COUNCIL CONNECTION GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWSLETTER August - September 2017 ISSUE 79

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Latest Community Rates split into Annual plan and Garage Sale Trail Directory out now manageable portions budget snapshot seeks record regos Mayor's Message Council budgets for short and long term regional growth Council's operational overall rates notice half-yearly, meaning plan and budget ratepayers will pay half of their charges for for 2017-18, these components in August and the other each delivered on half when they receive their water rates July 4, are about notices in February. consolidation. Council is already displaying the type of They ensure leadership called for in the operational plan the fundamental with its ground-breaking Landfill economic, social, Gas-to-Power Project and Memorial Park environmental and legislative elements are in place for the Pumptrack initiatives featuring prominently Cover community to flourish as per Council's in national awards recently. Gladstone's Round Hill Lookout has a fresh four pillars - People, Place, Prosperity and The sense of community Council is new look including a series of interpretive and regional information signs. The signs are part of a Process. seeking to generate via the plan will be in $200,000 upgrade for the site. You can read more about 2017-18 evidence when some of the region's most Page 3 elsewhere in this newsletter and on our popular public events arrive in the coming website but, essentially, the end product is months. about much more than dollar amounts on First off the rank is the 125th Gladstone Council Connection paper. This newsletter is produced every two Show which will celebrate its memorable months by Gladstone Regional Council The operational plan and budget are milestone on August 9 with promises that to inform residents about Council events, the vehicles for creating a resilient local this year's event will be the biggest in its activities, services and projects. It is printed on economy robust enough to negotiate renowned history. 60 per cent recycled paper. market downturns but with the versatility Following soon after is the Botanic to to respond to new opportunities present Delivery Bridge fun run which draws serious Council Connection is delivered directly into during periods of growth. runners searching for a victory or a all residential letterboxes by Australia Post It is about Council providing fair and personal best performance as well as those as 'unaddressed mail' and is also available transparent leadership that inspires and for viewing or downloading from Council’s who see it as an opportunity to exercise in works in partnership with the community. website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au a popular social event. Cost The budget also aims to keep rates manageable, limiting the increase to half Focus will then turn to the much-loved Council Connection is automatically delivered Calliope Rodeo and Ute Muster, a huge free of charge to households in the Gladstone that of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Region who have a residential letterbox. The continuing Council's record in recent years night on the township's social calendar, at cost of printing and distributing the newsletter of keeping rates increases below CPI Chapman Park, Calliope, on September is 48.6 cents per household per edition. growth. 29-30. Council will also charge the water, There's always plenty on offer for residents sewerage and service components of the and visitors in the .

Gladstone Regional Council PO Box 29, Gladstone Qld 4680 nect Phone: 4970 0700 Fax: 4975 8500 n Email: [email protected] www.gladstone.qld.gov.au CoWITH COUNCIL www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au/econnect @GladstoneRegionalCouncil @GladstoneRegionalCouncil @GladRegCnl

Gladstone Office Calliope Office Office Agnes Water Rural Boyne Tannum Mount Larcom Rural 101 Goondoon Street 5 Don Cameron Drive 41 Blomfield Street Transaction Centre Community Centre Transaction Centre Open 8.30am to 5pm, Open 8.30am to 5pm, Open 8.30am to 5pm, 71 Springs Road Cnr Wyndham & Hayes Raglan Street Monday to Friday Monday to Friday Monday to Friday Open 9am to 4:30pm, Avenues, Boyne Island Open 9am to 1pm and 2pm Monday to Friday Open 9am to 5:30pm, to 5pm Monday to Friday and Monday to Friday 9am to noon on Saturday

Cr Matt Burnett Cr Glenn Churchill Cr Peter Masters Mayor Councillor Councillor Phone: 4976 6903 Phone: 0407 289 139 Phone: 0438 145 780 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Cr Chris Trevor Cr Kahn Goodluck Cr Desley O'Grady Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Phone: 0437 757 839 Phone: 0433 944 302 Phone: 0437 837 148 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Cr Cindi Bush Cr Rick Hansen Cr PJ Sobhanian Councillor Councillor Councillor Phone: 0437 642 081 Phone: 0448 885 047 Phone: 0412 544 201 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Council staff compost Ecofest waste

