APRIL – JULY 2010

The hisToric GaTakers building and courtyard is now the Fraser Coast’s newest cultural

venue after a $1.6 million renovation of Maryborough’s oldest surviving commercial building.

Mayor Mick Kruger is encouraging residents to visit the newly opened art centre in the city’s historic Portside precinct to see first hand a transformation of classic and artistic proportions.

“The once jaded old building – built back in 1868 to store wine and spirits – is now a classic object of art in itself,” Cr Kruger said.

The reaction at the centre’s public open day on 27 March was unanimous praise for both the renovations and the centre’s exhibitions.

“Come to see the art displayed within the building, but also to see the building itself, the courtyard with its dramatic artwork. Experience their history and immerse yourself in Gatakers’ character and charm,” he said.

Renowned South Australian painter Garry Duncan has the honour of being Gatakers Artspace’s inaugural feature artist.

Mr Duncan’s paintings, inspired by his explorations of the wilds of the Northern Territory, the majestic beauty of Tasmania and the ancient passage of the Murray River, will be on display until the end of May. Mr Duncan will also host a four day master class at the Artspace from 6 to 9 May.

The program for 2010 includes exhibitions by regional artists Erica Neat and Rolf Fieber, as well as a permanent rotating display of Council’s art collection.

Admission to the Artspace at 311 Kent Street is free. The opening hours are 10am–4pm Monday to Friday and 10am–1pm on weekends.

Gatakers Artspace is also seeking volunteer ambassadors. Training will be provided. Phone 4190 5723 to register your interest.

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Gatakers Artspace

– witness an artistic

transformation

shapinG up projects improving our lifestyle | Too Good To wasTe a recycling revolution is underway >>>

Show Special

Free children’s tickets to the Fraser coast

Show

2 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Customer Service personified

Since launching its Customer Service Awards in August 2009, Council has recognised six outstanding staff members who have been praised for services ranging from providing town plans, explaining the requirements for pool fencing, organising waste services for the Fraser Coast Show, reuniting a dog with its owner and finding grave sites. As one customer put it, Glenn, Megan, Laurence, Brenda, Jane and Maree you are “customer service personified”.

If someone at Council has given you exceptional customer service, why not nominate them for a Customer Service Award. Details and nomination forms are on our website.

Council’s IT officer, Sean Wrigley

Building services on the move

Council’s Building and Plumbing Regulatory Services and Wide Bay Building Consultants (Building Certifiers) have relocated to 3/145 Old Maryborough Road, Pialba. Contact details are:

PO Box 1152, Pialba Qld 4655 Ph 1300 79 49 29 F 4197 4681

PAGE

3 Stay for Show Special

4 Projects shape our region

5 Recycling revolution

7 Councillor updates

10 Environmental news

12 What’s on

You can subscribe to Council’s monthly eNewsletter by logging on to our website and clicking on the Council e-news icon.

You can also leave feedback about this publication or other Council activities by clicking on the Have your say quicklink.

Contact usph: 1300 79 49 29Fraser Coast Regional Council PO Box 1943, Hervey Bay Q 4655 F (07) 4197 4455 e enquiry@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

administration centreshervey Bay

77 Tavistock StreetTorquay Q 4655 Open 8.15am – 4.45pm (receipting until 4.30pm)

Maryborough

431 – 433 Kent Street, Maryborough Q 4650 Open 8.15am–4.45pm (receipting until 4.30pm)

Tiaro

Tom Gee Memorial Library Forgan Terrace, Tiaro Q 4650 Open 8.30am – 4.30pm (closed 1pm – 1.30pm)

after hours

Phone 1300 79 49 29

publication details: Fraser Coast Living is produced and published by the Fraser Coast Regional Council and delivered quarterly to all residents and businesses. This publication is printed on 100% recycled paper. The cost of this publication is 43 cents per copy which includes printing and delivery by Australia Post. disclaimer: Every effort was taken to ensure the information in this newsletter was correct at the time of printing.

The Council has had to re-examine its five and 10-year plans and the timing of projects, taking into account funding withdrawals and rising costs.

We are continuing to push for in-house savings and during our budget deliberations we need to determine how far our income from rates will stretch to fund the services and facilities that ratepayers expect in the coming year.

We must also continue to fund major projects and infrastructure maintenance to ensure we do not burden future generations.

The Fraser Coast Regional Council budget will be brought down in June. We will do our best to ensure it is equitable and as fair on ratepayers as we can make it given the difficulties we currently face.

cr Mick krugerMayor Fraser coast regional council

COunCillOrs and sTaFF are now very involved in preparing the 2010/11 budget.

We are juggling the need to provide infrastructure and services for a growing region with falling state and federal government grants, which have in some cases, disappeared completely.

As you are all aware, times are still tough and costs continue to escalate. While we are confident that the tide has turned on the financial crisis we still have some way to go to get back to the situation we previously enjoyed.

data’s a record job

Well over 8.5 million data files have been converted by Council’s IT department as it worked to link the four computer systems of the previous councils into one system that catalogues all records right down to the pets registered at an address.

The amount of data files converted during the past two years included over 45,000 addresses, 6,641 pets, 1.63 million charges and over 6.6 million transactions.

www.new look website

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au – Council’s website has a fresh new look after a major revamp to make it easier to navigate, more appealing and more interactive.

