Moree Plains Shire Council - Council Focus

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apshot Staff Sn

Maintaining our rural road network

ROSEMARY MCCUDDEN

Library Assistant Rosemary is being supported by Council to study her Certificate IV in Librarianship. She is passionate about the library and thrilled Council supports equal opportunity for staff career and educational choices.

Council’s main priority is raising the funds needed for the maintenance of our rural road network.

EMMA CROFT As a childcare assistant at Gwydir Daycare and Preschool, Emma takes pleasure in watching children grow and learn, knowing she has made an impact in their life. “It’s really lovely that I can tell parents that their child has settled in and show them their children’s work.”

The plan is in place to secure the budget for the sealed road network and our staff are actively making operational savings, so we can meet the budget in two years, as forecast by the Council during the rate rise consultations.

The remainder of the unsealed road network is a problem and we continue to lobby for further funding from State and Federal Governments.

Citizenships...

Recently, I participated in discussions with our Local Member Kevin Humphries on Regional Road funding opportunities announced by the Coalition in the upcoming State election.

I will be working on a submission for funds for upgrading the Mungindi - Boomi Road as part of the Coalition’s proposed program.

Moree’s Australia Day citizens Australia Day celebrations were especially meaningful for nine people within Moree Plains Shire as they were welcomed as our newest Australian citizens on 26 January 2011. Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries welcomed the conferees, originally from three different countries, as new Australian citizens in a special ceremony at Moree Council Chambers.

Moree Plains Shire Council is an active member of the Australian Rural Roads Group (ARRG) and this group is building a case for road funding based on the agricultural productivity of a region, rather than the population.

“Our citizenship is something we should all actively celebrate on Australia Day, whether we are Australian by birth or by choice,” Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries said.

Among the conferees were the de Beer family – George, Elrene, Samuel and Deidre – from Mungindi, who were excited to become Australian citizens.

Early indications suggest the ARRG case with the State and Federal Government has merit and there is strong interest in the model put forward, particularly when presented on the back of the Asset Management work our staff have undertaken.

“The Australian way of living convinced us that we have made the right decision to relocate,” said Mr de Beer.

Mrs de Beer, editor of “Mungindi Matters” newsletter, said Mungindi is “a very friendly and close-knit community with a drive to survive.”

I encourage you to continue to write to our State and Federal Government ministers requesting additional road funding for highly productive areas like ours. Sadly, if we don’t succeed in gaining further funding, the Shire’s ability to supply food and fibre will be severely constrained by the condition of our roads.

South Africans Petrus and Jean-Pierre Van Rooyen love their life on the land near Rowena.

They chose Australia because it is a beautiful country with equal rights and provides good career opportunities.

A large number of fellow Indian countrymen witnessed Moree’s youngest conferee two-and-a-half-year-old Sankamesh Guranathan and his father, Chinnannan, take the Citizenship oath.

“The Moree community welcomes its newest citizens and wishes them well as they take this important and final step to officially join the Australian family,” Mayor Cr Humphries said.

AUTUMN | 2011

WELCOME TO OUR AUTUMN EDITION The most exciting news we have for you is that work has commenced on the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex redevelopment.

The grandstand and children’s play area have been demolished, and the contractors have started work on the installation of the new Olympic pool. For more information on the schedule of works and which facilities will be available for use at various times, please refer to the Project Update section on page 3 of the Council Focus newsletter.

Moree Plains Shire Councillors and staff are currently working on our 2011/12 Budget.

As we did for the 2010/11 Budget, we are focused on spending as much money on roads as we can, while continuing to deliver the other services you’ve told us you want us to provide. The Community Strategic Plan: Moree Plains 2030 is our guide to where the money can best be spent.

Once we have completed the development of the draft Budget, we will make it available for public comment. Please keep your eye out for advertisements requesting public comment on the draft 2011/12 Budget. We will welcome your feedback.

Mayor’s message...

David Aber, General Manager

In our last newsletter we told you about the possibility of a large-scale solar farm being built near Moree. The State Government has issued conditional planning approval for one of the proposed solar projects. The other solar project is still in the public consultation phase.

The Federal Government will be making a decision regarding Flagship funding for solar farm projects in April/May this year. Once that decision is made, we’ll be able to tell you more.

We hope you enjoy this newsletter. If not, please don’t hesitate to tell us why not so we can tailor the newsletter to best suit your needs.

Take a look at the beautiful work of Ashley resident Mrs Bridget Casey flying in Moree’s main street during this year’s Harmony Day celebration.

Mrs Casey entered a design into Council’s 2010 “Design a Flag” competition for International Women’s Day and, while it wasn’t chosen at the time, the beautiful colours and inspirational explanation of the design captured the interest of Council’s Multicultural Festival organisers.

Multicultural Festival organisers approached Mrs Casey to adapt the design to encompass the theme of Harmony Day – Everyone Belongs.

Multicultural Festival Committee Chairman Cr Peter Strang said the flag captured the event’s overarching theme of community participation, inclusiveness and respect.

“It is all about celebrating the different cultures that make Moree, and in fact Australia, a great place to live,” he said.

Mrs Casey is excited to have her artwork immortalised as a flag that will fly in Moree’s main street during the Multicultural Festival. She explains the inspiration behind the design: “My design depicts cloaks and features a multitude of arms. The cloaks represent the many roles we play as we interact with others during the course of our lives, no matter where we live in the world. The bright colours represent the energy we expend fulfilling those roles.

“The different hues of the arms and hands show we come from many cultures. Our limbs are instrumental in creating a new life for ourselves and our families – a place where we feel we can belong. The shapes around the edge of the design represent the people and places where we live, work and play.

PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400 Telephone 02) 6757 3222 council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au

Cr Katrina Humphries, Mayor

“I am happy that my design was chosen for Harmony Day and I am very excited to see it flying in the main street of Moree,” said Mrs Casey.

Spotlight on Youth...

Moree Hot Artesian Pool Redevelopment

COUNCIL PROVIDES SOME FANTASTIC CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND EIGHT TRAINEES HAVE BEEN OFFERED A HEAD START WHILE STILL AT SCHOOL.

We are excited that the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex redevelopment is underway and have developed a construction schedule, so you know what to expect over the next 6 –10 months.

