LOCKHART SHIRE NEWSLETTER October 2016 Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability

mail@lockhart.nsw.gov.au (02) 69205305 www.lockhart.nsw.gov.au

Mayors Report Page 3 Council Snippets Page 4

www.facebook.com/LockhartShireCommunity

Cover Photo Winner Katrina Slocum

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Council’s Helping With All Abilities As part of Council‟s All Abilities Action Plan development, it has facilitated Daniel Gooden to undertake work experience with Lockhart‟s Parks & Garden staff. Daniel works each Monday assisting with emptying street bins, checking parks, cleaning BBQ‟s and attend to Galore Hill. Daniel has previously done a 12-month placement at Council, and now through

support of Valmar Support Services is undertaking a second stint here at Council. With his infectious and bubbly personality, Daniel is great to have around and all the staff love having him in their team.

Peter and Elayne Yates at The Local Government Conference receiving Peter‟s Merit Award

The last day to return your completed Community Survey is 4.00pm, Friday, 4 November 2016. Please let us take up 5 minutes of your time to complete the

Council invites residents to provide input into a number of its initiatives by completion of a survey on the following: Review of Community Strategic Plan Disability Inclusion Action Planning Proposed Special Rate Variation The community can have their say by either:

1. Completing the survey online using Survey Monkey by selecting the link on Council’s website www.lockhart.nsw.gov.au

2. Completing a Community Survey form at either the Council Administration Office at Lockhart, The Rock Post Office, Yerong Creek Post Office or Pleasant Hills Post Office

Rod Shaw General Manager

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Mayors Report Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

Hello everyone;

Well this is my second report, and as usual there has

been quite a bit happening.

Firstly, the Lockhart Show which although wet was

successful. Everybody that attended was hoping for an

end to the rain, and finally its happened. Let‘s hope that it

stays dry to allow the farmers to once again get onto

paddocks to make hay, windrow and generally prepare for

harvest.

On the 7th October the start of the judging for sculptures

and art began for the Spirit of the Land Festival and after

a successful awards night the festival proper started. The

whole festival was a roaring success and thousands

flocked to Lockhart for a perfect sunny weekend out. On

the Saturday morning Doris Golder was awarded her

OAM in the room which houses her artwork in the

Museum surrounded by family and friends. A wonderful

moment!

On the 14th October Pleasant Hills School celebrated its

125th anniversary before a large crowd of past and

present students and residents. The school looked

fantastic. Well done Pleasant Hills!

The Local Government Conference was held in

Wollongong on the 16th to 18th October. I along with the

GM and Councillor Verdon attended to witness the

presentation of a merit award to long serving Councillor

and Mayor Peter Yates. Peter was a Councillor for 17

years, the last 8 of which he served as Mayor, during

which he led the successful fight against amalgamation of

the shire. A great honour and well deserved recognition

for Peter!

Council has now completed its five planned Community

Strategic Planning meetings across the shire. These

meetings were held to seek support from the shire

residents for our shire plans going forward for the next ten

years, including reaffirming community support for the

Special Rate Variation for which community support was

received as part of the Fit For the Future Program early

last year. We have received 72% majority support of

residents who attended the meetings for the Variation but

unfortunately these meetings were

not well attended. Residents will

recall that Council asked for and

received community support for a

Special Rate Variation of 4.6%, or

approximately 2.5% over and

above a normal CPI annual

increase for a period of 10 years.

Our thanks for those in the

community who have now reaffirmed their support for the

Variation which can now go forward to Government for

approval. My thanks are extended to those who did attend

the meetings at which some healthy and positive debate

took place. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks

to the consultants from Projectura who put so much work

into preparing for this programme.

Council is undertaking a very large programme of mowing

on roadsides and public areas in an effort to reduce the

incredible growth of grass after the long wet winter, not

only to make our shire neat and tidy but to reduce the fire

danger to our communities and help make our roads and

intersections safer.

This month we will see harvesting operations begin and

as well as wishing all farmers in our shire the very best of

luck with it, I would strongly urge them to be patient with

council staff if they come across road works in their area.

Because of the very wet winter, our works program is way

behind schedule, so it will be necessary to carry out some

road works while harvest period progresses. Smile and

wave as you see a grader crew repairing your road and if

you must ring the Engineer, do so to congratulate him on

trying to repair the water damage. All crews will be flat out

this summer repairing road damage from the wet winter

and they deserve praise.

Lastly, the new Council is settling in very well and I

believe that your interests are being well served.

Remember, we are a stand alone Council through the

efforts of all shire residents. Let‘s do everything we can to

remain that way.

Cheers Rodg.

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Council Snippets 24 October 2016 Our Values - Leadership, Integrity, Progressiveness, Commitment, Accountability, Adaptability.

Works Report:

Construction projects are now ready to commence pending suitable weather. First construction projects to be commenced are MR543 Heavy Patching, The Rock Mangoplah Road widening and Grubben Road upgrade. These projects will be followed then by MR370 Rehabilitation north of Wattles Lane and Western Road widening. At present all three grader crews are undertaking repairs to roads damaged by flood waters and maintenance grading in accordance with program where possible. There is some significant damage to some of Council‟s sealed road network from the inclement weather which will be scheduled for repairs when conditions are more suited. Staff are currently gathering data on quantum of damage. In the meantime, staff will perform temporary patch/install signage to make safe as practical.

Road Safety Officer:

Kim Schultz has been appointed Council‟s new Road Safety Officer and has commenced her employment.

Lockhart Local Emergency Management Committee:

LEMC meeting was held on Friday 14 October 2016 where recent flooding and rain events were discussed at length. Council is currently working with SES in completing Local Flood Plan. This will include using data from our recently complete early warning stations on both Brookong and Burkes Creeks. In addition, Emergency Management planning is close to being finalised, with presentation to Council expected later in the year.

Major Projects Update:

Council is currently undertaking several major projects and the status of each of those are as follows:

(a) Swimming Pools Upgrade: Staff are working on detailed design/scoping of the project. Meetings have been held with each town Pool Steering Committee. Staff are liaising with Greater Hume Shire Council and Gunnedah Shire Council as they are slightly advanced on their upgrade projects and are providing design and costing information. Council was advised recently that it was unsuccessful with grant application under the National Stronger Regional Fund for each pool, creating $1M shortfall in funding model. Funding to be determined following further community consultation as well as more robust costing following detailed design works.