There are new enhanced features, along with favourites such as Have your say, photo gallery and Council vacancies as well as details of all Council’s services and facilities and the latest news and events.

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au April – July 2010 3

Deadline extended for photographssHuTTerBugs nOW Have until 1 June to get their entries in for the annual Fraser Coast Regional Council photographic competition.

More than $2000 in prize money is on offer in the annual Fraser Coast Regional Council photographic competition.

The theme is My Fraser Coast.

Just capture what typifies the Fraser Coast for you – the fish you see when diving on the artificial reef, laughter on the sports field, horses munching on green grass after the rain, your family swimming at the beach, the character of Maryborough’s historic buildings...

Entry conditions, forms and further information are available on our website under COMMuniTy > 2010 Fraser Coast Regional Council Photographic Competition.

When words aren’t enough …Looking for that perfect gift? Copies of “A Thousand Words – a photographic journey of the Fraser Coast” are now available from Fraser Coast visitor information Centres.

BE A PART of the most comprehensive strategic planning exercise ever undertaken on the Fraser Coast.

The “Fraser Coast 2031 – Sustainable Growth Strategy” launched recently by Council will form the key strategic framework of the new planning scheme for the whole of the Fraser Coast Regional Council area.

Council is currently undertaking a number of individual planning studies before putting a draft vision for our region out for public consultation.

what will Fraser coast 2031 mean for me?

You are invited to think about these questions:

What is the community’s vision and aspirations for the next 20 years?

Where should we direct population growth and how should we accommodate new residents?

“My message to all is ‘stay and play’,” Mayor Mick Kruger said. “Spend a day or two at our regional show, and use the rest of the weekend to go somewhere you’ve never been, or experience something you haven’t done before on the Fraser Coast.”

You don’t have to look far for ideas – or for other great special offers just for locals.

www.ourfrasercoast.com.au is your guide to our most famous attractions and hidden gems, with discovery trails, experiences and “Staycations” offers for locals and visiting friends and relatives.

To get a free child’s ticket to the Fraser Coast Show go to www.ourfrasercoast.com.auclick on show staycations.

The Show Staycations special is a joint marketing initiative of Council and the Fraser Coast Show Society. Fraser Coast Regional Council is proud to be a major sponsor of the Fraser Coast Show.

What services need to be planned for and how do we provide these services to our community?

How do we preserve our heritage and character and ensure new development contributes to our vision?

How do we ensure we have strong communities which have equitable access to infrastructure and services?

How do we respect our environment, respond to climate change and fulfil our responsibilities to future generations, using sustainability principles?

how can i get involved?

There will be a number of opportunities throughout the course of the project, including: Community surveys; Online Discussion and Forums; Community Workshop; and Project Hotline.

where do i get more information?

Go to ‘Fraser Coast 2031’ on our website for details and to tell us your ideas.

Help plan for our future

stay for a showcase

$12.95

Here is A fantastic chance to experience the best of your amazing backyard!

Start with the Fraser Coast Show and spend the show long weekend discovering and enjoying the delights on your doorstep.

As a generous incentive, residents who sign up to the Show Staycation special on Council’s website will receive a free children’s pass for every paying adult to the Fraser Coast Show.

The show, from 20–22 May, is a showcase of our remarkable region, with three full days and three full nights of entertainment, displays, rides, rodeo and the largest ever equestrian program.

Fireworks on Thursday and Friday nights, the australian living History interactive show, a free Robinson Family Circus, precision driving show, magic shows and a revamped grand parade spectacular are all part of a packed program.

4 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

MaryBOrOugH’s BOnd sTOre Museum – with its earthen floors and original handmade bricks from 1864 – will be the setting for an exciting new interactive sound and light display showing the arrival of the region’s first immigrants.

Funding for the project, which also includes installing timber flooring and disability access, will come from the Regional and Local Community infrastructure Program (rlCiP).

The program is part of the Federal Government’s Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan which provides funds to local authorities to build and modernise community infrastructure. under the past two rounds, Fraser Coast regional Council has received over $1.5 million for more than 40 projects across the region.

Latest RLCIP Projects (round Two) underway:

Rural upgrade to the water supply at river Heads reserve

Storage shed at Torbanlea

Construction of coastal township entrance statements at Maaroom, Boonooroo, Tuan, Poona and Tinnanbar

Playground upgrades at Teebar, Brooweena, Owanyilla and Maaroom

urban hervey Bay

upgrades to Hervey Bay sports Grounds including construction of a turf embankment and fencing at the Hervey Bay Sports & Leisure Park

Shade shelter, cricket nets and safety fencing at Walkers Road

Outdoor seating at Hervey Bay’s netball facility

Shade structures along the Link Mobility Corridor with stainless fittings and lighting at Stephenson Street, Denmans Camp Road, Bideford Street and Ann Street