Biodegradable materials left over from Ecofest 2017 are now, for the first time, being composted at Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens. A biodegradable retaining bin was built prior to the event using hay bales, organic fertiliser pellets and lawn clippings. The biodegradable event materials have since been added to the mix and will now be composted over the next six to 12 months. Once ready, the compost will be used in the gardens to enhance soil fertility and plant health. Popular lookouts receive smart new look The initiative was made possible thanks to Council's Tondoon Botanic Gardens Gladstone city's popular Auckland Point the car park and bus stop areas. and Conservation and Cleansing teams. and Round Hill scenic lookouts now The $110,000 Auckland Hill upgrade offer enhanced visitor experiences after included the redesign of the facility undergoing extensive upgrade works to optimise pedestrian access and completed in May and June. improve parking including provision for Visitors to the Round Hill Lookout will motorcycles, the installation of a large notice the installation of a series of regional information sign, and resurfacing interpretive and regional information of the car park and bus stop areas. signs designed to identify various points of Both projects were completed with interest which are visible from the site. assistance from the State Government's Points of interest include natural features Scenic Lookout Upgrade Program which and locations, townships and industrial provided $100,000 for the Round Hill sites, all of which are identified by use of Lookout upgrade and $50,000 for the a numbered pin drop on a panoramic Auckland Hill Lookout upgrade. image contained on the signs, and are The program was designed to help accompanied by additional information. councils throughout revitalise The $200,000 Round Hill upgrade existing lookouts in order to promote consisted of the provision of bench seats, tourism and it is hoped that visitors to picnic tables and waste facilities, repair Gladstone, as well as residents, will make and cleaning of concrete paths and kerbs, greater use of the superb views available at enhanced safety fencing and resurfacing of both venues.

Rate notices for the past financial year now available online Rate notices for the previous financial year www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/OnlineServices are now available online to registered Once your entered details have been users of Council's Online Services website. matched with Council's rates database, The availability was delivered in time for you will receive a confirmation email 2016-17 tax return lodgements, to enable enabling you to sign in to Online Services ratepayers to conveniently source rate and access your rate notice by clicking expenses for their business or investment 'Rates Enquiry' under the 'General Enquiry' properties. menu item. To view rate notices online, ratepayers Rate notices for the current financial year will need to sign in as a registered user of will be available online soon after their Online Services. postal issue in August. If not already registered, ratepayers can Rate notices issued before last year are not request to become a user by clicking the available online but can be requested by 'Register for online services' button on phoning Council on 4970 0700. Council's free Community Services Directory now available

Council's 2017-2018 Community Services Directory is available for free across the Gladstone Region. The popular community resource lists contact details for a broad range of general community services, which includes special interest, sporting and recreation groups and health and support services for all ages. Information in the directory is updated and published annually by Council as a free community service. Each year not-for-profit groups and organisations are invited to promote their Register before breeding cats or dogs contact details and general information at no cost. Government bodies are working In addition, Council has introduced cat together to reinforce responsible pet breeding approvals to align with the The sought-after booklets are available ownership and put a stop to backyard State Government changes. from Council's customer service centres, breeding. regional libraries, rural transaction centres As at June 16, 2017, all pet owners and the Community Advisory Service. The State Government, on May who wish to breed their cat are 26, 2017, introduced new animal required to seek approval from Council Electronically, the directory can be management laws that require pet under the new local law amendment. accessed online via Council's website, or owners who wish to breed their dog to can be viewed on tablet or mobile devices Once approval is granted, cat owners register as a breeder. with search functions and links to Facebook will be issued with a breeder approval and web pages. After registering, pet owners will number (supply number) which they receive a unique identification number will need to include as part of any sale View the directory at www. which needs to be displayed on every advertisement. gladstonecommunitydirectory.com.au sale advertisement. The change is actioned on a complaints The number will also need to be added received basis, so residents are Administration officer to the dog's microchip information and encouraged to contact Council if a cat Jo Antoine with Council's be passed on to the new owner if the and/or kitten is being advertised for sale free 2017-2018 dog is sold. without a breeder approval number. Community Services Directory. Registration is free and valid for a 12 Council will issue relevant approval month period. Pet owners have up to conditions and penalties will apply to 28 days after the first litter is born to owners who either fail to adhere to the register as a breeder. conditions or allow their cat to breed without prior approval. For more information or to register as a breeder, visit the Queensland Dog For more information, visit Council's Breeder Register website at website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ www.qdbr.daf.qld.gov.au breeding-permits

Infrastructure plan open to consultation

Council's proposed Local Government anticipated urban growth. The document and Infrastructure Plan (LGIP) is open for The document would then provide the feedback forms can be obtained public consultation until 5pm on August 7. basis for Council imposing conditions on online at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ have-your-say or at Council administration The proposed LGIP identifies Council's development approvals to provide this centres in Agnes Water, Calliope and plans for trunk infrastructure, such as trunk infrastructure. Gladstone. water supply, sewerage, transport, The proposed plan would replace stormwater and parks, necessary to the interim LGIP under Category 4 of For more information visit the website or service urban development in areas of Council's planning scheme. phone Council on 4970 0700.

