet their organisation’s needs,

(03) 9268 6400 and ask to speak

the program delivery was flexible

to one of the programs staff.

Leanne said Councils also appreciated the fact that the programs can be tailored to their Council using case studies and examples that their staff can relate to.

and the facilitators were adaptive and modified the style and content to suit the participants.

Participants in a recent Thinking Career and Leadership program which was customised for Latrobe City Council.

37 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM

The ‘fabulous five’ emerging leaders ›

Five young women who completed LGPro’s Emerging Leaders Program in 2010 walked away with a special bond that has seen them share both their professional and personal lives ever since.

Genevieve O’Sullivan, Tanya McAlpin, Shivaun Brown, Tara Choudari and Katherine Collette have kept in regular contact over the ensuing years and recently all got together to celebrate Genevieve’s wedding.

Below they talk about their careers, their experience with ELP and most importantly their friendship.

(formerly Moloney), Manager Community Care and Accesscare Southern, Kingston City Council Genevieve started her working life as an occupational therapist but moved into Local Government 10 years ago.

She said ELP allowed her to reflect on leadership styles and behaviours within the workplace, what was and was not working, and understand what this may be causing. “The experiential learning style of the program was invaluable as we were encouraged to take away the practical activities and use these within our team so the experience to a degree could be shared.”

Genevieve said ELP reminded her to continually challenge the status quo, to think bigger and beyond the day to day tasks. Through the program, she grew in confidence and better understood her strengths and areas for development.

From a personal perspective, Genevieve said the friendships developed from the program had been an unexpected and valued gift. “Despite the distance Katherine, Siobhan, Tanya, Tara and I catch up as often as we can but it is never enough!”

Manager Development Services Murrindindi Shire Council Shivaun worked at the Rural City of Wangaratta from 2007 until 2014. She left to do consulting work for 12 months but missed the team atmosphere so in 2015 joined Murrindindi Shire Council.

She says ELP helped to “solidify my early love of my job into a clear desire to have a career in the sector – to see the myriad of opportunities the sector provides, and to clearly articulate my love for making a difference in the community through my work. It helped me to make priceless connections and establish supportive and practical relationships.”

On the social side, Shivaun said the five women had enjoyed many different activities since completing the program.

“Frankly, I’d be lost without my Emerging Leaders group both professionally and personally, they have added another element to my life and I love them with all my heart and respect each of them for being the incredible, smart and dedicated women they are.”

Leisure and Aquatic Facilities Manager Maroondah City Council Tara worked in a number of roles in the Leisure Department at Yarra City Council before moving into her current role at to Maroondah which she finds extremely fulfilling as it combines her passion for health and wellbeing with working for the community in the Local Government setting.

For Tara, the best part about ELP the program was the connections she made. “I have found that having a network of people to lean on for solutions has been invaluable. Whether I am looking for a facilitator for a development program or simply a sounding board for something complex, I have an army of leaders to access for guidance. It was an incredible program. I still have flashbacks of moments that make me smile, laugh and at times cringe. The relationships and skills I developed during the program were invaluable.”

Seven years on she considers her ELP friends some of the most beautiful people in her life. “I have made connections with people who inspire me, celebrate my achievements alongside me and generally make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside whenever a catch-up is near. Reflecting on these memories makes me feel very happy as I made lifelong friends that I would have never met if not for the program.”

Visitation Manager Winton Wetlands Tanya worked in a number of roles at the Rural City of Wangaratta since in 2008. She left earlier this year to take the position as Visitation Manager at Winton Wetlands, a 8,750 hectare restoration project of cultural, environmental and scientific significance.

Tanya jokes that she signed up for ELP as “I heard you got free donuts!” Though seriously she saw it as a challenge and chance to grow. “It also gave me the chance to be courageous – to believe in myself. The abilities I developed have opened doors that have led to great opportunities. It was a brilliant program. The relationships and skills I developed during the program were and still are invaluable.”

She says their group of five have always managed a timely catch up – wherever it might be. “Our friendship is one of those that you read about – we pick up where we left off, with no animosity about time or distance. There is hilarity, kindness and respect at every instance - like a brilliantly written friendship fairytale.”

(formerly Kucharski), Engineer, Yarra Valley Water Katherine started her professional career as an environmental engineer, then moved into social policy at Whitehorse Council. She is now back working in engineering at Yarra Valley Water. An interesting aside, Katherine has been working on a novel for a few years and recently signed a two book deal with Text Publishing. Her first book will be released next year and it’s set in a Council of all places.