While most Year 11 and 12 students are sitting in class trying to decide what they want to do when they leave school, eight young people are getting valuable, paid experience with Moree Plains Shire Council without sacrificing their studies.

“In addition, apprenticeships and traineeships are a significant part of Council’s Aboriginal Employment Strategy. It is also an opportunity for us to engage Indigenous youth, provide job opportunities, and inspire them to further their educational opportunities and career paths,” she said.

This year, Moree Plains Shire Council offered five School Based Traineeships in the areas of business administration, labouring, warehousing, IT and recreation. They join three existing School Based Trainees who started in 2010 and four local youth currently undertaking apprenticeships and general traineeships with Council.

Each School Based Trainee will combine their school studies with 7 – 8 hours per week of paid employment in their chosen field. They will learn transferable skills such as communication, prioritising and organising, and will gain valuable experience which will give them a competitive edge over their peers when they enter the job market.

Recently, Council hosted a morning tea for the School Based Trainees, general apprentices and trainees to welcome them to the organisation and to present each person with an embroidered shirt identifying them as a Trainee of Moree Plains Shire Council. State Trainers Mr Bede Maher and Mr Mike Davies provided the young people with information on their Rights and Responsibilities at work, while the Australian Apprenticeships Centre ABL representative Ms Pam Hill explained her organisation’s role in supporting Council and the School Based Trainees.

School Based Traineeships provide students with the opportunity to attain a nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training qualification as well as their Higher School Certificate. The students also gain valuable work skills and experience through paid employment, which is slightly different to apprenticeships and general traineeships.

Council’s General Manager David Aber said smart employers are looking to School Based Traineeships to attract and retain quality young employees.

“School Based Traineeships offer employers value for money, flexibility, the opportunity to train staff to business specific needs and, perhaps most importantly, to identify skilled young people for full or part-time employment once they finish their studies. The program also assists with retention of staff and students show much more commitment to their work than young school casuals,” he said.

The construction schedule has been developed with three things in mind.

1. Safety is, of course, our number one priority.

2. Our second priority is the on-time and on-budget completion of the redevelopment project.

3. Our third priority is continued access to facilities for our patrons; every effort has been made to ensure that you will have access to at least part of the pool complex while the redevelopment is in progress.

Please note that the dates listed in the schedule are provided as a guide only. Construction schedules are subject to change due to poor weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances. However, we will do our best to keep you informed of any schedule changes as soon as they arise.

Construction schedule Time

Area /Event

Details

14 March 2011 Olympic Pool

Decommissioned – this is required for the safety of patrons and to enable us to deliver a brand new FINA standard Olympic pool and other outdoor pools by mid September.

We will be left with the two spa pools. We plan to maintain Spa 1 (the spa on the western side) at 40˚C and cool Spa 2 (the spa on the eastern side) down to 30˚C–34˚C to provide a cool pool option.

May 2011 Spa 2 (the spa on the eastern side)

Decommissioned – no further public access after Easter.

We will be left with Spa 1 (western side) which we will maintain with pure Artesian water at 40˚C.

Three existing School Based Trainees continue their Traineeship from 2010/11 – Brandon Baker (Customer Service Officer) Jacob Haywood (School Based Apprentice – Automotive) and Thomas Sharples (Library Assistant). They join Council’s 2011/12 School Based Trainees – Jonathen Squires (IT Officer), Brooke McGrady (Business Administration Officer), Evan Coombes (Warehousing and Distribution Officer), Tyson Perkins (Community Recreation Officer) and Joshua Cowan (General Labourer).

Two weeks in August 2011 Complete closure

The entire complex will be closed for safety reasons. The complex is normally closed for 10 days at the end of July, so this year’s closure will just be a bit later. Although the exact date of the closure is to be confirmed, it will probably be towards the end of August. Spa 1 (western side) will be decommissioned.

End of August 2011

Existing Olympic Pool space

Outdoor hot artesian pools, program pool, children’s Hidroplay area, gymnasium and new amenities will be available for use.

Mid September 2011

New Olympic Pool

Eight lane FINA standard Olympic Pool with disabled access will be available for use by patrons.

Long weekend in October

Opening Celebration

A small-scale opening celebration.

In addition to the School Based Trainees, Council also employs four staff who are already undertaking apprenticeships and general traineeships with Council; Lisa Ivanov (2 year Trainee – Library and Information Services), Jon Bess (Final year Apprentice – Mechanic), Nathan McGrady (Trainee – Plant Operator) and Anthony Johnson (Trainee – Engineer).

Mid December 2011

Wellness Centre

Works completed. The spa pool will be available but treatments may not be available until after Christmas.

Australia Day 2012

Grand Opening

Grand Opening Celebrations – project completed and all facilities functional.

School Based Traineeships are available to Grade 11 and 12 students, and in most cases – the Trainees can work one school day per week as well as school holidays. Arrangements are flexible to suit the requirements of the trainee, the workplace and the school. However, students must complete a minimum number of days of paid employment each year.

Council’s Human Resources Manager Debby Baxter-Tomkins is a huge supporter of School Based Traineeships in Local Government.

“The employability skills that the students gain from Local Government are valuable no matter where their eventual career may take them. The traineeship gives the students direction, maturity and a much stronger focus on their school work as well as counting towards the NSW Higher School Certificate.

Project .

Update..

Brooke McGrady

How can you monitor the progress of the redevelopment project?

To monitor the progress of the redevelopment and to keep-up-to date with timetable changes, The Dhiiyaan Unit has accepted two you have a number of options. You can: paintings donated by local artists through 1. Check the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex notice board, which is located in the the Beyond Empathy painting placements. reception area of the pool The untitled works by Ellen Draper, May Hinch, Ian Marr and Joy 2. Visit our website www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au Duncan are part of a collection of twelve paintings donated under the 3. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Moree PlainsShireCouncil ‘6x6’ Artists Connecting Community Moree Project.

4. Register for our email updates by sending your email address to council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au The Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit’s Library Assistants Ms Tracey Towney and Ms Kelly 5. Contact Aquatics Manager Julie Rushby at the Moree Hot Briggs – who operate the Indigenous Unit three days per week – took possession of Artesian Pool Complex on (02) 6757 3450. the artworks at the Beyond Empathy handover ceremony on 3 March 2011.

We would like to acknowledge the $3 million provided towards the redevelopment by the Federal Government under its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

“It is exciting that the Indigenous Unit was donated such beautiful artwork by the local artists,” said Ms Kelly Briggs.