Page 4 Pursuit of excellence leads to state award The pursuit of water service delivery complications caused by heavy rain excellence is the driving factor behind associated with ex-Tropical Cyclone Council's Glenn Cook being named Debbie in March meant Glenn and his Queensland Water Directorate team had to operate the plant manually. Operator of the Year (Civil/Allrounder). Glenn has also identified potential Glenn, who is Overseer for Council's solutions to address algae issues Water Services Division, has wasted little time in implementing experienced at most of Council's improvements to water and wastewater effluent ponds and is in the process treatment plant processes and building of developing algal testing and a strong team around him since starting management strategies across all plants. with Council in April, 2016. His implementation of an improved It is these efforts to improve efficiency sampling regime at all of Council's at a number of facilities, while wastewater treatment plants has also overseeing the training and enabled Council to work towards a development of plant operator staff that better understanding of the causes of Council helps to were the catalyst for his award. algae issues and other problems. In particular, Glenn's insights during control wild dogs and construction of the Miriam Vale Water Glenn has moulded a relatively new Treatment Plant proved invaluable, processing team into one that is thriving feral pigs identifying a number of problems during on the daily challenges of their jobs and Council's Pest Management Team will proof of performance testing and the identifying ways to improve efficiency roll out a 1080 baiting program in early commissioning process and working at the various plants, reducing costs September to help control wild dogs and with the contractors to resolve them. for Council and Gladstone Region feral pigs. His experience also proved vital when ratepayers in the process. The second baiting campaign for the year will take place during whelping season to maximise landscape control outcomes. Baiting stations will be present at Calliope and Galloway Plains on September 7 and Colosseum Creek on September 9. To support rural landholders in controlling wild dogs and feral pigs, Council offers up to 10 free injected meat baits to each approved landholder on the day. To participate or for more information, Glenn Cook (left) with his QWD phone Council's Pest Management Team Operator of the Year award. on 4970 0700.

Tutors sought for Council's SUNfest 2018 youth school holiday program Potential tutors willing to share their skills SUNfest is managed by Gladstone and talents with youth are invited to submit Regional Council's Youth Development an Expression of Interest to take part in team and is guided by input from the Council's summer youth school holiday Gladstone Region Youth Council. program, SUNfest 2018. SUNfest participants often return home SUNfest will be held from Monday, with an object they have made, a new skill January 8 to Friday, January 19 and provides our residents aged between 11 or a new interest. and 17 years with a chance to participate Expressions of Interest for SUNfest 2018 in a selection of affordable activities across tutors will be open until September 15 the Gladstone Region. with details available at www.gladstone.qld. Expressions of Prospective tutors and presenters are gov.au/sunfest sought to deliver youth workshops Interest are SUNfest queries can be directed to being taken from or activities related to arts and potential tutors for culture, performing arts, health, sport Vernetta Perrett or Di Paddick at Council SUNfest 2018. and recreation, social events and on 4976 6983 or email sunfest@ environmental education. gladstone.qld.gov.au Page 5 New CEO to Change to rates breaks costs start on August 7 into manageable portions Council has split water access and Instalment options are available to sewerage charges into two six-monthly ratepayers unable to meet notice due bills to assist ratepayers to manage their dates. payments and meet early payment Eligible pensioners can apply for a discount deadlines. Council subsidy and State Government August's rate notice will now include remission, and ratepayers who only half of its annual water access and demonstrate Financial Hardship – an sewerage charges; the other half will inability to meet basic requirements be a new addition to February water such as food and accommodation – consumption notices. may be eligible for relief. This means between $264 and $706, On average, residential properties will depending on a property's location (see experience an increase in annual rates table below), will be transferred from and service charges of $1 per week or August notices to February notices. two per cent, which is below CPI. A 10 per cent discount will apply to However, due to fluctuations in the Council has appointed its new Chief early payments received within 30 distribution of valuations across the Executive Officer with Roslyn Baker to step days of notice issue, and a five per cent region, more than half of properties into the role on August 7. discount applies to sums received in will experience a decrease or no the period of 31 to 60 days after issue. change to their annual charges. Roslyn, who was most recently the Chief Operating Officer at Energy Queensland Limited, boasts extensive experience as a How your rates and service charges will be split CEO and senior executive across a number August rate notice February notice of industries over a distinguished 20 year career. • General rates • Half of water access and sewerage • Garbage collection charge charges Roslyn's proven record of growing business • Half of water access and sewerage • Half-yearly water consumption value and achieving financial results within charges the petroleum, dairy, education and energy • Half-yearly water consumption sectors resulted in her landing the much sought-after role ahead of a strong field of candidates. Water access charges Ahead of her arrival at Council Roslyn said Scheme 2017-18 fee she was a passionate advocate for the regions, having spent most of her life living Lake Awoonga $235.50 per 6 months and working in regional Queensland. Miriam Vale/; $264 per 6 months "I understand the important role regional Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy councils play in enhancing lifestyle and economic prosperity," she said. Sewerage charges: "I feel very fortunate to be given the Service area 2017-18 fee opportunity to work with the community and lead the Gladstone Regional Council Gladstone $350 per 6 months workforce to ensure it adapts in line with Boyne Island / Tannum Sands / Calliope $372 per 6 months community needs." Agnes Water / Seventeen Seventy $442 per 6 months