She said ELP gave her a better understanding of how she works and, to some extent, who she is. “I learned more in ELP than I have in any other professional development program or uni course I’ve done. It was like going to a long running series of interesting TED talks and discussing it with your friends afterwards.”

As far as the long term friendships she made with Tara, Tanya, Shivaun and Genevieve through the program she says: “We all just like each other. They’re smart, interesting, funny women. We laugh a lot when we’re together. “

From left, Tanya McAlpin, Katherine Collette, Genevieve Maloney, Shivaun Brown and Tara Choudari.

Nominations for 2018 ELP open on Wednesday 20 September and close on Friday 27 October. for more information visit Emerging Leaders Program.

39 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

NETWORKING WITH OTHERS

Young Professionals speed networking event review

By Graham Haylock, Whittlesea City Council

›

Speed networking: two words that set off a number of red flags in this shy introvert’s mind. Was it going to be an evening where I was expected to have an awkward conversation (or sit in uncomfortable silence) with a new person every couple of minutes?

Were we going to be quizzed and matched up at the end of the night based on our networking compatibility?

Was there an app that could achieve the same objective – swiping left or right through potential contacts without the need to initially meet in person?

What do the quotation marks on ‘professional’ mean?!

I am happy to report that it

Council), Clare McCartin

was the right decision!

(General Manager, Davidson),

These are just a few of the

In a relaxed Christmas in July

thoughts that came to mind

themed setting (with an entertaining

when I received the invitation

mix of background music ranging

via email to attend the LGPro

from carols to Hanson’s “MMMBop”),

Much to my relief, we were split into

Young Professionals Network’s

a keen group of young professionals

five groups which rotated between

Friends with Professional

were privileged to have the

each mentor every 15 minutes.

Benefits speed networking event.

opportunity to listen, ask questions

This gave ample time to hear from

and interact with five excellent

each mentor, who were all most

guest mentors: Sharon Hutchinson

generous and candid in providing

(Director People & Culture, EPA

advice and sharing their stories.

Victoria), Dr Nerina Di Lorenzo (CEO,

I am sure all who attended were

Moreland City Council), Aaron van

thankful that the mentors gave up

Egmond (CEO, Hepburn Shire

their time to attend the event.

So, it was with a degree of social anxiety that I decided to challenge my comfort zone and registered to attend my first LGPro Young Professionals Network event.

and Christian Stefani (Coordinator Governance & Engagement, Bass Coast Shire Council).

Krysten Evans from Baw Baw Shire introduces the guest mentors.

The young professionals broke into groups to speak with the guest mentors.

40 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Bradley Thomas from Mt Alexander Shire with Georgia Borland from HR Legal which sponsored the event.

David Hair, Maroondah Council and Rheanna Christodoulou, Wyndham Council.

PROUD SPONSORS OF THIS EVENT:

What I took away from the evening Here are a few pearls of wisdom (highly paraphrased) from the conversations that resonated with me: • Do not choose to take yourself out of the running for a job you are interested in because you believe you do not meet enough of the selection criteria – it is not for you to decide if you are suitable for the job; it is for the recruiter to decide. Although this was more directed to the women in the room (who are statistically more likely to hold back from applying for a job if they believe they do not meet the majority, if not all, the section criteria), I found this to be a profound mindset change (their decision;

not yours). Also, unexpected opportunities may come simply from putting yourself out there • Capitalise on opportunities to develop skills outside of your field of expertise – seek them out, consider secondments, do not limit yourself to what you know • Continuous learning – invest in yourself. Do not be restricted by what your organisation offers, take initiative and pay for a course yourself – e.g. a PRINCE2 or LEAN course may be a good idea if you want to move into a senior management role • Networking is important – your next career move may come through someone you know. It could be a connection made through an LGPro event, a fellow participant in the Emerging Leaders Program,

or a connection through one of the LGPro Special Interest Groups. Become involved in the sector and take advantage of all opportunities to make new connections.

At the end of the formalities there was time for the young professionals to continue networking and this reinforced to me the true value of these events.

I met new people from a wide range of professions who I would never have had the chance to meet if it was not for this opportunity.

Business cards were exchanged; new LinkedIn connections made.

With my initial fears never realised, I am looking forward to and highly recommend others attend the next event.

