September 2018 Profile Magazine

Quarterly magazine for Local Government Professionals Spring 2018

SINGING THE PRAISES OF WOMEN IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Corporate Planners

Women’s events

Advocacy update

Planning for 2099

Pictorial spread

Campaign gains support

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CONTENTS 6-9 2018 Women’s Events and Sally Isaac Award winners Featuring pictures from these events and the winner of the Sally Isaac Award.

11 Corporate Planners look to 2099 See what the program for the 2018 Corporate Planners Network Conference has to offer.

15 First Sector Secondment Program placement Read the interview with Darren Jackson, who took up the first placement in our Sector Secondment Program.

Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)

16-17 Great Leaders in Local Government feature

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

Glenn Patterson talks about his time at Yarra Ranges Council

DEADLINES

and his move to take over the reins at Casey City Council.

19 Advocating for authorised officers

Profile is published quarterly.

The deadline for Summer 2018 edition is 9 November 2018.

The magazine will circulated electronically in December 2018.

Our ongoing advocacy campaign to get more protection

CONTRIBUTIONS

for authorised officers working in Councils gains momentum.

30 Results from pilot evaluation program Participants give this new program the thumbs up.

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 ADVERTISING

Four members of our 2018 Emerging Leaders Program have contributed stories to this edition of Profile. We thank Tori Hayat, Danielle Thompson, Karen Milner and Paula Yorsten for their contributions. You can read their stories on pages 16, 17, 22 and 23.

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

2018

ELP Emerging Leaders Program

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

Cover caption: Claire Bowditch was a popular keynote speaker at our 2018 Women’s Professional Development Forum.

Connect with us at

LGProVIC

Above: Some of the record number of 260 delegates who attended our 2018 Women’s Professional Development Forum share a laugh during one of the sessions.

TIME TO TAKE THE LEAD As inevitably occurs before a state election there’s a degree of uncertainty that pervades the sector.

When you combine this with the

Of course we’re doing our bit

uncommonly high level of CEO

at LGPro to help improve sector

turnover (we estimate that in the

performance in this area. We use

18 months from June 2017, in excess

gender balance as a key selection

of 33% of CEOs will have left Local

criteria for our Emerging Leaders

Government) and the resultant

and Executive Leadership programs,

movement that usually follows, plus

so in terms of potential sector

changes in HACC arrangements, to

candidates for senior roles we

name but a few, it’s easy to fall into

know the pool of talent is there.

the trap of adopting a wait and see and respond approach. This is not

We now want to make sure that

the approach LGPro is taking.

we are connecting the talent pool to emerging opportunities and

EMBRACING DIVERSITY We believe we need to take the lead on those things over which we have responsibility and influence and that embracing diversity makes the sector stronger.

As part of the Board’s strategic planning we have identified the need to develop an inclusion and diversity program. This program will be member driven and will be a key agenda item for the October LGPro Board meeting. Our aim is to get you involved and we’ll update you on progress.

PROGRESS ON FEMALE CEOS

ensuring that the playing field is level for all candidates. Our advocacy

are now open and will close on Monday 22 October.

This year we have added a new category, the Indigenous Community Partnership Award, developed in conjunction with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

acknowledge and share the great

Women’s Roundtable, LGV’s work on

things we have achieved and show

developing a Gender Equity Resource

our appreciation of the people

Kit, a partnership with IPAA Vic to

who have achieved them.

establish a Public Sector Women’s Advisory Committee, and the Listen

Award winners will be announced

Learn and Lead equity program

at the 2019 Annual Conference

recently rolled out in 32 Councils.

Dinner to be held on Thursday 21 February at Melbourne Convention

We are also proud that our advice

and Exhibition Centre.

on gender targets and performance measurement has been worked

I look forward to seeing you at

into the Draft Local Government Bill

an LGPro activity soon.

currently being considered by the Parliament. We were delighted that at the last meeting of the Ministerial reinforced her commitment to

CEOs which represents 20% of our

supporting the sector to ensure

most senior leadership tier in the

that greater outcomes are achieved

sector. While there is still a long way

in this area.

4 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

2019 LGPro Awards for Excellence

This is a great opportunity to

Women’s Roundtable Minister Kairouz

it’s been hovering at recently.

proactive, nominations for the

establishment of the Ministerial

mid-October we will have 16 female

an improvement on the 12%-16%

Staying with the theme of being

in this area has helped drive the

While it’s only small progress, by

to go to achieve parity, it’s certainly

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE NOMINATIONS

REBECCA McKENZIE PRESIDENT

EVALUATING OUR WORK I know that in Rebecca’s President’s column she makes the point that LGPro’s approach is built on taking the lead on those things over which we have responsibility and influence.

The belief that we can and should

A great example of the importance

take the lead was the impetus for the

of taking charge of evaluating your

Program Evaluation Course (PEC)

own work and using the outcome

that was delivered with the University

to inform performance is one of

of Melbourne to four Councils. There

the Councils evaluating their digital

are a host of agencies that report on

transformation strategy concluded

and assess the performance of Local

that the evidence to support its goal

Government but it’s only when we

of being “customer centric” was not

own the process and the outcomes

reliable and would compromise

that performance improvement

the validity of the evaluation.

will occur.

EXPECTATIONS MET I had high expectations that the PEC would build sector capacity in evaluating its own work and create insights about the value or otherwise that could be shared with the community. These expectations were met, but judging by the reflections of the four Councils on the final day of the program,

As a result, they engaged in an extensive and open engagement with the community and got access to information that they would otherwise not have had and established important relationships where serial complainers felt that they had been heard and were supportive of Council’s efforts to address the needs of the community.

ELP CONTRIBUTORS As you look through this edition of Profile you’ll see stories from four of the 2018 Emerging Leaders Program participants. I’d like to thank Tori Hayat (Glen Eira City Council), Danielle Thompson (South Gippsland Shire Council), Karen Milner (Mildura Rural City Council) and Paula Yorsten (Loddon Shire Council) for their contributions.

We believe that having our members take an active role in shaping the content and style of this publication adds to its relevance and interest. Prior to this edition we had contributions from our Young Professionals Network and we invite contributions from Special Interest Groups, program participants etc.

NEW AWARD CATEGORY

It was great to meet so many of

I’m really pleased that this year we

you at the Women's Professional

There was impassioned discussion

have added a new category in our

Development Forum, the Women's

about the sector’s role, the difficulty

annual Awards for Excellence, the

Network Dinner and the Aged

of breaking down internal barriers

Indigenous Community Partnership

& Disability Services Seminar

and how leadership can support or

Award. There’s a lot of exciting

and Awards Dinner. I'm looking

squash curiosity about the what, why

work happening in this space that

forward to catching up with you at

and how of the things that are done.

we should be promoting.

our Corporate Planners Network

it achieved much more.

While I’m on the role of the Awards for Excellence as a vehicle for acknowledgement and promotion, having attended the LGPro Young Professionals Network events, I’m expecting at least 50 nominations for the Young Achiever Award.

Conference next month.

DAVID PREISS "It’s only because of their stupidity that they’re able to be so sure of themselves."

– Franz Kafka

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 5

2018 LGPRO Women’s Events

Aunty Di provides the Welcome to Country.

Keynote speaker Claire Bowditch with one of the sponsors, Bronson Justus from JLT.

LGPro Board Member, Julie Reid welcomes the record number of delegates to the Forum.

From left, Terri Plozza (Latrobe), Kathryn Baldock (Indigo) and Lee Cochrane (Latrobe).

Short Talk presenter, Erin McKinnon from Reconciliation Victoria.

The large contingent from Monash City Council at the Women's Network Dinner.

6 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Marika Hubble-Marriott from Russell Kennedy spoke about connections that empower you .

Mariam Issa tells her powerful story to the delegates.

Sally Isaac Award winner, Lauren Watts, acccepting her award.

Kirsten Kachab and Bridget Scott from Casey.

Sharee Johnson spoke about the importance of mindulness.

Carol Fox led a workshop on confident communication.

From left, Kylie Griomadovski, Ellie Ingwersen and Tarryn Elverd from Yarra Ranges.

Karen Hollenbach helped delegates improve their LinkedIn profiles.

Delegates chat during an interactive session.

From left, Irene Giavas (Morleand) and Bethany Roche, Rachel Lang and Kharie Murphy all from Casey.

LGPro Board Member, Kathy Hynes chaired one of the sessions.

The group from Melton City Council at the Dinner.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 7

2018 LGPRO Women’s Events

Monash colleagues, from left, Connie Lambe, Amey Rountree, Sarah Howe, Catherine Strachan and Natasha Swan.

Amanda Smith from Yarra Ranges shares at laugh at one of the sessions.

Robyn Gould and Sonja Tomasovic from Boroondara City Council.

Cont'd

Short Talk presenter, Julie Cini.

Speakers Carol Fox (left) and Mariam Issa (centre) chatted to Casey delegates Lisa Castle, Sarah Hoffmann and Nikita Summers at the drinks session.

A big contingent from Baw Baw Shire Council attended the Dinner.

Deborah Beasley and Leanne Johnson from Greater Dandenong City Council catch up with Elizabeth Deakin and Andrea Taylor from Hume City Council.

8 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Melanie Raymond was a popular keynote speaker at the Dinner.

Forum delegates at one of the interactive sessions.

From left, Liz Rowlandfs, Leoni De Jong, Nerina Di Lorenzo and Kirsten Coster all from Moreland City Council.

From left, Jessie Ablett, Lyn Smith, Chelsea Cooper, Noelle Novak and Alana Raven all from Baw Baw Shire Council.

Delegates enjoyed the coffee cart provided by McArthur who were the Major Sponsors of both the Forum and the Dinner.

Amanda Lovick and Jane Diplock from Mansfield Shire Council.

From left, Sara Merkis, Angie Peresso and Carly Goodrich from Casey City Council.

From left, Jiarong Wang (Casey) and Aiya Idris and Elma Khan from Moonee Valley City Council.

This big group from Casey City Council enjoyed the Dinner.

Delegates listen to one of the speakers.

LGPRO THANKS THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF OUR WOMEN’S EVENTS:

WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FORUM MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

WOMEN’S NETWORK DINNER MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

| 9

DELIVERING POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL OUTCOMES Winner of the 2018 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award, Lauren Watt from Surf Coast Shire, still can’t believe that she won the award.

“It means so much to me. I was

Lauren quietly goes about her

honoured to even be nominated

work building resilience across

and associated with Sally Isaacs’

the local towns, engaging and

incredible legacy, not to mention

empowering the community

to be among the calibre of my

to build more capacity.

fellow nominees. Winning this award has given me much needed encouragement to continue to take on new challenges and follow my passion to deliver positive environmental and social outcomes in my local area.”

“I think it’s so important to have opportunities to recognise, share and celebrate the work being done in Local Government, in particular, recognising and supporting young women,” she said.

She has developed a great network with professional stakeholders in external Government agencies, in particular with emergency services and has contributed to community life by initiating innovative ways of educating communities on disaster preparedness.

Her undergraduate degree 12 years ago was Social Science (Environment), which is essentially sustainability studies so she is excited to be back in a sustainability

Lauren has worked at Surf Coast

focused role and plans to use the

for six years and has only recently

$10,000 scholarship to undertake a

taken on the role of Coordinator

Graduate Certificate of Sustainable

Environmental Sustainability.

Regional Development.

