September 2015 Profile Magazine

Quarterly magazine for Local Government Professionals Spring 2015

A Change in Landscape Conference 22 & 23 October 2015 All Seasons Hotel, Bendigo A collaboration between the LGPro Corporate Planners Network and Communications Special Interest Groups

Advocating on rate capping

New XLP scholarship

Be a bridge campaign

Submission on behalf of LG officers

Opportunity for female Directors

Reward your staff and grow their career

There are lots of reasons why it’s easy to trust us as your preferred training company Jania Warner Managing Director

PROFILE SPRING 2015

Contents

Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)

6-9 Pictorial coverage of 2015 Women’s Events

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

See all the fun pics from these two events

DEADLINES

promoting equality in sport for women.

Profile is published quarterly.

The deadline for Summer 2015 edition is 2 November 2015. The magazine will circulated electronically in December 2015.

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

which attracted almost women 800 people.

12 2015 Sally Isaac Award winner Meet Emily McKie, a remarkable young women

20-21 2015 Aged & Disability Services Seminar Learn all about this one day Seminar which focuses on how the sector is ‘At the Crossroads’.

23 New scholarship for 2016 Executive Leadership Program (XLP) Details of a new scholarship for a female Director to participate in our 2016 XLP including the opening and closing dates for nominations.

CREDITS

31 LGPro program news

Publisher: LGPro (03) 9268 6400 Editor – Vicki Amiguet Design: Bull Design Group (03) 9561 3313 www.bulldesigngroup.com.au

Find out about how our Ignite program can be tailored to suit all needs and the new compliance modules available in our online learning offering.

Profile is printed on recycled paper.

Main picture at top: A record crowd attended the 2015 LGPro Women’s Network Dinner.

34-35 Special Interest Groups connecting the sector More than 2400 officers across the sector are connecting through our 30 Special Interest Groups.

Find out how you can get involved.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Representing our members’ interests on rate capping

i

There are a lot of things happening in and around Local Government that we have been turning our minds to lately. We made a submission on rate capping in July and we have developed another submission in response to the rate capping draft recommendations.

I think it’s important that we make it clear that the reason we are making submissions is not because we support rate capping as a policy, but because we understand that it will be introduced and that we need to make our voice heard in an attempt to minimise the risk of it producing perverse and damaging consequences. Our

Gender equity LGPro has rightfully been proud

Invitation to connect with the Board

of its performance with regard to

The LGPro Board is keen to ensure

gender equity. Some examples of

that it is strongly connected to

this are that we have gender equity

its members and that it is able to

as a key selection criteria in our

acknowledge and promote the

leadership programs and the LGPro

excellent work being done. To that

Board has achieved at least an equal

end the Board is introducing a

number of women since 2006.

program of inviting representatives from one of our SIGs or other

submissions have been developed

We believe it is time to increase

through consultation with our

our efforts with the aim of seeing a

members and written with and by

substantial increase in the number

our members to ensure they are

of women in CEO roles in the

We are first and foremost a

from an officers’ perspective and

sector. We know that there are

member organisation and if we

are genuinely representative. We

many skilled, capable people of

are to grow our influence and

know from discussions with the

high integrity in the sector of both

impact we need your support to

Essential Services Commission and

genders capable of filling CEO roles,

grow the number and involvement

the Minister for Local Government’s

but the fact that currently only 15%

of our individual members.

office that our input is heard and

of CEOs are women suggests there

respected.

is a need for action.

Future workforce project

Following discussions with women

The work we are doing on the future role and workforce of Local Government is coming to the end of its first phase. We have received strong involvement and support for this work through CEOs and HR practitioners and we will be looking for broader involvement and input soon. The aim is to introduce some opportunities to trial new ways of using collaboration and technology to improve the capacity to meet community needs and in doing so, provide greater interest and satisfaction in the performance of your work.

4 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

CEOs we are working on a proposal to develop strategies and targets for women in senior roles and in particular CEO roles. We have flagged our interest in this with the Minister for Local Government and have received strong support, including funding for a scholarship for a female Director to participate in our 2016 Executive Leadership Program. We will be seeking your input on this work and we will keep you updated on our progress.

groups to present and sit in on our Board meetings.

I look forward to catching up with you at an LGPro activity soon.

BRENDAN McGRATH PRESIDENT

CEO’S MESSAGE

The important of transparency at all levels of government

i

I find myself somewhat bemused by statements from other levels of government about their desire to help Local Government improve its accountability and transparency.

It’s not that I think that people in

in professional development but

Local Government, appointed or

without the opportunity to reflect

elected, have no scope to improve

on your work and to see it through

their performance with regard to

the eyes of others we are always

transparency and accountability,

at risk of learnt blindness and

it’s more that it’s made to sound

accepting things that maybe we

like State and Federal Governments

should not.

have got it sorted and they need to teach Local Government how it’s done. There is no shortage of recent examples of Federal and State politicians and public servants behaving inappropriately, rorting the system for their own gain, failing to disclose conflicts of interest and bias and defrauding the government of millions of dollars.

Time for transparency Perhaps it’s time all levels of government came together to share their knowledge and to develop consistent standards of behaviour regarding transparency and accountability. The three levels of government have different functions and responsibilities and while we should be informing and educating the community about those various functions and responsibilities, the community has every right to expect that politicians and public servants at all levels of government are committed and accountable to the same standards of behaviour and performance.

The value of professional development I know you are busy and it’s hard to justify to yourself, much less

Pride March LGPro is a small organisation with a very large reach. Earlier this year we participated in the Pride March in support of our LGBTIQ members.

We were surprised and delighted at the response of the crowd to a

I was at the graduation of the

Local Government officer group

participants in the 2015 Executive

marching and were even more

Leadership Program (XLP). What

pleased by the comments we

struck me was the level of self-

received about how important this

awareness and openness that

small gesture was to LGBTIQ people

this group of people, who were

working in the sector. We had 20

strangers only seven months

people participate in our first march.

earlier, had achieved. Questioning

We aim to get at least 100 for the

themselves, as opposed to doubting

next one.

themselves, and being open to the opinions of others outside of Local

Will you be one in a hundred?

Government through their mentors

I look forward to catching up with

and their ability to care, support

you soon.

and gain insights from one another was inspiring. I hope they maintain their openness and enthusiasm

DAVID PREISS

and the desire to continue learning

“Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.”

and growing.

– Isaac Asimov

for reflecting on what’s important

Online learning modules By the end of October we will have a complete set of six online compliance modules customised for Local Government available.

We’ve had terrific input and advice from HR and Learning & Development people from right across the sector. We are confident that what we offer you will be better quality and more than competitive price wise than the products that are currently being used.

to others, the need to participate David Preiss with Australian of the Year, Rosie Batty at our Women’s Professional Development Forum.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 5

Record numbers attend

women’s events i

Record numbers attended LGPro’s two key women’s events – the Women’s Professional Development Forum and Women’s Network Dinner – held on 30 July

Panelists in the Advocate session, from left, Cr Meghan Hopper, Moreland Mayor; John Rogerson, CEO of Australian Drug Foundation and Sherene Hassan, Director of the Islamic Museum of Australia.

LGPro Board Member, Dennis Hovenden and Mary Miljanovic from Warner Institute.

The 295 women who attended the Forum heard from two high profile keynote speakers, Australian of the Year, Rosie Batty and the founder of the Carman’s muesli empire, Carolyn Creswell and attended a series of interactive sessions based around the Forum theme – Which future will you live?

Around 500 women and some men attended the Dinner and enjoyed a compelling keynote address by journalist and author Catherine Fox, who is one of Australia’s leading commentators on women and the workforce. Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2015 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award to Emily McKie, Game Development Officer at the Eastern Football League and Dandenong Ranges Junior Football League (see full story on Emily on page 12). Feedback from those who attended both events has been positive with many saying it was the strongest line up of speakers they had seen at events for some time.

Photos provided by Bruce Millikan Photography Carolyn Creswell makes a point during her keynote address.

Yarra City Council had a large contingent at the Dinner.

Australian of the Year, Rosie Batty spoke about domestic violence.

Captain Jennifer Wittwer

A didgeridoo featured in the Welcome to Country.

Record numbers attended the sessions at the Women’s Forum.

Ingrid Busuttil and Carmel Stapleton from Moonee Valley Council catch up with Rachel Whiting from McArthur.

From left, Cindy Dunbar, Andrea Gillies and Vicki Pulling from Yarra Ranges grab a coffee.

Catherine Fox provided a compelling address at the Dinner.

Chrissy Dainton and Dana Burnett from Hume City Council.

Panel conversationalist, from left, Marika Hubble-Marriott from Russell Kennedy; Sadhana Smiles, CEO of Harcourts Real Estate; Sharon Kelsey, former CEO and Caterina Borsato, restaurateur.

Aleesha Grace, Maryanne Mocnik and Riki Fenwick from Moonee Valley City Council.

LGPro Board Member, Robyn Mansfield chaired one of the sessions.

Exhibitors, Kylie Wickert and Kath Kelley (centre) from Horner chat with Jill Roache from Monash City Council.

LGPRO THANKS THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THESE EVENTS

Women’s Professional Development Forum MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Women’s Network Dinner MAJOR SPONSOR

6 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

Left: Zhanna Sichivista from Melbourne City Council enjoyed the Secret Women’s Business session.

Top: Representatives from OracleCMS who were the Major Sponsor of the Women’s Network Dinner, from left, Rebecca George, Ivona Petkovska and Christine Reynolds.

Emily Fothergill from Boroondara Council and Kristina Marko from Greater Shepparton Council.

SUPPORTING SPONSORS Sandy Keath and Melissa Crane from Murrindindi Shire Council.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 7

Record numbers attend

Indigenous dancers perform at the Welcome to Country.

women’s events

Heather Johnson from Wyndham City Council and Celia Haddock, LGPro Board Member.

The Darebin City Council group at the Dinner.

Sadhana Smiles makes a point during the Panel Conversation.

Presenter Carol Fox during her session on communicating to collaborate.

Front row from left, Pauline Bennett and Lynley Dumble (both LGPro Board Members); Emily McKie winner of the Sally Isaac Award with her certificate); Catherine Fox (Dinner guest speaker); Kerryn Ellis (LGPro Board Member). Back row from left, Jennifer Bednar (Dinner MC); Alison Coe, Rebecca McKenzie, Ceila Haddock and Robyn Mansfield (all LGPro Board Members).