Moree Plains Shire Council General Manager David Aber welcomed the donation, saying: “Material and resources held by the Indigenous Unit are available to all members of the community and I hope that in the near future Council will establish a cultural centre befitting the unique collection that has been donated over time and accumulated at the Unit.”

The paintings add to the Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit’s collection of genealogies, photographs and resources. Not only does the collection assist in the preservation of Aboriginal culture, it is also used to research and develop family trees.

Ms Towney said the Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit aims to document, preserve and protect Aboriginal information and objects of significant importance to present and future generations of Aboriginal people.

The Indigenous Unit was established in 1995 as part of the Northern Regional Library and Information Service.

as Sharples, Anthony a Cowan, Nathan McGrady, Thom Coombes, Left to Right – Standing: Joshu – Sitting – Jacob Hayward, Evan res Squi then Joha and r, Bake Johnson, Brandon Bess.

Jon and ov Ivan Tyson Perkins, Lisa ves an embroidered shirt munity Recreation Officer) recei Reeves Image Above: Tyson Perkins (Com Council from HR Officer Kellie Shire s Plain ee Mor of ee Train a identifying him as

“It’s the first family history and photograph unit of its kind in Australia,” said Ms Briggs.

Joshua Cowan (General Labourer) is welcomed to the organisation by HR Manager Debby Baxter-Tomkins Top of page: State Trainer, Mr Bede Maher and Mr Mike Davies provided the young people with information on their Rights and Responsibilities at work

The Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am – 12.30pm, with telephone enquiries taken until 5pm on the same days.

David Aber, Kelly Briggs, Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries and Tracey Towney proudly display the donated works

Spotlight on Youth...

Moree Hot Artesian Pool Redevelopment

COUNCIL PROVIDES SOME FANTASTIC CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND EIGHT TRAINEES HAVE BEEN OFFERED A HEAD START WHILE STILL AT SCHOOL.

We are excited that the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex redevelopment is underway and have developed a construction schedule, so you know what to expect over the next 6 –10 months.

While most Year 11 and 12 students are sitting in class trying to decide what they want to do when they leave school, eight young people are getting valuable, paid experience with Moree Plains Shire Council without sacrificing their studies.

“In addition, apprenticeships and traineeships are a significant part of Council’s Aboriginal Employment Strategy. It is also an opportunity for us to engage Indigenous youth, provide job opportunities, and inspire them to further their educational opportunities and career paths,” she said.

This year, Moree Plains Shire Council offered five School Based Traineeships in the areas of business administration, labouring, warehousing, IT and recreation. They join three existing School Based Trainees who started in 2010 and four local youth currently undertaking apprenticeships and general traineeships with Council.

Each School Based Trainee will combine their school studies with 7 – 8 hours per week of paid employment in their chosen field. They will learn transferable skills such as communication, prioritising and organising, and will gain valuable experience which will give them a competitive edge over their peers when they enter the job market.

Recently, Council hosted a morning tea for the School Based Trainees, general apprentices and trainees to welcome them to the organisation and to present each person with an embroidered shirt identifying them as a Trainee of Moree Plains Shire Council. State Trainers Mr Bede Maher and Mr Mike Davies provided the young people with information on their Rights and Responsibilities at work, while the Australian Apprenticeships Centre ABL representative Ms Pam Hill explained her organisation’s role in supporting Council and the School Based Trainees.

School Based Traineeships provide students with the opportunity to attain a nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training qualification as well as their Higher School Certificate. The students also gain valuable work skills and experience through paid employment, which is slightly different to apprenticeships and general traineeships.

Council’s General Manager David Aber said smart employers are looking to School Based Traineeships to attract and retain quality young employees.

“School Based Traineeships offer employers value for money, flexibility, the opportunity to train staff to business specific needs and, perhaps most importantly, to identify skilled young people for full or part-time employment once they finish their studies. The program also assists with retention of staff and students show much more commitment to their work than young school casuals,” he said.

The construction schedule has been developed with three things in mind.

1. Safety is, of course, our number one priority.

2. Our second priority is the on-time and on-budget completion of the redevelopment project.

3. Our third priority is continued access to facilities for our patrons; every effort has been made to ensure that you will have access to at least part of the pool complex while the redevelopment is in progress.

Please note that the dates listed in the schedule are provided as a guide only. Construction schedules are subject to change due to poor weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances. However, we will do our best to keep you informed of any schedule changes as soon as they arise.

Construction schedule Time

Area /Event

Details

14 March 2011 Olympic Pool

Decommissioned – this is required for the safety of patrons and to enable us to deliver a brand new FINA standard Olympic pool and other outdoor pools by mid September.

We will be left with the two spa pools. We plan to maintain Spa 1 (the spa on the western side) at 40˚C and cool Spa 2 (the spa on the eastern side) down to 30˚C–34˚C to provide a cool pool option.

May 2011 Spa 2 (the spa on the eastern side)

Decommissioned – no further public access after Easter.

We will be left with Spa 1 (western side) which we will maintain with pure Artesian water at 40˚C.

Three existing School Based Trainees continue their Traineeship from 2010/11 – Brandon Baker (Customer Service Officer) Jacob Haywood (School Based Apprentice – Automotive) and Thomas Sharples (Library Assistant). They join Council’s 2011/12 School Based Trainees – Jonathen Squires (IT Officer), Brooke McGrady (Business Administration Officer), Evan Coombes (Warehousing and Distribution Officer), Tyson Perkins (Community Recreation Officer) and Joshua Cowan (General Labourer).

Two weeks in August 2011 Complete closure

The entire complex will be closed for safety reasons. The complex is normally closed for 10 days at the end of July, so this year’s closure will just be a bit later. Although the exact date of the closure is to be confirmed, it will probably be towards the end of August. Spa 1 (western side) will be decommissioned.

End of August 2011

Existing Olympic Pool space

Outdoor hot artesian pools, program pool, children’s Hidroplay area, gymnasium and new amenities will be available for use.

Mid September 2011

New Olympic Pool

Eight lane FINA standard Olympic Pool with disabled access will be available for use by patrons.

Long weekend in October

Opening Celebration

A small-scale opening celebration.

