Profile Magazine Spring 2019

Local Government Professionals quarterly magazine

Spring 2019

2019 LGPRO Active Ageing & Wellbeing Seminar incLusive connections New LGPro CEO

2019 Women’s events

Award winner

Introducing Jo-anne Chapman

See pictorial spread

Murrindindi takes the prize

LOCAL GOVERNMENT REMUNERATION SERVICES

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It is our unparalleled experience and genuine expertise that makes sure your remuneration strategies are on the money, so to find out more, contact Mark O’Brien:

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• Ensure competitive advantage • Optimise recruitment

CONTENTS 6-10 2019 Women’s Events and Sally Isaac Award winners Featuring pictures from these events and the winner of the Sally Isaac Award.

11 Meet our new Board Member Bruce Dobson from Boroondara Council joins our Board and we farewell and thank Rebecca McKenzie from Glen Eira Council for her service.

Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)

12-13 First Active Ageing & Wellbeing Seminar

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

See the program for our new Active Ageing & Wellbeing Seminar which replaces the Aged & Disability Services Seminar.

DEADLINES

18-19 Three new women to lead Councils in Victoria Meet the three women who have recently taken the helm at Victoria Councils and read why they believe there are not more female CEOs.

21 New look for our Thinking Career & Leadership Program This program has a new look and a new facilitator who speaks about the importance of career planning.

Profile is published quarterly.

The deadline for Summer 2019 edition is 7 November 2019.

The magazine will circulated electronically in December 2019.

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

33 The XLP class of 2019 Participants in our 2019 Executive Leadership Program (XLP) celebrate their graduation.

For information or to book advertising in Profile, please call Vicki Amiguet on (03) 9268 6400 or via email to vickia@lgpro.com CREDITS Publisher: LGPro (03) 9268 6400 Editor: Vicki Amiguet Design: ADW Design, 0411 969 141 www.adwdesign.com.au

Connect with us at

Above: April Williams from Monash City Council and Tammy Smith from Yarriamback Shire Council share morning tea at our Women's Professional Development Forum.

LGProVIC PROFILE SPRING 2019

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LGPRO THE LEADING VOICE What does it actually mean to be a “leading voice”? As we enter the next phase of our growth at LGPro, with a new CEO, the service that we provide to our members also comes under scrutiny.

What is it that we do well? What do members value

We have advocated for better

the most? Is having a voice and taking a leadership stand

protections for authorised officers of

for people working in Local Government still the most

Councils as they go about their work – similar to

important thing we can do?

the protections afforded Emergency Services personnel.

As we welcome Jo-Anne Chapman to head the team,

We have also reviewed and participated in sector-wide

we are also taking time to pause and reflect on the

conversations affecting equity and diversity in the workplace.

achievements of the past 12 months, as well as look at opportunities for the coming year.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BURNING ISSUES

We know that our Special Interest Groups, conferences,

On behalf of the Board, we are interested in your voices,

leadership programs, and professional development events

in what you would like to see more, or less, of. Is advocacy

and activities are well attended. We know that you value the

still important to you and if yes, what are the burning issues

ability to network and interact with colleagues within and

that you would like us to stand-up for and lead on?

across Councils. But how well do you understand or how much do you value the advocacy and lobbying work, the

As we continue to grow in numbers, we also grow the

“leading voice” role, that LGPro takes?

breadth and complexity of the work we do. It is an exciting time to be part of the LGPro network and I encourage you

OUR ADVOCACY WORK

to make the most of your membership and the most of your individual voice.

Over the past few months, we have been active in putting forward views regarding the six reforms proposed for

JUSTINE LINLEY

inclusion in the new Local Government Bill 2019.

President LGPro Board and CEO Ballarat City Council

From left, LGPro President, Justine Linley at the Women’s Professional Development Forum with LGPro Board Members, Celia Haddock and Brendan McGrath.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

FIRST FEMALE TO LEAD LGPRO Our President Justine Linley announced on 8 August that Jo-anne Chapman would be the first female Chief Executive Officer of LGPro. She will take up the position on Monday 23 September.

With strong senior executive experience across all four sectors (government, commercial, not-for-profit and peak body), Jo-anne brings expertise in policy and regulatory leadership, advocacy, external relations and contract management.

DELIVERING ON OUR VISION “We are delighted that Jo-anne will be leading LGPro at an exciting time in our story. She will bring leadership

She has worked at regional, state and national levels and

and energy to this role as LGPro continues to deliver on

liaised closely with the Local Government sector throughout

our vision for our members, we know that Jo-anne will

her Government career previously in Queensland.

continue to position LGPro as the peak member association

Jo-anne will join LGPro from St Vincent’s Health Australia,

for Local Government professionals.”

one of Australia’s largest not-for-profit health and aged cared

Jo-anne thanked Justine and the LGPro Board for their

organisations where she is General Manager Government

confidence in appointing her as their first female CEO

and External Relations.

of LGPro.

Prior to this, Jo-anne worked at a specialist medical college,

“I am excited to be working with the level of government

Rural Health Workforce Australia and KPMG.

that interacts closest to the Victorian community. I am looking forward to working with the amazing team at LGPro

EXCITING TIME FOR OUR SECTOR Jo-anne joins LGPro at an exciting time as more women are being appointed to senior roles in our sector and we continue

to continue to deliver leadership, professional development and representation in the pursuit of excellence within Local Government,” Jo-anne said.

to work hard and advocate for improved gender equity in

“The vision and values of LGPro, being the leading voice for

Local Government.

people working in Local Government that values integrity,

For the first time in Victorian Local Government history we have a female CEO and President of all three peak bodies in our sector including the MAV, VLGA and now LGPro. In announcing Ms Chapman’s appointment Justine said:

diversity and responsiveness, are ones that resonates deeply with me.

“A key priority for me will be meeting with members as I look to build on the great work of LGPro”

“The CEO recruitment process was very robust and thorough and Jo-anne was chosen from an extremely strong field of candidates.”

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2019 WOMEN’S EVENTS

Kindeep Kaur and Sue Corless from Monash City Council.

Jamila Rizvi was a popular speaker at the Women’s Network Dinner.

Tracey Slatter, Managing Director of Barwon Water participated in the You Can Ask That session.

Hume City Council colleagues, from left, Lisa Ippolito, Teena Ross, Tina Georgiev and Martha Martin.

More than 500 people attended the Women’s Network Dinner.

Lee-Anne Harmer and Allison Jones from Bass Coast Shire Council.

The panel discussion on supporting tolerance and inclusion proved popular with delegates.

Keynote speaker, Tasneem Chopra.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

WHAT OUR DELEGATES SAID...

“PROFESSIONAL and engaging” Jess Baillie from Yarra Ranges Council who is a participant in our 2019 Emerging Leaders Program did a wonderful job as MC at the dinner.

A delegate poses a question during a session.

“Provided GREAT insights” “Mindfulness was the PERFECT way to begin” “INSPIRING presentations” “FANTASTIC and thought provoking”

Jennie Hill from Sharp Pencils talked about enablers for success.

LGPro President, Justine Linley opened the forum.

2019 Sally Isaac Award winner, Siobhan Hardiman during her acceptance speech.

Helga Svendsen ran an interactive session at the forum.

Greater Shepparton City Council colleagues, from left Rebekah Mackin, Hayley Trotter, Cheryl Dealy and Ebony Atkinson.

Stewart Gillies during the networking session.

Parbinata Carolyn Briggs AM gave the Welcome to Country.

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Mindfulness consultant, Renee Callander opened and closed the forum with mindfulness exercises.

Jasmine Orlando (left) and Karling Colomiere from Casey City Council.

Tracey Egan, Kate Bolaffi, Amey Rountree and Kerry Jansons all from Monash City Council.

Judy Chalkley from Knox City Council (centre) caught up with Ballarat City Council colleagues Sarah Cuthbert (left) and Susan Kennedy (right).

Kate McCaughey was co presenter of the Sally Isaac Award.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

There was a large contingent from Nillumbik City Council at the dinner.

Karen Gately from Corporate Dojo shares a joke during the interactive session she led.

Stacy Williams from Gannawarra Shire Council chaired a session.

WHAT OUR DELEGATES SAID...

“Good TIPS and TRICKS” Jenny Gray CEO of Zoos Victoria during her keynote address.

“LOVED the content”

The Banyule Council team who attended the dinner.

“FABULOUS tips and information” “Left me feeling more EMPOWERED” ““HONEST insights” “INCREDIBLE and inspiring panel” Kerryn Fisher from Bayside Council left with Danielle Watts, Deb Murray, Freya Carlson, Tara Bell and Georgia Wyrdeman all from Kingston City Council.

“Extremely VALUABLE and informative” “Beyond EXCELLENT” “SENSATIONAL workshop, so worthwhile” “Full of practical ACTIONS”

Kylie Bell from Wren Learning talked to delegates about getting more out of their day.

Michael Plowright from Working Well Together with Julie-Anne Houghton from Glen Eira City Council.

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

Women’s Professional Development Forum

Women’s Network Dinner

MAJOR SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

PROFILE SPRING 2019

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2019 SALLY ISAAC AWARD WINNER Siobhan Hardiman, Team Leader Youth Services at Monash City Council is the winner of the 2019 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award.

She won the award from a strong field of 14 candidates which reflects the exceptional work that young women leaders are undertaking in the community.

In her time at Monash, Siobhan has developed many programs and initiatives for young people including the successful Young Women’s Leadership Program (YWLP) which aims to increase the skills and confidence of young women and to address the barriers around gender equity.

We asked Siobhan what winning the award meant to her?

“As I learnt more about Sally, and when I met the other award nominees, I definitely felt like I was in the company of giants, and a bit of that imposter syndrome I know so many of us feel at times.

I feel so honoured to have received this award and to be included with this group of women and with Sally’s legacy. It’s not only paved a bridge for me to pursue my goals, but also made me feel more confident in being authentic to who I am as a woman. It’s reinforced my hope that there is space for all women, however you see yourself and present to the world, in leadership positions across all industries.

I am so grateful to Sally’s family and LGPro for this award and the support.”

What will Siobhan use the $10,000 scholarship for?

“In 2018, I graduated from a Masters of Social Work at Monash University and it was a major challenge studying part time and working full time. The study absolutely strengthened my passion for working in the community. It also motivated me to think differently.

I started thinking about the possibility of a PhD and looking at how we can work in communities with wide scale interventions that are accessible to all, with evidence-based outcomes. Now, because of this scholarship I have the opportunity to start this process and bring together my love of social work, research and working with young people and families.”

What Siobhan likes most about working with the community?

“I absolutely love my job. I’ve had the privilege of running really diverse programs in the Monash community, providing individual support to young people and their families and working with the best team of professionals I’ve ever been around.

