June 2015 P.P. No. 100003422

Tasmanian Local Government Loses Dedicated Leader 2015 LGAT Annual Conference Preview Council Support Needed to Combat Myrtle Rust Timely Bridge Upgrades Save Lives Five Minutes with Mayor Peter Freshney The power behind progress Tasmanian Quarry Operations

We work with the world’s We have operated quarries in Northern Bis Industries produces materials using since the late 1970’s and from Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) from biggest mining and resource July 2008 acquired further mining leases these Australian Standards which will assist companies. which provides the capacity to supply our clientele with achieving compliance with approximately 1,000,000 tonnes of crushed the Department of Infrastructure Energy We process, handle, haul quarry products per annum. This capability and Resources (DIER) standard specifications. recognises that Bis Industries is one of the The Tasmanian Quarry operations has just and support millions of largest operators in the extractive industry achieved an LTI record exceeding 13 years tonnes of materials across in Tasmania. across all business units with the entire 75 sites throughout Australia. Key Customers Tasmanian region achieving 10 years LTI free this year. Local Councils, Asphalt/Sealing We’re the safest, the biggest Contractors, Concrete Suppliers and Typical Equipment - Fixed Plant Crushing and have the best people Cement Australia includes: in the business. Contact Details — Jaw crusher Tim Shegog - Northern Business Manager — Gyratory secondary We build big infrastructure Phone: +61 (0)3 6398 9001 and we solve big problems for Email: [email protected] — Vertical impact crushers — Large screen decks our clients. And if solutions Technical Data Bis Industries holds quality certification — Conveyors don’t exist, we create them. to AS/NZS ISO9001:2000, AS/NZS ISO 4801:2001 for Occupational Health & Safety Quarry Operations Management and AS/ NZS ISO 14001:2004 Our quarry operations have depots for Environmental Management for its strategically located across the Northern quarrying operations in Tasmania. half of Tasmania, from St Helens to Burnie. We have fixed crushing assets located at Burnie and Western Junction, and mobile crushing and screening equipment on site at Bell Bay. We also currently provide on site services to Cement Australia at Railton via the Devonport depot.

BIS0007_A4_Ad_FA2.indd 1 5/12/11 5:28 PM The power behind progress Inside this issue Tasmanian Quarry Operations

Editor: Stephanie Watson 7 11 Local Government Association of Tasmania 326 Macquarie Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000 Postal Address: GPO Box 1521, Hobart, Tasmania 7001 Phone: (03) 6233 5119 Fax: (03) 6233 5986 Email: [email protected] Website: www.lgat.tas.gov.au LGAT News is circulated to every elected member BIG and council throughout Tasmania. Circulation also includes senior government staff, state THINKING parliamentarians, interstate and national Local Government representative bodies, and private companies operating in Tasmania. We work with the world’s We have operated quarries in Northern Bis Industries produces materials using The views expressed in LGAT News are not Tasmania since the late 1970’s and from Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) from necessarily endorsed by the Local Government biggest mining and resource July 2008 acquired further mining leases these Australian Standards which will assist Association of Tasmania. No responsibility is companies. which provides the capacity to supply our clientele with achieving compliance with 17 27 accepted by the publishers, the editor, or printer approximately 1,000,000 tonnes of crushed the Department of Infrastructure Energy for the accuracy of information contained in the quarry products per annum. This capability and Resources (DIER) standard specifications. text or advertisements. Advertisements must We process, handle, haul ...... recognises that Bis Industries is one of the The Tasmanian Quarry operations has just President’s Report 2 comply with the relevant provisions of the Trade and support millions of Practices Act 1974. Responsibility for compliance largest operators in the extractive industry achieved an LTI record exceeding 13 years with the Act rests with the person, company, or ...... tonnes of materials across in Tasmania. across all business units with the entire Acting Chief Executive Officer’s Report 3 advertising agency submitting the advertisement. 75 sites throughout Australia. Key Customers Tasmanian region achieving 10 years LTI Neither the publisher, nor the editor accepts free this year. Local Councils, Asphalt/Sealing Policy Perspectives ...... 4 responsibility for advertisements. We’re the safest, the biggest Contractors, Concrete Suppliers and Typical Equipment - Fixed Plant Crushing LGAT News Editorial Policy: contributions must and have the best people Cement Australia includes: be relevant and suitable for Local Government Faces of Local Government ...... 7 and will be used at the discretion of the editor, in the business. Contact Details — Jaw crusher in whole or in part, or not at all, in the next Tim Shegog - Northern Business Manager — Gyratory secondary News and Reviews ...... 9 scheduled issue or subsequent issues. The We build big infrastructure Phone: +61 (0)3 6398 9001 publishers do not pay for editorial submitted. and we solve big problems for Email: [email protected] — Vertical impact crushers For more information on the LGAT News editorial — Large screen decks People and Performance ...... 23 policy, go to www.lgat.tas.gov.au. Technical Data our clients. And if solutions — Conveyors COPYRIGHT © Local Government Association of Bis Industries holds quality certification Tasmania 2015. don’t exist, we create them. to AS/NZS ISO9001:2000, AS/NZS ISO Health and Wellbeing ...... 25 4801:2001 for Occupational Health & Safety All rights reserved. Copyright of articles and photographs in LGAT News remains with individual Quarry Operations Management and AS/ NZS ISO 14001:2004 Environment ...... 27 Our quarry operations have depots contributors and may not be reproduced without for Environmental Management for its permission. Other material may be reproduced, strategically located across the Northern quarrying operations in Tasmania. Business and Finance ...... 32 but only with the written permission of the Local half of Tasmania, from St Helens to Burnie. Government Association of Tasmania. We have fixed crushing assets located at Burnie and Western Junction, and mobile Roads and Infrastructure ...... 35 Layout & Design by: Mark Media crushing and screening equipment on site Ph: (03) 6228 4441 Fax: (03) 6228 9440 at Bell Bay. We also currently provide on For Advertising Enquiries: site services to Cement Australia at Railton via the Devonport depot. Frank Johnstone Ph: 0408 253 241 Fax: (03) 6228 9440 Cover Photo: The Tasmanian Local Government Email: [email protected] sector is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of LGAT President and Mayor of Dorset Council, Barry Jarvis (1954 - 2015) June 2015 LGAT News 1

BIS0007_A4_Ad_FA2.indd 1 5/12/11 5:28 PM president’s report

Tasmanian Local Government Loses Dedicated Leader MAYOR DARYL QUILLIAM, PRESIDENT Local Government Association of Tasmania

The Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) was Local Government can be really buffeted financially by shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death decisions from the other two tiers of government, either of our President, Mayor Barry Jarvis, on 3 June. While only through a direct funding squeeze, or cost shifting, which President since October last can happen with little year, Barry had served on the consultation with our LGAT General Management sector. Last year, the Federal Committee (GMC) since 2011. Government determined there would be a freeze on Having been involved in the indexation of Financial a small, rural council that Assistance Grants for the represents an area which has next three years, having a taken many economic hits significant long-term impact over the last decade, Barry on Local Government had become increasingly funding nationally. As aware of the importance of councils are preparing councils in advocating and budgets, unexpected representing the community. negative impacts from Barry was enjoying the outside our control have a challenges of working with strong impact on our ability the Association’s members, to deliver services to the level the State Government and our communities expect, other stakeholders to further without raising rates too high progress Local Government as a consequence. in Tasmania. On a positive note for the As President, Barry worked 2015/16 financial year, the collaboratively, engaging pledge from the Federal positively with the many Government last year varied stakeholders and to double the Roads to advocating strongly for Recovery budget will allow the best outcomes for the Local Government to ramp Local Government sector up vital road infrastructure and local communities. He works throughout the State. was a well-liked and highly Furthermore, in the recent respected leader. Barry will The Tasmanian Local Government Tasmanian Budget, there be sorely missed by the was commitment to new Local Government sector, sector is deeply saddened by the funding to support council particularly by his colleagues sudden loss of LGAT President and assessments of bridge at Dorset Council and by Mayor of Dorset Council, Barry Jarvis infrastructure that’s critical to members of the Dorset the heavy vehicle network, community. as well as additional funding for high priority infrastructure Under the Rules of the Association, as Vice President, I will take renewal and maintenance in National Parks and reserves. on the role of President until a new President is elected. That It has been a tumultuous time for the Association, with not process will commence in due course. Barry was not only a only the loss of President Barry Jarvis but also CEO, Allan colleague but my friend. My thoughts, and those of all the Garcia’s departure to head up Infrastructure Tasmania. Allan GMC and staff at LGAT, are very much with his family, friends has been a strong advocate for Local Government and no and colleagues at this sad time. doubt he will continue to take a keen interest in the sector. In the meantime, the LGAT team are working hard, to deliver a high level of service to members and are to be commended for their efforts. 22 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 acting chief executive officer’s report

In the Hot Seat DR KATRENA STEPHENSON, ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Local Government Association of Tasmania

It will likely be as strange for you, as me, not seeing Allan Political renewal and unified, strong leadership not only Garcia’s photo on this page. We farewelled Allan on 1 May builds better strategic capability and capacity within councils, and I am holding the fort while the recruitment for our new but strengthens the Local Government ‘brand’ and councils’ CEO is underway. I am confident that Allan will be missed by positions within their communities. The focus must be on the Local Government sector after 16 years at LGAT. I know continuous improvement. Everyone needs to be involved for certain, that he will be very much missed by the LGAT with organisation-wide ownership of processes and the staff. He has always been extremely supportive, open and removal of internal silos. Councils also need to be transparent engaging with the team and we worked very closely together. about data, processes, goals and outcomes. Under his leadership, we have had a high level of morale and It is important to find the right people to support any stability. Under his mentorship, I have had the opportunity to reform activity and empower them. Councils need to be develop new skills and capabilities, and tackle new challenges innovative, rethink how business is done and build strategic regularly, and I am extremely grateful for that. I wish him the relationships. Councils must be sustainable and understand best of luck in his new role. and control costs. Part of this is having strong, effective and In the meantime, things remain busy at LGAT. At the end ‘good’ governance, and appropriately managing risk. There’s of April, the LGAT General Meeting departed from the usual a need to be bold and do things differently. Councils don’t format. We expanded to allow the attendance of additional have to do everything by themselves - they can work across councillors and staff, and engaged a number of speakers boundaries and as a sector on many problems. to help councils in their considerations of the Minister’s Finally, it is clear that no single model will work for all councils, propositions around voluntary amalgamations and strategic or fix all Local Government problems. The structure needs resource-sharing. Over 120 people attended. to be the one that best maintains the ability of communities Our speakers covered the topics of: amalgamations interstate to determine the range of services and taxes that best suits and overseas; strategic resource-sharing; improving internal them. efficiencies through the application of lean thinking; and Local Government research undertaken over the last decade strategies that the private sector employs in relation to also supports these themes. Neither amalgamations, nor business mergers. The day was facilitated and attendees strategic resource-sharing are the panacea to current drew out the key messages from each session which are concerns and future risks for councils. There are critical risk summarised below. factors to be considered in relation to any reform model. All speakers agreed that it is important to set clear, well Tasmanian councils must tread a little cautiously. They defined objectives and keep focused on them. Councils need must fully understand the implications of any decision to be clear on the purpose of any reform from the beginning they make on their communities. In doing so, they will and have a well defined process. Community engagement engage with critical stakeholders and their communities, is critical and consultation must be genuine, accessible, and look to ensuring careful design of their change model; independent and provide balanced information. Key strategic a high level of community support for the direction they and future looking decisions must be based on good research are considering moving along; strong, viable future entities; and data analysis. Importantly, the indicators of future success minimal transaction and transformation costs; and improved need to be determined at the beginning and measured as outcomes for communities. councils move along their chosen path.

