City Update December Edition

december 2013

City Update The latest events, news, reports and happenings in your city

Carols t h g i l

by Candle townsville city council

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cityinformation

From the Mayor With another year almost behind us, it’s a good time to reflect on what we have achieved in 2013.

As a community we have embarked on, or continued with, the projects we need to ensure continued economic growth and retain and improve our lifestyle. Flood proofing Blakeys Crossing, redeveloping Jezzine Barracks, and investigating the creation of a CBD Superstadium demonstrate our commitment to getting things done and setting the agenda for our city. The heart of our city, the CBD, is undergoing a period of revival. Community ownership of the old TAFE building and the North Rail Yards reignites history and adds extra vibrancy to the city centre.

SPOTLIGHT

on Townsville Annual Report Each year council produces an Annual Report, both as a legal requirement and to show the community how we are delivering services and performing as an organisation. It highlights achievements and priorities, and outlines how council is addressing future challenges.

Council’s Annual Report will be online at www.townsville.qld.gov.au from early December. Copies will also be available to view in council’s three CityLibraries.

At Christmas, we are fortunate to have extra time with our family and friends. Townsville City Council’s Carols by Candlelight under the Supertent at Reid Park on 7 December is a great occasion to relax and celebrate together. With headline act Luke Kennedy and a host of local talent and performers, this free family event is truly a special night for all!

During this period we can also share our time and resources with those who need a little extra care during this period. This year the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal will support approximately 2000 families and individuals.

You can help by purchasing a ticket in our raffle, buying a candle at Carols, donating online or gifting in person at one of the red donation bins across the city. I also encourage you to look out

Draft City Plan Consultation on the Draft City Plan has wrapped up and council’s planning team are busy consolidating the valuable feedback received from residents through the formal submission process.

The City Plan when adopted by Council will be a legal document that guides and regulates the development of land in the local government area. The plan sets the stage for Townsville to evolve and grow whilst enhancing lifestyle, services, transport, housing choices and economic diversity as our population reaches around 300,000 by 2036.

The City Plan will replace the Townsville City Plan 2005 and City of Thuringowa Planning Scheme 2003 and will be in place for

Cr Jenny Hill mayor@townsville.qld.gov.au

10 years once it is formally adopted in 2014.

Council will provide another update on the outcomes of Council deliberations on the Draft City Plan in the March 2014 edition of City Update. Stay tuned.

Safe flame Christmas candle You can help support the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal by purchasing a safe-flame candle for $2. Candles will be available at Carols by Candlelight at Reid Park on Saturday 7 December or from council’s Customer Service Centres.

Donations of non perishable food items and gifts can be made in the red donation bins. For a list of bin locations, visit council’s website.

For more informat

ion go to

.gov.au

CR PAT ERNST

CR COLLEEN DOYLE

E pat.ernst@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0418 279 351

E colleen.doyle@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0418 273 817

division 3

division 5

Smart City Sustainable Future Committee Chair

division 9

Sport, Recreation and Parks Committee Chair

CR SUZANNE BLOM

CR TREVOR ROBERTS

CR LES WALKER

E suzanne.blom@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0427 300 364

E trevor.roberts@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0488 426 074

E les.walker2@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0418 315 705

division 1

division 6

division 10

Community and Culture Committee Chair

Infrastructure Committee Chair

E vern.veitch@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0418 729 496

2

Regards,

www.townsville.qld

Contacting your Councillors CR VERN VEITCH Deputy Mayor

for your friends and neighbours during this time. A friendly hello or a shared cup of tea can make a big difference to someone who is alone or has loved ones interstate or overseas on deployment.

I would like to thank all the members of our community who guide and assist us during the year - their contribution to our city makes it a great place to be.

May you all enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.

CR TONY PARSONS

CR GARY EDDIEHAUSEN APM

E tony.parsons@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0419 642 265

E gary.eddiehausen@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0418 262 786

division 2

division 7

Planning and Development Committee Chair

Healthy and Safe City Committee Chair

CR JENNY LANE

CR RAY GARTRELL

E jenny.lane@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0417 726 699

E ray.gartrell@townsville.qld.gov.au M 0447 185 772

division 4

division 8

Governance and Finance Committee Chair

Townsville Waste and Water Committee Chair

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

follow council online >>

Townsville Ticketshop Townsville City Council Events Townsville Disaster Information Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Pinnacles Gallery CityLibraries Townsville

@TCC_News @TownsvilleLib @TCC_PercTucker @TCC_Pinnacles

A magical night of Carols and entertainment under the Supertent

S Attratcar t Lukeion Kenne dy

Saturday 7 December 5.40pm – 9pm Free Entry Getting to Carols

Tips for Carols

disability parking >> Disability parking will be available for free at the Townsville Civic Theatre carpark.

public transport >> Public transport is the recommended option. >> The bus drop-off and pick-up zone will be located at the Townsville Railway Station.