LGPro Board Member, Allison Coe.

A group from Casey Council at the Dinner.

Captain Jennifer Wittwer

Yvonne Crouch facilitated the Secret Women’s Business session.

A capacity crowd of around 500 attended the Dinner.

Jania Warner from Warner Institute chats with colleague, Di Cook

Antonella Grosso and Sandra Pankhurst from Specialised Trauma Cleaning Services at their exhibition stand.

Kate Dempsey, who facilitated the Panel Conversation.

Jill Mottram and Alexander Giaquinta from Procurement Australia.

The photo booth at the Dinner proved popular with this group.

Michelle Scerri from Yarra Council with Lisa Ippolito and Elizabeth French from Hume City Council.

The contingent from Greater Dandenong City Council.

Bethany Holborn (left) from OracleCMS presents the TV they donated as a door prize to the winner, Melinda Grant from Whitehorse City Council.

Nick Kelly from McArthur participated in the Secret Women’s Business session

Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Local Government officially opened the Forum.

8 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

Left: Rebecca McKenzie, Jennifer Bednar and Diana Pawluk from LGPro.

There was some fantastic discussion during the interactive sessions.

Libby Ward Christie presented the Trailblazer concurrent session.

Moonee Valley trio, from left, Allison Coe, Jennifer McCurry and Sharon Jackman.

| 9

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Sally Isaac Award winner

The girl who just wanted to play AFL football i

Emily McKie, the 2015 LGPro Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship fund Award winner, has one major regret in life… that her mother never let her play AFL football!

But the 20 year-old hasn’t let that stop

Emily also coaches one of the U12 Girls

play football against boys and I encourage

her involvement in the coaching and

football teams in Healesville, and even

them to follow their dreams if that is

administration side of the game that

assisted Wesburn Junior Football Club

what they want to do.”

she is passionate about. As a Game

in starting its girl’s team by offering to

Development Officer with AFL Victoria

coach for the first two weeks. Last year

and the Eastern Football League and

she travelled to Vanuatu with Olinda Ferny

Dandenong Ranges Junior Football

Creek Football Netball Club as an AFL

League, Emily has been able to follow

official to coordinate clinics at schools

her dream of providing girls with more

in Vanuatu which she described as an

opportunities to play the game.

“awesome” opportunity. Jacinda Erich,

This year she organised two successful six-a-side girl’s competitions, one for under 12 girls and the other for under 16 girls.

They are affiliated with the Eastern Football

the Recreation Inclusion Officer at Yarra

(Outreach and Community Education) she is studying at LaTrobe University. Emily is hoping the course will provide her with a future career path with a focus on gender and diversity and aboriginal studies.

Sally Isaac Award and has taken on the role of her mentor.

“Jacinda has been a great support, we are

League and six sides are competing in each.

in regular contact and she motivates me

program she ran in her home town of

towards the Bachelor of Teaching

Ranges Council, nominated Emily for the

League and Dandenong Ranges Football

The competitions followed a successful

She plans to put the $10,000 scholarship

and provides me with really useful advice,” Emily said.

Healesville called Goals for Girls. Emily

Emily is passionate about social justice and

promoted the program through local

empowering women and girls to realise

football clubs and schools and was

their potential through participation in

amazed to have around 70 girls aged from

sport. She believes assisting more women

eight to 12 participate. “I was blown away

to be involved in playing, coaching and

by the success of the program and realised

administration in sport will elevate the

there were obviously a lot of girls who

current view of women as equal to men.

wanted to have a go at footy,” she said.

“When I go out and speak at schools I tell girls my mother wouldn’t let me

Sally Isaac winner Emily McKie (right) with her mentor, Jacinda Erich from Yarra Ranges Council.

2015 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award nominees Shalee Cameron Administrative Support Officer, Greater Dandenong City Council Nina Collins Engagement and Inclusion Coordinator, Yarra City Council Jacqui Hawkins LaTrobe University Student Ambassador, Wodonga City Council Jessie Lees Senior Manager, Community Partnerships, cohealth (community health service) Sharee Logan Children’s Services Library Officer, Boroondara City Council 12 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

Tanya McAlpin Events Coordinator, Wangaratta Rural City Council

Liz O’Loughlin Clayton CANVAS Program Officer, Monash City Council

Felicity Smith Access & Inclusion Officer, Knox City Council

ADVOCATING FOR THE SECTOR

LGPro advocates on rate capping i

LGPro is continuing to advocate for officers working in Local Government in regard to the introduction of rate capping in the 2016/17 financial year.

We have made two submissions to the Essential Services Commission (ESC) which is conducting a review and reporting to the State Government on a Local Government rates capping and variation framework.

LGPro President and CEO at Wangaratta Rural City Council, Brendan McGrath, has been invited by the Minister for Local Government to be part of the

• Capital works and infrastructure investment • Standards of service including delivery of discretionary versus non-discretionary services • Workforce relations and wage growth • Other Local Government Performance Management frameworks • Cost shifting and the

was released. In the report, Dr Ron Ben-David, the Chairperson of the committee overseeing the review, said he and his team had met with hundreds of people with an interest in Local Government including ratepayers, Council staff, councillors, their representative bodies and other peak organisations.

LGPro prepared a further submission in August in response to the recommendations contained

reference group that is providing

relationships between levels

in the review. Rather than duplicate

advice to the Minister on the

of Government

what was in our original submission,

work of the ESC in regard to the rate capping framework.

Our submission expressed concern that a rate capping framework that

this one only offered input on those draft recommendations where we have been asked to do so by our

The ESC was asked in January this

assumes CPI is a relevant measure

year to advise the Government

will fail to recognise the complex

on options and a recommended

nuances that are unique to the

it is warranted.

approach for a rates capping

Local Government budgetary

The submission stated: “While

framework for implementation from

model in Victoria.

we believe that there is insufficient

the 2016-17 financial year. It will also

“Our members are committed to

evidence to support the introduction

provide advice on the processes and guidance for the best approach to introduce this framework.

transparency and accountability but feel it is important that any attempt to constrain rates

members and where we believe

of rate capping, we acknowledge the efforts of the Essential Services Commission in undertaking

In April, the ESC released a

recognises that all communities

meaningful consultation.”

Consultation Paper which identified

and their Councils are different.

The next round of submissions

key challenges in designing a rates

They have different pressure points

will be considered by the ESC

capping and variation framework.

around service delivery, which

before it completes its final

That paper outlined the eight

increase and decrease according to

report by 31 October 2015.

principles that would guide the

the circumstances of that particular

Commission in developing the

community at a particular point in

For further information

framework and invited submissions

time. Councils need to retain the

on LGPro’s advocacy work

on the paper.

ability to respond to those dynamic

visit http://www.lgpro.com/

needs,” the LGPro submission said.

representation or contact David Preiss on (03) 9268 6400.

LGPro was one of 287 submissions received by the ESC. Our submission

In late July, the Essential Services

listed the following five key areas in

Commission’s ‘A Blue Print for

Local Government that we believe

Change, Local Government

the framework will impact, and

Rates Capping & Variation

outlined the effects it will have

Framework Review – Draft

in each area:

Report Volumes 1 & 11’

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 13

Hotline Sponsored by

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2016 AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE – GO ONLINE LGPro is introducing an online system for our 2016 Awards for Excellence to make nominating for an Award easier. The new system will streamline the process and means people will be able to start their nomination, save it and go back and complete it or check it at a later date before submitting it for consideration.

Nominations for the 2016 Awards, which celebrate the fantastic work of individuals and teams in the Local Government sector, are now open and will close at noon on Monday 12 October.

The following are the Award categories: • • • • • • • • •

Innovative Management Initiative Service Delivery Initiative Special Projects Initiative Community Partnerships Initiative Community Assets & Infrastructure Initiative ($1.5 million & under) Community Assets & Infrastructure Initiative (over $1.5 million) Sustainability Initiative Organisational Diversity Young Achiever

Winners of the Awards will be announced at the 2016 LGPro Annual Conference Dinner on Thursday, 25 February at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Visit http://www.lgpro.com/awards/awards-for-excellence for full details on how to nominate for an award or for further information contact the LGPro office on (03) 9268 6400.

2016 LGPro Annual Conference Thursday 25 & Friday 26 February Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre Theme – ‘Local Government is a verb’ STREAMS

NEW FOR 2016

• Place – role of Local Government as a placemaker

• Walking tours

• Person – putting you and your wellbeing first

• Ideas Marketplace to be developed and facilitated by Young Professionals

• Planning – for what’s next

• Dr Helen Szoke, CEO Oxfam Australia and human rights advocate a confirmed keynote speaker

• Participation – being a leader

• Short leadership talks

Full program and registration details available in November at www.lgpro.com

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 15

CONFERENCE NEWS

A CHANGE IN LANDSCAPE CONFERENCE

OTHER CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS • Presentation by Crispin Butteriss, a founding Director of Bang the Table and creator of EngagementHQ, Australia’s premier online community engagement application for governments of all levels. Crispin will speak on engaging the community from an online collaboration perspective for the provision of services.

This year the Corporate Planners Network Conference is being replaced with A Change in Landscape Conference. This is a one off collaborative initiative that has been developed between LGPro’s Corporate Planners Network and Communications Network Special Interest Groups.

22 & 23 October 2015 All Seasons Hotel Bendigo

The program will reflect on an era of accelerated change, financial constraints and increased scrutiny in performance that Local Government is currently experiencing through rate capping and the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework.

CONFERENCE DETAILS Thursday 22 October and Friday 23 October

VENUE

s

Crispin Butteris

• Marcel van Hove will present an interactive workshop on facilitation techniques to communicate process improvement and change. It will focus on an innovative way of facilitating working groups or consultation with key stakeholders by using the bikablo® drawing technique.

• Lee-Anne Molony from Clear Horizons, who is an Australian Evaluation Society Convenor, will host an interactive session that will equip participants with a set of good practice principles for evaluation.

• A walking tour will be held on Friday morning 23 October for delegates who want to see the best of what the Bendigo area has to offer. The tour will depart from the All Seasons Hotel at 9am.

Sessions, which includes keynote speakers, special presentations and workshops, target people working in both corporate and community planning and communications.