BBQ area at gatakers Bay, Point vernon

projects big and small making a difference across the Fraser coast

Shaping our region

Recently completed rlCiP (round One) projects include:Extension of Fraser Coast Airport car park

exercise equipment at Hervey Bay and Maryborough

Playground equipment at Tinnanbar and Tiaro

shelter sheds and BBQ equipment at Maaroom

Bush Chapel in Queens Park, Maryborough

Upgrade of the boardwalk at Fay Smith Wetlands, Maryborough

Maria Creek Bridge, Howard

Three bus shelters, Hervey BaySignage along the Tiaro Section of the Bicentennial National Trail

Maryborough

new BBQ, tables, chairs, drinking fountain, shelter, paving and turf for Maryborough’s Anzac Park

Refurbishment of the John Anderson Municipal Library in Maryborough

Refurbishment of the historic Bond Store basement

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au April – July 2010 5

information on latest shows and bookings call (07) 4122 6000or go to www.brolgatheatre.org

neW TiMes FOr Granville, Tinana, Bauple and Yengarie refuse facilities start on 1 July 2010.

Finalising the new times follows extensive consultation with the users of the facilities.

Open times are:Yengarie, Bauple and Tinana: 7am to noon on Friday, Saturday and Monday and noon to 5pm on Sundays;Granville: Noon to 5pm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

THe BrOlga THeaTre takes centre stage in July as the Fraser Coast celebrates the 10th anniversary of the region’s entertainment and cultural heart.

In the past decade, over 300,000 people have watched almost 600 acts by the best of local, Australian and international performers, including Julie anthony, Human nature, John Williamson and the Australian and Russian Ballets.

The Brolga Theatre has proved its star potential in that time, earning rave reviews as one of the leading performance venues in regional Australia.

Stage and screen veteran Jon English was one of the first to perform at the Brolga in 2000 and will return to perform his latest show as part of a top line-up planned for the Brolga Birthday Festival from 1 July to 10 July.

Celebrations include a Swinging Sixties Morning Melodies featuring Athol Guy from The seekers, a special Queensland Arts Council movie evening with a surprise star guest, performances to showcase the talents of local students, and a matinee and evening concerts on Saturday 10 July reprising the community musicals and commencing with a Dreamtime Segment.

THe MuCH anTiCiPaTed Maryborough recycling centre is now open for business.

The $1.3 million Fraser Coast Recycling Centre and landfill on the Maryborough Hervey Bay road will operate along similar lines to Council’s award winning recycling centre at Nikenbah which last year recovered and diverted 30,000 tonnes of material from going to landfill.

Last year 75,000 tonnes of material went to landfill at Maryborough. Mayor Mick Kruger said the new centre would dramatically cut this amount, cutting costs for ratepayers and cutting our carbon footprint.

Too good to waste

The Maryborough centre will cater for recycled materials from domestic and small commercial operators.

The new shed is divided into areas to deposit steel, cardboard and paper, batteries, chemicals, oil, glass and aluminium.

Household items that can be repaired or re-used can also be left at the centre. If they can be re-used they will be taken to the market area next door.

Council will also offer a free pick up service for large bulky items that can be recycled. Contact Re-use & Recycle on 1300 443 805.

sort and save

Sort the rubbish before you go so that re-useable and recyclable items do not end up in landfill.

If you can recycle 50 percent or more of your load then you will be given a green tag and disposal will be free.

If you can recycle up to 50 percent of the load you will be given a red tag and will receive a discount on the disposal charge. The charge covers the cost of operating the landfill.

The Fraser Coast Recycling Centre and landfill Maryborough will be open seven days a week from 7.30am to 5.15pm (no entry after 5pm).

a new way to recycle is here

Find a treasure at the Market

iT’s aMazing WHaT bargains you might find at the Fraser Coast’s two Reuse Recycle Market Sales Centres in Maryborough and at nikenbah, Hervey Bay.

The sites are managed by community group Re-use & Recycle which provides employment opportunities for locals and returns thousands each year through grants to sports clubs and community groups.

The Hervey Bay centre is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8am-4pm. The Maryborough centre is open Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 8am-4pm.

6 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

council by the numbersIn the last quarter, Council Departments provided the following services:

TOWn Planning aPPliCaTiOns

✔ 211 approvals✘ 9 refusals

in ouT

212 220

82 cats301 dogs3 horses

16 rehomed

171 released to

owners20 to

Hervey Bay Animal

Refuge

4 to Maryborough

Refuge

88 euthanised

86 released to Dog Rescue

1 released to RSPCA

iMPOunded ANIMALS

Bazaar street drainage

Drainage improvements have begun in Bazaar Street, Maryborough, to overcome minor stormwater flooding between ellena and alice streets. underground stormwater pipes and gully traps will be installed and connected to the underground stormwater system in Ellena Street. The $150,000 project should take about five weeks to finish, weather permitting. Motorists are advised to expect traffic disruptions.

Munna creek hall

The Council will work with the Munna Creek Hall and recreation association to chart a course to revamp the old building which was built in 1906. “If the Council and the residents can work together there is hope that we can give the hall a new lease of life,” Mayor Mick Kruger said.

Totness street reconstruction

Totness street, Hervey Bay, between Torquay Road and Denmans Camp Road, will be reconstructed and widened in a $200,000 project which includes a deeper pavement to cope with increased traffic, associated drainage, asphalt overlay. Kerb and channel will be installed on the northern side of the street.