>> Food: Food and beverage stalls will be available onsite. Patrons can also bring their own food and drinks. No glass or alcohol is permitted. >> Seating: Take a picnic rug and find a great spot on the grass under the Supertent. >> Safe-flame candles: Available on site for a $2 donation with proceeds going to the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal. >> Gifts: The Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal will gladly accept any gift donations at Santa’s tent.

no parking >> Townsville Civic Theatre (reserved for theatre patrons and disabled patrons only). >> Chinese Club carpark, opposite Pitt Lane Building (reserved for suppliers and staff only).

taxis >> The taxi drop-off and pick-up zone will be located at the Townsville Railway Station. >> Taxis can be contacted on 131 008 (13TAXI) or tsvtaxi.com.au

pedestrian crossing >> Two pedestrian crossings are operating on Boundary Street will be from 4pm - 9pm.

free parking >> Free parking will be available at the Dean Street Carpark. >> A shuttle bus will be running free services from Dean Street Carpark to Townsville Railway Station every 15 minutes from 4.30pm.

songbook >> Grab your free songbook in the Townsville Bulletin on 7 December, or on the night.

Road Closure >> From 9pm Boundary Street between Railway Avenue and Charters Towers Road will be closed to through traffic. Patrons parked within this zone will be directed by traffic controllers upon exit.

paid parking >> Paid parking sites will be available at Lou Litster Park and Townsville State High School oval. $5 per vehicle (funds go to Town High Parents & Carers Association). >> Entry into Lou Litster Park will be through Brodie Street. >> Entry into Townsville State High School Oval will be through Boundary Street only.

Luke Kennedy

Free public parking – Dean St carpark. Free shuttle bus to Townsville Railway Station every 15 mins from 4.30pm

dean st

parking and traffic information

Paid public parking – Townsville State High School Oval and Lou Litster Park >> $5 per park

dean street carpark

free shuttle bus

rooney st townsville railway station

Disabled Parking Event Entry

Pedestrian crossing

emergency evacuation area 1

Suggested walking path

event site

saunders st

townsville civic theatre

reserved for theatre patrons and disabled patrons only

reid park pit complex

more information >> www.townsville.qld.gov.au

chinese club

townsville state high school oval carpark 1

lou litster park carpark 2

fir st av e

se co nd

townsville state high school

no public parking staff and suppliers parking only

emergency evacuation area 2 little reid park

no exit until after road closure

we rs st

train park

av e

flo

brodie s t

charters towers rd

boundary st

railway ave

Bus and taxi drop-off and pick-up zone at Townsville Railway Station

first st

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

3

ourcityourfuture

Blakeys Crossing Update Work on Blakeys Crossing is well and truly underway. Major contractor BMD Constructions moved onsite in mid October and commenced improvement works to the embankment shortly after. The $24 million project, funded by the State Government, includes construction of two new bridges across Peewee

and Louisa Creeks, and raising of the road.

Lane closures and reduced speed limits are in place along Ingham Rd, between Mather and Duckworth Streets, during the works. Motorists should plan their trip to avoid using this section of Ingham Road where possible.

New partnership to revitalise Town Common A new partnership between Townsville City Council and Townsville Airport is helping to revitalise the Town Common.

As part of the revitalisation agenda, a range of educational, volunteer and recreational opportunities have been identified which aim to achieve greater use of the Town Common.

The partnership will provide funding to support Conservation Volunteers Australia and Reef Check Australia in their efforts to protect coastal and marine wetlands associated with the greater Town Common area that surrounds the

4

Townsville airport.

Some of the funded activities include annual reef surveys at Middle Reef and sites around Magnetic Island, as well as track construction and maintenance, fencing and re-vegetation activities.

Chief Operating Officer of Townsville Airport, Kevin Gill believes that this initiative provided Townsville Airport with an excellent opportunity to promote community involvement in the restoration of the local wildlife habitat.

For further information, please contact Integrated Sustainability Services on 1300 878 001.

