BEVERFORDCommunity Plan implementation $9,800

BOUNDARY BENDCommunity Plan implementation $10,500

LAKE BOGACatalina Park playground and café extensions $427,000Lake Boga Caravan Park improvements $20,000Community Plan implementation $34,415

MANANGATANGCommunity Plan implementation $55,995

NYAH DISTRICT Community Plan implementation $31,500

PIANGILCommunity Plan implementation $5,000

ROBINVALERobinvale town levee – design and construction $600,000*Contribution to Robinvale Family Centre $200,000Bromley Road beautification $200,000*Community Plan implementation $36,000War memorial and interpretive walks $75,000

SWAN HILLRiverfront Masterplan implementation $1.1 million*Swan Hill CBD drainage upgrade Stage 2 $808,000Riverwalk enhancement Stage 2 $341,500*Riverwalk sculpture park Stage 3 $350,000*Riverfront Masterplan land purchases $660,000*Ken Harrison Sporting Complex soccer ground lighting $80,000*Alan Garden netball courts shelters $80,000*Street beautification – Brown

Street shopping area $75,000Street beautification – Swan Hill North shopping area $75,000Community Plan implementation $29,000

ULTIMACommunity Plan implementation $30,700

WEMENCommunity Plan implementation $5,000

WOORINENCommunity Plan implementation $40,525

OTHER HIGHLIGHTSSealed road reconstruction, resealing and shoulders $3.2 million*Roads to Recovery funded road works $3.3 millionUnsealed road gravel resheets $1.7 million*Footpaths major repairs and renewal $160,000Bicycle paths construction $60,000*Library collection purchases $120,000Economic Development initiatives $85,000*L2P Learner Driver Program Swan Hill and Robinvale $61,450*Recreation and sporting reserves masterplan $60,000*Upgrade irrigation systems $50,000Playground equipment renewal $48,125Additional street lighting $31,900Disabled kerb crossings in Swan Hill and Robinvale $30,000Bus shelters $20,000Seed funding for regional event $15,000

* Indicates total project cost is conditional on external funding

INSIDE>> LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS >> PENTAL ISLAND ROAD UPGRADE

>> COMMUNITY PLANNING>> CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

FOR THE LATEST COUNCIL UPDATES VISIT WWW.SWANHILL.VIC.GOV.AU

SWAN HILLRURAL CITY NEWS

AUTUMN 2016

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2016/17 COUNCIL’S DRAFT BUDGET OUT FOR COMMENT

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BUDGET AT A GLANCETotal revenue: $56 millionRevenue raised from general rates: $22.6 millionCapital works and assets: $15.9 million

Swan Hill Rural City Council’s 2016/17 draft budget is out now for public comment. The draft budget includes a total of $8.5 million for roads and roads maintenance, up more than 3 per cent compared to 2015/16. This is due to a $0.4 million increase in Federal Roads to Recovery funding and an additional 8 per cent in Council funding.

The draft includes a 2.5 per cent average rate rise, which is consistent with the State Government’s rate capping level, and a moderate 1.7 per cent rise for kerbside rubbish collection charges – in line with the December 2015 Consumer Price Index. There will be no increase in the charge for a 240-litre green waste bin.

While the rate rise is capped at 2.5 per cent, as all properties will be revalued this year, the actual change for individual property owners will vary.

The budget includes a total of $15.9 million in capital works, while an extra $50,000 has been allocated for building maintenance across the municipality. There is also $15,000 in seed funding to attract a new regional event to the municipality.

Works approved through Community

Plans will be funded to $422,000 for towns including Robinvale, Manangatang, Nyah, Lake Boga, Ultima, Boundary Bend and Woorinen.

The budget incorporates savings gained through a number of measures, including the conversion of street lighting to LED lighting saving an additional $15,000 this year. It is estimated that during the next 20 years the conversion program will save $64,000 per year in electricity and operation, maintenance and repair costs. The Heartbeat of the Murray is budgeted to improve the bottom line of the Pioneer Settlement by $76,000 per year, while the installation of solar panels at Council offices is expected to save $20,000 per year.

Mayor Les McPhee welcomed the draft budget and said core Council services had been maintained despite the 2.5 per cent rate capping, introduced by the State Government this year.

“With the introduction of rate capping, combined with ongoing concerns of cost shifting, there was always going to be some challenges to ensure Council was able to strike a good balance in this budget, including maintaining core services and a

positive capital works program,” Cr McPhee said.

“However despi te these challenges, Council’s commitment to maintaining services through efficiency and strong financial management has resulted in a responsible budget that includes some good community projects.”

Copies of the draft budget are available from www.swanhill.vic.gov.au and Council offices in Swan Hill and Robinvale.

A community consultation session was recently held in Robinvale to further explain the draft budget, and a Swan Hill consultation session is scheduled for Monday, 16 May. Community members are also encouraged to provide written feedback to Council.

Written submissions to the draft budget close on Monday, 6 June at 4pm. A Special Council Meeting to receive and hear submissions will be held on Tuesday, 14 June. A meeting to amend or adopt the draft budget will then be held on Tuesday, 21 June.

Further details regarding the Special Council Meetings will be advertised closer to meeting dates.

ROADS REVAMPED: $3.2 million* to be spent on sealed road reconstruction, resealing and shoulders around the municipality.

BEAUTIFYING BROMELY ROAD: Projects from the Bromley Road Masterplan.

TAKING SHELTER: Two more bus shelters will be installed around Swan Hill, making six in total.