About Graham In 2004, I began my professional career at the City of Whittlesea in a graduate management accounting role fresh out of university. Working in a supporting environment, I honed my finance skills and sought out (and was encouraged to take advantage of) a number of development opportunities including a secondment to another finance team. In 2012, these opportunities lead me to be the successful applicant for my current role – Management Accounting Coordinator – where my key responsibility is coordinating the annual budget process.

My first exposure to LGPro (and the reason I became a member) was because I was fortunate enough to be selected to participate in the 2016 LGPro Emerging Leaders Program (ELP). Throughout my Local Government career, I have predominantly attended finance focused events, so I have really enjoyed the change in meeting people from a wide range of disciplines (who actually have personalities! #joke).

Having enjoyed this exposure to LGPro and the new networking opportunities it created, I decided to renew my membership. In addition to attending a Young Professionals Network event, I have volunteered to be a mentor for the Mentoring Program, where I hope to pass on some of my learnings from ELP.

LGPRO CORPORATE PARTNERS NETWORKING EVENT Thursday, 12 October from 5.30pm- 7.15pm Richmond Town Hall, 333 Bridge Road, Richmond LGPro Corporate Partners are invited to bounce around ideas and seek frank advice from LGPro Board Members and selected senior people from within the Local Government sector.

It is run as a speed networking event with additional time for general networking. Remember to bring your

business cards on the night to provide to the Local Government representatives in attendance.

Note: This event is only for 2017/18 financial Corporate Partners.

For further information contact Vicki Amiguet on (03) 9268 6400.

LGPro’s diverse membership LGPro has a diverse membership made up of people working at all levels of Local Government in both metropolitan, regional and rural Councils.

They have many drivers for joining with many of our more experienced Fellow Members generally wanting to give back and share their knowledge with others in the sector, while our Young Professionals can see that LGPro can open doors for them and help them to progress their career.

Some of our Members share their stories below.

Venkat Peteti General Manager Corporate and Community Services, Central Goldfields Shire Council (LGPro Fellow) Venkat has worked in diverse roles at four Councils over the past 10 years. His Local Government journey started at the City of Melbourne in a contract role in finance, then after 11 months he moved to Yarra Ranges Council as a Systems Accountant.

After three years in that role, he moved into the role of Executive Officer for Capital Works and Asset Management at Yarra Ranges for three years. From there he went to West Wimmera Shire Council as General Manager Corporate and Community Services for four and half years before recently moving to Central Goldfields Shire Council in the same role.

He says attending LGPro training, seminars and workshops has helped his continuous learning journey and the SIGs have provided invaluable knowledge and support. Venkat is now giving back by sharing his expertise as a mentor in LGPro’s Mentoring Program to help develop future sector leaders.

Venkat lists his Local Government career highlights as having the opportunity to work in diverse settings and to work with some great leaders in the sector. “I really enjoy learning from leaders and working for a rural Council also gives me the chance to work very closely with the community and implement place based solutions in a constrained financial environment.“ His advice to young people starting out is “don’t hesitate to take risks and accept challenges. I have met great people and learned many great things to support my leadership journey as I was prepared to take risks.”

And in retrospect he would tell his younger self to focus more on building networks and collaboration.

Robbie Colosimo Acting Coordinator Youth and Community Partnerships, Banyule City Council (LGPro Member) Robbie has spent the majority of her 15 year Local Government career in early childhood services, although in her current role she coordinates youth services, community safety, graffiti management, metro access and community grants. She is also a Deputy Municipal Recovery Manager which involves emergency planning and assisting emergency relief and recovery activities across Banyule. Her career highlight has been developing and implementing Banyule’s Leading Innovation Program which brings together emerging leaders from within the organisation to lead collaborative and innovative workplace projects.

Robbie is a member of LGPro’s Family, Youth and Children Services SIG which helps her to connect with her peers in other Councils and share examples of best practice. She also enjoys attending the Women’s Professional Development Forum to build new relationships through networking and professional development and learn from the invigorating discussions and thinking.

42 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

“I find that being an LGPro Member is a great way to network, build partnership opportunities and also rejuvenate my energy levels. It is has widened my lens, not only in terms of what is happening within my own organisation, but more broadly across other organisations,” she said.

“The training opportunities are relevant and consistent with what’s happening across the sector, which importantly means I can be more skilled, engaged and proactive at work, and am always looking for ways that I can continually improve what we do.”

Robbie is proud to be working in a sector that helps to make a difference in the community. She also values the opportunities and continuous learning that comes with working in Local Government and enjoys being part of and leading teams that develop strong cultural practices, think strategically and contribute positively to building strong, resilient communities.