DATE

• A consultant from Red Quadrant will speak about proven techniques and ideas to balance the pressures of maintaining service, inspiring staff and creating sustainable change.

All Seasons Hotel, 171-183 McIvor Road, Bendigo

PROGRAM • Full day program on Thursday 22 October • Awards dinner on the Thursday evening with a Halloween dress up theme • Walking tour Friday morning 23 October

CONFERENCE DINNER

Marcel van

Hove

A Dinner will be held on Thursday 22 October at All Seasons Hotel in Bendigo with pre-dinner drinks starting at 6.30pm.

The two Excellence in Local Government Awards – Corporate and Community Planning and Communications – will be presented at the Dinner which will have a Halloween dress up theme.

We thank the Major Sponsor of the Conference and the Corporate and Community Planning Award

olony Lee-Anne M

Further information and to book for the Conference: Visit http://www.lgpro.com/events-activites/conferences/ a_change_in_landscape_conference or contact the LGPro office on (03) 9268 6400.

SEARCHING FOR CLAIMS ENLIGHTENMENT?

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Former Victorian Police Commissioner Ken Lay will speak about leadership in challenging times including how to work through leadership issues, addressing issues at the front end and establishing social connections.

Ken is a high profile Victorian who has recently been appointed to chair a new national task force to come up with strategies to tackle the spiralling use of the drug ice.

Chris Helder, one of the most in demand conference speakers in Australia, will present a keynote address around how to communicate effectively and influence people.

This will be followed by a workshop on the tools of persuasion (reading people, influencing and prioritising), how to apply to leadership and management and how to build resilience in an environment of change and the unknown.

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FEATURE STORY

An engineer at heart who likes building things

i

Vito Albicini has worked in Local Government for more than 20 years starting out as a university graduate with an engineering degree and progressing through to Manager level and then to a Director’s role which he has been in since 2007.

In that time he has gained experience in many areas from project and asset management through to transport, environment and open space. He has learnt from, and been mentored by the best in the business and in turn has tried to impart his knowledge to staff he has worked with over the years.

But ask him what has been the best thing about working in Local Government and his answer is simple: “I like to build stuff and see people getting enjoyment out of using it.”

He is proud of spending his career in a level of Government that provides so much for the local community. “Whether it is seeing children splashing in a swimming pool we have built or playing on new equipment, or fishermen launching their boats at a new ramp provided by Council, it still gives me a buzz,” he said.

“I guess I will always be an engineer at heart who likes building things, but the real thrill comes in seeing people enjoy them.”

Vito’s theory on Local Government being vital to communities came to the fore when he moved into his first Director role at Baw Baw Shire Council shortly before the Black Saturday bushfires. “I was definitely thrown into the deep end but it also confirmed my belief of the true value of Local Government to the community,” he said.

“While the State Government was still working out how to handle the situation our officers were at the

coalface providing vital support and assistance to the community.

Local residents were looking to their Council to help them and I was so proud that we were able to be there for them in their time of need. And as well as providing emergency services and support for many people who were deeply traumatised, we also had to keep the business side of the Council operation going,” he said.

Vito has always liked to challenge himself and to continue to learn during his career. He has completed a Graduate Diploma in Local Government Management and an MBA and is a graduate of LGPro’s Emerging Leaders and Executive Leadership programs. “I undertook ELP earlier in my career and found it helped to broaden by skill base and provide me with a better understanding of the sector. XLP, which I completed in 2012, really helped to develop my leadership skills and also allowed me to expand my network in the sector.”

coaching and mentoring staff to help them to develop their full potential,” he said.

Vito believes to be a great leader you need to be a good listener to people both inside and outside of your organisation and be courageous enough to make the tough decisions. “It’s also important to have a can do attitude and a philosophy of continuous improvement with a strong focus on improving what you do. We are facing difficult times ahead with rate capping, but this can also be a challenge to further refine the delivery of services to meet and improve community needs,” he said.

Throughout his career he has always enjoyed the “people” side of his job. In his current role as Director City Development at Frankston City Council, he has over 200 staff who he likes to “get out of the office” and see as much as he can.

“I believe it is important to develop strong relationships with your staff and to do this you need to be present, to lead from the front to provide them with the opportunity to develop and grow and you must reward and recognise their achievements. I firmly believe in

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 19

2015 LGPRO AGED AND DISABILITY SERVICE AWARDS DINNER & SEMINAR ‘At the Crossroads’

The provision of aged and disability services in Victoria is currently undergoing significant changes in the way services are provided. So it is fitting that ‘At the Crossroads’ is the theme of the 2015 LGPro Aged and Disability Services Seminar being held on Thursday 15 October 2015 at the Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre in Preston.

The one day Seminar targets people working at all levels in Local Government who have an interest in aged & disability services. This includes people working in assessment, administration, community development, disability services, human resources, community services, social planning, OH&S, social support, food services and other community care providers. The Seminar will include keynote speakers, a panel discussion, four interactive sessions and a performance by the 2 Hot 2 Handle hop hop crew.

K EYNOT E SP EA K E RS Claire Madden, social researcher and Director Research at McCrindle Research, will present a keynote address. With Australia’s ageing population, increased life expectancy and longevity, there are growing demands for aged care in our nation. Not only is Australia’s population growing, the older proportion of the population is growing at an even faster rate and Australians are living longer than ever. In 1984 there were 120,862 Australians aged over 85, today there are four times as many, and in 2044 there will be 14 times as many. Claire will provide an overview of the demographic realities creating this ‘perfect storm’, as well as a snapshot of the future based on the current trends. She will also outline the workforce challenges that this demand is creating and provide insights into how community service providers can best meet the in-home needs of this growing and ageing population.

Gerard Mansour, who was appointed Commissioner for Senior Victorians in 2013, will open the Seminar. His role encompasses advising the Victorian Government on key issues for seniors and providing community information and public education on seniors’ issues. Gerard will discuss a study he is undertaking for the Victorian Government on geographic and social isolation and loneliness among older Victorians. His study is also looking at the role that volunteering might play in addressing these issues and the importance of community-based opportunities for social engagement and connectedness, such as those provided through the development of age-friendly communities.

Age doesn’t matter. What matters most is how you age, and how you spend the time in between – Ritu Ghatourey Unless you try to do something beyond what you have

FAC IL I TAT ED PA NE L D ISCUSS IO N What lies beyond the crossroads?

The focus of the panel discussion will be on the HACC transition from a Commonwealth, State and Council perspective.

Panelists will offer their insights into the current environment and likely future direction. They will also provide their thoughts on the considerations for Local Government and key areas of focus required in understanding and deciding its future roles within this environment of change.

Panelists

Pauline Gordon, Director Community Wellbeing, City of Greater Bendigo Mary Rydberg, Manager Community Care & Library Services, Greater Dandenong City Council Deb Warren, HACC Transition - Ageing & Aged Care, Mental Health, Wellbeing, Social Capital and Ageing and Jeannine Jacobson, Manager HACC and Assessment, Ageing and Aged Care Branch, Mental Health, Wellbeing, Social Capital and Ageing, Department of Health

CO NCURR E NT I NT E RACT IV E SESS IO NS The cultivation of a successful collaborative partnership – presented by Nillumbik Council and RDNS

and working together is success – Henry Ford

Age is simply the number of years the world has enjoyed you! – Nishan Panwar 20 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

discusses the importance of mental health first aid awareness in the workplace focusing on the relationship between attention/cognitive function and the tasks undertaken. Participants will be equipped with communication strategies to employ when faced with a colleague/ employee or client presenting with mental health issues and/or inappropriate behaviours, along with effective strategies to address mental health concerns and who to contact to get further help.

HomeCare, Royal District Nursing Service. This case study will demonstrate some great outcomes that can be achieved when working within a collaborative partnership.

It’s simply a matter of biomechanics – a presentation about a two-phase collaborative research study undertaken

by Deakin University and the HACC Department from Banyule Council investigating the body angles and postures, muscle activation patterns and heart rate response associated with home support tasks, in both laboratory and home settings.

The research data was used to design interventions to minimise injuries, which are currently being implemented

by Banyule City Council.

The other 3 “Rs”- recruitment, retention and retirement – a workshop by Skills Training Australia addressing potential ways of utilising the skills and knowledge of an ageing workforce. A group facilitated problem-solving approach will be used looking at workplace scenarios emphasising key issues which may occur over the next five to 10 years. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute to the identification of tools and strategies to be used as potential solutions.

2015 LGPro Aged & Disability Services Awards Dinner The winners of the 2015 LGPro Aged & Disability Services Awards will be announced at a Dinner to be held on Wednesday 14 October, 6.30pm for a 7pm start at the Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre. Join us to recognise the excellent work being done, and to celebrate the success of individuals and teams working in the Victorian Local Government Aged & Disability Services sector.

The evening includes pre-dinner drinks from 6.30pm-7pm, a three course meal, entertainment by a DJ and presentation of the Awards. Arrange a Council table, bring your partner or just yourself and catch up with your colleagues from across the sector.

The 2014 winning team from the City of Yarra and Yarra Community Housing.

I NV I TAT IO N TO S HOWCASE YOUR WO R K Councils are invited to submit promotional brochures, flyers, material or merchandise that may be of interest to the broader Aged and Disability Services sector for distribution at the 2015 LGPro Aged and Disability Services Seminar.

already mastered, you will never grown – Ralph Waldo Emerson Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress,

Stephanie Cassidy, Director, Productivity Matters –

LGPRO THANKS THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS

The material will be inserted into the Seminar satchels that will be distributed to all delegates attending the Seminar. All material needs to be approved by LGPro and must be submitted by Friday 2 October 2015. For further information please contact Diana Pawluk at LGPro on 9268 6404 or email dianap@lgpro.com.

AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES SEMINAR

AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES AWARDS

THE COMMONWEALTH AND VICTORIAN GOVERNMENTS UNDER THE HACC PROGRAM MAJOR SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSOR

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 21

PROGRAM NEWS

Good governance is everyone’s responsibility i

Everyone working in Local Government has a responsibility to understand good governance and the important role it plays in Council operations.