(b) The Rock Sewer Extension: Staff are currently working through a design brief for the detailed survey and design work. Expect to go to tender by end of October 2016.

(c) The Rock STP Tertiary Ponds Upgrade: Staff have been in discussions with NSW Water regarding a Section 60 approval for the works. Geotechnical testing has been undertaken and final design and detail works are being completed. Subject to being granted a Section 60 approval works are scheduled for early in the New Year.

(d) Demolition of Voluntary Purchase Properties: quotes have been called for the demolition of first round of homes in Lockhart and The Rock. Works expected to be completed by end of November 2016 in accordance with OEH funding requirements. Second round of homes have yet to be purchased by Council. These properties will be required to be demolished by end of April 2017.

(e) Flood Mitigation Construction: Council has submitted grant applications for Stage 4 construction of flood mitigation structures in both Lockhart and The Rock for 2016/17 and 2017/18 years, and it is hoped we will be advised on applications very shortly.

(f) Toilet/Shower Upgrade at The Rock Rec Ground: Investigations of options to be undertaken in next couple of months. Plan is to have works completed before next football-netball season.

Henty Machinery Field Day:

Council‟s Noxious Weeds Inspector represented Riverina WAP (Weeds Action Program) at the Henty Field Days again this year. The theme for this year‟s display was “Grow Me Instead”, which is an initiative developed by the Nursery and Garden Industry of NSW and ACT. This project was designed to encourage the removal of species known to invade the natural environment from production and sale within the nursery industry. The display of live plants was again present at the site, containing examples of declared noxious weeds, environmental weeds, and desired non-invasive garden species. While the noxious weed

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Council Snippets 24 October 2016 Our Values - Leadership, Integrity, Progressiveness, Commitment, Accountability, Adaptability.

live species are always a valuable tool for identification, the inclusion of live environmental weeds was a great initiator of conversation and interaction with the general public, with large numbers of people stating that they have these plants present in their gardens. Having live specimens of recommended non-invasive species was also appreciated.

Walter Day Park: Landscaping around the new toilet block is in the planning stages, including a permanent home for „Going to the Dance‟ and an extension of the rose garden. New footpaths and a drinking fountain have been installed. Sculpture Trail: This year‟s Spirit of the Land National Farm Art winner, Freedom Run by Andrew Whitehead will be placed on display at the front of the Lockhart Caravan Park. Street Cleaning: The pavers in Green St were pressure washed before the Spirit of the Land Festival in Lockhart. The pavers came up quite well; now that Parks and Urban maintenance have their new pressure washer regular cleaning of the pavers in the CBD of both Lockhart and The Rock will be scheduled to keep them at their best. Pools: Preparations have started to ready the pool complexes for handover to the contractors on 7 November. Development Control Plan 2016: To satisfy the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and to facilitate fair and consistent planning in the shire, a draft Development Control Plan has been developed. The DCP prescribes a range of development controls for different development types and localities and includes provisions relating to subdivision, residential development, commercial development, industrial development, rural development, heritage conservation, natural hazards and infrastructure. The purpose of the DCP is to:

provide a detailed development assessment framework for the Lockhart Shire

provide clear and concise development guidelines for various forms of development

encourage innovation in design and development by not over-specifying development outcomes, and

provide certainty in development outcomes for developers and the community.

Essentially, the DCP has been prepared to provide guidance on the implementation of the aims, objectives, land uses and provisions of the Lockhart Local Environmental Plan 2012. The DCP will also consolidate, amend, update or repeal a number of existing Council policies, including: - Policy 2.11 Flood Prone Land and Building Floor Level - Policy 2.19 Building line setbacks - Policy 2.37 Erection of sheds in residential areas - Policy 2.38 Erection of fences to residential properties - Policy 2.39 The erection of street numbers - Policy 2.43 Development on flood control land. The DCP applies to all development that may only be carried out with consent under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. When determining a development application, the Council (or other relevant consent authority such as the Land and Environment Court) will take into consideration the extent to which any applicable objectives or development outcomes specified by the DCP will be satisfied or achieved by the design, construction or operation of the proposal. At its meeting 24 October 2016 Council resolved to place the DCP on public exhibition for a period of 30 days in accordance with Section 74C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. As part of the public exhibition there will be notices in the local newspapers and on Council‟s website. At the completion of public exhibition period the Draft DCP will be formally presented to Council, with any submissions received during public exhibition, for final consideration. Written submissions in response to the proposed DCP will be accepted until 5pm on 1st December 2016

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You welcomed all our visitors over the Spirit of the Land weekend with the generous country hospitality which we have become renowned for! We had a fantastic weekend, despite some small changes, and by all accounts we have pulled off another successful festival.

I would particularly like to thank the Committee, who have worked so hard to make it happen. Each member does a stellar job and it makes my job so easy knowing that these tasks are so competently covered.

Thank you too, to the volunteers who help over the weekend, from manning entry points, to helping with set up and pull-down, including collecting toilets, hanging planter baskets and flags, and the myriad of other jobs that make our town so welcoming.

I would also like to thank those that enhance our festival to attract more visitors – the owners of the open gardens, the Lanes, McMickings, and the Strong extended family; and Heidi and David Gooden who organise the Farm Tours.

The Lockhart Shire Council not only contributes to our prize pool but also offers considerable support for the festival – thank you to the executive staff and councillors for your support, and also the council staff who have donated their time over the weekend. I would also like to thank the cleaners and garbage collectors who help to keep us looking spick and span.

Congratulations to all the sculptors, photographers and painters who entered the exhibitions. The judges were unanimously overwhelmed with the standard of entries, and without your contribution we would have no festival. I know it was often a mission to get some of the artworks to Lockhart and I thank you for your perseverance and support.

Thanks also to our sponsors whose support helps our festival stay afloat. Some of these sponsors have been with us for all of our ten years and we appreciate your faith and generosity.

And now we look forward to the next festival (in a little while!), with more good things to come, and with everyone contributing, I am sure it will be another great success.

Thank you

Mandy Strong

President

Thank You Lockhart

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Lockhart Can-Assist

(servicing Boree Creek and Urana Districts)

November Monthly meeting will be changed to Tuesday 8th Nov @ 3pm at the Uniting Church Hall as the first Tuesday is Melbourne Cup day.

Our meeting for December will be an afternoon tea on the Tuesday 13th December @ 2pm at the Lockhart Ex-Servicemen's Club, where we will have some special guests! Please bring a plate if possible.