Michael Byrne Manager Arts, Community Learning and Libraries, Maribyrnong City Council (LGPro Fellow) Michael celebrates a successful 45 year career in the sector this year having worked for nine Local Government organisations.

His career began in 1972 at the then Moorabbin City Council working in libraries. Michael says he chose to work in a library as he wanted to give great service back to the community, a decision he has never regretted. He moved to Carringbush Regional Library as a Children’s and Youth Services Librarian in 1981 where he, along with a magnificent group of staff, were involved in developing a new library for the communities of Richmond and Collingwood, to this day he regards these as his “best years ever.” In 2007 he was appointed as Manager Community Learning & Libraries at Maribyrnong and more recently to his current role.

Despite his long career Michael aspires to keep learning daily and says being a member of LGPro has helped him do this.

“I feel proud to be an LGPro member and attend the high calibre of events and programs on offer. The variety of Special Interest Groups (SIGS) are a fabulous way to meet others, they strengthen our ability to network and offer an opportunity to seek advice,” he said.

Michael is a great advocate for a career in Local Government that he believes plays a vital role by offering a broad range of services to communities. “We need talented people out there to deliver and be leaders, and you have the opportunity to change people’s lives. I am very grateful that I have had a marvellous career in Local Government, I have had great mentors along my journey who have supported and guided me to where I am today. I sincerely thank them all.”

Joshua Williams Customer Service Officer, Darebin City Council (Young Professional Member) Joshua has been working in customer services at Darebin for just over two years. This is essentially his first job after graduating from university and he is loving working for an organisation that aligns with his values.

sure in years to come I will get a lot of benefit from my LGPro membership through access to events, networking, training and best practice resources.”

In the short time he has worked at Darebin, Joshua has also had great opportunities to work on other projects including the review of the Council’s multilingual services and the overhaul of the complaints handling policy. He says the biggest challenge has been negotiating the balance between delivering a service to the community’s standards and needs, while working with colleagues and an organisation that can at times be reluctant or fearful of change.

Joshua believes Local Government is a great career path for young professionals because it allows them to very directly serve the community, while also having the benefit of working in a large supportive organisation.

Joshua’s first introduction to LGPro came when he attended the Induction to Local Government program for staff new to the sector.

“As someone very new to the industry this taught me a lot. I am

“Young professionals have a lot to offer the sector through their well developed skills and capabilities, and the fact they take a fresh look on old problems. I’ve found my cohort to be generally driven by values and highly educated. From my perspective there can be an overvaluing of experience and undervaluing of skills, so I would encourage those hiring staff to look beyond experience only,” he said.

NEW TO THE SECTOR – WE HAVE YOU COVERED LGPro Individual Membership is taken up by Local Government professionals working at all levels, whether they are new to the sector, looking to go to the next level, or are within senior leadership teams.

As soon as new people join the sector we want them to feel supported. So, from 1 July 2017 we are welcoming those who join the sector and who complete our Induction to Local Government program with a complimentary one year LGPro Individual Membership.

Through this membership you can gain another perspective of the sector as a whole and consider your role within Local

Government, as well as take advantage of all of the benefits of LGPro Individual Membership straight away. These benefits include: member discounts to a comprehensive suite of professional development programs, access to member only opportunities and resources, being able to have a say in issues that matter through LGPro’s advocacy work, as well as being put in touch with a professional community and networks that will support and inspire you to thrive in your Local Government career.

If you have any queries regarding LGPro Membership don’t hesitate to contact Michelle Cox on either (03) 9268 6400 or michellec@lgpro.com

LGPro supporting people working in Local Government, at all stages of their career

MEMBER NEWS

Welcome to new Individual Members ›

We would like to welcome the following new members who joined LGPro between 1 March 2017 and 14 August 2017. We look forward to working with you to shape our wonderful sector.