DRAIN AWAY: McCallum Street CBD drainage upgrades from NAB to railway tracks.

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 20162

Swan Hill Rural City Council and/or its employees do not guarantee that this publication is without 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.

Central Ward

CR GREG CRUICKSHANK0419 754 174greg.cruickshank@swanhill.vic.gov.au

This time of year is a great time for visitors and already we have seen strong visitation to the region. This is evident from the number of people attending the Heartbeat of the Murray laser light show. If you haven’t seen it yet make a booking soon and get yourself down to the Pioneer Settlement to see it. It truly is spectacular.

The Food and Wine Festival and Harmony Day are two other events that are highlights of autumn in Swan Hill. Again these were amazing events, so congratulations to all involved. If I had a dollar for every time I have heard visitors comment about Swan Hill recently, I would surely be a rich man.

It makes me happy to hear these comments because it means we as a community are doing things right. We really do live in a special place and if we keep reminding ourselves of this, then other people will see it that way too.

CR LES MCPHEE Mayor0427 319 394 les.mcphee@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Council is pleased to be able to deliver a responsible draft budget that ensures core Council services are maintained and delivered to our residents and ratepayers right across the municipality.

As mentioned in this edition of the community newsletter, Council has been able to strike a good balance in the budget despite some significant challenges. This includes the introduction of rate capping and ongoing concerns of cost shifting from the state to Local Government.

In addition to continuing to deliver core services, the budget includes $15.9 million in capital

works, $8.5 million in roads and roads maintenance and some positive community projects. You can read a summary of this year’s budget highlights on the front of this newsletter.

With the draft budget now out for public comment, I encourage our residents and ratepayers to provide their written feedback by 6 June, and attend the Special Council Meeting on 14 June.

I’d like to welcome Council’s Chief Executive Officer John McLinden who started in the role in late March. Although he has only been here a short while, John’s already been

busy getting to know staff and Council as well as our communities across the municipality. John is keen to continue to visit and meet people throughout the region and become part of the community. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank Ian Couper who acted in the role of Chief Executive Officer from November while the recruitment process was underway and until John’s arrival in March.

Finally, as you may already know, Local Government elections will be held later this year in October. If you’re a resident of Swan Hill Rural City Council, I encourage you

to consider standing for Council. As a Councillor you have an opportunity to not only represent the community, but to provide input into the future direction of the Swan Hill municipality.

General information about the Local Government elections, including an election timetable is included in this edition of the community newsletter. You can also visit the Victorian Electoral Commission’s website (vec.vic.gov.au) which provides more information about nominating as a candidate, including being eligible to stand for election.

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS

A WORD FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

>> 17 May at Swan Hill Town Hall >> 28 June at Swan Hill Town Hall >> 19 July at Swan Hill Town Hall >> 16 August at Robinvale Community Centre

Council meetings are generally held at 2pm.

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. Visit www.swanhill.vic.gov.au for details or check local media.

Central Ward

CR JIM CROWE0418 181 656jim.crowe@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Central Ward

CR JESSIE KILEY0417 755 414jessie.kiley@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Murray Mallee Ward

CR GARY NORTON0428 398 981gary.norton@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Central Ward

CR MICHAEL ADAMSON0400 143 100michael.adamson@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Robinvale Ward

CR JOHN KATISDeputy Mayor0459 077 532john.katis@swanhill.vic.gov.au

CONTACT COUNCIL

WWW.SWANHILL.VIC.GOV.AUEmail : counci l@swanhi l l .vic.gov.auPO Box 488, Swan Hi l l VIC 3585

Swan Hill Business Centre 45 Splatt Street Swan Hill VIC 3585 Phone 5036 2333, Fax 5036 2340Robinvale Resource Centre 68-72 Herbert Street Robinvale VIC 3549 Phone 5051 8000, Fax 5051 8010Both offices are open Monday to Friday 8.30am until 5pm.

Swan Hill Rural City Council and/or its employees do not guarantee that this publication is without 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.

I would like to start by congratulating the Swan Hill RSL for once again providing us with such a touching and stirring ANZAC Day service.

ANZAC Day continues to be an important commemoration, allowing us to remember those who sacrificed so much and enabling us to have the freedoms we enjoy today – something as a nation we should never forget.

What’s more, it was great to see all the young people involved in ANZAC Day and to see the children paying their respects. By having our young people involved in ANZAC Day we are ensuring that this important tradition will carry on for generations to come.

I would also like to take this opportunity to advise the community that I will be taking a short leave of absence from my Councillor duties as my husband and I have recently become parents to a beautiful baby boy. Thank you to everyone for their support and well wishes.

The Swan Hill region is already home to some great events, including Harmony Day, the Australian Day Breakfast, Market Day, Swan Hill Show, the Food and Wine Festival as well as a number of sporting days and weekends, just to name a few.

I’m pleased to be involved in the planning stages of another event that is sure to be a major highlight for 2016. In November Swan Hill’s motor sporting clubs will come together and host a Festival of Motorsports weekend. The festival will be based at the Chisholm Reserve Sporting Complex, but will also include activities and shows around Swan Hill.

From go karts and motor bikes, to drag racing and 4WDs, it’s been great to see so many clubs coming together to work on promoting what the world of motorsports can offer. This event will be the first of its kind for Swan Hill and with such a wide variety of activities there will be something for everyone.

Firstly, I would like to express a warm welcome to Council’s recently appointed CEO Mr John McLinden. John has hit the ground running and has already made a positive impact on the organisation. I look forward to working closely with John to continue to advance and improve our region.