In her time at Surf Coast, Lauren has made her mark creating award winning projects within the Emergency Management Department including The Fire Game which educates the community on bushfire safety and has received key industry accolades.

“This study will be a great opportunity to immerse myself in current academic perspectives on climate adaptation planning and policy, as well as broaden my depth of knowledge in natural resource management and regional development. This will enable me to effect greater influence within Council and deliver great outcomes for our local environment and community,” she said.

“I honestly feel like I am working in my dream job where I’m able to connect with people and facilitate positive environmental and social outcomes in the Surf Coast – an area where I grew up and am deeply connected to.”

Sally Isaac Award winner, Lauren Watt (centre) with Sally’s parents, Shane and John Isaac.

10 | PROFILE10 SPRING | PROFILE 2018 SPRING 2018

RECOGNISING THE OTHER SALLY ISAAC NOMINEES • Morsal Bashir, Communications Officer, Monash City Council • Tania Canas, Arts Director, RISE Refuge • Clare Douglas-Haynes, Acting Manager – Animal Shelter, Ballarat City Council • Silvia Garrett, Personal Trainer/ Group Fitness Instructor, Melbourne City Council • Jessie Holmes, Director Community Development, Buloke Shire Council • Aiya Idris, Community Development Youth Program Officer/ Business Support Officer, Moonee Valley City Council • Elma Khan, Community Development Program and Administration Officer, Moonee Valley City Council • Julie McLaren, Curator, Ballarat Art Gallery, Ballarat City Council • Kimberly Pellosis, Community Member • Charlotte Roberts, Creator/ Facilitator, The Musical Body program • Teneille Summers, Preventing Violence Against Women Officer, Darebin City Council • Andrea Szymanski, Coordinator Open Space and Landscape Design, Knox City Council • Carlee Vandenberg, Coordinator Early Years Integrated Services, Knox City Council • Michelle Kearns, Waste Education Officer and Community Development Officer, East Gippsland Shire Council

FRIDAY 26 OCTOBER 2018 – THE PAVILION, ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE THEME Planning for 2099 – Imagine the Possibilities

WHO SHOULD ATTEND Corporate Planners and anyone interested in long term future planning, using data to drive change and business transformation, being accountable in a changing environment, deliberative engagement and building effective relationships.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS KEYNOTE ADDRESS DELIVERED VIA SKYPE – This year for the first time the keynote address will be delivered via skype from America by Jeremy Sharp who has worked as a Local Government urban planner in Virginia since 2005, and for the City of Norfolk since 2008.

In that time, his work has been recognised many times for planning excellence – including three state wide planning awards. Jeremy has been responsible for several major projects, including Norfolk’s 2013 comprehensive plan (plaNorfolk2030), its 2016 sea level rise adaptation strategy (Vision 2100), and its 2018 zoning ordinance rewrite.

His keynote address will be on the Vision 2100 Process – Planning for the 22nd Century. The City of Norfolk has a long, complicated history with the water that surrounds it and which has a growing tendency to cause floods in the city. Facing projections of a one-three metre rise in sea level by 2100, Norfolk was in desperate need of a new comprehensive vision for the city’s long term future. Vision 2100 provides such a vision – one that looks at the projected sea level rise not as a challenge to run from, but as an opportunity to re-shape Norfolk for the 22nd Century.

WORKSHOP – Using Data to Drive Decision Making – Data can hold huge potential and value which can be used to enable data-driven results. Warren Dean, Senior Data Analyst at Casey City Council will share how his Council is using data to improve decision making including shifting thinking from local knowledge to data-driven, using business intelligence tools to gather your own insights with combined datasets and storytelling with data.

PRESENTATIONS – These will include one on Deliberative Engagement highlighting the principles that consider inclusion, representation and influence allowing the stakeholders to have a say in articulating what is important to them. Another presentation will focus on the keys to successful stakeholder management.

CORPORATE PLANNERS NETWORK AWARD The winner of the 2018 Corporate Planners Network Award will be announced at 4.30pm at the conclusion of the conference. This will be followed by drinks, canapes and networking.

This award recognises initiatives that demonstrate excellence in planning in Local Government. Award finalists will be presenting on their initiatives during the conference.

MAJOR CONFERENCE AND AWARD SPONSOR

PROFILE SPRING 2018

11

Social Gerontologist, Tanya Dave presented a session.

Sue Pieters-Hawke spoke about what Councils could do to support people with dementia.

Jania Warner from Warner Institute who were the Supporting Sponsor of the Seminar with Jim Nolan from Pyrenees Shire Council.

Stephanie Berton from Whitehorse City Council and Kate Ablinger from Hume City Council.

Gerardine Jarman and Melissa Mitchell from Campaspe Shire Council.

Susan Alberti was one of the keynote speakers.

From left, Debra Styles (Maroondah City Council), Amanda Tingay (Greater Shepparton City Council) and Corrienne Nichols (Nillumbik Shire Council).

Yarra Ranges Council colleagues, from left, Chelsea Brooks, Carolyn Haack and Elizabeth Newton.

From left, Sue De Neep (Hume), Jenny Stringer (Mildura), Guy Walter and Naomi Thornhill (Hume).

SEMINAR MAJOR SPONSOR

SEMINAR SUPPORTING SPONSOR

12

Sharon Bahn and Renae Buckley from Casey City Council.

Delegates at one of the sessions.

AWARDS SPONSOR

2018 LGPRO AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES AWARD WINNERS OUTSTANDING PROGRAM/PROJECT – GRANT BASED (FUNDED BY AN EXTERNAL GRANT) PROGRAM OR PROJECT Latrobe City Council, Connecting Seniors Project During community consultation for its Positive Ageing Strategy/Action Plan 2017-2021, Latrobe City Council discovered that many older members of their community had tried to access social groups but had felt unwelcome. Council established a Welcoming & Age Friendly Program Advisory Committee which had face to face meetings with more than 50 community groups to learn what makes a club welcoming and age friendly. Once this was determined Council developed a training program for local clubs wanting to become accredited From left, Helen Smart from sponsor, Mecwacare and Helen Taylor and Christy Hoiles from Latrobe City Council.

Welcoming & Age Friendly Clubs. To date, 28 clubs and groups have gained accreditation, with another 32 waiting on the next training session.

OUTSTANDING PROGRAM/PROJECT – NON GRANT BASED (FUNDED AND RESOURCED BY A COUNCIL) PROGRAM OR PROJECT Maroondah City Council, Pathways for Carers Maroondah City Council's Pathway for Carers is a program that offers carers an opportunity to connect with other carers, local service providers, Council staff and guest walkers in a relaxing and supportive environment. Participants can take a walk through nature and enjoy a coffee together in a cafe afterwards.

The environment established by Pathway for Carers enables carers to have a deeper connection, share key learnings and understanding in addition to providing exercise. This provides a platform for carers to establish supporting From left, Helen Smart from sponsor, Mecwacare and Kim Henderson, Fiona Burridge, Jack Mulholland and Mel Spencer from Maroondah City Council.

networks and to access much needed support services. The Council staff involved are able to share their wealth of knowledge with participants.

mecwacare offers the following services Residential Aged Care Home Care Packages Community Care and Services Disability Services Home Nursing Care Community Housing In Home Care and Support Services Opportunity Shops

Freecall 1800 163 292 www.mecwacare.org.au

mecwacare is proudly a not-for-profit, non-denominational organisation caring for Victorians since 1959.

We have Aged Care facilities and offices in: Malvern

Terang

Glen Iris

Traralgon

Prahran

Mornington

Hoppers Crossing

Richmond

Ballarat

Mont Albert North

Greensborough

Keilor

Hamlyn Heights Pakenham

Westmeadows

Melbourne CBD

5

SECONDMENT SUCCESS STORY Darren Jackson was the first person placed in LGPro’s Sector Secondment Program designed to promote greater collaboration and knowledge sharing in the sector.

A Local Government Planner who has worked at Whittlesea City Council for 20 years, Darren accepted a secondment at Murrindindi Shire Council as Manager Development Services.

In this Profile, Darren and Stuart McConnell, General Manager Infrastructure & Development Services at Murrindindi Shire Council speak about their respective experiences through the program.

DARREN JACKSON “I have worked in Local Government since the early 1990s and have led both

saw other Managers, Directors and the

approaches. This enabled

CEO meet weekly to resolve issues

uninterrupted internal and external

from a whole of Council perspective."

service delivery from our Development Services Unit. It’s been great to have

statutory and strategic teams to deliver

"I found Murrindindi Shire Council’s

good planning outcomes for both

leadership group truly interested in and

established and future communities.

appreciative of the resources – such as

My recent work at Whittlesea involved

networks, policies and procedures and

“Darren has delivered extra value

leading statutory teams overseeing our

leadership styles – that larger Councils,

in this role. He has brought deep

established areas, township and green

such as Whittlesea, can share."

expertise in planning and a fresh

wedges. I’m passionate about ensuring strategic vision can be understood and implemented by statutory planners, and that strategic planners understand the statutory context of their work."

“The opportunity to work with a different Council provided new insights in relation to leadership and management. The opportunity has also diversified my professional

“I applied for the secondment as

experience. And the fresh country

I have a particular interest in peri

air has been most welcome too."

urban areas, as the planning and economic challenges at the interface of our metropolitan and regional areas are complex and changing.

Murrindindi Shire now has a number of communities that reflect this changing dynamic and I saw the secondment as an opportunity to better understand this challenge, as well as contribute to planning and development in this context. The secondment also offered the opportunity to lead in areas outside of my specialist expertise, such as

a new perspective as part of our leadership team."

perspective from experience gained in another place. This has enabled us to step back and have a fresh look at some tricky issues. It has been a great check on how we are going, an opportunity to identify areas for improvement and a bonus in terms of being able to pick his brains and share

“Secondments offer a unique

in his knowledge. At the Leadership

opportunity to both learn and

Team table, we are frequently

contribute. If you have developed

asking Darren how Whittlesea had

some knowledge and expertise in

approached certain challenges."

your Local Government field perhaps it is time to share this with another Council if the opportunity arises.”

STUART MCCONNELL “We were in a position of needing to find someone to lead our Development Services Unit for

“LGPro’s assistance in finding a suitable candidate was really appreciated.

What’s more it has given us the opportunity to learn from another Council and there are always opportunities to learn from others and improve what we do.”

building and environmental health."

a number of months and being a

Learn more about our

small Council in a rural area, it is

Sector Secondment Program

“The secondment highlighted the

not always easy to find a suitable

challenges that rural Councils face

candidate so we turned to the LGPro

with their more limited resources.

Sector Secondment Program as an

Despite these challenges the smaller

opportunity to fill the role and give

size allows opportunities for better

the candidate an opportunity for

decision making when dealing with

a different experience."

day-to-day and complex planning and development matters. During my secondment it was a privilege to be part of the leadership group, which

Above: Stuart McConnell (left) and Darren Jackson celebrate a secondment success story.

“We were fortunate to secure a great person to fill the role – someone we were unlikely to secure through normal short term recruitment PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 15

GLENN PATTERSON TO LEAD LARGEST COUNCIL IN VICTORIA CEO Glenn Patterson talks to Tori Hayat, one of our Emerging Leaders about his career, his decade long contribution to his leadership role at Yarra Ranges, the attributes he believes make a great leader and what he’s most looking forward to with his new appointment as Casey CEO.