Abbey Franklyn, Technical Officer, Glen Eira City Council

Dan Ferguson, Senior Health Planner, Port Phillip City Council

Jon Gorst, Manager Strategic Finance, Moonee Valley City Council

Amanda Mills, Property Coordinator, Glen Eira City Council

Daniel Davison, Manager Aquahub, Maroondah City Council

Jorene Walsh, Coordinator Home Support Program, Moonee Valley City Council

Angelique Lush, Director Development & Planning, Ballarat City Council

Daniel Haile-Michael, Community Project Engineer, Hindmarsh Shire Council

Julie Glass, Coordinator City Strategy, Warrnambool City Council

Ann Pitt, Executive Manager Active Ageing, Ballarat City Council

Daniel Maltar, Team Leader Public Safety & Security, Greater Dandenong City Council

Karen Hayes, Property Services Unit Manager, Yarra City Council

Antwanette Xuereb, Reporting & Improvement Analyst, Wyndham City Council

Danijela Bura Aiken, Coordinator Community Support, Moonee Valley City Council

Karina Strybosch, Senior Corporate, Information Manager, South Gippsland Shire Council

Brendan Eager, Project Management Support, Boroondara City Council

Darryn Hartnett, Agribusiness & Economic Development, Loddon Shire Council

Kelly Delaney, EA Mayor & Councillors and CEO, Yarra Ranges Council

Bridgette McDougall, Strategic Waste Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council

Elizabeth Shield, Environmental Community Development Officer, Hume City Council

Kerrie Bell, Manager Rates & Information, Horsham Rural City Council

Bridie Jones, Venues Coordinator (Acting), Yarra City Council Brooke Pearce, Manager – Waste Services, Greater Bendigo City Council Brooke Templeton, Principal Strategic Planner, Cardinia Shire Council Caroline Foster, Coordinator Civic Support, Ballarat City Council

Emma Young, Executive Assistant, Director Corporate Performance, Greater Bendigo City Council Erin Hart, Aged & Disability Supervisor, Baw Baw Shire Council Erin Wayman, Organics Project Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council

Charlie Bird, CEO, Alpine Shire Council

Holly Dillabough, Environmental Policy Officer, Melton City Council

Claire Rock, Acting EO Family & Children’s Services, Yarra Ranges Council

Jasmine Graham, Coordinator Assessment & Care Planning, Moonee Valley City Council

Colleen McHendrie, Aged & Disability Service Delivery, Baw Baw Shire Council

Jill Karena, Manager Community & Culture, Macedon Ranges Shire Council

44 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Kim Fitzgerald, Team Leader Community Services, Moira Shire Council Kirsty James, Human Resources Business Partner, Glen Eira City Council Lauren Holst, Community Engagement Advisor, Maribyrnong City Council Lawrie Conole, Coordinator Environmental Services, Melton City Council Leanne Dalla-Vecchia, Unit Manager – Assessment Services, Moreland City Council Leanne Deans, Manager City Strategy, Brimbank City Council Libby Gott, Community Arts Facilitator, Mornington Peninsula Shire

Linda Harman, Coordinator Community Engagement Programs, Darebin City Council

Nigel McCombe, Head of Major Projects & Buildings, Whitehorse City Council

Samantha Krull, Director Infrastructure Environment and Leisure, Glen Eira City Council

Lynne Habner, Executive Assistant To CEO, Loddon Shire Council

Penni Ellicott, Coordinator Grants/Emergency Management, South Gippsland Shire Council

Shadi Hanna, Manager Aged and Disability, Darebin City Council

MaryAnn Adams, Senior Planning and Performance Consultant, Melbourne City Council Melissa Harris, Executive Manager, Service and Business Improvement, Port Phillip City Council Monica Revell, Finance & Customer Services Manager, Hindmarsh Shire Council Natalie Smyth, Senior Coordinator Healthy Ageing, Moonee Valley City Council Nathan Morsillo, Manager Financial Strategy, Greater Bendigo City Council Nicole Labruna, Coordinator Sport, Recreation and Community Facilities, Greater Dandenong City Council

Peter Todd, Ground Maintenance Coordinator, Glen Eira City Council Ram Upadhyaya, Assets Engineer, Horsham Rural City Council Richard Stone, Manager Capacity Access & Inclusion, Warrnambool City Council Robert Kisgen, Team Leader Business Improvement, Whittlesea City Council Robyn Russell, Executive Assistant To CEO, Maribyrnong City Council Rochelle Gore, Online Communications Officer, Wyndham City Council

Sharelle Knight, Executive Manager Family & Children Services, Ballarat City Council Sheree Callenberg, Events Officer, Latrobe City Council Simone Boer, Manager Strategy & Program Delivery, Greater Geelong City Council Terry Demeo, Director Infrastructure and Environment, Ballarat City Council Vanessa McLean, Senior Strategic Planner, Whitehorse City Council Vannessa Estigarribia, Aged & Disability, Baw Baw Shire Council

*This is not a full list of new members. Some members requested not to be listed.