It’s also been fantastic to hear of the continued success of the Heartbeat of the Murray laser light show. It proved to be a huge Easter and school holiday attraction and I encourage anyone who hasn’t seen this incredible production to do so.

With this success, and the recent completion of a number of major projects and continued upgrades to the Swan Hill Riverfront, it’s really great to see the level of development and growth taking place in our region. It gives me a real sense of pride to see the direction that the municipality is travelling in and eager to see what else we can accomplish.

I would like to thank and commend the Nyah District Action Group and the Nyah community for the hard work and time they put in to an EOI for a grant with Regional Arts Victoria for a Small Town Transformation. Although we weren’t successful this time, there were some great ideas that came out through the development of the application that everyone can be very proud of. I know Regional Arts Victoria is keen to keep this partnership going and hopefully there will be future grant application opportunities we can take advantage of and get some of these identified projects off the ground.

I would also like to encourage farmers, landholders and residents to get a copy of the Draft Rural Land Use Strategy and give Council feedback. Get to an information session if you can, and let us know how you would like to see farming zoned land used and developed in the future.

I would once again like to thank and congratulate the Robinvale Ski 80 Committee for another extremely well run event. It was fantastic to see so many people in the Robinvale area and the competition was fantastic. It is a real economy boost for our town and this could not happen without the committee’s dedication.

I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage Robinvale community members to get involved and provide feedback on the recently released Draft Rural Land Use Strategy. The draft is a first for our municipality and includes recommendations for a rural residential candidate area in Robinvale. This could result in possible rezoning of land to facilitate future rural housing opportunities. Hopefully you can attend the information session, or if not, make an appointment to see Council staff in Robinvale on 18 May to ask any further questions.

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 3

2016 CENSUS NOW HIRING

RAILING AHEAD

Census night is 9 August 2016 and the Australian Bureau Statistics (ABS) is looking to hire Field Officers to assist in the collection of data around the Swan Hill Region.

Census data supports local services and infrastructure, from health and education to housing and transport.

Council’s Director Cultural and Community Development Bruce Myers said these jobs are a great way to give back to the community.

“The ABS is looking for good communicators and managers who know their community well,” Mr Myers said.

“Also, this census will be a little different to previous collections, taking a ‘digital-first’ first approach (i.e. majority online).

“This means field staff will be using computers and tablets, and need to be a bit tech-savvy.”

For more information on these positions, or to apply, visit www.abs.gov.au/careers.

Swan Hill Rural City Council has welcomed the announcement from the Federal Government that it will provide $220 million towards the Murray Basin Rail freight upgrade, matching the Victorian Government’s funding for the project.

Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les McPhee said the announcement would ensure freight within the Murray region would be returned to rail.

“This will improve the efficiency of rail freight within the Murray Basin, which then helps improve the productivity of commodity-based businesses in Northern Victoria and Southern New South Wales,” Cr McPhee said.

“Additionally, by increasing the efficiency of freight movement within the region it takes a significant proportion of heavy freight off the road network, improving road safety.

“It’s great to see all levels of government working together to deliver this critical

infrastructure for the betterment of communities across the Murray region.”

The Central Murray Regional Transport Forum, a consortium of councils across the Central Murray region from Victoria and New South Wales, also welcomed the funding.

Central Murray Regional Transport Forum Chairman Cr Greg Cruickshank congratulated the government on its foresight in investing in the project.

“This project, which will see gauge standardisation and track strengthening works from Mildura to Maryborough, is integral to the future prosperity of the Central Murray region,” Cr Cruickshank said.

“The announcement is very much welcomed by the transport forum and we congratulate both the Victorian and Federal Governments in working together to bring this important infrastructure to the region.”

ON TRACK: Council has welcomed funding to improve rail freight movement in the region.

A MESSAGEFROM THE CEO

As I write this column I’ve been in the chair as Chief Executive Officer of the Swan Hill Rural City Council for only a short time.

I’ve come to Swan Hill having worked for the Shire of Loddon for the past 23 years - with the last 10 of those years serving as Chief Executive Officer. My wife Therese and I are in the process of moving from

Serpentine to Swan Hill and will soon take up permanent residence.

In these first few weeks I have been impressed with the level of passion displayed by the Councillors of Swan Hill and the depth of involvement they have in the many community groups that make up this vibrant city. I’ve been greeted as I walked in the front doors of Council offices by enthusiastic, professional and dedicated staff and I have a good feel 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 business people have contributed much to making this city, and its surrounding towns the great places that they are. As Chief Executive Officer I will do my utmost to ensure the legacy of those that have come before us is honoured and that we do the very best we can to continue to grow this great city.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS If you are a resident aged 18 years or over and on the State electoral roll for your present address or own property in the municipality, you are required to vote in upcoming Swan Hill Rural City Council elections.

Voting is compulsory and the Victorian Electoral Commission will fine eligible residents who fail to lodge their vote. Only non-resident voters and voters aged 70 years or over are not obliged to vote at local council elections.

Voters in the Swan Hill (Central) Ward will elect four Councillors, while voters in the Lakes, Murray Mallee and Robinvale wards will elect one Councillor for each area.

Voting will be conducted via postal ballots and residents who are listed on the electoral roll have one vote only, no matter how many properties they may own within the municipality.

All postal votes must be received by 21 October 2016.

