RURAL CITY NEWS AUTUMN 2016 FOR THE LATEST COUNCIL UPDATES VISIT WWW.SWANHILL.VIC.GOV.AU

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2016/17 COUNCIL’S DRAFT BUDGET BEVERFORD Street shopping area $75,000 Community Plan implementation Street beautification – Swan Hill $9,800 North shopping area $75,000 BOUNDARY BEND Community Plan implementation Community Plan implementation $29,000 $10,500 OUT FOR COMMENT ULTIMA LAKE BOGA Community Plan implementation Catalina Park playground and $30,700 café extensions $427,000 Lake Boga Caravan Park WEMEN improvements $20,000 Community Plan implementation Community Plan implementation $5,000 $34,415 WOORINEN Community Plan implementation Community Plan implementation $40,525 $55,995 OTHER HIGHLIGHTS DISTRICT Sealed road reconstruction, TAKING SHELTER: Two more bus shelters will be Community Plan implementation resealing and shoulders $3.2 installed around Swan Hill, making six in total. $31,500 million* Roads to Recovery funded road Community Plan implementation works $3.3 million $5,000 Unsealed road gravel resheets $1.7 million* BEAUTIFYING BROMELY ROAD: Footpaths major repairs and Projects from the Bromley Road Masterplan. Robinvale town levee – design and construction $600,000* renewal $160,000 Contribution to Robinvale Family Bicycle paths construction Centre $200,000 $60,000* Bromley Road beautification Library collection purchases BUDGET AT A GLANCE $200,000* Total revenue: $56 million $120,000 Revenue raised from general rates: $22.6 million Community Plan implementation Economic Development Capital works and assets: $15.9 million $36,000 initiatives $85,000* DRAIN AWAY: McCallum Street CBD drainage War memorial and interpretive upgrades from NAB to railway tracks. L2P Learner Driver Program walks $75,000 Swan Hill and Robinvale Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Plans will be funded to $422,000 positive capital works program,” Cr SWAN HILL $61,450* 2016/17 draft budget is out now for for towns including Robinvale, McPhee said. Riverfront Masterplan Recreation and sporting reserves public comment. The draft budget Manangatang, Nyah, Lake Boga, “However despite these implementation $1.1 million* masterplan $60,000* includes a total of $8.5 million for Ultima, Boundary Bend and Woorinen. challenges, Council’s commitment Swan Hill CBD drainage upgrade Upgrade irrigation systems roads and roads maintenance, up The budget incorporates savings to maintaining services through Stage 2 $808,000 $50,000 more than 3 per cent compared gained through a number of efficiency and strong financial Riverwalk enhancement Stage 2 Playground equipment renewal to 2015/16. This is due to a $0.4 measures, including the conversion of management has resulted in a $341,500* $48,125 million increase in Federal Roads to street lighting to LED lighting saving responsible budget that includes Riverwalk sculpture park Stage 3 Recovery funding and an additional an additional $15,000 this year. It is some good community projects.” $350,000* Additional street lighting $31,900 8 per cent in Council funding. estimated that during the next 20 Copies of the draft budget are Riverfront Masterplan land Disabled kerb crossings in Swan The draft includes a 2.5 per cent years the conversion program will save available from www.swanhill.vic.gov. Hill and Robinvale $30,000 average rate rise, which is consistent $64,000 per year in electricity and au and Council offices in Swan Hill purchases $660,000* Bus shelters $20,000 with the State Government’s rate operation, maintenance and repair and Robinvale. Ken Harrison Sporting Complex capping level, and a moderate 1.7 costs. The Heartbeat of the Murray is A community consultation session soccer ground lighting $80,000* Seed funding for regional event per cent rise for kerbside rubbish budgeted to improve the bottom line was recently held in Robinvale to Alan Garden netball courts $15,000 collection charges – in line with the of the Pioneer Settlement by $76,000 further explain the draft budget, shelters $80,000* * Indicates total project cost is December 2015 Consumer Price per year, while the installation of solar and a Swan Hill consultation Street beautification – Brown conditional on external funding Index. There will be no increase in panels at Council offices is expected session is scheduled for Monday, the charge for a 240-litre green waste to save $20,000 per year. 16 May. Community members are bin. Mayor Les McPhee welcomed the also encouraged to provide written While the rate rise is capped at draft budget and said core Council feedback to Council. 2.5 per cent, as all properties will be services had been maintained Written submissions to the draft revalued this year, the actual change despite the 2.5 per cent rate capping, budget close on Monday, 6 June for individual property owners will vary. introduced by the State Government at 4pm. A Special Council Meeting The budget includes a total of this year. to receive and hear submissions $15.9 million in capital works, while “With the introduction of rate will be held on Tuesday, 14 June. A an extra $50,000 has been allocated capping, combined with ongoing meeting to amend or adopt the draft for building maintenance across the concerns of cost shifting, there was budget will then be held on Tuesday, municipality. There is also $15,000 in always going to be some challenges 21 June. seed funding to attract a new regional to ensure Council was able to strike a Further details regarding the event to the municipality. good balance in this budget, including Special Council Meetings will be ROADS REVAMPED: $3.2 million* to be spent on sealed road Works approved through Community maintaining core services and a advertised closer to meeting dates. reconstruction, resealing and shoulders around the municipality.