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

New bridge over Captains Creek The new pedestrian bridge over Captains Creek is now open to the public and is part of a pathway program that will eventually link Pallarenda and the Ross Dam. Townsville has an extensive network of bike paths and walkways, and council is committed to improving these to provide safe alternative transport options around the city.

The new pedestrian bridge will provide safer crossing for children

who ride and walk to Belgian Gardens State School and easier access to the Rowes Bay beachfront from Belgian Gardens.

Jezzine comes to life If you are a regular visitor to The Strand, you might have noticed that the Jezzine Barracks Redevelopment is well and truly taking shape. Work is all but complete with only minor surface works and landscaping to be finalised before the exciting moment when construction fences will come down and the area will transform into a great place to unwind, explore and enjoy.

The $40 million project, funded by all three levels of government, has transformed Kissing Point and Jezzine Barracks into a vibrant cultural and recreational hub for residents and visitors to the city.

Townsville Mayor Cr Jenny Hill said she was optimistic about the public’s response to the new look Jezzine.

“This project has involved many different stakeholder groups working together to create a public space that people can be proud of and want to visit,” said Cr Hill.

“Very soon we will see the outcome of all the hard work that has been put in by these groups.

“We have Castle Hill, The Strand and Riverway... Jezzine Barracks is set to become another Townsville icon providing more recreational space to meet growing needs of our community.”

Key features include:

>> the coastal boardwalk link ing to the Rockpool, with interpretative signage and views of Cleveland Bay >> the indigenous Ethno Botanical Trail featuring traditional bush tucker plants and indigenous art pieces >> Par ade Ground plaza >> historical militar y artefac ts and interpretative artwork recognising the area’s militar y significance >> Open par klands off Mitche ll St and Cook St par klands wit h picnic tables and a BBQ >> an elevated amphitheatre with all abilities access for outdoor concer ts and events .

Visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au for up-to-date information on council projects and road work s.

Get Ready Townsville your guide to living in north queensland www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Townsville is a beautiful place to live but there is a potential risk for natural disasters, tropical diseases, stingers and higher rates of skin cancer during the summer.

Each year, council runs educational events and provides information to help residents prepare for the natural dangers that can occur in North Queensland during the summer. This guide will assist you to GET READY TOWNSVILLE.

plan. prepare. survive.

plan. prepare. survive.

survive tune into warnings >>

prepare your home for cyclone season >>

When warnings are issued you may be directed to: >> finalise preparations >> secure items around your home >> activate your Emergency Plan >> shelter in your home, and/or >> commence evacuation to your predetermined safer location.

T

Tune into your local radio station for emergency information.

ABC Local Radio 630 AM 4TO FM 102.3 FM Hot FM 103.1 FM Zinc 100.7 FM MIX FM 106.3 FM Triple T 103.9 FM

o help protect your home and loved ones during cyclones take steps to keep your property in good condition. Don’t leave it to the last minute. Factors such as corrosion, rotten timber and termite damage can weaken your home and make it more at risk of cyclone damage.

Remember to: >> check for signs of corrosion around the house, particularly inside the roof space >> check for rotten timber that may need replacing >> secure and tighten fixings and tie down bolts on your roof >> clean gutters and downpipes and remove debris so water can drain away >> trim trees and overhanging branches around the house >> find out how to turn off mains power supply for gas, water and electricity >> purchase emergency supplies such as masking tape, tarpaulins, sandbags and water containers >> make sure your insurance for home, contents and vehicles is up-to-date and that it covers your possessions adequately, and >> make copies of your important documents (i.e. Birth/Death/Marriage Certificates, insurance policies, passports etc.) and include in your emergency kit.

Radio Stations

Website www.townsville.qld.gov.au www.disaster.qld.gov.au

Social Media Townsville Disaster Information @TCC_news

Storing important documents

C

ouncil encourages you to store your important documents and photos electronically. CityLibraries now have document scanning stations and you can: >> visit any CityLibraries branch with your important documents >> receive a free 4GB USB (includes local disaster information), and >> copy and download your documents and/or photos to the USB. The library staff can provide a helping hand if needed.

plan. prepare. survive.

plan for cyclones prepare an emergency kit >>

W

ith a high risk of cyclones in Townsville, it is important for residents to have an emergency kit prepared early. If you do not have an emergency kit, now is the time to put one together or re-stock your existing kit.

If you lose access to power and running water, become stuck in your home or have to evacuate, an emergency kit is vital to help you and your family be self-sufficient for at least three days. Below is a basic checklist of MUST HAVE items for your emergency kit. For a full list visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au.