Tinnanbar road upgrade

The bitumen section of the road into the coastal village of Tinnanbar will be extended by one kilometre. The $200,000 project is part of ongoing works by Council to extend the sealed road from the village to the Cooloola Coast Road. Last year the sealed section was extended by a kilometre.

Traffic lights for busy school corner

Where possible, motorists should avoid the intersection of Lennox and Walker streets as staff work on installing traffic signals in April and May. Council has allocated $300,000 to the eight-week project that will improve the safety of students attending St Mary’s school, pedestrians linking to the Brolga Theatre and Queens Park and motorists heading in and out of the Maryborough CBd. The lights will also reduce traffic queues at the intersection, especially during the start and finish of school.

378 babies/children

874 school students

59 adults

iMMunisaTiOns

1,311

Working for you ….

ocean outfall

Three ocean outfalls along the Hervey Bay Esplanade will be replaced as part of a $199,750 project awarded to vdM Bellero. Ocean outfalls opposite the intersection of Guard Street and the Esplanade; between Guard Street and Pilot Street and opposite the intersection of Tavistock Street and the Esplanade will be replaced under the project.

Burrum street roadworks

A $90,000 project will improve sections of Burrum street at Burrum Heads. The project, awarded to Lanson Civil, includes new footpaths, kerb and channel and resurfacing a laneway between shops and the Burrum Heads caravan park, as well as Burrum Street through to the caravan park.

dOg regisTraTiOns

17,720including 1,270 new

dog registrations

liBrary lOans

233,570LIBRARY NEW MEMBERS

1,495

TiarO WILL BE the next town on the Fraser Coast to make a statement, with an impressive entrance sign featuring the famed Mary River turtle.

The design incorporates regional branding with distinct local elements including a stylised pattern representing the Mary River and its endangered turtle.

strong timber panels reflect one of the region’s traditional industries and the addition of cast concrete blockwork and stainless steel uprights complete the dynamic structure.

The sign will be installed on the Bruce Highway at the southern entrance to Tiaro.

It is part of a region-wide signage project with the next phase to include entrance statements at Bauple, Boonooroo, Poona, Tuan, Tinnanbar, Maaroom and river Heads.

Tiaro sure to make an entrance

projects and news from around your neighbourhood.

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au April – July 2010 7

Walk of honour for Burrum’s best FOurTeen OF BurruM’s finest, including an Australian Prime Minister, Australian Member of Parliament, an exceptional sportsman and sportswoman and pioneering families are honoured in the first stage of the Burrum Walk of Achievers.Plaques on steel planter boxes which are in the shape of the coal buckets used in the Burrum mines have been installed in steley street, Howard. The boxes have been decorated with remnants of machinery from the Burrum coalfields and bear photographs and a short note on each achiever.

Fraser Coast historian Margaret Wroe and Marlene Wilson, a long-time researcher from the Maryborough Family History society, researched the nominees with the help of Burrum families.

Burrum residents honoured in the Walk of Achievers:

Top row, from left: The two Miller brothers, Matthew Walker (top), James Roberston (bottom), Abel and Leah Steley, Edward Stafford, Henry Smith and Cecil Snyder. Bottom, from left: Dame Annabelle Rankin, the Rankin family, Eric and Violet Harris, George Hoffman, Andrew Fisher and Hazel Keene.

wetside car parking

Council and Wide Bay Water are working to improve parking at WetSide water park. Options being considered include the installation of grass pavers on sections of seafront Oval. The pavers will allow cars to park on grassed areas without damaging the grass and reducing the area to mud in wet weather. Paved parking is currently available on the seafront Oval extension.

Aviation Centre plans take flight

Establishing the Fraser Coast as an aviation centre of excellence is a priority for Council.

It is halfway through a three month aviation consultancy project which includes the following objectives:

- Investigate and encourage additional domestic and regional air services for Hervey Bay airport

- Develop and introduce key partnerships with airlines, industry bodies, government and stakeholders to support air services attraction activity

- Investigate and provide feedback on the potential for development of a satellite base for aircraft and personnel in the Fraser Coast; and

- Introduce additional aviation business tenants.

Maryborough walk-cycle way

Council has called for tenders to build a new walk-cycle way along Alice Street, Maryborough. It will join up with the new $1.4million pedestrian bridge to be built over the Bruce Highway that will link Maryborough to the TAFE and surrounding residential areas. Work has started on the pedestrian bridge and both projects are scheduled to be finished by July.

Tiaro Medical centre

Council is seeking Federal Government funding to refurbish the former Tiaro Shire Council building to provide a medical centre. The funds sought will supplement money set aside for the project by the former Tiaro Shire Council.

pest bounty on offer

A bounty for feral pigs and wild dogs has been re-introduced across the Fraser Coast. The scalps of wild dogs and feral pigs can be taken to the Fraser Coast Regional Council landfill site in saltwater Creek road, Maryborough, between 7.30am and 1pm, Monday to Friday. Bounty application forms can be downloaded from the pest management page of our website.