Story by Tori Hayat, Team Leader Arts and Culture, Glen Eira City Council and LGPro Emerging Leader’s Program participant

2018

ELP Emerging Leaders Program

Glenn Patterson has had more

Whilst benefitting in many ways

than 28 years senior management

from a period in the private sector, he

experience with numerous

missed the diversity and community

metropolitan and rural Councils.

focus that the Local Government

He was never planning a career

sector offered and was enticed back

in Local Government but was

with the opportunity of leading Baw

encouraged by family friends to

Baw Shire Council as CEO where

commence a Bachelor of Business

he spent three years before moving

in Local Government at RMIT after

to Yarra Ranges in 2008. He has spent

completing HSC, not having any

the past decade at Yarra Ranges.

career clarity.

In 1985, Glenn started out in administration roles at the Shire of Sherbrooke and City of Moorabbin.

He then moved to Woorayl Shire as Deputy Shire Secretary and in 1993 took on his first executive leadership position as Director Corporate for South Gippsland Shire. In 1998 and after five years in the Director’s chair, Glenn secured his first CEO position at Colac Otway Shire Council.

“Becoming a Local Government CEO was the biggest change for

MAJOR CONTRIBUTIONS Glenn considers his major contributions at Yarra Ranges have been shifting the organisation’s culture to be enabling and empowering and building the organisation’s capability; having quality, integrated programs for continuous improvement, innovation and strategy; a clear suite of business transformation (Flexible Future) strategies and vision; and improving the Council’s reputation.

METRO VERSUS RURAL Glenn says the major differences he encountered in his role as CEO in rural Councils as opposed to metro Councils were that rural communities CEOs are much closer to the community, have a much higher profile and are very well known. And there’s a lot more travelling involved!

Metro CEOs are more anonymous and generally not as extensively involved in community affairs and the level of available resources in the organisation varies widely between smaller rural Councils and the larger metros, and this influences the CEO’s role and organisation capability.

CAREER MENTORS Glenn’s never had a formal mentor but has worked with many influential leaders, especially early on in his career. Ken Matson, the GM at Sherbrooke Shire, provided support,

He has encountered many

guidance and insights in his first

challenges in his career particularly

job (as a Junior Administration

in rural regions. “Moving to rural

Officer) beyond what he would

locations has provided plenty

have expected which helped in his

of opportunities for community

early development. Geoff Cockram

involvement and a variety of

and Doug Owens at the City of

Following his role as CEO at Colac

lifestyles, but also proved challenging

Moorabbin and Ron Stanley, the

Otway Shire Council, Glenn served

given the impact of moving my

Shire Secretary at Woorayl in the

as Chief Executive of a Melbourne

family. When I was at Baw Baw the

late 1980s/early 1990s provided

based property group and owned

challenges centred on developing

extensive advice and guidance in

a property related business on

a growth management strategy for

his professional development. More

the Mornington Peninsula.

accelerating residential development

recently, he has had a series of short

and at Yarra Ranges my main

term relationships with specialists

challenges were modernising the

who have provided coaching support.

me. I have thrived in taking up the responsibility, influence and leadership associated with this diverse, rewarding and challenging role.”

“Moving out of the Local Government sector entailed risk, leading an organisation in an entirely new sector, and then becoming a small business owner and employer.” Glenn says.

16 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

organisation, restoring the Yarra Valley tourism brand, reforming the planning and investment functions and significantly expanding the capital works major project delivery.”

WHAT MAKES A GREAT LEADER

MOVE TO CASEY

Glenn believes that the key success

On his move to Casey Council in

factors of a great leader are to

mid-September he says “this is a

establish vision and purpose; be

great opportunity for me to lead the

politically savvy; be relationship and

largest Council in Victoria. Casey is

action orientated; have a coaching

home to 330,000 people growing to

style and emotional intelligence;

over 500,000 by 2040 and employs

exhibit courage; and increasingly

1,500 people. I’m looking forward to

the ability to navigate ambiguity,

working with a new team in a very

to be adaptable, open to change

different community – one that is

and to innovate and improve.

large, diverse and continuing to grow

When asked about whether he believes the sector has a sound foundation of good leaders, Glenn says, “Generally, I believe the calibre of the sector’s leaders continues to improve. There is a depth of emerging

quickly, building on their successes to date. That growth provides many challenges and opportunities and a core part of my role will be to ensure the organisation’s strengths and capability are fully enhanced.”

leadership talent that’s inspiring.

“My initial focus will be on enhancing

There needs to be way more women

relationships internally and externally,

represented in the most senior roles

community and key stakeholder

in the sector.”

engagement and further developing and delivering Casey’s business transformation strategies, to optimise the Casey City brand.”

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PROMOTING GENDER EQUITY ACROSS THE PUBLIC SECTOR Two LGPro Members, Lisa Ippolito from Hume Council and Zoe Thorn from Whittlesea Council, are playing a role in promoting gender equity across the public sector.

The pair are representing LGPro

• Actively supporting women to

• Actively developing, promoting

on the newly formed IPAA Women’s

connect, network, share ideas,

Network Advisory Committee

access information and influence

throughout their careers and

which focuses on supporting

decision-making

in leadership positions in the

and empowering women in the Victorian public sector by:

• Identifying and addressing systemic organisational barriers

and supporting women

public sector in Victoria • Empowering future generations

to women’s advancement in the

of public sector leaders through

Victorian public sector

building leadership capacity.

Lisa Ippolito who is currently Acting Manager of Customer Service at Hume, sees the opportunity to participate on the committee as a “great privilege”. She has been an LGPro Member since 2013 and is a graduate of our Ignite and Emerging Leaders programs. She has been a SIG Convenor, participated on our conference organising committees, and is active in our Young Professionals Network.

Lisa believes having female leaders in positions of influence to serve as role models is not only critical to the career advancement of women, but stands to generate broader societal impacts on pay equity, changing workplace policies in ways that benefit both men and women, and attracting a more diverse workforce.

“The value of gender diversity, particularly in the workplace, is widely acknowledged. Women bring different perspectives and approaches to business, resulting in a more inclusive workplace and often better performance for the organisation. Yet today, only 21 women are at the helm of Fortune 500 Companies,” she said.

“To make any kind of progress in this area we need to ensure gender equality initiatives involve women and men as active and equal partners. We need to treat gender equality as a business issue (not a women’s issue) by providing opportunities for both men and women to change their assumptions, mindsets and behaviours.”

Zoe Thorn has worked at Whittlesea Council for more than five years in roles

as a Project Management Framework Project Officer and more recently as a Corporate Planner. She was keen to join the committee as she is incredibly passionate about supporting women to grow and building transferable skills to succeed – regardless of their professional role, background, age, or abilities.

“I feel that this committee is a great opportunity to build on my personal and professional experiences (both inside and outside Local Government) and exchange insights, skills and experiences with a group of individuals who are seeking a common goal – to empower women in Local Government.

Zoe has held Co convenor roles for both the LGPro Project Management Framework and Corporate Planners SIGs and has attended various LGPro conference and events. She believes diversity of thinking is an incredible asset and there is a certain holistic dynamic that can be brought to the table when the talent pool is a balance of gender, age, culture, professional backgrounds. Diversity in Local Government allows us to be better representative of the community we serve, and that will ultimately deliver better outcomes for our community.

18 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

REGIONAL SUPPORT FOR AUTHORISED OFFICERS CAMPAIGN Regional groups of Councils are supporting our campaign seeking better protection for authorised officers working in Councils.

Two regional groups of Councils

“Based on information provided to

We have also written to the Attorney

have written to the Attorney General,

us by our members there are 45-50

General on a number of occasions

Martin Pakula, calling for the same

assaults on authorised officers per

and have asked for a meeting with

legislative protection provided to

year ranging from grabbing, pushing

him to discuss this issue. To date

emergency workers to be extended

and slapping all the way through to

we have had no success.

to authorised officers in Councils.

attempted murder,” she said.

This was in response to a letter

“Instances of verbal abuse, which

issue with the Minister for Local

LGPro Board President, Rebecca

includes threats to kill, following

Government regularly at quarterly

McKenzie, wrote to CEOs of the

officers to their homes etc. is

meetings and has been told that her

79 Victorian Councils seeking their

in the thousands with some

office has supported our request to

support. Her letter was also sent to

Councils reporting that it is a daily

meet with the Attorney General.

the Inner South Metropolitan Mayors’

occurrence. The impact abuse

Forum after they had independently

has on psychological wellbeing

expressed interest in supporting

should not be underestimated.”

the campaign.

Ms McKenzie said she raises the

“We hope that with growing support from Councils across the state the Attorney General may agree to

LGPro’s efforts to get more protection

meet with us so we can present

Council authorised officers manage

for authorised officers has been

our case for our authorised officers

legislation on behalf of the state

concerted and ongoing. Our first

to be afforded the same legislative

as well as their local community

submission was to the Sentencing

protection as their state emergency

which have many enforcement

Advisory Council in February 2016

worker colleagues,” she said.

provisions including domestic

and soon after we asked the then

animal control, parking regulation,

Minister for Local Government,

food regulation, public health and

Natalie Hutchins, to have the issue

wellbeing, planning and environment

addressed in the review of the

enforcement and regulation, tobacco

Local Government Act.

control, building regulation, and Councils’ own local laws.

LGPro continues to build the ‘business case for change’ – so if you have case studies, stories or examples that help to support our call for action please email them to davidp@lgpro.com

Ms McKenzie said LGPro is increasingly concerned about the safety and wellbeing of authorised officers as assaults and abuse while carrying out their legitimate duties is becoming both more frequent and severe.

PROFILE SPRING PROFILE 2018SPRING | 19 2018 | 19

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INSIGHTS ON THE VALUE OF XLP Lisa Knight from Mount Alexander Shire and Dalene Voigt from Indigo Shire received scholarships through Local Government Victoria towards the cost of participating in our Executive Leadership Program this year.

Lisa and Dalene speak below about the highlights of XLP for them.

Lisa Knight

Dalene Voigt

“I only recently joined Local Government and XLP provided

“Highlights for me included the calibre of some of the

me with both a privileged and unique opportunity to gain

guest presenters including Professor John Thwaites; Dr Richard

a greater insight into the sector. It encompassed a wide

Harmer, Founder & CEO of The Holos Group who presented on

variety of discussion and literature that were all pertinent

managing through change; Phil Ruthven, Founder of IBISWorld

to my role. The facilitators and presenters are subject

and well known futurist; and Richard Burfoot from The Ethics

matter experts in their field, and the ability to discuss

Centre. XLP facilitator, Chris Kotur, eloquently weaves the threads

matters one-on-one was invaluable."

between each session for the group adding gems of wisdom,

Director Corporate and Community Services, Mount Alexander Shire Council

"To be able to talk with like-minded people has been

Manager Organisational Development, Indigo Shire Council

Dalene Voigt (left) and Lisa Knight.

insight and humour throughout."

great, and these connections will continue long after the

"It’s been a delight to be part of such a wonderful, supportive,

completion of XLP. Highlights for me included challenging

challenging, thought provoking group and I will value and nurture

existing mindsets, thoughts and processes; accessing the

the professional relationships that I have made throughout the

knowledge and experience of world class presenters and

program. The program has broadened my exposure to the sector

the privilege of working with my mentor to become the

and the challenges, trends and opportunities it faces. I feel that

best leader I can be."