Over the last few years I’ve had the support of my leaders to launch the Young Women’s Leadership Program, funded by Vic Health, which addresses two areas I’m passionate about creating change in. The first is that we know societally young women are not being pushed into and retained in leadership positions, particularly in fields where female representation is low. The program also addresses gender equity in our community and what our young women are capable of. It explores how sexism and discrimination hurts everyone, not only women, and how we as a community can grow.

Since 2016 more than 100 young women have graduated from the program and I have been regularly in awe and inspired by these phenomenal young women I’ve had the pleasure of supporting.

I have no doubt I have now met the women that will not only be leaders in the Monash community, but the Australian and global communities as well. If it wasn’t for this seed of an idea that became this program, and with the support of Monash, I would never have had the opportunity to support these young women in their own leadership pathways. The program is now being rolled out in three regions across Victoria.

2019 SALLY ISAAC NOMINEES • Lana Barnett, Active Ageing Project Officer, Boroondara City Council • Nina Barry-Macaulay, Senior Advocacy Officer, Bass Coast Shire Council • Amy Boyd, Executive Manager Regulatory Services, Ballarat City Council • Naomi Clarke, Urban Designer, Moreland City Council

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

Siobhan Hardiman with the Isaac family.

• Scarlet Cridland, Youth Engagement Officer, Colac Area Health, Colac Otway Shire

• Cheree Hunter, Social Enterprise and Local Jobs Coordinator, Banyule City Council

• Jo Cuscaden, Project Manager Urban Renewal Strategic Planning & Land Use Policy, Ballarat City Council

• Melissa Liberatore, Volunteer, Monash City Council

• Vera Fordyce, Strategic Planning Officer, South Gippsland Shire Council • Meghan Hopper, Advocacy Coordinator, Moonee Valley City Council

• Hayley Rosenboom, Retail Facilitation Officer, Moreland City Council • Alicia Thomas, Marketing Officer, Ballarat City Council • Jessia Trijsburg, Coordinator Community Capacity, Melton City Council

CHANGES TO OUR BOARD Bruce Dobson, Director Customer Experience and Business Transformation at Boroondara City Council has joined the LGPro Board to fill the resignation of Rebecca McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer at Glen Eira City Council. The vacancy was filled using the countback method.

Bruce has worked in Local Government since 2001

She initially nominated for the Board as a way to build her

starting as Manager of Finance at Yarra Ranges Council

networks as she didn’t have a long career history in Local

before moving to Darebin Council in 2005 where he

Government. She also wanted Board experience and to

was Chief Financial Officer for three years before taking

make a wider contribution to the sector.

up the Director Corporate Services role for two years.

Rebecca has seen much change over the last six years.

He has been in a Director role at Boroondara City Council

“LGPro has gone from being a predominantly professional

since 2010 starting as Director Corporate Services then

development organisation, to broadening our reach to

moving to Director Environment & Infrastructure from

include more advocacy and sector capacity building. We are

2013 until this year when he took on the role of Director

still first and foremost for our members and continue to run

Customer Experience & Business Transformation. Prior

top quality professional development programs and events,

to working in Local Government, Bruce worked at

but we have also become a more influential voice with

PricewaterhouseCoopers for 10 years providing audit

government and with other stakeholders,” she said.

and advisory services to mainly retail clients.

During her time on the Board Rebecca said she tried to

Giving back to the sector he has loved working in for the

bring energy and fresh thinking and to help to forge stronger

last 18 years was Bruce’s primary motive for nominating

relationships with Ministers, stakeholders, and other peak

for the LGPro Board, but he also wanted to help shape

bodies. “I tried to raise the organisation’s profile and voice on

LGPro to be a strong voice for the sector and a leader in

key issues such as gender representation, workforce planning,

developing professionals working in Local Government.

Local Government Act reform, and protection for authorised

“I’m looking forward to working with a great Board team and helping to set the direction for a strong LGPro into the future. It’s an exciting time, with the opportunity to build

officers. It’s very much a team effort though, and I’ve been fortunate to have great Board colleagues working alongside me on these issues.”

on LGPro’s strengths, and with a new CEO bringing new

“I can honestly say being on the Board ticked all the boxes.

perspectives and ideas in how LGPro can best serve the

When you work for one Council it’s easy to take a single

sector into the future,” he said.

Council view and stay within your comfort zone, using the

“More than ever, Local Government needs strong capability to deliver on its role of building and supporting local communities. Under increasing scrutiny, the sector also needs a voice for advocacy to influence government decision making.

“LGPro plays a key role in these areas, developing

Naomi McNamara

‘busy’ excuse. Being on the Board genuinely gives you a whole sector view, helps you to build a broader empathy with the issues your state-wide colleagues are facing, and puts you in a position to influence change – even if just in a small way,” she said.

professionals within the sector, providing forums for information exchange and learning, and influencing key stakeholders for the sector and community’s benefit. I’m excited to play a part in this.”

ACKNOWLEDGING REBECCA’S CONTRIBUTION Rebecca McKenzie has made a significant contribution during her six years on the Board including two years as President and two years as Vice President.

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FOCUS ON ACTIVE Ageing & WELLbeing Thursday 12 September. Seminar from 9am & Awards Dinner from 6.30pm

DATE:

VENUE:

Arts Centre Melbourne

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Anyone working at any level the in sector with an interest in active ageing and wellbeing

The 2019 LGPro Active Ageing and Wellbeing Seminar on Thursday September 12 replaces our former Aged & Disability Services Seminar. The new title and focus reflects the changing nature of the sector with many Councils moving out of the direct delivery of aged and disability services and into the areas of active ageing and wellbeing.

This year’s theme is INCLUSIVE CONNECTIONS and sessions will focus on Local Government’s role in building inclusive communities to foster the ability for the ageing population, younger people (under 65 years) and those with a disability to lead full and satisfying lives. The one day Seminar will be followed by a dinner at the same venue where the winners of the 2019 LGPro Active Ageing & Wellbeing Awards will be announced.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS MARCUS RILEY Marcus is an author, Chief Executive Officer of BallyCara and Chairman of the Global Ageing Network. BallyCara is an organisation that provides retirement living, residential aged care and community care in south-east Queensland and the Global Ageing Network represents 24,000 organisations in 52 countries.

He will draw on his 20 years’ experience in the ageing industry to provide his philosophy for ageing well. The increased longevity that most of us will enjoy is often viewed through a negative lens when in fact it should be seen as a great opportunity, according to Marcus.

Marcus believes providers and professionals involved in the field of ageing have a responsibility to foster an increased awareness of this opportunity and enable more people to age successfully. While successful ageing is not easy, he says the formula is simple.

BRENDA APPLETON Brenda is co-chair of LGBTI Victorian Government Taskforce, Chair of Transgender Victoria, a member of the Victorian Mental Health Expert Taskforce and the Victorian Government’s Elder Abuse Roundtable. She was inducted onto the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2017, received a Victorian Senior of the Year award in 2018 and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the 2019 Australia Day Honours.

After 35 years working in the corporate sector Brenda retired in 2009 and since has been heavily involved in volunteering with a wide range of community groups, including the LGBTI communities in Melbourne. She says trans and gender diverse people can face numerous challenges, especially as they age, including discrimination, loneliness, isolation, fear of not being treated with respect and being subjected to negative misconceptions and beliefs. In her keynote address, Brenda will share her lived experience and offer her insights into what we as a society can do to assist trans and gender diverse people to age positively and feel connected.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Four concurrent workshops covering: the role of Local Government in hoarding and squalor; a model to address social isolation; the impact of meals on wheels for older adults; and wellness re-enablement using diversity planning • Presentation and demonstration of dance therapy and how it relates to wellbeing • An address by Jackie Kearney PSM, Acting Director, Seniors, Ageing and Aged Care Branch, Department of Health and Human Services on what the government is doing address ageism and ensure that older people are engaged and connected in their communities • Active Ageing & Wellbeing Awards Dinner.

Click here for further information and to register for the Seminar and Awards Dinner.

SEMINAR MAJOR SPONSOR:

SEMINAR SUPPORTING SPONSOR:

AWARDS SPONSOR:

2019 JLT RISK REPORT WHAT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IDENTIFY AS THEIR KEY RISKS

For a copy, please contact Bronson Justus +61 3 8664 9314 or bronson.justus@jlta.com.au JLT Public Sector is a division of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Pty Ltd (ABN 69 009 098 864 AFS Licence 226827) which is part of the Marsh & McLennan (MMC) group of companies. SG19-0810. LCPA 19/102.

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THE CHANGING FACE OF COUNCILS The program for our 2019 Corporate Planners Conference being held on Friday 25 October at Arts Centre Melbourne has just been released.

The theme for the one day conference is the Changing face of Councils. It will start at 9am and finish around 4.45pm with the announcement of the winner of the 2019 Corporate Planners Network Award. This will be followed by drinks, canapes and networking.

The organising committee comprising Birgit King (Yarra Ranges Council), Jen Martin (Manningham City Council), Jim Barrett (Darebin City Council), Tanya McGuckian (Whitehorse City Council) and Amanda Rigby (Brimbank City Council) has worked hard to present a program that is relevant to Corporate Planners in Local Government.

As well as Corporate Planners the conference would be relevant to anyone working in the sector who is interested in: • Long term future planning • Innovating with limited resources • Communication and influencing • Using data, insights and analytics to make better decisions and address key community priorities

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS • Keynote address by work futurist Anne Moore who will examine the dynamics behind emerging work trends

for the next five to 10 years and how each of us can develop new mindsets, skills and tools that will ensure we remain on track with our livelihood and what matters most in our lives.

• A dynamic session by Warren Tate, a communications expert and professional mentor and coach on how to get your message across through story telling and using the right presentation techniques and body language.

• A workshop by Lisa Smith from Minds at Work who will explore how we can be part of the innovation shift.

• Change Management session by Catherine Trahair, an Organisational Development Consultant who will explore the relationship between project management, change management and effective leadership.

• A presentation by Daniel Booth, City Analytics Specialist with Melbourne City Council who will share how the Council is using data insights to drive decision making and business transformation.

MAJOR SPONSOR OF THE CORPORATE PLANNERS NETWORK CONFERENCE & AWARD

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

CONFERENCE PRESENTERS ANNE MOORE Anne is a work futurist, social scientist and serial entrepreneur. Her experience ranges across government and the private sector over more than three decades. She brings hindsight, data and powerful insights that make sense of emerging trends that will change the lives of all workers over the next decade. Anne presented at Australian Federal Government’s Senate Enquiry into the Future of Work and Workers in 2018, and regularly appears on TV, radio and in the national press.