THINKING OF BECOMING AN LGPRO MEMBER? Visit LGPro Individual Membership or call our office on (03) 9268 6400 and ask to speak to Michelle Cox our Membership Development Manager.

LGPRO MEMBER EVENT INVITATION Thursday 7 December, 6pm-8pm, Platform 28, 82 Village St, Docklands LGPro Individual Members are invited to this free event to celebrate another successful year and to network with your friends and colleagues in the sector.

Further information will be provided over the next few months.

45 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Focusing on continuous improvement and innovation ›

The Corporate Services Special Interest Group explored the theme of continuous improvement and innovation at a half day workshop on Friday 8 September.

Managers and executives

They enlisted a great line up of

Marianne Di Giallonardo, Rob

working in corporate services in

guest speakers including:

Lewis and Dianne Vrahnas from

Local Government met at Aon’s headquarters in the city to build on the momentum gained at their February workshop which focused on shared services.

• Graeme Emonson, Executive Director of Local Government Victoria who provided updates on the Local Government Act Review, Related Parties Disclosure

Continuous improvement and

and changes to the Evaluation

innovation can be contentious in

System relating to the Tax Bill

a government context particularly, when public money is being used so the SIG wanted the workshop to address questions including:

• David Preiss, CEO of LGPro who spoke about sector capacity building programs • Representative from Service Victoria who discussed

How do we make sure that ratepayers’ money is not wasted?

research they have conducted

How do we know that the innovation is a success?

with government

What if it does not go as planned?

into customer service, digital platforms and the relationship

Interesting case studies were presented by staff from Casey, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges Councils.

46 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Joelle McKay from Yarra Ranges spoke about Innovation Lead – The Innovation Experiment which provided the opportunity for more than 100 Council employees to come together, play with ideas and bring them to life!

Corporate Services SIG Convenor, Celia Haddock says feedback from the workshop was really positive.

She said it was in line with the SIG’s brief to addresses the strategic issues associated with corporate services and provide opportunities

Sally Curtain from Casey outlined

for targeted professional

the holistic transformation journey

development for people working in

her Council has undertaken to

this area in Local Government.

transform services centred Sally Curtain, Director Customer Focus & Innovation at Casey City Council was one of the presenters.

Maroondah discussed how they are working on capturing and reporting on the vast number of process improvement and innovation projects across the organisation, as well as systematically mapping their current organisational processes to improve effectiveness and efficiency.

solely around their customers.

Click here for more information on the Corporate Services SIG.

A life in Local Government ›

Joe Watkins has been working in Local Government since the early 1980s, so he’s seen his fair share of change. He has worked for six Councils across a range of portfolios and soon leaves his role as Coordinator of Community Laws at Whitehorse to retire.

Joe has been a Convenor of LGPro’s Statutory Services SIG and we thank him for his commitment to the sector.

Below Joe talks about his career in Local Government.

How long have you worked in Local Government, and what roles have you been employed in during this time?

I have been involved in Local Government for 36 plus years.

I commenced my career at Melbourne City Council as a parking officer, or more commonly called a grey ghost because the colour of the uniform was grey.

I left Melbourne after three years and joined the former Keillor Council, now Brimbank, as a parking and local laws officer.

I worked my way up the ranks and became the Manager of the Compliance Department and was there for 25 years. I left Brimbank and joined Mitchell Shire where I was a Manager of Environmental Services for three and a half years before being made redundant. I then spent 12 months at Nillumbik before finally joining Whitehorse City Council where I have been for the last four and a half years as the Coordinator of Community Laws.

What have been the highlights and achievements of your career in the sector?

The highlights to me have been working with numerous other Council officers on state-appointed committees and assisting the sector.

Joining LGPro and the Statutory Services SIG have also been very rewarding in assisting with the sector being recognised in the appropriate forums.

Have you taken any risks in your career? Did they pay off?

I believe my biggest risk was going to work at Mitchell and shifting my departmental portfolio. Reporting to me increased and I didn’t originally have the expertise in those areas, however the staff involved were all terrific and assisted me enormously and I must thank them all. The move certainly paid off as the staff and community at Mitchell were extremely welcoming and I was able to keep building my career from there.

What do you think that Local Government does well? And what can we do better at?

The service we provide to the community is of a very high level and provided by professional staff

who are committed to achieving good results for our communities.

However, we definitely need to get better at promoting what we do so our hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.