I’ve grown as a leader and also as a person through participating

"I was able to utilise learnings from the program at both a personal and professional level from day one, and this

in XLP and I’m inspired and motivated by what I’ve learnt and the connections that I’ve made."

continued throughout the program. Personally, I also learnt

"I would highly recommend the program, but only if you’re

a lot about myself, and have made changes in a number

willing to be open to new ideas, consider the sector as a whole,

of areas. This is definitely one of the best programs that

not just your own little patch, have your thoughts respectfully

I have been involved in during my career.”

challenged at times."

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2018 XLP GRADUATES Bernie O'Sullivan, Director Strategy and Growth, Greater Bendigo City Council

Anthony Judd, Chief Executive Officer, Buloke Shire Council

Dalene Voigt, Manager Organisational Development, Indigo Shire Council

Faith Page, Director Corporate and Community Services, South Gippsland Shire Council

Marnie Williams, Executive Manager Human Resources, Mornington Peninsula Shire

Nigel Higgins, Director Planning Services, Maribyrnong City Council

Simon Kinsey, Manager City Works, Whitehorse City Council

Jane Waldock, Assistant Director Planning & Placemaking, Yarra City Council

Stuart McConnell, General Manager Infrastructure and Development Services, Murrindindi Shire Council

Warren Groves, Manager Environment and Safety, Northern Grampians Shire Council

Joseph Tabacco, Manager Property & Economic Development, Banyule City Council

John Hausler, Director Corporate Services, Macedon Ranges Shire Council

Lisa Knight, Director Corporate and Community Services, Mount Alexander Shire Council

Kevin O'Brien, Director Community Services, Horsham Rural City Council

Jenny Scicluna, General Manager Community Wellbeing, Cardinia Shire Council Liz Hunter, Manager People and Culture, Melton City Council

Graeme Harrison, Director Corporate Services, Horsham Rural City Council Errol Lawrence, General Manager Corporate Services, Colac Otway Shire Council

Sheena Frost, Strategic Director Corporate Services, Casey City Council

SPONSORS OF XLP IN 2018

Nominations for the 2019 XLP open on 3 October and close on 9 November. Click here to learn more.

PROFILE SPRING PROFILE 2018 SPRING | 21 2018 | 21

HOW IT FEELS TO BE AN EMERGING LEADER 2018

By Danielle Thompson, Communications and Engagement Officer, South Gippsland Shire Council

ELP Emerging Leaders Program

I can’t quite believe my fellow Emerging Leaders and I are heading to the pointy end of the program, it’s certainly been a whirlwind of thinking, developing and connecting.

I joined the Emerging Leaders Program to build the foundations for my future career development – to push me towards taking on more responsibility and to jump straight in to the opportunities coming my way.

INFLUENTIAL SPEAKERS

LEADERSHIP SKILLS

As part of our monthly meet-ups

I can already identify a shift in my

we have met with a number of

thinking which has developed my

influential speakers. While each has

leadership skills immensely. This

provided key pieces of wisdom,

has been continually challenged

a major take away for me so far

by my mentor Jan Martin, former

While I’ve only been in the sector a

has come from Sherene Hassan –

Corporate and Community Service

short time compared to some of my

Director of the Islamic Museum of

Director at South Gippsland. Her

colleagues it was becoming evident

Australia to exhibit grace in all that

support has been an integral part of

that this year in particular had the

we do. Sherene spoke about her

my development and reflection as

potential to be one of significant

negative experiences with the media

part of the program and is such a

growth. The Emerging Leaders

and while this might seem to be a

worthwhile element Fortunately the

Program has been a major driver

simple tactic its execution is vital

Emerging Leaders Program came up

for this change.

in leadership. A key theme that has

at the same time that opportunities

come up multiple times from Chief

were available at work to lead others.

Since the program began in February we’ve learnt more about ourselves as leaders such as our preferred styles and how to adapt to those who work around us. It was made apparent right from the beginning that we needed to recognise our qualities first to ensure our leadership style was supported, but also remained unique.

Executive Officers across our travels has also been authenticity. That in order to promote change in those around us we must ensure we are truly authentic as it will quickly be made evident if we have a facade.

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

basis and the skills I’ve learnt through the program have been a key aspect of my success.

For anyone thinking that they may be interested in participating in the 2019 Emerging Leaders Program,

Aside from the program’s content,

applications open next month. All

the networking opportunities have

I can suggest is that you take the

been wonderful. It is said every year

leap – make the application – as who

by Emerging Leaders participants,

knows the opportunities that could

but this year we do have a fantastic

come your way!

group with different perspectives that we are happy to challenge.

I have no doubt these relationships will continue once the program finishes and will create opportunities for collaboration not just now but in the future.

22 | PROFILE 22SPRING | PROFILE 2018SPRING 2018

I’m now doing this on a continual

Nominations for the 2019 ELP open on 3 October and close on 9 November.

Click here to learn more.

ELP DEFINES ZOE'S CAREER PATH & THE LEADER SHE WANTS TO BE 2018

ELP

Story by Karen Milner (Mildura Rural City Council) and Paula Yorsten (Loddon Shire Council) 2018 LGPro ELP participants

Emerging Leaders Program

Zoe Blakeney is a busy lady. She is the wife of a farmer, a mum to two young girls and an LGPro Emerging Leader who works part time as Coordinator Environment at Murrindindi Shire Council.

She wears a variety of hats outside

Zoe says she is still working on

That stayed with me and has

work, has an incredible passion for

clarifying her career path, but ELP

inspired me to just keep doing

the environment and is Secretary

has really defined what kind of leader

what I am doing.”

of the Grow Food Network Inc.,

she wants to be and the kind of

a passionate gardener and yoga

organisation she wants to work for.

teacher. “Murrindindi is a beautiful part of world! We are blessed to live among rolling highlands and valleys with amazing rivers and the incredible Lake Eildon at our doorstep,” she said.

Zoe was encouraged by colleagues to nominate for the 2018 Emerging Leaders Program. “Coming back part-time as a working mother brought about new pressures and opportunities for me in the workplace. I felt the course would help me understand how to better

like Emerging Leaders, offering

has provided her with increased

opportunities to staff in the sector.

opportunities including an invitation to MC the recent Women’s Network Dinner attended by more than 460 people from the sector.

are willing to step up for a major personal development exercise –

I was able to hold a large audience’s

do it. It will be career changing for

attention, that I could speak with

you, but in my case it can also have

clarity and that I was also able to

impact on your life more broadly.”

go off script on the occasion.”

room. Her takeaways were that we

(even in a part time arrangement),”

have much more work to do to

she said.

raise the profile of women in Local

is important to me (my values and principles), and how to ensure they remain the basis for choices I make

considering applying is: “if you

I actually enjoyed it. I learnt that

and the fabulous energy in the

more holistically about me and what

and Zoe’s message for those want to be challenged, and you

capacity to lead in my organisation

not just for my role at Council but

Leaders Program opens in October,

me the confidence to say yes and

Zoe was impressed with numbers

development and career outlook,

Nominations for the 2019 Emerging

“Having participated in ELP gave

improve my performance and

profound effect on my personal

the importance of programs

She says her LGPro membership

deal with these and hopefully

“The program has had quite a

She says this also highlights

Click here to learn more.

Government. “Melanie Raymond (keynote speaker) has showed an incredible amount of personal and professional courage in getting gender equality and social justice issues heard – but her message was that we have so much more work to do.

professionally and personally.”

Zoe Blakeney (right) with LGPro CEO David Preiss and keynote speaker, Melanie Raymond at the Women’s Network Dinner.

PROFILE SPRING PROFILE 2018SPRING | 23 2018 | 23

2018 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

WINNERS & FINALISTS COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE - $1.5 MILLION & UNDER

WINNER

Knox City Council, Tim Neville Arboretum/Dobson Park Integrated Water Management Scheme

Knox City Council’s first Integrated Water Management (IWM) scheme demonstrates how creative thinking, courage, shared resources and open knowledge transfer can deliver infrastructure solutions that provide safe, effective, resilient and multi-faceted outcomes that are cost-effective, and yet contribute much broader benefits to Council and the community.

The project site comprised two static lakes that utilised minimal runoff from the surrounding catchment. There were concerns about poor water quality, public health risks, wildlife protection, flooding of residential properties, and irrigation demands of the Dobson Park oval and Tim Neville Arboretum.

This project aimed to resolve all of these concerns in an integrated manner by developing a social infrastructure water system that would build site resilience through future years of climate extremes.

The project objectives were to meet the irrigation demands of the oval and Arboretum as priorities.

However, reducing potable consumption, improving water quality of the lakes, protecting downstream waterways, resolving localised flooding, enhancing biodiversity, and mitigating public health exposure were also critical project elements.

Knox City Council Manager Community Infrastructure, David Yeouart, said there were many challenges the project needed to resolve, aside from irrigation demand. Poor water quality of the lakes and subsequent public health exposure were the most concerning.

Both lakes were drained, de-silted to remove years of build up, and enlarged to increase storage capacity. The upper lake was converted into a treatment habitat wetland and the lower lake connected to a new storage tank at Dobson Park (which in turn gravity feeds back to the wetland) thus, ensuring water levels in each system can be regulated for optimal treatment and supply benefits.

The connectedness of the system ensures continuous flow, which reduces risk of algal blooms, pathogens and E.coli.

24 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

The treatment-habitat wetland provides urban pollutant removal from stormwater runoff in excess of state water quality targets, while providing a sanctuary for aquatic wildlife.

Aquatic plant selections (including rare and threatened) will ensure Knox has a future seedbank for indigenous revegetation recovery.

Flooding flows in the local street network were rerouted to the new wetland lake as a supply resource, thereby taking pressure off Council and Melbourne Water drainage systems. As a result, the magnitude and frequency of flooding impacts on local properties has been significantly mitigated.

Collectively, these design solutions increased alternate water supply reliability of the entire system, meeting irrigation demands of both Dobson Park and the Arboretum.

Coordinator Stormwater at Knox, Caroline Carvalho, said the project demonstrates the value of IWM schemes to solve multiple (seemingly competing) demands, for optimised community benefit.

“The project seeks to raise community appreciation of such innovations by demonstrating how stormwater (the poor cousin) can be a valuable resource for urban life and city liveability.

Don’t just pipe it, use it!,” she said.

Director Engineering & Infrastructure, Ian Bell, said although locations will have site-specific nuances, any public open space with sufficient room for such assets, access to stormwater and irrigation demand, is suitable for an IWM scheme.

FINALISTS Mansfield Shire Council, Mansfield Youth Hub In early 2012, a group of Mansfield youth approached Council to bring attention to the aged and deteriorating skate park. What followed over the next three to four years was an extensive engagement and planning process which continued to involve the youth of Mansfield, a huge community fundraising effort and ultimately a new skate park and youth hub.

Mansfield’s new Youth Hub is a facility the community owns and is proud of. It was designed with youth input, is double the size of the existing skate park and contains features for all ability levels, shelter and accessible play equipment.

and contribution, as well as a multi disciplinary approach by Council.

Mansfield’s Youth Hub is an example of collaborative community consultation and has resulted in the construction of a central piece of infrastructure of which Council is justifiably proud.

An extensive community engagement process was undertaken to resolve the location. A Skate Park Site Assessment Working Group (SPSAWG), with all stakeholders represented, identified all potential sites within the Shire, developed and agreed upon site assessment criteria and as a group scored each site and surveyed the community to determine the ultimate location.