Link Mobility corridor extension

Maryborough company JAC Civil has won the tender to build the 1.3km extension of the Link Mobility Corridor from Mcliver street to urraween road in Hervey Bay. The corridor will follow the former rail line parallel to Main Street. The project is jointly funded by Council and the Federal Government. Alternative pedestrian access will be provided during construction which is expected to finish by the end of June. The corridor will then be landscaped and rest points and water bubblers will be installed.

roadworks in Maryborough cBd

Road resurfacing projects in the Maryborough CBD include asphalt resurfacing Wharf Street (between richmond and March); March street (between Wharf and Kent streets) and Richmond Street from Wharf Street to the band hall.

The Federal car park in Kent Street will be resurfaced as part of the project.

All Abilities PlaygroundThe 4000m2 state-of-the-art playground will also include totems marking the Southern Cross, so children can “navigate by the stars”, a maze, an interactive musical turtle and a movement-activated sound feature which plays the sounds of waves crashing and seagulls squawking.

A carpark and toilet facilities beside the playground have been completed. The funds for the project have come from the Fraser Coast Regional Council and the State Government.

a gianT POrPOise and other underwater sea creatures will feature in the new $740,000 All Abilities Playground currently under construction at the seafront Oval extension.

8 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

counciLLor updaTes

dealing with water challengesFraser COasT COunCillOrs recently met informally with the new Board Directors of Wide Bay Water Corporation.

The Board Directors are keen to build a strong relationship with the Fraser Coast Council and this meeting allowed the opportunity for Councillors and Board Directors to interact and gain an understanding of the Directors’ industry interests.

The Chair, Leith Boully, has extensive governance experience as a director and chairperson across a diverse range of industries, and in both public and private sector organisations.

The Board will steer the growth of the Corporation which holds many challenges in dealing with the present and future needs of the water and waste water industry across our region.

Board Directors were escorted on a tour of infrastructure in Hervey Bay including the new $30 million waste water treatment facility at Nikenbah, the Burgowan water treatment plant and the land-based water re-use facilities. The Maryborough infrastructure tour is planned to be in conjunction with the next Board Meeting.

cr Julie arthur water and sewerage portfolio M: 0458 100 228 e: julie.arthur@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

charter to reduce costs, environmental footprintI AM PLEASED that Council is addressing sustainability issues and has recently launched a guide available via the Council website, which provides information to assist us in leaving a smaller footprint, or should I say person print, upon our earth. Council is also developing a sustainability charter to guide a whole of Council response to reducing the cost of our operations by working more sustainably. I am also looking forward to some positive changes along our foreshore this year with a direct effort to reduce exotic weeds and replace them with native ground covers. This will improve the appearance of the foreshore and reduce ongoing maintenance costs.

Don’t forget that if you would like to help maintain an area of foreshore or parklands near your place contact Council so we can introduce you to our Community Environment Program.

By working together we can make our region even more attractive than it already is.

cr sue Brooks environmental sustainability portfolio M: 0409 485 818 e: sue.brooks@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Busy road ahead for infrastructure projectsTHere are CurrenTly over 30 infra-structure projects under way or about to begin across the Fraser Coast, including the $7 million Main Street reconstruction and the multi-million dollar bitumen road resurfacing program.

From April to May, if the weather holds, work will start on several projects which range from drainage works and carpark resurfacing to rebuilding roads and installing kerb and channel.

Just four of those projects – drainage improvements in Bazaar Street, Maryborough; Totness street, Hervey Bay reconstruction; extension to Tinnabar road; and traffic signals at the intersection of Lennox and Walker streets – will cost $850,000.

With so many projects under way there will inevitably be traffic disruptions. We ask motorists to take care when passing through roadworks and follow the directions of traffic controllers to ensure the safety of workers and drivers. Also be aware that traffic conditions will be constantly changing as the projects progress.

cr david dalgleish rural and urban infrastructure portfolio M: 0417 777 194 e: david.dalgleish@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

council works to make our place safeFEELING SAFE IN your own community either during the day or night, is a reasonable expectation of residents. Through the activities of its Community Safety Networks, partnerships with police and security firms and adherence to Crime Prevention Through Environ-mental design (CPTed) principles when providing public facilities, the Fraser Coast Regional Council is making progress to ensure the Fraser Coast is a safer place to live and visit.

Recently I’ve encountered criticism of the brightness of the public lighting as a result of recent refurbishment works in the Maryborough CBD. Research has shown that good lighting in public places is one of the best deterrents to crime. A recognised trouble spot in the past is now a great deal safer for those who have to work and visit this area. That can’t be bad.

cr Barb hovard Business development portfolio M: 0418 797 165 e: barbara.hovard@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

patriotism grows strongTHe Fraser COasT 2031 Sustainable Growth Strategy is progressing well. There will be plenty of information available and considerable opportunity for public input so I urge everyone to take the chance to have their say in what we want for the future of our region. Watch the local media and our website for updates.

Initial work has begun on our Sustainability Charter and I am looking forward to that being launched in the not too distant future.

Although some time ago, I wish to congratulate all the worthy winners of our Australia Day Awards and want to say how much I enjoyed the celebrations i was able to attend at Burrum Heads, Howard and of course, Teebar. it’s pleasing to see how patriotism is growing stronger with each year’s festivities.

