Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council

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Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
ISSUE 6, 2020
                                            Gazette

  3    Meet the Golden Plains
       Shire Councillors
                                7   New Cricket Facility
                                    at Linton
                                                           8   Road and Bridge
                                                               Projects for
       2020-2024                                               Golden Plains
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COMMUNITY
COUNCIL NEWS
           NEWS

From the Mayor
                             It’s an honour to have been           Under the banner of our Council Vision 2040 and
                             elected as Mayor of Golden            its themes of Community, Liveability, Prosperity and
                             Plains Shire for 2020-21, the first   Sustainability, we will be developing the Council Plan
                             year of our new Council term,         2021-2025 early next year. This four-year plan will direct
                             and I would like to thank my          the work and investment of this Council and we encourage
                             fellow Councillors for the support    every resident to have their say on their priorities for
                             they have extended to me and          Golden Plains Shire.
                             to Deputy Mayor Cr Ian Getsom.        Finally, as the Council term begins, a year that we will
                                                                   always remember is coming to a close. On behalf of the
                           Now that the election has passed,       Councillors, I wish all residents a very Merry Christmas
                           we have been busy completing            and a happy, healthy New Year. Our Council group looks
the Councillor Induction program as we look forward to an          forward to a busy and successful 2021, working hard for
exciting and productive year ahead. We thank the Golden            the people of Golden Plains.
Plains residents for the faith they have placed in us and we
will work together to serve them well as Councillors.              Cr Helena Kirby - Mayor of Golden Plains Shire Council

Stay Fire Ready
After the devastation of bushfires last year,                      issued to non-compliant properties, significantly less than last
everyone has an important responsibility                           year’s 493 notices and we thank property owners for taking
                                                                   fire preparations seriously. Landowners who received a notice
to help reduce the risk of fire to their own                       are required to complete specified works by early December;
property and the entire community, keeping                         or risk a $1,652 fine and Council organising a contractor to
Golden Plains Shire safe this fire season.                         complete the works at the owner’s expense.
For more information about fire preparation and                    Thank you to the thousands of Golden Plains Shire
prevention, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/fire                     residents who have prepared their properties for the fire
                                                                   season. Please ensure you keep your property in the same
                                                                   condition throughout the Fire Danger Period and if you go
Keep Safe This Fire Season
                                                                   away for holidays, make plans for a neighbor or friend to
If you are in a high-risk bushfire area, make sure you know        monitor your property.
what to do, and when and where to go, on hot, dry and
windy days. It could make all the difference to you and            Schedule 13 Permits
your family.                                                       During the Fire Danger Period, you are not permitted to
To keep your family safe, remember to confirm your                 burn off on your property without a Schedule 13 Permit.
emergency plan, review and restock your emergency                  To apply for a permit, residents need to contact their local
kit, and take a few minutes to share your plans with               CFA district to request and submit a permit application.
any holiday visitors you may have staying with you.
Be Prepared. Stay Prepared.                                          Council Fire Prevention
Owners of land in Golden Plains Shire are required to keep           In mid-October, Council began its own fire prevention
long grass on their properties cut so that it is no higher           works, commencing the annual roadside slashing
than 100mm during the Fire Danger Period. On properties              program of all sealed roads and strategic fire breaks
more than two hectares, landowners are required to keep              to reduce fuel loads. Council also conducts burning
grass below a maximum of 100mm up to a minimum of                    of selected reserves to remove fire hazards and,
20 metres from a house or outbuilding.                               with additional Working for Victoria program staff,
Under State Government legislation, Council must conduct             has undertaken fire hazard, fuel reduction and litter
fire hazard inspections of private property. Inspections started     collection works. This program commences in
in November, and a total of 249 Fire Prevention Notices were         the drier south of the Shire before moving north,
                                                                     with the program to be completed by Christmas.

2 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COUNCIL NEWS

The Golden Plains Shire Council 2020-2024

The Golden Plains Shire Councillors 2020-2024 (Left to Right):Clayton Whitfield, Helena Kirby, Brett Cunningham, Owen Sharkey, Gavin Gamble, Les Rowe and Ian Getsom.

Golden Plains Shire Council’s new Councillor                                             a Council Meeting (Budget Submissions) on 8 June and
group for the 2020-2024 term were officially                                             a Council Meeting (Mayoral Election) on 16 November.
sworn in at the Oath/Affirmation of Office                                               Due to COVID restrictions, the meetings in January,
                                                                                         February, March and April, 2021 will be held at the Golden
ceremony on Saturday 14 November, 2020.                                                  Plains Civic Centre, 2 Pope St, Bannockburn and closed
The Councillors who will represent Golden Plains Shire                                   to public attendance. The location and attendance of
for the 2020-2024 term are: Brett Cunningham,                                            meetings from May onwards will be determined and
Gavin Gamble, Ian Getsom, Helena Kirby, Les Rowe,                                        communicated later in the year.
Owen Sharkey and Clayton Whitfield.                                                      All meetings of Council are livestreamed on Council’s
                                                                                         YouTube channel. For a direct link, visit Council’s website
On Tuesday 17 November, the Councillors elected
                                                                                         or social media on the day of the meeting, with a recording
Cr Helena Kirby as Mayor and Cr Ian Getsom as
                                                                                         available on Council’s website following the meeting.
Deputy Mayor for 2020-21.
                                                                                         Any person can ask a maximum of two questions of Council
                                                                                         during a 30-minute Question Time and all questions must
Council Meetings 2021
                                                                                         be lodged by 10am on the day of the meeting by email,
Residents and members of the public are welcome to                                       Council’s website or hand delivered to Council offices.
attend meetings of Council which are held on the fourth                                  To lodge a question, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/local-laws
Tuesday of each month at 6pm, with the exception of the                                  The meeting agenda is available on Council’s website on
meeting on the third Tuesday in January and December.                                    the Friday prior to the meeting. For agendas and more
In 2021, Council Meetings will be held on the following                                  information, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au
Tuesdays: 19 January, 23 February, 23 March, 27 April,
25 May, 22 June, 27 July, 24 August, 28 September,
26 October, 23 November and 21 December. There is also

                                                                                                                      ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 3
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COUNCIL NEWS

Meet Your Golden Plains Shire Councillors
Seven local residents have been elected to serve as Golden Plains Shire Councillors
for the 2020-2024 term.