Battery-operated radio

Spare batteries

First aid kit Torch

Non-perishable food Clothes Medicine

Important documents Water

Pet food

Can opener and utensils

Personal hygiene items

Insect repellent Money

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

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disasterinformation

Get ready Townsville LLE

TOWNSVI

TIDE STORM UIDE G N IO T EVACUA

of predicted residents cyclone to inform a tropical e is used ciated with This guid flooding asso storm tide

ANNgE OR ZONE EVACUATIO THE ERTY IS IN ZONE. YOUR PROP EVACUATION from ORANgE be at risk

UE N ZONE BL EVACUATIO THE ERTY IS IN YOUR PROP ATION ZONE. from BLUE EVACU be at risk

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LLOW YE N ZONE EVACUATIO THE ERTY IS IN ZONE. YOUR PROP EVACUATION from YELLOW be at risk

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plan. prepare. survive.

1

plan. prepare. survive.

townsville emergency contacts >>

6

service

number

All Emergency Calls

000

Townsville City Council Emergency After Hours Flooding information Dengue outbreaks Sun safety information

1300 878 001

Townsville Local Disaster Management Group Disaster Coordination Centre (only during declared emergencies)

1800 738 541

Queensland Fire and Rescue Townsville Fire Station

000 07 4771 2111

Townsville State Emergency Service (SES) Tarping/Branches Down

13 25 00

Queensland Police Policelink (Non life-threatening calls)

000 13 14 11

Ambulance (Non life-threatening calls)

13 12 33

Ergon Energy Loss of supply and emergencies

13 22 96 12 16 70

Origin Energy Natural gas and LP gas emergencies - leaks only

1800 808 526

RACQ Road Reports

1300 130 595

Telstra

13 22 03

Optus

13 13 44

Townsville Hospital

07 44 33 1111

Department of Main Roads Road Closures

13 19 40

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

think. choose. act.

stay sun safe these holidays >>

I

t only takes six minutes to burn under the Townsville sun and the UV rays are a serious risk all year round, particularly in the hot summer. But that shouldn’t stop you getting out and enjoying the wonderful North Queensland days these holidays. There are a few simple steps you should take to protect yourself: 1. Wear a wide-brim hat and protective eyewear.

2. Apply sunscreen and reapply regularly – particularly when swimming.

3. Wear long sleeves and pants.

4. Seek shade wherever possible 5. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Enjoy the summer holidays and stay sun safe!

FACT

skin 95% of all cancers are le preventab

FACT One in Queen 13 males sland deve will melan lop a their l oma in ifetim e

storm tide evacuation guide >>

D N ZONE RE EVACUATIO THE ERTY IS IN YOUR PROPATION ZONE. from RED EVACU be at risk

es. ty may Your proper during cyclon flooding, storm tide route to your evacuation Identify your ed safer location. into pre-determin e event tune which During a cyclon ities will advise author warnings, to evacuate. tion zones need on evacua information .gov.au For further ille.qld ownsv visit www.t

T

he Storm Tide Evacuation Guide will help you prepare for cyclone events that result in an evacuation. A copy of this guide is available at council’s Customer Service Centres or can be downloaded from council’s website.

Residents are advised to review this guide before the wet season and determine what evacuation zone they are in. In the event of a cyclone, authorities will advise evacuations by zones, NOT streets or suburbs. This year be prepared, know your evacuation zone.

king tides >>

T

ownsville City Council monitors king tides during the wet season. The 2013/2014 king tides will occur on 30 and 31 January, 28 February and 1 March.

We are also expecting big tides on 1, 2, 3 and 29 January and 1 and 27 February. >> During these dates council crews keep a close eye on low-lying areas of the city and are on standby to close roads if needed. >> It’s important that residents prepare their properties and take care in high and king tides. >> Saltwater warning signs, ‘Caution, Saltwater over Road’, will warn motorists if there is water over the road in low-lying areas. >> Motorists should exercise caution and avoid driving through saltwater to prevent permanent damage to vehicles.

For more details on king tides, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website www.bom.gov.au.

disasterinformation

Get ready Townsville

think. choose. act.

defend against dengue >>

think. choose. act.

swim safely this summer >>

D

W

ith over 300 days of sunshine every year, Townsville is a great place to live and enjoy water sports. You can enjoy Townsville’s great swimming venues by remembering these important safety tips.

