LG Focus - July 2026

Australia’s National Local Government Newspaper

Crisis looms

A looming financial crisis is threatening the very survival of councils.

That is the message the Councils from every State and Territory and Unions representing the entire Local Government sector sent to Federal Parliament in Canberra.

Australia’s 538 local councils united at the National General Assembly in Canberra to call on the Australian Parliament to deliver an immediate increase in untied funding, warning the financial sustainability of councils and the services communities rely on are increasingly at risk.

In a powerful show of unity, delegates endorsed an emergency motion calling for fairer funding for local government and backed a joint letter to be tabled with every Member of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The letter, signed by the presidents of state and territory local government associations, calls for a multi-partisan commitment to a stronger funding partnership with councils.

Copies of the letter will be sent to the Speaker of the Parliament as well as every MP and Senator.

Union leaders representing the whole Australian Local Government workforce then joined with the Presidents of State and Territory Local Government Associations to hold a joint media conference to demand fairer funding for the sector.

Australian Local Government Association President Mayor Matt Burnett said the motion reflected the shared reality facing councils across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote Australia.

“Financial sustainability is not an abstract discussion for local government. It is about whether councils can keep doing the job our communities expect us to do,” Mayor Burnett said.

“Councils are responsible for the roads, bridges, libraries, pools, parks, footpaths, stormwater systems, waste services and community facilities Australians rely on every day.

“We are also the first people communities call when something goes wrong, whether that is a local road failure, a disaster, a planning issue or a service disruption.

“Yet councils are increasingly being asked to do more with less funding certainty, less flexibility, limited revenue capacity and less ability to plan for the long term.”

The emergency motion calls on the Australian Government to act now to deliver fairer funding through an immediate increase in untied funding for all councils.

Mayor Burnett said Financial Assistance Grants were central to councils’ ability to respond to local priorities because they are untied

and flexible.

“Financial Assistance Grants are not just another grant program. They recognise that no two communities are the same and trust councils to make decisions based on local needs,” he said.

“For rural, regional and remote councils, the pressures include vast geographic areas, small populations, ageing infrastructure and limited rate bases.

“For fast-growing urban councils, the challenge is keeping pace with demand for new roads, drainage, parks, community facilities, waste systems and other services needed to support housing growth.

“The circumstances differ, but the underlying problem is the same. Community expectations, costs and responsibilities are rising, but the funding partnership is not keeping pace.”

Mayor Burnett, who is also the LGA Queensland president, said the consequences extended beyond local government, affecting national productivity, housing supply, freight efficiency, liveability and disaster resilience.

“When councils cannot maintain local infrastructure, productivity suffers. When roads and bridges deteriorate, freight suffers. When essential facilities and enabling infrastructure are

delayed, housing delivery and liveability suffer,” he said.

“This is not just a local government problem. It is a national problem, and it requires a national response.

“Councils want to continue working constructively with the Government, the Parliament and all parties. But the message from this Assembly is unmistakable: local government is united, local government is serious, and councils are calling for action now.”

Mayor Burnett thanked the Australian Services Union (ASU) and United Services Union (USU) for their long support of fairer funding to councils.

ASU National Secretary Emeline Gaske said the halving of value of Financial Assistance Grants as a share of national taxation over the past 30 years from one percent in 1996 to just 0.49 percent in 2026-27, increased the urgency of the call for fairer funding.

“Council workers keep Australian communities running every single day. They collect our bins, running our libraries, maintaining our roads and support communities through floods and fires. They do this work professionally and with commitment, but they need councils that

are properly resourced to back them up,” Ms Gaske said.

In NSW alone, there are more than 50,000 council workers serving their local communities. United Services Union General Secretary Graeme Kelly said the shortfall in funding had forced councils to make difficult budget choices.

“The decline in Federal funding has real consequences for the workers and communities who depend on council services. Restoring the one percent benchmark is the single most important thing Canberra can do for local government,” Mr Kelly said.

NSW LGA President, Mayor Darcy Byrne said the financial crisis in Local Government is leaving many regional communities in particular at breaking point.

“That’s why we are all united in demanding that enough is enough. This must be fixed,” he said.

WALGA President, Mayor Mark Irwin AM said maintaining untied direct funding through Financial Assistance Grants was critical and ensures Local Governments can direct resources where they are needed most, reflecting their unique conditions and priorities.

Continued page 2

EDITORIAL DESK

Reforms an additional worry Mouse plagues in WA, unseasonable weather around the country, communities still rebuilding years after major flooding and fires. It’s little wonder that one of the National Assembly’s main topics of discussion was the Federal Government’s proposed changes to national recovery funding.

The proposed changes would see a 50:50 funding partnership between Commonwealth and state and territory governments – leaving cash-strapped councils worried they’d be left to cover more costs after disasters with all that and outside economic pressures it is little wonder the Assembly made an urgent call for fairer and more sustainable funding.

- Tania Phillips, Editorial Coordinator Local Government Focus

INSIDE THIS EDITION

TASMANIAN TRIBUTE ........PAGE 3

PEAK BODIES ..........................PAGE 4

GOOD OIL ..................................PAGE 6

WALGA AWARDS ...................PAGE 7

NATIONAL AWARDS ....PAGES 8-9

SUBMISSIONS ..............PAGES 10-11

RURAL, REGIONAL ...PAGES 12-13

METRO, SUBURBAN .PAGES 14-15

SPORT, RECREATION ........PAGE 16

CONTACT US

Impressive

Wollondilly Shire Council came home triumphant from the recent 2026 Local Government Professionals Excellence Awards; winning the prestigious PLACE Award, receiving Highly Commended for the Customer Experience and Enhancement Program and Wollondilly School Holiday Partnership Program, and being named a finalist for six other projects.

In a Mayoral Minute at a June meeting Mayor Matt Gould highlighted the positive achievements and said he couldn’t be prouder of the results for Council.

“We went in as a nominated finalist for nine separate projects. This in itself was an impressive achievement and a great reflection of the range of work happening across Council right now,” he said.

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“The projects covered everything from community spaces and major events, to customer experience, innovation, advocacy and leadership, and shows that we are delivering transformative outcomes like never before.”

“The Wollondilly School Holiday Partnership Program involved working with local sporting, arts and community groups to create a hugely popular school holiday program for our kids and families. is a great example of how Council is working in collaboration with others to make life better for residents.”

“The award for our Customer Experience and Enhancement Program recognises the steady,

consistent work happening to make it easier for our customers to deal with us. Now moving into its third year, this program focuses on clearer communication, simpler processes, better follow-up and lifting service standards right across the organisation.”

“Winning the PLACE award was an impressive achievement for our Council. Standing for professional Learning, Advancement and Collaboration Experience, this is a competitive program run by Local Government Professionals where a team of senior managers come up with solutions to real-world challenges.”

“Winning this award says a lot about the quality and capabilities of our leadership staff and their capacity to innovate and collaborate in order to come up with solutions that strengthen communities and set us up for the future.”

“It is fantastic to be recognised for projects that are making a real difference to how our community lives, connects and engages with us, and to celebrate the way we are delivering transformative outcomes like never before.”

Crisis looming...

From page 1

“WALGA will continue to seek ongoing, formula-based and targeted funding for WA Local Governments — delivering the certainty required for long-term planning and enabling Councils to meet the growing and evolving needs of their communities.”

Municipal Association of Victoria President, Cr Jennifer Anderson said Victorian councils were also united in this call for fairer funding.

“Financial Assistance Grants have been quietly eroding for years, and our communities are now feeling the consequences — in delayed infrastructure, stretched services, and councils forced to make impossible choices,” she said.

“We’re asking the Federal Parliament to act now, before this becomes a crisis communities can’t recover from.”

GA South Australia President, Mayor Heather Holmes-Ross said the united call reflected the growing financial pressures being experienced by councils across the country.

“Financial Assistance Grants are one of the only sources of untied funding available to councils, allowing local communities to determine their own priorities and invest where it is needed most,” she said.

“For South Australian councils, particularly those in regional and rural areas facing growing financial pressures, fairer funding is critical to ensuring communities can continue to access the infrastructure and services they rely on every day.

“We stand with our colleagues across the country in calling on the Australian Govern-

LOCAL GOVERNMENT EVENTS

ALGA Local Roads Congress

Cairns

25-26 August

The National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress is the premier national gathering of local government specialists, experts and leaders responsible for the management of these critical community assets.

This year, we invite you to beautiful Cairns, in tropical Far North Queensland, for an exciting and in-depth program that will focus on areas of priority concern to the nation’s councils, including data innovations for heavy vehicle management, how driver behaviour can be influenced by infrastructure design, building (and retaining) a more capable workforce, funding and sequencing for enabling infrastructure, accessible and inclusive design, and much more.This year’s technical tour will provide an opportunity for delegates to visit the groundbreaking Gordonvale water security project.

Coastal Leaders Forum

Airlie Beach, Whitsundays

29-30 July

The LGAQ Coastal Leaders Forum brings together mayors, councillors and senior council officers from across Queensland’s coastal communities to focus on the issues shaping the coast today and into the future. Held in Airlie Beach, Whitsundays, the forum explores key priorities including infrastructure, tourism, climate risk and disaster resilience, with a strong focus on practical insights and real council experiences.

NSW LGA Awards Night

Doltone House

6 August

The Local Government Week Awards Dinner is where NSW councils celebrate successful projects, campaigns and plans that have made a significant benefit to their community.