The Lockhart Branch of Can Assist is dedicated to providing financial support to people in our community affected by cancer.

0491 114 125 PO Box 50, Lockhart 2656 lockhartcanassist@gmail.com facebook.com/CanAssistLockhartBranch

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Lockhart Swimming Pool Opening Hours

Monday to Friday

6am to 8 am and 1pm to 7 pm

Saturday and Sunday

11am to 7 pm

School Holidays

Monday to Friday

6am to 8 am and 11am to 7pm

Saturday and Sunday

11am to 7 pm

Closed

Christmas Day & Boxing Day

Season tickets: Family $180, Single $70

All entry $3

Welcome Kim Schultz our newly appointed

Road Safety Officer for the Greater Hume

Shire Council and Lockhart Shire Council. Kim

has been involved within the Road and Driver

Safety Industry for 16 years delivering

Advanced and 4X4 Driving Programs to the

Queensland Emergency Services, Mining

Industry, Tasmania Fire Service and many

other small and large organisations throughout

Australia and New Zealand. Kim‟s passion

and commitment to road and driver safety is

unquestionable and is looking forward to

continuing the great work Shelagh Merlin our

previous Road Safety Officer introduced.

Introducing our New Road Safety Officer

The Rock Swimming Pool Opening Hours

Monday to Friday 6am to 8 am and 1pm to 7 pm Saturday and Sunday 11am to 7 pm

School Holidays Monday to Friday 6am to 8 am and 11am to 7pm Saturday and Sunday 11am to 7 pm

Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day

Season tickets: Family $160, Single $60 Entry $3 swimmers, $1 non swimmers Swimming Club will start in November please call Sophie Driscoll for more information Ph: 0448 481 272

Swimming Pool Opening Times from 7 November

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“Get Set Enhancing Modern Women”

Riverina Community College Shirley Taylor 69202052 Michelle Baker: 0449929478 Joy Schultz 0428566902 Carolyn Sanford: 0419492731

Starting in the New Year

This program is an initiative of the Aussie Farmers Foundation in conjunction with the Riverina Community College. It is designed to empower rural women with the capacity to deal with challenges of

every day farming life. The programme is open to all farming women.

It will be delivered one day a week over eight weeks at the Rock. The aim is to empower farming women with the skills to help organise the family‟s finances, knowledge, confidence and skills in the use of technology in their everyday farming life as well as engage with their

general well- being.

The program will include hands-on workshops in

Computer Skills Health and well-being

Financial planning

Participants will enjoy “Guest speakers” on the above topics For more information on the programme please contact Riverina

Community College (RCC) co-ordinators:

Please call one of the below contacts to register your interest.

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The theme for the 20th Australian Food Safety Week, to be held from 6 to 12 November 2016, is ‘Raw and risky’ foods following major food poisoning outbreaks in recent years linked to risky raw foods such as unpasteurized milk,

raw eggs, bean/seed sprouts, frozen berries and lettuce

Raw and risky foods – tips on how to avoid food poisoning 20th Australian Food Safety Week 6 – 12

November 2016

Recent years have seen major food poisoning outbreaks linked to risky raw foods such as unpasteurized milk, raw eggs, bean/seed sprouts, frozen berries and lettuce. Each year an estimated 1 million Australians have to visit a

doctor with food poisoning, 32,000 people end up in hospital and 86 people die.

‗Raw foods can get contaminated with bacteria and viruses in many ways. These include from food handlers‘ unwashed hands, from the soil, compost or dirty irrigation water used to grow the food, from food producing animals, from dirty kitchen equipment and by contact with other contaminated food. Cooking the food usually kills any bacteria

or viruses so there is more of a food poisoning risk from eating some raw foods.

‗You can reduce your raw food risk by following these simple tips:

DON’T use any cracked eggs in raw eggs dishes such as egg nog, uncooked desserts such as mousses and

tiramisu, hollandaise sauces, fresh mayonnaise, aioli, health shakes with added raw egg or steak tartar. Either discard the cracked eggs or save them for a dish like a cake that will be thoroughly cooked. Prepare any raw

egg dish as close as possible to consuming and refrigerate at or below 5°C

DON’T wash eggs from your backyard chooks as it spreads bacteria around your kitchen. Use a paper towel or

brush to remove as much visible dirt as possible and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Once again it‘s

best not to use them in raw egg dishes.

DON’T eat undercooked dishes including minced meat, such as in hamburgers and sausages, liver (including

liver paté), stuffed or rolled roasts or poultry. Cook these foods all the way through to 75°C to kill any bacteria

inside.

DON’T drink unpasteurised milk as it will be contaminated with bacteria (and raw cow‘s milk is illegal to sell). If

you have your own goat or cow you can pasteurize your own milk by heating it to 75 °C in a double boiler for 2

minutes continuously stirring, then cool and refrigerate in a clean container.

DON’T let juices from raw meat or poultry contaminate other foods that won‘t be cooked like salads or desserts.

Use separate chopping boards for raw meat and salad veggies, cover raw meat and poultry in the fridge.

However DO eat lots of raw fruit and vegetables, Australians aren‘t eating their recommended 5 serves of veggies and 2 of fruit a day. Reduce your risk of food poisoning by washing your fruit and veggies under running water and dry with a paper towel just before eating – even if you are going to peel it so you don‘t transfer bacteria to the inside of the food. You may need to scrub dirtier root veggies. There is no need to wash bagged fresh salads or cut vegetables if

the label says it has been pre-washed but make sure you use them by the use by date.

Finally, don‘t forget that some foods, such as raw eggs, unpasteurised dairy products, cold deli meats, soft cheeses, paté and salads that you haven‘t prepared at home, need to be avoided entirely by some groups at risk of Listeria which can cause a fatal infection. These at risk groups include pregnant women, the elderly and people with poor

immune systems

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Straying, damaging property, chasing

people or other animals, endangering

the health of people or other animals

The Companion Animals Act 1998 requires you to keep your dog under

control at all times, whether on or off your premises. It also requires you

to prevent your dog from straying. To help achieve this:

secure your property to prevent your dog from escaping by erecting

appropriate fencing and gates with dog-proof latches.

ensure that your dog is controlled by a leash when in a public place

(with the exception of council-designated leash-free areas)

train and socialise your dog.