Find Council on INSIDE Facebook >> LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS >> COMMUNITY PLANNING >> PENTAL ISLAND ROAD UPGRADE >> CELEBRATING DIVERSITY 2 SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Council is pleased to be able to works, $8.5 million in roads and busy getting to know staff and to consider standing for Council. deliver a responsible draft budget roads maintenance and some Council as well as our communities As a Councillor you have an that ensures core Council services positive community projects. You across the municipality. John is opportunity to not only represent are maintained and delivered to can read a summary of this year’s keen to continue to visit and meet the community, but to provide input our residents and ratepayers right budget highlights on the front of this people throughout the region and into the future direction of the Swan across the municipality. newsletter. become part of the community. I’d Hill municipality. As mentioned in this edition of With the draft budget now out for also like to take this opportunity to General information about the the community newsletter, Council public comment, I encourage our thank Ian Couper who acted in the Local Government elections, has been able to strike a good residents and ratepayers to provide role of Chief Executive Officer from including an election timetable balance in the budget despite some their written feedback by 6 June, November while the recruitment is included in this edition of the significant challenges. This includes and attend the Special Council process was underway and until community newsletter. You can the introduction of rate capping and Meeting on 14 June. John’s arrival in March. also visit the Victorian Electoral ongoing concerns of cost shifting I’d like to welcome Council’s Chief Finally, as you may already know, Commission’s website (vec.vic.gov. CR LES MCPHEE from the state to Local Government. Executive Officer John McLinden Local Government elections will au) which provides more information Mayor In addition to continuing to who started in the role in late March. be held later this year in October. about nominating as a candidate, 0427 319 394 deliver core services, the budget Although he has only been here a If you’re a resident of Swan Hill including being eligible to stand for [email protected] includes $15.9 million in capital short while, John’s already been Rural City Council, I encourage you election. A WORD FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

Firstly, I would like to express a warm welcome to I would like to start by congratulating the Swan Hill RSL for Council’s recently appointed CEO Mr John McLinden. once again providing us with such a touching and stirring John has hit the ground running and has already made ANZAC Day service. a positive impact on the organisation. I look forward to ANZAC Day continues to be an important commemoration, working closely with John to continue to advance and allowing us to remember those who sacrificed so much improve our region. and enabling us to have the freedoms we enjoy today – It’s also been fantastic to hear of the continued success something as a nation we should never forget. of the Heartbeat of the Murray laser light show. It proved What’s more, it was great to see all the young people to be a huge Easter and school holiday attraction and involved in ANZAC Day and to see the children paying their I encourage anyone who hasn’t seen this incredible respects. By having our young people involved in ANZAC production to do so. Day we are ensuring that this important tradition will carry With this success, and the recent completion of a on for generations to come. Central Ward number of major projects and continued upgrades to Central Ward I would also like to take this opportunity to advise the CR MICHAEL ADAMSON the Swan Hill Riverfront, it’s really great to see the level CR JESSIE KILEY community that I will be taking a short leave of absence 0400 143 100 of development and growth taking place in our region. It 0417 755 414 from my Councillor duties as my husband and I have gives me a real sense of pride to see the direction that the recently become parents to a beautiful baby boy. Thank [email protected] [email protected] municipality is travelling in and eager to see what else we you to everyone for their support and well wishes. can accomplish.

The Swan Hill region is already home to some great events, This time of year is a great time for visitors and already we including Harmony Day, the Australian Day Breakfast, have seen strong visitation to the region. This is evident from Market Day, Swan Hill Show, the Food and Wine Festival the number of people attending the Heartbeat of the Murray as well as a number of sporting days and weekends, just laser light show. If you haven’t seen it yet make a booking to name a few. soon and get yourself down to the Pioneer Settlement to see I’m pleased to be involved in the planning stages of it. It truly is spectacular. another event that is sure to be a major highlight for 2016. The Food and Wine Festival and Harmony Day are two In November Swan Hill’s motor sporting clubs will come other events that are highlights of autumn in Swan Hill. together and host a Festival of Motorsports weekend. The Again these were amazing events, so congratulations to festival will be based at the Chisholm Reserve Sporting all involved. If I had a dollar for every time I have heard Complex, but will also include activities and shows around visitors comment about Swan Hill recently, I would surely Swan Hill. be a rich man. Central Ward From go karts and motor bikes, to drag racing and 4WDs, Central Ward It makes me happy to hear these comments because it CR JIM CROWE it’s been great to see so many clubs coming together to work CR GREG CRUICKSHANK means we as a community are doing things right. We really on promoting what the world of motorsports can offer. This do live in a special place and if we keep reminding ourselves 0418 181 656 0419 754 174 of this, then other people will see it that way too. event will be the first of its kind for Swan Hill and with such a [email protected] [email protected] wide variety of activities there will be something for everyone.

I would like to thank and commend the Nyah District I would once again like to thank and congratulate the Action Group and the Nyah community for the hard work Robinvale Ski 80 Committee for another extremely well and time they put in to an EOI for a grant with Regional run event. It was fantastic to see so many people in the Arts for a Small Town Transformation. Although Robinvale area and the competition was fantastic. It is we weren’t successful this time, there were some great a real economy boost for our town and this could not ideas that came out through the development of the happen without the committee’s dedication. application that everyone can be very proud of. I know I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage Regional Arts Victoria is keen to keep this partnership Robinvale community members to get involved and going and hopefully there will be future grant application provide feedback on the recently released Draft Rural Land opportunities we can take advantage of and get some Use Strategy. The draft is a first for our municipality and of these identified projects off the ground. includes recommendations for a rural residential candidate I would also like to encourage farmers, landholders area in Robinvale. This could result in possible rezoning Murray Ward Robinvale Ward and residents to get a copy of the Draft Rural Land Use of land to facilitate future rural housing opportunities. CR GARY NORTON Strategy and give Council feedback. Get to an information CR JOHN KATIS Hopefully you can attend the information session, or if not, 0428 398 981 session if you can, and let us know how you would Deputy Mayor make an appointment to see Council staff in Robinvale on [email protected] like to see farming zoned land used and developed in 0459 077 532 18 May to ask any further questions. the future. [email protected]

WWW.SWANHILL.VIC.GOV.AU CONTACT Email: [email protected] UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS COUNCIL PO Box 488, Swan Hill VIC 3585 Swan Hill Business Centre >> 17 May at Swan Hill Town Hall 28 June at Swan Hill Town Hall 45 Splatt Street Swan Hill VIC 3585 >> Phone 5036 2333, Fax 5036 2340 >> 19 July at Swan Hill Town Hall 16 August at Robinvale Community Centre Robinvale Resource Centre >> 68-72 Herbert Street Robinvale VIC 3549 Phone 5051 8000, Fax 5051 8010 Council meetings are generally held at 2pm.