IPWEA International Asset Management Summit

Rydges Melbourne 22 – 23 October

ment to support a sustainable funding model that recognises the vital role local government plays in Australia’s future.”

Local Government Association of Tasmania President, Mayor Mick Tucker said Local Government was on the frontline of delivering essential services and infrastructure for Tasmanian communities, but the current funding model was no longer keeping pace with growing demand and cost pressures.

“An increase in untied grants is critical to ensuring councils can continue to respond to the unique needs of their communities—particularly across regional and rural Tasmania,” he said.

Local Government Association of the Northern Territory President, Cr Peter Pangquee BM said Local government councils in the Northern Territory serve some of Australia’s most disadvantaged and under-resourced towns and communities.

“These councils are under enormous financial pressure and without a significant funding increase from the Commonwealth Government, inequity will continue and communities particularly in the bush will suffer,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Queensland councils Mayor Burnett said certainty from long term funding that is united and not competitive was critical to all Queensland councils.

“Councils are in a funding framework that has not changed since 1974. Our nation and its communities have changed; councils can’t afford to be left in the ‘70s with insufficient untied federal funding that is leaving local communities behind.”

IPWEA’s International Asset Management Summit 2026 will bring together leading professionals, decision-makers, and innovators from across Australasia to explore the future of asset management. Hosted by IPWEA, this two-day event is designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing our sector as we build sustainable, resilient, and technology-driven infrastructure for communities. Theme: Advancing Asset Management: From Practice to Performance

IPWEA International Public Works Conference

The Crown, Perth 13 – 16 September 2027

The IPWEA International Public Works Conference has a rich history of bringing together professionals, innovators, and leaders from the public works sector to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and shape the future of infrastructure and community development. The central conference theme for IPWC27 is Sustaining Change: A Framework for Transformation, capturing the urgency and opportunity of creating a resilient, forward-thinking foundation for public works and engineering. In a rapidly transforming global landscape, the choices we make today lay the groundwork for a sustainable, thriving future. The event is held every two years.

Tasmania remembers

Statement from the Minister for Local Government, President LGAT and Mayor George Town Council.

It is with great sadness that we inform of the passing of Cr Heather Barwick, who sadly passed away on Sunday, 15 March 2026.

George Town Council honours the exceptional service and lasting contribution of Cr Heather Barwick to both the Council and the wider George Town municipality. Her unwavering dedication to the community has created a legacy that will continue to be felt for many years to come.

“Cr Heather Barwick’s decades of service to the George Town community leave a legacy that will be remembered for generations. Her leadership, dedication, advocacy and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our residents have shaped our municipality in meaningful and lasting ways. We honour her remarkable contribution and extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones,” Mayor George Town Council, Greg Kieser said.

“On behalf of the Local Government Association of Tasmania, I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of Councillor Heather Barwick. Cr Barwick’s long and distinguished service to the George Town community, and to local government more broadly, reflects a lifetime of commitment, leadership and care for others. Her contribution over many decades has left a lasting mark on her municipality and serves as an example of dedicated public service. I will always remember the devilish smile and laughter that did light up the room. We honour her legacy and offer our thoughts to her family, friends, colleagues and the George Town community at this sad time.” President, Local Government Association of Tasmania and Mayor Break O’Day Council, Mick Tucker.

“Cr Barwick’s many years of service to the George Town community reflect a deep commitment to local government and to the wellbeing of the people she served. Her leadership, advocacy and dedication over several decades have made a significant contribution to her municipality and to public life in Tasmania. We recognise and honour her service, and offer our thoughts to her family, fellow councillors, council staff and the wider George Town community.”

The Hon. Kerry Vincent MLC, Minister of Local Government; Minister for Infrastructure and Transport; and Minister for Housing and Planning.

First elected in March 1989, Cr Barwick has provided decades of dedicated service to the George Town community and has been the longest continuously serving Councillor.

In 1995, she made history as the first woman elected as Mayor of George Town, serving until 1997, and during her leadership, she initiated the Council’s first Financial Policy in 1996. During her time as Mayor, she also assisted in the establishment of the Devil Cat ferry service from George Town to Victoria.

Cr Barwick continued to serve the community in a variety of leadership roles, including Deputy Mayor from October 2009 to October 2011, and as Chair of the George Town Community Safety Group Committee since 2014. Her commitment to public service has also extended beyond Council through her work as a Justice of the Peace since 1996, for which she received a 20-year service recognition from the Department of Justice in 2020.

Throughout her time on Council, Cr Barwick

has been a strong advocate for local residents and coastal communities, including Bellingham, Weymouth, Lulworth and Hillwood. She has worked closely with community organisations and progress associations and has been actively involved in numerous projects that have benefited the municipality. These include securing $93,000 for the restoration of the Semaphore site at Mt Direction and successfully obtaining $405,000 in funding for the York Cove walkway and seniors’ exercise equipment.

She has also contributed significantly to community initiatives through her involvement with the Tamar Valley Semaphore Association and the Wattle Group Advisory which instigated a skate park for the youth.

Cr Barwick was known to manning a barbecue every Saturday to raise funds for the skate

SA election timetable released

park. She was a strong advocate for the youth. Her outstanding service was formally recognised in 2014, when she received the Outstanding Commitment and Services to Local Council Award from the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

In 2023, Cr Barwick was inducted into the Tasmania Honour Roll for Women, awarded for her service to the community, advocacy and inclusion; government and public services.

Our thoughts are with Heather’s family and loved ones as we mourn the loss of a valued member of our community. Heather will be warmly remembered for her contribution to local government and the people of our municipality.

The Electoral Commission of South Australia (ECSA) has released the official timetable for the 2027 Local Government periodic elections, providing councils with important dates to support election planning and preparation.

Key dates include:

· Roll close: Monday 4 January 2027

· Nominations open: Tuesday 26 January 2027

· Nominations close: Tuesday 9 February 2027

Close of voting (Polling Day): 5pm, Wednesday 7 April 2027

Scrutiny and count: 9am, Saturday 10 April

2027

The caretaker period will begin no later than Tuesday 9 February 2027 and continue until the conclusion of the elections.

The timetable follows the deferral of the 2026 council elections and provides certainty for councils as preparations begin for the 2027

election period arising from the Local Government (Elections) (Periodic Elections) Amendment Act 2026, which began upon gazettal on 2 July 2026.

Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the full election timetable and incorporate the key dates into their planning and governance activities.

Councils can also access LGA’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to better understand the practical implications of the changes. The resource provides guidance on the issues councils are most likely to encounter as they plan for the transition to the new election timetable.

New NSW transparency measures are in

The NSW Government has implemented measures to improve transparency, integrity and public confidence in local government decision-making.

The Local Government (General) Amendment (Meetings) Regulation 2026 introduces key measures to help ensure higher standards of behaviour, stronger accountability, and greater public visibility of council meetings.

Key reforms include mandatory livestreaming and recording of council meetings, restrictions on private briefings between councillors and staff on agenda items, strengthened powers to address disorderly conduct, and clearer rules to support transparent decision-making.

The new regulation supplements the reinstated 2021 Model Code of Meeting Practice, which resumed operation following the disal-

lowance of the 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice in the Legislative Council on 26 May.

Further information:

The 2021 Model Meeting Code of Practice is now supplemented by the new amendment regulation which contains the following measures which local councils are required to implement:

Meetings of councils and committees whose members are councillors must be livestreamed with recordings of meetings retained on councils’ websites for the balance of the council term or 12 months, whichever is the longer period. This requirement is optional

for joint organisations and county councils. Councillors other than the mayor or chair of a meeting are prohibited from meeting staff before council or committee meetings to discuss matters that are or will be listed on the agenda. Councillors can seek further information about agenda items for meetings, but the information must be provided in writing and, if practicable, published on the council’s website before the meeting unless it relates to a confidential matter listed under section 10A of the Local Government Act.

· Councils will be required to determine at the first meeting after each ordinary election, and

after the adoption of a new meeting code, to authorise the person presiding at meetings to be able remove councillors or members of the public from meetings for disorderly conduct.

· A councillor who has failed to remedy an act of disorder at a meeting as required by the chairperson can be expelled from following meetings until they do so.

Like joint organisations, county councils will have the option of holding meetings where some or all members attend remotely by audio-visual device, but the meeting must be conducted in a way that all members are able to hear each other.

VLGA launches awards

The Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), in partnership with the Victorian Government, has launched the Mary Rogers Awards for women in local government for the second year.

Named after Mary Rogers – the first woman to be elected to a Victorian Municipal Council (City of Richmond 1920-1925) - the annual Awards celebrate and acknowledge the significant contributions and achievements of women councillors as civic leaders in local government. They also serve as a platform to promote and advocate for the advancement of gender equality in the sector and focus on supporting women’s participation in local government and decision-making.

Nominations have just closed for the following Award Categories with the winners set to be announced on 3 September.

Mary Rogers Award - Awarded to a current woman councillor, recognising their outstanding contribution as a civic leader in Victoria.

Emerging Woman Leader Award - Awarded to a first term woman councillor who is demonstrating outstanding leadership.

Gender Equality Council Champion Award (Metro/Interface)– Awarded to a Victorian Council in metropolitan or interface Melbourne in recognition of their work leading meaningful change in the gender equality space by supporting women’s participation in local government and decision-making.

ber informs and strengthens decision making and good governance.”

Dr Fergeus said the VLGA had a proud history of being a leader in the gender equality space, promoting the benefits of balanced gender representation and delivering high quality programs and resources which improve gender equality outcomes for the sector.