Council provides new SES vehicles Council support has enabled the Rosedale in June. and Calliope State Emergency Service groups to purchase new vehicles to help Councillors were also on hand to present them continue their vital work in the national service medals to Diane McDonald community. of the Calliope group and Trevor Lynch of the Rosedale group for their 25 and 15 Council contributed $57,000 towards years' service with the SES respectively. the purchase of a Toyota Troop Carrier 4WD for the Rosedale group and $32,000 The SES is the primary responder for storm towards an Isuzu D-max Crew Cab 4WD and flood events, and provides support for the Calliope group. to other agencies such as the Queensland Police Service through search and rescue Councillors attended the official handover and road crash rescue services and of the vehicles at the Gladstone SES facility emergency traffic management. Page 6 Exhibition celebrates QAL's half-century

An exhibition of objects and photographs will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Queensland Alumina Limited (QAL) in August. Going strong since 1967, QAL has played a big role in our community, particularly as a major employer and notably in establishing the significant Gladstone Greenbelt. The exhibition shares stories of QAL's growth and development and some of the many community members who played a part in the organisation's half- century journey. The Giant that Never Sleeps: 50 Years of QAL opens at 6pm on August 4 at the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum and continues until October 7.

This photo of QAL in the early 1970s is part of an exhibition chronicling the industry giant's 50 year history.

Goondoon Streetscape Project well under way New seating, plants and raised garden has completed gardens and other features beds are just some of the many new along Goondoon Street, between William features that Goondoon Street now and Roseberry streets. boasts. The crew will now commence work The Goondoon Street beautification project is the forerunner to Council's on two additional garden beds between Jumpstart Our City Heart Urban Renewal Roseberry and Yarroon streets. Strategy. The project is due for completion mid- Council's Parks and Environment crew August.

US delegation promotes Yarwun biofuels potential The Gladstone Region is poised to play a However, it is the pilot plant's capacity to QUT Biotechnical function in San Diego prominent role in Queensland's efforts to produce biodiesel and the potential the and a number of biofuels summits. establish itself as a biofuel hub of the Asia- product has on the lucrative US market, Pacific region. particularly the US Navy, which promises The US Navy's Great Green Fleet to really put the Gladstone Region on the initiative, a commitment to source 50 per Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett's world biofuels supply map. cent of its fuel from renewable sources by recent visit with the Trade and Investment 2020, provides an obvious market for the Mission to the USA in June helped open The pilot plant will convert waste products and Northern the way to potentially lucrative overseas into renewable diesel and energy, including Oil to attempt to tap into. contracts for Northern Oil Advanced from plastics, wood waste, waste tyres, Biofuels Pilot Plant in Yarwun. sugar cane, green waste and macadamia It is hoped that the Mayor's visit to shells. The facility is the only one in Queensland promote the refinery's potential as a capable of recycling waste lube oil back Councillor Burnett joined the State renewable energy source will ultimately into base lube oil, providing a sustainable Government's Trade and Investment help create new jobs through further oil supply for truck fleets, heavy vehicle Mission in order to promote the plant's diversification of the Gladstone Region's operators, mines and local governments. potential as a biofuel source, attending the economy and industry. Page 7 2017-18 Plan & Budget Snapshot Council has released its plan and budget for the 2017-18 financial year, containing the first year of actions to achieve the outcomes of its recently adopted five-year plan. The plan supports four pillars of sustainability for Council and our region - a strong, resilient community; a prosperous, diverse economy; an environment that supports our needs and lifestyle; and rigorous Council processes.

People: a strong community Place: supporting our needs, Our vision is for the Gladstone Region to preserving our lifestyle have community spirit and pride that Our vision is that the Gladstone Region enjoys a natural and stems from being a resilient, creative, built environment that supports the needs and lifestyle of our healthy and inclusive community. unique communities for this generation and the next. In 2017-18 we will: In 2017-18 we will: • Identify opportunities to attract sporting events • Reduce road safety incidents • Deliver commitments under the new Indigenous Land Use • Assess the retention of our region’s characteristics in Agreement development approvals • Secure external funding for community and health services • Facilitate the Gladstone Region Environmental Advisory infrastructure Network We will invest in our community's wellbeing: We will invest in a safe transport network… Community assistance: inclusion, seniors, Road resurfacing at 104 sites and gravel road resheets at 38 sites. youth, legal advice and more. $6.6m $13.8M Arts & culture: premier performance Harvey Road upgrade, Clinton. $3.4M facility, exhibitions, programs, Red Rover Road upgrade, . $1.8M six libraries. $9.8m Sport & recreation: Advancement and … and open spaces that provide for diverse activity and support, including grants and pools. $9.5m social connections… • Lions Park redevelopment, Gladstone. $3.6M • Tom Jeffery Memorial Park redevelopment, Agnes Water. $1.2M • Mount Larcom Community Recreation Hub (Golding Park). $220K … and a water and sewerage network that provides for our existing and future needs Improving and maintaining 700km water mains network and 678km sewer main network. $89m Disaster Management