LGPro’s Good Decision Making

Steve says the program targets

topic sounds as he encourages

workshop outlines what constitutes

all staff who are all required to

participants to discuss and come

good governance and why it is so

interact with elected councillors

up with good processes for decision

important to the sector. The one

and he is pleased with the range of

making that are repeatable and

day workshops have been operating

people who have been attending

sustainable. CEO and Councillor

in both metro and regional areas

from directors, line managers and

perspectives on governance are

for just over 12 months and are led

coordinators, communications staff

provided to ensure participants

by Steve Cooper, a governance

through to executive assistants.

receive practice and feedback

and ethics practitioner.

The content is not as dry as the

on real-world examples.

Here is what people who have participated in the program had to say:

Leanne Mulcahy, General Manager Corporate, Moira Shire Council

Robert Barr, Assessment and Care Planning Coordinator, Baw Baw Shire Council

Lise Eagan Bales, Media & Communications Officer, Horsham Rural City Council

“I enrolled in the workshop as I was

“I attended the workshop to

“I work closely with the CEO,

returning to Local Government

increase my knowledge of overall

Directors, Mayor and Councillors and

after two years working in industry.

Council process and function.

completing this program was a good

I saw it as a good opportunity to

It was an enjoyable day, well

reminder about the processes for

refresh myself on key considerations

planned and moved at a good

making and implementing decisions

within Local Government. It was

pace. I found the discussions with

and more importantly making

excellent, with a free flowing format

other participants useful, as were

decisions that are clear and open to

and offered the opportunity to ‘pick

the practical examples of different

the community. As communicators

the brains’ of the presenters and

situations that we were provided

in municipal government, we need

participants. I often refer back to

with. It has given me a greater

to have a strong commitment

the material that was presented on

understanding, particularly of the

to integrity, ethical values, and

the day. It was also great that it is

role and responsibilities of the CEO

the important of openness and

available in regional Victoria.”

and Council, and I would certainly

engagement with our stakeholders

recommend it to others.”

and the community.

The next Good Decision Making workshop will be held on Tuesday 27 October at the LGPro office.

For further information and to book visit Good Decision Making workshop.

22 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

PROGRAM NEWS

Government scholarship for female Council Director

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The Minister for Local Government, Natalie Hutchins has announced a new $5000 scholarship for a female Council Director to participate in LGPro’s 2016 Executive Leadership Program (XLP).

The scholarship was announced

that while the number of

Members were female. In 2015,

as part of a funding package to

women in leadership roles within

this has increased to 52% and 70%

encourage gender equity and

Local Government was slowly

of the LGPro Board are women.

increased diversity across Victorian

growing, women were still under

Councils. The Victorian Local

represented. Currently 39% (30) of

“We are also committed to

Governance Association’s (VLGA)

all mayors are women, 35% (217)

GoWomenLG 2016 project, which

councillors are women and 18%

aims to increase the number of

(14) Council CEOs are female.

female candidates across the state,

LGPro CEO David Preiss welcomed

received $50,000 and the Australia Local Government Women’s Association was awarded a $20,000 grant. Ms Hutchins said

the Government’s scholarship saying his organisation worked hard to promote and encourage gender equity. “In 2006, 37% of LGPro

XLP class of 2015

achieving a gender balance in our key leadership programs, XLP and ELP,” he said.

Applications for the 2016 Executive Leadership Program open on Wednesday 23 September and close on Friday 30 October.

For more details visit Executive Leadership Program or contact Leanne Bickley on (03) 9268 6400.

i

The XLP class of 2015 graduated from the program on Thursday 13 August. The participants were presented with their certificates by LGPro President Brendan McGrath. The group has met monthly since March this year to expand and develop their leadership skills and knowledge.

Applications for the 2016 program open on Wednesday 23 September and close on Friday 30 October.

Congratulations to the following 2015 XLP graduates: Alison Wastie, Director, Social and Economic Development, Yarra Ranges Council Sally Both, CEO, Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation Jeff Green, General Manager, City Development, Whitehorse Council Greg Little, Manager, Community Development, Northern Grampians Shire Council Ruth Kneebone, Director, Corporate Services, Wangaratta Rural City Council Simon Thomas, General Manager, City Works, Stonnington City Council Bruce Myers, Director, Community & Cultural Services, Swan Hill Rural Council Antoinette Mitchell, Manager, Community Strengthening, Bass Coast Shire Council Peter Panagakos, Director, City Development, Monash City Council Pauline Gordon, Director, Community Wellbeing, Greater Bendigo Council Frank Joyce, Manager, Human Resources OHS & Risk, Moreland City Council Janice Lane, Manager, Leisure & Wellbeing, Surf Coast Shire Council Katherine Oakley, Manager, Corporate Communications, Knox City Council Fleur Cousins, Manager, Active Ageing & Disability Services, Knox City Council Oliver Vido, Manager, Infrastructure Planning & Services, Greater Dandenong City Council Alison Leighton, Director, Infrastructure, Mornington Peninsula Shire Michelle Hansen, Manager, Financial Services, Greater Dandenong City Council Eric Braslis, Chief Executive Officer, Gannawarra Shire Council Mandy Hutchinson, Executive Manager, Community Wellbeing, Gannawarra Shire Council Jeff Saker, Director, Engineering & Infrastructure, Mitchell Shire Council Stuart Menzies, Director, City Development, Brimbank City Council Fred Warner, Executive Manager, People & Culture, Yarra City Council PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 23

Graduates of the 2015 XLP pictured at their graduation dinner.

REWARDING AND RECOGNISING STAFF

BE THE BRIDGE

to someone else’s success

By Virginia Boyd, Manager People Performance, Greater Shepparton City Council

i

Managing employees in the modern and fast paced workplace can be challenging, however the key to effective leadership is the ability to successfully engage, enable, empower and encourage our employees.

As senior leaders, if we reward

another, to build their knowledge

the behaviour and performance

of the sector and gain greater

we want more of from our

understanding as they build

employees, we will get more

their careers in the future.

of this behaviour from them.

Employees will perform highly when they undertake tasks that interest them, but more importantly because we continually reinforce with them that they are making an important contribution and we value this contribution.

We need to ensure a work environment that provides opportunities for internal To ensure our employees are

advancement, good work

in a position to maximise their

structure, provide competent

performance and feel job satisfaction

management and rewards on

every day at work we need to

merit. We also need to provide

provide them with resources,

challenging work, allow for

personal and professional support

employee creativity and provide

and the required professional

opportunities for personal

development opportunities. To

growth and advancement.

optimise performance employees need to be actively engaged to feel valued and to know that they contribute to their organisation.

Saying thank you to your employees could take the form of a gesture, personal acknowledgement in front

There are many examples of reward

of their team, department,

and recognition programs for

directorate or at a formal

employees; wellbeing programs

recognition function.

and other ways that we can reward employees, not simply through remuneration. In fact motivation through remuneration alone is proven not to be the trigger for exceptional performance. It is certainly not the only method of recognising employees as shown by the many excellent Reward and Recognition Programs now in place in Councils.

However offering our employees additional opportunities to grow and develop at work is also an important way to provide recognition. Why not consider rewarding your employees by

Be the bridge campaign In September, LGPro will be giving leaders in Local Government the chance to support and encourage staff who deserve recognition for their contribution to their team and to Local Government.

We are inviting LGPro Members working at Director and CEO level to be the bridge to someone else’s success so that those with the capacity to grow as future leaders in Local Government don’t have to get their feet wet on the way there.

LGPro is committed to working with all LGPro Members to strengthen the professionalism and integrity of the Local Government sector no matter what level or position you hold.

So look out for your special ‘Be the Bridge’ pack in the post and reward a deserving member of your team with LGPro Membership in 2015/2016!

providing them opportunities to join Local Government networks such as LGPro where there will be opportunities to learn so they may support one

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 25

2015 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE -‐ $1.5 MILLION & UNDER

WINNERS & FINALISTS

WINNER

GREATER DANDENONG CITY COUNCIL, AFGHAN BAZAAR PROJECT TEAM AFGHAN BAZAAR STREETSCAPE ENHANCEMENT

Greater Dandenong City Council partnered with the community in 2011 to develop a significant cultural precinct in Dandenong’s Afghan Bazaar which the community had asked the Council to upgrade.

The Council sought to invest in a community driven urban design solution for the Afghan Bazaar that

As a result, the Afghan Bazaar is now a visually distinctive urban streetscape that integrates authentic cultural elements and artwork. Innovative features include new dais style seating, paving, expanded footpaths, a focal centre-piece, landscaping and lighting treatments.

The street is now a cultural destination,

The State Government and Council funded the $1.2 million precinct project.

At the launch, the Hon. Matthew Guy, then the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, said: “Victoria is fortunate to be home to a vibrant and growing Afghan community and this exciting project provides a place for Victorians to experience and learn about Afghan culture and a place for the community to proudly share its traditions and culture with the wider society.”

Local community knowledge was valued and harnessed to develop a design framework for the project before the urban design team was appointed.

An extensive consultation process was undertaken with more than 1400 participants to discuss the divergent ethnic perceptions about the precinct’s identity.

Participants worked cooperatively to develop a unifying framework that shaped the design of the upgraded cultural precinct. Using social media,

26 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

BRIMBANK CITY COUNCIL, URBAN DESIGN TEAM, ALICE’S PLAYSPACE Alice’s Playspace is an inclusive playground located in the heart of St Albans that has become a key destination for the residents of Brimbank since it opened in July 2013.

This project to develop the playspace is an outstanding example of Local Government partnering with the private sector, which assisted with funding and in-kind support, while the consultation, design and delivery of this great space was led by Council staff.

This playground is innovative, interactive and engaging and caters for all abilities, young and old. Council and the Touched By Olivia Foundation (TBOF) worked together on the project in what is believed to be the first time this type of partnership has occurred in Victoria. TBOF specialise in providing Local Government with financial and in-kind support from the private sector in creating all-inclusive playgrounds for children with all abilities.

proactively addressed trader concerns of potential blight, low amenity, outdated area branding and social/physical disconnection.

a place where visitors and locals can share a diverse array of Afghan services, food, music and cultural experiences.

FINALISTS Alice’s Playspace is located in Errington Reserve which is in the heart of St Albans Activity Centre that contains an array of community buildings and sporting facilities. The reserve was gifted to the people of St Albans by Alice Errington in 1910.