Stinger Safety November to May is stinger season. >> >> >> >>

Look for and observe warning signs.

Swim in swimming enclosures along coastal regions.

Do not swim when nets are closed.

Wear a full body length lycra swimming suit or wetsuit during the stinger season. This device can reduce your chances of being stung by a jellyfish by well over 75 percent. >> Refrain from swimming at night. >> Dogs are not allowed in the stinger net enclosures so please refrain from swimming or wading dogs within the vicinity. >> Do not jump or play on stinger nets.

Remember, lifeguards are not babysitters. Make sure to watch your children when they are in and around the water. facility

stinger nets

isease carrying mossies are lurking in Townsville backyards with the potential to spread the deadly dengue fever virus. Council is urging residents to schedule weekly yard checks to keep on top of mossie breeding and prevent the risk of disease transmission.

Follow these three simple steps to defend against dengue:

2. See your doctor if you feel unwell. Dengue Fever symptoms include:

1. Don’t get bitten – they are daytime biters

3. Do your weekly yard check and throw away water holding containers.

>> >> >> >> >>

Use repellent.

Burn mossie coils.

Use surface sprays.

Screen your house.

Wear loose clothes – they can’t bite through.

Two locations

9am - 5pm daily

Rockpool

N/A

9am - 5pm daily (Closed Wednesday for cleaning)

Magnetic Island Alma Bay

No

9am - 4pm daily

Magnetic Island Horseshoe Bay

Yes

9am - 4pm daily

Magnetic Island Picnic Bay

Yes

Easter and Christmas holidays

Pallarenda

Yes

9am - 5pm daily

Balgal Beach

Yes

Easter and Christmas holidays

Rollingstone

No

No lifeguard on duty

Toomulla

No

No lifeguard on duty

Toolakea

No

No lifeguard on duty

Saunders Beach

No

No lifeguard on duty

Bushland Beach

No

No lifeguard on duty

>> Are you making dengue mossies welcome around your home?

Check for potential breeding sites weekly, including:

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lifeguard patrols

The Strand

>> headache >> muscle and joint pain >> skin rash >> loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhoea >> fever >> bleeding of gums or nose.

11

3

1

Bird bath

2

Palm frond

3

Sump pit

4 Bucket 7

9

5 Boat 5

6 Bromeliad 7 Tyre 8 Toys

8 1

6

2

9

Pot plants

10

Roof gutter

11

Water tank

4

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

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disasterinformation

Get ready Townsville

plan. prepare. survive.

shelter and evacuation options in townsville >>

P

rior to each cyclone season, Townsville residents need to develop a Household Emergency Plan that includes evacuation and shelter considerations based on their circumstances and exposure to risk. Follow these key steps to determine your best sheltering option in the event of a cyclone: 1. What is your risk? >> Consider the location of your home. Council has identified areas that may need to evacuate if a storm tide or localised flooding threatens – review the Storm tide Evacuation Guide. >> Consider the construction and condition of your home. Do you live in an older home (built before 1982) that is poorly maintained, or do you live in a caravan or temporary dwelling? >> Consider your needs. Do you live alone, have pets or have special needs?

You need to plan and prepare now so you can quickly evacuate and shelter in a safer place if needed.

2. Consider your shelter options: >> Shelter in place. If you live in a wellconstructed home located outside of a Storm Tide Evacuation Zone, your best option is to shelter in your home. >> Evacuate to shelter in a safer place. If you are potentially at risk, prearrange your evacuation with friends or family first. Consider commercial accommodation or shelter options in your community as a last resort.

3. Considerations when planning an evacuation to shelter in a safer place: >> Plan to leave early, well before strong winds start to impact your area. >> Allow time to secure and protect your property. >> Prepare supplies to take an evacuation kit. >> Check in advance if you can take your pets and pack supplies for them.

please note >> Shelters such as Places of Refuge or Cyclone Shelters should be considered only after you have exhausted all other options, or if you are unable to leave the warning area. Both types of facilities are intended as short-term options, have very basic amenities and limited capacity.

think. choose. act.

stay afloat this wet season >>

T

ownsville is built on a natural flood plain and is prone to localised flooding during the wet season. Although council carries out extensive flood mitigation works to reduce the impact of flooding, it is impossible to floodproof the city.

Don’t risk your safety this wet season.

Always act responsibly near floodwaters.