The overarching goal was to facilitate a youth driven project to improve the Skate Park, whilst also creating a broader Youth Hub to cater for the needs of local youth The project grew in momentum and gained community and the wider community, as well as providing opportunities support. As a result the Mansfield community raised for increased participation in active recreation. an additional $75,000 to ensure that provisional and additional items such as seating, accessible play Initiated by a group of young skaters who had formed equipment and a bouldering wall were included in the Mansfield Skate Park Action Group (SPAG), the project was defined by extensive community engagement the facility.

Yarra Ranges Council, Lilydale Lake Regional All Ages Playspace The Lillydale Lake All Ages Playspace has successfully challenged the theory of how and who playspaces should be developed for.

The playspace is representative of healthy social interaction between different generations and physical ability, bringing the joy of play and physical activity to everyone.

The space promotes learning between age groups and breaks down barriers, changing the role of children to teacher, supervisor to participant, loneliness to included, frail to playful. It changes the idea of play from equipment to experience, from high activity to creating nests under a tree to observe and listen to the joy in this beautiful space.

The project objective was to increase participation in physical activity for all ages, break down barriers between age groups and abilities by removing play segregation, and encourage creative community thinking in the design of the space.

Outcomes include increased usage, increased time spent in the park, increase in other activities in park, increased economic activity for food truck businesses, reported increase in mental wellbeing and feelings of joy.

Responses from the community have numbered in the thousands with people reporting difficulty dragging their families away, staying for four hours at a time, planning their weekends around a trip to the space and meeting up with other families for a day out. Local food trucks have reported an increase in economic activity in the park as a direct result of the increased attendance and schools are travelling up to 30 kilometres in buses to bring children to the space.

Innovative features include equipment that can be used in different ways for different age groups and abilities including elderly people, mixing age groups rather than segregating; participatory demonstrations on how to use equipment in different ways and change people’s behaviour in a playspace; and the layout which encourages people to participate in the space.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 25

2018 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

WINNERS & FINALISTS COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE - OVER $1.5 MILLION

WINNER

Whittlesea City Council (in association with Moreland City Council & Darebin City Council), Epping Animal Welfare Facility

The $13 million state of the art Epping Animal Welfare Facility has ushered in a new era for animal management in Victoria.

The animal care centre has been developed and funded by Whittlesea, Darebin and Moreland Councils and is being managed

by RSPCA Victoria on their behalf.

Located at Companion Place, Epping Animal Welfare Facility provides impounding, shelter, veterinary, accommodation and adoption services for domestic animals and livestock brought into the facility from the three municipalities.

Whittlesea City Council Mayor, Ricky Kirkham said the partnership between the Cities of Whittlesea, Moreland and Darebin had resulted in a modern facility that will provide outstanding animal services.

“The Epping Animal Welfare Facility has been carefully designed with our partners to ensure that we can deliver high quality animal welfare services to our communities,” he said.

“No one wants to see animals in the pound, but the reality is that there is a real community need for these types of facilities. With this in mind, the facility was designed to provide a comfortable environment for animals and to be an inviting place to encourage people to visit and adopt their new best friend.”

RSPCA Victoria CEO, Dr Liz Walker said the modern, multi municipality facility was a fantastic investment in domestic animal management.

“The Councils have shown real foresight in partnering to meet the animal welfare needs of their respective communities. RSPCA Victoria will use all of our experience and expertise to ensure that lost animals brought into Epping Animal Welfare Facility are reunited with their owners as soon as possible; that stray animals are given the care and medical attention they need to find a new, forever home; and we will support the Cities of Whittlesea, Darebin and Moreland in further

26 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

educating their communities about responsible pet ownership,” she said.

Epping Animal Welfare Facility is expected to house more than 3,000 dogs and 3,000 cats in its first year. The centre has the capacity to house 165 cats, 110 dogs, 20 small animals and multiple livestock at any one time.

More than 20 adoption staff, animal care officers and volunteers will be on site each day. Animals will be housed in large cat and dog enclosures, with an outdoor dog exercise area, and cat and dog viewing areas showcasing the animals for adoption. The facility also has capacity to house larger animals that are impounded, with holding yards for horses, cattle, sheep and other livestock.

This shared services project is an outstanding example of successful Local Government collaboration. The joint approach to governance, planning, design, procurement and management has resulted in construction of a regional centre of excellence in the field of animal welfare management.

The Epping Animal Welfare Facility is a flagship example of the collaborative potential of the Local Government sector.

FINALISTS Banyule City Council, Greensborough Project This project has taken Greensborough from a struggling activity centre to a major regional destination featuring Australia’s leading suburban aquatic and leisure facility, WaterMarc. Approaching five million visits in 2018, WaterMarc, and the co-located Council offices and strong commercial activity, have created a regional hub and destination that has transformed the Greensborough Activity Centre. Great meeting places, public spaces, Town Square and the Greensborough Walk now frame the Greensborough experience. The Greensborough Project set out to build a new pool, civic offices, town square and planning framework for Greensborough. It resulted in Australia’s leading suburban regional aquatic and leisure centre, new and rejuvenated public spaces, a renewed regional centre and massive growth in civic, community, leisure, commercial and health services – a model for development and planning.

Casey City Council, Casey Stadium Redevelopment This was a major $18.3 million redevelopment to expand and improve the netball and basketball facilities at Casey Stadium in Cranbourne East, Australia’s second fastest growing suburb. Not only did the Council want to build new basketball and netball courts for the community, but it wanted to create a state of the art facility that was highly innovative in both architectural design and on the technical front. The facility had to be of regional significance and able to host state and national sporting events. After 18 months of construction, the Casey Stadium redevelopment was completed in June 2017 delivering five new courts, including a premiere show court, bringing the total courts at the centre to 10; spectator seating for 1,500 people; cafe and piazza area; multi purpose/function room; new foyer/entrance; upgraded and additional car parking; and new change rooms and toilets.

Warrnambool City Council, Building Better Regional Cities – North Dennington Housing Affordability Program By 2012, the issue of housing affordability in Warrnambool had become critical. Council was committed to increasing the number of affordable homes for sale for working families on ordinary incomes. In 2012, they were one of 16 successful recipients to receive an offer of $2.5 million from the Federal Government’s Building Better Regional Cities (BBRC) Program. One of the conditions of the funding was to provide, in aggregate, up to $1.5 million in grants to eligible persons building a new house in North Dennington, which would be serviced by the new Coghlans Road. When launched in 2013, Council’s North Dennington Housing Affordability Program provided the assistance many people needed to help crack the challenging housing market enabling people from a broad demographic range to enter the market. Along with providing grants of up to $20,000 to eligible applicants, the program included the $2.5 million construction of Coghlans Road, a key east-west link to the city’s residential growth areas in North Dennington.

Yarra Ranges Council, Monbulk Regional Soccer Facility This project was the result of a vision by the president of the Monbulk Soccer Club and the ongoing dedication of community members to see the development of a regional facility. This unique project was completely led by members of the community who initiated and proceeded with the project, supporting the vision and purchasing large tracts of land prior to approaching Council as a partner. What followed was an extraordinary 10 year journey that demonstrated the commitment and resilience of local people and the power of partnering with Council. The objectives were to merge two soccer clubs and build a new facility to support this. What resulted was the purchase of land by the club and the development of a regional soccer facility that involved the consolidation of five sites, cross sporting sector usage agreements and coordination, and an example of an empowering community model from inception through to the ongoing maintenance and renewal of the facility.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 27

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To find out more, contact Elaine Dargan: t: (03) 9868 6565 e: elaine.dargan@mcarthur.com.au w: mcarthur.life 28 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

BUILD YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS Judy Chalkley says being an LGPro Member has helped her to grow as a leader and to build her professional networks.

She is the Manager of Active Ageing

Over the years Judy has enjoyed

& Disability Services at Knox City

attending and participating in many

Council and has been Convenor of

LGPro events and a couple of years

LGPro’s Aged & Disability Services

ago made the decision to become

Special Interest Group (SIG) for the

an active LGPro member on the

past 12 months.

recommendation of a friend and

“I had been attending SIG meetings for five years and decided the time was right to step up and take on the Convenor’s role. Our SIG meetings

mentor who talked enthusiastically about the benefits of being a member and how this could assist her career development in the sector.

provide an important opportunity

“I have found that, as an LGPro

to bring together professionals in

member, I have been offered a number

the Local Government aged care

of really great opportunities including

sector to meet and discuss events

having access to various conferences

of significance and to provide advice

and networking opportunities, as well

and support where required. They also

as receiving regular updates from

allow for professional development

across the sector. It really helps to

and provide really useful information

receive an overview of what Councils

that can be shared with your broader

and the sector more broadly is doing

team,” Judy said.

across Australia, and how this can be

“I have also found the Aged and

applied in a local setting,” she said.

Disability Seminar and Dinner to be

Judy said in July she had the

an invaluable source of information,

pleasure of being involved in the

as well as providing network sharing

Women’s Professional Development

opportunities.”

Forum where she was invited to

Judy has worked in Local Government

chair a session.

for 12 years starting at Maroondah

“Like many people, public speaking is

Council before moving to Knox in

an area that I need to develop further,

2016 as the Coordinator Service

so chairing a session enabled me to

Access & Home Support Assessment,

gain some invaluable experience and

before being appointed to her

I also was able to meet and chat with

current Manager position.

the session speaker, as well as many

Whilst working in the sector she had been encouraged and supported to

She believes LGPro offers an amazing opportunity to network with others in the Local Government sector and beyond.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to take part in discussions and opportunities that can help shape the future direction of the sector, as well as its relevance and ongoing service to the communities it represents.”

Learn more about LGPro Individual Membership.

other talented and inspiring women from across Local Government.”

complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Health Management.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 29

TAKING LEADERSHIP SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL When Daniel Przychodzki first took on a Team Leader role in 2012, he enrolled in LGPro’s Ignite Program to help him learn about what it takes to successfully manage and lead a team of people.

He found the program armed him with skills that helped him transition into the role. This included how to lead people and understand their motivators, techniques to coach staff, and how to give and receive feedback This year Daniel enrolled in the Mastering Management program with the aim of further developing his leadership and management skills and taking them to the next level.

He saw Mastering Management as a natural progression in his professional development and has really enjoyed the program which he will complete this month.

“Mastering Management was different from Ignite as it focused on enhancing my emotional intelligence, identifying how to bring out the best in myself and others by actively developing workplace and team culture and how to be a mindful leader in an increasingly dynamic sector,” he said.

Both programs have helped Daniel in his current role as Team Leader – Transport at Greater Dandenong City Council. “They have improved my emotional intelligence, which is an essential skill to have when leading and interacting with others. They have also further enhanced my management skills by introducing new concepts for me to practice and have reinforced existing techniques,” he said.

Daniel has worked in Local Government for 11 years at both metropolitan and interface Councils.

He had heard positive feedback on LGPro courses from previous participants and he wasn’t disappointed.

“The shared learning experience with peers from across Victoria, whilst also improving my professional networks within the Local Government sector were fantastic,” he said.

“I really value professional development opportunities and believe we should all be seeking to be a better version of ourselves and furthering one’s professional development is one aspect to achieving this goal.

EVALUATION DOESN’T HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT

Mozma Tate (left) and Catherine McDonald.

We have received positive feedback from Local Government staff who participated in our pilot program designed to build the capacity of Councils to evaluate their own programs.