In addition to the School Based Trainees, Council also employs four staff who are already undertaking apprenticeships and general traineeships with Council; Lisa Ivanov (2 year Trainee – Library and Information Services), Jon Bess (Final year Apprentice – Mechanic), Nathan McGrady (Trainee – Plant Operator) and Anthony Johnson (Trainee – Engineer).

Mid December 2011

Wellness Centre

Works completed. The spa pool will be available but treatments may not be available until after Christmas.

Australia Day 2012

Grand Opening

Grand Opening Celebrations – project completed and all facilities functional.

School Based Traineeships are available to Grade 11 and 12 students, and in most cases – the Trainees can work one school day per week as well as school holidays. Arrangements are flexible to suit the requirements of the trainee, the workplace and the school. However, students must complete a minimum number of days of paid employment each year.

Council’s Human Resources Manager Debby Baxter-Tomkins is a huge supporter of School Based Traineeships in Local Government.

“The employability skills that the students gain from Local Government are valuable no matter where their eventual career may take them. The traineeship gives the students direction, maturity and a much stronger focus on their school work as well as counting towards the NSW Higher School Certificate.

Project .

Update..

Brooke McGrady

How can you monitor the progress of the redevelopment project?

To monitor the progress of the redevelopment and to keep-up-to date with timetable changes, The Dhiiyaan Unit has accepted two you have a number of options. You can: paintings donated by local artists through 1. Check the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex notice board, which is located in the the Beyond Empathy painting placements. reception area of the pool The untitled works by Ellen Draper, May Hinch, Ian Marr and Joy 2. Visit our website www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au Duncan are part of a collection of twelve paintings donated under the 3. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Moree PlainsShireCouncil ‘6x6’ Artists Connecting Community Moree Project.

4. Register for our email updates by sending your email address to council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au The Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit’s Library Assistants Ms Tracey Towney and Ms Kelly 5. Contact Aquatics Manager Julie Rushby at the Moree Hot Briggs – who operate the Indigenous Unit three days per week – took possession of Artesian Pool Complex on (02) 6757 3450. the artworks at the Beyond Empathy handover ceremony on 3 March 2011.

We would like to acknowledge the $3 million provided towards the redevelopment by the Federal Government under its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

“It is exciting that the Indigenous Unit was donated such beautiful artwork by the local artists,” said Ms Kelly Briggs.

Moree Plains Shire Council General Manager David Aber welcomed the donation, saying: “Material and resources held by the Indigenous Unit are available to all members of the community and I hope that in the near future Council will establish a cultural centre befitting the unique collection that has been donated over time and accumulated at the Unit.”

The paintings add to the Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit’s collection of genealogies, photographs and resources. Not only does the collection assist in the preservation of Aboriginal culture, it is also used to research and develop family trees.

Ms Towney said the Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit aims to document, preserve and protect Aboriginal information and objects of significant importance to present and future generations of Aboriginal people.

The Indigenous Unit was established in 1995 as part of the Northern Regional Library and Information Service.

as Sharples, Anthony a Cowan, Nathan McGrady, Thom Coombes, Left to Right – Standing: Joshu – Sitting – Jacob Hayward, Evan res Squi then Joha and r, Bake Johnson, Brandon Bess.

Jon and ov Ivan Tyson Perkins, Lisa ves an embroidered shirt munity Recreation Officer) recei Reeves Image Above: Tyson Perkins (Com Council from HR Officer Kellie Shire s Plain ee Mor of ee Train a identifying him as

“It’s the first family history and photograph unit of its kind in Australia,” said Ms Briggs.

Joshua Cowan (General Labourer) is welcomed to the organisation by HR Manager Debby Baxter-Tomkins Top of page: State Trainer, Mr Bede Maher and Mr Mike Davies provided the young people with information on their Rights and Responsibilities at work

The Dhiiyaan Indigenous Unit is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am – 12.30pm, with telephone enquiries taken until 5pm on the same days.

David Aber, Kelly Briggs, Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries and Tracey Towney proudly display the donated works

s...

apshot Staff Sn

Maintaining our rural road network

ROSEMARY MCCUDDEN

Library Assistant Rosemary is being supported by Council to study her Certificate IV in Librarianship. She is passionate about the library and thrilled Council supports equal opportunity for staff career and educational choices.

Council’s main priority is raising the funds needed for the maintenance of our rural road network.

EMMA CROFT As a childcare assistant at Gwydir Daycare and Preschool, Emma takes pleasure in watching children grow and learn, knowing she has made an impact in their life. “It’s really lovely that I can tell parents that their child has settled in and show them their children’s work.”

The plan is in place to secure the budget for the sealed road network and our staff are actively making operational savings, so we can meet the budget in two years, as forecast by the Council during the rate rise consultations.

The remainder of the unsealed road network is a problem and we continue to lobby for further funding from State and Federal Governments.

Citizenships...

Recently, I participated in discussions with our Local Member Kevin Humphries on Regional Road funding opportunities announced by the Coalition in the upcoming State election.

I will be working on a submission for funds for upgrading the Mungindi - Boomi Road as part of the Coalition’s proposed program.

Moree’s Australia Day citizens Australia Day celebrations were especially meaningful for nine people within Moree Plains Shire as they were welcomed as our newest Australian citizens on 26 January 2011. Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries welcomed the conferees, originally from three different countries, as new Australian citizens in a special ceremony at Moree Council Chambers.

Moree Plains Shire Council is an active member of the Australian Rural Roads Group (ARRG) and this group is building a case for road funding based on the agricultural productivity of a region, rather than the population.

“Our citizenship is something we should all actively celebrate on Australia Day, whether we are Australian by birth or by choice,” Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries said.

Among the conferees were the de Beer family – George, Elrene, Samuel and Deidre – from Mungindi, who were excited to become Australian citizens.

Early indications suggest the ARRG case with the State and Federal Government has merit and there is strong interest in the model put forward, particularly when presented on the back of the Asset Management work our staff have undertaken.

“The Australian way of living convinced us that we have made the right decision to relocate,” said Mr de Beer.

Mrs de Beer, editor of “Mungindi Matters” newsletter, said Mungindi is “a very friendly and close-knit community with a drive to survive.”

I encourage you to continue to write to our State and Federal Government ministers requesting additional road funding for highly productive areas like ours. Sadly, if we don’t succeed in gaining further funding, the Shire’s ability to supply food and fibre will be severely constrained by the condition of our roads.