Finally, I would like to share one of my favourite quotes from Winston Churchill: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.”

cr debbie hawes strategic policy and sustainability portfolio M: 0458 100 224 e: debbie.hawes@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Building international relationsAT LAST, GATAKERS Artspace is open, and operating, with a lot of enquiries for future displays and exhibitions. I thank everyone for their hard work, and the community for its patience with the recent delays, mostly due to wet weather. An advisory committee, with members from throughout the Fraser Coast, meets regularly to discuss Artspace issues.

One of the recent policies taken to Council was a sister City/Friendship City policy to formalise Council’s position on the agreements which were in place with the former Fraser Coast councils. We have sister city or friendship city arrangements with Leshan in China, Otsuki, Kasukabe and Tome in Japan and Honiara in the solomon islands. a Fraser Coast sister City/Friendship City Committee will be set up with the Mayor and I, two staff members and a community representative – one for each sister city/friendship city. The aim is to build on cultural, educational and economic relationships.

cr Linda harris art and culture portfolio M: 0417 711 993 e: linda.harris@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au April – July 2010 9

Musical marketing for Mary poppinsPLANNING IS WELL under way for the Fraser Coast’s Fantastic Four events season – the World’s Greatest Pub Fest in June, Mary Poppins Festival in July, Whale Festival in August and the Technology Challenge in September.

With Mary Poppins – the Musical being staged in Melbourne later this year we are capitalising on renewed interest in all things Mary Poppins. We are seeking co-operative marketing strategies with the musical producers, developing our unique Mary Poppins experiences and working with regional tourism to promote Maryborough as the birthplace of author PL Travers.

In a strategic move to ensure its future, the World’s Greatest Pub Fest has expanded into a city-wide festival, with music, entertainment and a sixth world record bid.

The Hervey Bay Whale Festival will focus on conservation in 2010. Highlights will include a line-up of talented Australian musicians at a Live Whale Aid Concert and the stunning Illuminated Street Parade.

So mark your diary and celebrate these great events.

cr anne nioa Marketing and Tourism portfolio M: 0418 741 624 e: anne.nioa@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

centre aims to see Fraser coast prosperMOMenTuM is gaTHering for the Fraser Coast’s newest and most innovative project. The Centre for Economic development and enterprise (Cede) is a concept that sees partnerships with the university of southern Queensland, Fraser Coast Regional Council, Chambers of Commerce of the region and a number of key business groups and individual businesses formed to improve the economic potential of our region.

already significant funds have been committed by the partners of the project, led by usQ and Council. We are now seeing others throughout the broader business community investing to enhance our region.

CEDE will, under the guidance of a “Professorial Chair”, work to gather vital research data, market analysis, unite government departments, agencies and other groups, seek external funding and provide an “open door” to new investment and thus increased job opportunities for our region.

This is new and different, but evidence of leadership and decision making – creating an opportunity to grow to greater prosperity!

cr Gerard o’connell, economic development portfolio M: 0438 231 868 e: gerard.oconnell@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Tribute for early Burrum pioneersRECENTLY I ATTENDED a local Neighbour-hood Watch meeting. It was a delight to listen to these dedicated volunteers proudly discussing their role in keeping their local area safe. After the meeting we enjoyed a cuppa and a chat about life in general. Neighbourhood Watch is just one example of dedicated people giving up their time to benefit the wider community. To all the volunteers out there – you should be proud of yourselves – keep up the great work.

i was also in Howard for the celebration of the Burrum District Walk of Achievers. I would encourage everyone to go out to have a look at the planter boxes complete with plaques celebrating the achievements of some of our early Burrum residents. Once again many volunteers were involved with putting this tribute together – a permanent record of how proud we can be of our history.

cr Belinda Mcneven corporate Governance portfolio M: 0417 777 206 e: belinda.mcneven@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Council funding boost for community groupsMariTiMe saFeTy On the Fraser Coast is about to get a boost thanks to the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Community Grants Scheme.

volunteer Marine rescue Hervey Bay successfully applied to Council’s Community Grants program and will receive $5000 to upgrade their radio and membership system, enabling the easier location of vessels in emergency situations and meeting of Coronial Inquiry standards.

Operating from their base at the urangan Boat Harbour, the highly trained crews from Hervey Bay’s volunteer Marine rescue provide the Fraser Coast boating fraternity with a 24 hour emergency rescue service. The volunteer Marine rescue depends almost entirely on community support through membership subscriptions, sponsorships, donations and fundraising events to cover equipment, running costs and maintenance of their two rescue vessels.

Council offers two rounds of the Community Grants Scheme each year and is looking to fund projects and events that deliver significant benefits to the Fraser Coast community. The next round will be in the new financial year.