Experts from University of Melbourne’s Centre for Program Evaluation (CPE) led the program attended by staff from Casey, Glen Eira, Maribyrnong and Bayside Councils who learnt how to evaluate their respective digital transformation projects.

The program covered practical evaluation skills, conducting an evaluation under guidance and building an understanding of how to embed evaluation into an organisation.

Two Casey staff who attended, Mozma Tate, Acting Team Leader Service Planning, Service and Asset Planning Department and Catherine McDonald, Service Designer, Customer Service

30 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Department reflect on their learnings from the program.

“The program really helped to bridge a gap between what we know we need to do in the form of our strategies and frameworks, and how we measure our success in those endeavours.

The evaluation part of any project can be a bit ‘fluffy’ – we all know we need to do it, but the how has always been the hardest part, often leading us to miss this vital component in our projects and work. Undertaking this program has really helped us clarify the how, and also share with our colleagues the skills we have learnt.

This is such a new area of learning to us, understanding the concepts were challenging to begin with. Our group felt really empowered after being there, as we learnt that evaluation doesn’t have to be difficult or punitive, and that it can actually be really helpful to our increasingly agile environments.

Being able to directly tie outcomes back to the activities we do, and measuring the success of those activities was fantastic.

We think evaluation is essential to Councils simply because we are so close to the community that we need to be able to show how and why we’ve done what we’ve done.

PROUD WOMEN SHARE THEIR STORIES Two very proud Horsham Rural City Council staff members attended the 2018 LGPro women’s events and they asked to share their story in Profile.

Both considered themselves privileged to have been awarded Rural Women’s Scholarships to attend these events – Kerrie Bell this year and Diana McDonald last year.

Here are their stories.

Kerrie Bell

Manager Governance and Information “I began working at Horsham Rural City Council in 2002

Diana McDonald (left) and Kerrie Bell at our 2018 Women’s Network Dinner.

Diana McDonald

Acting Organisational Development Manager & Coordinator Risk and HR

as a casual customer service officer and, from the first

“My Local Government career began in April 2009 when

day, was warmly welcomed into the organisation. My first

I was employed by Horsham Rural City Council as the

permanent role was Revenue Officer which I enjoyed

Governance Support Officer. In 2011, an opportunity arose

for several years before successfully being appointed

for a new position as the Risk Management Coordinator

as Rate Collector in 2009. I managed the rates team

which was very exciting and opened up many

until 2012 when an organisational change also brought

opportunities for me. I am still currently employed in

the IT, Customer Service and Records teams into my

that role but in addition to that I am the HR Advisor for

portfolio. Very recently, another internal change has

West Wimmera Shire Council.

seen an opportunity for me to manage and develop two new teams in our Council, Governance and Community Relations and Advocacy along with my current IT and Customer Service teams. I have enjoyed lots of variety and new challenges and have relished taking on new projects whenever possible.

I applied for a Rural Women’s Scholarship in 2017 the scholarship because the LGPro women’s events are always such a great opportunity to network, learn and grow. I always take some learnings back to my Council to implement, inspire or improve some systems or processes.

Highlights for me are the great networking opportunities

In 2016, I completed LGPro’s Mastering Management

that these events provide, and I met some amazing and

program and gained valuable practical skills, but more

progressive women from a range of Councils that I intend

importantly met interesting and progressive leaders from

on keeping in touch with and hope to do some exciting

other Councils. In 2017, I joined LGPro to take advantage

projects with in the future. The collegiality of these events

of the networking opportunities they offer, in particular

is amazing and I always feel very empowered after

the SIG groups.

attending, and ready to go back to my organisation and

I applied for the Rural Women’s Scholarship this year

take on some bigger projects and challenges.

after being encouraged by my friend and colleague,

I joined LGPro in 2012 after participating in the Mentoring

Diana McDonald, who had been a recipient of the award

Program which was a wonderful opportunity that really

in 2017. I was thrilled to receive the scholarship which

helped me grow and develop professionally in Local

definitely helped offset the financial pressures that

Government. I also took on a role as a Convenor of

comes with attending an event in Melbourne and I really

the Risk SIG, a position I held from 2013 to 2017.

appreciate the support of the sponsors of this award.

The scholarships help rural women attend who may

The event was informative and educational but more

not get an opportunity to do so. One of the exciting things

importantly, was also inspiring and motivating.

in Local Government is the way we all support each

Everyone has a story and I really appreciate that this

other and the LGPro Women’s Forum definitely highlights

event gives us an opportunity to stop, listen and reflect

these opportunities.”

on our own and those around us.”

See the reflections of all of the other 2018 Rural Scholarship winners on pages 32 and 33.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 31

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS REFLECTIONS Rural Women’s Scholarships were awarded to seven women working in small rural Councils in 2018 to attend LGPro’s two key women’s events – the Professional Development Forum and Women’s Network Dinner in late July.

We asked the scholarship winners what being awarded a scholarship meant to them, the highlights of attending the events and how they could use what they learnt in their role.

Below are their responses:

Julia Coates

Coordinator Human Services, Northern Grampians Shire Council “Being located three hours from Melbourne means it's not always financially viable to travel to the city to attend such events. The scholarship covered the financial aspect of attending including travel and accommodation costs, making it a valuable use of my time. The inspiring keynote speakers were a highlight for me, in particular Mariam Issa speaking of her experience arriving in Melbourne as a refugee. It was also a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded women who are interested in professional and personal development. I learnt a lot around confident communication and building connections, which is particularly crucial in my role in HR. It's given me tools and tips that I have been able to use to build and maintain effective relationships."

Amanda Lovick

Business Services Coordinator, Mansfield Shire Council “I felt privileged to receive a scholarship. Coming from one of the smallest rural Councils in Victoria it allowed me the opportunity to meet and come together with other women from larger organisations and network and develop an understanding of how larger LGA's undertake roles and also realise that whilst small Councils have challenges so do larger Councils. The benefits of coming together with all these amazing women was the understanding that we all share the same insecurities, fear of failure and pressure to be wonder woman who can do it all and without the emotional attachment. I came away thinking that networking and surrounding yourself with the right people and team can take you places you never imagined.“

Carole Hammond

Team Leader Environment and Economic Development, Strathbogie Shire Council “I’m supported by a great Executive Team who would have endorsed me to attend if I had put a case forward, but when the scholarship opportunity arose, I took a step back, really looked at the program, and thought about the advantages of absorbing all that fantastic knowledge. I have never heard such strong, clear messages as I did from Clare Bowditch, Julie Cini, and Carol Fox. I sometimes feel that the world we’re exposed to at events like this can be a little homogenised to the last millimetre, but congratulations for choosing individuals who were going to speak their minds, tell their difficult stories, and made us all pretend we had something in our eye. When Clare Bowditch sang out to us ‘What difference do you want to make?!’ I tweeted passionately ‘I’m going to write a book!’ Now Clare's tweeting at me to make sure I am. So I am.”

RURAL WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIPS SPONSORS 32 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Anna Handberg

Organisational Change Coordinator, Borough of Queenscliffe “The impact the scholarship has had on myself, and other women like me who could not have attended without financial help is huge. The fact that LGPro and the sponsors have thought to consider women in rural localities is refreshing, appreciated and shows insight into what we have to offer, so thank you. The biggest benefit to me personally was the chance to network with other women from the sector. I came away with so many business cards I felt like I was carrying around a deck of playing cards! The Undefended Heart session helped me to pause and reflect on my leadership style and notice if I am trying to ‘lead like a man’, or instead could I better leverage the strengths I inherently have being a woman.“

Angeline Dooley

Project Officer, Community & Economic Development, Hepburn Shire Council “I saw it as acknowledgement that we are achieving some good outcomes internally with collaboration within the workplace. Attending the events gave me a good understanding of the Local Government environment through networking and discussion. The workshops were great - reinforcing the theme of embracing the best version of you and offering some great takeaway skills. As we deal with a large variation of stakeholders in our day to day work, both external and internal, the communication topics were really relevant, interesting and applicable on a daily basis."

Stacy Williams

Director of Community Wellbeing, Gannawarra Shire Council “Receiving a scholarship was great honour. Not only did it allow me to attend the conference but was a real acknowledgement of my role as a woman in rural Local Government leadership. The highlight for me was meeting other women in the sector. The workshop and keynote speakers were exceptional, inspirational and thought provoking. The conference and dinner gave me the opportunity to reflect on my career and explore my strengths as a leader. I was inspired by speakers their ideas, passion and commitment. Attending these events also allowed me to expand my network and make new connections with other Councils across the state."

LGPRO ANNUAL CONFERENCE Wednesday 20 February from 2pm and Thursday 21 February Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre THEME: The new 3 R’s – Respect, Relate, Resilience TWO QUALITY KEYNOTE SPEAKERS CONFIRMED SUSAN ALBERTI, businesswoman, philanthropist, former Vice President of the Western Bulldogs Football Club and 2018 Victorian of the Year KON KARAPANAGIOTIDIS, CEO of Asylum Seekers Resource Centre

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Specialised half day work based sessions offering practical tools and advice • Inspirational Short Talks • 2018 Emerging Leaders presentation • Annual Conference Dinner featuring presentation of 2019 Awards for Excellence

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 33 PROGRAM TO BE RELEASED IN NOVEMBER

MEET LGPRO MEMBER, THOR HANSEN TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAREER? I joined Frankston City Council in May 1993 as their first procurement professional. Council amalgamations

I rejoined the Local Government family in October 2010 as Manager Contracts & Purchasing at Casey City Council and in 2016 assumed the role of Strategic Advisor (Probity).

PROFILE HOW HAS WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNT HELPED YOU TO DO YOUR JOB? LGPro events and programs have assisted me through my various roles

HOW DID YOU CONNECT WITH LGPRO?

within Local Government. They have

I joined LGPro in about 1994.

opportunities that would have

Being new to Local Government

taken me much longer to establish

I joined primarily to establish some

without their support. LGPro, through

peer networks and collaborative

their events and programs have

opportunities regarding, not only

In 2002, I left Frankston to become

fully supported me in my career

procurement, but also Local

General Manager at Co-operative

development and helped to make

Government more generally.

Purchasing Services Ltd (now MAV

me a more confident, knowledgeable

I believe that without LGPro it would

Procurement). The next six years

and valued member of the Local

have taken me longer to establish

were a real challenge as we sought

Government family.

these vital contacts and networks.

to remain relevant, customer-

In addition, LGPro’s primary focus

focused and competitive to our

is on us, the employee. Other peak

Local Government clients in a

bodies are more focused on the

‘Best Value’ environment.

business rather than the individual

started the next year, along with the introduction of Compulsory Competitive Tendering (CCT). My focus then turned to CCT as part of a small team that was affectionately known as the ‘Toe-cutters’. I became Manager of this team in 1999.

From 2008 to 2010 I worked in a Business Development role with a SAAS provider role with my major focus again being Local Government.

This was a real step outside of my comfort zone but I enjoyed the challenge and the continued opportunity to stay in touch with Local Government procurement professionals.

which makes LGPro very appealing.

to relative networks and collaborative

YOUR THOUGHTS ON LGPRO? I believe that the new LGPro membership structure better reflects, and represents, that we are all well respected professional people who

WHAT LGPRO EVENTS HAVE YOU PARTICIPATED IN?

are committed to providing our

Over the years I have attended

robust discussions with people over

several LGPro conferences and events. They have provided tremendous networking opportunities through which I have made many strong working friendships. I was a SIG Convenor and a member and chair of several Conference Committees.