South Africans Petrus and Jean-Pierre Van Rooyen love their life on the land near Rowena.

They chose Australia because it is a beautiful country with equal rights and provides good career opportunities.

A large number of fellow Indian countrymen witnessed Moree’s youngest conferee two-and-a-half-year-old Sankamesh Guranathan and his father, Chinnannan, take the Citizenship oath.

“The Moree community welcomes its newest citizens and wishes them well as they take this important and final step to officially join the Australian family,” Mayor Cr Humphries said.

AUTUMN | 2011

WELCOME TO OUR AUTUMN EDITION The most exciting news we have for you is that work has commenced on the Moree Hot Artesian Pool Complex redevelopment.

The grandstand and children’s play area have been demolished, and the contractors have started work on the installation of the new Olympic pool. For more information on the schedule of works and which facilities will be available for use at various times, please refer to the Project Update section on page 3 of the Council Focus newsletter.

Moree Plains Shire Councillors and staff are currently working on our 2011/12 Budget.

As we did for the 2010/11 Budget, we are focused on spending as much money on roads as we can, while continuing to deliver the other services you’ve told us you want us to provide. The Community Strategic Plan: Moree Plains 2030 is our guide to where the money can best be spent.

Once we have completed the development of the draft Budget, we will make it available for public comment. Please keep your eye out for advertisements requesting public comment on the draft 2011/12 Budget. We will welcome your feedback.

Mayor’s message...

David Aber, General Manager

In our last newsletter we told you about the possibility of a large-scale solar farm being built near Moree. The State Government has issued conditional planning approval for one of the proposed solar projects. The other solar project is still in the public consultation phase.

The Federal Government will be making a decision regarding Flagship funding for solar farm projects in April/May this year. Once that decision is made, we’ll be able to tell you more.

We hope you enjoy this newsletter. If not, please don’t hesitate to tell us why not so we can tailor the newsletter to best suit your needs.

Take a look at the beautiful work of Ashley resident Mrs Bridget Casey flying in Moree’s main street during this year’s Harmony Day celebration.

Mrs Casey entered a design into Council’s 2010 “Design a Flag” competition for International Women’s Day and, while it wasn’t chosen at the time, the beautiful colours and inspirational explanation of the design captured the interest of Council’s Multicultural Festival organisers.

Multicultural Festival organisers approached Mrs Casey to adapt the design to encompass the theme of Harmony Day – Everyone Belongs.

Multicultural Festival Committee Chairman Cr Peter Strang said the flag captured the event’s overarching theme of community participation, inclusiveness and respect.

“It is all about celebrating the different cultures that make Moree, and in fact Australia, a great place to live,” he said.

Mrs Casey is excited to have her artwork immortalised as a flag that will fly in Moree’s main street during the Multicultural Festival. She explains the inspiration behind the design: “My design depicts cloaks and features a multitude of arms. The cloaks represent the many roles we play as we interact with others during the course of our lives, no matter where we live in the world. The bright colours represent the energy we expend fulfilling those roles.

“The different hues of the arms and hands show we come from many cultures. Our limbs are instrumental in creating a new life for ourselves and our families – a place where we feel we can belong. The shapes around the edge of the design represent the people and places where we live, work and play.

PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400 Telephone 02) 6757 3222 council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au

Cr Katrina Humphries, Mayor

“I am happy that my design was chosen for Harmony Day and I am very excited to see it flying in the main street of Moree,” said Mrs Casey.

Inaugural Awards – Excellence in Service Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries presented the inaugural Moree Plains Shire Excellence in Service Staff Awards, saying the award recipients were being acknowledged for devotion to service to their colleagues and community, initiative, performance and/or input into continuous workplace improvement.

Lisa Slater, Catherine Davis and William Fitzgerald from Communications; Libby Carter from Executive; Noeline Atterbury from Human Resources; Jeremy James from Parks and Opens Spaces and Kerry Macey from the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre were all honoured during 17 December 2011 ceremony at the Max Centre, Moree.

The Awards have been introduced across Council to recognise individual staff members and teams who have made an outstanding contribution to the organisation, for innovation to improve Council’s operations, and/or dedication and service to the community.

Records Coordinator Lisa Slater received the Internal Customer Service Award.

She was nominated by her peers for providing outstanding internal customer service.

“Lisa has been a devoted employee of Council for more than 20 years, and has maintained a very high standard of service which her peers appreciate,” said the Mayor.

IT Systems Administrator William Fitzgerald was presented with the runner-up certificate for the Internal Customer Service Award.

Communications Officer Catherine Davis was awarded the External Customer Service Award. She was nominated by members of the public for providing excellent customer service.

“Catherine has been an employee of Council for over 15 years and recently made an internal career shift from Executive Department to Communications.

Catherine has flourished in the new role, facing new challenges with enthusiasm,” Mayor, Cr Katrina Humphries said.

Return to Work and OHS Officer Noeline Atterbury was awarded the System Improvement Award. This award was based on process development, which has lead to organisational improvement and cost savings.

AUTUMN | 2012

Mayor, Cr Humphries said that Noeline facilitated improvements in the area of Injury Management and Return to Work, working with employees across Council to reduce the incidence, severity, processing and time lost from workplace injuries.

“Council has made significant savings in our Workers Compensation Premium and benefitted from an increase in healthy, productive work hours,” Cr Humphries said.

Lisa, Catherine and Noeline all received $1000 worth of professional development funded by Council.

The following staff received the most nominations from their peers for regularly representing themselves in a manner that reflects a high standard of professionalism. They were presented with Professional Presentation Awards: • • • •

IT Systems Administrator William Fitzgerald Executive Assistant to the General Manager Libby Carter Parks and Open Spaces Ganger Jeremy James Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) Duty Manager Kerry Macey.

William, Libby, Jeremy and Kerry earn a $50 gift voucher from Moree businesses to put towards their health and wellbeing, grooming, clothing or relaxation expenses to help them to continue to provide high standards to their colleagues and the community.

“The public nominations for Catherine consistently commented on a lady who goes above and beyond, who is vibrant, friendly and for whom nothing is too much trouble. Catherine is clearly leading the way, showing us all what the community appreciate when it comes to service delivery,” she said.