June 2015 LGAT News 3 policy perspectives

Developing Age-Friendly Communities KATE HISCOCK, SENIOR POLICY DIRECTOR Local Government Association of Tasmania

‘Improving access: age-friendly communities’, one of the • Communications and information projects within the Tasmanian Government’s Inclusive Ageing: • Community and health services Tasmania 2012-2104 Strategy, aims to increase the capacity of In practical terms, an age-friendly city or community adapts older Tasmanians to access the services, facilities and social its structures and services to be accessible to and inclusive opportunities that exist in their communities. of older people with varying needs and capacities. An The intention is to raise awareness of the core features of age-friendly community is not just ‘elderly friendly’ however. the World Health Organization’s (WHO) age-friendly cities Age-friendly enables people of all ages to actively participate and communities across Tasmania’s local councils, and work in community activities and treats everyone with respect, with a number of councils to include these features in their regardless of their age. communities. Many of the features of age-friendly communities are also The Department of Premier and Cabinet’s Communities, features that benefit people at every stage of their lives. Older Sport and Recreation Tasmania (CSRT), the Local people, children and young people, people with disability and Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) and COTA the broader population all require accessible communities Tasmania are collaborating on this project. COTA has and environments that positively influence health and received State Government funding to support the project’s wellbeing. implementation. There are synergies between the age-friendly guidelines In August 2014, all Tasmanian councils were invited to and other guidelines, initiatives, standards and legislative participate in a survey, to establish benchmark information for requirements. the project with general managers, community development Legislative requirements: officers, planning and asset management staff all receiving • Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Australia) notification of the survey. Of the 29 councils, 22 completed • Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 (Tasmania) the survey, with good distribution across the three regions, • Building Code of Australia and 19 of the 22 indicated they would like to learn more • Planning Directive No 4 – Standards for Single Dwellings about the WHO age-friendly cities core features. (Tasmanian Planning Commission) Regional workshops were planned as a result of the survey. Discretionary All councils were sent a copy of the survey report which • Australian Standards provided collated results to each of the questions. Responses • Residential Development Guidelines (DHHS) to the question, ‘What makes your community a great place • Healthy by Design: A guide to planning and designing in which to age?’ provided useful and diverse information to environments for active living in Tasmania (National help shape the workshops. Heart Foundation of Australia) A workshop was presented in each of the three regions at • Affordable Housing Strategy (DHHS – in development) Launceston, Wynyard and Hobart in November 2014 and Creating age-friendly communities at the Local Government approximately 12 councils participated in the workshops. level is affordable; sometimes it’s about finding different ways Presentations at the workshops explored the core features of of working within budgets. age-friendly communities, planning perspectives on age- friendly communities and data relating to older persons in COTA Tas has developed an ‘Age-friendly Communities’ Tasmania. Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Tasmanian- Age-Friendly-Communities/775792515809844 and also an The WHO details the characteristics of an age-friendly Age-friendly Communities Network. community in eight areas of living: • Outdoor spaces and buildings For further information, please contact: Kate Hiscock at LGAT • Transportation ph. 6233 5965 or email [email protected]; • Housing Margaret Kelly at DPAC ph. 6232 7073 or email • Social participation [email protected]; or COTA Tas ph. 6231 3265 or • Respect and social inclusion email [email protected]. • Civic participation and employment

4 LGAT News June 2015 policy perspectives

Counting Councillors DR KATRENA STEPHENSON, POLICY DIRECTOR Local Government Association of Tasmania For some years now, LGAT has conducted an elected When asked what issues were most important to the member census following Local Government elections. The Local Government sector, the following rated highest (in most recent census was conducted early this year, following descending order): the elections in October 2014. Many of the demographic • Financial Sustainability trends remain very consistent with previous years. • Asset Management The majority of elected members are male (65%) and aged • Economic Development between 55 and 65 years (47%). Most respondents (77%) • Roads are married or in a de facto relationship which is down • Infrastructure somewhat from the previous census. Sixty per cent of • Rate Determination respondents were working full-time or are self-employed The main change from the 2011 survey is that planning and which is more than previous years. Over 70% of those development has dropped off as a priority. This is likely working are based in the private sector. because of the intensive focus on planning reform over the Consistent with previous years, over 90% of respondents last few years. are members of organisations other than council (including LGAT will continue to explore the data in more depth to services and sporting organisations). This demonstrates inform our professional development and policy program. how frequently Local Government councillors make notable and critical contributions to their communities. To view the Preliminary Findings of the Census, visit the LGAT Significantly, with the move to all-in, all-out elections in website at www.lgat.tas.gov.au. 2014, 43% of respondents were newly elected vs only 15.7% of respondents in 2011. This clearly aligns with the significant turnover seen in councillors and mayors at the last election. However, there is still plenty of continuity and corporate knowledge around the table, with 20% of those undertaking the voluntary census having served between 10 and 20 years on council. In the face of a highly contestable all-in, all-out election, we saw much greater effort in relation to campaigning from this year’s survey respondents compared to previous years. Twenty-one per cent reported spending 61-100 hours on their election campaign compared to a majority in 2011 spending 1-10 hours campaigning. However, the primary reasons for running for council remain static from survey to survey: the desire to give back to the community and the encouragement of family, friends and existing councillors appear to play a strong role. Considerably more councillors report that they have undertaken training related to their role; 73% in 2015 compared to 51% in 2011. While this, in part, reflects increased offerings by LGAT as part of the forward training calendar, it is also a reflection of a high level of interest from the large proportion of new councillors. The main difficulties in relation to training relate to the high number of employed councillors who sometimes find it difficult to get time off from their paid employment, or their business.

June 2015 LGAT News 5 policy perspectives

Planning for Healthy Communities KATE HISCOCK, SENIOR POLICY OFFICER Local Government Association of Tasmania The Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) and regional authorities to act as facilitators and leaders using received $40,000 funding under the Social Determinants land use and economic planning to build strong regional food of Health Capacity Building project, funded by Tasmania economies that support community level food security. This Medicare Local. will be delivered by Leah Galvin of the Heart Foundation in partnership with Professor David Adams. LGAT has partnered with the Cradle Coast Authority to combine funding to allocate a total amount of $80,000 to LGAT would like to thank all presenters and attendees for their raise awareness of the social determinants of health and support for this project. deliver training and a small grants program to build the capacity of Tasmanian councils to strategically address health and wellbeing outcomes in their communities. The first stage of the project included two Planning for Healthy Communities Forums, held in May in Brighton and Ulverstone, targeting Local Government community development, planning and policy officers. A key outcome of the forums was to get community development officers, planners, asset managers and other key staff to think about working more strategically across departments on how to achieve better health outcomes for local communities. Topics included: an overview of the social determinants of health; the role of planning in developing healthy communities; a strategic community development approach to improving health and wellbeing; systems thinking for health and wellbeing; accessing locally produced fresh food; and food security. Presenters at the forums included Tasmania Medicare Local, Clarence City Council, Wyndham City Council Victoria, Irene Duckett of Ireneinc Consulting, the Heart Foundation, Waratah-Wynyard Council and Brighton TASMANIAN Community Blitz. MOUNTAIN WATERS The second stage of the project is a training and a small grants NATURAL SPRING WATER program. This is designed to enable councils to either build on a project to better deliver community health outcomes, or undertake strategic planning to better understand the impacts and needs of the social determinants of health in their community. This is perfection, The third stage of the project will be a forum preceding the we can’t improve LGAT Annual Conference. Part one of the forum will include on it, all we do is a keynote presentation focusing on Local Government as a package it! change agent to achieve better health outcomes, presented by Ian McBurney. The second part of the forum will be a workshop on increasing the capability of local governments tasmanianmountainwaters.com.au

66 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 faces of local government Five Minutes with Mayor Peter Freshney How long have you resided in Latrobe and what attracted you to the area? We have lived at Shearwater since holidaying here in the summer of 1998. A lot has changed since then, however there is still a real ‘holiday feel’ in the greater Port Sorell area. What motivates you in life? Whatever I do, or get involved in, has always been underpinned by a desire to help-out, or to make a difference. I’ve been a part of many clubs, committees and organisations and looking back, it seems that making a difference has always been the common denominator. Name three qualities that you appreciate most in people. 1. Honesty 2. Integrity 3. Humility How do you like to spend your free time? I don’t have much in the way of free time but when I do, I tend to be a bit of a homebody. I’m not a great socialiser however my mayoral role has changed that to a large degree. Now I am starting to question why I didn’t attend more community events previously. I value the time I get to spend with my Peter Freshney amongst thriving property wife, Robyn and our family, especially our four grandchildren, development at Port Sorell as they grow up all too quickly. Photo courtesy of The Advocate When you were a child, you wanted to be... A carpenter, but that soon changed once I undertook a skills What do you enjoy most about your role as Mayor? analysis (technical term for a collapsed cubby house). After Meeting and working with people in our community. I that, I had no real idea until being encouraged in Year 10 to particularly enjoy spending time with the more experienced sit an entrance exam for the Postmaster-General (PMG) - the members of our community and have enjoyed some pre-cursor to Telstra. memorable moments witnessing the potential within our Name three previous occupations you have held youth. People make the job worthwhile. in the past. What kind of advances would you like to see made I’ve always worked in the communications industry and have in the region? had many and varied roles ranging from labourer, to cable Greater co-operation between councils and all levels of jointing and on into supervision and management. I currently government, and a concerted effort to provide real benefits to own and manage my own communications contracting the general population. I’d like to see politics taken out of the company, employing fourteen staff. decision-making process and an opportunity for every voice What motivated you to become involved in to be heard, not just the loudest. Local Government? What has been the most memorable moment of your I wanted to be able to make a difference on a wider scale Local Government career? and to contribute to my community in a range of different Primary school assemblies are always a real highlight, seeing ways. Local Government provides an opportunity to work young people just beginning their life-long learning journey. closely with those you serve and you are never far away from What has been the most embarrassing moment of your genuine, hardworking people who will quickly bring you back Local Government career? to reality if you suffer from an overdose of self-importance. When forgetting a name, or losing my place when working I love working with and for everyday folk and I will always through a prepared speech. appreciate the opportunity and responsibility I have when working on their behalf. What’s the best advice anyone has ever given you? Treat others the way you would like to be treated. How many years have you served as: Councillor - 4 years What word best describes you? Mayor - I’m now half way through my first year Different