“We have pioneered gender equality initiatives in local government, including sector-wide research, and have been championing sector-wide investment and partnerships to help bridge the gender gap for over two decades, including our acclaimed Local Women Leading Change Program.

VLGA President Dr Josh Fergeus said these Awards help shine a light on the critical contributions women make to the local government sector and the importance of gender parity.

“At the conclusion of the local government

Gender Equality Council Champion Award (Rural/Regional)– Awarded to a Council in rural or regional Victoria in recognition of their work leading meaningful change in the gender equality space by supporting women’s participation in local government and decision-making.

elections in 2028 we hope that 50 per cent of Victoria’s councillors and mayors will be women.”

“The VLGA believes that councils should look like the communities they represent.”

“By recognising the outstanding contributions of women councillors across the sector we aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive culture across local government.

“We know that diversity in the council cham-

“The Mary Rogers Awards is another way we are working to bridge the gender gap and celebrate the contributions women continue to make to the local government sector.”

“In its inaugural year the Awards received more than 60 nominations. We are hoping the number of nominations will grow even further in 2026.”

The Awards will be presented at a special ceremony at Queens Hall, Parliament House in Melbourne on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

SA to review leadership and behaviour

A first-of-its kind review into the leadership and behaviour of South Australia’s council members has identified 10 key findings and 35 recommendations to improve behaviour and wellbeing across the sector, prompting steps for further action.

The findings outlined in the Local Government Leadership and Behavioural Management Review, commissioned by LGA South Australia, follows a Parliamentary motion in June 2025 by the Hon Connie Bonaros MLC calling for an inquiry into bullying and harassment in local government.

The Independent Review, conducted by organisational psychosocial and research experts at Flinders University, examined council member experiences of culture, leadership and behaviour on council, drawing on 252 survey responses and 53 in-depth interviews from mayors, councillors, council CEOs and key staff in metropolitan and regional councils across the state

The review identified 35 recommendations across three key areas including:

· system-level improvements to governance frameworks, behavioural management processes and sector-wide support mechanisms

· council-level actions to strengthen leader-

ship, culture, psychological safety and organisational practices

· individual-level initiatives focused on leadership capability, behavioural expectations, education and professional development.

LGA President Mayor Heather HolmesRoss said the review provided the most comprehensive evidence base ever developed on leadership and behavioural management in South Australian local government.

“This review confirms what many of us already know – councils across South Australia are filled with dedicated people who care deeply about their communities and work every day to deliver positive outcomes for residents,” Mayor Holmes-Ross said.

“The review also confirms that poor behaviour, while not representative of the sector as a whole, can have serious impacts on individuals, councils and communities when it occurs.

“Bullying, harassment and harmful behaviour are unacceptable in any workplace, including local government. Any behaviour

that undermines wellbeing, health and safety, effective governance or democratic decisionmaking cannot be tolerated.

“We commissioned this review because we wanted an independent, evidence-based assessment of leadership and behavioural management across the sector.

“We are pleased to release the findings and recommendations, because transparency matters and meaningful improvement starts with honest conversations.”

Mayor Holmes-Ross said strong participation in the review demonstrated the sector’s willingness to critique its performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

“This review reflects the experiences, insights and improvement ideas of people working across local government and provides a roadmap for strengthening leadership, governance and council culture into the future,”

Mayor Holmes-Ross said.

LGA will now engage with its members to further consider the review findings and

Regional leaders in Ballina

The meeting brought together mayors, general managers and senior local government staff with State ministers and agency leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing regional communities, while showcasing the significant investment and growth taking place across Ballina Shire.

The program featured keynote presentations from NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison, NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin, Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority Kate Fitzgerald, and NSW Shadow Minister for Regional NSW and Leader of the NSW Nationals Gurmesh Singh. Discussions focused on issues affecting regional communities, including transport, disaster recovery and infrastructure investment.

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said hosting the meeting provided an important op-

portunity to strengthen collaboration between regional councils while ensuring the voices of regional communities were heard by State decision-makers.

“It was a privilege to welcome delegates from across regional New South Wales to Ballina and facilitate important discussions on the issues affecting regional communities,” Mayor Cadwallader said.

“Hosting the meeting also gave us the opportunity to showcase the significant investment taking place across our shire and the projects helping shape Ballina’s future.”

Delegates participated in a guided tour led by Ballina Shire Council General Manager Paul Hickey and Director of Civil Services Troy Anderson, visiting major infrastructure projects and visitor destinations including the Ballina Bridges Duplication project, Ballina Byron Gate-

way Airport, Southern Cross Industrial Estate, the upgraded Sharpes Beach carpark, Pat Morton Lookout and the iconic Big Prawn.

The program also included a demonstration of Essential Energy’s new emergency response vehicle, equipped with Starlink satellite connectivity and other technology to support frontline crews and communities during natural disasters and extended power outages.

Ballina Shire Council’s Acting Coordinator Destination and Economy Lisa O’Meara said hosting conferences and business events delivered lasting benefits for the region.

“Business events like this generate direct economic benefits for local accommodation providers, restaurants and tourism operators, while giving decision-makers the opportunity to experience Ballina and connect directly with our community,” Ms O’Meara said.

recommendations, acknowledging that this needs a system change that strengthens wellbeing and supports chambers to have respectful and constructive discussion on behalf of their communities.

Acting Commissioner for Equal Opportunity Kara Wiseman said South Australians deserve respectful, inclusive workplace that are free of bullying and harassment.

“It’s especially important that South Australians have confidence that those institutions holding leadership positions in our community - be it the legal profession, State Parliament or, in this case, local government – are not only delivering vital services, but are doing so while supporting their workforce accordingly,” Acting Commissioner said.

“I commend the Local Government Association for taking this first step to a more positive, inclusive workplace, and look forward to working with them as they implement measures aimed at delivering on this review’s findings.”

Marking 50 years

A landmark cultural journey that took local Aboriginal dancers to the other side of the world is being celebrated through a special photo exhibition at Wollongong Library.

By Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Tania Brown

The exhibition marks 20 years since the Wadi Wadi Mixed Tribe Dance Troupe travelled to Ohrid, Macedonia, in July 2006 as part of a Wollongong City Council delegation. The visit made history, with the troupe becoming the first Aboriginal dance group to perform in Macedonia, appearing at the city’s Summer Festival.

Curated by Wollongong City Libraries’ Local Studies team, the exhibition features photographs, video and personal stories from the trip and is on display at Wollongong Library until 30 September.

An invite-only gathering during NAIDOC Week brought together troupe members, family, community and guests to commemorate the journey. Uncle Roy Stewart, Mark Mongta, Ivan Morris, Solkan Donaczy and organiser Aunty Sharralyn Robinson recalled their experiences, including the large amount of community support they received for the trip, the excitement of travelling overseas for the first time, and the warm welcome and “rock star treatment” they received in Macedonia. A minutes’ silence was held for former Troupe member Anthony Moore, who was represented by his daughter Toni

Chant.

The anniversary project also includes six newly recorded oral histories from those involved in the trip. These recordings are now

part of Wollongong City Libraries’ local history collection, helping preserve the story of the troupe’s groundbreaking cultural exchange for future generations.

Dubbo reeling after theft

Over $140,000 worth of equipment has been stolen from Dubbo Regional Council’s Amaroo Drive Depot in Wellington between 10pm and 11pm on Monday 6 July.

A white Toyota sedan was seen entering the depot multiple times.

The last known location of the sedan and the mini excavator was along Burrendong Way travelling towards Stuart Town.

The stolen equipment includes a Bobcat E20 Mini Excavator on a DND Welding Plant Trailer, a Quik Corp 1200L Dust Suppression Trailer, and an Express Welding Sign Trailer.

Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Josh Black said the act was incredibly disappointing and selfish.

“It’s upsetting to see an act like this occur in the region we call home.

“This equipment was paid for by the community to be used for projects within our community. To so brazenly and selfishly steal it is beyond belief.

“Council has already been in contact with the NSW Police and will be assisting them with their investigation,” Clr Black said.

Any members of the public with information about the whereabouts of the stolen equipment are asked to call the police on 131 444.

Centre stage

The Phee Broadway Theatre Foyer Exhibition Program has kicked off with a selection of local artists taking over the space.

Mount Alexander Shire Council is proud to announce the exhibiting artists, who will display their artwork over the next twelve months.

The theatre, which is located at Mechanics Lane in Castlemaine, is a community gathering place where creativity is fostered and people connect.

The program will feature something for everyone to enjoy, with new work changing over every two months.

Exhibitions in the 2026-2027 program include photography, vibrant acrylics, watercolour, pen and ink, drawings, carvings and lots more.

Mount Alexander Shire Mayor, Cr Toby Hedyon, said that Council is proud to support local artists by providing a space to showcase their work.

“This program celebrates the creativity and diversity of our local arts community.

“We have such passionate and creative artists in our shire, and it’s wonderful to be able to give residents and visitors alike the chance to enjoy their artwork in this lovely exhibition space.

“Here at Council, we’re committed to fostering the arts with initiatives like this one – connecting artists with the community.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the diverse selection of works on display over the next twelve months.

“I encourage everyone to stop by and take in the incredible artwork made by members of our very own community.”

The first exhibition opened on 1July, with the last show opening in May 2027.

What Pauline is missing

Pauline Hanson showed a lot of chutzpa with her address to the National Press Club. She took a swing at renewables, the ABC, SBS, transgender rights, housing costs etc.