Swan Hill Rural City Council urges residents to ensure that they are correctly enrolled. Enrolment forms from the Victorian Electoral Commission can be obtained from the Swan Hill Rural City Council Offices in Splatt Street Swan Hill. Alternatively residents can download materials, including information in a range of languages and an Auslan video guide to voting from www.vec.vic.gov.au.

In you requi re more in format ion about the elections please telephone the Victorian Electoral Commission on 13 18 32, or visit www.vec.vic.gov.au.

THINKING ABOUT STANDING FOR COUNCIL? Swan Hill municipality residents thinking about standing for Council elections will have the chance to attend information sessions to gain an insight into the role.

Municipal Association Victoria and Swan Hill Rural City Council will hold election information sessions around September this year for residents thinking about standing for Council. Details of these sessions will be released closer to the session dates.

Swan Hill Rural City Council Chief Executive Officer John McLinden said prospective candidates attending the sessions would be able to find out what was involved before nominating.

“Deciding to stand for Council is a quite a big decision,” Mr McLinden said.

“These information sessions will help prospective candidates learn more about being a Councillor, what the role entails, the time involved and what responsibilities they might take on as part of that role.”

A dedicated website – www.standforcouncil.com.au – has also been launched through the Municipal Association of Victoria, where candidates can check their eligibility to stand for Council and find about more about the day-to-day activities of a Councillor.

The election will be conducted via post between 6 and 21 October.

Candidates must nominate by 12 noon on Tuesday, 20 September.

COUNCIL ELECTIONS TIMETABLETIME EVENT

4pm Friday, 26 August 2016

Entitlement datePeople must be on the State or local council roll by this date to be eligible to vote at the election.

12 noon Tuesday, 20 September 2016

Close of nominationsAnyone wishing to stand as a candidate must nominate by 12 noon.

Between Tuesday, 4 and Thursday, 6 October 2016

Ballot packs are distributed (postal elections)Ballot packs are distributed via post to every enrolled person in a random order over three days. No more than 35 per cent of the ballot packs can be distributed on any one day.

6pm Friday, 21 October 2016 (1 day before election day)

Close of voting (postal elections) In postal elections, ballot papers must be received by the VEC by 6pm on the day before election day.

Saturday, 22 October 2016 (Election day)

Vote counting.

Source: vec.vic.gov.au

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 20164

PENTAL ISLAND ROAD WORKS UNDERWAY

DITCH WITH DETOX

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

DRAG STRIP REVS UP

Local residents are being urged to ‘Detox Your Home’ – a free and easy-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, 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 10am to 1pm. Simply turn up with your unwanted chemicals – no need to book.

Detox Your Home is administered by Sustainability Victoria in partnership with local governments and is funded by the Victorian landfill levy. The products collected are recycled for recovery and diverted from landfill.

For more information and for a full list of what can and can’t be

accepted visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome, call 1300

363 744 or contact Council’s Waste Management Unit on 5036 2401.

Safety has been enhanced at pedestrian crossings in Campbell Street with the replacement of temporary rubber speed humps with raised asphalt pavement.

Pedestrian crossing works have been completed at the southern end of Campbell Street at Jane Eliza and Quo Vadis, and at the northern end near the Commercial Hotel.

The works are similar to those completed at the pedestrian crossing in Beveridge Street adjacent to Coles supermarket.

The upgrades have been made possible thanks to funding from the State Government’s Traffic Accident Commission Local Government Grant for Small-scale Infrastructure Program and Council.

Last month Victorian Attorney General Martin Pakula visited Boundary Bend to announce funding towards the Boosting Boundary Bend project.

This joint-funded project with Council will not only enhance the functionality and aesthetic landscape of Boundary Bend, but provide a stronger connection with the township and its major asset - the Murray River.

The upgrades will encourage more residents and tourists to flow between the two areas, which will support greater economic activity throughout the town.

The project includes:• A walking trail along the river linking the

north and south of the town and the two shopping venues.

• Better signage indicating the town’s services.

• An entrance statement for the community park and playground to entice visitors off the highway.

• A dump point and lit toilets to attract travellers.

• Formalised car park and landscaping work.Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les

McPhee said “the project strongly supported 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.”

This project has been made possible thanks to funding from the State Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund and Council.

Council has started works on an $800,000 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 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 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 during wet weather conditions.

The works are anticipated to be finished in May, weather permitting.

THE FINAL LINK: The only remaining section of gravel on Pental Island Road will now be fully reconstructed and sealed.

SAFETY FIRST: Pedestrian crossing upgrades have been completed in Campbell Street.

ANDRA INSPECTION: ANDRA Competition Manager Brett Stevens and Swan Hill Drag Racing Club's Lucas Woodburn (Vice President) and

Gary Rovere (President) at the most recent ANDRA inspection.

BOOST FOR BOUNDARY

BENDCouncil has finished the 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 and drainage.

The major infrastructure of the drag strip was recently inspected by the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA), who were impressed overall with the works so far.

The drag racing club will undertake fencing, landscaping and other works prior to a final ANDRA inspection for national level accreditation. Upon accreditation, it will be the fourth nationally-accredited drag racing strip in Australia.

The project, which received funding from the State Government and Council, has been made possible due to the generosity and in-kind support from the Swan Hill Drag Racing Club, local contractors, businesses and volunteers. Around $100,000 of in-kind work has been provided to the project, on top of local businesses donating goods and services at cost price.

The Chisholm Reserve drag strip features the longest concrete racing surface in the country and is the only temperature-controlled drag strip in the Southern Hemisphere. At its peak, the facility is estimated to bring around 20,000 visitors annually into our region.