June 2015 LGAT News 7 faces of local government Former Aldermen Recognised in

Two former Aldermen have been inducted onto the 2015 Tasmanian Honour Roll for Women, recognising women who have made a significant contribution to Tasmania. Life Member of the Local Government Association of Tasmania Former Launceston City Council Alderman Margot Smart OAM T(LGAT), Sue Smith, and former Launceston City Council Hwas inducted onto the Honour RollR for her service to Local Alderman, Margot Smart OAM have been inducted onto the Government, business and industry, and community service. Tasmanian Honour Roll for Women by the Minister for Women, Margot was nominated by the Australian Local Government Jacquie Petrusumaasmanian MP. Women’sonour Association Tasmania (ALGWA), of whicholl she is a Life Member and was Tasmanian Branch Secretary from 1996- Sue Smith served as President of LGAT from 1994­-1998. 1998. Margot has been an enthusiastic mentor for ALGWA’s She was first elected to the Ulverstone Council in 1981 and as WomenCan campaign by encouraging and supporting women Warden of Ulverstone in 1992. The 1993 amalgmations saw Sue standing for Local Government. Margot served as a Launceston become the first female Mayor of Central Coast Council, a role City Council Alderman from March 1992 until October 2007. she held until 1998. Sue was as a Member of the Legislative Council in 1997 and retired from Parliament in 2013. For more details, visit www.dpac.tas.gov.au.

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88 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 news and reviews

(L-R) Deputy Mayor Ald Ron Christie; Ald Eva Ruzicka; Ald Tanya Denison; Ald Jeff Briscoe; Lord Mayor Sue Hickey; Mayor of Fuzhou, Mr Yang Yimin; and Tasmanian Premier, the Hon Will Hodgman MP pictured in front of a traditional, lacquer vase presented to the as a gift from the City of Fuzhou Photography by Alistair Bett Hobart Forges Closer Links with Fuzhou On the back of the hugely successful trade mission to from forging closer ties with Fuzhou. “True relationships China, the City of Hobart signed a Letter of Intent with are built first between people and then between cities, the Chinese City of Fuzhou when the Mayor of Fuzhou, Mr and Mayor Yang’s pressing desire to sign a letter of intent Yang Yimin and a delegation of Government and business demonstrates that Tasmania and Hobart are firmly in the officials visited Australia in April. Chinese spotlight,” Ald Hickey said. Tasmania and the Fujian Province of which Fuzhou is the Deputy Lord Mayor, Alderman Ron Christie said Fuzhou is capital, have enjoyed a Sister State / Province relationship a city that is undergoing rapid growth and infrastructure for 34 years. Over the last 12 months, Fuzhou has expressed development. “Education has a major presence and the a strong desire to seek closer links with Hobart. City is also home to significant aquaculture and tourism industries,” he said. The Lord Mayor of Hobart, Ald Sue Hickey said Hobart and the State for the matter, stands to reap significant benefits

New Code of Conduct for Local Government The Tasmanian Government has introduced legislation for new laws to strengthen the code of conduct for Local Government. While the Government accepts that the vast majority Under the new laws, the Director of Local Government will of councillors uphold the highest levels of probity, after have the capacity to throw out a complaint if it is deemed consultation with the Local Government Association of frivolous. They will also ensure that only people whose Tasmania, a new Code of Conduct panel will be established principal place of residence is in Tasmania can stand for with additional powers which will also cut red tape by a Local Government election in the State. The new laws replacing the current 29 panels with just one. will also help stop a repeat of the ‘Gary the Goat’ saga by removing red tape that doesn’t pass the commonsense test. The new panel will have the power to fine councillors and aldermen who don’t comply with the panel’s directions. These laws will also act on a number of issues raised in a They will also have the power to suspend, or even remove recent investigation conducted by the Director of Local the councillor or alderman out of office if they continue to Government, specifically in relation to how councils deal with seriously flout the rules. The Minister for Planning and Local private and confidential information that is relevant to an Government, the Hon Peter Gutwein MP said, “We want to agenda item of a council meeting. send a clear message that ratepayers expect high levels of professional conduct and if you break the rules, it’s three strikes and you’re out.”

June 2015 LGAT News 9 news and reviews

(L-R) Ms Kerry Graham - Director Collaboration for Impact, Emeritus Professor Richard Henry AM, Her Excellency Lady Cosgrove, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Mr Rodney Greene and Miss Olivia Lucas of Burnie City Council, and Dr Andrew Young, CEO The Centre for Social Impact. Burnie Funding Win to Tackle Worklessness Congratulations to Burnie City Council for its successful face. “We can’t deny that there are families struggling in our project proposal, Burnie Works, one of 11 finalists shortlisted community and this funding is vital to enhance programs that for The Search funding of $1 million to tackle worklessness, focus and support complex issues such as unemployment, which was announced the winner at an event hosted by the social and economic disadvantage and intergenerational Governor-General in Sydney, on 18 March. poverty,” she said. The first of its kind in Australia, The Search is an initiative convened by the Centre for Social Impact that aims to develop the capacity of communities, created by a pioneering group of funders who are backing a new approach to tackling J Wright some of our country’s toughest and most entrenched social problems. Technologies Audio Visual • Security • Data • Communications Burnie’s proposal had a clear focus on worklessness, using a collective impact framework to build a brighter future for ◊ Sales the local community. The funding means further work can ◊ Install be undertaken across multiple sector to address complex ◊ Service issues, including disengagement from education, social disadvantage and exclusion, intergenerational poverty and ◊ Training worklessness. ◊ Support Mayor Anita Dow said, we are beyond thrilled to be given this 1300 598 324 www.jwtech.com.au support to tackle some of the major issues our community

10 LGAT News June 2015 Light up the Lane The City of Hobart celebrated National Youth Week with Local, young musicians, Close Counters and KOWL filled its second annual Light up the Lane digital and performing Criterion Alleyway throughout the night with DJ and arts festival, held in Mathers Place on 17 April. The event, electronic music that transformed the lane into a buzzing transformed Mathers Place into a huge temporary digital hotspot, while the Mathers House courtyard set the stage art gallery, attracting 1,000 guests, with Hobart locals for laidback live acoustic performances. A range of Hobart’s coming along to celebrate and show their support for our mobile food vendors supported the event, supplying a local youth community. range of sweet and savoury treats to complement the magical atmosphere. The night dazzled its visitors with a dynamic and electric display of digital artwork submissions that included The event was supported by the Tasmanian Government animation, graphic design, photography, short films, through the Department of Premier and Cabinet’s National documentaries, music, dance and written word. Youth Week Grant program.

Heritage Highway Rated Among Top Ten Road Trips in Australia Tasmania’s Heritage Highway Tourism Region has been rated Sky Scanner is recognised as the world’s travel search engine by leading travel search engine, Sky Scanner, as one of the as it compares millions of travel and tourism sites to provide top ten road trips in Australia, coming fifth behind Victoria’s travellers with the cheapest deals in flights, accommodation Great Ocean Road, the Sydney to Melbourne drive, the and car hire. Sky Scanner has 4.7 million followers on Nullarbor Plain route, and Uluru to Kings Canyon. Facebook, to whom the Heritage Highway Tourism Region is now being profiled and promoted. The Heritage Highway road trip, which stretches from Breadalbane in the north to Pontville in the south, was rated To see for yourself the excellent tourism offerings in the for the region’s magnificent heritage villages, landscape, Heritage Highway Region, visit www.heritagehighway.com.au. local gourmet food produce and the opportunities offered to getaway in heritage atmospheric cottages.

June 2015 LGAT News 11 Sorell Mayor Kerry Vincent and Dunalley Primary School student, Sarahjoy Webster race down the slide at the official opening of the Imlay Street Park redevelopment Local Kids’ Vision Becomes a Reality officially opened the redeveloped Imlay Street Park in March, which is proving very popular with local children. The redevelopment came about when Dunalley youngster, Plans are now underway for the development of a youth Sarahjoy Webster, wrote to Council in 2012 and requested an skating facility at the park and a Dunalley Canal Walkway is upgrade to the play equipment to something more fun for under construction to link the foreshore walkway with the the young people of Dunalley. Following the devastating fires playground.LGAT: Magazine - V2 that swept through the area in 2013, Council began working with Sarahjoy and students from Dunalley Primary School about their vision for the park. A water theme was selected to tie in with Dunalley’s relationship to the water and the park’s proximity to Blackmans Bay. The children came up with the park design and layout, and selected play equipment they liked, including the unique double slide down the hillside. The park includes equipment for all ages and abilities. At the opening, Mayor Kerry Vincent unveiled a storyboard outlining the redevelopment of the park and Sarahjoy Webster spoke about her experiences with the project. Supporters of the redevelopment who were in attendance watched as Mayor Vincent and Sarahjoy raced each other down the double slide. Several generous organisations and groups have made financial donations towards the park’s redevelopment including Variety Tasmania, the Lions Club, Hobart City Council and the Portarlington Girl Guides from Victoria, who began fundraising following a trip to Tasmania when the bushfires struck. Mayor Vincent said the children of Dunalley Primary School have been instrumental in designing the layout and choosing the equipment for Imlay Street Park. “In rural areas, most of the post-bushfire recovery focus tends to be on community assets and individual’s homes, whilst very little focus is placed on youth and children,” he said. “The redevelopment of Imlay Street Park has been a significant step in helping the local children and youth in their recovery over the past two years.”

1212 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 news and reviews TasmanianExcellence Local Recognised Government Excellence and leadership in Tasmania’s Local Government sector was recognised at the Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA) Tasmania annual awards lunch on 16 April, in Launceston.