Other recipients of funding from the Community Grants Scheme are:Point Lookout Croquet ClubTiaro & District Landcare GroupTiaro Pony ClubToogoom Community Associationvolunteer Marine rescue Hervey Bayyoorana Women’s domestic violence & Resource ServiceZephyr Street Performing Arts Community TheatreBurrum Heads amateur Fishing ClubCoast Guard Sandy Straitsextremely disabled War veterans assoc. Central & north QldFraser Coast Historic vehicle ClubFraser Coast Outrigger Canoe ClubGlenwood Progress AssociationHervey Bay Council for the artsHervey Bay Orchid societyHervey Bay seafood Festival associationLions Club of Tiaro & DistrictMaryborough Aboriginal Corporation for Housing & Cultural developmentPoona Fishing CompetitionQld Justices assoc. Hervey Bay Branchriver Heads Progress associationTiaro & District Chamber of CommerceusQ shakespeare in the Park

rain brings mixed blessings and heavy workloadsTHe WeT WeaTHer in past months has put considerable pressure on Council staff who keep our public spaces in excellent condition for residents and visitors to enjoy. The rain was welcome but the growth that resulted pushed the Council’s parks resources to the limit. The amount of rainfall since then has not only produced even more growth, it has also caused damage, creating much more work than is normally required. I applaud the determination and hard work of our park staff. I hope you will all be patient and understanding if the work gets a little behind during the wet weather and I hope you will offer them encouragement and thank them for their good work. I enjoy spending time with my family in our parks, but I do not take our parks for granted because I know how much hard work and knowledge is required to look after them.

cr Les Muckan community and recreation portfolio M: 0407 653 133 e: les.muckan@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

10 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au

residenTs Will Have input into a Shoreline Erosion Management Plan (seMP) for its 112km of open ocean coastline which stretches from Burrum Heads to Tinnanbar.

Council, along with consultants Cardno Lawson Treloar, will hold community consultation meetings across the region. Details will be advertised on our website and in the local media.

aGL action rescue helicopter – you can help THe agl aCTiOn rescue Helicopter (previously known as the Energex Community rescue Helicopter) carries out more than 150 missions in the Fraser Coast region each year, costing around $787,000 annually.

Every mission is free to the patient. But the not-for-profit organisation – which operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – needs supporters to help fund this vital service.

Fraser Coast Regional Council employees are looking at ways to support the AGL Action Rescue Helicopter. you can help too, by making a one-off or regular donation, or asking your employer to organise a direct pay deduction for staff.

For more information go to www.actionrescue.com.au

Shoreline Erosion Management PlanComments will also be able to be lodged via a website or by calling a free call hotline.

A draft SEMP will be placed on public exhibition before a final draft is presented to Council.

The SEMP will set Council’s policy on coastline erosion management and the key actions, recommended works and monitoring it will undertake to meet the policy.

rural numberingCOunCil PrOvided rural addressing is available to all properties in the Fraser Coast region.

This ensures a standard number for all properties to make identification easier, particularly for emergency services where response times could be critical.

Application forms are available from Council’s Customer Service Centres or from our website. There is a $50 application fee for this service.

lOOKing FOr Fun, new skills and to give something to your community? Are you interested in event volunteering?

Fraser Coast Council hosts a calendar of colourful events, including some of Australia’s most distinctive celebrations, such as the Mary Poppins Festival, Technology Challenge and the Whale Festival.

We need volunteers to join the Fraser Coast Events team to help stage its

Make your life eventful

geT THe laTesT advice on how to protect our environment and live sustainably at the click of a mouse.

The Fraser Coast Sustainable Living Guide provides 50 actions you can take to live more sustainably, including low-cost tips on shopping, composting, recycling, energy and water efficiency, along with ideas for home renovations.

There are links to related sites and local businesses which provide products and services that support a sustainable future for the region.

The Sustainable Living Guide is produced by the Natural Strategies Group. It is not a Council publication, however Council is committed to sustainable practices and supports the community’s efforts to live more sustainably. To view the website follow the link to Sustainable Living, under the Community tab of our website.

Live sustainably on the Fraser Coast

events, which also include the weekly Heritage City Markets and regional Christmas celebrations.

There are many reasons to volunteer with Fraser Coast Events: gain new skills and experiences; make a difference to your community; receive reward and recognition; make new friends; receive training – and have fun.

interested? Contact Tom McIntosh on 1300 79 49 29 or email tom.mcintosh@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au April – July 2010 11

winner

“ I love the Fraser Coast with a passion for its beauty and tranquility. The beaches of white sand and shells, the rocks and pools that hold life and mystery for the adventurous and young of heart. The pleasure the safe and inviting ocean can deliver and the havoc she can render when the elements change at the whim of Mother Nature. It has been my home for over fifty-five years and it makes me feel very proud and safe.”

Bev COrnWell from Point vernon is the first winner in the My Fraser Coast promotion that invites residents and visitors to share stories and photographs that capture the essence of the region.

To enter go to www.ourfrasercoast.com.au

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in THe nexT three months there will be six different displays for you to enjoy at the Hervey Bay regional gallery.

From 6 April to 1 May, painting takes centre stage with Fraser Coast artist Ben Gerdsen’s expressionist-style works in the exhibition, Beyond Decorative, and the surrealist images of Norwegian artist Liv Grønlund in Existence.

If textiles and craft are more your style, don’t miss the Hervey Bay Quilters’ exhibition, Quilts – Completely Covered, from 7 May to 5 June. These stunning creations will showcase the talents of more than 50 of our local quilters.

At the same time, you can check out The Wallpaper Project, in which well-known Australian artists have created some way-out wallpaper designs with their art.

From 11 June, soak up the atmosphere of central-western Queensland with Artesian Country, a collection of works by artists from the Barcaldine, Aramac and Jericho regions. The work is accompanied by audio tracks featuring outback larrikin Tom Lockie.