You are also strongly encouraged to have your dog desexed. This will

reduce the likelihood of your dog straying and reduce fighting,

aggressive and other anti-social behaviour, such as spraying to mark

territory.

If you cannot afford to have your dog desexed, talk to your vet or an

approved animal welfare organisation, as they may be able to help.

CORRECT

WRONG

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SAFETY AROUND INFLATABLE SWIMMING POOLS While fun for small children, serious hazards are associated with pools, including inflatable and portable pools:

Toddlers can drown silently in very shallow water (only 5cm deep)

Children can become ill when pool water is left unsanitised for long periods of time

Electrocution is a very real threat when portable electrical pumps and filter systems are not used properly.

New South Wales pool owners are required to make sure their pools (whether inflatable or in-ground) comply with the Swimming Pools Act 1992. The Act requires all new swimming pools to be separated from surrounding buildings by a child-resistant barrier that complies with Australian Standards.

You should be aware that, to prevent drowning and other accidents, there is no substitute for constant adult supervision of children in and around swimming pools. Also, if you have a swimming pool, you should be familiar with first aid and

resuscitation techniques.

MAKING SURE YOUR POOL FENCE IS COMPLIANT There are stringent regulations and rules that guide whether. Does you fence meet the following measurements?

1200mm - the minimum height of your pool fence

900mm the minimum width of the non-climbable zone

100mm - the maximum distance between the bars

100mm the maximum distance between the bottom of the fence and the ground

Your pool also needs to be registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register. Visit the NSW Fair Trading website for more information, or contact Council.

This summer the message is simple: Check your pool fences and never take your eyes off children around water.

Environmental Services Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

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PLANNING TO BUILD OR SUBDIVIDE?

All applications are to be reviewed in a pre-lodgement meeting with the Environmental Services Department, prior to lodgement.

To make sure our planning staff is available to assist you in preparing your application please phone to arrange an

appointment.

Information and forms are available on Council‟s website under

the heading Development – Building & Development forms.

All Development Applications should be submitted with a Statement of Environmental Effects as well as all relevant plans and prescribed fees. If unsure give our Planning team at Environmental Services a call on (02) 6920 5305.

Environmental Services Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

EXHIBITION OF DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT, 1979

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 101 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979, the following development applications were approved, with conditions, from 1st September to 30th September 2016 by Lockhart Shire Council

Applications may be viewed at the Lockhart Shire Council Office, 65 Green Street Lockhart, between 9am and 4pm weekdays (excluding public holidays). Submissions to the proposals may be made in writing prior to the expiry of the exhibition period.

DA No Development Site of Development

4/17 Addition & Extension to existing Dwelling 143 Old Trunk Rd, The Rock

7/17 Munyabla RFS Station Woodend Fiveways Rd, Henty Pleasant Hills Rd, Munyabla

9/17 New Colorbond Shed 65 Urana St, The Rock

10/17 Farm Hay Shed 92 Bullenbong Rd, The Rock

11/17 New Dwelling 2658 Bidgeemia Rd, Bidgeemia

14/17 Demolition of dwellings x 2

24 Island Bend Rd, The Rock 162 Green St, Lockhart

Council News Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

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Next Council Meeting

Monday 21 November 2016

Notice is given that Council’s Meeting for November will be held in the Council Chambers,

Green Street, Lockhart.

The meeting commences at 5.00pm

Members of the community are most

welcome to attend.

NEWSLETTER DEADLINES

All articles for the next Newsletter need to be received no later than 4pm on

Friday 18 November 2016

Council would appreciate articles in word or publisher format, jpg is also

acceptable.

Placement of articles is subject to available space.

Ph: (02) 6920 5305 Fax: (02) 6920 5247

or mail@lockhart.nsw.gov.au

CONTACT: LUKE FOLEY, JOHN MOONEY REAL ESTATE - AGENT FOR COUNCIL PHONE: 02 69211255

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Brookong Nook Craft Shop Green Street Lockhart

Come in and browse our locally made wares.

Goods for sale: All varieties of home made Jams, Pickles, Relishes, Lemon Butter, Local Honey, Free Range Eggs, Olive Oil, Goats Soap. Cooking: Apple or Apricot Pies, Fruit Rolls, Various small tarts, Handcrafts: knitted scarf‟s – all lengths & colours in latest fashion yarns, baby jackets & Children‟s jumpers, bibs & singlet‟s, knitted berets/hats, rugs, dressed dolls and new born baby necessities in a gift basket. Many other assorted handcrafts and gifts Great place for that special gift at reasonable prices. Orders taken if unavailable on the day.

Ford Street THE ROCK 2655

THE ROCK & DISTRICT MEN‟S SHED

MEETS EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 9AM TO 3PM

$5 INCLUDES MORNING TEA & LUNCH

BRING YOUR OWN PROJECTS AND IDEAS

OR JUST JOIN IN THE CONVERSATIONS

COME AND JOIN US

CONTACT NUMBERS

Bob President 0428 695 913

Chris Secretary 0404 914088

THE ROCK & DISTRICT MENS SHED

Lockhart Preschool Kindergarten Inc

Day Street, Lockhart

Open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

8:30am - 3:00pm

For children aged 3-6 years

Please call Kerri 02 6920 5156 or email

lockhartpreschool@bigpond.com

LOCKHART RED CROSS OP-SHOP Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am til 2pm. Spring is here. We gratefully accept all clean resalable clothing or small items (china, glasses etc) unfortunately we can‟t accept electrical appliances. Stop by and grab a bargain.

Remembrance Day

11th November

The Lockhart RSL

Sub Branch

will be conducting a short service for Re-membrance Day at the Lockhart Cenotaph

commencing 10.45 am.

Any organizations or people are more than welcome to lay a wreath.

Poppies will be sold on the morning of the 4th Nov in Green St. near Newsagency,

and are for sale now at the Lockhart Post Office.

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Please refer to

opposite page

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Next of Kin Program Remove this page and complete the registration form. (place in envelope if you wish)

You can submit this form at any of the local businesses listed below.

Your details and the information you provide will be strictly confidential.

Lockhart Shire Council, Lockhart Post Office, The Rock Post Office, Yerong Creek Post

Office and Pleasant Hills Post Office.

Or, fax to Lockhart Police Station: 6920 5297

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Lockhart Shire Youth Services

Bubble Soccer fun at The Rock Recreational Grounds

On a beautiful sunny day on Monday 26 September there was a new game in town: Bubble Soccer. Over 120 young people and their families enjoyed this activity with a day of bouncing, bumping, smashing into each other, and rolling across the grass in an inflatable Zorb like ball.