THE GOOD OIL

ROD BROWN

She then doubled down by calling for Australia to become a monoculture along the lines of Japan. This has since been widely ridiculed and has cast a shadow over other elements of One Nation’s vision for Australia.

Regional development

I’m not interested in running a commentary on One Nation’s political manifesto, but I do wonder why, in a sprawling address, she NEVER mentioned regional development. This is particularly odd given that the bulk of her supporters live in the regions.

To be fair to Hanson, ‘regional development’ is not well understood, and for her to launch into this issue without a policy package would have complicated things even further.

However, it’s worth dwelling on the issue because I believe that the lack of a strong regional policy is one reason why the Farrer electorate voted in large numbers for One Nation.

Let’s firstly note the different nuances of regional development. Academics have tended to describe it as a set of policies that take into account a sense of place’’. Hard to get your head around this.

The OECD and other international organisations take a different view - they usually define it as a broad category of policies aimed at reducing regional disparities. This stems from (a) the European experience of trying to close the gap between the relatively poorer agrarian nations around the Mediterranean and the industrialised nations of northern Europe, and (b) the US experience of wealthy urbanised regions versus poorer agriculture and mining regions such as the Appalachians and the Deep South. Australia’s policies

In Australia, we haven’t had the same level of regional income inequality, mainly because of our federal parliamentary system, a universal health system, the role of the Commonwealth Grants Commission in evening out the fiscal position of the states, and arguably an underlying sense of egalitarianism.

As a result, Australia doesn’t have the big wealth regional discrepancies of Europe and the USA. And this probably explains why we don’t have strong, dynamic regional development policies.

However, the situation is now more complicated because regional development policy has moved to another level. It’s no longer about reducing regional income gaps - it’s about leveraging competitive advantages, attracting investment and building supply chains into global markets. The best examples lie in Scandinavia, the Gulf States, Singapore, and South Korea where they unashamedly have industrial and regional policies to create or enhance competitive advantages, and to pick winners.

What has this got to do with One Nation?

Well, my gut feel is that country folk would welcome a dynamic regional development policy. It would give them hope. At the moment they’re feeling left behind and forgotten. Their access to politicians and bureaucrats is problematical.

Picking up a phone and speaking to a Canberra bureaucrat used to be easy - now it’s virtually impossible. First, the switchboard won’t connect unless you have a name, then you’ll be asked to send an email, then a wait of a few weeks, then an emailed reply, or a phone call if you’re lucky. No wonder Canberra has a fortress reputation.

A strong regional development policy would aim to address the urban-rural divide. There is a mountain of evidence of lower incomes, fewer job opportunities and higher suicide rates in the Bush. Towns are shrinking and health and education services are ebbing away. Access to water is seen as a bureaucratic folly. Youths continue to head to the cities.

The sad part is that Hanson’s National Press Club address didn’t cover any of this. Meanwhile politicians gabble by rote about ‘regional and rural Australia’. But policies to attract regional investment - which is how jobs are created - are rarely discussed.

PM Albanese was previously the Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, but he’s never shown much interest in regional development. Similarly, Scott Morrison majored in economic geography, but never showed his credentials in regional development.

To add to the problem, the feds no longer have an investment attraction agency. Investment Australia had 120 staff in the late 1990s (admittedly overkill) but it now has zero staff. This is at a time of massive global shifts in trade and investment, and the imperative for Australia to forge joint ventures with overseas partners.

See Boag’s item below.

Decentralisation initiatives overdue

My suggestion is that decentralisation incentives would go hand in hand with a stronger regional investment effort.

I’ve intentionally avoided the use of the term decentralisation policy lest it scare the horses. Why so? Well, there are enough pundits still around that criticise the Whitlam Government’s decentralisation policy that breathed life into places like Albury-Wodonga and Bathurst-Orange.

Personally, I think these regional cities have turned out fine. But there is now another cohort of critics that believe that inland environments will become unpleasant due to global warming, that they lack modern and diverse services, and are served by primitive transport systems. Some of this is fair comment, but the root cause is the lack of decentralisation initiatives to offset the laissez faire thinking of successive federal and state governments.

In this context, a more finessed, win-win approach is recommended. The start point would be for political parties - both federal and stateto accept that our major cities are choking, and to then embrace the notion that the relocation of certain types of industry out of urban areas makes sense viz. by freeing up urban land for

housing, creating regional jobs, building the regional population, and generating the revenue streams to improve the economics of regional health, education and transport services. I’ve covered this in previous columns, and I’ll now tease this out with federal/state agencies and others. I’ll keep you in the loop.

Where to now?

My inkling is that One Nation will implode within two years. Not for lack of enthusiasm, but because it doesn’t have sensible solutions for the big policy issues.

Enter the Nationals.

As I’ve said before, the Nats have under-appreciated talent.

For example:

· Matt Canavan, their leader, has a good brain, a no-nonsense personality, and recognises the need to tap the potential of our regions.

· Darren Chester, the deputy leader, is the former CEO of Champions of the Bush, and now has the opportunity to put his expertise into play.

· Bridget McKenzie, has wide ministerial experience across rural health, regional telecoms, emergency services.

· Kevin Hogan, has a background in finance and super funds, and talks sense.

How the Nationals might move forward politically is difficult to predict. Their bedmates, the Liberals are in disarray, and the teals and independents are more towards the left. But it’s a fluid situation and politicians like Allegra Spender could be interested in progressive policies coming from the Nationals.

Lessons from Iran

One of Australia’s best defence commentators, David Kilcullen (UNSW), is grabbing attention with his insights on the Iran war.

He notes that the Iran regime is still in control of its population, territory and industrial base. And says there are lessons for middle powers like Australia in terms of defending themselves. In our case, there are two main lessons.

The first is the need for an unconventional deterrence strategy based around small, wellarmed amphibious teams of air, sea-surface and

undersea drones. The unstated inference is that our AUKUS submarines are a waste of money.

The second lesson is that given our vast size and dispersed population, it makes sense to have a decentralised command-and-control strategy. A central command from Canberra and the Joint Operations Command at Bungendore (outside Canberra) is appropriate for managing operations outside our territory, but it needs rethinking in the event of a major attack on Australia. In other words, more decentralised nodes involving smallish high-tech companies with strong logistics capabilities.

However, working against this is the conventional thinking within our Defence Department shaped by the lobbying of multinationals like BAE, Northrop, Boeing, Thales etc.

In this context, local councils and the WA and NT governments might sensibly consider the medium-term potential for defence armaments clusters in our northern regions.

Boag’s - Launceston’s own

It was sad to hear of the recent decision by Lion Breweries to close Boag’s Brewery in Launceston. The beer will continue to be brewed, but in Queensland.

The brewery will be always intertwined with the history of Launceston, and Tasmania generally. But there is a plus side - namely that the Boag’s site is in a premium location, which means that once the equipment is cleared of equipment and technology, it can be offered up to investors that can leverage the competitive advantages of the locality - a strong bioeconomy, numerous agricultural producers in niche markets, renewable energy, liveability-wellness attributes, adventure tourism and the like.

Finding these investors may be difficult at present given the Iran War and Trump’s predilection for trade wars. But once this is behind us, the attributes of the Boag’s site in Launceston will hopefully become apparent to international investors.

Rod Brown is a Canberra-based lobbyist specialising in industry/regional development.

Email apdcockatoo@iprimus.com.au

Chappel receives top award

WALGA’s annual Local Government Awards for 2026 saw more than 40 current and former Elected Members and Local with Honours Awards for their outstanding contributions across WA.

A number of Local Governments were also acknowledged for their significant work in making WA roads safer through WALGA’s RoadWise Recognised Awards and in making Local Governments more accessible through the Most Accessible Communities WA Awards (MACWA).

Hosted at the WA Museum Boola Bardip on Friday, 12 June, the WALGA Local Government Awards honour those who go above and beyond in serving their communities.

Former WALGA President and Shire of Morawa President Cr Karen Chappel AM JP was awarded the Local Government Medal, the highest honour, recognising exceptional service, achievements and contributions to the Local Government sector.

President Cr Beth Walton from the Shire of Sandstone was awarded WALGA Life Membership, for her outstanding service and contribution to WALGA.

Mason Pickhard, son of former WALGA President Troy Pickard was a special guest on the evening and proudly awarded Deputy President Cr Reece Jerrett from the Shire of SerpentineJarrahdale, the Troy Pickard Young Achievers Award. This Award recognises those aged 35 years or younger for notable contributions and commitment to Local Government and demonstrated potential for professional success.

Six Local Governments were awarded RoadWise Recognised Awards for their commitment to best practice in the planning and delivery of impactful road safety interventions, and for the adoption of a holistic approach to road safety.

WALGA President Mark Irwin AM said the Awards highlighted individuals whose contributions have strengthened the Local Government sector and supported the communities they represented.

“Behind every great community are Local Government Elected Members and Officers who put in extraordinary efforts to deliver better outcomes,” President Irwin said.

“I particularly want to acknowledge former WALGA President and Shire of Morawa President Karen Chappel AM JP for being awarded the Local Government Medal in recognition of her incredible contribution to the sector of more than 20 years’ of service.

“Congratulations to everyone who was recognised for their efforts.”