The colourful and quirky paintings of Fraser Coast artist George Kirk will also delight in Our Land in Colour which will open on 11 June.

hervey Bay regional Gallery is open 10am to 4pm Monday to saturday during exhibitions and entry is free. For enquiries, please contact 4197 4210 or email regionalgallery@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

iF yOu are not able to visit during opening hours, the libraries offer a number of after hours options. All branches have an after hours return chute for items to be returned. Books can also be requested or the loan period extended (provided the book is not already overdue) through our website.

Just go to the Library Catalogue page and either join or log in. Your personal login is your library barcode number. If you don’t already have a PIN, contact your library branch so you can be issued with one.

For more information about using the library catalogue, click on the link to Useful Instructions for Using the Catalogue which can be found on the homepage.

It’s positively rewardinga PilOT PrOgraM to encourage positive behaviour in young people will soon be trialled on the Fraser Coast and businesses are being offered the opportunity to participate.

The Positive Ticketing Program rewards positive behaviour by giving out Positive Tickets which can then be exchanged for products from participating businesses.

Council will fund the trial but partners interested in youth development are needed to provide incentives such as sporting goods, electrical or electronic items or other products that young people can keep to remind them that positive behaviour has its rewards.

Participating businesses will be recognised on the tickets and in promotional material.

Examples of positive behaviour could include:

• Holding a door open or helping an elderly person;

• using designated recreation facilities ie: skateboard park instead of public footpaths;

• Helping the police with their enquiries;

• volunteer work;• Fundraising.

Anyone interested in contributing to the Positive Ticketing Program can contact Council’s youth development Officer Sue Lawler on 4197 4330.

Community Development Officer, Patrice Bates, sits among entries for the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Junior Bursary. The aim of the bursary is to encourage and promote the development of cultural and literacy skills in the younger members of our rural communities. Entrants had to make a piece of art representing the theme ‘Water, Waste and Energy’.

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discover more about our region. For a range of discovery trails, self-guided walks and drives

and information on the region’s attractions and events, pick up a free copy of Our Fraser Coast magazine or download it from www.ourfrasercoast.com.au

WoRLd’S GReAteSt PUb feSt• Outrageous costume

carnivale• Almost $4000 in

prize money• Sixth world record bid• Raise money for

Prostate Cancer Foundation

• “Jazz up your Jocks” competition

• Visit historic hotels• Live music, buskers• Free water and rest

stations

posTaGe paidausTraLia

From your CouncilPh: 1300 79 49 29

W H AT ’ S O N W H AT ’ S O N W H A T ’ S O N

May 1–2 30th Annual Bay to Bay Trailable Yacht Race starts at Tin Can Bay – Finishes at urangan Pier1–2 4th Annual River 2 River Bike Ride ride starts at Burrum Heads1–2 Mothers’ Day Craft Fair Hervey Bay rsl6–9 Garry Duncan–Paint Like a Genius Master Class Gatakers Artspace, Maryborough7 Fraser Coast Heritage awards Brolga Theatre, Maryborough7 The Wallpaper Project and Quilts–Completely Covered Hervey Bay regional gallery (until 5 June)8–15 Fraser Island Bird Week Kingfisher Bay, Fraser island15 Talk on Art Hervey Bay regional gallery20–22 Fraser Coast Show Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park30 Sunday in the Park Queens Park, Maryborough

June 11 Our land in Colour and artesian Country Hervey Bay regional gallery (until 10 July)13 World’s Greatest Pub Fest Maryborough’s historic hotels19 Teebar Rodeo Teebar Sport & Recreation Grounds26–27 Qld Motorkhana Championships & Car show Maryborough Showgrounds27 Jazz, Blues & Folk in the Park Pier Park, urangan27 Sunday in the Park Queens Park, Maryborough28 Maryborough Art Festival & Workshops Maryborough City Hall (until 9 July)

July 1–10 Brolga Theatre 10th Anniversary celebrations Brolga Theatre, Maryborough1 Mary Poppins Markets Maryborough CBD, Kent Street4 Mary Poppins Festival in the Park Queens Park, Mary river Parklands &

Wharf Street, Maryborough10–11 Coast Guard Sandy Strait Fishing competition Great Sandy Strait10 Woodcraft Expo Maryborough Showgrounds17 Return of the Whales – Launch Whale Watch Season Hervey Bay Marina17 Fraser Island Challenge Kingfisher Bay resort to eurong Beach resort25 Sunday in the Park Queens Park, Maryborough

June 13 July 4

MAGICAL, MAdCAP MARY PoPPINS MANIA• Poppins characters• Great Nanny Race• Chimney Sweep Challenge• Street theatre, brass bands • Steam trains, antique cars

and penny farthings• Puppets, magicians,

jesters and clowns• Pavement art• Rides and traditional

children’s games• Grand costume parade• Prizes and giveaways

Portside,Maryborough

Get the word out about your event. submit your community event or meeting on the Fraser coast events website or call 1800 214 789.

www.worldsgreatestpubfest.com www.marypoppinsfestival.com.au

A quirky take on the Aussie tradition

Softdrink and mid strength alcohol highly encouraged.

For all your events news

www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au