The following teams were nominated by their peers for providing excellent internal customer service: • • • •

Workshop (Engineering) Front Counter/Customer Service Accounts Payable Human Resources.

In concluding the ceremony, Cr Humphries said she encouraged all staff to strive to deliver the best they could in their individual roles and congratulated staff in recognising the great work their colleagues do.

Mayor’s message...

With two floods in 2011 and another one to start this year off, let’s hope Mother Nature has no further events in store for us, as we continue through 2012!

There are some exciting things to look forward to in the coming year.

The Sesquicentenary Committee have been gearing up for the celebration of the year in April, with the opening of the centenary time capsule and placement of the Sesqui capsule, vintage train rides, sporting events, community group displays, entertainment at the Markets, street parties and lots more. If you have a look around the Moree CBD, you’ll see the Sesqui street flags, posters and brochures. There’s also information on the Sesquicentenary on Council’s website.

The Official Opening of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) and the Healing Waters Festival, which have been scheduled to coincide with the Sesqui celebrations, also promise to be enjoyable events for the whole family.

Smart Property Investment’s inaugural Fast 50 Report has listed Moree as one of the best investment locations in the country. Growing resources activity throughout the region as well as strong agriculture and tourism underpins price growth in the local market in 2012 and beyond, according to the report.

Already the town has felt the impact of some major developments with a swell of people wanting rental accommodation.

Council will be moving to the Max Centre in 2012. At this stage we’re on track to complete the internal set-up of the offices in mid March. The move will take place during April. We’re currently working on the logistics of the move, trying to ensure the least possible impact on the delivery of our services.

2011/2012 Flood Events Feedback

The February 2012 flood event was the biggest flood event Moree Plains Shire has experienced since 1976 (bar the November 2011 flood).

I know parts of the Shire recovered well, but many other areas are still experiencing the after affects of the flood. Our road assets have been particularly impacted: it will take some time for us to repair the roads and the cost of the repairs will run into millions of dollars.

As a community, we need to learn from our experiences in the lead-up to the flood, the flood event, and the aftermath of the flood.

We have already received a range of comments from residents regarding the Shire’s flood event for 2011 and we’d like more. What did we do right? What did we do wrong? And what should be done differently next time?

Please post your comments online at www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil, or write to us by sending us a fax (02) 6752 3934, mail (PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400) or email (council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au).

Although the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is responsible for dealing with floods in New South Wales, Council and other agencies play a support role. Council is also responsible for the recovery after the flood.

Cr Katrina Humphries, Mayor From top to bottom: Noeline Atterbury, Group (Kerry, Jeremy, William and Libby), Lisa Slater, Willaim Fitzgerald and Catherine Davis.

PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400 Telephone 02) 6757 3222 council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au

www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil

Flooded street signs (image supplied by Kristy Edmond).

Your feedback will be shared with all relevant organisations.

Top image: Roads closed during the floods, 2011. Bottom image: Roads closed during the floods, early 2012 (Image supplied by Erin O’Sullivan).

Our Community Spirit

Summer Fun Two new hot artesian pools, the program pool and the children’s hidroplay area at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) were opened to the public just before Christmas.

During the November 2011 and February 2012 floods, Council’s Facebook page was one of the primary communication links.

Here are just some of the great comments that were posted: *MPSC – Moree Plains Shire Council Brenda Carrigan

Maree Weier We have been stranded (except for a couple of trips off farm - aided with a tractor) since late November. We are very thankful that these floods haven’t damaged our home so far - BUT... we will still be isolated for many many weeks yet, with kids unable to get to school. There are many families that have been and are still affected in this way on properties. Keep these families in your thoughts and prayers!

I wonder whether you may be able to pass on to council staff just how impressed I am with how the entire council worked together so effectively during the flood.

I know the hours were long for many. The web page, phones, council outside staff were all fabulous as I imagine were all those staff operating behind the scenes. Those working on the sand bags, roads, paths, barricades etc were fantastic and always had a smile despite the long hours. Congratulations to all.

I really noticed the wonderful effort.

A big thank you to Katrina Humphries, the SES and volunteers for getting supplies to Ashley. Also thank you to Ashley residents for their help delivering the supplies.

Robert Casey

Leisa Mark McKnight

Living in Melbourne, with family and friends in Moree and Ashley, it’s great to be able to keep up to date with what’s going on, and I have to say what a fantastic job council is doing with this page. It’s such a simple and incredibly effective way to reach a large audience with useful up to date information.

Well done.

Would like to thank Chris and the Salvation Army for all there wonderful effort at the evacuation centre, and also all the volunteers who donated their time and their cooking skills to feed all the people of Moree and surrounding villages. Also a big thank you to two ladies who were also evacuated and were from Darwin and Gladstone who donated there time and there smiles to help there also.

Venus Boutique

Vicki Marsh

Thanks to Katrina Humphries and all at MPSC for their info on this great page

Big thanks to Garah SES doing the supply run…much needed.

A special thank you to the SES for sand bagging the front of Venus Boutique.

Moree is a great town with wonderful community spirited people. God Bless and stay safe. Thinking of you all Brooke and Mary Paul Rowe Great job on all updates ‘n help at hand from every one especially SES, RTA, road block workers, cargo plane with supplies, helicopters for rescues, fireys and all who help doing the sand bags. Keep up good work. You all need good pat on the back! Once again, great job by all.

Sarah Wilde Would like to thank all the Moree Council staff for a wonderful job of keeping this page as up 2 date as possible. Thank you 2 all the SES volunteers for their hard work helping all those people who need it. Thank you 2 all the bush fire brigade volunteers for all their hard work as well. A very BIG THANK YOU 2 the crew at Now FM & 2VM for keeping us informed as much as they can.

Thank you very much 2 everyone who has taken time 2 help other people anyone that needed help we have a very good community when we band 2gether. Best wishes, be safe. God bless everyone.

Candy Lee Anderson I would just also like to mention the hard work put in by the staff at the Salvation Army feeding everyone at the PCYC. I live near the PCYC and have been volunteering for them yesterday and today! With limited resources they have done an extremely exceptional job and we have not stopped for two days flat!

So, THANK YOU for giving me the opportunity to help and for all your hard work Heather Mooney A big thankyou to whoever is behind this page, you are doing an amazing job.

We are away from home and are naturally concerned about the devastation that is happening in Moree but with your updates and information we have been kept informed of the latest happenings. Congratulations and keep up the good work.