Be Flood Safe! >> Don’t swim in or drink from flooded waters. >> Keep children and animals away from stormwater drains – drains can quickly turn into dangerous places during the wet season. >> Don’t drive across flooded creeks or rivers – you don’t know how fast the water is flowing or the condition of the road. >> Slow down and put your lights on when driving in the rain – it takes twice as long for your car to stop in the wet. >> Don’t drive around barricades when roads are closed.

managing your pets in a disaster >>

O

wners should include pets in their emergency plans. A disaster may mean you need to evacuate or confine a pet at home. >> Plan ahead. Shelters and Evacuation Centres in Townsville will not accept animals. By acting early, you will avoid unnecessary danger and anxiety. >> Pets should be moved to a safer place before a potential disaster. This might be with relatives, friends, animal boarding facilities or a

8

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

temporary animal shelter. >> If you are evacuating and taking your pet with you, ensure you have: >> non-perishable pet food and water bowls >> a leash (possibly a muzzle) or a carry-cage, bag or box >> toilet litter or old newspapers, and >> pet’s medical history and vet contact details.

12 01

Ways of Christmas ‘Tis the season to recycle T

MI

AD

holidayseason

IT ADM

Look for gifts with a minimal amount of packaging like movie tickets or gift vouchers. Or make the packaging part of the gift, perhaps a bottle of wine with a chiller bag.

03 Turn your favourite Christmas cards into a decorative garland or gift tags.

05

02 Use old plastic bottles cut across the top as candle holders. Use coloured plastic and decorate for a festive look.

A little sand in the bottom will keep the candle steady.

04 Flatten recycling such as aluminium cans, cartons and cardboard boxes to save space in your recycling bin and the collection truck.

06

Collect recyclables with a reusable tub or cardboard box in the post festivity clean up. NEVER bag your recyclables! Thin plastic bags damage the sorting machines.

Make your own Christmas Crackers using old wrapping paper and toilet rolls. Make them personal by writing your own jokes or including fun challenges to entertain your guests.

07

08

Wrapping paper is great for cleaning windows and leaving them streak-free – use it instead of paper towels or a cloth (avoid using the shiny/plastic wrap).

A garden composter makes a great Christmas gift and can be used to recycle food scraps after your Christmas feast.

09 Collect steel bottle tops in a can.

When it is half full squeeze the top closed – then recycle. This stops the small bottle tops from falling through the sorting machines.

11 Extend your waste service or upgrade your recycle bin. Call customer service for more info 1300 878 001.

10 Instead of Christmas paper, wrap gifts with festive material, gift boxes or tins which can be reused.

Beatthe Heat Tips for saving water and reducing your cooling costs in the Townsville heat

Setting your air con lower than you need does NOT cool the room faster.

Save the cooking for the cooler hours or use the outdoor barbeque.

Turning on the stove will heat up the kitchen and increase your cooling costs.

Keep your air conditioners efficient – clean out the filters about once a month in peak times.

Use window tinting or close the curtains through the day to prevent the sun heating up the room.

Water the lawn in the evening so the sun doesn’t soak up your precious water. Switch to a Wobble Tee efficient sprinkler to save over 900L water per hour.

12 Christmas is a great time of year to clean out the toy cupboard.

Recycle by having a garage sale or donating to charitable organisations.

Run your fan and your air conditioner simultaneously. You can run your air conditioner at 25° which will help dehumidify the air.

Running the fan at the same time will make the room feel more like 23 as it circulates the air and moves heat away from the body.

Pop a cover or shade sail over the pool to prevent evaporation through the day

Run the dishwasher and clothes dryer in the cooler hours at night.

Better yet turn off the heat cycle of the dishwasher and air dry the dishes overnight.

The kitchen presents many opportunities to reuse water in the garden or on houseplants. Some examples include water from boiling eggs, steaming veggies and leftover water in the kettle.

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

9

communitylearning

what’s new at citylibraries A New World of Borrowing - Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) A special project is underway at CityLibraries. From October to January you may notice some changes to the CityLibraries braches as RFID is implemented.

CityLibraries staff will be busy tagging books, DVDs and magazines and new service counters will be installed along with self-service stations. The new RFID system will replace the current barcode system, speeding up the check-in, check-out process.

CityLibraries Townsville lends close to 980,000 library items each year and has seen a rapid growth in demand for digital technology. The RFID system will enable greater technologies to be utilised within the library, simplify transaction processes and enable staff to deliver more services and programs to the community.

How will I check out items with the new system?