I found these experiences to be extremely rewarding and really enjoyed working with my peers to deliver outcomes that other

34 | PROFILE 34SPRING | PROFILE 2018SPRING 2018

provided me with immediate access

communities with outstanding service outcomes. I have had many the years concerning their view of Local Government. We provide more than 60 services to our communities and it is important to have a peak body that represents our interests and provides opportunities for us to grow as professionals in our respective fields of endeavour.

I also think it is fantastic that there is a very strong focus on the development of young professionals.

Local Government colleagues

Learn more about LGPro

could draw upon in their work.

Individual Membership.

WORDS OF ADVICE ON THE VALUE OF SIGS June Ernst, Coordinator of Corporate Planning and Council Business at South Gippsland Shire Council has some words of advice for people working in Local Government, don’t ever underestimate the value of Special Interest Groups (SIGs).

She is a member of four LGPro

June is excited to be presenting at

Through LGPro, June has completed

SIGs - Corporate Planners Network,

the next Governance SIG meeting

the Executive Leadership Program

Corporate Services, Consultation

on Friday 21 September about her

(XLP), has been part of a DELWP

and Research, and Governance –

Council’s initial learnings since having

review, attended a range of networking

and believes they are the best way

a Municipal Monitor appointed by

events and of course has been an

to meet and catch up with others

the Minister. Municipal Monitors look

active member of the SIG groups.

in the industry who are facing

at Council governance processes

similar situations.

and practices, advise Councils about

“Sharing each other’s learnings, hearing about what systems can improve our work environment, finding others who can act as a sounding board and

possible governance improvements and report to the Minister on any steps taken by a Council to improve its governance.

“The main benefits I have experienced from being an LGPro Member are the new and added skills and knowledge I continually gain, that in turn challenge my own thinking and ways of working.

New ideas on how to work better and

growing the professionalism and skills

“I plan to share with the Governance

smarter come forward frequently from

of our sector, are some of the key

SIG some of the learnings that have

each of the events and SIGs I have

benefits I have found from being

come from being the leader of the

participated in. I have been able to

a SIG member,” she said.

Council Business team and thrown in

take many of these back into my work

at the deep end with new processes

place to improve on what I and my

having to be established, plus a bit of

team are achieving,” she said.

“I love coming away from each SIG meeting having learnt about a new product, system or technique that has been discussed or demonstrated by another Council. Learning what

what you don’t know, but really need to know when a Monitor walks in the door,” she said.

worked, what they would do differently

June has worked in Local Government

if they had their time again and what

for almost 38 years, 30 years at Greater

they didn’t like provides such gems.

Dandenong City Council and eight

As a rural Council this knowledge has saved us from investing in systems that fall short of the mark, but also what systems are worth exploring further to see if they meet our needs.”

Learn more about LGPro's Special Interest Groups.

years at South Gippsland. She started as an Assistant Gardener and has since worked in a variety of roles in open space and environmental planning, change management, customer service, records management, corporate planning, governance and community engagement.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 35

| 35

WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS We would like to welcome the following new members who joined LGPro between 10 May and 20 August 2018. We look forward to working with you to shape our wonderful sector.

Emily Anderson, Stonnington City Council Margherita Barbante, Manager Yarra Libraries, Yarra City Council Karen Baum, Governance Coordinator, Baw Baw Shire Council Siobhan Belmore, Manager Major Projects & Buildings, Whitehorse City Council Sasha Berkefeld, Senior Procurement Officer, Darebin City Council Fiona Blick, Communications & Media Officer, Moira Shire Council Richard Boschen, Continuous Improvement Advisor, Maribyrnong City Council Darren Brasher, Risk and Safety Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council Rebecca Bridgman, Business Support Officer, Moonee Valley City Council Paul Brumby, General Manager Corporate Performance, Central Goldfields Shire Council Melissa Burns, Town Planner, Indigo Shire Council Amber Cassidy, Community Development Officer, Hobsons Bay City Council Stephen Cooper, Economic Development & Project Officer, Strathbogie Shire Council Martin Cutter, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Geelong City Council

36 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Rachel Deans, Senior Council and Community Planning Officer, Brimbank City Council

Ellie Ingwersen, Project Support Officer Recreation & Active Living, Yarra Ranges Council

Melissa Doherty, Urban Biodiversity Officer, Hume City Council

Sonja King, Team Leader Marketing and Communications, Greater Shepparton City Council

Anne Donovan, Manager Community Development, Horsham Rural City Council Ilona Ellerton, Business Applications Support Officer, Casey City Council Christine Feng, Assistant Revenue Officer – Rates, Banyule City Council Maddi Franklin, Trainee Customer Service, Indigo Shire Council Stephanie Glasbergen, Customer Contact Officer, Strathbogie Shire Council Alysha Goldsack, Administration Officer Community, Moira Shire Council John Gregory, Senior Property Management Officer, Greater Dandenong City Council Maree Grenfell, Networks and Learning Manager, Melbourne City Council Monique Hillenaar, Health Promotion Coordinator, Rural City of Wangaratta Graeme Hobbs, OHS and Compliance Coordinator, Kingston City Council Amanda Hore, Customer Service Coordinator, Alpine Shire Council

Deb Knoche, Social Planning Officer, Manningham City Council Kathy Liambos, Hobsons Bay City Council Rena Lord, Mitchell Shire Council Naomi Lynch, Greater Bendigo City Council Elizabeth Manou, Governance Projects Officer, Boroondara City Council Johnny Marinis, Financial Controller, Wyndham City Council Jessica Matrakis, Senior Communications & Engagement Advisor, Yarra City Council Angela McDonald, Payroll & Accounts Officer, Borough of Queenscliffe Jenny McKenzie, Indigo Shire Council Andrew McMaster, Corporate Counsel, Manningham City Council Linda McNeill, Work Health & Safety Coordinator, Greater Bendigo City Council Karen Meuleman, Community Strengthening Officer, Yarra Ranges Council Robert Milton, Operations Coordinator Plant and Safety, Benalla Rural City Council

Stephanie Mitten, Sustainability Officer, Moonee Valley City Council Daniel Moloney, Strategic Planner, Strathbogie Shire Council Ruth Morgan, Volunteer Support Advisor, Knox City Council Stephane Nankoo, Events Officer, Melton City Council Helen Napier, Manningham City Council Howard Nicklas, Events Officer, Melton City Council Kate Noble, Senior Sustainability Officer, Low Carbon Future Team, Melbourne City Council Elsie Northey, Facilities Coordinator, Benalla Rural City Council Katrina Nurse, Health and Wellbeing Officer, Glen Eira City Council Suzie Oborne, Business Improvements Officer, Mildura Rural City Council Brenton O'Brien, Rural City of Wangaratta Julia Oxley, Director City Development, Knox City Council Deb Parker, Rural City of Wangaratta Darryn Paspa, Manager Procurement & Contracts, Kingston City Council Hayley Payne, Facilities Officer, Alpine Shire Council

CONNECTING AND INSPIRING OUR MEMBERS We are creating a Member Resource Library to inspire our Individual Members and help them in their work.

The library is part of our commitment

is a closed community only available

audio/video of keynotes from LGPro

to support our members with

to current financial LGPro Members

conferences, conference notes, and

opportunities to develop strong

working in Councils.

interviews with experts.

When you log onto our website

We are in the first stages of forming the

networks with other like-minded professionals.

at www.lgpro.com the Member

Member Resource Library and would

Through our new website we

Resource Library can be found by

welcome your thoughts on people

have started to develop a Member

clicking on the Participation tab, then

you would like to hear from in Local

Community and Member Resource

onto the ‘LGPro Member Community’.

Government or the private sector. Just

Library just for LGPro Individual

Here we will be posting issues of

email us at membership@lgpro.com

Members. The Member Community

our member magazine – Profile,

2018 LGPRO MEMBER EVENT INVITATION Thursday 29 November, from 6pm CQ Functions, 113 Queen Street, Melbourne 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

Brett Pearson, Senior HR Advisor, Mornington Peninsula Shire

Poppy Shire, Executive Assistant, Mitchell Shire Council

Jared Richards, Rural City of Wangaratta

Joanne Silver, Coordinator Corporate Planning and Performance, Maribyrnong City Council

Lee Robson, Manager Business, Culture & Venues, Manningham City Council Jason Sanderson, Events & Culture Adminstration Officer, Melton City Council

Kellyanne Skipworth, Customer Service Officer, Pyrenees Shire Council Phillip Spencer, Operations Coordinator Urban, Benalla Rural City Council

Alex Schladetsch, ICT Support Officer, Rural City of Wangaratta

Don Spokes, Manager Operations, Benalla Rural City Council

Hristina Serovska, Supported Playgroup Facilitator, Strathbogie Shire Council

Joe Stickland, Operations Coordinator Rural, Benalla Rural City Council

Rebecca Stockfeld, Manager Development Services, Central Goldfields Shire Council

Brenton West, General Manager Community Wellbeing, Central Goldfields Shire Council

Sheetal Thakuri, Procurement and Contracts Officer, Strathbogie Shire Council

Nicole Weyandt, Community Development Officer, Wodonga City Council

Liz Turner, Sustainability Engagement Officer, Hume City Council Jenni Walker, Executive and HR Assistant, Borough of Queenscliffe Rob Wallis, Planning Officer, Alpine Shire Council

Jane White, Environmental Sustainable Officer, Moira Shire Council Jarryd Williams, Community Development Officer, Moira Shire Council Emma Woolaston, Manager Corporate, Alpine Shire Council

Lora Watson, Rural City of Wangaratta

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

Click here for information on LGPro Individual Membership or phone 9268 6403.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 37

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

QUEENSCLIFFE SCORES GOLD The Borough of Queenscliffe has received a Gold Award for its 2016-17 Annual Report at the 2018 Australasian Reporting Awards.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the Council has performed at such an exceptional level. The award speaks to the ongoing hard work and dedication

HUME APP HITS THE MARK An app developed by Hume City

make payments, and access Council

Council to help residents communicate

information on the go. The most popular

with Council is hitting the mark in the

functions of the app reflect the most

community. In just three years since its

popular enquires that customer service

launch, the app has been downloaded

staff receive – including questions

more than 25,000 times.

about rubbish, payment of rates,

The app makes it easy for residents to report issues in their community,

and reporting of problems.

The app has helped Hume’s growing community manage simple tasks without

of Queenscliffe staff and Councillors to

the need to call or visit Customer Services

provide an outstanding level of service to the local community.

Centres. This has had a flow on effect

The judges commented that the

spend more time resolving enquiries

Annual Report was very well written,

and, when needed, reporting back to

with excellent reporting on the financial

customers with greater ease.

as customer service staff can now

statements, strategic objectives and

The app has averaged 640 downloads

volunteer contributions, as well as clear

per month, with that number being closer

and appreciative reference to community

to 800 in the past six months.

involvement. In particular, the transparency of Council’s reporting of progress on Council Plan initiatives and performance was highlighted.

To receive a Gold Award, a report must

NEW DIRECTOR AT GREATER BENDIGO

demonstrate overall excellence in annual

Andrew Cooney has taken up the role

Andrew is a Bendigo resident and former

reporting and provide high quality coverage

of Director Corporate Performance

Chair of the AFL Central Victoria Football

of most aspects of ARA criteria, full

at the City of Greater Bendigo.