The total construction budget for this project was $670,000 with $200,000 provided by TBOF through sponsorship and donations with the remainder provided by Council. The playspace is Stage 1 of the implementation of the Errington Precinct Master Plan, 2012 which builds on the recommendations of the St Albans Structure Plan, addressing community needs identified through the development of the plan and objectives for the Errington Precinct.

The social and interactive benefits that this park provides to the community are invaluable and Alice’s Playspace is considered a real asset to Brimbank.

TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL TALLANGATTA SPORTS CENTRE imagery, scale models and open dialogue, the local community was empowered

Afghan community and local community members helped to disseminate project

to verbalise its vision for the precinct to inform the design process.

information widely. The upgraded cultural precinct is a source of community pride

The Afghan Bazaar project is transferable to other organisations as an innovative consultation methodology and community driven design development approach.

and renewed identity and has become a popular attraction for food lovers. It has also established itself as a social space where community members meet, exchange news and support one

This approach can be used by other organisations seeking to partner with the community to develop culturally enriched urban design solutions. The resulting precinct design, developed by HASSELL, is based on the community identified themes and uses, materials, colours and patterns that reference Arabic geometries.

A positive commitment to the project by the local community and funding partners exceeded early expectations. The spirit of collaboration and respect saw solutions emerge to address cultural and language barriers, overcoming previously low levels of local community participation in the planning and design of community life. Council provided an equal voice to the various ethnic groups within the

another with settlement in Australia.

The Tallangatta Sports Centre is a signature project arising from Towong Shire Council’s collaboration with the local community through an extensive master planning process, called Tallangatta Tomorrow. The Council partnered with the Rowen Park Revitalisation Committee to deliver this key community recreational facility.

the local community. It incorporates an innovative and environmentally sustainable design providing improved amenities for a wide variety of sporting activities undertaken at Rowen Park. It is home to the Tallangatta Valley Football Netball Club, Tallangatta Cricket Club and the Tallangatta Swimming Club.

The centre is located in a sporting precinct surrounded by a football oval, cricket field, netball courts, swimming pool and hockey field.

It replaced an old derelict facility and includes much sought after improvements including a function space, commercial kitchen and accessible male and female facilities.

The new building provides a much improved and more functional space which is able to cater for a broader range of user groups promoting social inclusion and community participation. Netballers and sportswomen are provided with superior sporting change facilities and a compliant netball court to meet the demands of the game and to ensure equitable access for both spectators and players alike.

The project was born out of extensive community consultation undertaken as part of the Shire’s Tallangatta Tomorrow master planning process and was keenly advanced by the Rowen Park Revitalisation Committee.

The Tallangatta Sports Centre was funded by the Victorian Government ($878,692), Towong Shire Council ($536,000) and

The Tallangatta Sports Centre is highly supported by the general community, Tallangatta and District Football Netball League, Tallangatta Cricket Club, Cricket Victoria, Netball Victoria, Cricket Australia, Tallangatta Secondary College and Council.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 27

2015 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

COMMUNITY ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE -‐ OVER $1.5 MILLION

WINNERS & FINALISTS

WINNER

HOBSONS BAY CITY COUNCIL, NEWPORT GARDENS EARLY YEARS CENTRE PROJECT TEAM NEWPORT GARDENS EARLY YEARS CENTRE PROJECT

In January 2014, Hobsons Bay City Council opened the state-of-the-art $5.4 million Newport Gardens Early Years Centre. The facility was funded by Council with a $1 million contribution from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

It has met a number of key outcomes for the municipality addressing a shortage of early year’s services, the consolidation of

Services include Yooralla Early Intervention and Family Support, Maternal and Child Health, 149 licensed places for long day

Construction of the centre has enabled delivery of an integrated early year’s

single site, under a financially sustainable model for all parties, that is managed by a not for profit service provider, Early Childhood Management Services (ECMS).

The creation of an early year’s multi-use hub located on a school site where families can access a multitude of services is unique. A defining factor of this project is that every key objective was achieved; this included project completion on time and on budget, the successful relocation of large entities, the implementation of an integrated governance model and a sustainable business model aligned with community expectations.

In a short time the centre has proven to be an invaluable resource for the Hobsons Bay community. Under the management of ECMS, it is committed to a range of high quality services under a governance model which promotes community

28 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

East Gippsland Shire Council has delivered an innovative $1.72 million all-abilities playground following a 10-year grassroots community campaign for a local and accessible playspace.

The East Gippsland All Abilities Playground was conceived in 2004 by a community-led steering committee which saw a need for a fully accessible playground in Bairnsdale, complete with toilet, shower, BBQ and car parking amenities.

The result is a 2000m2 fully inclusive playspace that uses “universal design principles” to ensure the park and amenities are accessible to everyone. A Liberty Swing enables people in wheelchairs to experience the simple joy of swinging at a playground, and there are six

care 0-6 years and kindergarten, toy library, playgroups and community rooms.

In constructing this facility, Council has brought together a not-for-profit committee and Council services on a

EAST GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL, KATE NELSON, PRUE MCTAGGART AND GEOFF NEWTON ALL ABILITIES PLAYGROUND PROJECT

The Council partnered with key stakeholders, including the East Gippsland All Abilities Playground Association Inc, service groups, community groups, State Government agencies and local businesses to deliver this outstanding new experience for children.

ageing infrastructure, relocation of several services and establishment of the first early year’s hub to be based on a school site – Newport Gardens Primary School.

service model that has been embraced by the community since it opened.

FINALISTS

engagement, participation and delivery of integrated services for all families

provides the opportunity for quality learning outcomes.

and those targeting vulnerable families.

This is evidenced by initiatives driven

The overarching state policy intent

by Yooralla specialist services, conduct of facilitated playgroups, targeted assessment by Maternal Child Health and early literacy programs.

The excellent working partnership already established between the Newport Gardens Primary School and the early years centre has already ensured integrated, seamless service delivery for families.

The community has clearly endorsed this model with prep enrolments growing from 26 two years ago to 80 in 2015.

to support the smooth transition of pre-school children to the primary school environment by facilitating the construction of early year’s facilities on school grounds is proven with the community response to this facility.

This strong partnership and service model clearly has the potential to improve educational outcomes for young people with all early years providers on site able to focus on the developmental progress of participants.

accessible toilet cubicles, one with a washing facility and hydraulic hoist.

The East Gippsland All Abilities Playground is a major public asset, contributing to the health and wellbeing of the community and delivering widespread social and economic benefits. It is an excellent example of State Government, Local Government and community groups working together to deliver outstanding outcomes for the region.

The playground features interactive descriptors sharing East Gippsland’s history. Play areas represent the region’s rich heritage, including a timber mill representing the mountains, hinterland and timber industry; a boat and sandpit representing fishing, tourism and the Gippsland Lakes; and a BBQ area and paths representing local towns and highways.

As well as providing an inclusive recreational resource, it is a popular meeting place and tourist stopover point with a high profile location beside the Princes Highway.

KINGSTON CITY COUNCIL CARRUM SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB PROJECT When severe storms all but destroyed the Carrum Surf Life Saving Club, Kingston City Council made a new development a major priority.

In planning the new building, the Council’s priorities were to renew the buildings and surrounds with a focus on improving safety for beachgoers and boating users of the Patterson River, and also to encourage greater use of the Carrum Foreshore Precinct.

From a design perspective the building and linked outdoor spaces have provided the impetus to encourage children of all ages and abilities to maximise their potential and enhance their play and

The end result is a state-of-the-art clubhouse that meets best practice guidelines and reconnects central Carrum to the foreshore through a visual link to the sea. The facility has not only set the benchmark for future community infrastructure developments in Kingston, it provides a best practice example for life-saving clubs across the nation.

learning experiences. The external play spaces designed in consultation with local families with an emphasis on the natural local coastal environment

The total cost of the project was $1.9 million with Council providing $1.2 million and $700,000 coming from external funding.

Distinguishing features include:

• A unique design which re-establishes the visual connection between the sea, the Carrum Shopping Centre and the railway station • The project was a catalyst for the regeneration of the Carrum Foreshore, providing a safe new playground which is now one of Kingston’s most popular areas where families and children utilise the inspirational toddler sand-play spa • A highly functional partnership arrangement with key stakeholders and project participants, enabling the pooling of investment to achieve the delivery of this new landmark building The project has created a vibrant new foreshore precinct at Carrum and has provided a stimulus for change in this relatively disadvantaged area. This vital infrastructure and aesthetic regeneration will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in encouraging residents to feel proud of where they live and provide them a heightened sense of community connectedness.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 29

procurementaustralia.com.au

PROGRAM NEWS

Stepping up’ to ignite leadership skills i

LGPro’s Ignite program has provided a valuable ‘step up’ for Local Government staff new to supervising people.

The versatile program has been

A total of 16 staff in coordinator

environment and will include

offered in Melbourne and rural

roles at Glenelg, Corangamite,

specific examples that participants

areas to help people develop the

Warrnambool, Moyne, Colac

can relate back to their workplace.

competencies required to be

Otway and Ararat Councils will

successful and to support their

participate in the regional Ignite

transition into a leadership role.

program from September to

For the first time a group of six Councils in the south-west of the State are banding together to offer the program to their staff.

A customised and targeted version

November this year. The program has been adapted to meet the

Two series of the Ignite program have been offered this year and both were well supported by the sector.

needs of the group and to keep

If you want further information

their travel and time away from

on this program and how it

the office to a minimum.

can be tailored to suit your

of the program may also be piloted

The customised pilot program

next year for Depot Based or

for depot based and outdoor

Outdoor Crew team leaders.

staff will be relevant to their work

needs please contact LGPro on (03) 9268 6400.

The latest group of Ignite graduates who completed the program last month.

Online learning modules ready next month The first six compliance modules in LGPro’s new specialist online learning being offered in partnership with Global Vision Media will be ready in October.

The modules which are customised for Local Government are:

• Bullying & harassment,

to build further customised Local

incl. sexual harassment

Government specific practitioner

• Fraud prevention and awareness • Victorian Charter of Human Rights In recent months LGPro has met with several Councils to discuss

• Information privacy

their online learning needs. Once

• OH&S

the compliance modules have been

• Equal employment opportunity

taken up by Councils, the plan is

led online learning programs, as well as online material as an adjunct to existing face to face programs.