LGMA Tasmania President, Karen Burnie City Council took out two awards Hampton said that the Awards are this year. Council’s efforts in pursuing a great opportunity to recognise a collective impact approach to and celebrate the achievements of economic development and supporting Local Government managers and a number of significant long-term to encourage the adoption of best community collaborations to improve practice in Tasmanian councils. school retention rates, and provide “The Awards are an opportunity to greater opportunities for employment recognise the outstanding work being participation was recognised through undertaken by councils across the State,” the Community Partnerships and Mrs Hampton said. Collaboration Award. (L-R) LGMA Tas President Karen Burnie City Council also won the Hampton presenting the Management Innovative Management Initiatives Excellence Award to Shane Crawford of Award for their innovative use of LEAN Devonport City Council) Thinking Techniques as a tool to focus on continual improvement across the This year, Devonport City Council organisation to improve service Technical Support Supervisor, Jamie delivery, manage costs, allocate Goodwin was presented with the resources and manage the pressure to Emerging Leader of the Year Award, and do more with less. Shane Crawford, Council’s Executive Manager Corporate and Business Services, won the Management (L-R) LGMA Tasmania President, Excellence Award. Karen Hampton and Carolyn Lucas of Burnie City Council pictured with the Community Partnerships and Collaboration Award

(L-R) Mike Wall from Insight GIS and Jamie Goodwin of Devonport City Council with the Emerging Leader of the Year Award (L-R) Management Challenge State Final team members, Robbie Shafe and Laura Eaton, pictured with their awards (L-R) Paul Curtis of TechnologyOne, The Tasmanian State Finalist of the Emma Cumming and Peter Porch of LGMA National Management Challenge Burnie City Council with the Innovative was also announced, with Kingborough Management Initiatives Award Council winning this years’ State Final. Congratulations to all nominees and award winners. For further information on the Awards, contact LGMA Tasmania CEO, Pam Crawford, on 0409 284 063, or email [email protected].

April 2015 LGAT News 13 news and reviews Long-term Vision will Deliver Best Outcomes for Tasmanian Community MIKE BREWSTER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER TasWater As July approaches, TasWater gears up to take on the next three years under a whole new paradigm of pricing and services. It marks the start of our second price and service plan which will take us to 2018. The final determination handed down by the Economic next decade, one only has to reflect on the discussion still Regulator is not our preferred model and it will test the current over water quality issues in the North-East of the organisation. While TasWater has got the go ahead to State. National attention has been focused on the town of spend in excess of $300 million over the next three years on Pioneer due to a research study by Macquarie University on infrastructure development, the challenge will be to find the source of lead in its water. Several towns across the region the required capital to bring our aging and non-performing record lead levels above acceptable standards. TasWater has infrastructure up to acceptable standards over the longer- instigated a plan to provide alternative water sources and term. health authorities acted years ago to prevent people drinking the water. However the fact remains, with 27 towns still under The Economic Regulator’s revised methodology will mean Boil Water Alerts or Do Not Consume notices, much work that some large developments, like the Launceston Sewerage remains to be done. Improvement Project, may have to be postponed or delayed further. It may also result in increases in prices being imposed Projects approved over the last three months include a after 2018 at a level higher than we would like. water treatment plant on Flinders Island, a new pipeline and treatment for water in Ringarooma, Branxholm, Derby and TasWater is concerned that the current regulatory framework, Legerwood, a pipeline linking Avoca to Fingal’s new water as interpreted by the Economic Regulator, results in an treatment plant, plus more than $3 million for a new pipeline outcome that does not adequately take into account longer- linking Gretna up to Lake Fenton in the Mount Field National term implications beyond the three-year regulatory period. Park. Pleasingly, the Central Highlands Council has provided I believe that being locked into a regime that only focuses the necessary additional financial support to make the Gretna on three years does not deliver the best outcome for the upgrade viable. community over the long-term. As a result, we have started a dialogue with our council owners and the State Government TasWater is committed to its core responsibilities of providing on setting a framework that will better manage future Tasmania with clean drinking water and a sewerage network determinations. that meets current day environmental standards. We are making good progress and while the task ahead remains a Our vision must be for the next decade and we need to set challenge, with cooperation, good planning and vision, we up a regulatory framework that guides us into the future. If will succeed. anyone doubts the importance of TasWater’s task over the

1414 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 news and reviews

Created with smart mapping technology, the digital Sharland map tells the tales of Launceston when it was just 20 years old Council History Map Sits Well with the Future Launceston was once so full of sinners it was declared ‘too wicked to be saved’ by a group of vacating religious folk. This particularly bleak assessment is just one of many fascinating stories in an online City of Launceston smart map that delves back nearly two centuries. Created with smart mapping technology from Esri Australia, edge of government-citizen interaction. “Previously, the the digital map tells the tales of a burgeoning city when it public were required to contact councils to access paper was just 20 years old and home to a mere 2,000 people. copies of maps – with the process resulting in restrictions on viewing times and strain on available resources. Now City of Launceston Spatial Sciences Manager, Alex Crothers, council information is available 24 hours a day to anyone said the map opens up the city’s colourful history. “The who needs it,” he said. “This has also had a significant map, based on an 1826 map by surveyor, William Stanley positive impact on budget, with Council saving more Sharland, is one of the earliest and most detailed survey than $100,000 during the past year alone, as a result of maps of the fledgling settlement,” Mr Crothers said. streamlining its processes.” “On the digital map, elements of the original map – such as property boundaries and structures – are layered over The City of Launceston history smart map can be found at modern maps of Launceston, including satellite imagery,” http://arcg.is/1rVV1O6. he said. “These are augmented with titillating and detailed histories and photographs of the residents and buildings of the time.” But while the smart map – which has attracted more than 5,000 views since it was launched last year – looks to the city’s past, it is joined on Council’s mapping portal by a range of digital maps that are clearly vital for its future. “We initially provided digital maps of our planning scheme, but the benefits of smart mapping are so significant we have moved far beyond that,” Mr Crothers said. “Our online maps now enable the community, businesses and organisations to instantly access information and applications such as Council planning data, flood maps and parking areas.” Esri Australia Local Government specialist, Bertrand Gauch

said the City of Launceston’s approach is at the cutting www.cartoonstock.com.au

June 2015 LGAT News 15 Tasmanian case study - Big hART’s Acoustic Life of Sheds, held on Tasmania’s North West Coast. Photography by Beth Sometimes Councils Connecting their Community Arts Projects Online Creating Australia, the independent, not-for-profit and value of the CACD sector by documenting over 500 organisation providing support and leadership for the CACD projects online. One Tasmanian project already Community Arts and Cultural Development (CACD) participating is BighART’s Acoustic Life of Sheds, held sector is making new connections online, presenting an in March in the Waratah-Wynyard Local Government exciting opportunity for councils to promote their creative Area. Its entry can be viewed at http://placestories.com/ projects and to identify methods that have effectively been story/159644. delivered in other communities. In 2015, Creating Australia are gaining a deeper CACD projects aim to activate and develop individuals and understanding of the nature of CACD practice by building communities through artistic and cultural practice. Projects a national archive of CACD projects. Councils are invited to are happening in communities throughout Australia and participate through sharing CACD case studies online, as are providing opportunities for the artistic and authentic well as promoting the opportunity to the community, arts expression, acknowledgement and celebration of personal and cultural organsiations active in their area. and shared stories and culture. As a practice, CACD has demonstrated its ability to have positive impact on the Find out more at http://creatingaustralia.org.au/cacd500, health and wellbeing of communities, and stimulate artistic or email Chloe Beevers at Creating Australia at projects@ innovation and vibrancy. creatingaustrlia.org.au. The CADC500 Project was launched by Creating Australia BIG in 2014, with the aim of demonstrating the size, diversity THINKING

103rd LGAT Annual Conference 22 - 24 July 2015 The Tramsheds, Launceston Enquiries: www.lgat.tas.gov.au, or phone (03) 6233 5966 Register by Wednesday, 1 July 2015 1616 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 BIG THINKING

103rd LGAT Annual Conference 22 - 24 July 2015 The Tramsheds, Launceston Enquiries: www.lgat.tas.gov.au, or phone (03) 6233 5966 Register by Wednesday, 1 July 2015 June 2015 LGAT News 17 103rd LGAT Annual Conference BIG THINKING 22-24 July 2015 The Tramsheds, Launceston Register at www.lgat.tas.gov.au, or phone (03) 6233 5966

BIG Thinking will be a key focus of the 103rd LGAT Annual Conference which is returning to Launceston as part of a week of events being held for the Local Government sector. Local Government reform, adapting to change, leading in challenging times, managing and reshaping organisational capacity, redefining age friendly communities, transforming empty places into creative spaces, and effectively promoting council services, are among the topics to be explored this year by the exceptional line-up of local, national and international speakers.

Tmi Cox Associate Professor Conference MC & Panel Discussion Roberta Ryan Facilitator Why Local Government Matters This year, we are delighted to be What do people really think joined by Tim Cox who will MC the about Local Government? What conference and facilitate the Panel are community views about Discussion, Whose Community is it amalgamation? Would people be Anyway? on 23 July with panellists happy to pay more rates for better Michael Bailey (TCCI), Kim Goodes services? Despite lots of claims (TasCOSS), Roger Jaensh MP and Mayor Tony Foster. Many will and counter claims about these issues – until now, there remember Tim Cox from ABC Radio where he presided over has been no evidence on which we can begin to have an the Statewide Mornings program for over a decade, covering informed discussion. This session presents the findings of stories from across Tasmania and beyond. His broadcasting the first ever Australian survey of community attitudes to career has taken Tim to Queensland in recent years and we Local Government, conducted by the Australian Centre of look forward to welcoming him back. Excellence for Local Government (ACELG), which surveyed 2,000 Australians to find out why Local Government matters. Sir Bob Parker Associate Professor Roberta Ryan is the Director of the The Challenges of Change and Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government within Leadership in the University of Technology in Sydney, and a leading social Local Government research and policy, program evaluation and stakeholder engagement practitioner and researcher with over 30 years’ Sponsored by TASCORP experience. Sir Bob Parker will take us through his experience of the politics and process of change in Local Government, and the personal challenges of leading a community through New Zealand’s greatest natural disaster. Unlock your How do we manage our community’s expectations for services and quality of life against the pressure to hold, and leadership potential even decrease, costs. Is it even possible? And is the Local Government agenda being increasingly dominated by the Designed to enhance your performance and drive politics of party at the expense of community driven vision? your council forward, our Company Directors Course Sir Bob Parker spent more than two decades in Local has been inspiring success for 40 years. Government in New Zealand, including two terms as Mayor of Monday 25 to Friday 29 May 2015, Hobart Christchurch City Council at the time of the catastrophic 2010- 2011 earthquakes. He won wide praise for his role, leadership To find out more contact t: 03 6242 2206 and work in response to the quake that claimed 185 lives, and damaged tens of thousands of buildings, and was knighted for his services to the disaster recovery. Sir Bob Parker appears by arrangement with Saxton Speakers Bureau. 04791-1_15

1818 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 news and reviews

Ian McBurney Mayor Brad Pettitt Change: Frightening, Inevitable and Local Government Reform – what a Ride! Lessons from the West Sponsored by the Australian Bureau In 2011, the Western Australian State of Statistics Government announced it would The world is getting better and better, undertake the largest reform of Local and worse and worse, faster and Government in a generation. This faster. But doesn’t Local Government controversial plan included halving change with glacial pace? Big the number of metropolitan local changes are afoot that require big thinking. Everything from governments to enhance the economic viability and capacity transport to energy, building design to communication, to of Local Government. In early 2015, just months before the the things we buy, are undergoing massive change as we new structure was to be implemented, the State Government face social, economic and ecological breakdown. Some old walked away from the process in the face of widespread ideas need changing and the world is changing its view as protest. Mayor Brad Pettitt will discuss the lessons learnt to what constitutes meaning and success. How can Local from the fraught reform process, how Fremantle Council Government deal with this fast changing world and remain engaged with its community and, in the wake of the failed relevant and fresh? amalgamations, how it ensured that other aspects of reform were able to proceed. Ian McBurney is an ecological sustainability practitioner who has been working collaboratively with councils and Mayor Brad Pettitt was elected as the Mayor of the City of their communities for 15 years. Through his work, Ian has Fremantle in 2009, having served four years as a councillor. inspired and enabled tens of thousands of people in business, Prior to taking up the role , Mayor Pettitt was the Dean of government and across the community to move towards a the School of Sustainability at Murdoch University, where he better future. continues to be involved on a part-time basis.