Susan Coventry

Sonia Peter Hobday On behalf of the Yarraman residents I would like to thank all the RFS and SES crews for their assistance in Yarraman over the last two days. Most residents were devastated by the height and force of this flood with levels that exceeded the 1976 levels but with your wonderful assistance we are getting a little normality back into our lives. Once again, thank you so very much.

Sarah Wells From the Wells Family Bendygleet Rd we are thankful for your offer today.

We’d really like to thank you for all the hard work put in the last few days helping the community out in this terrible time.

Melissa Salis I would like to say a big thanks to the RFS they came out to Yarraman today and hosed out my son and sister’s house and did in ten minutes, what took four people all day. So you saved us lots of hard back-breaking work. And also thank you to the SES guys who help empty full houses of damaged furniture to the road side for collection.

Anna Cartwright Ok so have waited until now to leave a comment have seen lots of footage, photos etc. Well done to a community for uniting together to get the job done.

Well done to Katrina for telling the story with no bull attached and getting Qantas to do what they did. I don’t live in Moree anymore but most of my family still does and it was a nail biting time watching and hearing everything unfold.

Your page, along with Now FM and the Moree Champion, did a great and somewhat patient job of keeping everyone informed. I hope you all dry out and recover from this.

Faces behind www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil Rebel Woodham, Kelly James, Kerrie-Anne Hare, Catherine Davis, Lisa Hancock-Zellers and Moreen Plains

Sporting a new name, the MAAC has already exceeded predicted daily entrance figures, with the young and the young-at-heart taking advantage of the summer temperatures to splash around and enjoy the new facility.

The remainder of the Complex is still under redevelopment with attention being turned to the construction and fitout phase of the Wellness Centre, Conference and Gym facilities. The much anticipated water slide will be installed during 2012. Council will also improve the frontages of the Complex along Gwydir, Anne and Warialda Streets through design and construction for a more appealing streetscape and better parking facilities.

Operation and Management Recently, Council discussed the preferred model for the operation and management of the MAAC. The Council considered all the options presented and adopted the company limited by guarantee model as the preferred management model, on the basis that this model appears to provide better outcomes for the community and the MAAC into the future.

Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries said the company limited by guarantee model offers increased flexibility in the operation of the Centre.

“The flexibility offered by the company model will be of benefit when we’re trying to offer a broader range of services and significantly increase the number of patrons of the Centre,” she said.

“Community pools traditionally cost Councils a considerable amount of money to operate.

“While we want to continue to provide the local community with a great swimming pool experience at a reasonable cost, we also want to take a more commercial approach to some of the other services and facilities on offer, and the current management structure restricts our ability to do that,” she said.

The Mayor said she wanted to reassure people that the company limited guarantee model does not mean that the MAAC is being privatised.

“The community has put too much money into this Centre for us to be considering privatisation,” she said.

“We anticipate that under the company model the MAAC will operate in a similar fashion to Moree Tourism and the Moree Plains Gallery: a board made up of Council and community members will oversee the operation of the Centre.”

Although the Council has adopted a preferred model, the final management structure is not ‘set in stone’: stakeholders will be consulted and investigations into the pros and cons of the preferred option will continue.

Welcoming our new Citizens

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship was very excited that Moree Plains Shire Council and St Philomena’s School partnered to host the very first Australian Citizenship Ceremony ever held at a school in NSW.

This ceremony marked a very special moment for South African’s Hein and Deborah van Kralingen and their children Gregory and Nicole Keller and Roxanne, Hyrum and Kyron van Kralingen, who became Australian citizens on 15 November 2011.

The initiative gave students a unique opportunity to learn about the values, rights and responsibilities of Australian citizenship as well as welcome the new citizens.

St Philomena’s School Principal, Karen Jagers, said the school was honoured to be recognised for its leadership in giving the primary school and lower high school pupils a first hand insight into the meaning and value of citizenship.

Moree Mayor, Katrina Humphries, said the Moree community had embraced cultural diversity and the school-based citizenship ceremony was a great example of the local community accepting new citizens from different parts of the world.

Australian citizenship is much more than a legal status. It requires an understanding and appreciation of how our society functions, the democratic principles underpinning our community, an understanding of the place of government and how we, as responsible citizens, can fully participate and contribute to Australian society.

Left to Right: General Manager David Aber, Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries, new citizens – Hyrum, Deborah and Kyron van Kralingen, Nicole Keller, Hein and Roxanne van Kralingen and Gregory Keller, Principal Karen Jagers, Will Haddad, Ben Clark, (seated) Bernadette Quirk and Abbey Downes.

Our Community Spirit

Summer Fun Two new hot artesian pools, the program pool and the children’s hidroplay area at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) were opened to the public just before Christmas.

During the November 2011 and February 2012 floods, Council’s Facebook page was one of the primary communication links.

Here are just some of the great comments that were posted: *MPSC – Moree Plains Shire Council Brenda Carrigan

Maree Weier We have been stranded (except for a couple of trips off farm - aided with a tractor) since late November. We are very thankful that these floods haven’t damaged our home so far - BUT... we will still be isolated for many many weeks yet, with kids unable to get to school. There are many families that have been and are still affected in this way on properties. Keep these families in your thoughts and prayers!

I wonder whether you may be able to pass on to council staff just how impressed I am with how the entire council worked together so effectively during the flood.

I know the hours were long for many. The web page, phones, council outside staff were all fabulous as I imagine were all those staff operating behind the scenes. Those working on the sand bags, roads, paths, barricades etc were fantastic and always had a smile despite the long hours. Congratulations to all.

I really noticed the wonderful effort.

A big thank you to Katrina Humphries, the SES and volunteers for getting supplies to Ashley. Also thank you to Ashley residents for their help delivering the supplies.

Robert Casey

Leisa Mark McKnight

Living in Melbourne, with family and friends in Moree and Ashley, it’s great to be able to keep up to date with what’s going on, and I have to say what a fantastic job council is doing with this page. It’s such a simple and incredibly effective way to reach a large audience with useful up to date information.

Well done.

Would like to thank Chris and the Salvation Army for all there wonderful effort at the evacuation centre, and also all the volunteers who donated their time and their cooking skills to feed all the people of Moree and surrounding villages. Also a big thank you to two ladies who were also evacuated and were from Darwin and Gladstone who donated there time and there smiles to help there also.