  Mayor Cr Helena Kirby                           Email: cr.hkirby@gplains.vic.gov.au             Phone: 0436 599 856

                              Mayor Cr Helena Kirby has lived in Rokewood for 30 years and with her family, she owns and
                              operates the Rokewood Take Away store. Serving her fourth consecutive term as a Councillor,
                              she was elected Mayor for 2020-21, a role she previously held in 2017-18.
                              Cr Kirby is passionate about ensuring equity of services in the Shire’s small towns, community
                              consultation and engagement, and community planning. During the Council term, she is focused
                              on economic development, activating community spaces including local halls and playgrounds,
                              and protecting the rural lifestyle of Golden Plains Shire.
                              In her role as Mayor, Cr Kirby serves on the Audit & Risk Committee, G21 Board of Directors,
                              Central Highlands Councils Victoria and the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Engagement
                              Committee. Cr Kirby is also Council’s representative on the Peri Urban Group of Rural Councils,
                              Golden Plains Disability Access & Inclusion Committee and Rural Financial Counselling
                              Service – Colac Local Reference Group.

  Deputy Mayor Cr Ian Getsom                      Email: cr.igetsom@gplains.vic.gov.au          Phone: 0437 760 451

                              Cr Ian Getsom is a long-term Piggoreet resident, living on a rural property farmed by his sons.
                              He has volunteered for almost 40 years with the CFA and is the President of the Happy Valley
                              community hall. With a career in transport, he worked as a train controller during his 15 years
                              on Victorian railways and now drives school and charter bus runs in the north of the Shire.
                              Cr Getsom prides himself on being an approachable Councillor and looks forward to building
                              strong working relationships with the Council staff. He is passionate about boosting services
                              across the many townships of the Shire and improving the vitality of its villages.
                              Cr Getsom is a Community Services Portfolio Councillor and is Deputy Mayor for 2020-21.
                              He is also Council’s representative on Timber Towns, Ballarat Regional Landfill Monitoring
                              Committee and the G21 Transport Pillar.

  Cr Brett Cunningham                             Email: cr.bcunningham@gplains.vic.gov.au        Phone: 0437 661 423

                              A resident of Bannockburn and formerly Teesdale, Cr Brett Cunningham has professional
                              experience in marketing, corporate services and stakeholder relations roles. He is the
                              chairperson of Bannockburn & District Grants and the Bannockburn and Surrounds
                              Neighbourhood Watch.
                              Cr Cunningham is dedicated to strengthening confidence in Council and building community
                              support through transparency and engagement. He is focused on developing youth and mental
                              health services, greater road funding and improved facility maintenance.
                              Cr Cunningham is a Corporate Service Portfolio Councillor and a member of Council’s Audit
                              and Risk Committee. He is Council’s representative on the Tourism Greater Geelong and
                              Bellarine Board, the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Financial Assistance Grants and Rate
                              Capping Taskforce, and the G21 Economic Development, Health and Wellbeing, and Sport
                              and Recreation Pillars.

4 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COMMUNITY
                                                                                 COUNCIL NEWS

Cr Clayton Whitfield                Email: cr.cwhitfield@gplains.vic.gov.au               Phone: 0400 438 334

                  Cr. Clayton Whitfield has lived in Inverleigh for the past 14 years and brings managerial skills
                  and statutory knowledge from his experience in the domestic building sector, as a Trade Section
                  Commander in the Army, a vocational educator at The Gordon, and a building consultant.
                  Cr. Whitfield is passionate about improving Council’s asset maintenance and budget efficiency,
                  supporting youth in rural areas and community consultation. He sees balancing the Shire’s
                  population growth while maintaining rural appeal as an important challenge for Council.
                  Cr. Whitfield is an Infrastructure and Development Portfolio Councillor and Council’s
                  representative on the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Emergency Management Committee
                  and the G21 Planning and Services Pillar.

Cr Owen Sharkey                     Email: cr.osharkey@gplains.vic.gov.au                 Phone: 0418 694 716

                  Cr Owen Sharkey is a resident of Batesford who brings career experience from the construction
                  and housing industry to his role in Council. Elected to serve his second term as a Councillor,
                  Cr Sharkey was Mayor of Golden Plains Shire in 2018-19 and 2019-20.
                  Cr Sharkey is dedicated to supporting local youth, cultural diversity and business development,
                  with a focus on recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. His priorities for Council include
                  maintaining strong regional partnerships, highlighting the challenges for peri urban
                  municipalities and advocating for an improved rating structure.
                  Cr Sharkey is a Community Services Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on to
                  the Municipal Association of Victoria and its Human Service Committee, as well as the Geelong
                  Regional Library Corporation Board.

Cr Les Rowe                         Email: cr.lrowe@gplains.vic.gov.au                    Phone: 0437 290 595

                  Cr Les Rowe is a life-long resident of Sutherlands Creek, where he and his family farm properties
                  in the Moorabool Valley, near the land his ancestors settled more than 160 years ago.
                  Cr Rowe is a strong advocate for the local agricultural industry and rural communities. Serving
                  his second term as a Councillor, he is dedicated to improving the local road and bridge network,
                  community consultation, supporting local businesses and job creation, and Council delivering
                  on the Community Vision 2040.
                  Cr Rowe is a Corporate Services Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative on the Geelong
                  Heritage Centre Collection Advisory Committee, Golden Plain Municipal Fire Management
                  Planning Committee and the G21 Education & Training and Arts, Heritage & Culture Pillars.