Both offices are open Monday to Friday 8.30am until 5pm. All members of the public are welcome to attend Council meetings. Agendas are available at www.swanhill.vic.gov.au in the days leading up to the meeting. Special Council Meetings will also be held from time to time. Swan Hill Rural City Council and/or its employees do not guarantee that this publication is without Visit www.swanhill.vic.gov.au for details or check local media. flaw or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any loss or other consequences which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 3

RAILINGSwan Hill Rural City Council has welcomed the infrastructure AHEAD for the betterment of communities announcement from the Federal Government across the Murray region.” A MESSAGE that it will provide $220 million towards the The Central Murray Regional Transport Forum, Murray Basin Rail freight upgrade, matching the a consortium of councils across the Central Victorian Government’s funding for the project. Murray region from Victoria and New South Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les Wales, also welcomed the funding. McPhee said the announcement would ensure Central Murray Regional Transport Forum freight within the Murray region would be returned Chairman Cr Greg Cruickshank congratulated FROM THE CEO to rail. the government on its foresight in investing in Serpentine to Swan Hill and will soon take “This will improve the efficiency of rail freight the project. up permanent residence. within the Murray Basin, which then helps “This project, which will see gauge In these first few weeks I have been improve the productivity of commodity-based standardisation and track strengthening works impressed with the level of passion businesses in Northern Victoria and Southern from to Maryborough, is integral to the displayed by the Councillors of Swan Hill New South Wales,” Cr McPhee said. future prosperity of the Central Murray region,” and the depth of involvement they have “Additionally, by increasing the efficiency of Cr Cruickshank said. in the many community groups that make freight movement within the region it takes a “The announcement is very much welcomed up this vibrant city. I’ve been greeted significant proportion of heavy freight off the road by the transport forum and we congratulate both as I walked in the front doors of Council network, improving road safety. the Victorian and Federal Governments in working offices by enthusiastic, professional and “It’s great to see all levels of government together to bring this important infrastructure to dedicated staff and I have a good feel working together to deliver this critical the region.” about the people in this organisation. I’ve been made to feel very welcome and am looking forward to continue to getting to know the many communities that make up this region. I have already seen the dedication to building on and improving some of the already fantastic assets here. The municipality is on the way up with a growing population, expanding economic base and a booming tourism industry. As we go through life we stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us. It is very evident that preceding generations of Swan Hill residents and As I write this column I’ve been in the chair business people have contributed much as Chief Executive Officer of the Swan Hill to making this city, and its surrounding Rural City Council for only a short time. towns the great places that they are. As I’ve come to Swan Hill having worked for Chief Executive Officer I will do my utmost the Shire of Loddon for the past 23 years to ensure the legacy of those that have - with the last 10 of those years serving as come before us is honoured and that we Chief Executive Officer. My wife Therese do the very best we can to continue to and I are in the process of moving from grow this great city. 2016 CENSUS NOW HIRING Census night is 9 August 2016 and the Australian “The ABS is looking for good communicators Bureau Statistics (ABS) is looking to hire Field and managers who know their community well,” Officers to assist in the collection of data around Mr Myers said. the Swan Hill Region. “Also, this census will be a little different to Census data supports local services and previous collections, taking a ‘digital-first’ first infrastructure, from health and education to approach (i.e. majority online). housing and transport. “This means field staff will be using computers Council’s Director Cultural and Community and tablets, and need to be a bit tech-savvy.” Development Bruce Myers said these jobs are a For more information on these positions, or to great way to give back to the community. apply, visit www.abs.gov.au/careers. ON TRACK: Council has welcomed funding to improve rail freight movement in the region.

LOCALIf you are a resident aged 18 years or GOVERNMENT over THINKING ABOUT STANDING FOR COUNCIL? ELECTIONS and on the State electoral roll for your present Swan Hill municipality residents thinking about address or own property in the municipality, standing for Council elections will have the you are required to vote in upcoming Swan Hill chance to attend information sessions to gain COUNCIL ELECTIONS TIMETABLE Rural City Council elections. an insight into the role. Voting is compulsory and the Victorian Electoral Municipal Association Victoria and Swan Hill TIME EVENT Commission will fine eligible residents who fail to Rural City Council will hold election information lodge their vote. Only non-resident voters and sessions around September this year for 4pm Entitlement date voters aged 70 years or over are not obliged to residents thinking about standing for Council. Friday, 26 August 2016 vote at local council elections. Details of these sessions will be released closer People must be on the State or local council roll by this Voters in the Swan Hill (Central) Ward will to the session dates. date to be eligible to vote at the election. elect four Councillors, while voters in the Lakes, Swan Hill Rural City Council Chief Executive Murray Mallee and Robinvale wards will elect one Officer John McLinden said prospective 12 noon Close of nominations Councillor for each area. candidates attending the sessions would be Tuesday, 20 September 2016 Voting will be conducted via postal ballots and able to find out what was involved before Anyone wishing to stand as a candidate must nominate residents who are listed on the electoral roll have nominating. by 12 noon. one vote only, no matter how many properties “Deciding to stand for Council is a quite a big they may own within the municipality. decision,” Mr McLinden said. Between Tuesday, 4 and Ballot packs are distributed (postal elections) All postal votes must be received by 21 “These information sessions will help Thursday, 6 October 2016 Ballot packs are distributed via post to every enrolled October 2016. prospective candidates learn more about being a person in a random order over three days. No more than Swan Hill Rural City Council urges residents to Councillor, what the role entails, the time involved 35 per cent of the ballot packs can be distributed on any ensure that they are correctly enrolled. Enrolment and what responsibilities they might take on as one day. forms from the Victorian Electoral Commission part of that role.” can be obtained from the Swan Hill Rural City A dedicated website – www.standforcouncil. Council Offices in Splatt Street Swan Hill. com.au – has also been launched through 6pm Close of voting (postal elections) Alternatively residents can download materials, the Municipal Association of Victoria, where Friday, 21 October 2016 In postal elections, ballot papers must be received by including information in a range of languages and candidates can check their eligibility to stand (1 day before election day) the VEC by 6pm on the day before election day. an Auslan video guide to voting from www.vec. for Council and find about more about the vic.gov.au. day-to-day activities of a Councillor. In you require more information The election will be conducted via post Saturday, 22 October 2016 Vote counting. about the elections please telephone the between 6 and 21 October. (Election day) Victorian Electoral Commission on 13 18 32, Candidates must nominate by 12 noon on or visit www.vec.vic.gov.au. Tuesday, 20 September. Source: vec.vic.gov.au 4 SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 BOOST FOR

