Mayoral Column 29 August 2016

Published on 29 August 2016

Celebrate Father’s Day at Spring Festival launch

The Naturally Loddon Spring Festival Calendar kicks off with a special Father’s Day event at Piccoli’s Star Spanner Sculpture Gardens on Sunday (4 September).

This year’s Spring Festival Calendar is brimming with a wonderful array of family friendly events hosted throughout Loddon Shire until the end of October.

I’m looking forward to officially launching The Naturally Loddon Spring Festival Calendar at the Piccoli’s stunning star spanner sculpture gardens.

Recently appointed Loddon Shire CEO Phil Pinyon is guest speaker at the event and will take the opportunity to mingle among community members.

Formalities aside, Sunday simply presents an opportunity for families to enjoy a relaxing day out together.

A jumping castle and face painting will keep the kids happy, while a barbecue and other refreshments will be available to recharge the batteries after exploring the gardens.

Father’s Day at Piccoli’s Star Spanner Sculputre Gardens runs between 11am and 4pm, with the official launch to take place at 2pm. Entry is $5 per adult and free for children under 16.

For further information on the complete Naturally Loddon Spring Festival Calendar of events on offer between 4 September and 30 October, visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au or phone the Loddon Visitor Information centre on 5494 3489.

Mental Health First Aid a priority

Loddon Shire Council recently received silver recognition from Mental Health First Aid Australia for being a Mental Health First Aid Skilled Workforce.

This is good news for Loddon Shire staff but also for the broader community.

By maintaining a ratio of at least five per cent of staff with a Mental Health First Aid Certificate, we are equipping people with skills they can use outside business hours to assist others.

Mental Health First Aid is the help given to someone developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis.

This may be a work mate but is just as likely to be a family member, neighbour, team-mate or parent at the school gate.

The first aid is given until appropriate professional treatment is received or until the crisis resolves.

Let’s hope Council’s investment in mental health helps us to have greater confidence assisting those in need, reducing sigma and in doing so strengthening our rural communities.

Private driveway repair costs

In recent weeks we’ve received a spate of queries from residents seeking Council assistance to repair their private driveway.

I would like to remind residents that it’s the property owner’s responsibility to maintain, and where necessary repair private driveways up to the point where it meets the roadway.

Driveway damage most commonly occurs though wear and tear of ageing driveways or heavy vehicle usage such as trucks.

Council is happy to assist residents with technical advice on the best way to repair or upgrade their driveway to suit current requirements, but is not responsible for any repair work.

Do you want to pass the business reins over?

Small business owners considering selling their business may benefit from attending a workshop to be held at the Wedderburn Community Centre in Wilson Street on Tuesday 4 October.

Small Business Victoria, in conjunction with Loddon Shire Council, is hosting the workshop designed to maximise the value of an existing business wishing to pass over the reins.

Participants will learn how to improve the perceived value of their business in the eyes of potential buyers, and put steps in place to set new owners up for continued success.

Cost is $20 per person including a light meal and cuppa.

Bookings can be secured by phoning Sandra Steel on 5494 1257 or emailing ssteel@loddon.vic.gov.au