Cr Gavin Gamble                     Email: cr.ggamble@gplains.vic.gov.au                  Phone: 0437 187 542

                  As a Teesdale local of 18 years, Cr Gavin Gamble has a long history of active community
                  involvement in the Shire, including as a Community Coordinator and Cub Scout leader,
                  on Friends groups and the Turtle Bend Committee of Management, and with sporting clubs.
                  He has professional experience as a school teacher, brewer and now operates his own gardening
                  business across Golden Plains Shire.
                  Cr Gamble is a member of the Australian Greens and is passionate about pursuing action to
                  address climate change, protecting the Shire’s unique biodiversity, responsible development
                  and township enhancements, provision of greater transport and recreational options, and
                  support for cultural and wellbeing initiatives.
                  Cr Gamble is an Infrastructure and Development Portfolio Councillor and Council’s representative
                  on the Grampians Central West Waste and Resource Recovery Group, the G21 Environment
                  Pillar and the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee and
                  Environment Committee.

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Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COMMUNITY NEWS

Grants for Local Community Projects
Seventeen Golden Plains community                              in local reserves, and helping local residents purchase a
groups have been awarded Community                             solar or battery system for their home. Council’s $71,928
                                                               contribution will leverage another $204,560 in value for
Strengthening Grants by Council, to deliver
                                                               the community and provide a return of $2.80 for every
an exciting range of community projects and                    $1 invested by Council.
programs across the Shire.
                                                               As with the first round announced in July, Councillors
In the second round of this year’s grants program, Council     read out a short statement on each of the successful
awarded a combined $71,928 to the successful groups            projects at the November Council Meeting, instead of
for projects across four categories: Healthy Active Living;    the in-person community event, which not held due to
Creative Community; Environment and Sustainability;            COVID-19 restrictions.
and Community Safety.                                          In its 25th year, Council revised its successful community
These grants will support a variety of programs, including     grants program and in the first round of this year’s grants
building community facilities, enhancing the biodiversity      program, 16 groups shared in $74,284 of funding.

The recipients of the second round of Council’s 2020 Community Strengthening Grants are:

           Healthy Active Living Grants

  Meredith Cricket Club                                        Updating the Cricket Nets                    $2,500
  Woady Yaloak Athletics Club                                  Haddon Seating Enhancement Project           $1,980
  Rokewood Kindergarten                                        Outdoor Blinds Project                       $2,717
  Bannockburn and District Netball Association                 Community Sports Grandstand                  $10,000
  Hands of Change Meredith                                     Meredith Community Garden                    $5,000
  Maude Recreation Reserve Committee of Management             Maude Recreation Reserve Cricket Nets        $3,243

           Creative Community Grants

  Mannibadar Hall Committee                                   Mannibadar Soldier Settlement Centenary       $5,610
  Linton Cemetery Trust                                       Chinese Memorial Plaque and Landscaping       $2,500

           Environment and Sustainability Grants

  Garibaldi Landcare Group                              Hardies Hill Reserve Wetlands Restoration           $4,000
  Inverleigh Golf Club                                  Inverleigh Golf Club Watering Project               $8,600
  Linton and District Progress Association              Enhancing Edinburgh Reserve’s Biodiversity          $1,300
  Yarrowee Leigh Catchment Group                        Replacement of Landcare Tree Planting Tools         $1,256
  Batesford Fyansford Stonehaven Landcare               Enhancing Red Gum Reserve’s Biodiversity            $2,087
  Bannockburn Community Planning Group                  Milton Street Arbour                                $8,000
  Geelong Sustainability Group                          Community Solar Bulk Buy                            $8,000

           Community Safety Grants

  Life Saving Victoria                                 Sink or Swim Aquatic Safety and First Aid Online     $4,385
  Bannockburn & District Men’s Shed                    Security Alarm System                                $750

6 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COMMUNITY NEWS

New Cricket Facility at Linton
Michaela Settle MP, Member for Buninyong, and Mayor Cr Helena Kirby (back row) celebrated the announcement of the new cricket training facility with Linton Cricket Club
members, (front, left to right) Claire Keefe, Hunter McDonald, Liam Kerr and Rory Kerr.

Linton cricket players were bowled over                                                   Delivering at the Linton Recreation Reserve
by the recent announcement of a new                                                       The Linton Recreation Reserve has received significant
cricket training facility to be built at Linton                                           upgrades over the past years – and there’s most exciting
Recreation Reserve.                                                                       projects in 2021.
                                                                                          Last year, the new lights on the oval were switched on
On 20 November, Mayor Cr Helena Kirby and members                                         for the Linton football teams and the new female friendly
of the Linton Cricket Club joined Member for Buninyong                                    change rooms delivered for the Linton netball teams.
Michaela Settle MP at the Reserve for the announcement of                                 This year, the pavilion and grandstand have been painted
the partnership of the Victorian Government and Council to                                in the club colours and Linton Cricket Club will enjoy the
deliver this $202,500 project. The Victorian Government will                              new hard cricket wicket.
contribute $100,000 from its 2019-2020 Community Cricket
Program – Community Facilities Fund, with Council investing                               In 2021, a significant upgrade of the playground at the
$72,500 and also securing an additional grant from the                                    Reserve will be completed, along with the new cricket
Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund for $30,000.                                       training facility ready for 2021-22 cricket season.
The Linton Cricket Club has active junior and senior cricket
teams participating in the Grenville Cricket Association,
as well as running an under 8’s skill development program.
                                                                                              Howzat!
The installation of the new three-bay training facility at                                    Cricket continues to be one of the most
Linton will:                                                                                  popular sports in Golden Plains Shire,
• Increase capacity for more training times and                                               with many local clubs listing senior and
   non-structured training opportunities for the Linton
   community;
                                                                                              junior teams of male and female players.
• Deliver increased skill development due to the                                              Last year, Council delivered new hard cricket wickets
   availability of a usable facility and an additional net;                                   at the Linton Recreation Reserve, Rokewood
                                                                                              Recreation Reserve and Inverleigh Sporting Complex.
• Create opportunities for the Linton Cricket Club to
   encourage new users and new programs including                                             In 2021, along with the new cricket facility in Linton,
   female teams;                                                                              Council is delivering the Lethbridge Cricket Net
                                                                                              Upgrade, funded by $145,000 from the Federal
• Increase club participation due to beginner level skill
                                                                                              Government’s Local Roads and Community
   development with the hope of attracting further female
                                                                                              Infrastructure Program.
   participants; and
                                                                                              Council also awarded two Community Strengthening
• Provide a safe training facility for the club and community.
                                                                                              Grants of $2,500 to the Meredith Cricket Club to
Construction of the cricket training facility including three                                 upgrade its cricket nets and $3,242 for cricket nets
new cricket nets and associated fencing will begin early                                      at the Maude Recreation Reserve.
next year following the current cricket season.
                                                                                                                       ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 7
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
COMMUNITY
ROADS AND BRIDGES
           NEWS