WARREN TATE Warren is a professional speaker, international best selling author and expert in communication. He has worked with corporate management, sales teams and education institutions developing and empowering customer centric, presentation and interpersonal skills to help any managers and leaders to influence more powerfully. Warren uses engaging stories and humour in his presentation, while incorporating tangible outcomes for his audience. He speaks on navigating change effectively through upgrading the Number #1 Skillset on the planet, communication.

LISA SMITH Lisa is a professional thinker dedicated to helping people unlock their innate creativity and to empower them to think differently – for themselves. She is a big hearted, agile-minded individual with a wealth of innovative ideas and a depth of experience. After years working in a highly challenging corporate environment she decided to take her own advice and has emerged as an inspiring and creative thinker with a natural ability to engender change in a mindful way and to solve complex problems simply but innovatively.

CATHERINE TRAHAIR Catherine is a senior organisation development professional with extensive experience working across all staffing levels within private, public and not for profit sectors. Her background includes time as the National Training and Development Manager for the largest printing and publishing company in Australasia and the Learning and Organisation Development Manager for a large public health facility. Catherine offers a wealth of practical expertise in the areas of change, team development, and coaching individuals and teams to drive cultural and behavioural change across their organisations.

DANIEL BOOTH Daniel is the City Analytics Specialist at Melbourne City Council where he combines data science, economics, and common sense to provide better insights to make better decisions. Daniel is in charge of Melbourne's City Analytics program which produces high-resolution forecasts to estimate the best place to put Council facilities and services into the future. He has experience in the property and urban economics space from both a private and public sector perspective and holds a Masters and Bachelor’s degree in economics, both from the University of Melbourne.

Click here for the full program and registration details.

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2019 LGPRO CUSTOMER SERVICE CONFERENCE

Delegates in discussion during an interactive session.

Metin Unal (second Left) and Mark Needham (right) from OracleCMS who were Major Sponsors of the conference with Yung Truong (left) and Ailsa Wines from Bass Coast Shire Council.

From left, Brooke Crawford, Damian Spirovski and Tracey Riddle from Kingston City Council.

Lachlan Roberts and Nick Doherty from Maroondah City Council.

From left, Liz Nedic, Grant Carlson and Katrina Pizzi, from Port Phillip City Council.

Rebecca Kerr (left) and Lucy Proctor from Yarra Ranges Council.

Michael Cutrona from Casey City Council (left) chats with Dianne Donaghy, Selena McMinn and Rachel Cirillo from Mildura Rural City Council.

Some members of the Customer Service Conference organising committee, from left, Mike Whittaker, Sally Schimleck, Swathi Kartik, Nick Doherty and Brandon Davis.

From left, Johan Thomas, Amarita Kinnoo and Kiran Nagra from Glen Eira City Council.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

Paul Ulloa from CSBA with Jo Grant, Tania Shepherd and Marnie Baker from West Wimmera Shire Council.

Closing keynote speaker, Craig Harper.

MURRINDINDI WINS 2019 CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

AWARD SPONSOR

THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Congratulations to Murrindindi Shire Council for winning the 2019 LGPro Customer Service Award for its Customer First Project.

The winner of the award was announced at our successful 2019 Customer Service Conference held over one and a half days on 15 and 16 August.

Murrindindi’s winning project delivered on its Council Plan promise to customers to be innovative and make Council easier to deal with. It aimed to streamline systems and avoid duplication, align processes with customer needs and equip Council staff to provide better customer service to the community.

Running from early 2018 to 30 June 2019, the Customer First Project has resulted in a major shift in the delivery of customer service for Murrindindi Shire, reflected by a 46.5%

Customer Experience

• Uniforms for frontline staff and branding on Council vehicles to improve Council’s visibility

• The creation of smart customer request forms on Council’s website.

SPECIALISTS

The Customer First Project hasAustralian created renewed confidence Helping councils improve their that Council is working together to help its customers and20 years customer's experiences for over the community, withthrough staff noticing best increased practice: levels of positive customer feedback about Council’s services.

• Customer Satisfaction Surveys • Service Quality Assurance and Training Congratulations to Kingston City Council and West Wimmera • Performance Benchmarking Shire Council who were finalists in the award.

03 9605 4900

www.csba.com.au

increase in the number of satisfied customers.

During the 18 month project a number of successful initiatives were implemented including: • A new customer service charter and policy • Streamlining more than 60 processes to eliminate duplication and delays in handling customer requests; and moving the organisation across to one CRM system • The introduction of surveys to measure customer satisfaction

The winning team from Murrindindi Shire Council.

THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT

CX EXPERTS Helping Australian councils improve their customer's experiences for over 20 years through best practice:

03 9605 4900

www.csba.com.au

> CX Strategy > Customer research > Service Quality Assurance > Training and Development > CX Performance Benchmarking

BRIDGING THE GENDER EQUITY GAP AT CEO LEVEL LGPro’s ongoing advocacy campaign to see a greater representation of women in senior roles in the sector received a boost recently with three females being appointed to CEO roles at Victorian Councils.

They are – Sarah Philpott, Mildura Rural City Council; Jacqui Weatherill, Stonnington City Council and Julie Reid, Kingston City Council. All have taken up their roles. Their appointments took the number of female CEOs at Victorian Councils to 18.

In this Profile we introduce the women who discuss their aspirations and thoughts on why there are not more female CEOs.

Sarah Philpott Sarah Philpott has worked in Local Government in South Australia, Queensland and now Victoria for more than 20 years starting her career as a library professional, then moving into broader community development, corporate services and city development roles. She has worked at an executive level since 2006, and her most recent role was Director Corporate Services at the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, the third largest metropolitan Council in South Australia.

This is her first CEO role and she is excited about what the opportunity at Mildura brings including being able to work in a diverse and challenging location, and in a role that presents a real opportunity to make a difference, and to be excited and inspired by the work.

Sarah cares about the people she works with – both in the community and in the organisation. “Apart from my experience and my knowledge as an executive in Local Government, I hope to bring a sense of connection, a clear articulation of our future, and a commitment to being a credible partner to deliver for our community,” she said.

Her observation about the gender imbalance at CEO level is that for many women, the requirements of the role, sometimes combined with family obligations, can make it more difficult. “But I am hopeful for the future, as I think that expectations on senior roles are changing, and that women and men are both able to make their contributions based on merit and capability.”

“Having more women as CEOs is more representative of our community and women bring an equal range of leadership capabilities and experiences to these roles.”

MENTORING SESSION WITH CEOS We thank all of the female CEOs at Victorian Councils who kindly offered one hour of their time to a woman working in the sector as a special offer to LGPro financial Individual Members attending our 2019 Women’s Professional Development Forum.

We had a fantastic response to the offer from members attending the Forum. The lucky winners were:

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Phoebe Hanna, Glen Eira Council

Judy Chalkley, Knox City Council

Carlene Lamanna, Indigo Shire Council

Amanda Western, Ballarat City Council

Angela Brophy, Banyule City Council

Keira McDonagh, Mansfield Shire Council

Amanda Shepherd, Colac Otway Shire Council

Laura Learmonth, Latrobe City Council

Vivienne Green, Hepburn Shire Council

Megan Kruger, Central Goldfields Shire Council

Cassandra Kelly, Horsham Rural City Council

Melanie Kerr, Whitehorse City Council

Sam Romaszko, Melton City Council

Josephine Pennicott, Yarra City Council

Jane Bowker, Pyrenees Shire Council

Danielle Watts, Yarra Ranges Council

Shelby Burke, Baw Baw Shire Council

April Williams, Monash City Council.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

Jacqui Weatherill Jacqui was the CEO for The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust for seven years where she established the Trust as a major Victorian community service managing 19 memorial parks and cemeteries across Melbourne. She has also worked at an executive level in Local Government at Boroondara City Council and Benalla Rural City Council and is also a council member of the Swiss based Federation of International Gymnastique (FIG) and President of the FIG Women in Gymnastics Commission.

Jacqui regards being a CEO at Stonnington City Council as a privilege. “It allows me to work with diverse communities and I am driven to make a positive difference. This role helps me have an influence in improving community services, the look and feel of spaces and places and in turn the quality of living for many,” she said.

“There are three values which drive me. They are, the values of fairness, reciprocity and integrity. This leads to creating trust in the organisation and I believe empowers others to achieve.”

Jacqui believes there are many reasons women do not go on to become CEOs including a lack of confidence, competing outside pressures such as raising a family and even ageism.

While there has been progress made she says we need to look at the bigger picture. “The reality is female CEOs in the Victorian Local Government sector still represent less than 20% and outside the sector the numbers are equally unimpressive. In addition, the wage gap between men and women has hardly changed in 15 years and women are still being paid less than men in nearly every job in most industries.”

Julie Reid Julie has worked in Local Government for 30 years both in Australia and the United Kingdom holding roles in rural, urban, coastal planning in large city Councils including the City of Westminster in London. Prior to taking on the Kingston City Council CEO role on 26 August, Julie was Director Engineering Services at Greater Dandenong City Council.

Julie has aspired to be a leader of an organisation from a young age as she wants to make a difference to people’s lives. ”I want to be a strong role model for my son and encourage women in Local Government to be confident and embrace new opportunities,” she said.

She believes there are many reasons for the imbalance in female CEOs in Councils including a lack of confidence, perception of challenges around work life balance and experiences of unconscious bias. “I would like to see more women CEOs to assist in addressing the gender equity gap in Local Government at senior leadership levels. Women have a great deal to offer in senior leadership often bringing strengths in relationship building, communication and engagement,” she said.

Julie is a member of the LGPro Board and feels being on the Board has enabled her to gain broader perspectives of Local Government and to make connections across the sector. She says she is constantly learning and being inspired by the brilliant work of LGPro members and her board colleagues.

In her role as Kingston CEO she plans to focus on helping people, building better places for the community, and be an authentic leader.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

19

PLANNING THE RIGHT CAREER PATH FOR YOU In her career in human resource management and learning and development, Michelle Collett has seen too many people take an adhoc approach to their career.

“So many people simply apply for jobs that interest them

“By using this assessment

as they come along, instead of planning the career path that

tool participants will not only

is right for them,” she said.

be able to identify their strengths

Michelle plans to change this approach as the new facilitator of LGPro’s Thinking Career and Leadership program which provides participants with practical tools to help them to take control of planning their careers.

Registrations are now open for the next full day training session on Tuesday 26 November at the LGPro office at level 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

and weaknesses, but most importantly they will learn about their underutilised strengths.

This will help them to set specific actions that they can implement to help with their career and have the knowledge of how to further develop their action plan,” she said.

There will also be a guest speaker talking about their career in Local Government and lots of practical tips and tools to help participants to advance their career.

It will focus on career planning concepts and practical skills.

There will also be a follow up process to support participants

Michelle’s career planning advice is to aim high and put in

to implement their career plans.

the work to get where you want to be.