We will invest in the economic development of our Prosperity: region: resilient, diverse economy • GAPDL funding to assist the promotion of the region Our mission is the Gladstone Region enjoys a diverse, as a tourism destination. $430k resilient economy that provides for sustainable, responsible growth. • Funding contribution to cruise ship welcomes, including the Feast on East Markets. $40k In 2017-18 we will: • Funding to attract conferences to the region and • Reduce development application processing times and cut for economic development initiatives. $200k commercial licence red tape Keeping rates and service charges manageable: • Fast-track applicable commercial ventures • Actively participate in the delivery of Australia’s first • Annual water access and sewerage charges will be intergenerational village split into six-monthly bills (see article page 6) • On average, residential rates and services will increase by We have secured external funding for job-creating $1 per week, less than CPI projects: Funding for three major open space redevelopments (see projects under 'Place') and rural gravel seal program, secured on the basis of their job creating ability $6m

To view more plan and budget highlights, or to see the full 2017-18 Operational Plan and Budget visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/budget BRIEFLY

 Support for Army Reserves awarded Council's support for its employees in the Australian Defence Force recently earned a State award from the Defence Reserve Support Council of Queensland. Council won the Public Sector Employer Support Award following its nomination by Council Senior Engineering Officer Ed Dahlheimer. Outside of his work in Water Services, Major Dahlheimer is in charge of all infantry soldiers in Central Queensland. Ed said Council's leave The gross pollutant trap being lowered into place support for employees who are in the Australian Defence Force along with the support he has personally received to continue his important work in the Defence Reserves motivated him to Trap prevents litter reaching harbour waters nominate Council for the award. The Gladstone CBD's first gross pollutant the pollution entering these ecosystems, trap was installed in May and is busy accounting for about 50 per cent of the  Speed limit changes reducing the amount of rubbish entering total waste products. Gladstone Harbour. A uniform 50km/h In addition to capturing pollutants, the first speed limit now Lowered by crane into its location beside trap also serves as an educational tool for applies on Shaw and the Gladstone Yacht Club on May 24, the students and others interested in learning Beak streets in New installation of the 13.5 tonne concrete more about preventing pollution from structure was a joint initiative of Council and Auckland, Gladstone, reaching waterways. Gladstone Ports Corporation. replacing the mix of The trap features a glass top to enable 60km/h, 50km/h and Additional traps are to be installed in viewing of its inner workings, including 40km/h sections that Gladstone, Boyne Island and Tannum pollutant material captured, and its close previously applied. Sands in future years to prevent pollutants, proximity to the yacht club, East Shores particularly cigarette butts and plastics, from and the CBD makes it ideal for groups or entering local waterways. individuals to visit and learn more about its  Local businesses invited to register The location was chosen to install the function. If you're interested in doing business first of the traps after a CQUniversity In addition to capturing small items including with Council, don't forget to join our study found that the Auckland Creek and cigarette butts, the trap also features a local contractor register on VendorPanel Boyne River catchments were of particular pollutant separating screen that filters out concern. Marketplace to ensure opportunities large debris including plastics, leaves and to quote don't pass you by. Businesses The same study found that cigarette butts other litter which can endanger marine can also register with LG Tender Box were, by far, the largest contributor to animals and plants and pollute waterways. to receive notification of any tenders released by Council. Visit www. gladstone.qld.gov.au/TendersContracts Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens'

 Home library for volunteers lead the way residents in need New plant specimen records are The Gladstone facility is the first botanic Council provides now kept electronically at Gladstone gardens in the state to undertake the a home library Tondoon Botanic Gardens. transfer of records with the Queensland service to residents Herbarium in this way. of Gladstone and The data transfer project, involving the areas of Boyne volunteers from Tondoon and The database ensures all of Tondoon's records are accurate and kept up-to- Island, Tannum Sands Queensland Herbarium, has been four date. Volunteers will no longer have to and Calliope who years in the making. rewrite identification records if a mistake are unable to visit a During this time, volunteers have is made. library due to medical, physical or other transferred all specimen identification special reasons. Applications can be Council thanks Tondoon Herbarium paper records into an electronic sought by phoning 4976 6400. volunteers for their assistance in database. achieving this milestone. Page 10 Council targets 100 registrations for Garage Sale Trail 2017

Council is aiming for a record number of Gladstone Region registrations in this year's Garage Sale Trail. Council has supported the national Garage Sale Trail initiative for four consecutive years with the event growing to become the largest reuse and community event in the country encouraging residents to reduce, reuse and recycle and divert the amount sent to landfill. In 2016 the Gladstone Region registered its highest number of Garage Sale Trail sellers with 80 individual and group sales listed within our region. This year the Garage Sale Trail will be held on Office National was one of many October 21 and 22 changing from a one-day local suppliers to be awarded Council national event to a weekend of garage sales. contracts in the last financial year. Registering for the Garage Sale Trail is free and participants are provided with selling hints and tips and can access various materials to help Council buys local promote their sale. Garage sale followers can access a regional In the first financial year of Council's This in part is due to project scopes listing of sales and buyers are able to plot their Local Preference Policy more than being outside of local interests or own treasure trail to print and follow, or view $59.3m in tenders and contracts abilities, but Council is also taking on a mobile device. were awarded to local suppliers. action (see articles this spread) to Register your interest for Garage Sale Trail The 2016-17 figure is almost double increase the number of applications it 2017 at www.garagesaletrail.com.au or find that of the previous financial year and receives from able local suppliers. out more by phoning Council's Strategic Community Inclusion Officer Luis Arroyo on represents 75 per cent of the value Council's $59.3m local investment 4976 6300. of all Council contracts awarded via a is estimated to directly support 147 formal tendering process. jobs and indirectly support a further While the remaining 25 per cent was 144 jobs, according to REMPLAN awarded to non-locals, a significant economic profiling, supporting portion of these contracts did not Council's vision for a prosperous receive local applications from which community (see plan and budget Council could choose. highlights on page 8).