WALGA Honours Award Recipients

· Local Government Medal: President Cr Karen Chappel AM JP – Shire of Morawa

· WALGA Life Membership: President Cr Beth Walton – Shire of Sandstone

· Troy Pickard Young Achievers Award: Deputy President Cr Reece Jerrett – Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale

· Eminent Service Award: Mr Barry Haywood

- Shire of Goomalling, Mayor Karen Vernon

- Town of Victoria Park, Mr Gavin TreasureShire of Dumbleyung, Cr Wendy McWhirter Brooks - Shire of East Pilbara, Cr Linton Rumble JP - Shire of Ashburton, Mayor Patrick Hall JP - City of Canning, Mr Jeremy O’Neill - Shire of Capel, Mr Gregory Dwyer - Shire of Menzies.

· Merit Award: Deputy President Luke Ellery - Shire of Mundaring, Mr Ben RoseShire of Manjimup, Ms Natalie Bird - Shire of Goomalling, Mr Richard Walker - Shire of Boyup Brook, Cr Eng Wah Joel Chan - Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale, Ms Ann-Marie Mia Hicks - City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Ms Alina Behan - Shire of York, Cr Amy HardhamShire of Narembeen, Cr Deborah Fay BoticaCity of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Ms Kayla McNicol - City of Swan, Gary Smith - City of Armadale, Cr John Raftis - City of Joondalup, President Cr Ramesh (Ram) Rajagopalan - Shire of Bruce Rock, Mr James Watt - Shire of Broome, Mr David Blurton - Shire of Katanning, Cr Brie Noone - Shire of Ashburton, Ms Mary RossCity of Canning, Cr Tony Krsticevic - City of Stirling,

· Cr Teresa Olow - City of Stirling, Cr Andrea Creado - City of Stirling, Cr Todd Harris - Shire of Cunderdin, President Cr Alison HarrisShire of Cunderdin, Mr Norm Jenzen - Shire of Cunderdin

· Mayor Linda Aitken - City of Wanneroo, Cr Ben Kunze - City of Canning, Mr Mark Dickson - City of Wanneroo, Mr Theo Naude - Shire

Mason Pickhard, son of former WALGA President Troy Pickard, was a special guest on the evening and proudly awarded Deputy President Cr Reece Jerrett from the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale, the Troy Pickard Young Achievers Award.

President Mark

AM.

of Dardanup, Ms Rhonda Mettam - Shire of Shark Bay, Mayor Katy Mair - City of Melville, Cr Jacqui Huntley - City of Wanneroo.

WALGA RoadWise Recognised Awards

Acknowledgement of Participating Councils: City of Albany, Shire of Northam, Shire of Dalwallinu, Shire of Victoria Plains.

· WA Perpetual Award: Shire of Dowerin

· RoadWise Recognised Award (Sponsored by Brooks Hire): City of Wanneroo

· Most Accessible Communities WA (MACWA)

Awards: Access Award: Winner: Town of Victoria Park, Runner up: City of Albany, Highly Commended: Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Two awards for City of

The City of Vincent has won two awards at the 2026 Local Government National Awards announced on Monday 22 June.

By Tania Phillips

The winners received their awards at a presentation which took place at the 2026 Australian Council of Local Government event in Canberra.

The City of Vincent was recognised for its leadership and commitment to creating a more sustainable and safer community, taking home two categories at the 2026 National Awards for Local Government.

Vincent won the Environmental Sustainability Award for its GreenTrack initiative and the Road Safety Award for its Near Miss Pilot Program.

The National Awards for Local Government are the Australian Government’s premier awards program, recognising projects that demonstrate innovation, leadership and excellence in local government service delivery across Australia.

Mayor Alison Xamon said the dual award win reflects Vincent’s commitment to finding practical solutions to some of the most important challenges facing local communities.

“These awards recognise projects that are making a tangible difference in our community, whether that’s helping residents build more sustainable homes or improving safety on our streets.

We’re incredibly proud that two initiatives developed here in Vincent have been recognised on the national stage.

As communities across Australia seek practical ways to reduce emissions, build more resilient neighbourhoods and improve road safety, these programs demonstrate the important role local governments can play in delivering practical solutions that create lasting community benefit.”

City of Moreton Bay received national recognition for its visionary approach to addressing housing challenges, including housing insecurity and homelessness winning the Affordable Housing category.

City of Moreton Bay’s Community Leasing for Social and Affordable Housing project, enables community housing providers and specialist homelessness services to access Councilowned land through low-cost, long-term leases to develop social, affordable and crisis housing.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the accolade was a welcome recognition of Council’s efforts in providing real housing solutions.

“This award highlights the importance of increasing the amount of community housing to deliver real outcomes for people experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness in our community.

“An end to homelessness is a non-negotiable goal for City of Moreton Bay, and we are actively working with frontline services, housing providers, community groups and all levels of government to deliver immediate and practical support to achieve this goal,” he said

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she was honoured to accept an award for Library at Caloundra in the Regional Growth category.

“The national recognition highlighted Council’s commitment to delivering community infrastructure that supported a growing region,” Mayor Natoli said.

“Library+ Caloundra shows how we are shaping the Sunshine Coast with modern, flexible spaces that bring people together and support lifelong learning.

“This award recognises a facility that does more than house books.

“It is a vibrant community hub where people can connect, learn, create and access essential services.

“Library+ Caloundra was designed to meet the evolving needs of the Sunshine Coast region.

“We listened to our residents and delivered a space that reflects how people use libraries today, with digital technology, creative spaces and welcoming areas for all ages.

“Our libraries are no longer just quiet places to read. They are inclusive, accessible and dynamic spaces that help build strong, connected communities.”

City of Palmerston was thrilled to receive national recognition for the Zuccoli Pump Track winning the ‘Productivity Through Infrastruc-

ture’ category.

The award recognises projects that support sustainable growth, improve liveability and productivity, and deliver long-term economic and community benefits.

Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell who accepted the award at Parliament House in Canberra, said the recognition reflected the success of the Zuccoli Pump Track and Council’s commitment to delivering projects collaboratively with the community.

“This recognition highlights what can be achieved when we listen to our community and invest in infrastructure that people genuinely want and will use” Mayor Pascoe-Bell said.

“The Zuccoli Pump Track has quickly become a popular destination for local families, children and young people, providing a safe and inclusive place to be active and connect with others.”

The pump track forms part of the broader Zuccoli Community Hub precinct, which has been shaped through community consultation. It demonstrates how thoughtfully planned infrastructure can enhance liveability, encourage active lifestyles and create lasting benefits for our community.

Mayor Pascoe-Bell added “as Palmerston continues to grow, it is critical that we invest in infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but supports the long-term aspirations of our community.”

Meanwhile the Glasshouse, Kerang - a $3.07 million project - received an Honourable Mention in the Outstanding Rural and Remote Coun-

cil category.

“Council is honoured to receive recognition from the National Awards for Local Government program, which showcases the efforts of the 537 local councils across Australia,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“A public vote helps determine each of the 13 category winners, meaning The Glasshouse resonated with many of those who took the opportunity earlier this year to view all nominees and determine who they wanted to be recognised as part of the awards program.”

Officially opened in December 2025, The Glasshouse has hosted various Council and community events, including awards and Australian Citizenship ceremonies, comedy evenings, workshops, author talks and children’s activities.

Full winners

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s Recognition

· Winner: Wollongong City Council | Illawarra Indigenous Business Expo

The Illawarra Indigenous Business Expo, established in 2023, supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses by improving market access, visibility and opportunities for procurement and partnerships. Since 2025, the Expo has been independently delivered by a local Aboriginal-owned business, marking a transition to Aboriginal leadership, with ongoing support from Council.

The Expo brings together businesses, gov-

ernment, industry, education providers and the community in a culturally safe and inclusive environment. In 2025, the event showcased 62 businesses and attracted approximately 500 attendees, facilitating direct sales and commercial engagement, with 60 per cent of stallholders reporting business outcomes.

· Honourable Mention: Diamantina Shire Council | Breaking Ground: Empowering Indigenous Leadership in Remote Australia Addressing Violence Against Women and Children

· Winner: City of Greater Dandenong | Voices for Safety: A Community Led Stand Against Violence

Voices for Safety is a prevention initiative addressing violence against women and children by targeting key drivers such as gender inequality, harmful social norms and power imbalances. The initiative was centred around the Walk Against Family Violence on 25 November 2025 and extended across a four-week program of engagement and activity.

The project delivered community education, advocacy and prevention activities through a coordinated, cross-sector approach. Digital storytelling and community partnerships significantly expanded the initiative’s reach, ensuring messages were accessible and culturally relevant across Greater Dandenong’s diverse communities.

· Honourable Mention: City of Palmerston | City of Palmerston’s Domestic Violence Action Plan

Vincent in Canberra

Affordable Housing

· Winner: City of Moreton Bay | Community Leasing for Social and Affordable Housing

The Community Leasing for Social and Affordable Housing project uses Council’s Community Leasing Policy to enable Community Housing Providers and Specialist Homelessness Services to access Council-owned land through long-term lease arrangements. The initiative responds to increasing demand for secure and affordable housing.

Through 50-year peppercorn leases, Council is supporting the delivery of 22 new social housing dwellings accommodating up to 46 people. The project provides long-term housing stability for individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

· Honourable Mention: City of Kalamunda | High Wycombe South Residential Precinct Arts and Culture

Winner: Burwood Council | Ford Lane: From Laneway to Live Music Destination

The Ford Lane project transformed an underutilised laneway into a vibrant live music and cultural destination, placing arts and culture at the centre of placemaking. The initiative addressed the need to activate underused urban spaces while supporting local artists and businesses.