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 5

Works have started on Stage 1 to upgrade and improve the safety of River Road in Swan Hill.

Stage 1 of the upgrade will see a complete reconstruction of the road between Arnoldt Street and Douglas Road, including widening the section from 3.9 metres to 6.2 metres. Minor traffic calming devices will also be installed at the intersection of River Road and Arnoldt Street.

Council held an open house information session on 22 March, where community members viewed the plans and spoke with staff regarding the upgrades and possible future works.

“River Road has been identif ied as a safety concern for both drivers and pedestrians, with reports of an alarming number of motorists not obeying the speed restrictions in place,” Council’s Acting Director Infrastructure Rosanne Kava said.

“The upgrades will address a number of safety issues, including widening the road, increasing visibility and installing minor traffic calming devices in appropriate locations to impede speeding.”

Ms Kava added that once Stage 1 upgrades are completed, Council would re-evaluate the safety of the area to determine

if further safety improvements were required, including the possibility of further works along Palaroo Street.

Road closures will be in place during the upgrade, however local access for residents will be maintained. Council apologies for any inconvenience and urges motorists to exercise caution when driving through the area.

The River Road upgrade plans are avai lable f rom Counci l ’s websi te www.swanhill.vic.gov.au.

For more information on the upgrades, contact Council’s Engineering

Department on 5036 2324.

SWAN HILL LANDFILLTRANSFORMED

RIVER ROAD SAFETY UPGRADE

LAKE BOGA CATALINA ACTIVATIONRIVER ROAD REMEDY: 1.45km of River

Road will be fully reconstructed and widened in a bid to improve safety.

AVIATION ACTIVATION: Victorian Attorney General Martin Pakula (centre) pictured with museum volunteer Les Bond, Lake Boga Lions Club Vice President Ian Nancarrow, Mayor

Les McPhee and Lake Boga Inc President Cameron Smits.

WASTE WISE: Mayor Les McPhee and Sustainability Victoria's Director Waste and Resource Recovery Programs Jenny Pickles drop the first bag of waste

into the new transfer station bins.

WHAT CAN I DROP OFF FOR FREE?There are a number of recyclable items that you can drop off for free at the Swan Hill and rural landfills including: • Scrap metal • Small rubble (bricks,

crushed concrete, etc.) • Used motor oil • Clean fill • Gas cylinders • Chemical containers (DrumMUSTER)• White goods • Televisions, computer monitors and

accessories • Domestic, clean uncontaminated

timber• Cardboard, paper• Aluminium cans, steel cans, plastic

drink/milk bottles and assorted plastic containers

• Clean grass clippings• Used cooking oil

To save money, make sure you sort your load into recyclables and non-recyclables – that way you don’t have to pay for the whole load to go to the landfill.The Big Green Shed at the Swan Hill Landfill is another great place to drop off those unwanted items from around your home. The Big Green Shed redirects your unwanted/reusable items, originally meant for the landfill and resells them for a bargain price – you’ll be amazed at what you might find! The Big Green Shed accepts a variety of materials in reasonable condition such as:• Timber, doors, window frames• Tiles, pavers and bricks• Furniture and household items• Bric-a-brac• Books, tapes and albums• Bikes, trikes, scooters

WORKS UPDATEOur works teams and contractors have been busy completing these projects in the past few months…Road works>> Reconstructed Lake Boga - Ultima

Road - 2.2km>> Reconstructed Culgoa - Ultima Road

- 1.8km>> Resheeted Aerodrome Road, Swan Hill

- 900 metres>> Resheeted McFarlane Road, Swan Hill

- 300 metres>> Resheeted Rosewood Road, Lake

Boga - 1.4km>> Reconstructed Annuello Wemen Road,

Wemen - 3.2km>> Started reconstructing 6km of Pental

Island Road >> Started reconstructing 1.45km of River

Road, Swan Hill Projects>> Constructed two raised pedestrian

crossings in Campbell Street>> Contractor has resealed around 270,000

sqm of sealed roads throughout the municipality

>> Constructed car park along Monash Drive near Riverside Park

Coming up>> Upgrade Lake Boga irrigation system

A new transfer station at the Swan Hill Landfill has been officially unveiled, with the aim of improving site layout and providing more efficient solutions to resource recovery and sorting waste.

Thanks to funding from Sustainability Victoria and Council, the new transfer station features four large skip bin bays and hardstand area, new safety fencing and gates, retaining walls and improved road infrastructure.

A new weighbridge office was also constructed, as well upgrades to the entrance road and landscaping works.

Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les

McPhee said the transfer station was another great step in the continued efforts of diverting recyclable waste from the landfill.

“These upgrades make it even easier for the public to correctly sort and dispose of waste, making a trip to the landfill a quick and easy experience,” Cr McPhee said.

“By creating a contained customer and business area, we have eliminated the need for community members to drive to the open cells – which is a big safety improvement.”

The $400,000 project was made possible through funding from Sustainability Victoria ($190,000) and Council.

Thanks to funding from the State Government, locals and visitors to Lake Boga will soon benefit from an exciting new development at the Catalina Park.

The Lake Boga Catalina Activation Project will see a highly anticipated café and wine bar incorporated into the existing Flying Boat Museum.

Infrastructural improvements will also be made to the immediate foreshore of the lake, further enhancing the adjacent community park, as well as the construction of an aquatic themed adventure park and removal of obsolete infrastructure that currently interferes with the view of the lake.

Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Les McPhee said the announcement of this generous funding has ensured that the Lake Boga Catalina Park project will go ahead.

