Loddon Shire Mayoral Column 8 August 2023

Published on 08 August 2023

Mayor-Dan Straub

Parliament flood inquiry

On the 24 August, I will be representing Loddon Shire at the Victorian Parliamentary Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee public hearing in Echuca.

The hearing will investigate the state’s preparedness for and response to the 2022 flood event. I will be joined by members from the Murray River Group of Councils (MRGC), who will present their insights and findings.

The inquiry intends to look into the flood event, examining the areas impacted and factors such as what caused or contributed to the flood event; emergency services; government policy; flood mitigation strategies; the Flemington Racecourse flood wall; and the Victoria planning framework.

These public hearings serve as a significant platform for various groups and individuals to share their experiences and provide their viewpoints on the flood’s causes and effects. I will be highlighting the profound impact of flooding events have had on our Shire, economies and lives.

It is crucial for the committee to hear from those directly affected by the floods. To learn more about the public hearings or to participate, please visit https://new.parliament.vic.gov.au/floodinquiry

The Murray River Group of Councils includes Loddon Shire, as well as Mildura Rural City, Swan Hill Rural City, Gannawarra Shire, Campaspe Shire and Moira Shire councils.

VNI West meeting

Last Thursday (3 August), I had the opportunity to join another critical discussion with the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio MP, Minister for Climate Action, members of the MRGC, representatives from Australian Energy Market Operator, as well as officials from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

We stressed the importance of ensuring that any changes to the local landscape must come with adequate compensation for landowners.

This meeting served as another platform for Loddon Shire Council to discuss our concerns regarding the VNI West Project, and advocating on behalf of residents.

New barbecue shelters

The newly completed barbecue shelter at Newbridge Progress Park is now ready for public use. This project was identified by the Newbridge Arnold Llanelly Community Planning Committee Inc. in their Community Plan and funded through the Loddon Shire Council Community Planning Funding Program.

Contractors were onsite last week and have commenced the Pyramid Hill barbecue shelter in Lions Park East. This project was identified as part of the community planning process with funds allocated through Loddon Shire Council’s Community Planning funding program.

Community Asset Committee Volunteers

Over the past few weeks, I have been making my way around our Shire, attending Community Asset Committee meetings. I have had the opportunity to present the dedicated volunteers of these committees with certificates acknowledging their invaluable contributions, who were unable to join the luncheon Loddon Shire hosted back in May.

I have enjoyed getting out and about and meeting these volunteers and I want to take this opportunity to thank all of our volunteers in our Shire – your efforts are highly valued and appreciated.

I encourage each one of you to consider how you might be able to contribute to the betterment of the community. If you are interested in volunteering and would like more information, make sure you visit https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/Working-with-us/Volunteering-with-Loddon-Shire-Council

Small Business Bus coming to Inglewood

Whether you’re starting, building or transforming your business, the Victorian Government’s Small Business Bus can help you to develop your business ideas and capabilities. Business advisors from Monarch Institute are offering free 30-minute 1:1 tailored sessions.

  • Date: Monday 28 August 2023
  • Location: Near Bill’s Horse Trough, 57 Brook Street (Calder Highway), Inglewood
  • Time: 10am to 4pm
  • Walk-ups are welcome

Your business adviser can help you to identify a clear direction for your business, discuss key issues and priorities, and develop a business action plan to achieve your goals.

To register for the a mentoring sessions visit https://calendly.com/businessvicsbb1/45min-mentor-session-loddon-shire-inglewood?month=2023-08  

 

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