Workshop for businesses wanting to tender for Council projects Businesses interested in securing The session will also cover how to Council contracts are encouraged to apply for Council tenders, how tenders attend an information session about the are evaluated and information about organisation's upcoming capital works. Council's local procurement plan. Aimed at designers, contractors and To register interest in attending the suppliers, the Capital Works 2017-18 session email Council at contracts@ Information Session will be held at the gladstone.qld.gov.au Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre on July 27 from 10am to noon. If you miss the session, but would like more information, you may view a copy The information session will provide of the presentation at www.gladstone. attendees with a valuable insight into the qld.gov.au/tenderscontracts or phone Garage Sale Trail 2017 type of capital projects for which Council the Contracts team on 4970 0700. registrations will open online soon. will call for contractors. Page 11 Library card offers access to fun collection of books Your Gladstone Regional Libraries' membership card can help make children's books even more exciting.

By using your library card you can access TumbleBooks, an extensive database of children's e-books for free.

TumbleBooks are animated, talking picture books which use a fun format to promote the joy of reading.

TumbleBooks are created by taking existing picture books and adding animation, sound, music and narration. Mount Larcom thoroughfares get a facelift

The result is an electronic picture book The Mount Larcom town centre streets and Balfour streets. which youngsters can read, or have read upgrade was completed in mid-June. The roundabout's central island sits just to them. Ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie and 50mm above the road surface providing Your Gladstone Regional Libraries' unseasonal wet weather had hampered access to trucks and other large vehicles which would otherwise have trouble membership card makes the books progress but, with the asphalt laid and manoeuvring around the facility. accessible online. the paint dry on the reconfigured line markings, it is now business as usual for The roundabout was introduced in order One of the great features of Tumblebooks store owners, service providers and to address safety concerns raised by the is that children can enjoy these books at residents in the vicinity. close proximity of the Balfour Street and home, on a tablet or a laptop. The project featured the replacement of Gladstone Street exits off King George deteriorated road surfaces, infrastructure Street. It effectively makes library resources and construction of kerb and channel on Council thanks the Mount Larcom available 24 hours a day, as long as you Raglan and King George streets, as well community for its patience and have a library card and can access the as the creation of a roundabout at the cooperation throughout the course of website. intersection of King George, Gladstone the project. The TumbleBooks collection also includes read-along chapter books, national Free WiFi in Library Square geographic videos, non-fiction books, playlists, graphic novels and Math Stories. The grassed deck and comfy seating square by the recent addition of free WiFi. created in Library Square last April for The internet access can be used by TumbleBooks can be accessed via the 7 Day Makeover of the Gladstone anyone at any time by scanning for the Gladstone Regional Libraries website CBD are certainly inviting. 'Library Square FREE' network. at www.gladstonelibraries.qld.gov.au/ But residents and visitors might be Patrons can also recharge their devices at elibrary/ further tempted to the Goondoon Street powerpoints in the square's deck.

Lala Yu-ru Yang enjoys the free WiFi in Library Square, Goondoon Street.