Not only did the young people have the opportunity to experience this great activity but also on the day there was a giant jumping castle, clown costumes, face painting, and for those brave enough hair spray in cool colours. The fun did not stop there with also traditional games such as tug a war, gum boot throwing and a

sausage sizzle.

All of the activities on the day were arranged and provided for free for the young people of the Lockhart Shire. Overall, the day was a huge success with many young people and their families attending making it a real community event. Thanks to Vanessa Hopkins and James Sylvester for all your help on the day assisting with the cooking of the barbeque, plus parents who helped clean up at the completion of the event.

Are you interested in being part of a Youth Advisory Committee in the Lockhart

Shire?

Are you aged between 12-25 years and would like to be part of a Youth Advisory Committee in the Lockhart shire? The primary roles would be:

To advocate for the needs of young people and provide a mechanism for their participation and involvement on community issues

To assist young people in developing skills in various areas

To assist in planning programs for youth as well as annual youth week events.

For more information contact Susan Kane, Library and Youth Services Development Officer Phone: 0417212069 or Email: skane@geaterhume.nsw.gov.au

Youth Advisory Committee Information Guides and Application Forms can also be picked up from the Lockhart Shire Office.

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Lockhart Shire Youth Services

HSC Study Lab a new product available from the Riverina Regional Library

This product covers the entire syllabus for HSC Biology, Chemistry and Physics. There is videos, simulations, animations and HSC style questions for students. This resource has been written and presented by expert teachers, including markers of the HSC.

To access the product go to the Information Online page. There are 2 links – one for initial sign up (creating email and password details) and the second to log in after they have signed up and for subsequent visits. If these links are not used the member will be taken to the commercial website with payment options.

This will be a valuable tool to promote to your senior science students.

Funding to increase Youth Opportunities in the Lockhart Shire

The Hon John Ajaka MLC, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Multiculturalism, has recently announced grants for 28 projects across NSW that aim to help young people reach their full potential through activities that benefit their communities. Lockhart Shire‟s Operation Connect, Engage, Implement - Youth Advisory Committee in Lockhart project was one of the successful applications. The Youth Opportunity Program provides more than $1 million to organisations each year to deliver youth-led, and youth driven community projects. Mr Ajaka said the NSW Government is investing in grass-roots projects across NSW that engage young people to become involved in community development activities. The Operation Connect, Engage, Implement - Youth Advisory Committee project, - to be run across the shire of Lockhart will enable young people in the shire to bring new energy and ideas to issues and concerns that are effecting them through the establishment of the Youth Advisory Committee. This project will be undertaken with the assistance of Youth Motivational Speaker and Teen Coach Nathan Hull. The grant of $15,876 approved for the Lockhart Shire will include Nathan Hull visiting the Lockhart Shire 3 times throughout 2017 guiding and mentoring young people in the shire towards the establishment of a Youth Advisory Committee. Nathan's message to the young people will be delivered with the calibre that it will be an empowering, uplifting, motivational message that will produce results that the shire is looking. The project will also include the purchase of T-shirts and a banner both designed by the newly established Youth Committee of Lockhart Shire to be worn and displayed at all youth programs by the committee. Overall, the project will demonstrate to the community that young people have the capability and capacity to organise, plan, and vocalise their goals. For further information please contact: Susan Kane Youth Services Development Officer M: 0417 212 069 Email: skane@greaterhume.nsw.gov.au

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Public Information Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

LOCKHART MEMORIAL HALL

HALL HIRE

FULL DAY $200.00

HALF DAY $115.00

NIGHT $200.00

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR HIRE: Tables, Chairs, Crockery

Please contact Lockhart Shire Council Phone: (02) 6920 5305

PLEASANT HILLS PRESCHOOL

Open Wednesdays

9.15 – 3.15

For children aged between 3 – 5yrs

For more info contact Megan 6929 6134

THE ROCKTOWN HALL & MUSEUM

AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

FULL DAY $190.00

HALF DAY $110.00

NIGHT $190.00

Some or all of the exhibits may be

removed on request.

For information contact:

Leia Thiele (Sec) 0439 203 031

Laurie Thiele (Pres) 0488 996 186

https://www.facebook.com/TheRockHallMuseum/

Selling a large variety of locally made items including: Free range eggs, jams, relish, pickles, baked goods, hand painted gifts, baby wear, children's‘ clothing, toys, quilting and patchwork, knitted and crochet items, kitchen and bathroom accessories, ladies bags, jewellery, scarves, aboriginal artwork. Our association was formed to provide opportunities for crafters within the Riverina area to connect with others, grow their home based businesses and promote hand make local products. If you would like to become a member, applications forms are available from the Craft Shop. All welcome. For more information call Joy Schultz 0428566902, Wendy Flory 0429637313 or Chris Makeham 0448570227

“Kengal Krafters Inc” The Rock Craft Shop @ the CWA rooms

128 Urana St, The Rock Open Wednesday to Sunday,

10am - 2pm

Change of date St Mary’s Parish Debutante

Ball Early 2018

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Public Information Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

Lockhart Local Court Services

The Local Court Office can be found at 9 Matthews Street, Lockhart

(Council‘s Medical Centre).

The office is open the first and third Mondays of each month from 9:to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to

3:30pm.

Services available include: Births, Deaths & Marriages enquiries, family law, apprehended violence orders, advice on procedural matters relating to Court appearances, payment of court fines and civil claims matters. Assistance can be given in the making of Wills. Marriages may also

be conducted.

As a Government Access Centre you may purchase fishing licences, obtain boating

handbooks and many other publications.

Please make use of the services provided by Lockhart Court House. Phone 6920 5533 or call in

during opening hours.

Lockhart Senior Citizen

November Events

All activities are held at the

Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

Mon, 14th Nov - 1.30pm, - Meeting followed by Bingo & Afternoon Tea

Sun, 19th Nov - 12pm, Monthly BBQ

Mon, 28th - 1.30pm, Bingo & Afternoon Tea

Hope Everyone has enjoyed themselves throughout 2016.

Not long until Christmas

Lockhart Seniors News

All meetings held at the

Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

President Joy Hooper welcomed 14

members to our October Meeting.