The program targets anyone who is wanting to plan for their

"Setting a career plan will help with personal growth

best career, but is particularly suited to executive assistants,

and development, actually setting goals will help you

administration officers and customer service officers.

achieve them," she said.

Michelle is introducing the Langley Strengths Profile test to

Click here for more information and to register for

the program to help participants identify their strengths and

this program or phone 9268 6401.

weaknesses. She will explain the test results and how they can be used to assist in self-development.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES There are still lots of professional development opportunities on offer between now and the end of the year for people working in the sector. We are running specialised one day workshops in Report Writing, Good Governance, Thinking Career and Leadership and Induction to Local Government in October and November. See more details below.

Local Government Report Writing

Good Decision Making

A program to provide anyone writing or authorising Council reports with a better understanding of what constitutes a good report, Thursday 24 October, LGPro Office, 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

For non-specialist governance staff whose roles require them to have a clear understanding of the governance context and arrangements, Tuesday 29 October, LGPro Office, 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

Thinking Career and Leadership

Induction to Local Government

A program to introduce career thinking and planning skills and concepts to EA/PA’s, administration officers and customer service staff, Tuesday 26 November, LGPro Office, 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

Wednesday 16 October, Warrnambool City Council; Wednesday 30 October, Horsham Rural City Council; Tuesday 19 November, Rural City of Wangaratta and Thursday 21 November, LGPro office, 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

21

WHY YOU SHOULD BECOME AN EMERGING LEADER IN 2020 Young leaders working in a range of roles in Councils across Victoria come together in our Emerging Leaders Program each year.

Competition is strong for the 24 places. Many of those applying have heard about the program from others who have participated, while some see it as a way of broadening their horizons and as a vital step on their leadership journey.

Applications for the 2020 Emerging Leaders Program open on Wednesday 9 October and close on Friday 15 November. Click here to learn more.

Three participants in this year’s program – Charmaine Calis, Governance & Risk Coordinator, Mildura Rural City Council; Heath Gillett, Manager Recreation and Leisure, Nillumbik Shire Council and Hannah Rowlands, Communications Coordinator, Whitehorse Council share their experiences below:

WHY DID YOU NOMINATE FOR ELP IN 2019?

Charmaine: We’ve had several staff participate in previous Emerging Leaders programs and they’ve spoken really highly about it. I was interested in learning more about contemporary leadership especially within Local Government and learning from others within the industry.

Heath: It was an opportunity to expose myself to like-minded leaders and challenge my thoughts on leadership.

Hannah: I saw ELP as a way to further develop my leadership skills and build networks with my Local Government colleagues.

WHAT HAVE GOT OUT OF THE PROGRAM?

Charmaine: A lot of what I’ve gained is around self reflection and self confidence, I’m more willing to try new things and step out of my comfort zone thanks to this program.

Heath: A quality network of Local Government leaders and some great change management tips.

Hannah: More confidence in myself as a leader; to the belief that I can take on leadership roles; and strong networks with local government colleagues.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROGRAM FOR YOU?

Charmaine: Listening to Tammi Rose, CEO of Yarra Ranges who I found very inspirational and changed my outlook on what I believed was possible in my career and where I may want to go in the future. My other highlight has been connecting with my Mentor Sheena Frost, Director Corporate Services at City of Casey, her insights and our goal setting has really allowed me to focus on some key improvements and better appreciate the valuable contribution I bring to my team and Council.

Heath: The opportunity to step away from the day to day and focus on personal development.

Hannah: The array of guest speakers who were all very engaging and relevant to us.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

HOW HAS THE PROGRAM HELPED TO PROGRESS YOUR CAREER?

Charmaine: It has encouraged me be more open to career opportunities that I may have not considered previously and also to speak more openly with my Managers about my future career goals.

Heath: I have recently gained promotion to a Manager level on the back of the program.

Hannah: It has helped me to strengthen my own leadership style which has proven valuable in my current role at Whitehorse City Council. It’s also been very beneficial engaging with others in the group outside my Local Government communications network.

HAVE ANY TOOLS YOU LEARNT HELPED IN YOUR ROLE?

Charmaine: An exercise on mindfulness and multitasking made me realise that by trying to do too much all the time I was actually achieving less than if I just concentrated on one thing at a time. I’m definitely more mindful of this now and feel it’s really benefited how I work.

Heath: Yes, particularly the partnerships and sharing of knowledge with the other participants.

Hannah: The Myers-Briggs profile has really assisted me in how I engage and work with my direct team, but more broadly across the organisation.

HOW VALUABLE HAVE THE NEW NETWORKS YOU HAVE MADE THROUGH THE PROGRAM BEEN?

Charmaine: I can’t stress enough how valuable the relationships and networks are that we gain through this program. I’d never have had the opportunity to speak to the range of people I’ve been able to connect to through this program and I’m very grateful for all those relationships and opportunities.

Hannah Rowlands

Heath: Extremely, because unlike other specific training, the group is a cross section of all functions in Local Government.

Hannah: They have been extremely valuable in terms of information sharing and building contacts.

WHY WOULD YOU ADVISE SOMEONE TO NOMINATE IN 2020?

Charmaine: You’ll definitely learn something through this program, you’ll develop long lasting relationships, focus on how to develop your career and have some fun along the way.

Heath: Make the commitment in your personal development because you won’t be disappointed. This is unlike any other training you’ll do and the networks and learning are so beneficial.

Hannah: There are so many benefits to being part of the ELP. It’s a fantastic program not only in terms of leadership development but also for the networks you build.

Charmaine Calis and Heath Gillett

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THESE AWARDS ARE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN OUR SECTOR We are accepting nominations until Monday 21 October in our 2020 Awards for Excellence which recognise and celebrate the outstanding work being done by individuals and teams in our sector.

The awards are offered in the following 10 categories:

• Innovative Management Initiative • Service Delivery Initiative

• Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative (over $2 million)

• Specials Projects Initiative

• Sustainability Initiative

• Community Partnerships Initiative

• Organisational Diversity

• Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative ($2 million and under)

• Young Achiever • Indigenous Community Partnership Initiative

The nomination process is online to streamline it and make it

Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2020 LGPro

easier for people to start their nomination, save it and go back

Annual Conference Dinner on Thursday, 20 February at the

and complete it or check it at a later date before submitting it

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

for consideration.

Click here for more information and to register.

WEBINAR SERIES HITS THE MARK We are thrilled with the response from the sector to our new Webinar Series which started in July.

Solid numbers have logged on for our first three webinars which focused on Mental Health in the Workplace in Local Government; Workplace Bullying; and how Maroondah Council is dealing with hoarding

Thursday, 26 September Using data to understand housing trends

Glen Eira Council staff will lead our next webinar on Monday

Thursday 24 October

9 September from 12.30pm-1.30pm outlining their successful

Having the conversation around change management

Imagination@work project which has won state and national acclaim through Local Government awards.

They will share their drivers, process, achievements and lessons learnt through Imagination@work, a project which

Monday 11 November Digitisation in Local Government using Council case studies

supported staff to collaboratively and openly share their ideas and opinions on how to achieve a high performing workforce that is values-based, empowered and strives for innovation.

The following webinars are planned for the rest of the year: Click here to learn more.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

Monday 25 November Maribyrnong Council shares its successful application process for food premises

Monday 9 December Effective communication in the workplace

MAKING THE MOST OF HER OPPORTUNITIES Phoebe Hanna from Glen Eira Council is a relatively new LGPro Member after being gifted a half price Young Professional membership by John Vastianos, Chief Financial Officer at Glen Eira.

But already she is taking full advantage of the benefits

Phoebe is sure being an LGPro Member will assist her career

of her membership attending the Women’s Professional

progression. “Firstly, the opportunity LGPro provides to

Development Forum and Women’s Network Dinner at

connect, collaborate, and learn from other professionals,

member rates and joining a number our of Special Interest

both in my field and the sector more broadly, is extremely

Groups so she can connect with others working in the sector.

valuable to anyone working in the public sector,” she said.

Phoebe says she left the recent LGPro women’s events feeling

“Secondly, as leadership is a strong interest of mine, I am

incredibly inspired after hearing from such a high calibre of

looking forward to participating in LGPro programs such

speakers and meeting women doing really influential work

as the Management Challenge (I hope to be part of Glen

in the public sector.

Eira’s team next year), as well as the Mentoring Program

As an added bonus she was one of the lucky LGPro members

and Emerging Leaders Program at some point in the future.”

who won a one hour session with a female CEO in the sector,

Phoebe’s favourite part about working in Local Government

something she is really looking forward to taking advantage of

is the ability to really make a difference and improve the lives

and she can’t wait to “pick their brains”.

of the community she serves. “I am grateful to be beginning

Phoebe has worked at Glen Eira for eight years starting as a founding member of the customer service team at Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre. She spent nearly five years as part of the customer service and membership teams at the Centre and said it was fantastic to be part of, and experience the

my career in such an incredibly exciting time of widespread change and innovation within the public sector. I love the diverse, dynamic nature of Local Government, and believe it is unique in that there is so much scope to develop and explore your interests within the one organisation.”

growth of the centre from day one to it becoming one of

Ultimately, she wants to give back to a sector that has already

the premier sports and aquatic centres in Australia.

given her so much and to use her career to contribute to the

When Phoebe started studying a Bachelor of Environment,

creation of more liveable, vibrant and resilient communities.

majoring in Urban Planning and Design at the University of Melbourne, she was fortunate to secure a position of Student Planner in Council’s Urban Planning Department. After three months she was offered a Planning Support Officer role where she stayed for 12 months before moving to her current position as an Urban Planner ,which she has enjoyed for almost two years.

“I am incredibly grateful to be part of a fantastic team, and to have Managers who are really supportive while I finish my undergraduate degree (I am due to graduate mid next year). I feel very lucky to say I love coming to work each day,” she said.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

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2019 RURAL WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS Carlene Lamanna, Manager Community Development at Indigo Shire Council was one of 11 women working in small rural Councils across the state to receive a Rural Women’s Scholarship to attend our Women’s Professional Development Forum and Women’s Network Dinner in July.

The scholarship not only covered the cost of their attendance at the two events, but also assisted towards their transport and accommodation costs.

2019 RURAL WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS • Tammy Smith, Yarriambiack/West Wimmera Shire Council

Carlene was thrilled to receive the scholarship to attend these fantastic professional development opportunities. She enjoyed hearing from the broad range of speakers and learning new

• Narelle O’Donoghue, Gannawarra Shire Council • Jane Bowker, Pyrenees Shire Council

approaches to tackling a range of issues.