Commission and current Chair of the

disclosure of key aspects of core business,

He was formerly Executive Director

and outstanding disclosures in major areas.

Partnerships and Sector Performance at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and prior to this was General Manager Governance and Strategy at Coliban Water.

Andrew’s Local Government experience includes working as Director Community and Corporate Services at Gannawarra Shire Council and Manager Organisational Development at Loddon Shire Council.

CEO Mr Niemann said Andrew is a respected leader who has led a variety of innovative and strategic changes in the roles he has performed. His achievements include implementing initiatives to

Winners are grinners – Borough of Queenscliffe Mayor, Cr Susan Salter (left) and Jessica Chappell, Executive Officer Community Engagement and Customer Services, with the ARA Gold Award.

achieve cost efficiencies, improving organisational and Board governance, and delivering projects that benefit customers and the community.

38 | PROFILE SPRING 2018

Bendigo division of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

MAKING STORIES AMAZING When Kylie Carlson, Coordinator Community Learning and Partnerships at Yarra City Council, saw the storytime at her local library, where she wanted to take her two young sons, she thought “whoa, my boys would never cope with that!”

Both of Kylie’s sons have Autism Spectrum Disorder, and at the time she made a mental note that storytime was another thing their family, and families like hers, couldn’t participate in.

But when Kylie started working at Yarra Plenty Regional Library’s Mill Park branch, as the Branch Manager she made it her mission to create more inclusive spaces, practices and programing within public libraries.

Just five years on and the ‘Sensitive Storytimes’ Kylie pioneered are also now regular features at the five libraries in the City of Yarra where Kylie started working last year. Sensitive Storytimes help children on the autism spectrum, and children with similar sensitivities, feel more comfortable and able

to participate. Sensory aids are incorporated into the sessions and tools include a visual timer, schedule board with Picture Exchange Communication System cards and a sensory tent.

Now Yarra Libraries’ children’s and youth team have been trained to deliver specific Sensitive Storytimes and through Kylies direction have also rolled out inclusive practices during their regular preschool storytime sessions.

Yarra Libraries partnered with AMAZE, the Victorian peak body for people on the autism spectrum and their supporters, and the Public Libraries Victoria Network to deliver a Sensitive Storytime online training resource to all public librarians in Australia.

The resource was formally launched in July at Yarra’s award-winning Bargoonga Nganjin, North Fitzroy Library with 80 librarians from across Victoria to hear how they could incorporate these practices into their library services.

1,300 YEARS OF SERVICE RECOGNISED

From left, Frankston CEO, Dennis Hovenden, Hank Bruin, Mayor, Colin Hampton, and Ian Wykes.

A group of 83 Frankston City Council staff were last month recognised for clocking up more than more than 1,300 years service between them.

This included two staff members, Hank Bruin and Ian Wykes, who have each worked at the Council for more than 40 years.

Frankston Mayor, Cr Colin Hampton thanked Hank and Ian for the contribution they had not only made to Council, but to the community.

Cr Hampton said a lot had happened in the world since they started working at the Council in the 1970s. In 1973, when Hank first started at Council, the world was in the thick of the Watergate scandal and Queen Elizabeth officially opened the Sydney Opera House.

Three years later, when Ian started, Fidel Castro was sworn in as the President of Cuba, Apple was formed

by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak and Nadia Comaneci scored the first ever perfect score in gymnastics.

At a local level they have seen the Council undergo significant changes including the introduction of EastLink, Peninsula Link and Bayside Shopping Centre, the construction of the Frankston Arts Centre and Library precinct. They have also seen multi-million dollar investments into the Frankston waterfront, local playgrounds and the growth of Monash University, Chisholm Institute, Frankston Hospital, Peninsula Private and Frankston Private Hospitals.

Council has 212 staff who have clocked up more than 10 years of service, with a cumulative total of 1,780 years.

Children enjoy a Sensitive Storytime session.

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 39

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

THE NEW ROCHY LEADS THE WAY The small township of Rochester could have chosen to ‘throw in the towel’ or address the issue head on following the announcement that Murray Goulburn, the town’s main source of employment, was to close its manufacturing plant.

Through a community led group, Rochester Open for Business, the residents of Rochester joined forces with local and state government to develop a social and economic plan to set a future direction for the

township without a Murray Goulburn.

Together, a coordinated response to this impact was delivered.

created a platform for economic growth and social cohesion via celebrating the strength of the township and its people.

The nine month project involved significant community consultation, using Campaspe Shire Council’s newly adopted community engagement framework based on the IAP2 framework.

The engagement focused on the community, not Council, identifying what makes Rochy great and developing key priorities. The result was a plan that

Four key directions were developed: • Link the town to the land. Reveal the surrounding land and promote local nature, open space and agriculture • A great place to live. Build on the town’s unique assets to retain and attract people to live and prosper here • See the opportunity. Encourage and support new ideas, explore options by working together • Share the skills. Create more opportunities for revealing local expertise and craftsmanship Supported by projects broken down into short, medium and long term, the plan will help build positive perceptions of Rochester and act as a guide for community supported economic development. Two projects already completed, painting of the Graincorp silos and Tiger Bikes, a bike sharing program, have both been well received.

The brightly painted Graincorp Silos.

PORTLAND LIBRARY REOPENS The refurbished Bentinck Street library in Portland opened its doors on Saturday 4 August.

The library welcomed 1,483 visitors on the opening day, offering the opportunity to celebrate with children’s activities, food trucks and markets.

The Portland Library redevelopment, undertaken with the assistance of State Government funding, includes a children’s area, local history room, meeting spaces, and creation of a dedicated youth and teen chill out area.

Children enjoy facilities in the redeveloped library.

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NEW CATEGORY IN 2019 AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE We are pleased to announce the addition of a new category in our 2019 Awards for Excellence – the Indigenous Community Partnership Initiative developed in conjunction with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

This new category, which recognises initiatives or programs that have been undertaken in conjunction with the Indigenous community, takes the total number of categories to 10: • Innovative Management Initiative • Service Delivery Initiative

• Specials Projects Initiative

• Community Partnerships Initiative • Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative ($2 million and under) • Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative (over $2 million) • Organisational Diversity

• Sustainability Initiative

• Young Achiever

• Indigenous Community Partnership Initiative These awards promote and celebrate the outstanding work being undertaken and delivered by individuals and teams working in Victorian Councils.

Nominations for the 2019 awards close on Monday 22 October. 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 2019 LGPro Annual Conference Dinner on Thursday, 21 February at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Visit 2019 Awards for Excellence for full details on how to nominate for an award or for further information contact the LGPro office on (03) 9268 6404.

THESE AWARDS ARE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

2018 LGPro

Corporate Partners Networking Event Thursday, 11 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 senior people working in Local Government.

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 2018/19 financial Corporate Partners.

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

KATHY HYNES & DEBBIE BLANDFORD Kathy Hynes is the Manager Parks & Open Space at Banyule City Council and is also an LGPro Board Member. After graduating from a course in forest management she was keen to see the plantation forests in New Zealand, the mangroves in Australia, and the old growth forests in Canada. She made it to New Zealand, then came to Australia almost eight years ago and liked it so much she has never left. Since settling in Australia, Kathy worked in private industry in arboriculture before moving into Local Government initially at Knox City Council, and then moving to Banyule in January this year.

Kathy Hynes What she enjoys outside of work I absolutely love trail running around the Yarra Valley.

When coming to live in Australia from Ireland the strangest things she encountered For me the strangest/ scariest things I have encountered is the Australian wildlife, from giant spiders to grumpy snakes!

Her last holiday destination

Her favourite film this year

Glendalough, Ireland – it is said to be the place where heaven and earth meet, and is certainly worth a visit.

Deadpool 2.

Who she would you like to sit next to on public transport

I think the Irish use of the word ‘craic’ has caused some confusion since I have been here, we often ask ‘How is the craic?’, meaning ‘How are things’ but this one seems to get lost in translation in Oz!

Sean O’Rourke, he is my favourite Irish political radio host and I bet he has some stories to tell.

With her lovely Irish accent, some words people have found hardest to understand.

Debbie Blandford’s career in Local Government spans more than 13 years. A communications professional by trade, Debbie began her career in communications at Hobsons Bay City Council before making the move to Baw Baw Shire in 2010 to manage the communications and customer service teams. While at Baw Baw she had a career change, translating previous experience in customer-facing roles to manage the regulatory services department. Debbie is currently Unit Manager Local Laws and City Amenity at the City of Whittlesea.

Debbie Blandford What she enjoys outside of work

What she likes most about her job

I’m a novice cake decorator and love baking and decorating delicious goodies for my family and friends. I also have an unhealthy obsession with true crime podcasts – they keep me entertained on my commute.

I love that no two days are ever the same. Being in a regulatory role, we get to see and hear some weird and wonderful things and use our creativity to help solve problems for our community.

Her AFL football team

I love to travel and I’ve been lucky to travel to many amazing places. South America is next on my to-do list.

The mighty Bombers, even though I come from a family of Collingwood supporters!

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Her dream holiday

The last book she read?

‘I’ll Be Gone In The Dark’ by Michelle McNamara.

What her last meal would comprise?

It would be either a Greek or Thai feast, followed by dessert of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream.

DIARY DATES PROGRAMS

LGProVIC

DATE

INFORMATION

Nominations open on 3 October and close on 9 November for the 2019 program

To equip and support senior executives in Local Government.

To learn more visit XLP

Nominations open on 3 October and close on 9 November for the 2019 program

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

Tuesday 23 October, LGPro Office

PROGRAMS

Connect with us at

Thursday 25 October, LGPro Office

A program to provide anyone writing or authorising Council reports with a better understanding of what constitutes a good report. To learn more visit Local Government Report Writing

For non-specialist governance staff whose roles require them to have a clear understanding of the governance context and arrangements. To learn more visit Good Decision Making

Thursday 22 November, LGPro Office

A program to introduce career thinking and planning skills and concepts to EA/PA’s, administration officers and customer service staff. To learn more visit Thinking Career and Leadership

Thursday 20 September, Warrnambool Wednesday 17 October, LGPro Office Wednesday 31 October, Horsham Tuesday 20 November, Wangaratta Wednesday 5 December, LGPro Office

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

Thursday 11 October, Richmond Town Hall

A networking event for LGPro Corporate Partners.

To learn more visit Corporate Partner Networking Event

Thursday 29 November at 6pm, CQ Functions, 113 Queen Street, Melbourne

A complimentary event for LGPro Individual Members to network with friends and colleagues.

EVENTS

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES Corporate Partners Networking Event

LGPro Individual Member Event

Friday 26 October, Arts Centre Melbourne

For Local Government staff working in the areas of corporate, community and social planning

Nominations close on Monday 22 October

Acknowledging the excellent work being undertaken in the Local Government sector

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

PROFILE SPRING 2018 | 43

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CONFERENCES

CONFERENCES/SEMINARS/AWARDS

WHEN IT COMES TO EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT, WE HAVE TWO OBJECTIVES…

Minimise your risk. Maximise your productivity.

For over 40 years that is what McArthur has always been about. No whistles, no bells, just 100% clientfocused business objectives.

Don’t take a risk with your executive recruitment, or your career, contact Nick Kelly at McArthur:

t: (03) 9828 6565

e: nick.kelly@mcarthur.com.au

w: mcarthur.com.au