In the Works: New Bridges
Council has a busy schedule of significant road and bridge projects in 2020-21, improving
road safety in Meredith, Rokewood, Napoleons, Shelford, Mt Mercer and Sutherlands Creek.
Slate Quarry Road Bridge                                      The $393,583 bridge is fully funded by the Federal
                                                              Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure
A new $2.3 million Slate Quarry Road Bridge will be built
                                                              Program – Round 1, and construction will be completed
in Meredith, funded by $1.15 million from Council and
                                                              by mid-2021.
$1.15 million from the Federal Government’s Bridge
Renewal Program.
Slate Quarry Road in Meredith is the major link between
two arterial roads: Midland Highway and Geelong-Ballan
Road. The existing bridge is currently load limited to
15 tonne on a road network that connects many local
businesses.
The new unrestricted bridge will eliminate a 20km detour
for an estimated 25 heavy vehicles per day, equating
to 130,000km saved each year. With bushland to the
                                                              Construction of the Franklin Bridge.
northeast of Meredith, the new unrestricted bridge will
provide emergency services access to this important route     Franklin Bridge
for response vehicles, significantly reducing travel times
in emergencies.                                               Works on the new Franklin Bridge in Napoleons are almost
                                                              complete, with the opening scheduled for December 2020.
Construction will begin in early 2021 with the new Slate
                                                              The new $2.85 million bridge is a partnership project with
Quarry Road Bridge to open in mid to late 2021.
                                                              a $512,000 contribution from Council and the remaining
Geggies Road Bridge                                           funding from City of Ballarat and the Federal Government.
                                                              City of Ballarat has managed the construction of the project.
A new $700,000 Geggies Road Bridge in Rokewood will
be constructed with $350,000 from Council and $350,000
from the Federal Government’s Bridge Renewal Program.
The $700,000 new unlimited bridge will benefit                    Road Projects in Golden Plains
approximately 30 primarily farming and grazing properties,        Construction will soon begin
allowing light and heavy vehicles full access to these
                                                                  on the following road projects:
important work sites.
The existing 2.5 tonne load-limited Geggies Road Bridge in        Meredith-Shelford Road
Rokewood currently prohibits future expansion of existing         Works to widen 2.2km of Meredith-Shelford Road
livestock businesses in the nearby area. Families who use         from Henderson’s Road to Lower Plains Road. The
the local school bus will also benefit, with the new bridge       project is fully funded by the Federal Government’s
to cut out the current 10km daily detour to avoid the             Road to Recovery Program.
existing old bridge.
Construction will begin in early 2021 with the new                Shelford-Mt Mercer Road
Geggies Road Bridge to open in mid to late 2021.                  Works to widen and seal 3.5kms of Shelford-Mt
                                                                  Mercer Road from Grahams Road to Rices Road, with
Reserve Road Bridge                                               guard rails installed. This project is fully funded by the
A new unrestricted double lane concrete bridge will               Federal Government’s 2020-21 Black Spot Program.
replace the existing aged, load-limited single lane Reserve
                                                                  Russells Bridge Road
Road Bridge in Rokewood.
                                                                  Works along 2km section near Parker Road at
The new Reserve Road Bridge will allow heavier and
                                                                  Russells Bridge to reduce speed limit to 60km/h,
oversize farm machinery and vehicles to travel across
                                                                  and install additional chevron alignment markers,
the Kuruc A Ruc Creek at this location. With a 100-year
                                                                  raised reflective pavement markers and guide
design life, the new bridge project was identified in
                                                                  posts. A barrier and guard rail will also be
Councils 10-year replacement program.
                                                                  installed. This project is fully funded by the Federal
                                                                  Government’s 2020-21 Black Spot Program.

8 || Golden
8    Golden Plains
            Plains Shire Gazette || ISSUE
                   Shire Gazette    ISSUE 6,
                                          6, 2020
                                             2020
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
ROAD AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS

New Road and Community Projects for 2021
Upgraded playground in the north, a new bridge                 In early October, the Federal Government announced Council
replacement project in the centre, and an                      would receive an additional $1,512,680 from its Local Roads
                                                               and Community Infrastructure Program. The program is part
improved cricket net facility in the south – these             of the Federal Government’s COVID-19 response to help
are some of the infrastructure projects that                   local councils support jobs and businesses by delivering more
have been brought forward to be delivered in                   shovel-ready projects by 31 December 2021.
Golden Plains Shire next year, thanks to further               In November, Council endorsed allocating this funding to
investment from the Federal Government.                        seven valuable road and community infrastructure projects
                                                               to be completed by the end of next year:

 Replace guardrails at various            Upgrade Enfield Playground:               Garibaldi intersection upgrade:
 locations: $200,000                      $250,000                                  $250,000
 This project will fund the               Council’s 10-year Play Space Strategy     The Buninyong – Mt Mercer/Hardies
 replacement and installation of          identified several playgrounds            Hill intersection has been identified
 new guardrails on a number of            requiring renewal to improve safety       as requiring an upgrade on a blind
 bridges across the Shire, including in   and increase the play value of the        curve and de-acceleration lane.
 Rokewood, Happy Valley, Werneth,         sites. In line with the strategy, this    Design work on the upgrade has
 Meredith, Haddon, Inverleigh,            funding adds the Enfield playground       already commenced, and this funding
 Piggoreet and Linton.                    to next year’s upgrade list.              will complete the project.