For further information on LGPro online learning contact David Preiss on (03) 9268 6400.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 31

DEVELOPING FUTURE LEADERS

Emerging Leaders Program offers lifelong rewards

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Emerging leaders from Councils across the State come together each year to participate in LGPro’s Emerging Leaders Program. They have various reasons for enrolling in the program and different expectations of what they will get out of it. In this Profile we talk to three participants in the 2015 Emerging Leaders Program to learn what being part of the program has meant to them.

Brooke Wilson, Partnership and Communications Coordinator in the Healthy Together Whittlesea team A bit about your role…

for family, I was keen to reinvest

ELP program has provided me not

in my professional development

only with the incentive to contribute

and leadership skills. Several of my

positively to this internal program,

colleagues at the City of Whittlesea

but the skills and confidence to

have participated in the program in

make a difference within my team

Katherine Thom, Aquatic Program Coordinator, Yarra City Council

What have you liked about

in which I understand myself

the program…

differently, to how I approach

There is so much to like about this

situations and manage myself

A bit about your role…

program; getting to work each

as a professional in the workplace.

month with a group of highly

Has this been a good professional

motivated and clever leaders has

development opportunity…

I have been in my role for the past four years which involves organising a lot of moving pieces to deliver over 600 weekly swimming lessons, across three leisure centres to almost 3000 learn to swim students within the community.

My team is made up of nearly 70

been wonderful, as well as interacting and having personal learning master classes with some of the best leaders within the Local Government sector.

The program continues to exceed my expectations.

I believe it is vital for Council’s to invest in their staff to develop through the Emerging Leaders Program. The gift of granting time away from your day-to-day role unlocks different and new thinking,

swim teachers and programming

How has the program helped you…

which you can bring back to your

staff, who are stellar in helping to

I have noticed a number of changes,

workplace the very next day and

achieve such a moving feast!

both large and small. From the way

start doing.

the past and spoke highly of it and

and across the organisation.

I have been in this role for just

their experience with it. I was keen to gain new insights and skills from

Personal highlights from

Applications for the 2016 Emerging Leaders Program open on Wednesday 23 September and close on Friday

over three years. Healthy Together

peers across Local Government and

the program…

30 October. For more details visit Emerging Leaders Program or phone Violeta Madireddi on (03) 9268 6400.

Whittlesea aims to tackle preventable chronic diseases caused by obesity,

the mentors and leaders involved

smoking and poor nutrition -

in the delivery of this program.

working with local community, schools and workplaces to create healthier environments. My role in the team is to identify and support

Has the program helped you to make a difference in your workplace…

I have made new networks with colleagues from across the sector and have had the opportunity to work with people with a range of backgrounds and experiences.

The professional development

partnerships between Council,

My workplace is undertaking

workshops associated with the

Plenty Valley Community Health,

a ONE Whittlesea program,

program have been interesting

local business and community

implemented by the People and

and challenging, providing me

organisations and residents.

Culture Department including a

with motivation and skills that

comprehensive leadership program

I have been able to bring back

Why participate in ELP…

for senior management across the

to my day-to-day work at the

After taking a break from my career

organisation. Participating in the

City of Whittlesea.

Lauren Rundle, Executive Assistant to CEO, South Gippsland Shire Council

What have you liked about

throughout the program allows you

the program…

to discuss what is happening at your

The speakers have been wonderful,

workplaces and share ideas on how

Career background…

engaging and we would not have

I’ve worked in Local Government for seven years. Previously, I worked for Beretta Australia (yes the Italian firearms company) as their Exports Manager. I enjoyed my role and the travel opportunities it provided, but was very keen to return to beautiful South Gippsland where I grew up.

access to otherwise. That being said, the networks and friendships gained

things can be done better. You really do leave each session inspired to be a better person and do better things

throughout the program with other

in your role.

participants are by far the greatest

Would you recommend the

highlight for me. Each and every

program to others…

participant is thrilled to be involved

Most definitely. Opportunities like

and works so hard to learn and support one another along the way.

the ELP course really reinvigorate your interest in Local Government

I secured the role as EA to the CEO

How has the program helped you…

and support natural leaders at

and promised myself I would stick it

It has definitely pushed me out of

all levels of the organisation. I’ve

out for one year… but I am still here

my comfort zone helped me gain

as like so many others, I’ve caught

confidence and provided me with

the Local Government bug!

an opportunity to focus on my own learnings and future career. The interaction with other participants

32 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

already encouraged several of my colleagues to nominate for the ELP

Join us for this joint LGPro/YIPPA event for young professionals working in the public sector Get involved in conversations with leaders around innovation, what they see in the future for the public sector and what that means for you in charting your own course to lead into the future and beyond?

Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Wednesday 7 October 10am for 10.30am start, finish about 4pm CQ Melbourne 113 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000 LGPro Members: $220 incl. GST and Non Members $330 incl. GST

2016 program! The course content

Visit Young Professionals Network Event or contact LGPro

in itself is brilliant, but the friendships

on (03) 9268 6400 for further information

and networks you will create are lifelong rewards!

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 33

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Connecting with a common purpose

Arts & Culture SIG learning from others in the industry

i

i

More than 2500 Local Government professionals are currently registered with one or more of LGPro’s 30 Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and since February this year, 64 SIG meetings have been held.

Each year people working in Local Government have the opportunity to participate in SIG meetings and activities to willingly share their ideas and knowledge for a common purpose – to enhance the programs and services they provide to their local communities.

With networks ranging from 25 to 240 people, conversations are taking place every day in meetings and through LGPro’s online forums about the big issues effecting the sector.

Many of our Special Interest Groups are also helping to shape the sector work in advocacy and

representation. This year, the Corporate Planners Network, in collaboration with a group of CEOs from a mix of metropolitan, interface, growth, regional cities and rural Councils, together with the LGPro Board developed a submission to the Essential Services Commission which emphasised the range of impacts rate capping will have on Councils.

In addition to the opportunities for networking at SIG meetings, LGPro works closely with members of our groups to provide the sector with events and conferences

at affordable rates. Members work hard behind the scenes to generate programs that are engaging and relevant. The Aged and Disability Services Network work with LGPro each year to bring the Aged and Disability Services Seminar and Awards to the sector, members of the Web Network and Communications Network help to deliver the popular Social Media Conference, and this year the Corporate Planners Network and the Communications Network have teamed up to develop the program for the A Change in Landscape Conference in Bendigo in October.

LGPro’s largest SIG The Web Network is convened

by Steve Fuery from Bass Coast Shire Council and is currently LGPro’s largest network comprising 200 members who work on the web in Victorian Local Government.

The network meets quarterly, has a very engaged Google Group and once a year in collaboration with LGPro, hosts the Social Media Conference.

This year the Web Network conducted a survey of its members to provide a snapshot of resources, skills, software and best practices across the sector. The group has also started a new tender process for the provision of website software, which was last run in 2010.

A range of presentations have been made during their meetings from in-house case studies to industry vendors sharing best practice.

34 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

Examples include a joint presentation between South Gippsland Shire Council and Oursay.org on their budget consultation, the City of Bendigo sharing their experience with Siteimprove, a website quality assurance service who Skyped in from the US. Members from Warrnambool and Manningham also shared a presentation on their adoption of open source software, dispelling a few myths along the way.

The network achieves healthy attendance numbers and also stream meetings online for members from remote Councils who can’t make the journey to Melbourne.

If you would like to join the Web Network, contact Steve on (03) 5671 2765 or email s.fuery@basscoast.vic.gov.au

LGPro’s Arts & Culture Special Interest Group is one of our most active and successful groups in reaching out to learn from others in their industry.

Michelle Ely, Teams Leader of Arts & Investment at Melbourne City Council, has been Convenor of the SIG since it started five years ago. In order to engage colleagues she sets themes for meetings that are relevant to all working in arts and culture whether they are in a metropolitan or rural Council. “The aim is for everyone attending to connect with the topic and to take something away from our meetings that will inform their work” she said.

Up to four people deliver theme based presentations relating to an aspect of arts and culture at each SIG meeting. They can be from small community based organisations right through to the organisers of large events such as White Night and the World AIDS Conference and Cultural Program.

At recent meetings the group has focused on some challenging areas of the arts including: • Censorship in the arts with a presentation by the CEO of the National Association for Visual Arts (NAVA) who provided provocative and informative advice on how Local Government can better deal with the issue of censorship when or if this arises.

• Delivering festivals (both

Steve Fuery says: “We still have much to achieve in the coming year, including developing a common set of resources and exploring the changing future of customer engagement, as Council websites are now a channel for two-way communications with our customers.

We’re passionate about doing business in the digital space, which is where many of our customers are now.”

general and film festivals)

featuring presentations by people involved in running festivals which varied significantly in size, complexity, attendance numbers and risks.

• Other themes for meetings have included jewellery and craft artists, arts and heritage conservation, visual arts, cultural diversity and access to programs for artists with disability.

To improve the involvement of officers working in arts and culture in rural Councils, one SIG meeting this year was held in a regional area. Macedon Ranges Council hosted the June meeting which was well attended by over 25 people. “This was a terrific meeting as the agenda focused on local arts and culture issues which generated some fantastic discussion from people working at both metro and rural Councils,” Michelle said.

Networking, problem solving and sharing ideas is another focus of each meeting with time set aside for a round table discussion.

“This is pretty much an open forum where our members share and discuss whatever is on their mind including the issues that reflect both day to day matters and problem solving around strategic issues impacting the arts and culture,” she said.

“We also connect with each other via email between meetings if issues crop up which require attention or one of our members wants specific advice and feedback.

Therefore the meeting is serving many purposes and the time invested is very worthwhile for members.”

The next meeting of the Arts & Culture SIG will be held on Friday 23 October from 10am1pm. For further information visit Arts & Culture SIG or or email sig@lgpro.com

Want to join an LGPro SIG? While you do not need to be an LGPro Member to be part of a Special Interest Group, our members make it possible for us to support these groups which provide professionals working in Local Government with the opportunity to network, share best practice and learn about the latest trends and developments in areas of special interest.

You can join LGPro’s Special Interest Groups by request to sig@lgpro.com

Web Network Convenor, Steve Fuery presenting at the 2015 LGPro Social Media Conference.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 35

FEATURE ARTICLE

Communication top down bottom up

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Communication is in our DNA. Without it we limit our knowledge, have few friends and will never become wise. Personal communication between two or a few is relatively simple – information, opinion and response makes content, words and pictures give us voice, body language and facial expression give us away.