Have you enjoyed being a Convenor of the Statutory Services SIG? Did you face any challenges?

Being involved in the SIG has given me the confidence and knowledge that I could deal with any issue with the right support. Leading this group only reinforced that collectively we had a very vast and broad knowledge base in the room. The biggest challenge I faced was to try and increase the membership of the SIG with new faces and ideas to make it the best it can be.

What advice would you give to young professionals looking for a new career in Local Government?

Working in Local Government is like having a good ‘blue-chip share’ portfolio. Provided you do the right thing, you have the opportunity to work in the sector for life with plenty of training and career advancement opportunities that can be very rewarding.

Look out for LGPro Board election ballot papers We are pleased to report that we have received the largest field of candidates ever for the upcoming LGPro Board election. It’s great to see so many people interested in taking a leadership role in our work.

The votes will be counted the next day and the results should be known within a few days.

All financial LGPro Individual Members are eligible to vote. Voting will be managed electronically opening on Thursday 2 November and closing at 11.59pm on Wednesday 15 November.

For further information about the Board election contact David Preiss at LGPro on (03) 9268 6400 or email davidp@lgpro.com

The term of the current Board ends at the 2017 LGPro Annual Meeting on Thursday 7 December.

47 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

What’s happening in Local Government

External view of the new Casey stadium.

Pancakes grow on trees at Moonee Valley

›

Moonee Valley City Council staff planted indigenous shrubs at Montgomery Park in Essendon on World

Environment Day, and in return received a pancake and hot drink as a thank you for helping the environment.

Moonee Valley CEO, Bryan Lancaster said staff who normally spend their days at a desk or in meeting rooms

New stadium provides a win for local sport

were encouraged to take a walk and spend some time

›

than 70 staff planted around 1,000 native plants which

outdoors doing something for their community.

With the assistance of 10 Green Army members, more

Casey City Council celebrated the official opening of the $18 million stage one redevelopment of the Casey Indoor Leisure Centre, with the launch of Casey Stadium at Terry Vickerman Centre, on 6 August 2017.

• Multi-purpose/function room

• New change rooms and toilets

great to see so many staff take part in this healthy

City of Casey Mayor Cr Sam Aziz was joined by Terry Vickerman, State Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley MP and Anthony Neal from YMCA Victoria to officially open stage one of the redevelopment.

The redevelopment has delivered a state of the art facility where the community can enjoy a wide range of sport, recreation and leisure activities in a stadium that is regarded as one of the best in Victoria.

workplace team building activity.” Mr Lancaster said.

The project was primarily funded

by Council with a $650,000 contribution from the Victorian Government. It included the expansion and improvement of the netball and basketball facilities at the stadium to deliver:

Council is now rolling straight into stage two of the redevelopment at Casey Stadium with construction set to start on the establishment of a purpose-built regional gymnastics space and multi indoor sports facility including facilities for cricket and training lanes. The $4.73 million stage two will be mainly funded by Council with a $781,000 contribution from YMCA and a $650,000 contribution from the Victorian Government.

• Five new courts, including a premiere show court, bringing the total number of courts to 10 • Spectator seating for 1,500 people

• New foyer and entrance • Upgraded and additional car parking • Café/piazza

were flowering, prickly or bush to provide nectar, pollen and safe havens for insects and birds. Council staff also helped 30 children from Montgomery Park Children’s Centre plant shrubs in the park on the day.

“We have rejuvenated sections of the park and it was

Staff brought their own water in a reusable bottle, and hot beverages were supplied in mugs as the event was single-use plastic free in line with Council’s aim to reduce waste and help the environment.

The pancakes were provided by the Crepes for Change food truck which uses all profits to tackle youth homelessness.

The event was a great opportunity to showcase Council’s environmental programs to staff who don’t always get to see the great sustainability work other staff members are doing.

Moonee Valley staff hard at work on World Environment Day.

The new basketball courts.

48 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

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RATE YOUR EXPERIENCES Using the Ratings below, 1 - 5 represented by the emoji, please answer the following questions:

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Each month they answer 7 pre-determined questions using a five point rating scale (2–3 mins)

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JUNE 2016 Years at Council

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ALL QUESTIONS

3.1

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For more details contact Andrew Alford at Talent Architects e: andrew.alford@mcarthur.com.au t: (03) 9828 6565 w: www.mcarthur.life 49 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

Cameron Gray and Brandon Davis

Cameron Gray

›

Cameron Gray is an LGPro Board Member and the Deputy Director, Policy and Innovation at the City of Ballarat. Prior to taking up the role in Ballarat in May, he was Communications Coordinator – Digital and Brand at Yarra City Council. Cameron has worked in Local Government for almost 10 years across a broad range of areas including health protection, health promotion, community engagement, advocacy, communications and continuous improvement/digital transformation.