"This significant project, which is a priority for Swan Hill Council, will ensure our lakeside area will not only be enhanced, but will provide an important link to the historic Catalina Flying Boat Museum,” Cr McPhee said.

"This means current and future generations, as well as visitors to the region, will be able to learn about the fundamental role of Lake Boga during World War II, while also enjoying the aesthetic quality of our beautiful lakeside.

“Not only will this development be another draw card for visitors to our region, it will also create six new permanent and 13 new casual jobs in the hospitality industry.”

This project has been made possible thanks to funding from the State Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, Council and the Lake Boga Lion’s Club.

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 20166

Swan Hill Rural City Council has released the Draft Rural Land Use Strategy and is encouraging community members to get involved and provide feedback.

The Draft Strategy, the first of its kind for our region, considers all land currently in the Farming Zone and provides recommendations that are intended to guide land use and development in rural areas.

Committed to informing our community members, Council has hosted a number of information sessions with local community groups throughout the exhibition period to explain the proposed changes.

To ensure community members have a full understanding of the proposed strategy, Council staff will also be available by appointment on the following dates to answer any further questions:

• Swan Hill - Monday,16 May at Council’s Splatt Street office

• Robinvale - Wednesday, 18 May at the Robinvale Resource Centre

All submissions must be received by close of business Tuesday, 31 May 2016.

Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and can be sent via post at PO Box 488, Swan Hill, 3585, emailed to council@swanhill.vic.gov.au, faxed to 5036 2430 or in person at Council’s offices in Splatt Street, Swan Hill and Herbert Street, Robinvale.

Visit council’s website at www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/draft-RLUS to download a copy of the draft strategy, find out more about the information sessions, access feedback forms or provide feedback via an online survey.

For more information contact Council’s Planning Department on 5036 2407.

ROBINVALECouncil’s Community Development team was absolutely thrilled with the level of interest and engagement shown in Robinvale for the review of their community plan.

With almost 200 people providing feedback to La Trobe University students and Council officers, a draft plan has been prepared and presented to Council.

The draft has been broken down into three key areas – Access to Services, Promoting Participation and Building Infrastructure. Under each key area is a list of priority areas and corresponding actions or projects that will help support and improve current services or functions.

The next stepsCouncil is currently undertaking focus

group sessions with Council’s Aboriginal Community Planning Officer and Aboriginal Elders in Robinvale to identify synergies with other current plans or those currently in development (this consultation will identify any projects that appear in both plans).

Robinvale Euston Business Association (REBA) has also reported back on their priorities, and will present a draft implementation plan to take to the community for approval.

Keep an eye out for the upcoming community meeting to adopt the reviewed community plan and initial implementation.

MANANGATANGChildren’s seating will be installed in Lowan

Park in May. Stage 1 of the Walking Path project will also be underway very soon, providing safe pedestrian access from the Community Centre to the Pool.

NYAHStage 1 of the AN Lewis Park in Nyah

makeover is currently underway thanks to the Nyah District Action Group. The group allocated

$13,000 to the upgrades, which will include the installation of two wooden sculptures.

The sculptures will be carved from Cedar or Cyprus wood using a chainsaw and will pay tribute to two of the park’s namesakes – AN Lewis and William Lewis.

JAYCEE PARK, SWAN HILL Construction has started on the new Meeting

Place in Jaycee Park. It is hoped the project will be finished by the end of June, with community concept planning for the whole park to follow after the Meeting Place works are completed.

WOORINENThe Woorinen District Progress Association

unanimously voted for $15,000 of their community planning budget to go towards the rebuilding of the Woorinen Football Netball Club facility.

A Woorinen Community Plan review meeting will also take place on Wednesday, 18 May to discuss the plan’s review.

For more information or to be involved with community planning in your town, contact

Council’s Community Planning Officer Chris Rowlands on 5036 2333 or email chris.

rowlands@swanhill.vic.gov.au.

The ambient lighting of trees along the Swan Hill riverfront has added yet another dimension to the popular area.

Stretching from the boat ramp through to Riverside Park, the lighting emphasises the natural beauty of the area and complements the Heartbeat of the Murray Experience by leading visitors to the Pioneer Settlement.

The lights can be modified to suit different themes, such as pink to promote awareness of the Cancer Council’s Pink Ribbon campaign.

The Council-managed works were part of the Swan Hill Lighting Strategy and were completed by local contractor Laser Electrical. Council engaged Pollen Studio to develop the lighting strategy, which won a planning award at the 2015 Australian Institute of Landscape Architecture (AILA) Awards for Victoria.

The lighting was funded through the Public Safety Infrastructure Fund to improve community surveillance and safety in the area. Council also provided a contribution towards the riverfront development.

DRAFT RURAL LAND USE STRATEGY CONSULTATION CONTINUES

COMMUNITY PLANNING UPDATE

LIGHTING THE RIVERFRONT

CLUB CONTRIBUTION: Woorinen District Progress Association President Lisa Ashdown presenting Woorinen Football Netball Club President Dean Morpeth with a $15,000 contribution.

NATURAL BEAUTY: The installation of lighting has added yet another dimension to the Swan Hill riverfront.

ACCESS TO SERVICES • Health and Medical Services• Agriculture, Retail and Commercial

Enterprise• Telecommunications

PROMOTING PARTICIPATION• Leadership and Governance• Diversity and Inclusion• Education and Training

BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE• Housing• Recreation, Cultural Arts and Tourism• Built Environment

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 2016 7

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

LIGHTS, FOOTY, ACTION!