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June 2015 LGAT News 19 news and reviews

Jacinthe Galpin Marcus Westbury The New Culture Club: Building Transforming Empty Places into resilience from within Creative Spaces Sponsored by Christie Parksafe Sponsored by Stornoway No matter what strategy, process, In 2008, Marcus Westbury launched concept, or function you seek to the Renew Newcastle program which deliver, if your Council’s culture is has “borrowed” more than 70 empty not prepared, or supportive of it, it is buildings and has involved more than almost doomed to fail. a dozen private property owners to launch more than a 170 new businesses, community projects and creative initiatives. Using a risk-based approach mixed with a few lessons from history, this interactive workshop will help participants: Since its inception, Newcastle has experienced a 25% increase understand why culture is important and the drivers of good in tourism and a 60-90% drop in vacancies in the CBD. Find and bad cultures; undertake a quick assessment of their own out how this unique, low-cost, iterative activation strategy can organisational culture; learn what it takes to shift culture; and help your community find creative ways to turn vacant shops identify measures to enhance their organisation’s culture. and empty offices into attractors and incubators for new, creative community initiatives.

Phil Preston Julie AnderSson Facilitating Private and Social Sector Redefining ge-FriendlyA Partnerships Sponsored by Stornoway Sponsored by Cambron Councils are increasingly being asked Is it possible to create incentive to plan and provide more for their for large and small companies to ‘ageing populations’ but what does work alongside the community and this really mean? provide social benefits in the course Redefining what age means is a of doing business? If so, how can Local Government become critical starting point. Moving away from the notion of ‘age’ facilitators of the process? as a number gives greater focus on planning from a whole- Facilitating these types of partnerships can reduce financial of-life perspective. Councils can be better prepared to make and service-delivery demands, and create a platform for transformational changes through working closely with their cross-sector collaborations. Phil Preston will give us an outline communities and learning from each other. Gain key insights of the drivers of this emerging field and how it is being into Clarence City Council’s 10-year journey of redefining approached in Local Government, before getting hands-on positive ageing. with a mapping tool that will help your Council become a facilitator.

Mark Wells Dan Casey What did the Romans ever do for us? Managing and Reshaping Sponsored by Christie Parksafe Organisational Capacity Councils are missing out on Sponsored by Cambron many legitimate opportunities to No matter the size or location, communicate and promote the councils are expected to manage ever benefits they offer their ratepayers changing and increasing demands on and the communities they serve. their services. This situation becomes Operating within a framework of a compounded when resourcing simply doesn’t meet demand. cynical media and community, where The key to effectively managing this situation is reviewing the benchmark of belief is one of governments wasting and reshaping existing organisational capacity. Councils need ratepayers’ money, it is more imperative than ever to balance to consider how to deal better with the increasing demands negative perceptions with factual realities. This presentation on their services by rethinking their capacity models. This will assist councils to: identify appropriate projects worthy of presentation will provide some insight into how you can media and community attention; create a structured on- assess your current organisational capacity and then maximise going strategic communication blueprint; and successfully your capacity by identifying how to shift to capacity flexibility. execute a recurring public affairs program to communicate council services, achievements and initiatives to their various stakeholders.

2020 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 news and reviews

2015al Loc Government Awards for Excellence Special thanks to our Sponsors and Sponsored by MAV Insurance Supporters The winners of the 2015 Local Government Awards for Platinum Sponsor – MAV Insurance Excellence will be announced from 11.15am, on 23 July, Gold Sponsors – Commonwealth Bank, Dial Before You Dig, at the Tramsheds by MAV President, Clr Bill McArthur. The Aerus Technologies, Relevant Drug Testing Solutions Local Government Awards for Excellence aim to promote outstanding achievement and inspire leading management Silver Sponsors – Christie Parksafe, Stornoway, Cambron practice and continuous improvement in Local Government. Valued Contributors – Jardine Lloyd Thompson, City of Launceston, Australian Bureau of Statistics, TASCORP, Regional Development Australia – Tasmania, the City of Launceston Visitor Information Centre, Glen Shian Vineyard, Tahune Airwalk, RiskComply

2015 Local Government Research Symposium 21 July 2015 The Tramsheds, Launceston Coordinated by the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government in partnership with LGAT JLT Night at the Museum • Showcasing examples of current Local Government Sponsored by Jardine Lloyd Thompson research and practice relating to key policy issues • Providing opportunities for Local Government Join delegates, sponsors, speakers and LGAT staff for a fun practitioners to share information and outcomes of and fascinating evening at the Queen Victoria Museum and their research projects; and Art Gallery (QVMAG). From 4.15pm on 23 July, walk among • Discussing the implications of research for the dinosaurs, view artefacts from Australia’s first shipwrecked Local Government policy and practice merchant vessel - the Sydney Cove, and Tasmanian rocks dating back 545 million years. You will also find a fascinating Registration costs $50 collection of early Tasmanian historical objects including Register at www.acelg.org.au/2015symposium examples from the convict and bushranger era. Drinks and For enquiries, phone ACELG on (02) 9614 8223, canapés will be served in the QVMAG foyer from 5pm, where or email [email protected] you can take part in the ALGWA raffle.

LGAT Pre-Conference Forum: Building Healthy Communities 20 July 2015 Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Launceston Make your Council a change agent for a healthier community and find out how your Council can use land use and economic planning to build strong, regional food economies that support community level food security. This free forum, coordinated by LGAT MAV Insurance Conference Dinner in partnership with Tasmania Medicare Local and the Enjoy a 3-course meal and fine wine in the company of Cradle Coast Authority, will commence with a keynote delegates at the MAV Insurance Conference Dinner presentation by change and sustainability practitioner, commencing at 7.15pm on 24 July, at the Hotel Grand Ian McBurney, followed by a workshop with Chancellor Launceston. Down Syndrome Tasmania’s dance Leah Galvin of the Heart Foundation in partnership troupe, the BrightStars, will kick off the evening with two with Professor David Adams. dance performances, and musical entertainment by Everburn after dinner will top off a memorable evening. Partners are Register at www.lgat.tas.gov.au welcome. For enquiries, phone Kate Hiscock on 6233 5965, or email [email protected]

June 2015 LGAT News 21 news and reviews Interim Planning Scheme for Hobart Declared The new Hobart Interim Planning Scheme 2015 came into effect 1979. The Sullivans Cove Planning Scheme 1997 will remain on 20 May. The scheme was prepared as part of the statewide as a separate planning scheme until the statewide planning planning reform process and the Southern Tasmanian scheme is developed by the State Government, scheduled for Regional Planning Initiative. The cooperative approach 2016. The Interim Scheme will be on public display and open involved the 12 council’s of the Southern Tasmanian Council’s for comment until 13 July. Further information can be found Authority. The Interim Scheme will replace the City of Hobart on the City of Hobart website at www.hobartcity.com.au. Planning Scheme 1982 and the Battery Point Planning Scheme

Mural Unveiled at Burnett Street Underpass A new artwork has been unveiled at the Burnett Street underpass in North Hobart as part of a pilot project for Community Art Walls, linked to the City of Hobart’s Graffiti Management Plan. All the walls leading into the underpass had been covered in bright and colourful murals by young artists, aged from 12-18, under the watchful eye of a local mentor artist. Prior to the installation of the mural, the site was frequently tagged and vandalised, giving the perception that the area was unsafe. Council also received numerous complaints from the community about it being unsightly. Lord Mayor Sue Hickey said the mural is a fantastic example of organisations and the community working together to improve community safety and at the same time, promoting arts, culture and engaging young people in a legal outlet for their creative passions.

2222 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 people and performance Effective, Ethical Interactions for Elected Members and Employees DIANE MERRYFULL, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Integrity Commission At a council, elected members and council employees both Inappropriate interactions between employees and elected have key roles to play. Elected members set the strategic members can cause considerable confusion and tension in direction for council and make the decisions for which they a council by undermining the proper reporting lines, and have been given legal responsibility. Council employees placing individuals in situations where they may have to work to the general manager, implementing the strategy refuse a request from someone with whom they need to have set by the elected members and provide support to their a productive working relationship. This can affect the ethical decision-making. culture of council as a whole. Elected members and employees The Local Government Act 1993 perform public functions, so both (s 28) provides that: groups are obliged to act in the (3) In performing any function public interest and comply with under this Act or any other legislative, code of conduct and Act, a councillor must not – policy obligations. While their roles may be distinct, without (a) direct or attempt to direct an proper management, interactions employee of the council in between elected members and relation to the discharge of employees can disrupt council the employee’s duties; operations and detract from the Section 28A provides that service both parties provide to the elected members are to request community. information through the general Interactions between elected manager. The codes of conduct members and employees centre of many councils address elected largely on access to, and provision member/employee interactions, of, information required by elected while a number of councils also members to perform their role. have a specific policy outlining Contact between the two parties appropriate or inappropriate is essential to a smooth running interactions. council, however this contact needs to be carefully managed It is important that any policy addresses specific high-risk to ensure that information is provided appropriately, and that areas for interaction (for example, when an elected member no undue influence is applied to has an interest in a particular decision of council) and it should either party. clearly outline the accepted processes, including how to Some of the issues that can develop without appropriate record and report interactions. If the policy is made public, management include: then the community can be reassured that these relationships are being effectively managed and therefore public trust in • Elected members approaching employees for information the council can be enhanced. that is not available to the public, or to other elected members; Having clear, transparent processes in place ensures that • Employees providing information to elected members elected members are able to access the information they without being aware of the motivation for, or context of need to successfully represent and serve their community, the request (including whether or not the elected member while ensuring that both elected members and employees has a conflict of interest regarding the issue); have a productive working relationship, performing their roles • Pressure (or perceived pressure) placed on employees to with ethics and integrity. make a particular recommendation, or prioritise a certain issue; The Integrity Commission can assist councils to manage ethical • Inappropriate interaction between elected members and issues through training and resources. Contact them at employees, for example, through social contact (including [email protected]. social media); and • Employees approaching elected members in relation to their own work or personal circumstances.