The project included infrastructure upgrades, curated events, and the establishment of Ford Lane as a bookable public space. This has resulted in increased visitation, longer dwell times and strong community engagement, contributing to a more vibrant local precinct.

· Honourable Mention: Port Phillip City Council | St Kilda Festival

Productivity Through Infrastructure

· Winner: City of Palmerston | Zuccoli Community Hub – Pump Track

The Zuccoli Community Hub – Pump Track project delivers a multi-purpose recreational facility to support the needs of a growing community. The initiative forms part of a broader precinct designed to enhance open space and recreation opportunities.

The pump track provides an inclusive and accessible space for all skill levels, promoting active lifestyles and community engagement. A key achievement was the use of local contractors, supporting regional capability and workforce development.

Honourable Mention: City of Launceston | St Leonards & Waverly Neighbourhood Plan and Infrastructure Funding Regional Growth

Winner: Sunshine Coast Council | Library + Caloundra

Cohesive Communities

· Winner: Burwood Council | Burwood Lunar Lanes 2026: A City United through Culture, Connection and Community

Burwood Lunar Lanes 2026 is a large-scale, multi-site cultural festival celebrating diversity, connection, and community. The festival transformed Burwood Town Centre into an immersive cultural precinct spanning multiple public spaces and attracting more than 50,000 attendees.

The event showcased culturally diverse artists, performers and local businesses, creating opportunities for community participation and economic activity. The initiative strengthened social cohesion by fostering intercultural understanding and meaningful community engagement.

Honourable Mention: City of Gosnells | Yes! City of Gosnells Youth Entertainment Space Disaster Readiness and Recovery

· Winner: Hawkesbury City Council | Reconstruction of Thomas James Bridge

The reconstruction of Thomas James Bridge restored a significant heritage structure following extensive flood damage in 2022. The project addressed the need to preserve a culturally important asset while improving infrastructure resilience and safety.

More than 1,600 heritage sandstone blocks were carefully removed, catalogued, and reinstated. The reconstructed bridge now meets modern engineering standards, restoring full access while maintaining its historical integrity and ensuring long-term resilience.

· Honourable Mention: Murrindindi Shire Council | LEAP: Community-Owned Emergency

Planning and Community Relief Hubs Environmental Sustainability

Winner: City of Vincent | City of Vincent –GreenTrack: A Simple Way to Deliver More Sustainable Homes

GreenTrack is a voluntary initiative designed to support more sustainable home design by helping homeowners consider environmental impacts early in the planning process. The project responds to the need for practical tools to guide decisions around energy use, materials, and environmental performance.

Developed in partnership with Cerclos, the initiative includes a digital tool that provides real-time insights into carbon and water impacts. This enables informed decision-making and supports improved sustainability outcomes in residential development.

· Honourable Mention: City of Gosnells | Sustainability in Action – City of Gosnells Outstanding Rural and Remote Council

Winner: Quilpie Shire Council | Quilpie Shire

- Q1000

The Q1000 initiative aims to grow the population of Quilpie Shire through targeted housing, workforce, and community development strategies. The project responds to demographic shifts and regional workforce shortages impacting housing availability.

Council has invested in new housing, introduced financial incentives, and created pathways to home ownership for essential workers and residents. These measures support longterm community sustainability and regional economic growth.

Honourable Mention: Gannawarra Shire Council | The Glasshouse

Library+ Caloundra repurposes a former administration building into a contemporary, multiuse community hub incorporating library services, customer service, and Council operations. The project responds to population growth and the need for accessible, integrated services. By consolidating services into a single location, the project improves efficiency and accessibility while supporting community connection. The facility also demonstrates strong sustainability outcomes and contributes to long-term regional growth.

· Honourable Mention: Quilpie Shire Council | Quilpie Shire – Q1000 Road Safety

Winner: City of Vincent | Near Miss Pilot Program – Fitzgerald Street and Angove Street

The Near Miss Pilot Program uses AI-enabled camera technology to capture and analyse near miss incidents at a high-risk intersection, providing a proactive approach to road safety. The initiative addresses gaps in traditional crash data by identifying risks before incidents occur. Over a three-month period, the system recorded more than 1,100 near miss events, uncovering previously unrecognised safety issues. This data is being used to inform targeted interventions to improve safety and reduce future crash risk.

· Honourable Mention: Scenic Rim Regional Council | Beaudesert Town Centre Road Safety Initiatives

Women in Local Government

Winner: Shire of Manjimup | Director of Infrastructure – Catherine Mills

This initiative recognises the leadership of Catherine Mills, Director of Infrastructure at the Shire of Manjimup, in transforming service delivery and team performance. The project highlights the importance of strong leadership in delivering effective infrastructure outcomes in a regional context.

Through a focus on culture, communication, and accountability. Catherine has strengthened organisational capability and improved team cohesion. This has resulted in more effective service delivery and better outcomes for the local community.

· Honourable Mention: City of Port Adelaide Enfield | Women in City Assets Program Workforce and Skills

· Winner: City of Port Adelaide Enfield | Women in City Assets Program

City Assets is the largest and most maledominated department within the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, employing 43 per cent of the organisation’s workforce, with women historically representing just 12 per cent. In response, Council launched the Women in City Assets plan in 2023 as a targeted strategy to address entrenched gender inequality across infrastructure and operational roles.

The initiative embeds gender equity into workforce practices through coordinated actions across recruitment, workforce development, and culture. In its first two years, it has delivered measurable outcomes, including a 77 per cent increase in women applying for roles, greater representation across leadership and technical disciplines, and stronger pathways into traditionally male-dominated fields.

Honourable Mention: Diamantina Shire Council | Diamantina Shire Council: Start-Up Week – A Whole-of-Council Approach to Training

Key to access underway

Works on the Munday Avenue extension continue to move forward, with limestone now installed and this stage of the project completed for the current financial year.

Shire of Murray Chief Executive Officer, Dean Unsworth said the extension is a key part of improving transport access throughout the area and supporting future growth.

“Once finished, the new connection between Greenlands Road and Munday Avenue will provide a direct link to the Pinjarra industrial area, giving heavy vehicles and other traffic an alternative route that avoids the town centre,” said Mr Unsworth.

“Providing an alternative route for heavy vehicles is an important step in reducing traffic through the Pinjarra CBD. By directing industrial traffic away from the town centre, the project will help improve safety, reduce congestion and create a more pleasant environment for residents, visitors and local businesses,” added Mr Unsworth.

The Munday Avenue extension also supports the long-term vision outlined in the Pinjarra Town Centre Revitalisation Strategy.

As Pinjarra continues to grow, improved transport infrastructure will play an important role in ensuring the town remains a great place to live, work and visit.

By improving access to industrial areas while reducing pressure on the town centre, the

Munday Avenue extension will help strengthen Pinjarra’s commercial, retail and tourism sectors.

The project is an important investment in the town’s future and will deliver lasting benefits for the community and local economy. This project is supported and funded by the Western Australian State Government.

A waterwise decade for Mandurah

The City of Mandurah has been re-endorsed as a Gold Waterwise Council through the Water Corporation’s Waterwise Council Program, marking more than a decade of top-tier leadership in water efficiency and sustainable environmental management.

The annual endorsement recognises local governments demonstrating best-practice water management across operations, infrastructure and community programs. First endorsed as a Gold Waterwise Council in 2009, the accolade reinforces Mandurah’s long-term commitment to being built in nature, not on nature.

City of Mandurah Mayor Amber Kearns said the milestone was something the whole community could be proud of.

“Ten years of Gold recognition shows we’re making thoughtful choices, year after year, to protect the natural environment that makes Mandurah such a special place to live,” she said.

Mayor Kearns said the City’s waterwise approach focused on everyday, practical decisions that added up over time.

“Being waterwise isn’t about a single proj-

ect or policy. It’s about embedding sustainability into how we plan, build and care for our public spaces so future generations can enjoy the same beaches, parks and waterways we

Quarry Work

do today.”

A range of initiatives have contributed to the City’s continued Gold status, including smart water monitoring through an in-house meter data logger program, and a centralised irrigation system that helps maximise efficiency and quickly identify leaks across sporting ovals, reserves and public open spaces.

Investment in Dual Aquifer Irrigation Systems at key sites — including the Eastern Foreshore, Rushton Oval, Lakelands Oval and Bortolo Oval — has further strengthened water security by reducing reliance on deep groundwater and improving climate resilience in high-use community areas.

The City continues to prioritise Water Sensitive Urban Design, urban greening, and strong partnerships with developers to encourage more water-efficient and energy-conscious

development across Mandurah.

Protecting water quality and coastal health remains a strong focus, with initiatives such as the Cox Bay Lake hydrotalcite clay trial — delivered by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation with City support — helping reduce nutrients and limit algal growth within the Cox Bay lake system.

Major projects including the Southern Beaches Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan, the Town Beach seawall renewal and progress toward decommissioning the Tims Thicket Septage Facility demonstrate the City’s long-term approach to caring for its coastline and waterways.

“Water is precious and managing it wisely is something we all share responsibility for as a local government and as a community,” she said.

Hornsby Shire Council is continuing the long-term transformation of the former Hornsby quarry, with works now underway on the Old Mans Valley Field of Play as part of its vision to deliver Hornsby Park as a major regional recreation destination.

The Field of Play will be positioned as the primary entry point for Hornsby Park, delivering increased parking and a defined gateway that supports visitor access as it continues to open progressively.