• Angela Cesarec, Mansfield Shire Council

Networking with others was another benefit. ”It was great

• Carlene Lamanna, Indigo Shire Council

to hear state-wide approaches to similar work challenges,

• Rebecca Stockfeld, Central Goldfields Shire Council

i.e ensuring access to services across a large geographic area,” she said.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to think beyond the Shire’s boundaries and speak to other professional women with similar portfolios regarding community challenges and innovative solutions they had implemented."

Carlene said she learnt new strategies to get more out of her day, planning weeks to be less reactive, prioritising down time

• Vivienne Green, Hepburn Shire Council • Paula Yorston, Loddon Shire Council • Amber Ricks, Buloke Shire Council • Carly Douglas, Borough of Queenscliffe • Carole Hammond, Strathbogie Shire Council.

Click here to see an interview with Carlene following the Forum.

in the day and continuing to promote a positive team culture through laughter and enjoying each other’s company and professional expertise.

She thanked the scholarship sponsors for providing this terrific opportunity for regional women to network and learn from others. As an added bonus to attending the Women’s Forum, Carlene was one of the lucky winners of a one hour mentoring session with the female CEO that was a new offering at the event.

We thank the following LGPro Corporate Partners and Councils for sponsoring the 2019 Rural Women’s Scholarships.

Corporate Partners

Councils proudly sponsored by

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

NEW SIG MEMBERSHIP We continue to update and change our membership offerings to suit people working at all levels in Councils across the state.

While we are proud of the growth, success and offerings

Our SIG Members won’t have to worry about getting to

through our Special Interest Group (SIG) Network, as a

a SIG meeting in person as we now live stream many of our

not-for-profit membership association we can no longer

SIG meetings so people who can’t get there can still join in

carry the operational costs to maintain the SIG network.

and benefit from the meeting. We also provide a platform

So, from the end of this year we are introducing an annual SIG Membership of $55 incl. GST which means you will need to be a SIG Member to attend or access SIG meetings.

The membership will allow you to attend and access as

through our SIG Online Communities Resource Library where people from the network can reference and listen back to streamed recordings in their own time, because we also understand that everyone has a busy calendar.

many SIG meetings as you like and existing LGPro Individual

For further information contact our Membership

Members will continue to have access to our SIG Network.

Manager, Michelle Cox on 9268 6403 or email michellec@lgpro.com

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNCIL SUBSCRIPTION AND INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP Many people working in the sector are confused about the difference between Council Subscription and Individual Membership with LGPro. If your Council is an LGPro Council Subscriber it does

Click here for more information on Council Subscription

not automatically make someone working for that Council

and the benefits and here for more information on

a Member who can attend our events at Member rates.

Individual Members and its benefits. You can also

In fact, Council Subscription and Individual Membership

speak with our Membership Manager, Michelle Cox

is quite separate and each has different benefits.

on 9268 6403 or email michellec@lgpro.com

Council Subscription assists us to undertake work that benefits the sector as a whole such as advocacy, representing the officer perspective to other levels of government, and building sector capacity and capability.

Individual Membership is for staff working in Local Government and offers discounts on a range of events and professional development programs, activities and resources. People working in Councils cannot use their Council’s Subscription to access member discounts to programs, events and conferences.

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2019 AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

WINNERS & FINALISTS COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE – OVER $2 MILLION

WINNER

Mildura Rural City Council, Mildura Riverfront Stage 1 Development

The Mildura Riverfront Precinct is a key strip of land between the Mildura Central Business District (CBD) and Australia’s mightiest and longest river, the Murray.

Following more than a decade of planning, feasibility and business case developments, with extensive community consultation, Mildura Rural City Council established a broad vision for both public and private redevelopment, into distinct precincts, defined under three interconnected themes – river life, environmental management and the industrial and social landscape.

These themes are activated through a series of interconnecting projects linking the CBD to the riverfront, through development of specific cultural, commercial, retail, residential, transport, tourism and parkland components.

Located in the north-west corner of the state, Mildura is a key regional city for Victoria, with traditionally strong historic links with the agricultural sector. However, the region has been subject to a range of emerging issues affecting the regional economy and the social fabric of the community.

The CBD had few activities for locals and tourists to visit or meet, exacerbated by the trend of retail investment moving to outer suburban areas, poor existing linkages to the disconnected riverfront precinct (caused by a railway line running between the two, which inhibited further commercial development), together with few people living in, or near the CBD. This project developed innovative approaches and strong partnerships that aligned Local, State and Federal Government policies and priorities to adopt a creative model, enabling design flexibility that truly rewrote the rules on activation.

The establishment of an Aboriginal Reference Group to work on integrating important indigenous components throughout the design was a unique initiative that drove the authentic nature of the project. This included a welcome to country feature, wayfinding markers symbolising 28

PROFILE SPRING 2019

boundary trees, scar tree sculpture and a replicated fish traps design for the children’s waterplay area.

The first stage development has contributed to increasing tourism visitation, spend and length of stay in the region by providing substantial improvements to and creation of, new public use open space areas.

The project has improved social inclusion and engagement and influenced community health and wellbeing through provision of new community facilities, activated through a series of interconnecting links from the Mildura CBD to the Riverfront Precinct, featuring specific cultural, commercial, retail, residential, transport, tourism, and parkland components.

It has created jobs and is the catalyst to unlock further private sector investment to enhance Mildura’s future economic sustainability.

The $19.2 million stage 1 of the $222 million project formally opened in November 2017 and has been overwhelmingly embraced by the community, with significant increases in activation of events, recreational activities and public usage.

HIGH COMMENDATION Bunjil Place is the City of Casey’s vibrant new entertainment and community precinct.

It brings together a diverse mix of facilities including an outdoor community plaza, theatre, studio, function centre, library, gallery, a Council Customer Service Centre and office space, community meeting rooms and café, all in one location.

Bunjil Place extends beyond the building, from the glass façade of the impressive foyer, across the landscape to the memorial grove, children’s playground, Casey Aquatic Recreation Centre and surrounds. It also provides a variety of exciting entertainment options and activities, enabling visitors to create their own experience and engage in arts, culture and community events.

On 28 October 2017, just over four years after it was announced, Bunjil Place opened and more than 35,000 visitors streamed through the door the first weekend, far exceeding Council’s estimate of 20,000.

Bunjil Place provides quality facilities that did not previously exist in the region. It is a safe, accessible and contemporary environment for formal and informal community interactions and active and passive pursuits which generates positive social and economic impacts.

Since opening, Bunjil Place has welcomed approximately 1.3 million visitors through its doors.

It has become a premier destination drawing people to the City and is well positioned to boost Casey’s investment attraction profile and economy.

FINALISTS Hobsons Bay City Council, Activating the Western Section of Altona Beach This project has activated a section of the foreshore west of the Altona pier with the construction of a new beach, playground, public toilet and access ramps.

The $2.7 million project was technically complex, requiring political, organisational and technical leadership. It employed innovative design principles and materials that future proof it against rising sea levels out to 2070.

The outcome was a significant improvement in recreational opportunities and general amenity of the area and a useful template for future bayside projects. The design principles incorporating long-term foreshore planning are transferrable to other projects at bayside and coastal municipalities around Australia.

Melton City Council, Pride of Melton This was a $13.1 million project to revitalise and transform the Melton Town Centre into a vibrant, attractive, pedestrian accessible and safe precinct.

The project has strengthened the town centre by making clear pathways to encourage people movement, creating spaces that enable both passive and organised uses, and facilitating opportunities for local businesses to engage in streetscape trade.

The outcome is a first class, people focused space that attracts all ages and abilities, encourages the stimulation of local businesses, and enhances community pride.

The revitalised precinct provides much improved pedestrian and bicycle access, retail and service opportunities, spaces for events, play, relaxation, socialisation, performances, outdoor dining and a safer precinct for all.

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2019 AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

WINNERS & FINALISTS COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE - $2 MILLION & UNDER

WINNER

Maribyrnong City Council, Braybrook Park Playspace

The Braybrook Park playground in the City of Maribyrnong is a vibrant regional playspace which was rebuilt to replace Braybook’s much-loved Aeroplane Park which tragically burnt to the ground following an arson attack in December 2015.

The new playspace retains the themes of flight, travel and journey to create a rich multi sensory and physically challenging playspace for all ages. It had to overcome negative perceptions of safety to create a robust and vandal resistant playground that was also inviting and joyful. The result is a safe and inclusive gathering space heavily used by this highly diverse community.

The project is the result of extensive engagement with the local community and many park users to understand their needs.

The destruction of the original playground was a blow to the community, but the reconstruction also provided the opportunity to build a playspace which is substantially safer and more vandal resistant than the original.

The new playspace is a much more open and inviting space which has resulted in an exceptionally high level of use by many in the community. It draws on the theme of flight to provide an exciting multi sensory space.

The special custom designed play elements include a four metre high aeroplane fuselage incorporating climbing nets and ropes and 30 metre long wings containing banks for swings. The aeroplane sits on a runway, giving strong context to the site, and is anchored by an air traffic control tower overlooking the space with high slides.

References to elements of travel, journey and movement were achieved through integrated public art elements such as the folded steel paper aeroplanes which spin in the wind.

Movement through the space incorporates music, maths, multiple languages and court layouts to foster active play.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

The design reflects the diverse Braybrook community by carefully layering educational and cross cultural elements. Multilingual script across the site provides an indication of the community’s rich cultural mix, while the artwork elements incorporate graphics to overcome language barriers.

Complementing the playspace are extensive sheltered picnic facilities providing for large family and community gatherings. These social spaces recognise and cater for the diverse family groups which make up the Braybrook community and encourage them to use the park.

The park is heavily used by many families and children on all days with Braybrook Hub staff reporting a dramatic increase in activity compared to the original playground.

This was a highly collaborative project, involving many teams within Council, the Braybrook Community Hub and its service partners, Footscray Police and the Victorian Government through a $205,000 grant from the Community Safety Infrastructure Fund.

The intensive consultation with the community has led to a playspace that is well loved and used by locals and visitors. The carefully designed space inspires park users to learn, explore and play through physical challenges and sensory experiences.

HIGH COMMENDATION Ganawarra Shire Council, Kerang CBD upgrade This exciting project involved using innovative urban design to revitalise the Central Business District (CBD) of the small rural community of Kerang.

The construction works not only aimed to enhance the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the Kerang CBD, but to support local businesses and increase the competitiveness of the town as a location for investment and activity.

The creation and maintenance of an attractive, legible and coherent public realm aimed to help redefine perceptions of the town, while encouraging complementary private sector investment in the presentation of town centre businesses.

The resulting upgrade has enhanced the appearance and functionality of the CBD, thereby supporting local businesses and fulfilling the aim to attract new investment to the area.