June 2015 LGAT News 23 people and performance Good Practice Approaches to Leadership in Councils New research by the Australian Centre for Excellence in A good leadership program will have robust support Local Government titled Council Approaches to Leadership: structures with tailored content and methods of learning Research into Good Practice, explores the elements of that is relevant to the organisational context. successful council-based leadership programs, highlighting Measuring the progress of a leadership program helps key themes for contemporary Local Government leaders to understand and assess its organisational impact and consider. return on investment; this area of evaluation is identified The research said that with councils around the country as a particular challenge to further develop and improve. investing significant resources into staff leadership In addition to these foundational areas, examples of development initiatives, they wanted to ensure the innovation and ideas for leadership programs for Local effectiveness of such programs and to explore ways to keep Government are outlined within the report from the eight them relevant, strong and sustainable. councils involved in the project. It highlighted three aspects of a ‘good practice approach’ to Council Approaches to Leadership: Research into Good Practice an in-house leadership initiative: can be accessed online at A leadership ethos that is values-based influences the www.acelg.org.au/file/2552/download. culture of the organisation. It is fundamental to guiding behaviours, staff wellbeing and organisational potential, and needs championing by senior management to be sustainable and reflect local and sector contexts.

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2424 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 health and wellbeing

Partnerships for a Healthier Tasmania Active Parks Fun and Fitness As the sole university in the State, the University of Tasmania and wellbeing initiatives, healthy lifestyle promotions and has a responsibility to actively contribute to the economic, supports undergraduate units and post-graduate research. cultural and social environment in Tasmania. Active Tasmania provides a number of community Through the Active Tasmania health-promotion initiative, engagement, leadership, research and teaching outcomes the University seeks to promote its social mission through for the University and the communities in which it serves. partnering with others to improve the health and wellbeing Active Tasmania enjoys support from across the faculties and of communities through a capacity building process. Based regional jurisdictions of the University, with staff and students on the success of the original project, Active Launceston from a variety of disciplines providing specialised input. (2008), and utilising the resources and knowledge base of the University, Active Tasmania provides consultancies, resources, Active Tasmania is actively seeking new community and event and project management for organisations and partnerships and is keen to talk to interested Local communities. Active Tasmania currently delivers cross- Government Authorities across the State. Please contact sectional community-wide programs, workplace health [email protected] to set up a time for a meeting.

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June 2015 LGAT News 25 health and wellbeing Back pain: Don’t take it lying down! Lower back pain may be a burden but workers are reluctant Professor Chris Maher, Director of the University of Sydney to raise the flag, a recent report shows. Medical School Musculoskeletal Division, says one of the Despite Australians being infamous for ‘taking a sickie’, new most important things that employers/managers can do to research shows most are reluctant to take action if they help workers with back pain is to become educated about injure themselves – especially when it comes to back pain. the condition. The Konekt Market Report, the largest of its kind in While prevention is all very well, once the back pain is there Australia, analysed more than 113,000 cases of workers it needs to be dealt with. “There are several steps people compensation and non-compensable cases over a six-year can take to help themselves get better,” Prof Maher says. period. It found that while lower back pain is the second- “The contemporary approach is don’t go to bed. Rather, try greatest contributor of disability in Australia, employees to stay physically active – you don’t need an x-ray and you either take their time reporting injuries, or ignore them should try to remain at work.” until they become debilitating. Musculoskeletal injuries Tips for helping address back pain: represented the largest workplace injury category, with back injuries accounting for almost one third. And in • Speak with your doctor or physio if the pain is not settling the compensable environment, ‘back strain’ injuries with simple self-care measures; represented almost one in five serious injury claims over • During an episode, limit bed rest and try to stay active at the last decade. home or work; • Use your back wisely; Around three million Australians (14% of the population) • Adopt a healthy lifestyle; suffer from low back pain, and according to the Australian • Be physically active; avoid prolonged sitting; Institute of Health and Welfare, in 2008­–2009, $1.18 billion • Don’t smoke; moderate alcohol intake; and was spent on back problems. A cost-of-illness study carried • Make time to enjoy life, spending time with family or friends. out in Australia estimated the indirect costs associated with low back pain to be $8.15 billion due to loss of earnings and To access the Konekt Market Report, visit www.konekt.com.au. productivity1. 1 Walker B, Muller R, and Grant W, Low back pain in Australian adults: the economic “Last financial year saw an increase in the number of burden. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health, 2003. 15(2): p. 79–87. referrals being made relating to back injuries,” says Nicholas Ward, Product Manager with Konekt. “While the total number of claims is decreasing and the average time lost associated with back strain injuries halved between 2000 and 2001, and 2010 and 2011, alarmingly we noticed an increase in the average delay from when an injury occurs to when it is reported and then referred for support and return to work services.” The report also showed that males aged between 30 and 39 had the highest incidence of back injuries and were more likely to report them (65%). Back injury claims made by women to employers/healthcare professionals rose from 33% to 39% over the past decade.

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2626 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 environment Council Support Needed to Combat Myrtle Rust Tasmania’s councils have a key role in responding to a major environmental threat: the arrival in Tasmania of myrtle rust disease. The effort to rid Tasmania of myrtle rust is being led by movement and use of both Lophomyrtus and Chilean guava Biosecurity Tasmania and has been underway since the disease apply to councils in the same way as they do to commercial was first detected in the nurseries and to residents. North West of the State in Not only can the plants late February. not be displayed for sale or sold but they may not be Since then, the Myrtle Rust supplied for any purpose. Response has targeted The Order is in place to stop about 600 premises for potential further spread of investigation. By early May, the disease. This means infected plants had been that neither Lophomyrtus, treated and removed from nor Chilean guava may be about 70 properties across taken from council nurseries the State. to be used in plantings in The good news is that parks or reserves. Options myrtle rust detections for councils are to continue have been confined to to hold these plants two introduced species in and isolate them for the commercial or residential duration of the Control premises and has not Order, or give them up for been detected in native disposal by Biosecurity staff. species, or in the bush. If Councils are also asked to it stays that way, then the inspect their nurseries for difficult task of eradicating signs of myrtle rust - bright the disease from Tasmania yellow pustules on leaves, may yet be possible. If the stems or buds. Older disease gets away, as it has infections will turn a brown in NSW and QLD, then it to grey colour. If detected, may spread throughout the or if you are in doubt, call large family of myrtaceous the Myrtle Rust Hotline. plants, including eucalypts, teatrees, paperbarks, The advent of winter will willow myrtle and bottle mitigate against both brush. This could have disease reproduction a devastating impact on and spread. During cold the forestry and nursery The Chilean guava, Ugnimolinae is months, any plants in industries, and on the one of the species in Tasmania to have been external settings which may environment. affected by myrtle rust have missed inspection by the response can be One of the two species expected to be sub- on which myrtle rust has been detected in Tasmania is the clinical, making detection of the disease difficult. Once the common ornamental and hedging plant, Lophomyrtus – with warmer weather returns in October, the experienced eyes of cultivars known as Black Stallion, Red Dragon, Krinkly and horticultural and maintenance staff will be a valuable asset Rainbow’s End. The other is Chilean guava, Ugnimolinae, which for the surveillance task. Early signs of infection can be purple is sometimes cultivated for its fruit known as Tazzieberry™. flecks, or purple leafy spots, followed by the classical yellow For councils, there are clear messages from the Myrtle Rust pustules and lesions. Response. The first is that Control Order restrictions on the To report a suspected outbreak, call the Myrtle Rust Hotline on 6165 3785. Further information and resources on myrtle rust are available at www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/myrtlerust.

June 2015 LGAT News 27 environment Garage Sale Trail Wins 2014 Banksia Sustainability Award

Darryl Nichols, Co-founder of the Garage Sale Trail shares the Banksia Award with the mayors of participating Tasmanian councils in the 2014 Garage Sale Trail

National sustainability and community event, the Garage Sale Over 140 local governments around the country, including Trail has won a prestigious 2014 Banksia Sustainability Award, 20 Tasmanian councils, participated in the 2014 Garage Sale timely recognition of the success of the event that took place Trail and participation in Tasmania was the highest per capita across Australia on Saturday, 25 October 2014. of anywhere in the country. Registrations increased 60% on 2013 to a total of 333 registered garage sales across the State, Now in its 26th year, the Banksia Foundation provides a representing 95,924 items listed for reuse, at an approximate positive platform to showcase the best in Australian invention, value of $343,751. innovation and ingenuity in the all-important sustainability space. The Garage Sale Trail won the Leadership in Citizenship The average seller made $305 via the day and said they and Communities Award category that recognises a group planned to spend 65% of their earnings locally. Best of all, or individual that has demonstrated strong, local capacity, the average Tasmanian participant made 13 new neighbourly enhancing the long-term social, economic and environmental connections via the day. There were also more community status of their community. groups participating in Tasmania than anywhere else, using the Garage Sale Trail as a fundraising platform. The 2014 Garage Sale Trail attracted approximately 400,000 participants nationally, who enjoyed one big day of Co-founder, Darryl Nichols said, “This year, we hope Tasmania simultaneous garage sales, buying and selling over six million will have 100% council participation, making it the first State reused goods with a combined value of over $6 million in Australia to achieve that.” dollars. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, 24 October. For details, visit http://getinvolved.garagesaletrail.com.au.

28 LGAT News June 2015 SPORTS FIELDS

Australia’s most respected Synthetic Sports Field Company AJ Berry Pty Ltd Pakana employees have gained Mobile: 0417 946 102 Email: [email protected] new skills and confidence working Websites: www.berrybowlingsystems.com.au in the land management sector www.berrysportsurfaces.com.au Pakana Services Delivering Quality Land Management Services Innovative Tasmanian Aboriginal enterprise, Pakana Services has celebrated its first year as an independent social enterprise supporting the Tasmanian Aboriginal community.

Pakana Services is a social enterprise focused on supporting Manager, John Easton oversees the team of eight part- the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. The enterprise time Aboriginal workers to undertake these activities and has grown from an idea shared between the Aboriginal in doing so, builds the skills, capacity and confidence of community, NRM South and supportive partners to become the workers, which provides a strong pathway for future an independent enterprise in 2014. employment in the land management sector. Pakana Services offers land management services including “Our focus is on delivering high quality land management tree planting, fencing, weed management, brush cutting services and returning the skills and the benefits back to and garden maintenance to organisations such as councils, the Aboriginal community,” Mr Easton said. “The vision for government business enterprises and properties where Pakana Services is that it will continue to grow so we can land management has become a particular challenge. The put more people on and bring further social and economic Pakana ethos is focused on its people and the effective benefits to this part of the Tasmanian community.” delivery of quality land management services. For more information, visit www.nrmsouth.org.au/ While the first anniversary was a milestone for the business, conservation-corridors-connect-community-north-bruny- more importantly, it recognises these achievements of the Aboriginal team members, their contribution to the biodiversity-fund-project. Aboriginal community and management of Tasmania’s land.