Page 12 Community CALENDAR BRIEFLY

ALL MONTHS  Sport event funding Date Name of the event Location Contact Council is offering grants of up to $3000 to assist the delivery of significant sport 1st & 3rd Tue Council general meeting Gladstone Civic Centre 4970 0700 or active recreation events, to be Every Mon Library card games 10am-noon Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 held between September 1 this year and March 31 next year. Submissions Every Mon Social scrabble, 10.15am-noon Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 are accepted until midnight, July 31 Every Tues Kids happy hour 10.30-11.30am Mount Larcom Library 4975 1205 and more information is available at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/sport-and- Every Tues Library scrabble 11am-noon Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 recreation-funding 1st Tues Library book club Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 2nd Tue Kids time 10am-11.30am (except Miriam Vale Library 4974 6241  Culture shared in Four Yarns school holidays) exhibition as part of Arts Naidoc 4th Tues Tech Savvy Tuesday 10am-noon Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 Stories from local Aboriginal and Torres Every Wed Toddler time 9.30am & 10.30am Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 (except school holidays) Strait Islander people, in conversation Every Wed Story time 10am Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 with young people, Wed & Thurs Story time 11am Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 are accopmpanied by photographic 2nd Wed Bots 'n' Tots 10.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 portraits in Four 2nd Wed Playtime 9.30am-11.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 Yarns: The Link Project. It is one of the many Arts Naidoc 2017 exhibitions on 2nd Wed Toddler time 9.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 display at the Gladstone Regional Art Every Thurs Story time 9.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 Gallery & Museum until August 12. 2nd & 4th Thu Baby Bounce 10.30am (except Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 school holidays)  Free funding workshop Every Fri Story time 10.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 Council's Major Events Advisory Panel (MEAP) will host a free three hour Every Fri Story time 10.30am Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 workshop covering event governance, Every Fri Baby Bounce 11am Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 sustainability and details of how to find funding opportunities on August 30. AUGUST - SEPTEMBER The Events Bootcamp, at the Gladstone Until Aug 12 Arts Naidoc 2017 Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766 Entertainment Convention Centre, is open to all community event organisers. Aug 1 Morning Melodies, 11am, $15 GECC 4972 2822 Secure your seat at www.gladecc.com. Aug 9-Oct 7 Intercity Images: Combined Images Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766 au/meap Aug 16 A Midsummer Night's Dream, $45 GECC 4972 2822  Bin collection days online Aug 18 Arj Barker, 8pm, Adults $49.90 GECC 4972 2822 Council has Aug 18-25 Children's Book Week events All libraries 4970 0700 introduced an easy Aug 25-Sep 23 Our Priceless Past Art Gallery & Museum 4976 6766 way for residents to source their bin Sep 1 Mzaza Children of the Road, $25 GECC 4972 2822 collection day online. Sep 16 Anh Do, 8pm, Adults $59.50 GECC 4972 2822 To do so, visit www. gladstone.qld.gov. Sep 19 Morning Melodies, 11am, $15 GECC 4972 2822 au/OnlineServices, Sep 19 Robotics with Ozobots & Cubelets. Calliope Library 4975 8105 click 'Bin Collection Day', enter your address, then click the links to view Sep 19 Things that are green and grow Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 your property's bin collection day and craft, 9.30-11.30am recycling collection week. Sep 19 Talk Like a Pirate Day Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 Sep 20 Kids Coding 9+yrs Books rqd Gladstone City Library 4976 6400  Standing committee meetings cease Sep 20 Bug Out Craft, 9.30-11.30am Calliope Library 4975 8105 Council standing committees have dissolved and will be replaced with Sep 20 Robotics, 10.30am-12pm Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 councillor portfolios. All Council Sep 20 Messy Craft, 9.30-11.30am Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 decisions will now be made at general council meetings, held at 9am on the Sep 27 Games Day & Robotics, 9.30am Boyne Island Library 4971 9700 first and third Tuesday of every month, Sep 21 Robotics workshops (4) Codeybots Gladstone City Library 4976 6400 reducing the number of meetings the 9+yrs bookings rqd, 9.30am-1pm public, staff and Councillors need to attend. Sep 29 Messy craft & paper fans, 10.30am Agnes Water Library 4902 1501 Page 13 Online applications now available

A wide range of applications can now be conveniently lodged online, including driveways, building, plumbing, development, works on roads and building over sewers. The new service provides a faster, easier way for customers to lodge their applications, anytime, virtually anywhere and on almost any device. This next phase of Online Services streamlines Council's business procedures Tondoon's visitor services volunteers and provides customers with a more share passion for flora and fauna pleasant experience. To make an application, gather PDF copies Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens with the national curriculum. of all necessary documents, such as IDAS volunteers are always keen to share their forms and plans, then visit www.gladstone. passion for flora and fauna. Volunteers also help conduct other Gardens activities and events. qld.gov.au/OnlineServices and click on the The Gardens' Visitor Services volunteers 'Application' icon. host free guided tours of the grounds Volunteer numbers have almost doubled every Thursday from 10am. in the past four months, and Council Secure online payments can be made thanks the Visitor Services volunteers for using Visa, MasterCard, American Express Participants learn the history of Tondoon sharing their knowledge, assisting when or Visa Debit Card. before being taken on an informative tour through all aspects of the tranquil required and providing visitors with great Customers who are registered users can gardens. experiences. track the progress of their application by signing in, clicking on the link next to the Schoolchildren also value the If you would like to become a volunteer, contribution of the volunteers during phone 4971 4439 or visit Council's 'Application Enquiry' icon and going to 'My educational tours and the Lessons in the website at www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ Applications'. Gardens program, which are aligned volunteers