The project will deliver a new multi-purpose sporting field and recreational green space, along with amenities. Pump and jump tracks will also be built, offering a dedicated area for bike riders to test their skills on gentle rises, dips and jumps.

Mayor Warren Waddell said that following the opening of the first stage of Hornsby Park earlier this year, the Old Mans Valley Field of Play project will play an important role in supporting Hornsby’s growing community.

“The project is designed to support existing residents, while also helping to meet the sporting needs of a growing population as part of the State led Transport Oriented Development in the Hornsby Town Centre, which is focused on delivering more homes close to public transport, jobs and services.”

Old Mans Valley Field of Play builds on mo-

New program coming

Thousands of kilos of potential food waste will be rescued to help feed the city’s most vulnerable – thanks to a new initiative launched at the Queen Victoria Market.

Surplus fresh produce will be sourced from some of the market’s biggest traders, including fresh fruit and vegetables, to be distributed each week to community food relief organisations across the city.

The initiative is being run by the Melbourne Food Rescue Network – a partnership of the City of Melbourne, Queen Victoria Market, STREAT and SecondBite, with support from the Victorian Government.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece welcomed the new program.

“No one in Melbourne should have to choose

between paying a bill and feeding their family,” he said.

“This food rescue program is about getting good food onto the plates of people who need it most.”

The Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere and the City of Melbourne’s biggest source of fresh produce.

The market generates up to 800 tonnes of surplus food and organic waste each year – the rough equivalent weight of nearly 30 Melbourne trams.

Recent City of Melbourne data paints a confronting picture of rising food insecurity across the municipality, with almost half of residents reporting difficulty accessing enough food in 2025.

Beyond providing immediate relief, the program will help build a healthier, more connected and more sustainable city by reducing food waste, supporting local communities and improving access to fresh, nutritious food.

Community and City Services portfolio head Gladys Liu said by bringing together traders, community groups and government, the pro-

gram will strengthen Melbourne’s food relief network and help more people get the support they need.

“This partnership shows what can happen when government, community organisations and local businesses work together to support people doing it tough,” she said.

“We’re continuing to invest in food relief, strengthening the community networks more people are relying on than ever before.”

Fostering healthy environmental habits

Applications for the Shire of Murray’s Healthy Habitats program are now open.

The program supports Rural, Special Rural and other Rural Residential landholders to increase, create and protect native vegetation, wetlands, threatened ecological communities and wildlife habitat on private property, contributing to stronger biodiversity outcomes and increased canopy cover across the Murray region.

Through the Healthy Habitats Program, landholders receive a site visit and ecological assessment with tailored management advice, assistance with funding, and ongoing bushland management support.

Shire President Douglas McLarty said

grant funding is available from a minimum of $100 up to a maximum of $1,000 for approved materials.

“Residents can apply for funding for eligible activities including fencing and access control, weed and animal pest control, revegetation of degraded areas, revegetation to support habitats, installation of habitat boxes or tubes and more,” added President McLarty.

The program aims to protect threatened flora and fauna species, safeguard significant habitat and nesting hollows for threatened species such as Black Cockatoos, increase urban canopy, improve vegetation condition

Clean with steam

and species diversity, and protect and rehabilitate natural areas on private land.

The Healthy Habitats Program aligns with the Shire’s Planet aspiration, which focuses on ensuring the natural environment is cared for and appreciated now and into the future.

The Shire President said “by working together, landholders and the Shire can protect and sustain natural areas for generations to come”.

Australia’s Local Government bodies provide indispensable services to rate payers throughout the country. They have a responsibility for everything from urban streetscapes to parks, gardens and amenities. Councils also provide a voice and platform for localised community. Keeping abreast of the latest aids to maintain these myriads of chores is no easy task.

AUSSIE’S CLEAN AND STEAM SOLUTION

Aussie Pumps introduced the Aussie Heatwave to local government bodies as a simple, highly effective machine that combines both high pressure and high temperature capabilities. Their compact Aussie Heatwave machine is a portable steam cleaner that provides 4,000 PSI pressure combined with a 130-degree maximum steam capability.

It’s that versatility, combining water pressure with heat that enables them to literally melt graffiti paint off surfaces that include concrete, brick, masonry and even painted steel. The result, a clean surface and sharply reduced labour hours. The Heatwave is powered by a 13-hp electric start Honda petrol engine. That engine provides the ignition to light the burner that is the heart of the diesel fuel powered heating system.

The Heatwave is compact and with all components encapsulated in a stainless-steel frame that has integrated handles, making it easy for the trolley mounted version to be moved around on site. The pump pressure is produced by a top-quality heavy duty triplex piston pump that can produce 13 lpm flow at 275 bar pressure.

“Although the machine comes standard in trolley mounted configuration with four steel wheels and flat-free tyres. The unit lends itself to trailer or utility vehicle mounting as well”, said Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer John Hales.

The Aussie Heatwave has also been a big success with earthmoving, and road maintenance plant, equipment wash down. Using the machine running at 100 degrees C can clear away grease and grime from the plant, making it easy for maintenance crews to service the equipment.

SANITISE AS WELL

The Heatwave in any of the configurations mentioned above is ideal for sanitising and clean-

ing park barbeques, public spaces and has the ability to clean food spills. The World Health Organisation widely published that germs can be killed by using high pressure steam with a capability of above 60 degrees C. Using the Heatwave can add additional capability to not only eliminate germs but to do it efficiently and safely!

AUSSIE’S SAFE OPERATOR PROGRAM

Australian Pump is a leader in developing high pressure Safety Training Programs for machine operators.

“We know that using high pressure equipment can be dangerous if the operators are not properly trained and machines maintained. Our Aussie Safe Operator Training Program is avail-

able to all local government bodies and is absolutely free of charge. A number of councils have already put their teams and staff through the training programs. It’s a certificate course and it’s all about getting the job done efficiently and with operators going home safe”, said Hales. Information on local government special prices is available from aussiepumps.com.au. Scan the QR Code for FREE Safety Training Course.

New tourism bus

Ballarat locals and visitors now have a new, affordable way to experience the city, with the launch of a Hop-On Hop-Off bus loop connecting four of Ballarat’s most popular attractions.

The service began on 27 June, in time for the iconic Ballarat Winter Festival, with the bus loop operating between 11am and 3pm, offering a continuous connection between Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Eureka Centre and the Ballarat Town Hall.

With an approximate 25-minute circuit, the service allows passengers to hop on and off throughout the day, making it easier to explore multiple attractions at their own pace and their own schedule.

The trial has been designed to remove common barriers for visitors, such as parking, navigation, public transport issues and time constraints, while also making it simple for locals to

share Ballarat with friends and family.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves, said the initiative was an exciting step forward for the city.

“This new hop-on hop-off service makes it easier than ever for people to experience the very best of Ballarat in one simple journey,” she said.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for locals to encourage their visiting friends and family to explore more of our city, while also showcasing how we continue to invest in tourism and visitor experiences, to benefit our community.”

John Pandazopoulos at Tourism Mid West

Looking for locals

Whyalla City Council is hoping local businesses will get involved as they officially open the tender process to construct Whyalla’s new Foreshore Centre building.

The building will incorporate the Surf Life Saving Club and a kiosk, as well as a cafe open to the community.

Mayor Phill Stone said this was yet another opportunity for local businesses to get involved with a major council / community project.

“This is a multi-million-dollar project that could represent a major cash injection for local businesses during construction,” Mayor Stone said.

“Even if they don’t have the capability to deliver the entire project, I’d encourage them to check out the sub-contracting opportunities, as it incorporates everything from earthworks and electrical; to roadworks and construction.”

Tenders close on Tuesday 4 August 2026.

The upgrade has been made possible by $5 million in State Government funding.

Victoria said the trial presented a valuable opportunity to strengthen visitor experiences across the region.

“By improving connectivity between key tourism experiences, we can encourage people to stay longer, discover more and contribute more to local businesses and the broader visitor economy,” he said.

Eureka Centre CEO, Anthony Camm, welcomed the initiative as a strong example of collaboration across Ballarat.

“This pilot reflects what can be achieved when Ballarat’s tourism partners work together to improve the visitor experience,” he said.

“We’re proud to be part of a connected network that encourages people to discover more of Ballarat’s rich history, culture and attractions.”

The trial is part of a broader effort to strengthen Ballarat’s tourism offering, encourage visitor dispersal across the city, and support local businesses.

For locals, it offers an easy way to experience the city from a fresh perspective — or to recommend a seamless itinerary to visiting friends and family.

The service will operate as a three-month trial, with performance and community feedback informing future opportunities, including the potential for a permanent offering.

Remote management for real-time signs

New Fire Danger Rating signs have been installed in Dwellingup, North Dandalup and Coolup, providing residents and visitors with timely access to critical bushfire and emergency information.

The new signs will display the daily Fire Danger Rating for the district, along with important messages relating to fire restrictions, Total Fire Bans, Harvest and Vehicle Movement Bans, weather warnings and emergency preparedness information.

A key feature of the new signs is their remote management capability, which allows Shire staff to update messaging in real time. This means information can be tailored to local conditions and changed quickly as circumstances evolve, helping residents and visitors stay informed and prepared.

Shire of Murray President Douglas McLarty said the signs have been strategically located to ensure communities in key areas of the Shire have easy access to up-to-date emergency information, particularly during the bushfire season.