FINALISTS Ballarat City Council, City Oval Redevelopment This included a major reconstruction of the sports field and upgrade of the field lighting to AFL semi professional standard. The primary objective was to significantly increase the carrying capacity and functionality of the sports field for year round activities due to the increasing level of AFL participation in Ballarat.

Other objectives of the project were to remove the fire track and turf cricket wicket from the reserve to enable the facility to function as a more flexible events space for the municipality during the summer tenancy period (October-March) given its appealing aesthetics, central location (close to the CBD) and connections to public transport.

Maroondah City Council, Ringwood Lake Park Playspace This playspace attracts hundreds of visitors daily, making it the most utilised park in Maroondah. In 2015, it was identified that the playspace needed to be redeveloped, with a focus on accessibility.

To ensure the community would embrace the new playspace they were engaged extensively throughout the design. This result is a state of the art playspace that includes rope courses, balance platforms, natural sand and water areas, creative play for all abilities and animal sculptures to fuel children’s imagination. Accessibility features include a wheelchair accessible carousel, wheelchair access into the tree canopy and a Liberty Swing.

Melton City Council, Bridge Road Regional Play Space This project has delivered an inclusive, all ages and abilities playspace that integrates with the surrounding natural context while capturing views to the You Yangs.

It was designed with input from children of all ages, their parents and guardians. It includes a range of equipment that children, regardless of ability, can play on together, accessible picnic tables and barbecues, as well as shelters and toilets. The playspace is significant in its size, type and infrastructure, but mostly in providing opportunities for children, of all ages to play together with a focus on inclusiveness. No other play grounds of this type and scale exist within the municipality, and as a result it has been a big drawcard for local families and those from the broader area.

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LEADING WITH CONFIDENCE Since completing LGPro’s Mastering Management Program last year Jane Brodie, Coordinator Strategic, Design and Sustainability Planning at Great Dandenong City Council has a new level of self-confidence and personal awareness of her management style.

Jane says techniques she learnt through the program

“It was also an opportunity to learn more about resilience,

have helped her to become more resilient and to lead

de-mystifying ‘management’ in my mind and to gain insight

with confidence.

about what drives and motivates me in my role, as well as

“The insights from the program and fellow Local Government sector participants really reinforced what

barrier to stepping up into management.“

a highly challenging, political, complex, dynamic and

Through the program Jane has also been able to extend

demanding work environment we all work in,” she said.

her professional networks across the sector in both

“Hence, the program has encouraged me to be empowered and importantly authentic to achieve the best outcomes from my team. It has also has given me much greater insight into the management challenges faced by the Executive Team at an organisational level.

“Since completing the program, I have taken this collective learning and applied it to the leadership of the team, my conversations with the Executive Management team and when I have been Acting Manager of the Planning and Design Department."

at a really important time in her career. As the Coordinator of a high performing Strategic, Design and Sustainability team she provides leadership, mentoring and manages team members and consultants, and provides direction on the Planning and Design team’s projects.

“Over the last five years I have acted as the Manager of Planning and Design on numerous occasions, which has been highly rewarding and challenging and within the organisation I am a member of the Service and Assets Steering Committee, present to the Executive Management Team and Councillors, as well as manage projects that require a high level of collaboration across the business units,” she said.

“Participating in the Mastering Management Program helped to broaden my skillset and knowledge of leadership styles, management theory, team dynamics, productivity and accountability and how to build capability and innovation in the workplace.

LGP LGP MASTERING MASTERING MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT

PROFILE SPRING 2019

metropolitan and rural Councils. “The cross section of experience provides an insight across governance, finance, planning, community planning, infrastructure planning and media and communications, to name a few. Whilst all of these areas are diverse, it was often the case that the shared experiences were similar,” she said.

Since completing Mastering Management Jane has continued to embrace opportunities to step up into management roles.

However, more broadly, she has become more confident and comfortable in herself as a leader and how she works within the organisation, as well as with external partners.

Jane says the Mastering Management Program came

32

being vulnerable to what challenged me or was a perceived

“The combination of really learning more about your personal style, management tools and theoretical frameworks strengthens your resilience to embrace the challenges of working in a very dynamic and demanding Local Government environment,” she said.

We will be offering the Mastering Management Program again in 2020. Click here to learn more.

THE XLP CLASS OF 2019 Participants in our 2019 Executive Leadership Program (XLP) came together on Thursday 15 August to celebrate their graduation from the program.

A total of 25 executives working in Councils across the state

Nominations for the 2020 XLP open on Wednesday 9 October

enjoyed the 2019 program which is designed to expand and

and close on Friday 15 November. Competition is always

develop the skills and knowledge of CEOs, Directors and those

strong for the places offered in the program which runs from

who aspire to be CEOs working in our sector to assist them

February to August.

to become confident and capable leaders.

Click here to learn more.

NEW XLP SPONSOR FOR 2020 Graduates of the 2019 XLP.

INTERVIEW WITH TWO LOCAL GOVERNMENT STALWARTS Two Local Government stalwarts, Noelene Duff, CEO of Whitehorse City Council and David Preiss, CEO of LGPro left the sector in August.

Before they departed we had a bit of fun filming an interview with the pair based on the format of the popular ABC TV show, You Can’t Ask That.

Click this link http://www.lgpro.com/LGPro/ Membership/Membership_videos.aspx to watch the interview.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

33

UPDATES FROM OUR NEW SIGS The LGPro Special Interest Group (SIG) community is continually evolving to meet the needs of the sector. We now have more than 3,000 people working in Local Government connecting through our 35 Special Interest Groups.

Three new SIGs have formed and had their first meetings recently. We touched based with the Convenors of the Occupational Health and Safety, Transformation and Social Infrastructure Planning SIGs to see how they are travelling.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY A total of 31 people working in the areas of Risk and Health and Safety attended the first meeting which focused on the format and time frames of future meetings and whether WorkSafe should attend to discuss their activities and emerging issues.

Convenor, Marie Smith from Whitehorse Council said the meeting was well received with those attending identifying the importance of having a regular forum to openly discuss the challenges being faced, but also to share successes.

has been strong with many Councils keen to get involved in future meetings.

The next meeting will be held on Thursday September 19 at Casey City Council. Click here to get involved in this SIG.

SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING About 60 people attended the first meeting of this SIG which focused on planning for community facilities in 20-minute neighbourhoods. SIG Convenor, Frances Hoban from Moonee Valley City Council said there was positive feedback following the meeting.

this year and into 2020. Click here to get involved in this SIG.

Moving forward, the group plans to meet quarterly with a guest presenter at each meeting who will share their social infrastructure planning knowledge and expertise with members. Over time, the group will develop an advocacy plan with its members to address priority issues and raise the profile of our profession. It is also looking for Councils to volunteer as meeting hosts.

TRANSFORMATION

Click here to get involved in this SIG.

The SIG’s next meeting is scheduled for mid-October with a wide range of topics open for discussion for the remainder of

Catrina Rowe from Boroondara Council is one of four Convenors of this SIG designed for Councils to share their transformation journeys. A total of 56 people attended the first meeting in June where Boroondara, Glen Eira and Ballarat Councils shared information on their transformation projects.

The group set their vision at this meeting which is to enable the sector to be at the forefront of transformation and to inspire Councils to adopt leading practices and to deliver meaningful community outcomes. Feedback on the SIG

2019 LGPRO CORPORATE PARTNERS NETWORKING EVENT

Members of the Transformation SIG at their first meeting.

Thursday, 10 October 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 2019/20 financial Corporate Partners.

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

ON CTI NE ON EC TH KE MA

• Expert keynote speakers • Opportunities to network with people across the sector • Specialised half day workbased sessions offering practical tools and advice • Inspirational Short Talks • 2019 Emerging Leaders presentation • Annual Conference Dinner featuring presentation of 2020 Awards for Excellence PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSOR

WE TH DN UR ESD S ME DAY 2 AY 19 & E LBO 0 F FEB XH UR EBR RU IBI NE UA AR TIO CO RY Y A ND N C NV EN ENT TRE IO N

N CO NU LGP NFE AL RO REN CE

S A TH VE ED A 2 T 0 E A 20

Y– EAD ER UR UT E: F EM TH HIGHLIGHTS

PROGRAM TO BE RELEASED IN NOVEMBER

IGNITE FOR OUTDOOR WORKERS SPREADS ITS REACH Our Ignite for Outdoor Workers program has spread its reach with staff working for the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) now participating.

One GMCT staff member, Ron Megna, graduated from

“Given our outdoor workforce is structured around supervisors

series one of the program earlier in the year and now three

managing teams of staff, this course was particularly relevant.

additional staff, Carmelo Falzone, Terry Simmons and Jay

It has provided an opportunity for these staff members to gain

Onciarich, are participating in the current series.

insight into the role of a supervisor within our organisational

GMCT manages 21 cemeteries and memorial parks across a number of Local Government areas, and many of these were previously operated by Councils. In terms of size, scope

environment, and develop skills required to be successful in the role. It has been a great fit for emerging leaders in GMCT’s outdoor workforce.”

and remit, there are many parallels between GMCT and

Click here to learn more about the Ignite for Outdoor

Council operations particularly in terms of outdoor roles,

Workers program.

including maintenance, operations, horticulture and OHS. GMCT’s Chief People Officer, Dimi Patitsas heard about the Ignite for Outdoors Worker program and thought it would be appropriate to roll it out to their outdoor staff who had expressed an interest in transitioning to a supervisory role as their first exposure to leadership development.

Dimi said their staff had provided excellent feedback and had particularly enjoyed the opportunity to bounce ideas off the group, share experiences, and incorporate learnings into their daily activities at GMCT. “The three current participants are enjoying using the concepts they have learned so far to observe and adapt to common behaviours in the workplace and apply their knowledge to real workplace situations,” she said.

Carmelo Falzone (left) and Terry Simmons at the last Ignite for Outdoor Workers session.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

35

WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS We would like to welcome the following new members who joined LGPro between 21 May and 21 August 2019. We look forward to working with you to shape our wonderful sector.