Self-serve kiosks will be the easiest and quickest way to borrow an item at CityLibraries. Up to five items can be borrowed in the one transaction.

Summer Holiday Fun! Toy Giant LEGO comes to Townsville Gallery LEGO™, it’s a bit of a love/hate relationship - we love how it keeps the kids occupied and stimulates their creativity, but we hate picking it up, standing on it and sucking it up the vacuum cleaner. No matter your opinion of LEGO, one place where it’s sure to create a smile will be the LEGO exhibition Brick by Brick: History of LEGO™ in Popular Culture at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery from 13 December 2013 to 23 February 2014.

Come along and discover amazing LEGO™ creations and explore the origins of LEGO with original prototypes from the “Ideas House” in Denmark. These never before seen in Australia pieces will chart the story of LEGO throughout the last century as well as celebrating LEGO’s history and impact on popular culture the exhibition will be a fun-filled participatory and engaging experience for children and adults alike.

The exhibition will feature an interactive video game room, and a room dedicated to LEGO™ play and construction where visitors can explore their imagination through LEGO™ sculpture building.

Gallery Services will also bring Southern Hemisphere’s only LEGO™ certified professional Ryan McNaught (aka The Brickman) to Townsville to work with children for two weeks during the exhibition. The whole city will marvel at the stunning, large scale sculptures that Ryan and his team of helpers will create. Proudly sponsored by Willows Shopping Centre.

Will CityLibraries need to close?

Aitkenvale and Flinders Street CityLibraries, will close late January for a week for the installation of RFID equipment. This will be before the system goes live. Thuringowa CityLibraries will remain open to enable Townsville residents to access library services and resources.

What about privacy?

CityLibraries Townsville has always safeguarded privacy and membership records and there will be no change with the new system. Data protection will remain in accordance with the Information Privacy Act 2009 (Qld).

Will I need a new card?

No. You will continue to use your normal library account to borrow. The self-serve kiosks will enable you to either scan the barcode on your library card or type in your account’s username and password, similar to online shopping sites.

For a full list of events and activities see the latest edition of Learn Discover Connect e-magazine now available at council’s website. @TownsvilleLib CityLibraries Townsville

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TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

Beat the boredom these school holidays!

Keep your kids busy these holidays with council’s boredomproof Summer School Holiday Program. There are heaps of special events, workshops and activities planned for families, young children and young adults. Don’t forget to check out the coupons in the back for some super savings!

Grab a copy of your School Holiday Program from your local school, council customer service centre, CityLibraries branch or download from www.townsville.qld.gov.au.

Investigate the Summer Reading Club

SummerReadingClub.org.au

Children across the city can delve into reading over the Christmas holidays by taking part in the annual Summer Reading Club. Children from 0-16 years can register to participate in the program. The theme for this year’s Summer Reading Club is “Investigation”. Young people will be encouraged to engage with our libraries to discover and enjoy stories and activities that intrigue, puzzle and provide a sense of suspense and adventure.

This annual reading program is run in partnership with the State Library of Queensland, the Australian Library and Information Association and sponsored locally by Ferry Property Group.

Win great

prizes!

Put on your detective cap this summer! Investigate mysteries, hunt down clues and become a master of disguise with some of your favourite authors.

Jump online or participate at your local public library.

Aus tralian Lib rary an d Information Association

w o T

v s n

D B C ille lisation a t i v e r

CBD Incentives Program Incentives for new development will extend to Townsville’s Greater CBD to further new development opportunities in the inner-city and support jobs and growth.

The same full discounts on council fees and charges will now be extended from the CBD core area to the defined Greater CBD area, which currently qualifies for up to half of the concessions.

Council also approved capping the program at $7.5 million and introducing an eligibility confirmation process around the existing completion deadline of June 2015.

Townsville Mayor Cr Jenny Hill said the program had been successful in attracting new projects to the city in its initial stages, and now refinement was needed to maintain momentum.

“By capping the cost of the incentives program, developers will have greater reason to get in early and finish projects, and the community will know just how much they have supported the revitalisation of the CBD through incentives,” Cr Hill said.

“This is a local Government actively playing its role in supporting job creation and economic growth. By providing $2.2 million to date, in concessions for seven projects with a combined value of $140 million, the scheme has already achieved major flow on benefits for the community.”

Fee waiver for CBD events Townsville City Council is continuing to revitalise the CBD by encouraging groups and businesses to host community events and festivals in the inner city by waiving hire fees.

these objectives the council is offering free hire of council-owned public spaces, facilities and venues until June 2015,” he said.