 Berringa intersection upgrade:           Bannockburn Skate Park                    Paddys Gully Road Bridge
 $250,000                                 upgrade: $99,900                          Replacement, Rokewood
 With multiple road approaches, this      This project will rejuvenate and          Junction: $318,680
 project will fund the upgrade of the     upgrade the Bannockburn Skate Park        The ageing single span timber bridge
 intersection of Derwents Jacks Road/     and address public safety and security    is currently limited to 10 tonnes and
 Snow Gum Road/Reef Road/Chromes          issues at the site and in the wider       is in poor condition. The $318,680
 Road in Berringa to improve safety.      precinct. This $99,900 funding from       will go towards the $650,000
 As with the Garibaldi intersection       the second round of LRCI program will     replacement project and will require
 upgrade, design work has already         fund lighting, landscaping, artwork,      Council to allocate the remaining
 commenced.                               rubbish bins and project management       funding in its 2021-22 budget.
                                          works, following Council previously
 Lethbridge Cricket Net                   receiving $100,000 from the first         To stay up-to-date with the
 Upgrade: $145,000                        round of the Federal Government’s         construction and delivery
                                          Local Roads and Community                 of these projects, read
 The $145,000 project, including
                                          Infrastructure (LRCI) program, and        Council’s news stories at
 design, construction and project
                                          a $250,000 grant from the Victorian       goldenplains.vic.gov.au or
 management costs, will deliver
                                          Government’s Community Crime              follow Golden Plains Shire
 an upgraded cricket net at the
                                          Prevention Program.                       Council on Facebook, Twitter,
 Lethbridge Recreation Reserve.
                                                                                    Instagram and LinkedIn.

   Building Across the Shire                        These funded projects are on track to be delivered by 30 June 2021:
                                                    •   Replacement of Reserve Road Bridge, Rokewood
    If the Local Roads and Community                •   Maude Recreation Reserve/Lookout water supply
    Infrastructure funding sounds                   •   Playground renewals in Dereel, Linton, Garibaldi and Haddon
    familiar, that’s because Council                •   Inverleigh Female Friendly Change Rooms
    received $1.33 million from the                 •   Bannockburn Skate Park Upgrade
    first round of the program earlier              •   Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub in Bannockburn
    this year.                                      With our fast population growth, Council is proactive in lobbying
                                                    for Government investment in our Shire, and is looking forward
                                                    to completing and opening these projects next year.

                                                                                   ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 9
Gazette ISSUE 6, 2020 - Golden Plains Shire Council
YOUTH PROJECTS

Supporting Our Young People
Council is pleased to deliver two new projects for young people, located in the growing
south near the Shire’s only high school and welcoming youth from across Golden Plains.

The Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub Bannockburn Skate Park Upgrade
Council welcomes the recent announcement that the                A $449,900 upgrade will significantly improve safety and
Victorian Government will contribute $271,032 towards            skate elements at the Bannockburn Skate Park in 2021.
the Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub project.

The $562,000 Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub project will
see the redevelopment and relocation of a Council portable
office into a vibrant facility that will provide inclusive,
innovative and accessible programs and services for young
people in a growing community.
Located at the Bannockburn Recreation Precinct, opposite
the Shire’s only high school, Bannockburn College P-12,
the Youth Hub will support improved health, social,
education and employability outcomes, and provide
stronger connections between the local community
and services young people need.
The Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub is a partnership
projects, supported by $271,032 from the Victorian
Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. In June, the                                                              Bannockburn Skate Park.
Victorian Government added Golden Plains Shire Council
and the five other members of the Peri Urban Group of            The project will rejuvenate and upgrade the Bannockburn
Rural Councils (PUGRC) to the Growing Suburbs Fund.              Skate Park and address public safety and security issues
The fund was established by the Victorian Government             at the site and in the wider precinct. The project will
in 2015 to fund community infrastructure projects in             incorporate a safe, accessible and modern design to
10 fast-growing council areas of Melbourne.                      maximise site usability and ownership, while supporting
                                                                 local economic activity.
In addition, Council received a significant local contribution
from Bannockburn & District Connected Communities                New skate elements including ramps and jumps will be
and $100,000 from the Federal Government’s Local Roads           installed, as well as a shade shelter, drinking fountain, rock
and Community Infrastructure program.                            bollards, bicycle locking stands, bag storage and safety
                                                                 signage. Resurfacing of the existing concrete slab, with
Council has also made a $90,720 in-kind contribution of          landscaping and electrical works will also be included as
the portable structure, which will be relocated from its         part of the project, as well as new lighting, landscaping,
Bannockburn office to serve as the new youth hub. The            artwork and rubbish bins.
portable building previously housed Council staff who
have moved into the Golden Plains Civic Centre, and is           The Bannockburn Skate Park upgrade is funded by
the second office portable to be repurposed from the             $250,000 from the Victorian Government’s Community
site, following the transformation of the first into female      Safety Infrastructure Grants program and $199,900 from
friendly change rooms at Linton Recreation Reserve last          the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community
year.                                                            Infrastructure Program.
                                                                 In 2019, Council was pleased to open the upgraded
                                                                 Smythesdale Skate Park in the north of the Shire,
                                                                 which was a partnership project between Council
                                                                 and the Victorian Government.

10 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
SPORT AND ACTIVE RECREATION

Building for the Community
Two popular local sport and recreation reserves will receive significant upgrades in 2021,
following the confirmation of funding grants in August 2020.