BOUNDARY DRAG STRIP REVSCouncil has finished the UP final stages of its works to Chisholm Reserve drag strip, completing its components of the project in readiness to hand over to the Swan Hill Drag Racing Club. Sealing works and widening of the turning circle of the drag strip exits on the return road have been completed, as have finishing touches to the concrete profile, return road BENDLast month Victorian Attorney General Martin and drainage. Pakula visited Boundary Bend to announce The major infrastructure of the drag strip was funding towards the Boosting Boundary recently inspected by the Australian National Bend project. Drag Racing Association (ANDRA), who were This joint-funded project with Council will not impressed overall with the works so far. only enhance the functionality and aesthetic The drag racing club will undertake landscape of Boundary Bend, but provide a fencing, landscaping and other works prior stronger connection with the township and its to a final ANDRA inspection for national level major asset - the Murray River. accreditation. Upon accreditation, it will be the The upgrades will encourage more residents fourth nationally-accredited drag racing strip and tourists to flow between the two areas, in Australia. which will support greater economic activity The project, which received funding from throughout the town. the State Government and Council, has been The project includes: made possible due to the generosity and in- • A walking trail along the river linking the kind support from the Swan Hill Drag Racing north and south of the town and the two Club, local contractors, businesses and shopping venues. volunteers. Around $100,000 of in-kind work • Better signage indicating the town’s has been provided to the project, on top of services. local businesses donating goods and services • An entrance statement for the community at cost price. park and playground to entice visitors off The Chisholm Reserve drag strip features the highway. the longest concrete racing surface in • A dump point and lit toilets to attract the country and is the only temperature- travellers. controlled drag strip in the Southern • Formalised car park and landscaping work. ANDRA INSPECTION: ANDRA Competition Manager Brett Stevens and Hemisphere. At its peak, the facility is Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les Swan Hill Drag Racing Club's Lucas Woodburn (Vice President) and estimated to bring around 20,000 visitors McPhee said “the project strongly supported Gary Rovere (President) at the most recent ANDRA inspection. annually into our region. Council’s vision for the municipality - which states that we will have a prosperous, growing and diverse local and regional economy. “These works will not only further encourage visitors and tourists to stop off and stay in the area, the inclusion of a walking trail providing vital links between the river and the township, will also encourage locals and visitors to get out and be active.” PENTAL ISLAND ROAD This project has been made possible thanks to funding from the State Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund and Council.

CouncilWORKS has started works on an $800,000 UNDERWAY project to upgrade a six-kilometre section of Pental Island Road, thanks to funding from the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program. The project will see the remaining section of gravel road fully reconstructed and sealed DITCH with a 6.2 metre-wide road. The works, which will finish at Fish Point Bridge, will also include an upgrade of the Wearne Road intersection. Partial road closures and traffic control will be in place during the works, which will result in minor traffic delays. Council apologises for any inconvenience while the upgrade works WITH are being completed. The Pental Island Road provides an alternative link between Swan Hill and Lake Boga. The reconstruction and sealing works will improve the safety of the road, particularly DETOX during wet weather conditions. Local residents are being urged to The works are anticipated to be finished in THE FINAL LINK: The only remaining section of gravel on Pental Island Road ‘Detox Your Home’ – a free and easy- May, weather permitting. will now be fully reconstructed and sealed. to-use service to dispose of household chemicals without harming your health or the environment. Swan Hill Rural City Council, in partnership with Sustainability Victoria, PEDESTRIAN is encouraging residents to take the chance to get rid of unwanted, and potentially dangerous, items like pesticides, detergents and weed killers. The Detox Your Home collection will be held on Saturday, 4 June at 56 Saleyards Road, Swan Hill from SAFETYSafety has been enhanced at pedestrian 10am to 1pm. Simply turn up with crossings in Campbell Street with the your unwanted chemicals – no need replacement of temporary rubber speed to book. humps with raised asphalt pavement. Detox Your Home is administered Pedestrian crossing works have been by Sustainability Victoria in partnership completed at the southern end of Campbell with local governments and is funded Street at Jane Eliza and Quo Vadis, and at the by the Victorian landfill levy. The northern end near the Commercial Hotel. products collected are recycled for The works are similar to those completed recovery and diverted from landfill. at the pedestrian crossing in Beveridge Street For more information and for a adjacent to Coles supermarket. full list of what can and can’t be The upgrades have been made possible accepted visit www.sustainability. thanks to funding from the State Government’s vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome, call 1300 Traffic Accident Commission Local Government 363 744 or contact Council’s Waste Grant for Small-scale Infrastructure Program Management Unit on 5036 2401. SAFETY FIRST: Pedestrian crossing upgrades have been completed in Campbell Street. and Council. SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 5