Birthdays for the month were: Doris

Golder, Wendy Mulqueeney, Neil Jefferys,

Margaret Doherty, Barry Doherty and Kay

Gibb. Seniors Raffle 1st prize winner, Ros

Nimmo and 2nd prize winner wasGeorge

Palter. Secretary Joy Hooper spoke

about a trip seniors might be interested in.

Glendale citrus and hazelnut orchard,

Narrandera. Seniors Christmas Party

Sunday 4th December at 12pm

Secretary Wendy Mulqueeny

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The Rock & District Playgroup

Meets Fridays

10am - 12pm

The Rock Preschool

King Street

The Rock

For all children from birth—5yrs and all

carers, mums, dads and grandparents

Bring the kiddos for a play while

you enjoy a coffee

For more information contact

Playgroup NSW on 1800 171 882

and they will put you in contact with one of

The Rock playgroup members.

The Rock Op-Shop

Open

Sat/Sun 10am - 2pm

Mon/Tues 11.30am - 3.30pm

Wed - Fri, 10am - 4pm

Adults clothes $3, children $2, babies 50c - $1

Donations Needed

Check us out on Facebook

Contact Lynly Boyle

6920 1522

THE ROCK PRESCHOOL INC For children aged 3-6 years Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm

New building

Amazing large outdoor play area.

Please call 02-69202455

or email therockps@gmail.com

A great place for children to laugh, learn and grow!

Lockhart Local Health Advisory Committee Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) is calling for the public to have its say with the launch of the 2016 Community Survey. Chair of the Lockhart LHAC Larraine Hoffmann said this is the perfect opportunity for the community to provide feedback toward improved communication with the health service. Murrumbidgee Local Health District is serious about ensuring feedback received from our local community is acted on and incorporated into the day-to-day operations of the service,‖ said Larraine Hoffmann. This survey will seek to find out how much people know about our services and how we can best communicate with our communities about our services. The survey is easy to complete online or hard copies can be obtained from the hospital or you can contact Larraine Hoffmann on 69206233 or 0427204051 to obtain a copy.‖ The survey forms part of MLHD‘s Community Engagement Strategy which focusses on informing, consulting and engaging with consumers. MLHD is enthusiastic about partnering with our community,‖ said Chief Executive Jill Ludford. ―We continue to work towards improving the way we go about planning, designing and evaluating our services, and this is another step towards ensuring we get it right.‖ The first Community Survey in 2014 provided some great information to improve the way we communicate, Ms Ludford said. One of these was the redevelopment of the MLHD website to include information about the services provided through the district.‖ The data from the previous survey also revealed correlations between people‘s age, sex and location and their level of understanding about services available. Different people access information differently and the survey highlighted how we could better communicate with people from different backgrounds in our communities,‖ she said. The survey is available online at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/986Y59H or it can be accessed via the ―your opinion‖ page on the MLHD website or by contacting Community Engagement Manager Setchen Brimson on 02 6933 9100 or email setchen.brimson@gsahs.health.nsw.gov.au

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Local Church Services – November 2016

Lockhart Uniting Church Services

6th, 9am - Lockhart

13th, 9am - Lockhart

11am - Woodhaven, Holy Communion

20th, 9am - No Service, join with the

Anglicans

27th, 9am - Lockhart, Holy Communion

Sunday School is held on 2nd & 4th Sundays

during school terms.

If there are any pastoral concerns, please

contact Larraine Hoffman on 6920 6233

St John’s Presbyterian Church Cnr Hebden & Day St, Lockhart

1st and 3rd Sundays - 6pm 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays - 8.45am

Rev Craig Nicholas 6929 3129 www.hentylockhartpresy.org.au

Lockhart, Urana & Oaklands Catholic Church

Lockhart Parish 1st, 3rd & 5th SUNDAY OF THE MONTH SATURDAY (Vigil Mass) - 6pm Lockhart

SUNDAY 8am - Urana 10am - Oaklands

2nd & 4th SUNDAY OF THE MONTH SATURDAY (Vigil Mass) 6pm Urana

SUNDAY 8am Lockhart 10am Urangeline

For further information contact Father Tony Schipp on 6920 5446

The Rock Uniting Church Ford Street, The Rock

Rev. Daniel Yang 2ND SUNDAY – 9.30AM

All Welcome CONTACT: (O2) 69202024

Or (02) 6933 1650

The Rock St Peters Anglican Church

Communion 1st Sunday each month at 9.30am

Enquiries: Mrs J Heazlewood 0427 198 513

Mrs M Vennell 6920 1067

St Mary’s Parish, The Rock

Sunday 10.00am - The Rock.

1st & 3rd Sunday, 8.30am - Mangoplah

2nd & 4th Sunday, 8.30am - Yerong Creek

Enquiries: Fr Damian Jellett 6920 2017

Bethlehem Lutheran Church Milbrulong

2nd Sunday of the month -

Lay Reading with morning tea

4th Sunday of the month

Lay Reading with Sunday School

Phone 02-69206226 with enquiries

ANGLICAN CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA Diocese of Riverina Parish of Lockhart

St Aidan’s Lockhart Cnr Day & Drummond Streets Lockhart

SUNDAYS 9.00am St Philip’s Urana Princess Street

Urana 4

th Sunday of the month 5pm

St Oswald’s Boree Creek Baptisms, Marriages, Funerals & other

activities by arrangement All enquiries: Rev Nola Cox 6920 5549

Christian Radio in Lockhart 87.6

Tune every day

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Lockhart Caravan Park

If you know someone looking for just the right place to set up camp with a tent or caravan, or looking to hire an on-site van, then Lockhart Caravan Park is just the place.

Situated in Green Street, the caravan park is just 100 metres from the shopping area and within easy

walking distance to all facilities.

There are 21 sites, three unpowered and eighteen powered sites.

Three Cabins which can accommodate up to 8 people are

also available.

A modern camp kitchen is available as well as showers, toilets and a

peaceful location.

Contact the Manager on

0458 205 303

for bookings.

MOBILE LIBRARY

TIMETABLE

November 2016

Lockhart

1st, 8th,15th, 22nd & 29th

9am - 12.30pm

Milbrulong

3rd & 17th

9am - 10am

Pleasant Hills

14th & 28th

1.15pm - 2.30pm

Yerong Creek

2nd, 16th & 30th

3pm - 4pm

The Rock

Now stopping directly across

from Emily Gardens Aged

Care, Emily Street

3rd & 17th

10.30am - 12.00pm

www.rrl.nsw.gov.au

27

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Health & Associated Services Our Values - Leadership; Integrity; Progressiveness; Commitment; Accountability; Adaptability.