But when many are communicating

communication if they can.

where communications officers

with many others, such as between

With that as background, my

have service area portfolios,

a corporation and its publics, it’s

hypothesis is that the organisations

supported by a backroom of

not that simple. For corporate

able to communicate best and

content delivery experts.

communications departments

most effectively are the ones

there’s a bunch of internal publics

striking a balance between this top

as well, between a rock and a hard

down verses bottom up scenario.

place if not resourced accordingly.

• Wellington Shire Council’s communications department took advantage of tablet

We sent out a straw poll via LGPro’s

deployment across the

Commercial corporates have it

Communications Network asking,

organisation and use of

easy. Whatever triggers a sale is

“What is the best or most effective

the MS One Note cloud for

good and easily measured. On the

thing your communications

“simultaneous document editing

other hand, governments have

department has done in the

by multiple parties”, streamlining

multipurpose policies in lieu of

last year or two?” The question

content creation for everyone.

single purpose products, and the

excluded turn-key projects and

• Yarra City Council took internal

payoff is a functional and cohesive

campaigns. By and large, responses

communications to the level

community, not sales. Needless

seem to support the hypothesis,

it deserves, consulted with

to say, it’s what services do at the

for instance:

staff to produce a strategy and

coal face (or the solar panel) which ultimately produces this payoff.

• Baw Baw Shire Council set up a “news brand” and diversified

indicators, and appointed a dedicated officer to run with it.

As keepers of corporate channels,

its channels to better match

If these examples are at all a guide,

communications departments

intended audiences, an

the best thing you can do to

experience a continuous stream

important factor for services.

improve corporate communication

of demand from services for airspace and expertise.

• Benalla Shire Council made its

is to improve how the corporate

customer service staff corporate

and the rest of the organisation

A corporate communication

messengers with a regime of

work together.

department’s default role is to

regular and detailed briefings about major initiatives.

Effective communication lies less

inform, pre-empt and represent the organisation at large. Although

• The City of Boroondara

their colleague service departments

reimagined its modus operandi

may understand why, if not given

for services communication by

enough attention they’ll feel

setting up an agency model,

out on a limb and do their own

36

in controlling the message than accommodating the diversity of messages your organisation has.

Verne Krastins Sector Connector

NEW LGPRO MEMBERS

Welcome to new Members

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We would like to welcome the following new members who joined LGPro from 01 July – 17 August 2015. We look forward to working with you to shape this wonderful sector.

Courtney Aquilina Latrobe City Council

Paul Fitzgerald Banyule City Council

Leanne Mulcahy Moira Shire Council

Michael Bailey Northern Grampians Shire Council

John Gabb Port Phillip City Council

Roger Murnane Whitehorse City Council

Jodie Basile Gannawarra Shire Council

Jackie Gatt Greater Dandenong City Council

Andrew Newton Glen Eira City Council

Andrea Bolte Glenelg Shire Council

Lucia Giagnorio Boroondara City Council

Cheryl Nickels-Beattie Mansfield Shire Council

Robyn Bonaddio Moira Shire Council

Warren Groves Northern Grampians Shire Council

Linda Nieuwenhuizen Moira Shire Council

Bruce Braines Strathbogie Shire Council

Ann Hawley Boroondara City Council

Fiona O’Brien Horsham Rural City Council

Margaret Brennan Melton City Council

Dan Haysom Strathbogie Shire Council

Jane O’Brien Moira Shire Council

Bailey Byrnes Banyule City Council

Kate Heissenbuttel Moonee Valley City Council

Vanessa O’Toole Moorabool Shire Council

Shalee Cameron Greater Dandenong City Council

Anne Howard Campaspe Shire Council

Emily Outlaw Banyule City Council

Jessica Campbell Boroondara City Council

Melissa Huell Melton City Council

Karen Parkinson Bayside City Council

Cathy Capogreco Nillumbik Shire Council

Lauren Iseppi Northern Grampians Shire Council

Stephanie Sassine Moonee Valley City Council

Natalie Capsalis Greater Dandenong City Council

Colin Kemp Horsham Rural City Council

Michael Sinclair Hume City Council

Jill Clarke Indigo Shire Council

Tony Kerr Greater Geelong City Council

Robyn Sommers Knox City Council

Michelle Collett Hepburn Shire Council

Sandra Mack Moonee Valley City Council

Alana Stevens Moonee Valley City Council

Jayne Cook Wyndham City Council

Kaye Mason Campaspe Shire Council

Zoe Thorn Whittlesea City Council

Jason Crockett Moonee Valley City Council

Sean McManus Whittlesea City Council

Jane Tyzack Maribyrnong City Council

Karoline Curits Maribyrnong City Council

Ben McManus Banyule City Council

Andy Van Horsham Rural City Council

Lisa Davis Port Phillip City Council

Kirsty Merritt Nillumbik Shire Council

Tracey Varley Yarra Ranges Council

Brant Doyle Moira Shire Council

Cian Middleton Moira Shire Council

Cher Wakefield Bass Coast Shire Council

Dianne Elshaug Moorabool Shire Council

Lisa Moore Hobsons Bay City Council

Hannah White Mitchell Shire Council

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

Why join LGPro? LGPro Membership gives our members a voice on issues that matter to them and an opportunity to be part of the solution. LGPro Members can participate in professional development activities at significantly reduced rates, acquire specialist advice and resources and access a professional community that will support them through their career in Local Government.

Find out more about LGPro Membership benefits in 2015/2016.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 37

LGPRO TEAM

Introducing the new LGPro team members

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LGPro is pleased to introduce two new team members – Thalia Petroulakis our full time administration support officer and Columbia Winterton who has moved into a part-time professional development support role.

Thalia joined LGPro last month

Columbia has been part of the

working at the niche professional

after having worked for 10 years in

LGPro team since January when

organisation that is LGPro, and looks

a customer service/administrative

she joined to fill the administration

forward to making a contribution to

role for a large retail organisation.

support role on a short-term basis.

professional development.

She was attracted to the role at

She quickly fitted into the team and

LGPro as the organisation’s vision

brought with her a range of skills

and values are in line with her own.

as a professional writing, editing

“I was also attracted to working with

and philosophy major, along with

a smaller team and organisation

her Local Government background

that provides a multitude of quality

working as a casual at Stonnington

professional development programs.

City Council.

I look forward to building long lasting relationships with members, staff and all those involved with the wonderful and meaningful work of LGPro,” she said.

Columbia moved into the new part-time professional development support role recently and works closely with Leanne Bickley and Violeta Madireddi. She says she likes

Columbia Winterton (seated) and Thalia Petroulakis.

Thursday, 8 October from 5.30pm-7.15pm Richmond Town Hall, 333 Bridge Road, Richmond Financial LGPro Corporate Partners are invited to bounce around ideas and seek frank advice from LGPro Board Members and senior people from within the Local Government sector.

It is run as a speed networking event with additional time for general networking. Remember to bring your business cards on the night to provide to the Local Government representatives in attendance.

Note: This event is only for 2015/16 financial Corporate Partners. Invitations will be sent this month.

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

38 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

FEATURE ARTICLE

Encouraging cybersafety and digital inclusion

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Libraries play an important role in bridging the digital divide by providing opportunities for Australians of all ages to appreciate the benefits of technology, regardless of their income or skill.

Thanks to the Alannah and

helped them deliver the best

The eSmart framework for libraries

Madeline Foundation’s multi-

possible service to users both

has been developed from a holistic

year partnership and $8 million

young and old.

and evidence-based approach

investment with the Telstra Foundation, a purpose-built cybersafety solution called eSmart Libraries is being provided to public libraries at no cost. It is designed to equip library staff and users with the skills to be smart, safe and responsible when using online technology.

More than 40 per cent of Australia’s public libraries have signed up for eSmart Libraries with branches in metropolitan, regional and remote areas of Australia joining every week.

“eSmart Libraries gives our library service the opportunity to comprehensively review policy and procedures,” Ms Klein said.

www.esmartlibraries.org.au

assisting customers on important issues such as cybersafety.”

The eSmart accreditation process can take each library between six and 24 months to complete and can be paused and progressed at any time. Across Australia, 626 public library branches are with the aim to reach 100 per

community’s greatest barriers in the

cent of public libraries by 2018.

“Running regular cybersafety education programs and providing resources via eSmart Libraries helps us achieve our aim of increasing community access to digital technologies,” Cr Frederico said.

Australian Library and Information Association Executive Director, Sue McKerracher said her association was in full support of the program.

“We are really supportive of this initiative. It fits so well with libraries being essential community resources – physical and online spaces for people

Moonee Valley Libraries eSmart

to share knowledge and ideas,”

Libraries Coordinator, Nicola

Ms McKerracher said. “The internet

Klein said the library service was

has opened so many new doors

extremely excited to have recently

for library professionals to help

achieved its accreditation. Ms Klein

library users discover inspiration

said eSmart was vital in ensuring

and information at their fingertips.”

library users could access and enjoy digital technology in a safe, smart and responsible way.

digital behaviours.

For more information visit

Felicity Frederico said one of the

when working with senior users.

smart, safe and responsible

confident in their knowledge when

now participating in the program,

fears about online safety, particularly

library community can develop

“It also empowers staff to be

Bayside City Council Mayor

take up of digital technologies was

and considers how the whole

eSmart Libraries will help build skills, change behaviours and contribute to a greater sense

She said library users trusted the

of wellbeing in the community

library service to provide secure

by facilitating digital inclusion

technology for their personal use

and empowering good

and eSmart Libraries consequently

digital citizenship.

The eSmart Libraries system is helping to make library user safer for young people.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 39

COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA

What’s happening in Local Government Vegetables are child’s play at Benalla Community Care Centre

Zeekray Coyne, Pauline Barnes (Educator), Baiden Guppy, and Sophie Waite learn about planting vegetables at the Community Care Ray Sweeney Centre.