A new transfer station at the Swan Hill Landfill McPhee said the transfer station was another has been officially unveiled, with the aim of great step in the continued efforts of diverting improving site layout and providing more recyclable waste from the landfill. efficient solutions to resource recovery and “These upgrades make it even easier for the SWAN HILL LANDFILL sorting waste. public to correctly sort and dispose of waste, Thanks to funding from Sustainability Victoria making a trip to the landfill a quick and easy and Council, the new transfer station features experience,” Cr McPhee said. four large skip bin bays and hardstand area, “By creating a contained customer and new safety fencing and gates, retaining walls business area, we have eliminated the need and improved road infrastructure. for community members to drive to the open TRANSFORMED A new weighbridge office was also cells – which is a big safety improvement.” constructed, as well upgrades to the entrance The $400,000 project was made possible road and landscaping works. through funding from Sustainability Victoria Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les ($190,000) and Council.

WHAT CAN I DROP OFF FOR FREE? To save money, make sure you sort There are a number of recyclable items your load into recyclables and non- that you can drop off for free at the recyclables – that way you don’t Swan Hill and rural landfills including: have to pay for the whole load to go • Scrap metal to the landfill. • Small rubble (bricks, The Big Green Shed at the Swan Hill crushed concrete, etc.) Landfill is another great place • Used motor oil to drop off those unwanted items from • Clean fill around your home. The Big Green Shed redirects your unwanted/reusable items, • Gas cylinders originally meant for the landfill and • Chemical containers (DrumMUSTER) resells them for a bargain price – you’ll • White goods be amazed at what you might find! • Televisions, computer monitors and The Big Green Shed accepts a variety accessories of materials in reasonable condition • Domestic, clean uncontaminated such as: timber • Timber, doors, window frames • Cardboard, paper • Tiles, pavers and bricks • Aluminium cans, steel cans, plastic drink/milk bottles and assorted • Furniture and household items plastic containers • Bric-a-brac WASTE WISE: Mayor Les McPhee and Sustainability Victoria's Director • Clean grass clippings • Books, tapes and albums Waste and Resource Recovery Programs Jenny Pickles drop the first bag of waste • Used cooking oil • Bikes, trikes, scooters into the new transfer station bins. RIVER ROAD SAFETY UPGRADE Works have started on Stage 1 to upgrade “River Road has been identified if further safety improvements were required, and improve the safety of River Road in as a safety concern for both drivers including the possibility of further works along Swan Hill. and pedestrians, with reports of an Palaroo Street. Stage 1 of the upgrade will see a complete alarming number of motorists not obeying Road closures will be in place during the reconstruction of the road between Arnoldt the speed restrictions in place,” Council’s upgrade, however local access for residents Street and Douglas Road, including Acting Director Infrastructure Rosanne will be maintained. Council apologies for widening the section from 3.9 metres to 6.2 Kava said. any inconvenience and urges motorists metres. Minor traffic calming devices will “The upgrades will address a number of to exercise caution when driving through also be installed at the intersection of River safety issues, including widening the road, the area. Road and Arnoldt Street. increasing visibility and installing minor traffic The River Road upgrade plans are Council held an open house information calming devices in appropriate locations to available from Council’s website session on 22 March, where community impede speeding.” www.swanhill.vic.gov.au. members viewed the plans and spoke with Ms Kava added that once Stage 1 For more information on the upgrades, RIVER ROAD REMEDY: 1.45km of River staff regarding the upgrades and possible upgrades are completed, Council would re- contact Council’s Engineering Road will be fully reconstructed and future works. evaluate the safety of the area to determine Department on 5036 2324. widened in a bid to improve safety. LAKE BOGA CATALINA ACTIVATION Thanks to funding from the State Government, WORKS locals and visitors to Lake Boga will soon benefit from an exciting new development at the Catalina Park. The Lake Boga Catalina Activation Project UPDATE will see a highly anticipated café and wine Our works teams and contractors have bar incorporated into the existing Flying Boat been busy completing these projects in the Museum. past few months… Infrastructural improvements will also be Road works made to the immediate foreshore of the lake, >> Reconstructed Lake Boga - Ultima further enhancing the adjacent community Road - 2.2km park, as well as the construction of an >> Reconstructed - Ultima Road aquatic themed adventure park and removal - 1.8km of obsolete infrastructure that currently >> Resheeted Aerodrome Road, Swan Hill interferes with the view of the lake. - 900 metres Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les McPhee said the announcement of this >> Resheeted McFarlane Road, Swan Hill generous funding has ensured that the Lake - 300 metres Boga Catalina Park project will go ahead. Resheeted Rosewood Road, Lake >> "This significant project, which is a Boga - 1.4km priority for Swan Hill Council, will ensure our >> Reconstructed Annuello Wemen Road, lakeside area will not only be enhanced, but Wemen - 3.2km will provide an important link to the historic >> Started reconstructing 6km of Pental Catalina Flying Boat Museum,” Cr McPhee Island Road said. >> Started reconstructing 1.45km of River "This means current and future generations, Road, Swan Hill as well as visitors to the region, will be able Projects to learn about the fundamental role of Lake >> Constructed two raised pedestrian Boga during World War II, while also enjoying crossings in Campbell Street the aesthetic quality of our beautiful lakeside. >> Contractor has resealed around 270,000 “Not only will this development be another sqm of sealed roads throughout the draw card for visitors to our region, it will also municipality create six new permanent and 13 new casual >> Constructed car park along Monash jobs in the hospitality industry.” Drive near Riverside Park This project has been made possible thanks Coming up AVIATION ACTIVATION: Victorian Attorney General Martin Pakula (centre) pictured with to funding from the State Government’s >> Upgrade Lake Boga irrigation system museum volunteer Les Bond, Lake Boga Lions Club Vice President Ian Nancarrow, Mayor Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, Les McPhee and Lake Boga Inc President Cameron Smits. Council and the Lake Boga Lion’s Club. 6 SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 DRAFT RURAL LAND USE STRATEGY