A WORD WITH WAL

A huge international food market, fabulous 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.

Lighting works at the Swan Hill Showgrounds are complete, with the installation of four new 33-metre light towers, significantly improving visibility at night.

Final touches to the works, including power supply connection, were finished in March.

An official “opening” was held on the 30 April, during half time at the Swan Hill vs Woorinen night time football match under the glow of the lights.

As well as improving safety, the upgrades mean the showgrounds can be used for events such as AFL Victoria competitions, local night fixtures, night cricket training and interschool

sports competitions.Swan Hill Football Netball Club President

Alistair Ward said the first home game under lights went extremely well.

“We had a larger crowd than normal, which was fantastic,” Mr Ward said

“The new lights have also really helped during training, with more visibility allowing for further skills development.

“These upgrades are definitely a great new asset for the club and will really benefit the community.”

This project was made possible thanks to funding from the State Government and Council.

You’ll never find Mobile Library Operator Wal St Clair in the same place for long, as he travels around the Swan Hill and neighbouring municipalities, providing book borrowing services to our smaller rural towns.

Wal has been driving the Mobile Library for 18 years, and thinks the best part about his job is people.

“The people you meet are absolutely amazing,” Wal said.

“I’ve met people from all over the world

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 Bendigo. It was fantastic.”

Further highlighting his love and dedication to his job, Wal said he really enjoys getting to know his regular customers.

“I think customer service is really important. I make a big effort to learn and remember names, and when a person comes in a couple of time to borrow books I pick up on their reading interests and can then put books aside that I think they’ll like.”

A new stop on the Mobile Library route means that Wal now visits the Nyah West Kindergarten.

Not content with just providing a book borrowing service, Wal jumps out of the truck and sits down with the kinder students and reads them a story or two.

“I really get a buzz out of reading to the kids. It’s great seeing them get excited and interested in a story, and my hope is that this

excitement will encourage them to get into reading themselves.”

Covering almost 1,000km a week in the Mobile Library, come rain, hail (or station wagon!), Wal makes sure he doesn’t miss a stop.

“On the rare occasion the truck has had to go in for repairs. So when that’s the case, I’ll load up a station wagon and get books to the community that way – even when it’s pouring rain.

“I think reading is such a vital part of life

and I want as many people to have access to books as possible.

“It’s something that can bring all ages, genders, races together, and that’s what the job is about for me.

“This is the best job in the world. It really is.”

For more information on the Mobile Library, including timetables, visit Council’s website at www.library.swanhill.vic.gov.au or contact the

library on 5036 2480.

WAL’S WAGON: Wal St Clair – Mobile Library Operator extraordinaire delivers

books under all circumstances.

SHOWGROUNDS LIGHT UP: Four new towers have been lighting up the Swan Hill Showgrounds since April.

FLOWER POWER: The Giant Harmony Garden included more than 1,000 flowers made by around 400 community members.

STORY TIME: A stop at the Nyah West Kindergarten always includes a story book or two.

NATIONAL PRINT AND DRAWING AWARDS

WHAT’S ONMAY Sat 7 May – Wed 18 May SWAN HILL BOWLS CLUB 50TH ANNUAL AUTUMN CARNIVAL, Swan Hill Bowls Club. Contact 5032 4083.

Fri 13 May A NIGHT ON THE GREEN, Barefoot Beauty and Wellness, Swan Hill. Pack your picnic and enjoy a night of local talent including the Ukulele Club, Shannon Bishop and other great local artists. For more information contact Barefoot Beauty and Wellness on 5032 3681.

Sat 14 May SONIC SPEEDWAY SWAN HILL RACING CLUB, Sea Lake - Ultima Road, Swan Hill. Sonic Rumble 150 Enduro, Support Class Juniors. Racing starts from 1pm.

Sat 14 - Sun 15 May PRINT AND DRAWING ACQUISITIVE AWARDS, Swan Hill Art Gallery. For further information contact the Gallery 5036 2430.

Sun 15 May DEATH BY SOPRANO, Swan Hill Town Hall. Death by Soprano satirically catalogues operatic death scenes in an A-Z, cabaret romp, created

with a great love of opera, although it also embraces a loving irreverence for her occasionally over-inflated ego. To book call 1800 625 373 or online at www.swanhillonline.com.

Sun 15 May RSPCA MILLIONS PAWS WALK, Swan Hill Riverside Park. 9am start. Contact 0439 905 888.

JUNEThurs 2 – Sat 18 June GREASE THE MUSICAL, Swan Hill Theatre Group. Tickets on sale now at Swan Hill Region Information Centre, Cnr Curlewis and McCrae Street, 1800 625 373 or online at www.swanhillonline.com.

Fri 10 – Sun 12 June MURRAY DOWNS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

SWAN HILL JUNE RACING CARNIVAL, Swan Hill Racecourse.

Sun 12 June SONIC SPEEDWAY SWAN HILL RACING CLUB, Sea Lake - Ultima Road, Swan Hill. Super Rods, Support Classes VSC Juniors, Standard Saloons, VSC Open Ladies, Styreet Stocks, VSC Formula’s and V8 Super Modifieds.

JULYSat 16 July - Sun 17 July ITALIAN FESTA, Italian Social Club, Yana Street Swan Hill. Annual Festa Della Madonna. Come along for delicious food, dancing, children’s and family activities and fireworks.

Sun 24 July NYAH HARNESS RACING, Swan Hill Racecourse.