Karren Abberfield, Economic Development Officer, Moira Shire Council

Bryan Carroll, Buller Gas Officer, Indigo Shire Council

Chris Dixon, Manager Transformation, Knox City Council

Steve Asirvadem, Business Improvement Officer, Casey City Council

Emily Chapman, Corporate Services Administration Officer, Golden Plains Shire Council

Imelda Dover, Coordinator Tourism, Latrobe City Council

Chrissy Athanasopoulos, Innovation and Continuous Improvement Officer, Glen Eira City Council Will Babington, Manager Strategy and Business Intelligence, Casey City Council Jodi Barry, Project Officer, Hobsons Bay City Council Ashley Beames, Functions & Conventions Officer, Rural City of Wangaratta Shane Beary, Data Integrity Officer, Casey City Council Glenda Beecher, Manager, People and Governance, Rural City of Wangaratta Harley Berry, IT Support Officer, Rural City of Wangaratta Peter Betts, Team Leader – People & Culture, Golden Plains Shire Council Susanne Blomeley, Asset Data Officer, Moorabool Shire Council Justin Bloomfield, Rural City of Wangaratta Jennifer Brophy, Business Support – Innovation & Organisational Improvement, Ballarat City Council Michelle Burgess, Remuneration Coordinator, Warrnambool City Council

36

PROFILE SPRING 2019

Alexandra Chisholm, Property Management Coordinator, Baw Baw Shire Council Katie Cleary, Waste Management Officer, Manningham City Council Martin Collins, General Manager Community Wellbeing, Central Goldfields Shire Council Lauren Coman, Manager Regulatory Services, Horsham Rural City Council Cloe Curtis, Assistant Accountant, South Gippsland Shire Council Jaiden D'Angelo, Riverlinks Marketing Officer, Greater Shepparton City Council Bryony Davies, Health Administration/ Program Support Officer, Knox City Council Shannon Davis, Baw Baw Shire Council Briony Davis, Property Administration Officer, Hobsons Bay City Council Therese D'Helin, Social Support Coordination Officer, Golden Plains Shire Council Maria Diaz, Business Support Officer (Civic Support), Ballarat City Council

Tess Dowthwaite, Coordinator Finance, Bass Coast Shire Council Jacqui Doyle, Aged & Disability Services Coordinator, Golden Plains Shire Council Brigid Dullard, Youth Engagement Officer, Campaspe Shire Council Alistair Dunlop, Acting Senior Urban Planner, Glen Eira City Council Paul Dwyer, Service Improvement Team Leader, Yarra City Council Cathy Ferencz, Executive Manager, Library Services & Customer Experience, Geelong Regional Libraries Brendan Gherardi, Junior Data Integrity Officer, Casey City Council Ashleigh Giffney, Collections Manager, Indigo Shire Council Jane Good, Rural City of Wangaratta Marion Greig, Manager Improvement and Innovation, Casey City Council Madeleine Grimes, Acting Senior Strategic Planner, Glen Eira City Council Marichle Gulli, Compliance Trainer, Greater Geelong City Council

Dimity Gunn, Moreland City Council Amy Hall, Revenue Assistant, Mansfield Shire Council David Hammersley, Procurement & Finance Officer, Banyule City Council Tanarly Hood, Youth Officer, Baw Baw Shire Council Kubra Hussaini, L&C Trainee, Greater Geelong City Council Stuart Ireland, Senior Active & Healthy Ageing Strategic Officer, Knox City Council Amy Jones-Ellis, Latrobe City Council James Kearney, Special Projects Manager, Glen Eira City Council Andrew Kinsey, Buildings and Property Officer, Indigo Shire Council Annette Kleinert, Business Systems Analyst, South Gippsland Shire Council Emil Klesman, Manager – Customer and Cultural Services, Bayside City Council Andrew Klop, Greater Dandenong City Council Megan Kruger, Manager Governance Property & Risk, Central Goldfields Shire Council Carlene Lamanna, Indigo Shire Council

Krystle-Lee Leist, Executive Assistant, Central Goldfields Shire Council Faina Levin, Administrative Officer, Bayside City Council Sarina Lissenburg, Bass Coast Shire Council Andrew Lovett, PMO Project Manager, Rural City of Wangaratta Emma Lowe, Banyule City Council Linda Madera, Senior Coordinator Customer Service, Moonee Valley City Council Alison Martin, Communications Coordinator, Colac Otway Shire Council

Sheena Murdoch, Executive Assistant, Geelong Regional Library Corporation Vivienne Murphy, Business Support Officer (CEO), Ballarat City Council Wayne Murphy, HACC Assessment Officer, Golden Plains Shire Council Angela Newnham, Environmental Health Officer, Latrobe City Council Kaley Nicholson, Aboriginal Workforce Engagement Consultant, Greater Geelong City Council Bernadette Northeast, Volunteer Connect Coordinator, Warrnambool City Council

Mick Mattingly, Greater Shepparton City Council

Mimi Nuciforo, Urban Planner, Glen Eira City Council

James Maw, Manager Statutory Services, Central Goldfields Shire Council

Clare O'Connor, Coordinator Civic Support, Ballarat City Council

Wendy McCorriston, HACC Assessment Officer, Latrobe City Council

Jessica Orr, Team Member Customer Service and Youth, Moira Shire Council

Cara McIntosh, Property Officer, Baw Baw Shire Council

Alison Orwin, Senior Urban Planner, Glen Eira City Council

Juana McKeachie, Team Leader Administration Community Assets, Strathbogie Shire Council

Pip O'Sullivan, Director Corporate Services, Golden Plains Shire Council

Chloe McKenzie, Health and Wellbeing Officer, Golden Plains Shire Council

Kate O'Toole, Ageing Well Officer, Indigo Shire Council

Madelaine McNiece, HR Trainee, Greater Geelong City Council

Connor Parker, Coordinator, Community Engagement & Communications, Borough of Queenscliffe

Melissa Mitchell, Corporate Planning & Performance Support Officer, Kingston City Council

Loretta Pepper, Early Childhood Services Community Liaison Officer, Banyule City Council

Fiona Rae, Finance Manager, Golden Plains Shire Council Nikki Ralston, Arts & Cultural Development Officer, Banyule City Council Bri Reid, Bass Coast Shire Council Guy Robertson, ICT Coordinator, Rural City of Wangaratta Uzma Rubab, Economic Development Administration Officer, Banyule City Council Renee Russell, Senior Support Officer, Casey City Council Melissa Scott, Executive Assistant, Gannawarra Shire Council Trudy Simpson, Events Coordinator – Storytelling Festival, Glen Eira City Council Mandy Snell, Community Services Administration Assistant, Mansfield Shire Council James Steinfort, Enviro Sustainability Officer, Moira Shire Council

Deanne Verity, Manager Children's & Youth Services, Geelong Regional Libraries Jo Vuk, Admin Support Officer, Moira Shire Council Jennifer Wang, IT Project Analyst, Glen Eira City Council Ethan Ward, Economic Development Officer, Moorabool Shire Council Sophie Watt, Executive Assistant, Greater Shepparton City Council Amanda Western, Executive Manager Project Management Office, Ballarat City Council Leanne Whiteman, Support Officer, People and Governance, Rural City of Wangaratta Chris D. Whyte, ICT Manager, Hepburn Shire Council Kerry Wilkinson, Manager Engineering and Projects, Macedon Ranges Shire Council

Rebecca Sturgeon, Latrobe City Council

Troy Winn, Risk and OHS Coordinator, Banyule City Council

James Thyer, Head of People and Culture, Whitehorse City Council

Sarah Young, Manager Communications, Yarra City Council

Carly Tulloch, Latrobe City Council

Samatar Yusuf, Banyule City Council

Mary Turner, Latrobe City Council

Nicole Zurcas, Greater Shepparton City Council

Joel Turner, Manager of Asset Operations, Yarriambiack Shire Council

*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 2019

37

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT MAROONDAH’S BIZHUB PART OF A REVOLUTIONARY GLOBAL MOVEMENT

ONLINE WORKSHOPS TACKLING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Maroondah Council’s Bizhub Coworking Space has become a dynamic, cost-effective option for local entrepreneurs, start-ups and microbusinesses seeking an innovative way to do business.

Located within Realm, Maroondah’s $24 million state-of-the-art library, cultural and innovation facility, the Coworking space provides businesses with the platform to transition into commercial premises, fostering opportunities for employment creation for the municipality and broader eastern region.

Since its launch in October 2015, the Coworking space model has experienced a 245% average annual growth in turnover. The integrated model, which has redefined the way the Council engages with businesses, has also been embraced by the regional business community with over 1,650 visits annually to BizHub. To support the member base, Council has launched a new initiative, with a BizHub Coworker Advisor appointed to support businesses with opportunities and challenges.

The advisor, an experienced business management consultant, spends around 20 hours a week in Bizhub and is available, often at short notice, to help with any business issue or opportunity members wish to discuss.

The offering includes an initial free business health check for current Coworking members and access to advice beyond the initial health check at subsidised rates. To find more visit www.bizhubmaroondah.com.au

Emma Van Smale (left) with the Glenelg Mayor Cr Anita Rank at the launch of the workshops.

Digital Glenelg, Glenelg Shire Council’s new digital team developed an interactive series of free online workshops called Modern Small Business for the State Government’s Digital Innovation Festival (DIF) festival from August 23 to September 6.

They partnered with Melbournebased start-up and small business specialists, Marketing Entourage, and received funding from DIF for the workshop series.

content for these live online sessions,” she said.

“We have engaged subject matter experts to deliver interactive, easy to understand sessions, targeted specifically to the challenges identified in the survey responses. These workshops will be streamed live and can be accessed anywhere, at any time from any device. There will also be some local case studies showing their successes with digital, providing

Smale, who is the Digital Glenelg

their personal tips and tricks.”

workshops was for businesses to walk away armed with skills to tackle digital challenges in their operations, from developing marketing strategies to confidently using new digital platforms.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

and their responses have informed

Workshop coordinator Emma Van project lead, said the aim of the online

38

business challenges in adopting digital

Emma said the online workshop series was a first for the region, with participants given the ability to join-in live, or to revisit and work through at their own pace. They hope to inspire a local ongoing digital

“Shire-based business operators have

working group and regular business

been surveyed to understand their key

networking sessions.

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YARRA TACKLES THE RECYCLING CRISIS WITH A REVOLUTION With Australia’s recycling industry in crisis, after just two months Yarra City Council’s new waste revolution is already making a big difference.

“By collecting food waste separately

In early June this year, Yarra began a

that will be used on Victorian farms

it is diverted from landfill. It will be processed to reduce landfill emissions and turned it into nutritious compost

trial with 1,300 Abbotsford households

and Council gardens.”

where residents were asked to

Council supplied the residents with

separate their food and green waste

two new bins: a plastic crate for glass

from their landfill waste, and separate

and a food and green waste bin. This

their glass from their other recycling.

simple, but revolutionary change,

In the first nine weeks of the trial,

has enabled the Council to not only

Yarra collected:

support Australia’s recycling industry,

• 28.46 tonnes of food

climate change and landfill usage.

and organic waste • 19.40 tonnes of recycling

NATASHA PUSHES TO DIVERSIFY GREATER SHEPPARTON’S WORKFORCE

but also tackle the hot issues of

The Council is calling these changes to how residents are being asked to

• 11.26 tonnes of glass.

sort their waste, and the ways the

All of the material collected is

waste is being collected as the Yarra

Natasha Peterson, the Aboriginal Employment Officer at Greater Shepparton City Council, recently oversaw a major milestone for the organisation by doubling the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

being processed in Australia, in

Waste Revolution.

employed at Council from one to two per cent.

this Victorian-first service.