CONSULTATIONSwan Hill Rural City Council has released • Swan Hill - Monday,16 May at Council’s CONTINUES the Draft Rural Land Use Strategy and is Splatt Street office encouraging community members to get • Robinvale - Wednesday, 18 May at the involved and provide feedback. Robinvale Resource Centre The Draft Strategy, the first of its kind for All submissions must be received by close our region, considers all land currently in the of business Tuesday, 31 May 2016. Farming Zone and provides recommendations Submissions should be addressed to the that are intended to guide land use and Chief Executive Officer and can be sent via development in rural areas. post at PO Box 488, Swan Hill, 3585, emailed Committed to informing our community to [email protected], faxed to 5036 members, Council has hosted a number of 2430 or in person at Council’s offices in Splatt information sessions with local community Street, Swan Hill and Herbert Street, Robinvale. groups throughout the exhibition period to Visit council’s website at www.swanhill. explain the proposed changes. vic.gov.au/draft-RLUS to download a copy To ensure community members have a of the draft strategy, find out more about the full understanding of the proposed strategy, information sessions, access feedback forms Council staff will also be available by or provide feedback via an online survey. appointment on the following dates to answer For more information contact Council’s any further questions: Planning Department on 5036 2407. COMMUNITY PLANNING UPDATE ROBINVALE The next steps $13,000 to the upgrades, which will include the Council’s Community Development team ACCESS TO SERVICES Council is currently undertaking focus installation of two wooden sculptures. was absolutely thrilled with the level • Health and Medical Services group sessions with Council’s Aboriginal The sculptures will be carved from Cedar or of interest and engagement shown • Agriculture, Retail and Commercial Community Planning Officer and Aboriginal Cyprus wood using a chainsaw and will pay in Robinvale for the review of their Enterprise Elders in Robinvale to identify synergies tribute to two of the park’s namesakes – AN community plan. • Telecommunications with other current plans or those currently Lewis and William Lewis. With almost 200 people providing in development (this consultation will feedback to La Trobe University students PROMOTING PARTICIPATION identify any projects that appear in JAYCEE PARK, SWAN HILL and Council officers, a draft plan has been • Leadership and Governance both plans). Construction has started on the new Meeting prepared and presented to Council. • Diversity and Inclusion Robinvale Euston Business Association Place in Jaycee Park. It is hoped the project will The draft has been broken down into three • Education and Training (REBA) has also reported back on be finished by the end of June, with community key areas – Access to Services, Promoting BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE their priorities, and will present a draft concept planning for the whole park to follow Participation and Building Infrastructure. • Housing implementation plan to take to the community after the Meeting Place works are completed. Under each key area is a list of priority • Recreation, Cultural Arts and Tourism for approval. areas and corresponding actions or projects • Built Environment Keep an eye out for the upcoming community WOORINEN that will help support and improve current meeting to adopt the reviewed community plan The Woorinen District Progress Association services or functions. and initial implementation. unanimously voted for $15,000 of their community planning budget to go towards MANANGATANG the rebuilding of the Woorinen Football Netball Children’s seating will be installed in Lowan Club facility. Park in May. Stage 1 of the Walking Path project A Woorinen Community Plan review meeting will also be underway very soon, providing safe will also take place on Wednesday, 18 May to LIGHTING THE RIVERFRONT pedestrian access from the Community Centre discuss the plan’s review. The ambient lighting of trees along the The Council-managed works were part to the Pool. Swan Hill riverfront has added yet another of the Swan Hill Lighting Strategy and For more information or to be involved with dimension to the popular area. were completed by local contractor Laser NYAH community planning in your town, contact Stretching from the boat ramp through Electrical. Council engaged Pollen Studio Stage 1 of the AN Lewis Park in Nyah Council’s Community Planning Officer Chris to Riverside Park, the lighting emphasises to develop the lighting strategy, which won makeover is currently underway thanks to the Rowlands on 5036 2333 or email chris. the natural beauty of the area and a planning award at the 2015 Australian Nyah District Action Group. The group allocated [email protected]. complements the Heartbeat of the Murray Institute of Landscape Architecture (AILA) Experience by leading visitors to the Awards for Victoria. Pioneer Settlement. The lighting was funded through the The lights can be modified to suit Public Safety Infrastructure Fund to improve different themes, such as pink to promote community surveillance and safety in the awareness of the Cancer Council’s Pink area. Council also provided a contribution Ribbon campaign. towards the riverfront development.