Friends of Gladstone Library donations boost library resources

Book sales organised by the Friends of with games and recently five Codeybot Friends of the Gladstone Library book Gladstone Library have been successful in smart robots were purchased to teach sales are promoted at the Gladstone more ways than one. youngsters the basics of coding. City Library and on Gladstone Regional Libraries' and Gladstone Regional Council's The group of volunteers regularly host Further donations have seen the Facebook pages. book sales at Gladstone City Library recovering of couches and armchairs, a offering the public an opportunity to trolley for the Language Café and DVD Anyone interested in becoming a Friend of purchase from a wide selection of used shelving and new picture book shelves in the Gladstone Library can chat to staff at library resources at bargain prices. the children's section. Gladstone City Library on 4976 6400. Patrons can choose from used magazines, audio books, jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs and books of all types and genres and decide the price to pay. Friends of Gladstone Library then use proceeds from the book sales to purchase more library resources. In recent years funds raised at book sales have enabled the Friends of the Library to make several donations to the Gladstone City Library. The group's efforts have led to the refurbishment of the library's meeting room with new blinds, paint, recovering of chairs and new tables. Three iPads have also been donated to the children's section to replace old computers Friends of Gladstone Library Nita Mehta and Linda Warne help to raise funds at a book sale

Page 14 Sewage back up is largely avoidable More ways to help prevent sewage infiltration

There are other ways you can help to ensure that your residence or business does not experience sewage infiltration during heavy rain events. Connecting roof guttering via a downpipe to the sewerage system can be a major factor in such instances occurring, causing large volumes of water to enter the system which is sometimes too substantial for pipelines to handle. Making sure gutters are connected to the stormwater system and not Flushed and forgotten. of time. the sewerage system will prevent this Too often, the phrase sums up people's Blockages caused by items such as those from happening. approach to inappropriate products being listed above only exacerbate the problem. Another major contributor is the disposed of via their toilets. Many residents may not know that failure of the overflow relief gully The same can be said for other unsuitable pouring fat down the kitchen sink can (ORG), a drain-like fitting located items washed into private sewer lines via also contribute to sewerage entering a outside the home which is designed to release sewage overflow away kitchen sinks and rooftop gutters. household or business. from the interior of homes or The need to keep private sewer lines clear As fat washed down the sink cools it can businesses. of items such as disposable nappies, baby stick to the inside of pipe work, trapping wipes, toilet fresheners, rags, toys and fat Problems can also occur if an ORG toilet paper as it passes through and causing may not be that apparent until heavy rain is not located at a level below the blockages. events occur. lowest floor drain of the adjacent residence or business and the ORG Council receives an increased number of Far from being flushed and forgotten, inappropriate items can linger in sewerage cap should be checked to ensure it reports of sewage backing up into homes comes off easily. and businesses during and after heavy rain, pipelines for long periods of time, possibly many of which are preventable if sewer causing issues the next time heavy rain is Tree roots can also pierce and block lines are kept clear. experienced. piping and residents can help ensure their sewer lines remain optimal by Heavy infiltration of Council's sewer mains The best way to prevent sewage from taking sewer mains and private sewer and pump stations during rain events entering buildings in heavy rain is to ensure line locations into account when results in a large amount of water trying to that sewer lines are not blocked with items planting trees. pass through the system in a short amount that should not be there in the first place.

Planning scheme amendment adopted Council's first major amendment to the Gladstone Region Planning Scheme was adopted in early July following community consultation and State Government approval. All development applications must now be lodged under the amended version of the planning scheme unless a superseded planning scheme request is made within the first 12 months. Applications submitted before the amendment's adoption will remain unaffected. Indigenous milestone celebrated at fun day Terminology within the amended planning scheme has also been aligned with the The 1967 National Referendum, which Council, acting on behalf of hosts State Government's new planning act. gave greater recognition to indigenous Nhulundu Health Services, secured Australians, was celebrated by people $5000 via the Federal Government's The amendment has removed of all backgrounds at the National National Reconciliation Week Grants development application red tape and Reconciliation Week Community Fun Program to ensure attendees could streamlined application processes. Day in May. celebrate the significant milestone. Page 15 SSeniorseniors Week2012017 7 August 19 - 27 Programs available now Bookings commence August 1

Declutter your home, meet your neighbours, Celebrating a Queensland for all ages fundraise or find bargains at thousands of garage sales on one big weekend of selling and shopping. Phone 4976 6300 [email protected]

Free Online Services Access a range of Council services online tax help at any time from almost any device • Animal registrations - new registrations or the updating of details (renew registrations under ‘online payments’) Do you earn around $50,000 or • Secure payments - animal registration renewals, rates, water, less and have simple tax needs? licences, infringements and more ATO trained tax help volunteers are • Lilley’s Beach vehicle permits available to assist you with your tax return. • Lodge non-urgent requests or report an issue - animal nuisances, missed wheelie bins, illegal dumping and more • Make an enquiry or give feedback Appointments available • Rates and property enquiries - view your rates July - October information, notices and payment history (registered users) at the Community Advisory Service • Applications - building and plumbing, development applications, driveways and more 142 Goondoon Street, Gladstone

IMPORTANT: Bookings essential Urgent Council related issues need to be reported via Council’s 24 hour number - 4970 0700. If the matter phone 4976 6300 is life threatening please dial 000.

Create your myGov account and link to the ATO before your Tax Help appointment Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/OnlineServices