OPTOMETRIST Russell and Chalker EyecarePlus visit

Lockhart regularly for comprehensive

consultations including glaucoma testing,

cataract assessments , macular

degeneration.

Adults and children’s assessments, and

Veteran’s Affairs patients welcome.

Spectacle frames available.

For Appointments Phone:

(02) 6921 8833.

Australian Unity

Home Care Service Lockhart/The Rock/Coolamon

Enquiries: 6920 5286

Co-ordinator - Robyn Pearse

We provide the following services:

Domestic Assistance

Personal Care

Respite Services

Call 1800 200 422

X-RAY SERVICE

X-ray services are available every second

Friday at Lockhart & District Hospital. A

referral from the doctor is required.

For appointments phone 6930 7100

Lockhart Community Health Services Lockhart Community Health Nurses are available

for self-referral

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, ph: 6930 7100

The Rock Community Health Nurses are available for self-referral Mon, Wed, Fri, ph: 6930 7100 or

Mob: 0427 107 897

Early Childhood Clinics—Wed, Lockhart

–Thurs, The Rock

Other services available include:

Physiotherapy—Wed, ph: 6930 7100

Women‘s Health—6930 7100

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network have a counsellor

providing counselling on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month

at the Lockhart Medical Practice.

Referrals are needed.

Just call the surgery on 69205249 to make an appointment.

Interested in cycling?

Bike riding group leaving every Saturday morning at 7am from

Latte Da, Green St, Lockhart

Ride from 10 – 30km All welcome

Contact Foxy for more info

0447 239 216

Tai Chi classes are still being held each

week at Lockhart Uniting Church thee is a

new beginner class starting for just a few

weeks for people to come along and try at

10.30am on Mondays. If you would like

any more information, please contact

Larraine Hoffmann on 69206233, or

0427204051. Anyone who has just

competed the Stepping

On programme is most

welcome to come along

and try some Tai Chi

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Our Services delivery areas encompass the Lockhart & Federation Shires. For further classification of service provision in what areas and for any queries please

contact Lockhart on 02 6920 4162 The following services Valmar Support Services offer are:

We also offer a Weekly Bus Service to Wagga each Wednesday. Social bus Trips each Friday .

Contact 02 6920 4162

Community Transport Centre based Respite

Individual & Group Social Support Flexible Respite

Home Modifications Craft Group– 10am-12pm

Meals on Wheels Day Club– Tuesdays 10am-3pm

Domestic Assistance Home Maintenance

Personal Care Brokered Services

The Rock & District Meals on Wheels Association Inc.

If you would like to join our enthusiastic Social Club or enquire about receiving Meals Please phone 69202500 and speak to Vicky or Stephanie. If you could spare some time we would by happy to have you join our merry band of volunteers We are now located at The Rock Memorial Bowling Club

PO Box 99 The Rock NSW2655 Phone: 6920 2500

Mobile:0429 950968 E-mail: tr-mow@bigpond.net.au

“Your Local Service”

We provide an extensive menu of frozen and freshly made hot and chilled meals

Monday - Friday

Our Social Club meets twice a week on Tuesdays with a cost of $12 and also on Thursday with a

cost of $10. This includes Morning Tea and a hot Lunch.

The activities this month are

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GRANTS PROGRAM

In line with our objective of returning profits made from our bank to the community, which supports the bank, applications from Organisations are now sought to develop and enhance

the Lockhart & District Community.

Grants already contributed to our community since opening in 2002 totals $750,000.

Application forms & further information may be obtained from: Lockhart & District Community Bank® Branch

98 Green Street, Lockhart.

NOTE: Total pool of funds available for all grants this year will be a maximum of $50,000.

Further information available from The Sponsorship Committee: Chris Mackey 0429 205 311

Ken Hogan 0429 201 101 Nick Mathews 0427 205 608

Chairman, Shane Trotter 0428 694 581

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 30th November 2016

Bank with us so as we can further support our Community!

Rates information

If paying by instalments, your next instalment will

be due by 30th November 2016.

Overdue Rates are subject to daily interest in accordance with the provisions of The Local Government Act, 1993 at the interest rate approved by the Minister for Local Government. Currently, interest is set at 8.5% pa.

Failure to contact Council regarding overdue Rates may result in additional and unnecessary recovery costs which will be added to your account.

31

School News

Lockhart Central School On the 7th, 8th and 9th September four students competed in the NSW Combined High Schools State Athletics championships at Homebush. The students were in a total of eight events in both track and field. Olivia competed in the 17 years 3000m run and 15 years 1500m. Michael ran in the 15 years 100m Hurdles. He did very well at his first State carnival. Holly competed in 15 years high jump and triple jump. Brooke was in 17+ years high jump, discus and shotput. This was Brooke‘s last school athletics carnival. Well done Brooke. Thanks to the parents for taking us to Sydney to compete. Results were Holly Murphy was equal 5th in the high Jump and 11th in the triple jump, Olivia McDonnell was 13th in the 1500m and 12th in the 1200m, Michael Greening was 11th in the 100m and Brooke Peel was equal 11th in the High Jump, 12th in the Discus and 7th in the Shotput. Learning Opportunities in Primary Primary students have enjoyed a variety of learning experiences during the last few weeks. Thank you everyone who participated in the Healthy Lunchbox Challenge. Congratulations to Ethan Healy and Ruby Driscoll for winning the K-2 section and Syd Brockwell and Kiera Boots the Primary.

St Joseph’s News In the last week of term, the whole school travelled to Junee for the culmination of our A3 music program. Kinder-Year 2, staff, parents and families were treated to an amazing concert by Years 3-6 from our school as well as three other schools. The Enviromentors team joined us at school to provide us with another workshop around the theme of sustainability. This year‘s focus was on composting and worm farming and the students were all really engaged in learning new things about these areas. The arrival of our new furniture has been very exciting. All classrooms have taken delivery of lots of modern and dynamic furniture, injecting colour and imaginative thinking into our learning spaces.