NATURAL BEAUTY: The installation of lighting has added yet another dimension to the Swan Hill riverfront. CLUB CONTRIBUTION: Woorinen District Progress Association President Lisa Ashdown presenting Woorinen Football Netball Club President Dean Morpeth with a $15,000 contribution. SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 7 A WORD WITH WAL and from all walks of life, and have heard and learnt some incredible things. “Just recently I met a young Chinese backpacker in Robinvale. I could tell straight away he was a good person, so I gave him my details in case he needed somewhere to stay in Swan Hill. Just a few days later I got a phone call and he ended up staying with my wife and I for a week. We learned so much about his culture and even took a trip to the Chinese Museum in . It was fantastic.” Further highlighting his love and dedication to his job, Wal said he really enjoys getting to know his regular customers. WAL’S WAGON: Wal St Clair – Mobile “I think customer service is really Library Operator extraordinaire delivers important. I make a big effort to learn and books under all circumstances. remember names, and when a person STORY TIME: A stop at the Kindergarten always includes a story book or two. comes in a couple of time to borrow books You’ll never find Mobile Library Operator I pick up on their reading interests and can excitement will encourage them to get into and I want as many people to have access Wal St Clair in the same place for long, then put books aside that I think they’ll like.” reading themselves.” to books as possible. as he travels around the Swan Hill and A new stop on the Mobile Library route Covering almost 1,000km a week in the “It’s something that can bring all ages, neighbouring municipalities, providing book means that Wal now visits the Nyah West Mobile Library, come rain, hail (or station genders, races together, and that’s what the borrowing services to our smaller rural Kindergarten. wagon!), Wal makes sure he doesn’t miss job is about for me. towns. Not content with just providing a book a stop. “This is the best job in the world. It Wal has been driving the Mobile Library borrowing service, Wal jumps out of the “On the rare occasion the truck has had really is.” for 18 years, and thinks the best part about truck and sits down with the kinder students to go in for repairs. So when that’s the case, For more information on the Mobile his job is people. and reads them a story or two. I’ll load up a station wagon and get books Library, including timetables, visit “The people you meet are absolutely “I really get a buzz out of reading to the to the community that way – even when it’s Council’s website at www.library. amazing,” Wal said. kids. It’s great seeing them get excited and pouring rain. swanhill.vic.gov.au or contact the “I’ve met people from all over the world interested in a story, and my hope is that this “I think reading is such a vital part of life library on 5036 2480. LIGHTS, FOOTY, ACTION! Lighting works at the Swan Hill Showgrounds sports competitions. are complete, with the installation of four new Swan Hill Football Netball Club President 33-metre light towers, significantly improving Alistair Ward said the first home game under visibility at night. lights went extremely well. Final touches to the works, including power “We had a larger crowd than normal, which supply connection, were finished in March. was fantastic,” Mr Ward said An official “opening” was held on the 30 “The new lights have also really helped April, during half time at the Swan Hill vs during training, with more visibility allowing for Woorinen night time football match under the further skills development. glow of the lights. “These upgrades are definitely a great new As well as improving safety, the upgrades asset for the club and will really benefit the mean the showgrounds can be used for events community.” SHOWGROUNDS LIGHT UP: Four new towers have been lighting up the such as AFL Victoria competitions, local night This project was made possible thanks to Swan Hill Showgrounds since April. fixtures, night cricket training and interschool funding from the State Government and Council.

CELEBRATINGA huge international food market, fabulous DIVERSITY local performances and the unveiling of a giant community garden were all part of the Harmony Day event at Swan Hill’s Riverside Park. Held on 9 April, the event is one of the biggest Harmony Days in regional Victoria, with more than 3,000 people celebrating the region’s diversity. The day included local performances from the Funk Kings and multicultural dance groups, ukulele workshops by the Swan Hill Uke Group (SHUG) and a local cultural fashion parade. The Bendigo Chinese Association Lion Team also entertained the crowd. A community-created project, the Giant Harmony Garden was also officially unveiled. The garden featured more than 1,000 flowers made by around 400 community members. The event also saw the launch of the Marruk Project film 1,2 Step featuring Jeroncè, the Agar Sisters and the Marruk Dance Mob – filmed at last year’s Harmony Day. Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les McPhee said Harmony Day continued to go from strength to strength. “This year was certainly no exception,” Cr McPhee said. “I’d like to congratulate the Swan Hill Harmony Day Committee on organising another fantastic event where our local communities come together and learn about different cultures while celebrating our diverse region.” Harmony Day is supported by Swan Hill Rural City Council, Regional Arts Victoria, Mallee Family Care, Community Issues Group, Bendigo Bank, Sunrise Rotary, Swan Hill District Health and a team of event volunteers. FLOWER POWER: The Giant Harmony Garden included more than 1,000 flowers made by around 400 community members. 8 SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016