   Inverleigh Change                                         The Victorian Government has contributed $1.52
                                                             million from its Community Sport Infrastructure
   Rooms Upgrade                                             Stimulus Program to the change rooms. To complete
                                                             the project, Council has allocated $177,700 from the
   Construction will start on the Inverleigh                 Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community
   Change Room Upgrade project in 2021.                      Infrastructure Program and the Inverleigh Sporting
                                                             Complex Committee of Management and the
   The $1,777,000 upgrade of Inverleigh Sporting             Inverleigh Football and Netball Club also contributed
   Complex will deliver two new female friendly/             $72,000 to the project.
   unisex change rooms and umpire change rooms with
   supporting amenities, including first aid and storage     The new change rooms will add to the upgrade of the
   spaces. Two existing change rooms will also be            social rooms that have been fully funded by $500,000
   refurbished and a new septic system installed as          from the Federal Government. The Inverleigh Football
   part of this extensive project.                           & Netball Club advocated to the Federal Government
                                                             for the upgrade of the social rooms which will cater for
   Home to the Inverleigh Football and Netball Club          increased activity at the Inverleigh Sporting Complex,
   (the Hawks) and the Inverleigh Cricket Club (the          fuelled by the lighting upgrade delivered at the site
   Kookaburras), the new and refurbished change rooms        early last year.
   will support greater participation in sport and active
   recreation in Inverleigh. Players from visiting local     The new change and social rooms join an impressive
   teams will also enjoy the upgraded facilities at the      list of works that have been completed at the
   Inverleigh Sporting Complex.                              Inverleigh Sporting Complex in the past few years
                                                             including the brand new netball courts, the oval
                                                             lighting upgrade and new cricket nets.

   Bannockburn Soccer Facility                               To deliver the projects, the Victorian Government
                                                             has invested $464,535 from its World Facilities Game
   The Bannockburn Soccer Facility will have                 Fund, following the successful grant application from
                                                             Council. This contribution partners with the Federal
   new change rooms and lights in 2021.
                                                             Government’s $832,000 election commitment to
   The $1,296,535 Bannockburn Soccer Facility Change         deliver the full project.
   Rooms Project will deliver two new female friendly/
                                                             The second pitch change rooms and lights completes
   unisex change rooms with a referee change room, first
                                                             the soccer infrastructure projects in Stage Two of the
   aid room and dedicated storage area to service the
                                                             Bannockburn Recreation precinct masterplan. Along
   recently constructed second soccer pitch. The project
                                                             with the Bannockburn Soccer Pavilion built in 2017
   also includes Football Federation Victoria night match
                                                             and the lights and work on the first pitch in 2014, this
   compliant sports lighting on the second pitch and
                                                             reserve has received more than $3 million in funding
   perimeter fencing.
                                                             over the past six years and been transformed into a
   Home to the Golden Plains Soccer Club (the Eagles)        quality sporting facility for local soccer players and
   with male and female senior and junior players from       supporters.
   many towns in the Shire, the completion of this project
   will support greater use of the second pitch at the
   facility and increase participation in sport and active
   recreation in Golden Plains Shire.

                                                                                ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 11
SUSTAINABILITY & ENVIRONMENT

                                                                   Gorse Control and the VGT
                              Sharing the Shire                    Gorse is a huge problem
                              with Snakes                          in the northern part of
                                                                   our municipality, with the
                              In Golden Plains Shire, we live
                                                                   control of gorse a real
                              side-by-side with a large snake
                              population and particularly
                                                                   challenge for land owners.
                              in the summertime, it’s              The Victorian Gorse Task Force (VGT) is here to help. The VGT
                              important to be alert and            is a community advisory taskforce, funded by Agriculture
                              have a snake plan.                   Victoria, who supports public and private landowners
                                                                   in their community-led efforts to reduce gorse across
  As part of your snake plan:                                      Victoria. To educate communities on the negative impacts
  • Have local snake catchers’ contact details in your             of gorse and how to manage it, the VGT produces effective,
    phone;                                                         educational, and supportive gorse management programs.
  • Cover all holes leading to your house and garage;              This includes community field days and expos, delivering an
  • Maintain a tidy garden;                                        annual community grants program, and producing resources
                                                                   landowners and land managers can access anytime.
  • Block cavities in wall structures;
                                                                   For a snapshot of gorse management techniques, the VGT
  • Place rodent bait around your house yearly to deter
                                                                   also has five short demonstration videos on its website and
    rodents from attracting snakes; and
                                                                   YouTube account that detail control methods and how to
  • Keep your chicken pen tidy and place mesh around it.           best work with your neighbours. They are a short, sharp
  Remember, it is against the law to kill snakes.                  easy watch and are still packed full of information.
  Fortunately, there are professionals that are highly             For more information on gorse, online resources and
  skilled in catching snakes. If you come across a snake,          upcoming virtual events, please visit the VGT website at
  stay calm and move out of harm’s way before calling              www.vicgorsetaskforce.com.au, find VGT on Facebook
  your local snake catcher.                                        or contact the Extension officer Brydie Murrihy on
                                                                   0428 335 705.

    Local Landcare
    beating Rabbits                                         Need a
    The Maude and District Landcare Group
    and Batesford, Fyansford, Stonehaven
                                                            Compost
    Landcare Group are running their annual
    community rabbit baiting programs in
                                                            Bin?
    early February 2021.                                    Golden Plains
    These programs supply pindone-baited                    Shire residents can
    carrots to landholders along with expert                purchase a compost
    advice on the best practices for rabbit
    baiting to maximise the effectiveness of
                                                            bin for their home
    the program.                                            through Council.
    The program involves collecting carrot                  Compost bins are available at wholesale prices in two sizes:
    baits from Landcare on three separate                   • 220 L: $39 • 400 L: $49
    days (two free feeds and one baited feed).              To order a bin, simply call the Customer Service team on
    To participate in these programs, contact:              5220 7111 or visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/compost to
    Maude and District Landcare Group -                     download and fill out the Compost Bin Order form.
    maudeanddistrictlandcare@gmail.com                      If you need help setting up your new compost bin, there is
    Batesford, Fyansford, Stonehaven                        tutorial information and an instructional video on Council’s
    Landcare Group - info@bfslandcare.org                   website at the link above.