Planning and Development committee chairman Cr Tony Parsons said the waiver of fees was part of the CBD activation strategy.

“There are some great ideas out there for events and festivals and now is the perfect opportunity to get these events off the ground with the added benefit of a free venue space.

“The council wants to create a vibrant and active inner city and to encourage more events, festivals and activities to be held in the CBD. To support

Application for a venue fee waiver for councilowned space or facility can be made in writing to the council via (email) or post.

City Shuttle Bus A City Shuttle bus service is available in the CBD providing stress-free transport around the city centre. Operated by Sunbus, the shuttle travels in a clockwise direction from the free Dean Street car park taking in Stanley, Walker, Sturt and Denham Streets.

Street Mall, Australian Tax Office, Department of Transport and Main Roads and various shopping facilities. The service operates every 10 minutes during the morning (7am - 9am) and afternoon (4.30pm - 6pm) peak, making it ideal for CBD workers commuting to and from work.

The service provides access to high frequency areas including the Townsville City Council office, Flinders

At just $2 per ride, don’t stress about city parking and traffic – just hop on the red bus!

TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

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togethertownsville

y austr aliAawardds a 2014 T

he 2014 Australia Day Awards is your opportunity to recognise and reward someone who makes you proud to be an Australian. Nominations can be made in one of eight categories: >> Citizen of the Year Award >> Young Citizen of the Year Award >> Community Event of the Year Award >> Senior Sports Award >> Junior Sports Award >> Sports Administrator Award >> Cultural Award >> Spirit of Townsville Award The awards will be announced as part of the Australia Day celebrations at

Riverway on Sunday 26 January.

Other celebrations on the day include a fun run and free Aussie breakfast proudly sponsored by Wingate Communities, Citizenship Ceremony, Welcoming Babies Ceremony, cricket and local entertainers Nominations are now open and will close on Friday 10 January 2014 and can be downloaded online at www.townsville.qld.gov.au.

CONTACT COUNCIL

Townsville City Council PO Box 1268

Townsville QLD 4810 1300 878 001 from 8am–5pm www.townsville.qld.gov.au enquiries@townsville.qld.gov.au 103 Walker Street, Townsville City

86 Thuringowa Drive, Thuringowa Central

Operating hours 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday

COUNCIL MEETINGS >> 9am Tuesday 26 November >> 9am Tuesday 17 December

STANDING COMMITTEE MEETINGS Please visit council’s website for upcoming committee meetings. *A schedule for meetings in 2014 is yet to be determined and will be published in the Townsville Bulletin.

a message from maggie towns >>

Council Closures H

i all, Maggie Towns here – what a busy couple of months it’s been since we last spoke! As Christmas gets closer it’s important to know that council offices, facilities and call centres will be closed at various times over the holiday season. See our list below or visit our website for the full listing. >> Customer Service Centres – Closed 3pm Tuesday 24 December, reopen 8.30am Thursday 2 Jan. >> Customer Call Centre – Closed from 3pm Tuesday 24 December. Open all other business hours except public holidays. >> Aitkenvale Library – Closed from 3pm Tuesday 24 December, reopens from 9am-3pm Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 December, closed Wednesday 1 January, reopens Thursday 2 January. >> Flinders Street and Thuringowa Libraries

>>

>> >> >> >>

– Closed from 3pm Tuesday 24 December and reopen 9am Thursday 2 January.

Riverway Arts Centre and Townsville Civic Theatre Ticketshop– Closed from 3pm Tuesday 24 December. Open all other business hours except public holidays.

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery – Closed Monday 23, reopen Monday 6 January.

Pinnacles Art Gallery – Closed Saturday 21 December, reopen Monday 6 January.

The Strand, Strand Rockpool and Strand Water Park – as normal Townsville pools – Tobruk, Long Tan, Kokoda and Northern Beaches Leisure Centre pools will all have changed operating hours. See our website for full details.

Don’t forget to Like our Facebook page and ask me any questions you may have about council services and programs.

New Year’s Eve Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2013 at The Strand on Tuesday 31 December with a firework spectacular and free family fun in Strand Park.

A special fireworks display for families with young children will light up the celebrations at 8pm on The Strand followed by another at 12am

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TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CITY UPDATE >> DECEMBER 2013

including Nelly Bay. The New Year’s Eve celebrations are proudly brought to you by Townsville City Council. For event information visit council’s website www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Maggie Towns