Based on the books written by Hazel children’s publications. EdwardsHIPPO! and illustrated by Deborah Niland, The story has been adaptedHIPPO! for stage Running time: 50 minutes HIPPO! HIPPO! is a new musical adventure by Garry Ginivan and Mark Jones. Garry Swan Hill Town Hall for children and families. is an award-winning producer of children’s Featuring the imaginary and loveable pink musical theatre including The Eggscellent Performing Arts Centre hippopotamus, it tells the story of Hippo, an Adventures of Stripey the Emu Chick! Thursday, 19 May 2016 imaginary friend of a young girl. Hippo helps Wombat Stew, Possum Magic and My at 10am and 12pm the girl to allay her fears and gain confidence Grandma lived in Gouligulch. in her early childhood years. Joyful and brimming with childhood All tickets $9 each HIPPO! HIPPO! is based on the wonder, HIPPO! HIPPO! will make you laugh phenomenally successful children’s classic and maybe even make you cry, but most of 2444, online at www.swanhillonline.com or There’s a Hippopotamus on Our Roof all, it is guaranteed to lift your spirits in a big swanhillperformingarts.com.au. Eating Cake, first published in 1980. The and unbeatable way! Tickets can also be purchased 30 minutes internationally-acclaimed book series has Book through the Swan Hill Region prior to the performance at the Swan Hill become one of Australia’s most loved Information Centre in person or phone: 5036 Town Hall, if not sold out. NATIONAL PRINT AND DRAWING AWARDS The month of May will see the Art Gallery On 26 May, Moulamein artist Barb Harris hold the 2016 Swan Hill National Print and will hold a drawing workshop for seniors, Drawing Acquisitive Awards. while on 3 June Art Gallery Director Ian Tully This year’s Print and Drawing Awards will will give a talk titled Fabriano – 700 years of incorporate a program of workshops, talks papermaking. Ian will discuss the interesting by artists and Print That 2! – an exhibition history of the small European town of showcasing printmaking from the region’s Fabriano, one of the earliest (and important) secondary schools. sites of high-quality industrial papermaking Print and drawing winners will be and handmade art paper. announced at the awards’ launch on 14 May, Finally, on the 27 June Gunbower artist which will include the launch of the Print That Jesse Munzel will be holding a drawing 2! exhibition. At 11am the following morning, workshop for young people aged 12 years the award finalists and judges will hold an and up. Bookings for this workshop are informative guided walk through the Print and essential – call the gallery on the number Drawing Awards exhibition. below to reserve a spot. Running until the 10 July, this long-running For more information regarding events at national print and drawing prize, which the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery, contact celebrates printmaking and drawing, sees the gallery on 5036 2430, visit gallery.swanhill. some of the finest contemporary works vic.gov.au or their Facebook page for updates AWARD WINNER: Internal Navigation 2012 (charcoal, conte) by Andrew Antoniou was entered from across Australia. on activities and workshops. awarded the prize for drawing at the 2014 National Print and Drawing Acquisitive Awards. WHAT’S ON MAY MARKETS 2nd Sat of the month >> LOOKING FOR SOMETHING MORE? ROBINVALE COUNTRY Sat 7 May – Wed 18 May This is just a taste of the events happening across the Swan Hill and Robinvale regions from the 1st Sat of the month MARKET, Caix Square, SWAN HILL BOWLS CLUB middle of December to the end of March taken from swanhillonline.com. There are other regular MURRABIT MARKET Robinvale, 8.30am to 50TH ANNUAL AUTUMN community events listed at swanhillonline.com including euchre, bingo, community group meetings (about 45km south east of 12.30pm. Contact 5026 and more. CARNIVAL, Swan Hill Bowls Swan Hill), 8.30am to 1pm. 3095. Club. Contact 5032 4083. >> GET A FREE EVENT LISTING Contact 5457 2205. Anyone can have their event uploaded to the swanhillonline.com site FREE! 3rd Sat of the month Fri 13 May 1st Sun of the month ANGLICAN BOOT SALE A NIGHT ON THE GREEN, Visit swanhillonline.com, go to the events calendar and follow the Log In instructions at the bottom of the page. SWAN HILL FARMERS MARKET, Anglican Function Barefoot Beauty and Your event will be confirmed by a member of the Swan Hill Region Information Centre team in MARKET, Riverside Park Centre, Splatt Street, Swan Wellness, Swan Hill. Pack no time and be up on the web for everyone to see. Swan Hill. 9am to 1pm. Hill, 9am to 12pm. Contact your picnic and enjoy a Contact 0456 531 606. night of local talent including 5032 2506 or 5032 3765. the Ukulele Club, Shannon with a great love of opera, SWAN HILL JUNE RACING AUGUST 2nd Sat of the month 3rd Sun of the month Bishop and other great local although it also embraces CARNIVAL, Swan Hill NYAH LIONS CLUB ROTARY CLUB OF SWAN artists. For more information a loving irreverence for her Racecourse. Wed 3 – Thurs 4 August MARKET, Nyah Trotting HILL MARKET, railway car contact Barefoot Beauty and occasionally over-inflated MALLEE MACHINERY FIELD Complex (24km north of Sun 12 June park, Curlewis Street, Swan Wellness on 5032 3681. ego. To book call 1800 DAYS, Highway, Swan Hill), 9am to 1pm. Hill, 9am to 1pm. Entry by 625 373 or online at www. SONIC SPEEDWAY SWAN Speed. 2km south of Speed Sat 14 May Contact 5030 2533 or gold coin donation. Contact swanhillonline.com. HILL RACING CLUB, Sea from 8.30am to 5pm SONIC SPEEDWAY SWAN Lake - Ultima Road, Swan Hill. 5030 2619. 5032 2164. HILL RACING CLUB, Sea Sun 15 May Super Rods, Support Classes WHAT ELSE? Lake - Ultima Road, Swan RSPCA MILLIONS PAWS VSC Juniors, Standard Hill. Sonic Rumble 150 WALK, Swan Hill Riverside Saloons, VSC Open Ladies, There are also regular Enduro, Support Class Park. 9am start. Contact Styreet Stocks, VSC Formula’s PYAP CRUISES (weekdays Juniors. Racing starts 0439 905 888. and V8 Super Modifieds. 2.30pm; weekends, Victorian from 1pm. school holidays and public JUNE holidays 10.30am and EMAIL OPTION Sat 14 - Sun 15 May JULY PRINT AND DRAWING Thurs 2 – Sat 18 June 2.30pm) and Sound and ACQUISITIVE AWARDS, GREASE THE MUSICAL, Sat 16 July - Sun 17 July Light tours at the Pioneer Swan Hill Art Gallery. For Swan Hill Theatre Group. ITALIAN FESTA, Italian Settlement. Call 5036 2410 further information contact Tickets on sale now at Swan Social Club, Yana Street for details. the Gallery 5036 2430. Swan Hill. Annual Festa Hill Region Information And don’t forget STORYTIME Centre, Cnr Curlewis and Della Madonna. Come along Sun 15 May each week at the Swan Hill McCrae Street, 1800 625 for delicious food, dancing, DEATH BY SOPRANO, Regional Library for the kids. Would you like to receive a copy of our 373 or online at www. children’s and family activities Swan Hill Town Hall. Death Saturday Story Time 11am, newsletter delivered straight to your inbox? swanhillonline.com. and fireworks. by Soprano satirically Wednesday Story Time Just send an email with ‘newsletter’ catalogues operatic Fri 10 – Sun 12 June Sun 24 July 10.30am, Thursday Baby written in the subject line to death scenes in an A-Z, MURRAY DOWNS GOLF NYAH HARNESS RACING, Rhyme time 10.30am. [email protected]. cabaret romp, created AND COUNTRY CLUB Swan Hill Racecourse. Call 5036 2480 for details.