The Benalla Family Day Care service

has been established since last summer,

provides enriching activities for Family

is an initiative of the Council’s Community

Day Care educators and the children

Services staff and includes environmentally

in their care. One of these was in a

friendly initiatives such as wicking garden

practical lesson on healthy food and

beds, and recycled materials for trellises.

sustainability for children in the Family

It is tucked away in a sunny nook within

Day Care Playgroup. The children

the Community Care complex, providing

got the opportunity to get their hands

a space for practical and enjoyable

dirty in the vegetable garden at the

activities for people of all ages, from

Benalla Community Care Ray Sweeney

toddlers at playgroup to adults in the

Centre. The vegetable garden, which

Planned Activity Group.

Baw Baw Shire is on the move Baw Baw Shire Council has undergone

use of phone or email. ‘Seat Bingo’ was

ensure that all staff will be accommodated

some exciting changes with the official

introduced to move staff out of teams

by modern and user friendly offices no

reopening of its Drouin office in early

to seat them with other colleagues as

matter which location they work.

August following extensive renovations.

an opportunity to work together as one

Council decided in March 2014 to refurbish the former Buln Buln Shire

The Drouin office is a state of the art

offices in Drouin to move 85 staff from

building that has been designed to

leased buildings in Warragul.

minimise energy consumption by

The new office is accommodating the

incorporating photovoltaic solar panels,

majority of Council’s office based staff changing the structure of work from three separate locations to one open plan building. The design encourages innovation and collaboration between staff members; to spark conversations face-to-face rather than the traditional

thermal mass including phase change insulation and double glazing. The $3.3 million project was delivered on time and on budget and includes the reinstatement of the Smith Street offices in Warragul and refurbished customer service centre at Civic Place, Warragul. These works

Drouin resident Mr Graeme Grieve checks out the new office. He was the first through the doors when they opened.

Sharing is caring in regional Victoria Northern Grampians Shire Council is trying its hand at a Shared Services Model with pleasing, and sometimes surprising, results.

Council is currently engaged in three different shared services arrangements – providing engineering services (surveying and design) to Hindmarsh and West Wimmera Shire Councils and Environmental Health Services to Ararat Rural City Council.

All three Councils were having difficulties filling the respective roles. In the case of the Environmental Health Officer, a service 40 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

review at Northern Grampians had shown that the position was not completely viable. The sharing of services with Ararat has allowed Northern Grampians to retain their EHO which avoids the consideration of a further restructure or redundancy.

Sharing engineers with Hindmarsh allows Northern Grampians to attract quality engineers by offering them a range of work in different landscapes. Both departments say that the arrangement has also strengthened the relationship between neighbouring Councils and built the skill and knowledge base of their existing staff.

Price is a huge positive for the partnering Councils as Northern Grampians only recovers its costs meaning that the option proves much cheaper than employing a contractor or consultant.

The shared services model may just be the way of the future, particularly for small regional Councils where specialist staff are difficult to attract and retain. The use of expertise from other Councils at affordable costs means municipalities can provide services at realistic costs and still undertake works that benefit their ratepayers.

Hume City Council has been involved in an innovative maintenance blitz called Hume Clean which saw Council officers complete 151 separate maintenance jobs such as cleaning graffiti, fixing broken signs, damaged pit lids and seats and cutting back overhanging branches.

A number of the blitzes began with Council organising free neighbourhood barbecues where residents were invited to meet face-to-face with councillors and Council officers to suggest areas that needed a spruce-up.

Council officers descended on six areas for blitzes that each lasted five days to help improve the appearance of streets, parks and Council buildings.

From left, Stonnington CEO Warren Roberts, Stonnington Mayor Cr Melina Sehr, Boon Wurrung Elder Carolyn Biggs, artist Jonathan Jones and Cr John McMorrow at the unveiling of a new public artwork.

Creating more open space in Stonnington The City of Stonnington has prepared a 20-year plan to address the significant need to create more open space within its municipality.

Currently Stonnington has the second lowest amount of public open space per capita of all Victorian Councils.

unit rather than separate entities.

Hume cleaned up… in a blitz!

Launched in October 2013, Strategies for Creating Open Space is part of a broader, long-term plan that builds on the extensive and continuous work undertaken by Council since 2010.

In February this year, the Stonnington community showed a strong vote of confidence in the strategy in a door-to-door survey of 599 randomly selected houses from 36 statistically representative areas within the municipality.

The survey results confirmed that Council is taking the right steps to create more open space in Stonnington, with 91 per cent of respondents believing it is important for Stonnington to create open space now and into the future.

A range of options are being explored by Council to increase open space including

undergrounding car parks to provide open space and parkland above, promoting and encouraging green roofs and walls, creating new urban green spaces such as small parks, extending existing green spaces, and the placement of a Public Acquisition Overlay (PAO) on properties.

While the concept of PAOs has caused some concern and apprehension within the community, Stonnington has reiterated that it will not be compulsorily acquiring properties. Rather, it will be looking to identify and reserve land should it become available in the future, and is carefully and strategically pursuing open space opportunities by identifying options based on partnerships, negotiations and agreements.

Council has noted that with increased development and population growth, if there is not active pursuit of public open and green space opportunities, Stonnington will become quite a different place.

For more information visit www. stonnington.vic.gov.au/open space

They scrubbed off graffiti at 20 different sites, removed rubbish that had been dumped across 27 locations in parks and along streets, repaired park seats, restored or replaced 34 broken signs, and dealt with damage to 22 pit lids and seven sections of road or kerb.

The Council’s parks crew applied mulch to garden beds, and trimmed and collected branches from trees. They also mowed long grass and removed trip hazards along footpaths and nature strips.

Council officers pinpointed 59 additional tasks to be completed in the future, such as road improvements, tree pruning and new planting. They also issued 192 notices to property owners who had unsightly premises, overhanging branches or landscaping which was not authorised.

Hume Mayor, Cr Adem Atmaca said the comprehensive Hume Clean blitz had made a big difference and he is confident that people will notice the improvements. “We want all residents to have pride in their neighbourhoods and Hume is keen to ensure our streets, parks and Council buildings look clean and well maintained,” he said.

Councillor Alan Bolton, Deputy Mayor of Hume City Council, with Council officers at one of the clean ups.

PROFILE SPRING 2015 | 41

Lynley Dumble and John Gabb Lynley Dumble is Acting Director Community Wellbeing at Maribyrnong City Council and an LGPro Board Member.

i

I started my Local Government career as an Environmental Health Officer before moving into health promotion and health planning roles and then diversifying to roles managing Family and Youth Services and also Community Infrastructure and Social Development.

I have worked at Werribee, Bairnsdale, Kew, Manningham and Maribyrnong Councils.

The last book you read?

The Go-Between by L.P Hartley – a bit of a classic – many of us may have had to read it at school – nice to revisit.

What makes you laugh?

The ABC series “Utopia” – I feel like I’m part of the set some days at work!.

What would your last meal comprise?

Pretty hard to choose, but my absolute favourites would

be a selection of Japanese seafood dishes – finished off with crème brulee.

Three famous people you would like to invite to dinner?

Michael Parkinson, Julia Gillard and Julie Zemiro because Julie and Michael are such great interviewers and I would have a box seat to hear them interview Julia about her warts and all time as Australia’s first female Prime Minister!

Your dream holiday?

Walking one of the (short) pilgrim trails in Spain but making sure the end of each day was in gorgeous boutique accommodation with great food and wine.

What you enjoy most about your job?

I love the variety of what we deal with in Local Government and meeting all the amazing people doing inspiring things in their community.

John Gabb is Executive Manager, Enterprise Portfolio Management Office (EPMO) at the City of Port Phillip

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I came to the Local Government sector 18 months ago with 30 years experience working in projects, originally as a software developer then project manager for a software development company in the 80s’. I soon incorporated organisation change management as projects got more complex and multi-disciplined before becoming a specialist project manager. I spent two years as a consultant in project management for Thomsett International and then took a series of roles as project director for corporate and government before coming to the City of Port Philip to establish their Enterprise Portfolio Management Office.

Your favourite sports to play?

Something about yourself that may surprise people?

What you enjoy outside of work?

I’m a keen golfer.

We run a 130 acre farm in our spare time.

I like my red wine and I try and keep fit… life is all about balance isn’t it?

The most famous person you have met?

Good question… no-one famous yet… although I did meet Stephen Fry’s brother… lovely chap!

42 | PROFILE SPRING 2015

The last book you read?

I love to read and will read just about anything… at the moment I’m reading “A Spy Among Friends”

by Ben Mcintyre, which is about the British Spy Kim Philby.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CALENDAR

Diary Dates

PROGRAMS

PROGRAMS

DATE

INFORMATION

Nominations open on Wednesday 23 September for the 2016 program and close on Friday 30 October

To equip and support senior executives in Local Government

Nominations open on Wednesday 23 September for the 2016 program and close on Friday 30 October

For those who aspire to positions of leadership and to those who aspire to provide leadership in a particular area of interest in Local Government Victoria

Tuesday 27 October, LGPro office

A program to ensure that the importance of good governance is clearly understood by all staff in the sector who are all required to interact with elected councillors

Wednesday 28 October, LGPro office

A program to introduce career thinking and planning skills and concepts to Executive Assistants, administration officers and customer service staff

Friday 16 October, LGPro office

A half day workshop designed to help Local Government use communication technologies such as Facebook and Twitter to better engage with their residents and communities

Thursday 8 October, LGPro office

To support non-finance staff to perform their financial planning and reporting responsibilities

Thursday 29 October, LGPro office Thursday 4 December, LGPro office

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

Wednesday 7 October, CQ Melbourne 113 Queen St, Melbourne

A one day event for all young professionals working in the public sector

Thursday 8 October, Richmond Town Hall

A networking event for LGPro Corporate Partners

Thursday 15 October and Friday 16 October

For CEOs to discuss issues of common interest

EVENTS

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES

CONFERENCES

CONFERENCES/SEMINARS A one day seminar for all Local Government staff working in the areas of aged and disability services

Thursday 22 October, All Seasons Hotel, Bendigo

This one off conference is a collaborative initiative between LGPro’s Corporate Planners Network and the Communications Network SIG

Thursday 25 and Friday 26 February, 2016 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

The theme for the 2016 Annual Conference is: ‘Local Government is a verb’

Online Nominations now open and close on Monday 12 October

Celebrate the excellent work being undertaken in the Local Government sector

AWARDS

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

35831

AWARDS

2016 LGPro Annual Conference

Thursday 15 October, Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre, Preston