What he enjoys outside of work

Amusing situations he has faced at work

Family, fine wine, delicious food

Worked in environmental health for a period of time which had some amusing and frightful situations but don’t want you to lose your lunch.

and a night at the theatre.

The most famous person he has met I once had wine with Rhonda Burchmore at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, does that count? Also got a selfie with Michael Kirby at the LGPro Annual Conference a few years back.

›

Hidden talents I occasionally tread the boards and act in community theatre.

The last book he read Haven’t finished a book in a while.

Would have been Hard Choices

by Hillary Clinton or Confessions of a Qantas Flight Attendant.

His dream holiday Italian Rivera and the south of France – for two months each.

The worst job he has ever had

Three things he would take to a dessert island

Working for my Mum’s business – never mix family and work.

Never ending Tim Tam packet, hammock and sunglasses.

Brandon Davis Brandon Davis is a Customer Service Team Leader at Kingston City Council. He has worked in Local Government for around 18 months deciding to make the move after spending 20 years in the private sector. His main motivator was that he wanted to work for an organisation that played an active role in the local community and focused on services that matter.

What he enjoys outside of work Time with family and friends, preferably outdoors or something social, and often dealing with our most irrepressible and crazy family member – our beautiful Aussie Bulldog Harry.

Something about him that may surprise people I used to do roller derby, not very well, but I love skating so I thought I’d join my better half who was already doing it – she was much better at it than me!

His favourite sports to watch

What really annoys him

It has to be football, specifically the English premier league, and absolutely must involve my team Liverpool!

People driving like they have no idea of the road rules, speed limits or general awareness of anyone else around them!

50 | PROFILE SPRING 2017

What makes him laugh Watching Utopia on the ABC and thinking… I have been in meetings like this before!!

What he enjoys most about his job I really enjoy the opportunity to have a vision for the future and then build it. Start to create an environment for change, to transform teams, people and processes, make things more efficient, better and have fun along the way!

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CALENDAR

Diary Dates

PROGRAMS

PROGRAMS

Connect with us at

LGProVIC

DATE

INFORMATION

Nominations open on Wednesday 20 September for the 2018 program and close on Friday 27 October

To equip and support senior executives in Local Government. To learn more visit XLP

Nominations open on Wednesday 20 September for the 2018 program and close on Friday 27 October

For those who aspire to positions of leadership and to those who aspire to provide leadership in a particular area of interest in Local Government Victoria. To learn more visit ELP

Wednesday 11 October, LGPro office

A program to ensure that the importance of good governance is clearly understood by staff in the sector who are all required to interact with elected councillors. To learn more visit Good Decision Making

Thursday 2 November, LGPro office

A program to introduce career thinking and planning skills and concepts to Executive Assistants, administration officers and customer service staff. To learn more visit Thinking Career and Leadership

Thursday 14 September, Greater Geelong City Council Wednesday 20 September, Greater Bendigo City Council Tuesday 31 October, LGPro office

Designed for those who are new or recently appointed to the sector. To learn more visit Induction to Local Government

AWARDS

EVENTS

Thursday 16 November, Rural City of Wangaratta

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES Corporate Partners Networking Event

Thursday 12 October, Richmond Town Hall

A networking event for LGPro Corporate Partners. To learn more visit Corporate Partner Networking Event

Online nominations now open and close on Friday 13 October

Celebrate the excellent work being undertaken in the Local Government sector. To learn more visit Awards for Excellence

AWARDS

2017 LGPro

Aged & Disability Services Seminar

Thursday 21 September, CQ Functions

A seminar for those working in the areas of aged & disability services. To learn more visit Aged & Disability Services Seminar

Friday 17 November, Melbourne Arts Centre

A conference for those working in the areas of corporate, community and social planning. To learn more visit Corporate Planners Network Conference

Wednesday 21 February and Thursday 22 February, 2018

The theme for the 2018 Annual Conference is: Taking charge

For further information regarding these or any LGPro event visit www.lgpro.com or contact LGPro on (03) 9268 6400 37001

CONFERENCES

CONFERENCES/SEMINARS