Mayoral Column 3 April 2017

Published on 03 April 2017

Safety first for fine fuel burns

Good rainfall and perfect growing conditions resulted in a bumper season for Loddon Shire farmers.

After reaping the rewards of harvest, many are now planning a fine fuel burn to tackle crop stubble and control weed and undergrowth.

Excessive growth in some localities has resulted in a high number of permit to burn applications being received and Council’s local laws team have begun inspecting properties.

Community safety is paramount and the authorities will issue hefty fines to those who fail to comply with permit conditions.

The simplest way to apply for a permit is to visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au and click on “our documents” before scrolling down to “forms and permit applications” and clicking on “local laws” where you will find a “request for permit to burn” form.

Once your application is received, local laws will arrange a property inspection to consider your application.

Alternatively can contact Council’s Fire Prevention Officer Cameron Dowling at Council’s Wedderburn office on 5494 1200

Has fruit fly affected your harvest?

Whether you have a couple of apple trees in the backyard or an entire orchard, Council wants to hear from you if fruit fly is found.

Member for Ripon Louise Staley, contacted Council this week to discuss monitoring strategies to strengthen fruit fly management.

Reports of fruit fly in crops in neighbouring municipalities such as Buloke Shire are increasing, and anecdotal evidence of fruit fly reaching Loddon Shire backyards is emerging.

Fruit fly is a potential threat to vital agribusiness ventures in Loddon Shire.

Statistical information gathered by Council may be used to support future approaches to government.

If you discover fruit fly on your property contact Loddon Shire on 5494 1200.

Janiember Park project nearing completion

Photo caption: Footy fans are looking forward to keeping an eye on the action while catching up with friends in the new social rooms.

The winter sports season is upon us and excitement is building, particularly for groups based at Janiember Park.

On top of another year of on-ground action, sports enthusiasts from Serpentine, Bears Lagoon and beyond will soon be able to make the most of their fabulous new facilities.

Janiember Park building works in the order of $1.2 million are expected to be complete by early May, with the installation of a brand new playground and associated landscaping works to follow shortly after.

The project was first visualised almost a decade ago by members of the Janiember Park Users Group who approached Council with their vision.

As the redevelopment work nears completion, I would like to thank the steering group for their unwavering dedication and the broader community for supporting fundraising activities.

This project has furthered Janiember Park’s overall appeal and usability, as both a multi-use sports complex and meeting place, whilst building a sense of community pride.

I look forward to sharing details of the official opening of this fabulous facility with you in the near future.