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Lockhart Shire Council with the assistance of Kooringal Animal Hospital are providing a free microchipping day for the residents of the Lockhart Shire. This service is available for companion animals both dogs and cats. A limit of 3 companion animals of free micro chipping per household. The cost for any further micro chipping will be $30 per animal. Council staff will be available on the day to assist you with any registration questions and scanning of microchips. This is also an opportunity for you to check if your pet‟s details are up to date on the NSW Companion Animal Register. If your dog or cat is lost, ensuring up to date contact details are the best way to bring your pet home.

No bookings required. LOCKHART: When: 15 November 2016, 9am to 12noon Where: Wal Alexander Park, Green Street Lockhart THE ROCK: When: 22 November 2016, 9am to 12noon Where: The Rock Recreation Ground, Wilson Street The Rock To ensure safety of others, please note all dogs must be on a leash and cats in carriers when you bring them to the event, or you will be turned away. For further information please contact Council‟s Environmental Services 02 6920 5305.

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Lockhart Lions Club Recycling Location: Next to Uncle Toby‟s Shed, northern side of railway line.

Entry from Brookong Street.

Opening Times: Daylight Hours, seven days a week

Items

Paper/Magazines, Books (incl. phone books) Cardboard, Glass bottles & Jars (rinsed) Aluminium cans -Scrap aluminium, Plastics of any kind incl. bottles (rinsed), bags and wrapping

Unacceptable Items

Wax-coated cartons, Polystyrene, Light bulbs, Fluorescent tubes, Window glass, Heat-treated glass,

Steel cans or drums

Items we definitely don’t want

Soiled disposable nappies

Be a responsible recycler. To make our job easier

please use receptacles provided.

Thank you

Council Waste Disposal Centres Opening Hours

Each TUESDAY Each WEDNESDAY SUNDAYS IN NOVEMBER

(6TH & 20TH)

Lockhart 8.30am - 10.30am 8.30am - 11.30am

The Rock 1.00pm - 3.00pm 1.00pm - 4.00pm

Yerong Creek 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Pleasant Hills 10.00 am – 12.00pm

ALL LANDFILLS ARE CLOSED ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Items not accepted include mattresses, hazardous chemicals and tyres. Always segregate your waste, to make it easier for inspection and unloading at our sites. Green waste, E-waste and problem household wastes are accepted free of charge to Shire residents. Always cover your ute, trailer or truck, to minimise wind-blown litter in our communities. Refer to the ‘Waste & Recycling’ page of Council’s website

for more information on recycling initiatives, or waste

collection services.

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MOSQUITOES ARE A HEALTH HAZARD Mosquito numbers are likely to increase rapidly during flooding, warns Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

Mosquito bites are not just a nuisance, they also have the potential to pass on disease, People should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes to avoid contracting common mosquito-borne

diseases such as Ross River Virus and Barmah Forrest Virus.

Tips to avoid being bitten include:

Cover up as much as possible when outside with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and

covered footwear.

Use an effective repellent on all exposed skin. Re-apply repellent within a few hours, as

protection wears off from perspiration, particularly on hot nights. The best mosquito

repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin.

The stronger the concentration of an insect repellent, the less frequently it will need to be

applied to stop mosquito bites. Repellents containing low concentrations of DEET or

Picaridin provide shorter periods of protection so it's important to read the product

information.

Topical repellents are not recommended for use on children under three months of age. Use of physical barriers such as netting of prams, cots and play areas is preferred.

Repellents containing less than 10 per cent DEET or Picaridin are safe for older children if

applied according instructions.

Light mosquito coils or use vaporising mats indoors. Devices that use light to attract and

electrocute insects are not effective.

To reduce the risk of mosquitoes around the home:

Cover all windows, doors, vents and other entrances with insect screens.

Consider also using a surface insecticide spray in areas where mosquitoes like to rest.

During the day, mosquitoes rest and hide in cool shady areas such as in and around the

home before emerging at dusk to feed.

Cleaning up your backyard and removing all water-holding rubbish, including tyres and

containers.

Keeping your lawns mowed.

Flushing and wiping out bird baths and water features once a week.

Filling pot plant bases with sand to avoid standing water.

Storing anything that can hold water undercover or in a dry place and keeping bins covered.

Keeping drains and roof guttering clear to avoid standing water.

Covering or securely screening the openings of septic tanks and rainwater tanks.

For more information and advice on mosquito control during floods go to:

http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/mosquito-control-floods-

andpublic-events.aspx

35

The Lockhart Shire Council would like to remind all landholders that it is an offence to modify the vegetation of the local roadsides and reserves without approval. This includes all forms of modification such as chemical application, slashing, clearing, grazing or cultivation.

Modification results in: loss of local native vegetation; reduction of ground cover, resulting in establishment and spread of weeds; loss of soil moisture through ground exposure; and loss of habitat of local fauna, including beneficial insect predators, and crop pollinators.

Roadside reserves are protected by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and the Native Vegetation Act 2003. The vegetation of the roadsides is significant in being the last remnant source of native flora, providing a vital food source and habitat for native fauna, and provides corridors for fauna movement. Ecological communities are present within the shire, as well as threatened species. Some species are only present on one road, and may exist only in small numbers.

Chemical application is the greatest form of modification and it is illegal to apply chemicals to someone else‟s land, intentional or accidental. Offenders may be reported to the NSW Environment Protection Authority - resulting in investigation, loss of chemical user accreditation, and/or prosecution. Councils are restricted in the types of pesticides that can be applied to the roadside and public places, whereas many more pesticides are registered for use on private agricultural land. Repeated chemical application also increases the potential for the development of chemical resistance.

Applying chemicals to the roadside may also open oneself to possible litigation; should travelling stock move through the area of roadside that a private landholder has sprayed, and residue be found in the meat at slaughter.

Should any modification result in the loss of significant vegetation, reports could also be made to the Office of Environment and Heritage for investigation. The majority of intact remnant vegetation occurs on rural roads, yet the outskirts of some local towns also contain significant vegetation communities, as well as reserves and forests within towns.

If landholders are at all concerned with the fire risk associated with the roadside vegetation or the possible source of weeds, landholders are encouraged to contact Lockhart Shire Council staff for assistance as well as develop appropriate mechanisms within their property.

Lockhart Shire Council is dedicated to implementing safe practices including spraying the roadside shoulders to reduce the chance of ignition from vehicles pulling off the road, and slashing areas at intersections to increase sight distance of traffic.

For further information please contact Council‟s Environmental Officer on (02) 6920 5305.

Protection of Roadside Vegetation

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