Following this trial the Council will

Working as part of the People and Development

Chris Leivers, Director City Works

consider expanding the service

and Assets at Yarra, said the changes are focused on creating a local circular economy.

“We’re only collecting specific items we know are valuable to the Australian recycling industry, ensuring that they’ll find a new life as a new product and not end up in landfill or overseas."

“By collecting glass separately, it won’t contaminate general recycling and maintains the quality of the other material. Any glass which

throughout the municipality in 2020.

team, Natasha’s day-to-day duties include providing mentoring support to existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, undertaking community consultation to identify and support employment initiatives, actively sourcing funding opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment initiatives and working with stakeholders to create work experience, traineeships, apprenticeships and graduate opportunities to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander career development.

In August 2016, the Council signed the Algabonyah Agreement, which aimed to increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people employed in the Council workforce to at least two per cent by 2020. At the time, Council had one per cent employment status.

can’t be recycled back

As a proud Torres Strait Islander woman herself

into bottles will be used

and through her strong connections with the local

in new road resurfacing

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community

works in Yarra," he said.

and a sharp eye for opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the region, Natasha has taken the lead role in guiding Council towards the two percent mark achieved in 2019.

She is now driven to see the figure continue to rise to three, four and five per cent in the future.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

39

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT STREET ART STIRS A POT OF EXCITEMENT IN FRANKSTON From a Blue Jay landing on a giant skeleton to a young plaited girl blowing bubbles, crowds are flocking to snap a selfie of Frankston’s street art scene.

In the lead up to Big Picture Fest 2019, nine new walls in and around the Frankston city centre were transformed with provoking murals from local, national and international artists.

To show off these creative feats, Frankston City Council launched personalised street art walking tours for Big Picture Fest which sold out so quickly, they were made a regular fixture.

Now locals and tourists alike can visit every second Sunday and see for themselves why Frankston has earned its reputation as a must visit destination for arts and culture. Hundreds of people have weaved through Frankston’s back streets and laneways, exploring the city in this cool new way in the 90 minute tour which includes 26 works in total, from the 2018 and 2019 festivals.

Frankston City Mayor Michael O’Reilly said the street art tours were a stunning way to get up close and personal with the artists, their story and the city. “These murals have given Frankston City not only a burst of colour, but a burst of life, celebrating Frankston urban bayside culture,” he said.

“The walking tours are receiving rave reviews from both residents and visitors and not surprisingly, there is so much to see and learn about the inspiration behind each artist’s work.”

NEW FACILITATOR JOINS MENTORING PROGRAM We welcome Kerry Stubbings as the new facilitator of the second series of our Mentoring Program in 2019.

Kerry’s leadership experience includes senior roles in Local Government, State Government and the not-for-profit sector with responsibility for the planning and provision of diverse community services and the management of large staff teams.

She is a highly skilled and successful executive leader with extensive experience and expertise in service provision, public policy, strategic planning, developing high performance teams, leading transformational change, stakeholder engagement, advocacy and good governance.

Kerry was named in the Victorian Top 50 Public Sector Women’s list for 2018 and has qualifications in leadership, project management, coaching and governance. Following many years as an executive leader in Local Government, 40

PROFILE SPRING 2019

Kerry is now working as a consultant, leadership coach and mentor, and as a Board Director. She is passionate about supporting people to experience growth, fulfilment and success in their work life.

We are now accepting enrolments from both mentees and mentors for the next series of our Mentoring Program.

Through the program a mentor (experienced individual) is assigned to guide and advise a mentee (learner) over an eight month period. Both participants are supported to form a professional relationship based upon openness, mutual trust, respect, encouragement and a willingness to share and learn from expertise and experiences.

DIRECTORS COME TOGETHER FOR A FORUM Directors working across the state came together for a Director’s Forum in Melbourne on Thursday 29 August.

Graeme Emonson, Executive Director of Local Government Victoria provided an update on the Local Government Act and other state projects and Paul Younis, Department Secretary, Department of Transport provided his reflections on his move to State Government from Local Government.

Earlier in the afternoon alumni from LGPro’s Executive Leadership Program met with the program’s Lead Facilitator, Chris Kotur with the primary objective to reconnect on life after XLP and to set the wheels in motion to establish a group for XLP alumni.

Following these events there was a dinner in the evening where Rosie Wheen, Chief Executive of Water Aid Victoria

Guest speaker at the dinner, Rosie Wheen, CEO of Water Aid (left) with Chris Kotur, Lead Facilitator of XLP.

spoke about her career and leadership.

From left, Malcolm Foard (Yarra City Council), Phillip Priest (Moreland City Council), Jaime Chubb (Rural City of Wangaratta), Daniel Freer (Kingstone City Council) and Chris Leivers (Yarra City Council) at the Director’s Forum.

EVENT SPONSOR

Thursday 5 December, 6pm-8pm The Melbourne Cellar Door 25 Dukes Walk, South Wharf 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. We will also be running a Young Professional Network Event prior to the Member Event.

Further information will be provided over the next few months.

PROFILE SPRING 2019

41

BRUCE DOBSON & ZOE THORN

Bruce Dobson Bruce Dobson, Director Customer Experience & Business Transformation at Boroondara City Council joined the LGPro Board last month. He has worked in the sector since 2001 and you can read more about his background on page 11 of this Profile.

What he enjoys outside of work?

His AFL football team?

Spending time getting hands on with lots of jobs at our small acreage in Hurstbridge, and hanging out with the family, including lots of Dad’s taxi trips on the weekends.

I used to say I was a long suffering Bulldogs supporter, but the suffering ended in 2016! Why the Bulldogs?

My great-grandparents lived in Gordon Street, Footscray, opposite the Western Oval. It’s in the blood!

His favourite sports and why?

I got into running about two years ago (is that a sport?). I’ve loved getting fit and there’s something quite meditative about going for a long run, sometimes tuning out, and sometimes using that time to think and plan. I’ve built up my distances slowly and ran my first marathon recently.

His last holiday destination and what he liked about it?

Capel Sound foreshore (Mornington Peninsula) in January. Each year I look forward to two weeks in the caravan down at the foreshore. It’s a great time getting away with the family and catching up with friends. We’ve been there over 10 years now. That’s a great holiday for me – downtime, books,

being outdoors, family, friends – time to recharge and reconnect.

Any hidden talents he has?

I write songs and play in a band! While I am only an ordinary keyboard player, I started writing songs a couple of years ago and have formed a band with some friends. We played our first gig at a birthday party not long ago. It’s been great fun.

What he enjoys most about his job?

I love the diversity of experiences that Local Government brings and the part I play each day for the community I serve.

Zoe Thorn Zoe Thorn is the Customer Experience Coordinator at Hume City Council. She started in Local Government almost seven years ago at Whittlesea City Council as the Project Management Framework Officer. After a few years she progressed to the role of Corporate Planner then had a year off to have her beautiful son. Zoe recently accepted a secondment to Hume City Council as Customer Experience Coordinator.

What she enjoys outside of work?

The last book she read?

Her favourite film this year?

My time outside of work is a wonderful mix of family, yoga, gardening and weekend adventures.

I have so many amazing books on my bookshelf that I could talk endlessly about, but the one I’m currently reading is ‘Blue Ocean Strategy’ by Renee Mauborgne and W. Chan Kim. I am loving it, and taking so many notes!

It presents the marketing theory that you can open up new markets and create new demand that ultimately makes your competition irrelevant, by moving from a red ocean (competition) to a blue ocean (no competition).

Such a great read, highly recommended for anyone with a business mind!

I don’t get to watch too many movies at the moment, and when I do they are usually G rated thanks to my three year old. However, we saw Toy Story 4 as a family recently and I just loved it!! Great memories for me, as the first Toy Story was released when I was in primary school. Just a beautiful story that will be loved by every generation.

Something about her that may surprise people?

Well, people are often surprised to find out I keep chickens as pets and for fresh eggs. In fact, I have six of them in a large coop that we designed and built ourselves. They are all loved and named; Mildred, Ethel, Gladys, Shirley, Helga and Sweep. We fondly refer to them as ‘our girls’.

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PROFILE SPRING 2019

What really annoys her?

I have recently been irritated with the use of ‘urban acronyms’ in emails such as KD, LMK and RN, or even ICYMI – I find myself having to Google what they mean and it’s super annoying!

Or maybe it’s a sign of my age hahaha.

DIARY DATES

PROGRAMS

PROGRAMS

Connect with us at

LGProVIC

DATE

INFORMATION

Nominations open on 9 October and close on 15 November for the 2020 program

To equip and support senior executives in Local Government.

To learn more visit XLP

Nominations open on 9 October and close on 15 November for the 2020 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 in Victoria. To learn more visit ELP

Thursday 24 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

Tuesday 29 October, LGPro Office

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

Tuesday 26 November, LGPro Office

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

Wednesday 16 October, Warrnambool City Council Wednesday 30 October, Horsham Rural City Council Tuesday 19 November, Rural City of Wangaratta Thursday, 21 November, LGPro Office

Designed for those who are new or recently appointed to the sector.

To learn more visit Induction to Local Government

AWARDS

CONFERENCES

CONFERENCES/SEMINARS Thursday 12 September, The Pavilion, Arts Centre Melbourne

Friday 25 October, The Pavilion, Arts Centre Melbourne

For Local Government staff who have an interest in active ageing and wellbeing. To learn more visit Active Ageing & Wellbeing Seminar

For Local Government staff working in the areas of corporate, community and social planning. To learn more visit Corporate Planners Network Conference

AWARDS Nominations close on Monday 21 October

Acknowledging the excellent work being undertaken in the Local Government sector. To apply visit Awards for Excellence

Thursday 10 October, Richmond Town Hall

A networking event for LGPro Corporate Partners.

To learn more visit Corporate Partner Networking Event

EVENTS

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES Corporate Partners Networking Event

LGPro Member Event

Thursday 5 December, Melbourne Cellar Door

A complimentary event for LGPro Individual Members to network with friends and colleagues. To learn more visit Member Event

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

PROFILE SPRING 2019

43

TAILORED STAFF ENGAGEMENT SURVEYS. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. The McArthur LG Life app allows Managers and staff to access tailored surveys quickly, easily and in real time, and delivers a range of business-critical benefits: • • • • • • •

Improve retention and engagement Foster a listening culture Connect instantly with staff Develop shared leadership Be responsive Be an employer of choice Save time and resources

To find out more, contact Talent Architects: t: (03) 9868 6565 e: ta@mcarthur.com.au w: mcarthur.life