Venus Boutique

Vicki Marsh

Thanks to Katrina Humphries and all at MPSC for their info on this great page

Big thanks to Garah SES doing the supply run…much needed.

A special thank you to the SES for sand bagging the front of Venus Boutique.

Moree is a great town with wonderful community spirited people. God Bless and stay safe. Thinking of you all Brooke and Mary Paul Rowe Great job on all updates ‘n help at hand from every one especially SES, RTA, road block workers, cargo plane with supplies, helicopters for rescues, fireys and all who help doing the sand bags. Keep up good work. You all need good pat on the back! Once again, great job by all.

Sarah Wilde Would like to thank all the Moree Council staff for a wonderful job of keeping this page as up 2 date as possible. Thank you 2 all the SES volunteers for their hard work helping all those people who need it. Thank you 2 all the bush fire brigade volunteers for all their hard work as well. A very BIG THANK YOU 2 the crew at Now FM & 2VM for keeping us informed as much as they can.

Thank you very much 2 everyone who has taken time 2 help other people anyone that needed help we have a very good community when we band 2gether. Best wishes, be safe. God bless everyone.

Candy Lee Anderson I would just also like to mention the hard work put in by the staff at the Salvation Army feeding everyone at the PCYC. I live near the PCYC and have been volunteering for them yesterday and today! With limited resources they have done an extremely exceptional job and we have not stopped for two days flat!

So, THANK YOU for giving me the opportunity to help and for all your hard work Heather Mooney A big thankyou to whoever is behind this page, you are doing an amazing job.

We are away from home and are naturally concerned about the devastation that is happening in Moree but with your updates and information we have been kept informed of the latest happenings. Congratulations and keep up the good work.

Susan Coventry

Sonia Peter Hobday On behalf of the Yarraman residents I would like to thank all the RFS and SES crews for their assistance in Yarraman over the last two days. Most residents were devastated by the height and force of this flood with levels that exceeded the 1976 levels but with your wonderful assistance we are getting a little normality back into our lives. Once again, thank you so very much.

Sarah Wells From the Wells Family Bendygleet Rd we are thankful for your offer today.

We’d really like to thank you for all the hard work put in the last few days helping the community out in this terrible time.

Melissa Salis I would like to say a big thanks to the RFS they came out to Yarraman today and hosed out my son and sister’s house and did in ten minutes, what took four people all day. So you saved us lots of hard back-breaking work. And also thank you to the SES guys who help empty full houses of damaged furniture to the road side for collection.

Anna Cartwright Ok so have waited until now to leave a comment have seen lots of footage, photos etc. Well done to a community for uniting together to get the job done.

Well done to Katrina for telling the story with no bull attached and getting Qantas to do what they did. I don’t live in Moree anymore but most of my family still does and it was a nail biting time watching and hearing everything unfold.

Your page, along with Now FM and the Moree Champion, did a great and somewhat patient job of keeping everyone informed. I hope you all dry out and recover from this.

Faces behind www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil Rebel Woodham, Kelly James, Kerrie-Anne Hare, Catherine Davis, Lisa Hancock-Zellers and Moreen Plains

Sporting a new name, the MAAC has already exceeded predicted daily entrance figures, with the young and the young-at-heart taking advantage of the summer temperatures to splash around and enjoy the new facility.

The remainder of the Complex is still under redevelopment with attention being turned to the construction and fitout phase of the Wellness Centre, Conference and Gym facilities. The much anticipated water slide will be installed during 2012. Council will also improve the frontages of the Complex along Gwydir, Anne and Warialda Streets through design and construction for a more appealing streetscape and better parking facilities.

Operation and Management Recently, Council discussed the preferred model for the operation and management of the MAAC. The Council considered all the options presented and adopted the company limited by guarantee model as the preferred management model, on the basis that this model appears to provide better outcomes for the community and the MAAC into the future.

Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries said the company limited by guarantee model offers increased flexibility in the operation of the Centre.

“The flexibility offered by the company model will be of benefit when we’re trying to offer a broader range of services and significantly increase the number of patrons of the Centre,” she said.

“Community pools traditionally cost Councils a considerable amount of money to operate.

“While we want to continue to provide the local community with a great swimming pool experience at a reasonable cost, we also want to take a more commercial approach to some of the other services and facilities on offer, and the current management structure restricts our ability to do that,” she said.

The Mayor said she wanted to reassure people that the company limited guarantee model does not mean that the MAAC is being privatised.

“The community has put too much money into this Centre for us to be considering privatisation,” she said.

“We anticipate that under the company model the MAAC will operate in a similar fashion to Moree Tourism and the Moree Plains Gallery: a board made up of Council and community members will oversee the operation of the Centre.”

Although the Council has adopted a preferred model, the final management structure is not ‘set in stone’: stakeholders will be consulted and investigations into the pros and cons of the preferred option will continue.

Welcoming our new Citizens

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship was very excited that Moree Plains Shire Council and St Philomena’s School partnered to host the very first Australian Citizenship Ceremony ever held at a school in NSW.

This ceremony marked a very special moment for South African’s Hein and Deborah van Kralingen and their children Gregory and Nicole Keller and Roxanne, Hyrum and Kyron van Kralingen, who became Australian citizens on 15 November 2011.

The initiative gave students a unique opportunity to learn about the values, rights and responsibilities of Australian citizenship as well as welcome the new citizens.

St Philomena’s School Principal, Karen Jagers, said the school was honoured to be recognised for its leadership in giving the primary school and lower high school pupils a first hand insight into the meaning and value of citizenship.

Moree Mayor, Katrina Humphries, said the Moree community had embraced cultural diversity and the school-based citizenship ceremony was a great example of the local community accepting new citizens from different parts of the world.

Australian citizenship is much more than a legal status. It requires an understanding and appreciation of how our society functions, the democratic principles underpinning our community, an understanding of the place of government and how we, as responsible citizens, can fully participate and contribute to Australian society.

Left to Right: General Manager David Aber, Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries, new citizens – Hyrum, Deborah and Kyron van Kralingen, Nicole Keller, Hein and Roxanne van Kralingen and Gregory Keller, Principal Karen Jagers, Will Haddad, Ben Clark, (seated) Bernadette Quirk and Abbey Downes.