Mayoral Column 23 May 2016

Published on 23 May 2016

Council to discuss “No Drugs” governance policy

It is my firm intention to raise with my fellow councillors a suggestion to build a No Drugs policy into the future governance of Loddon Shire.

Such an initiative would build on the fantastic work our youth and recreation workers do to positively engage and care for our young people.

A No Drugs policy could also provide a useful reference point when it comes to considering event management issues which impact on the Shire from time to time.

As a Shire we have a range of anti-discrimination policies which are accepted as part of good governance, as was our recent move to sign the Domestic Violence Accord, and I believe a No Drugs policy fits within this individual and community welfare context.

As an active member of sports clubs within the municipality I have seen the good sports program effectively demonstrating a zero tolerance approach to drug use through its policy of asking any drug affected person to leave.

They also ensure anyone working behind the bar has a certificate in the responsible serving of alcohol.

Let’s hope that as a Council we can show leadership on this important issue.

Paying the price for illegal rubbish dumping

Our local laws department is encouraging residents to report illegal rubbish dumping after a trailer load of smashed asbestos cement sheeting was found on a road reserve in Bridgewater.

The incident presented a community health risk and the clean-up cost was ultimately borne by our ratepayers.

While dumping of toxic material is particularly concerning, a general increase of illegal dumping across the Shire is generating extra work for Council.

We’re seeing car tyres, old cars and televisions dumped, and at the end of the day they have to be removed and ultimately that clean-up cost is money which would be better spent on enhancing our community.

If you see someone who appears to be illegally dumping rubbish I would encourage you to contact our local laws team who can investigate and potentially fine those responsible.

To report suspected illegal rubbish dumping, phone the Wedderburn office on 5494 1200 and ask to speak to our local laws officer.

Get paid to build Shire snapshot

The Census is on 9 August and the Australian Bureau of Statistics has issued another call out to Loddon Shire residents to apply for temporary field officer positions.

Apart from the clear financial incentive, working on the Census is a great way to contribute to your community.

The data successful applicants collect provides an important snapshot that supports planning, policy and funding decisions for a range of local services and infrastructure from housing and transport to health and education.

Field officers play a critical role by visiting households, encouraging online participation and ensuring everyone makes the count.

If you’re a community minded communicator and are comfortable using a computer, tablet or mobile device the ABS wants to hear from you.

For further information or to lodge your application, go to www.abs.gov.au/careers.

Creating healthier communities

With Loddon Shire having one of the highest incidence of heart disease in the state, Council is committed to supporting increased participation in physical activity.

To this end Council has thrown its support behind a free women’s come and try day organised through Inglewood and Districts Health Service.

With the event set to kick off this morning (Tuesday 24 May), if you’re reading this over breakfast it’s not too late to head down to Wedderburn Community House and register for a workshop or two.

The morning sessions encourage women to try their hand at craft based activities including scrapbooking, candle making, photography, cupcake decorating and simple patchwork flowers.

Activities planned for the afternoon are dedicated to fun physical activities and include a range of introductory classes in dancing, Pilates, tai chi, home exercise or strength training.

Women of all ages are encouraged to learn some new moves at the workshops which are set to run between 9.45am and 3.15pm.

Meanwhile the men have not been forgotten, with a social event with a health and wellbeing focus planned to be held at the Bridgewater football clubrooms on Wednesday 15 June.

The relaxed men’s catch-up will kick off with a free barbecue lunch cooked by the Lions Club.

Brief but effective health information will be shared throughout the event which includes some great door prizes and goodie bags.

For further information on either event contact Inglewood and Districts Health Service on 5431 7000.