June 2015 LGAT News 29 environment Burn Brighter this Winter Using a wood heater correctly, significantly reduces wood targeting wood heater users, and shows how to light and smoke levels but an incorrectly used wood heater means operate a wood heater to reduce smoke levels. an excessively smoky chimney, which can be a nuisance to There is also information to assist council staff involved with neighbours and can also cause adverse health impacts. monitoring and reducing wood smoke emissions including: Because the Tasmanian winter can be quite lengthy, the • Real-time air quality data; period in which excessively smoky wood heaters operate can • Information about the Australian wood heater standards; last for months, creating a long period of risk for those who • Responding to smoky wood heater complaints; and are susceptible to respiratory and cardio vascular illness. The • Information about the harmful substances in wood smoke. solution for reducing this risk is to ensure that owners of wood heaters know how to operate them properly. In May, the EPA also conducted workshops around the State for environmental health officers to assist them in managing The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Division of the nuisance complaints under the Environmental Management Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and and Pollution Control Act 1994, including handling complaints Environment is working with councils and the community about wood smoke. The EPA is continuing to improve and to reduce smoke levels generated from household wood expand the website information and its statewide training heaters. Through their Burn Brighter this Winter program, they program to support Local Government. have produced a range of web-based information which Local Government staff can download and pass on to householders. Visit www.epa.tas.gov.au and go to the menu item ‘Air’ to The information includes factsheets and a video specifically access the program resources.

Analytical Services Contact us for all of your analytical needs including Tasmania • Chemical analysis of water and soil • Algal counting and identification 18 St Johns Avenue • Chemical testing of soil for remediation New Town 7008 and waste classification Phone: 6165 3300 Fax: 6230 7001 Email: [email protected] • Nutrients and general water chemistry testing

3030 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 environment

Curbing Unwanted Cats

Every year, thousands of cats and kittens are euthanised in shelters and pounds across Australia, or swell the ranks of the feral cat population after being dumped or abandoned. This is a problem that can partly be addressed by one simple action - desexing your cat. If you are not a registered cat breeder, then your cat should be desexed. This will help reduce the number of unwanted cats in our community and has benefits for both you and your cat, as well as your local environment. Desexed cats generally live longer, healthier lives and are less likely to roam and be injured, or become a nuisance to others in your neighbourhood. While desexing comes at a cost, there is help at hand. A range of subsidised programs have been run by the RSPCA, Hobart Cat Centre, and local vets and councils in Tasmania to provide assistance with the cost of desexing cats. Another source of support is the National Desexing Network (NDN) which works with vet clinics around Australia to offer discounted desexing to encourage pet owners to desex their cats (and MarkMedia dogs). They also organise National Desexing Month in July each year which offers all pet owners discounts on the cost of getting their pets desexed. Prices and participating vets can 1 Sunderland Street, be viewed on the NDN website www.ndn.org.au. Moonah TASMANIA 7009 Desexing is also one of five actions identified in a new booklet produced by Biosecurity Tasmania that promotes P: 03 6228 4441 responsible cat ownership. Called Cats and Wildlife: How You E: [email protected] Can Protect Both, the booklet has been produced to highlight how cat owners can better care for the health and welfare of both pet cats and Tasmania’s native wildlife. The booklet is available from DPIPWE’s Invasive Species Branch website at “Creating design and print www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/invasivespecies. Cat management is a complex problem but positive things that is intelligent, influential can be achieved by government, industry and community working together. Responsible cat ownership is just and inspirational.” one important part of the solution to more effective cat management in Tasmania.

June 2015 LGAT News 31 business and finance Risk Management: a Governance Perspective The major risk for most organisations is that they could fail No organisation operates in a risk-free environment, and to achieve their objectives and thereby lose the trust of risk management does not create such an environment. their clients or stakeholders. Risk is defined as the effect of Rather, organisations operate in environments filled with uncertainty on objectives and for most organisations, not uncertainty, which require proactive action to manage its achieving the best outcomes – by being deficient in some risks to survive! way, getting something wrong, or missing opportunities – To understand risks within an organisation, it is also may ultimately undermine its ability to attract and sustain important to understand the organisation’s risk appetite, clients, revenue, and stakeholders. or the value that the organisation is willing to place at Risk management is part of good governance and is ‘risk’. In other words, the risk tolerance of the organisation. essentially a systematic approach to: Responsibility for determining risk appetite belongs to the boards/councils, or their delegates and defining risk • Understanding the organisation and its context; appetite ensures that the organisation: • Identifying organisational risks; • Analysing organisational risks (measure the severity of • Makes informed business decisions; the risks); • Focuses on minimising the risks that exceed the defined • Evaluating the organisational risks (identify which risks risk appetite; need treatment in a prioritised order); and • Has a culture which is highly aware of risk; and • Treating the organisational risks by: • Has a balance between ‘daring’ and ‘prudence’. °° Avoiding the risk by deciding not to start or to Once the organisation’s risk appetite level has been continue with the activity that gives rise to risk; reached, then risk management controls needs to be °° Taking or increasing the risk in order to pursue an implemented to bring the risk back to within an acceptable opportunity; level. °° Removing the risk source; The organisation then needs to adjust its risk appetite as °° Changing the likelihood of the risk occurring; the business matures over time and/or due to changing °° Changing the consequence of the risk; economic or environmental conditions. This risk appetite °° Sharing the risk with another party or parties; and must be within the risk capacity limits of the organisation ­– °° Retaining the risk by informed decision. the maximum amount, or limit of risk that the organisation The risk management process requires communication is willing to carry. and consultation with internal and external stakeholders In some cases, the organisation needs to adjust its risk and requires continual monitoring and review. An appetite to meet new laws or legislation. For example, the important part of the model Work Health risk management and Safety Act which process is to establish came into effect processes and systems on 1 January 2013; integrated with prescribed the level existing management of risk appetite that systems, so that must be met in relation uncertainty and to work health and change are managed safety, meaning that effectively. the organisation has There are many no leeway in setting forms of risk for the risk appetite level. an organisation This means that the including operational, organisation must have financial, information the resources in place technology, business to meet this legislative risk, insurance, requirement. compliance risk, Risk management is part of good governance practices. All capital, credit and so on. Risk management facilitates organisations need to understand their risks, have systems management’s ability to effectively manage the and processes in place to report and record their risks, and organisation’s risk and to create sustainable value and systems and process in place to review their risk appetite as communicate the value to its stakeholders. economic and environmental regimes change over time. For details about a simple and effective system to help your Council identify and manage risk, contact RiskComply on (03) 6239 3109, or email [email protected].

3232 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 business and finance Working as a Sector to Achieve Cheaper Energy Costs KATE HISCOCK, SENIOR POLICY OFFICER Local Government Association of Tasmania The Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) would like to congratulate its council members on working together to achieve cheaper energy costs for public lighting. During 2014, for the first time, the retail energy market for the unmetered component of public lighting, or streetlights, in Tasmania, became competitive. LGAT coordinated a competitive consultancy to go to the market for the retail energy supply for unmetered public lighting for all councils in Tasmania, with the exception of King and Flinders Island. Additionally, LGAT procured legal advice to review contract terms and conditions. As it was the first time the process had been undertaken in Tasmania, the process took a long time, raised many new issues and was a learning experience for all involved. The end result, however, was worth it. With energy costs having a major impact on council budgets each year, achieving significant savings for councils on their public lighting energy bills was a real win for the sector. LGAT would like to thank our consultants - Goanna Energy Consulting and Simmons Wolfhagen for their services and we look forward to identifying future areas where we can support a sectoral approach to achieve savings for our member councils.

              

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June 2015 LGAT News 33 business and finance Wayne Davy to Oversee Super Merger In November 2015, Quadrant Super will merge with Tasplan Super, led by Quadrant Super CEO, Wayne Davy, who took over as CEO of Tasplan Super in March. Mr Davy will oversee both organisations as they move towards becoming one fund. Reflecting on his selection as Tasplan’s new CEO, Wayne Davy said, “I am honoured and excited to have been chosen to lead this iconic Tasmanian firm. Like Quadrant, Tasplan is a strong player in the Tasmanian market, giving us a rock solid position to build from.” Wayne Davy began his career as a Barrister and Solicitor in Tasmania and in the UK. In 1997, he joined Quadrant Super as the new Board’s first employee. He invigorated Quadrant’s operation and management, recruiting over 30 staff and growing the membership more than 1,000%. Capitalising on legislative changes, he added an accumulation fund to Quadrant’s existing defined benefit offering. In 2005, he migrated Quadrant to a public offer fund. Though it wasn’t yet the norm for an industry fund, in 2002, Mr Davy also founded a separate financial services company to provide personal financial advice for members. Mr Davy has always been keen to hone his skills, recently completing his Executive MBA through the Melbourne Business School, a program that took him to the US, Germany and China. “Our Tasmanian fund is perfectly poised to develop on a national scale,” he said. “Establishing Tasplan’s national significance is a challenge I accept with confidence and determination. I am passionately committed to placing our members at the absolute centre of everything we do.”

Newly appointed Tasplan CEO, Mr Wayne Davy

3434 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 roads and infrastructure Marina Extensionfor Triabunna and New Boat Ramp The Triabunna Marina extension and new boat ramp were The Triabunna Marina development has been planned in four officially opened by The Hon. Rene Hidding MP, Minister for stages. Stages 1 and 2 involved an extension of the marina Infrastructure, on 28 March, as part of the Seafest 2015 festival. berths and construction of the new all tide, four-lane, public boat ramp. There were 27 marina berths as part of Stage 1, Four years ago, Glamorgan Spring Bay Council decided that and Stage 2 has seen the construction of an additional 22 it could no longer wait for major private investors to invest in recreational berths, plus the capacity for an additional two the development of the Triabunna region and that something berths for visitors and seven commercial berths. had to be done. With the slowing down of the local economy and the subsequent collapse of the forestry industry, Council The construction of the new all tide, four-lane public boat ramp took affirmative action to help restore confidence in the area was funded by MAST and is to be managed and maintained and stimulate economic growth by developing the Triabunna by Council. Council has constructed the new vehicle parking Marina. facility at the boat ramp. The new Triabunna boat ramp is the second largest in Tasmania and offers the largest parking Acting Mayor, Clr Cheryl Arnol said Council has a vision for facilities of any boat ramp in the State. This will play a very Triabunna as the boating hub of the East Coast for both important part in the reinvention of Triabunna into a boating commercial and recreational marine activities, and the and marine activity mecca. Triabunna Marina development is a vital part of achieving this vision. “The development caters for both increased commercial The future stages of the development will involve further and recreational boating activity, and the aim is to bring other marina extensions and a private developer plans to build marine related industries and businesses to the area.” boatel apartments within one to two years. Minister Hidding acknowledged the former Mayor of Glamorgan Spring Bay Council’s vision to extend the Glamorgan Spring Bay Council, Clr Bertrand Cadart, the General Triabunna Marina is set to boost the local economy Manager, David Metcalf and the previous Council members for their vision in taking on this development to stimulate economic growth in the township of Triabunna.