12 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
COUNCIL NEWS

    Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays
    On behalf of all Councillors and staff, Golden Plains Shire Council wishes all
    residents and visitors a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Council Festive Season Closures
Golden Plains Shire Council will have                         Council’s Kindergarten Services in Bannockburn, Teesdale,
altered hours during the Christmas and                        Rokewood, Inverleigh and Meredith will be closed by Friday
New Year holiday period.                                      18 December, 2020 and programs will recommence from
                                                              Friday 29 January, 2021.
The Customer Service Centres at Bannockburn and
                                                              Bannockburn Children’s Service will close from 12pm,
Smythesdale will close at 5pm, Thursday 24 December
                                                              Thursday 24 December, 2020. Kardinia Early Learning Inc.
2020, and will re-open at 8.30am, Monday 4 January,
                                                              will commence operating at Bannockburn Family Services
2021. Essential services will be available in this period,
                                                              Centre the week of 4 January 2021.
in case of an emergency. If you need urgent assistance,
please call 5220 7111 and follow the prompts.                 The Rokewood Transfer Station will be closed on Sunday
The Bannockburn Family Services Centre including              27 December, 2020 and re-open for normal operational
Maternal and Child Health Service and Active Ageing           hours on Sunday 3 January, 2021.
and Inclusion Services will also close at 5pm, Thursday       For more information on holiday operations and
24 December, 2020 and re-open for normal operational          services, please visit Council’s website in mid-December:
hours from Monday 4 January, 2021. A number of                goldenplains.vic.gov.au
Community Care workers will deliver essential
personal care during the holiday period, and Maternal
and Child Health will also deliver essential services            Shop Golden Plains
on designated dates.                                             This festive season, please remember to shop local
Maternal and Child Health consultation from Meredith,            for food and gifts. It’s been a tough year for local
Teesdale, Inverleigh and Rokewood Early Years facilities         businesses and keeping money in our Shire will
will recommence from Monday 4 January 2021 by                    support jobs and the economic recovery in 2021.
appointment only.

                                             Normal Collection Day              Christmas / New Year Collection Day
   GARBAGE AND                               Wednesday 23 December, 2020        Wednesday 23 December, 2020
   RECYCLING COLLECTION                      Thursday 24 December, 2020         Thursday 24 December, 2020
   There are changes to Council’s
   waste and recycling collection            Friday 25 December, 2020           Saturday 26 December, 2020
   service over the Christmas and
   New Year holiday period.                  Monday 28 December, 2020           Monday 28 December, 2020
   Refer to the table below for your
   revised collection day during the         Tuesday 29 December, 2020          Tuesday 29 December, 2020
   festive season, and please remember       Wednesday 30 December, 2020        Wednesday 30 December, 2020
   to place your bins out the night
   before your collection day.               Thursday 31 December, 2020         Thursday 31 December, 2020

                                             Friday 1 January, 2021             Saturday 2 January, 2021

                                                                                 ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 13
COMMUNITY NEWS

Recognising
Achievement in Sport
Have you represented Victoria or Australia
in sport and active recreation?
Council has a policy on recognising athletes who have
been selected or win at State level or above competitions.
If this is you, we’d love to hear your story. Please contact
Council’s Recreation team via enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au
or 5220 7111.
                                                                      Ready, Set, Play!
                                                                      Last year, Council finalised its 10-year Play Space
    IT Grants for Kindergartens                                       Strategy for Golden Plains Shire.
    Golden Plains Shire Council welcomes                              With engagement from the community, several local
    the Victorian Government’s recent IT                              playgrounds were identified to be in need of upgrades
    grants to five local kindergartens.                               to improve safety and increase the play value of these
                                                                      locations.
    In September, Council secured a $6,958 grant                      Council has allocated funds from Round 1 of the
    from the Victorian Government’s Building Blocks                   Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community
    Improvement 2020-21 Information Technology                        Infrastructure (LRCI) program to deliver playground
    program. This funding will provide new IT equipment               upgrades in 2021 in the following towns:
    at five Council-operated Kindergarten Services
    in Golden Plains Shire. Council’s kindergartens in                • Garibaldi
    Teesdale, Inverleigh, Meredith and Bannockburn                    • Haddon
    will purchase new computers, and the Rokewood                     • Linton
    kindergarten will receive a new iPad and printer.                 • Dereel
    This grant funding will ensure improved access                    Council also allocated fund from Round 2 of the LRCI
    and support children’s learning in the kindergarten               program to upgrade the play space at Harrison Reserve,
    environment, and enable Council’s dedicated                       Enfield.
    educators to connect more effectively with families
                                                                      Council understands the value of quality local
    in supporting the continuity of children’s learning
                                                                      playgrounds and hopes the families of, and visitors to,
    at home.
                                                                      these towns will enjoy the new improved play facilities.

                                                               Join in the festivities from 4 to 9pm on Thursday 17 December
                                                               at the Bannockburn Heart, Byron Street.
                                                               The Twilight Market is a one-stop shop for all your Christmas
                                                               needs: fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, free range meats,
                                                               vegan treats and bespoke gifts direct from the farmers, makers,
                                                               artists and gourmet provedores of our region. While you stock
                                                               up on farm-fresh produce for your festive feast or last minute
                                                               Christmas shopping, sample a chilled craft beer, a glass of local
                                                               wine or even a cocktail, while enjoying live music and great food.
The Golden Plains Twilight Market is back                      COVID-safe measures will be in place at the event, with more
for another year with an evening of food,                      information available at goldenplains.vic.gov.au closer to the
                                                               event. To stay up-to-date with the latest from the Golden
fun and fine crafts just before Christmas.
                                                               Plains Farmers’ Market, follow the market on Facebook:
                                                               facebook.com/goldenplainsfarmersmarket.