AUGUSTWed 3 – Thurs 4 August MALLEE MACHINERY FIELD DAYS, Sunraysia Highway, Speed. 2km south of Speed from 8.30am to 5pm

WHAT ELSE?There are also regular PYAP CRUISES (weekdays 2.30pm; weekends, Victorian school holidays and public holidays 10.30am and 2.30pm) and Sound and Light tours at the Pioneer Settlement. Call 5036 2410 for details.

And don’t forget STORYTIME each week at the Swan Hill Regional Library for the kids. Saturday Story Time 11am, Wednesday Story Time 10.30am, Thursday Baby Rhyme time 10.30am. Call 5036 2480 for details.

MARKETS1st Sat of the month MURRABIT MARKET (about 45km south east of Swan Hill), 8.30am to 1pm. Contact 5457 2205.

1st Sun of the month SWAN HILL FARMERS MARKET, Riverside Park Swan Hill. 9am to 1pm. Contact 0456 531 606.

2nd Sat of the month NYAH LIONS CLUB MARKET, Nyah Trotting Complex (24km north of Swan Hill), 9am to 1pm. Contact 5030 2533 or 5030 2619.

2nd Sat of the month ROBINVALE COUNTRY MARKET, Caix Square, Robinvale, 8.30am to 12.30pm. Contact 5026 3095.

3rd Sat of the month ANGLICAN BOOT SALE MARKET, Anglican Function Centre, Splatt Street, Swan Hill, 9am to 12pm. Contact 5032 2506 or 5032 3765.

3rd Sun of the month ROTARY CLUB OF SWAN HILL MARKET, railway car park, Curlewis Street, Swan Hill, 9am to 1pm. Entry by gold coin donation. Contact 5032 2164.

>> LOOK ING FOR SOMETH ING MORE? This is just a taste of the events happening across the Swan Hill and Robinvale regions from the middle of December to the end of March taken from swanhillonline.com. There are other regular community events listed at swanhillonline.com including euchre, bingo, community group meetings and more.

>> GET A FREE EVENT L IST INGAnyone can have their event uploaded to the swanhillonline.com site FREE!Visit swanhillonline.com, go to the events calendar and follow the Log In instructions at the bottom of the page.Your event will be confirmed by a member of the Swan Hill Region Information Centre team in no time and be up on the web for everyone to see.

SWAN HILL RURAL CITY COUNCIL NEWS | AUTUMN 20168

Based on the books written by Hazel Edwards and illustrated by Deborah Niland, HIPPO! HIPPO! is a new musical adventure for children and families.

Featuring the imaginary and loveable pink hippopotamus, it tells the story of Hippo, an imaginary friend of a young girl. Hippo helps the girl to allay her fears and gain confidence in her early childhood years.

HIPPO! HIPPO! is based on the phenomenally successful children’s classic There’s a Hippopotamus on Our Roof Eating Cake, first published in 1980. The internationally-acclaimed book series has become one of Australia’s most loved

children’s publications. The story has been adapted for stage

by Garry Ginivan and Mark Jones. Garry is an award-winning producer of children’s musical theatre including The Eggscellent Adventures of Stripey the Emu Chick! Wombat Stew, Possum Magic and My Grandma lived in Gouligulch.

Joyful and brimming with childhood wonder, HIPPO! HIPPO! will make you laugh and maybe even make you cry, but most of all, it is guaranteed to lift your spirits in a big and unbeatable way!

Book through the Swan Hill Region Information Centre in person or phone: 5036

2444, online at www.swanhillonline.com or swanhillperformingarts.com.au.

Tickets can also be purchased 30 minutes prior to the performance at the Swan Hill Town Hall, if not sold out.

The month of May will see the Art Gallery hold the 2016 Swan Hill National Print and Drawing Acquisitive Awards.

This year’s Print and Drawing Awards will incorporate a program of workshops, talks by artists and Print That 2! – an exhibition showcasing printmaking from the region’s secondary schools.

Print and drawing winners will be announced at the awards’ launch on 14 May, which will include the launch of the Print That 2! exhibition. At 11am the following morning, the award finalists and judges will hold an informative guided walk through the Print and Drawing Awards exhibition.

Running until the 10 July, this long-running national print and drawing prize, which celebrates printmaking and drawing, sees some of the finest contemporary works entered from across Australia.

On 26 May, Moulamein artist Barb Harris will hold a drawing workshop for seniors, while on 3 June Art Gallery Director Ian Tully will give a talk titled Fabriano – 700 years of papermaking. Ian will discuss the interesting history of the small European town of Fabriano, one of the earliest (and important) sites of high-quality industrial papermaking and handmade art paper.

Finally, on the 27 June Gunbower artist Jesse Munzel will be holding a drawing workshop for young people aged 12 years and up. Bookings for this workshop are essential – call the gallery on the number below to reserve a spot.

For more information regarding events at the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery, contact

the gallery on 5036 2430, visit gallery.swanhill.vic.gov.au or their Facebook page for updates

on activities and workshops.

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Would you like to receive a copy of our newsletter delivered straight to your inbox?

Just send an email with ‘newsletter’ written in the subject line to media@swanhill.vic.gov.au.

AWARD WINNER: Internal Navigation 2012 (charcoal, conte) by Andrew Antoniou was awarded the prize for drawing at the 2014 National Print and Drawing Acquisitive Awards.

HIPPO! HIPPO!Running time: 50 minutes

Swan Hill Town Hall Performing Arts Centre

Thursday, 19 May 2016 at 10am and 12pm

All tickets $9 each