June 2015 LGAT News 35 roads and infrastructure Timely Bridge Upgrades Save Lives process of their non compliant An example of a bridge barrier due for upgrade works barriers, Dorset Council’s Golconda Road Bridge over the Brid River was identified as one of the first high-risk barriers to be upgraded, and additional posts and an upgraded guardrail were provided. Not long after the upgrade was completed in 2014, an accident occurred on the bridge and the new barrier was impacted heavily. The errant vehicle was redirected along the bridge and no one was seriously hurt. Ben Hart, Senior Bridge Engineer at Pitt & Sherry said it is considered likely that if the upgraded barrier had not been installed, the vehicle would have broken through the barrier and fallen into the creek below, with serious injury or death to the occupant. “By following a relatively low-cost and risk- managed approach to bridge Australia has about 800 road authorities, many of which are barrier management, Dorset Council has already yielded a aware of non-compliant bridge barriers under their control. positive and sustainable outcome,” Mr Hart said. However, due to limited resources and budgets, these road Dorset’s bridge inspection programme identified 55 bridge authorities are often unsure on how, or when to act on this barriers across a network of 120 bridges that were non- issue. compliant. Pitt & Sherry was able to determine which barriers Timely action may well have been a life saver for Dorset posed the highest risk, which led to four structures being Council after the it engaged engineering consultancy Pitt upgraded. Due to the success of last year’s barrier upgrade & Sherry to undertake an assessment of the bridge barriers programme, Council is currently implementing another round under its control. Following a comprehensive risk assessment of targeted barrier upgrade works this financial year.

32 Gleadow Street Invermay (03) 6336 9666 19 Strahan Street Burnie (03) 6440 9999 Contact Tony Blyde 0417 399 320

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3636 LGATLGAT NewsNews JuneJune 20152015 roads and infrastructure

Hobart Launceston Melbourne

Sydney Asset Management Christchurch Systems Review for ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS PROJECT MANAGERS Local Government SEMF Pty Ltd The ARRB Group, which provides trusted advice, technical expertise and solutions www.semf.com.au to transport and road agencies across the world, has released a national report on 1300 357 363 Asset Management Systems to assist Local Governments with making informed [email protected] decisions. 2/162 Macquarie Street The review provides an overview of the available systems, their base functionality Hobart, 7000 and feature offerings in relation to international best practice to assist Local 70 York Street, Governments in assessing their needs against the features and functions provided. Launceston, 7250 Peter Damen, ARRB’s General Manager – Research and Consulting, explained, “ARRB received an influx of requests from its members seeking advice on the use and implementation of road and infrastructure asset management systems, and associated decision support tools. In response to this identified need, a decision was made by ARRB to commission an independent and comparative technical assessment of Asset Management Systems in Australia.” Local Governments face a constant battle to ensure they are making the best use of available systems and funding to ensure that value for money is delivered to the community – the ultimate goal from an asset service delivery perspective. The challenge for Local Governments in selecting the most appropriate asset management system for road infrastructure is that arguably there is too much choice and availability. It is anticipated that the outcomes of the technical review and assessment will: • Assist Local Government to better identify which system, or systems, may be capable of meeting their requirements for asset management, in circumstances where a systems-related solution is sought; • Assist industry in understanding market needs and how they might target or develop their offerings; and • Provide evidence of the level of asset management system functionality and support sought in the Australian marketplace. The link to the report is available at www.arrb.com.au/Asset-Management-Systems-Review.aspx.

June 2015 LGAT News 37 38 LGAT News June 2015

16D15_to print.indd 1 22/05/2015 12:46 pm JOHNSTONE McGEE & GANDY incorporating Dale P Luck & Associates Celebrating 50 years in business in 2010 JMG is Tasmania’s longest established totally Tasmanian owned multi-discipline Engineering and Planning practice; also this year Dale P. Luck & Associates has joined “Creating value for our clients forces with JMG at our new Launceston office to expand our capacity and and opportunity for our people” capabilities. 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Luck feasibility & Associates studies, design has joined “Your Vision is Our Mission” forces with JMG at our new Launceston office Environmentand Audits to expand Impact our Assessment capacity and and and documentation, pursuing approvals, through to the administration and Eand“Creating HydraulicRiskn gopportunity Managementine valueInfrastructureer forforin our ourg people”clients P DevelopmentHealthlann andin Agedg Planning Care Planningand E nvironmental Sustainabilitycapabilities.managementforces with JMG of contracts. at our new Launceston office approvalsNatural to Resourceexpand our Management capacity and   and CommercialMaintenanceGreen opportunity Star & and ManagementNABERS for Retail our people” BuildingsAccreditation capabilities. StrategicSubmissionsPlanning Appealsand Land Use Planning  EnvironmentCommunity and Management stakeholder System  SustainableBusiness Continuity Developments Management  InfrastructureMaster Planning Planning E Roadsngin ande eBridgesring P Statutorylanni andng Legal Planning E Environmentandconsultationnv Auditsiron mImpacten Assessmenttal and E RiskHospitalng Managementin e& Healtherin Care g P HealthTownlan Planningn andin Agedg Care Planning Environmental  Mining  CommercialHydraulic Infrastructure and Retail Buildings  StrategicDevelopment and LandPlanning Use and Planning  approvalsNaturalSiteEnvironment Assessment Resource Impact and Management Assessments Remediation  Education & Research  Community Consultation and  MaintenanceGreen Star & ManagementNABERS Accreditation  SubmissionsPlanning Appeals  RoadsCommercial and Bridges and Retail Buildings  StatutoryStrategic and LandLegal UsePlanning Planning  EnvironmentCommunityOverview and ManagementImpactManagement stakeholder Assessment Systems System and  SustainableBusinessIndustry Continuity Developments Management  InfrastructureMasterMediation Planning Planning  HydraulicRoads and Infrastructure Bridges  DevelopmentStatutory and PlanningLegal Planning and  approvalsEnvironmentandconsultationSustainabilityCertified Audits EMS Impact Auditing Assessment (ISO 14001) and  RiskHospitalMining Management & Health Care  HealthTown Planning and Aged Care Planning  MaintenanceHydraulic Infrastructure Management SubmissionsDevelopment Planning and  EnvironmentapprovalsNaturalSiteEnvironmental Assessment Resource Management Management and Management Remediation System Plans  GreenEducationSports Star & & Research NABERS Accreditation  PlanningCommunity Appeals Consultation and   SustainableMaintenance Developments Management  InfrastructureSubmissions Planning  andEnvironmentCommunityOverviewConstruction Audits and ManagementEMP’s stakeholder System Sports  RiskSustainableBusinessIndustryFacilities Management Continuity Developments Management  HealthInfrastructureMasterMediation andPlanning Aged Planning Care Planning  Stormwater and Waste Management  NaturalandconsultationSustainability Audits Resource Management  HospitalMining & Health Care  Town Planning  GreenRisk Management Star & NABERS Accreditation  PlanningHealth and Appeals Aged Care Planning  CommunityNaturalSiteWaste Assessment Water Resource and Design stakeholderand Management and Remediation Reports  EducationSports & Research  Community Consultation and  BusinessGreen Star Continuity & NABERS Management Accreditation  MasterPlanning Planning Appeals  consultationCommunityOverviewClimate Change and Actionstakeholder Plans  IndustryFacilitiesFor further information visit www.jmg.net.au Mediation or phone Ian Johnston on (03) 6231 2555  HospitalBusiness & Continuity Health Care Management  TownMaster Planning Planning  SiteconsultationSustainabilityGreenhouse Assessment Gas andCompliance Remediation  Mining  Contaminated Site Assessments Facilities EducationHospital & &Health Research Care CommunityTown Planning Consultation and  OverviewSite Assessment and Remediation  EducationSports & Research  Community Consultation and IndustryFor further information visit www.jmg.net.auMediation or phone Ian Johnston SustainabilityOverviewNoise, Air, on Water (03) Quality 6231 Management 2555  MiningIndustryFacilities Mediation  SustainabilityCommunity and Stakeholder  SportsMining Consultation  FacilitiesSports For further information visit www.jmg.net.au or phone Ian Johnston on (03) 6231 2555 Facilities For further information visit www.jmg.net.au or phone Ian Johnston on (03) 6231 2555 For further information visit www.jmg.net.au or phone Ian Johnston on (03) 6231 2555 For further information visit www.jmg.net.au or phone Ian Johnston on (03)June 2015 LGAT 6231 News 39 2555 For Advertising Bookings contact Frank Johnstone Independent Sales Agent Mobile: 0408 253 241 Email: [email protected] Fax: 03 6228 9440 Northern Office: 87 Westbury Rd, Launceston TAS 7250 Southern Office: 1 Sunderland St, Moonah TAS 7009 Reaching Tasmania’s decision-makers since 2001

Advertiser’s index ABS Sports Fields Pty Ltd ...... 29 LGAT Annual Conference ...... 17 Analytical Services Tasmania ...... 30 MarkMedia ...... 31 Aust Institute of Company Directors ...... 18 Portacat Industries ...... 38 Andrew Walter Constructions ...... 35 Risk Comply ...... 33 BIS Industries ...... Inside Front Cover SEMF ...... 37 Brighton Council ...... 34 SRA Logistics ...... 16 Case Contruction ...... 24 Staples ...... 26 Christie Park Safe ...... 29 St Lukes ...... 25 Clennetts Mitre 10 ...... 31 Tasmanian Mountain Waters ...... 6 Country Club Tasmania ...... 8 Tasplan Super ...... Back Cover Goanna Energy ...... 33 Tenderlink ...... 12 HMB Engineering ...... 36 Travel Lodge Hobart Airpoirt ...... 22 Johnstone McGee & Gandy ...... 39 Tyres4u ...... 19 J Wright Technologies ...... 10 WorkSafe Tasmania ...... Inside Back Cover

40 LGAT News June 2015 WORKSAFE TASMANIA AWARDS 2015 20 Years... • Showcasing achievements in safety excellence and innovation since 1996 • Become a sponsor • Celebrate the 2015 winners at the Awards Presentation Dinner at Blundstone Arena on 24 October 2015 15 Winners… • NEW online entry website • View and share others’ entries online • NEW categories – including a micro and small business category • MORE chances to be recognised and win prizes for your entry

WorkSafe recognises and congratulates all the councils for their entries since 1996: Burnie City Council – 2008, 2013 Central Coast Council – 1996, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2013 Devonport City Council – 2008, 2013, 2014 Glenorchy City Council – 2000, 2002, 2006, 2008 Hobart City Council – 2002, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013 – 2004, 2005 Launceston City Council– 2003, 2004, 2010 Northern Midlands Council – 2001, 2002

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