14 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | ISSUE 6, 2020
EVENTS & ENGAGEMENT

Your Council.                                                   Draft Community
                                                                Engagement Policy
Your Say.
Council is committed to engaging with
residents on decisions that affect their lives
and we want to hear from you!
In early 2021, community engagement will open on the
Council Plan 2021-2025 and Council hopes all residents
will take an interest and share their ideas to develop a
robust plan for the next four years.
Currently, there are three open community consultations:
                                                                Council is seeking public feedback on its Draft
Teesdale Structure Plan                                         Community Engagement Policy as part of its commitment
                                                                to improve how engagement is undertaken by Council.
                                                                As part of new requirements introduced under the
                                                                Local Government Act 2020, all councils are required to
                                                                adopt and maintain a Community Engagement Policy,
                                                                and have one adopted by 1 March 2021. Council’s
                                                                Draft Policy provides a clear and succinct process that
                                                                improves Council’s existing practises to ensure deliberative
                                                                engagement opportunities are well planned, inclusive,
                                                                accessible and appropriate.
                                                                The Draft Policy is available on Council’s website and
                                                                written submissions are welcome until 11 January 2021.
The Teesdale Structure Plan and Planning Scheme
Amendment C92 are now on public exhibition until 25
January 2021.                                                   Draft Access & Inclusion Plan
The Teesdale Structure Plan is a strategic planning             Following community engagement undertaken last year,
document that will guide the long-term growth of Teesdale       Council has developed a Draft Access & Inclusion Plan.
into the future. It has been developed with the local           This strategy will assist Council build a more supportive,
community, with engagement undertaken in late 2019.             inclusive and accessible community for people of all
The Teesdale Structure Plan was endorsed by Council             abilities and ages.
in April and this consultation process is part of the final     The Draft Plan will be open for public exhibition from
process to incorporate the plan into the Planning Scheme.       mid-December 2020 to 31 January, 2021. In January,
Council’s Strategic Planning team is available to discuss the   Council’s Active Ageing & Inclusion team will also hold
Plan over the phone during business hours at 5220 7111.         a number of in-person consultations on the Draft Plan.
Thank you for everyone who participated in an online
drop-in session on 7 December and an after-hours phone          Feedback on all these engagements can be sent to
consultation on 9 December. There is also an after-hours        enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au or mailed to: Golden Plains
phone consultation on Monday 14 December.                       Shire, PO Box 111, BANNOCKBURN VIC 3331. To find out
The Structure Plan and relevant documents are available         more about any of these projects, visit the Have Your Say
at Council’s website, with written feedback welcome until       page on Council’s website at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/
25 January 2021.                                                consultations. They are also promoted in the Gazette and
                                                                Golden Plains Times, and on Council’s social media.

                                                                                   ISSUE 6, 2020 | Golden Plains Shire Gazette | 15
COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

                                            Rates Payment
                                            All Golden Plains Shire ratepayers received their
                                            2020-21 Rates Notices in the mail last year.
                                            For residents who are signed up to pay their rates by
Customer Service                            instalments, the third payment is due on 28 February
                                            2021. Full payment of the Rates Notice is due on
BANNOCKBURN                                 15 February 2021.
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday             To apply for Council’s COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy
2 Pope Street, Bannockburn                  or discuss your rates payments, please call our Rates
Victoria, 3331.                             team for a confidential conversation on 5220 7111.
SMYTHESDALE
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday
19 Heales Street, Smythesdale               Online Planning Portal
Victoria, 3351.                             There’s now a more efficient way for Golden Plains’ residents and
PHONE                                       businesses to interact with Council’s Planning Department, thanks
P: 5220 7111                                to a new online planning portal.
F: 5220 7100                                Powered by Greenlight, Council’s Permit Manager portal has been extended
POSTAL ADDRESS                              to provide all planning-related activities on the one platform. The online
Golden Plains Shire Council                 portal also makes it easier for all residents to search the publicly available
PO Box 111, Bannockburn,                    planning register and make a submission on an advertised application.
Victoria 3331.                              Customers without Internet access can still request hard copies of forms
                                            by contacting Council’s Planning Department on 5220 7111.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
P: 1300 363 036
P: 5220 7111 (24 Hours)

To receive a copy of the Gazette
                                            Avian influenza update
in large print, call 5220 7111.             Agriculture Victoria has been responding to several detections of avian
                                            influenza across the state, including in Golden Plains Shire.
Council’s Customer Service Centres          There have been no new detections since late August, and in October the
and offices will be closed at 5pm,          housing order for birds ended. However, in order to limit the spread of the
Thursday 24 December, 2020 and              disease, the Restricted Area around Lethbridge and wider Control Area are
will reopen at 8.30am, Monday               still subject to movement controls and permits.
4 January, 2021. The centres and
                                            A permit from Agriculture Victoria is required to move poultry, poultry
offices will also be closed for the
                                            products, equipment or vehicles involved in poultry production into, out of
Australia Day Public Holiday on
                                            or within the Restricted Areas and Control Areas. A permit is also required
Tuesday 26 January, 2021.
                                            for buying, selling or moving eggs, manure and chickens, whether on the side
COVER: Pictured from left to right:         of the road, from your property, your local store, social media or at markets.
Liam Kerr, Claire Keefe, Rory Kerr          It is illegal to move these products without a permit.
and Hunter McDonald enjoy the                                   The strains of avian influenza in this incident are not a risk to the
new hard wicket at Linton                                       public. It rarely affects humans unless there is direct and close
Recreation Reserve and celebrate                                contact with sick birds. There are no food safety issues identified;
the announcement of the new                                     properly cooked chicken meat and eggs are safe to eat.
cricket training facility.                                      This information is correct as of 27 November 2020.
Photo courtesy of Golden                    To                  stay up-to-date with the latest restrictions and to apply
Plains Times.                               for                 a permit, call Agriculture Victoria on 4334 2715 or visit
                                                                agriculture.vic.gov.au/avianflu

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