“Community safety remains a priority for the Shire of Murray, and these new signs will play an important role in keeping residents and visitors informed about changing fire conditions and emergency management information,” said Mr McLarty.

Alcoa Pinjarra Refinery Operations Manager Jodie Giraudo said community safety is everyone’s responsibility, and these signs help ensure people have the information they need to act early. “Having clear, visible and up-to-date fire danger information in key locations helps people make informed decisions early, which can make a real difference in protecting lives and property during bushfire season,” said Ms. Giraudo.

stay informed about local conditions and ensure they have a bushfire plan in place during the fire season.

Barossa ready to host

Barossa will play host to Oceania’s largest flag football competition, Capture the Flag on 24-25 October 2026.

This premier international event will bring together teams and athletes from across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and beyond. More than 550 players and coaches to the region are expected to visit the region, together with their families, supporters and spectators, creating valuable opportunities for local businesses and contributing to the region’s economy.

Flag football, a variant of gridiron, has a strong following with several national and international competitions and in 2028 it will be a discretionary event for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Event organisers, Flag Football Australia said

“the event will strongly align with the first ever NFL game being played in Melbourne in September.

Mayor Bim Lange said while the Barossa continues to be a destination of choice for events of all formats and styles, it’s particularly exciting for the region to host a new sport of this calibre.

“It’s great to see a new sport come to the region and one that has such a strong following internationally,” he said.

“Hosting this competition creates an opportunity for people to witness the ultimate showcase of athleticism and strategy with athletes from all over Australia and the world. And Council is

Mildura takes flight

proud to be supporting this event.

“Council is proud to be supporting this event and it’s great to see our recreation facilities utilised for a range of different sports codes.”

Mayor Lange said securing this competition highlights the region’s broad appeal and its ability to attract major events that deliver significant economic and community benefits.

Capture the Flag competition will be held at Nuriootpa Centennial Park on 24-25 October. The event is proudly supported by The Barossa Council.

The majestic sight of hot air balloons over the skies of Mildura became a permanent fixture over the past week as Balloons over Mildura 2026 took flight again.

The nine-day hot air balloon festival featured more than 30 balloons taking flight across the region, launching in spectacular fashion on the Saturday night with the Night Glow event at Mildura Recreation Reserve.

Councillor for Events and Tourism Rebecca Crossling welcomed all competitors to the region, highlighting the exposure the event would generate.

“I want to thank Mildura International Balloon Fiesta Inc for bringing this event to our region, which also serves as the second round of the Australian Balloon Federation Hot Air Balloon Grand Prix,” Cr Crossling said.

“This event introduces a whole host of potentially new visitors from across the country to our beautiful region, generating more than $283,000 in economic benefit for our business community

given the event runs for more than a week.

“It also demonstrates the sheer diversity of events our region is capable of successfully hosting, particularly at this time of the year. We’re fortunate to be able to feature so many clear sunny days in the middle of winter, which lends itself to many outdoor events, making our region an attractive proposition.”

In addition to the competition, Global Ballooning were in the region for the entire week offering commercial hot air balloon flights.

Mildura Rural City Council is proud to partner with the event organisers through a $15,000 Event Fund and Support Grant.

While this week’s event was the second round of the hotly contested national Grand Prix, it also serves as elite pilot training ahead of the 2026 World Hot Air Balloon Championships in Poland.

Victoria Plains adds voice to campaigns

The Shire of Victoria Plains has taken its advocacy for better regional health outcomes to Canberra, joining local governments from across Australia in a united call for reforms that improve access to doctors and allied health services in regional communities.

The advocacy builds on a formal Council decision to support the policy positions of the Local Government Rural Health Funding Alliance and call for greater recognition of the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing primary healthcare.

Shire Chief Executive Officer Sean Fletcher and Deputy Shire President Cr Suzanne Woods attended the Local Government Rural Health Funding Alliance workshop in Canberra on 22 June, joining approximately 60 delegates from local governments, peak medical organisations and advocacy groups from across Australia.

The workshop highlighted the growing burden being placed on regional councils as communities across Australia struggle to attract and retain general practitioners, with many local governments contributing significant ratepayer funding to support health services that are traditionally the responsibility of state and federal governments.

Shire President Cr Pauline Bantock said access to healthcare was one of the most important issues affecting the future sustainability of regional communities.

“Regional communities deserve fair and equitable access to healthcare, regardless of where they

live,” Cr Bantock said.

“While the Shire of Victoria Plains has never had a resident GP, our community still depends on access to medical and allied health services through neighbouring towns. When those services come under pressure, our residents feel the impact immediately.

“This is why the Shire is supporting a coordinated national approach that recognises the unique challenges facing rural communities and delivers practical solutions for regional Australia.”

The Local Government Rural Health Funding Alliance is advocating for increased funding support for rural and remote communities, including block funding models designed to reflect the higher costs and workforce challenges associated with delivering healthcare in thin market environments. The Alliance also supports a Rural Generalist Service Model that would help create more sustainable multi-site medical practices across regional Australia.

Victoria Plains is not one of the Alliance’s founding members, however, Council has recognised that many of the same issues affecting remote communities are also impacting smaller rural local govern-

ments. The Shire has no local GP service, limited access to allied health providers and relies heavily on neighbouring districts to meet the healthcare needs of residents.

Cr Bantock said the workshop reinforced that healthcare access was becoming a nationwide challenge for regional communities.

“What became clear in Canberra is that communities across Australia are facing many of the same issues, regardless of which state they are in,” she said.

“Local governments are increasingly being asked to fill gaps in healthcare provision because communities cannot go without essential services, but that is not a sustainable long term solution.”

“Regional communities should not be left carrying an increasing share of the cost when healthcare is a responsibility that sits well beyond local government.”

Key outcomes from the workshop included developing a coordinated advocacy strategy focused on block funding and broader healthcare funding reform, formalising the Alliance at a national level and undertaking further research to better understand the financial impact being experienced by

local governments across Australia. Delegates also discussed incentives to improve doctor recruitment and retention in regional areas, including measures aimed at supporting newly qualified practitioners. The Shire’s participation in the Canberra workshop forms part of a broader advocacy program, with representatives meeting federal parliamentarians and policymakers to discuss regional healthcare challenges and other priorities affecting rural communities.

Cr Bantock said the advocacy effort was ultimately about ensuring regional communities remained places where people could live, work and age with confidence.

“Access to healthcare is fundamental to strong and resilient communities,” she said.

“If we want regional communities to attract families, support local businesses and provide quality of life for older residents, then access to healthcare must be part of the conversation.”

“The Shire of Victoria Plains will continue advocating alongside councils from across Australia to secure better outcomes for regional communities and ensure rural voices are heard at a national level.”

Townsville unimpressed by Qld budget

The Qld State Budget has fallen short of what the Townsville needs according to Mayor Nick Dametto.

He said while there were some positive announcements they are over-shadowed by a lack of investment in the infrastructure required to support Townsville’s growth.

“There are some inclusions in this Budget that will be welcome in Townsville including another $420 million for CopperString, funding for the Townsville University Hospital and the Townsville Correctional Centre, and the expansion of the Residential Activation Fund to $1 billion,” Cr Dametto said.

However, Cr Dametto said he was disappointed after Council had done significant work to ensure key projects were ready for funding.

“We’ve allocated funds in our own budget, completed the planning and the business cases

required to ensure these projects are shovelready. We’ve done our part, and we’re now relying on the State Government to play their part with the funding to deliver them,” he said.

“Projects vital to our community have been overlooked, including Haughton Pipeline Stage 2 and the Burdekin Pump Station, the Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct, Ross Creek Pedestrian Bridge, The Strand Rockpool redevelopment, upgrades to Riverway and Murray Sporting complex, and the critical Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

“These are essential projects for Townsville’s future and expected growth. Each is essential to support jobs, unlock investment and improve liveability, and they’re not going away. I under-

stand the State has their priorities but this time round they haven’t aligned with Councils.”

Cr Dametto said there was also a clear gap when it came to road infrastructure and water security.

“There’s no extra funding to address major bottlenecks like the ones on North Shore Boulevard and Woolcock Street. At this point there’s also no money allocated to secure Townsville’s a water supply through the Haughton Pipeline project.”

He said while cost-of-living measures and investment in housing and community safety were important, they did not replace the need for longterm infrastructure investment in regional cities.

“We have worked tirelessly to make sure State

and our local Members were across our city’s priorities. If Townsville is expected to accommodate more growth, the investment in water and social infrastructure has to follow,” he said.

Cr Dametto also made clear Council would not shift the burden onto local ratepayers for major projects.

“I will not be going back to Townsville ratepayers to pay for projects that should be attracting State and Federal Government funding,” he said.

“While I’m disappointed that Townsville has missed out on funding for key projects, it will only make me work harder. We have critical, shovelready projects that must be delivered and I look forward to working with the State Government to find a pathway forward.”

It’s a dog’s life

Both the tales and tails were heartwarming when Wollongong Library hosted a special adopt-a-dog storytime on Thursday 9 July 2026.

Locals young and old were invited to settle in to hear author Tim Brown read his newest release, Rusty is Rescued. Even better? The story didn’t just stay on the pages; joining Tim were some very impawtant guests from Wollongong City Council’s Pet Connection program which unites rescue animals with the loving homes they deserve.

Wollongong City Libraries Manager Jessica Bruce said the event was perfect for young readers, families and animal lovers alike, offering an engaging introduction to the responsibilities of pet ownership.

“Our adopt-a-dog storytime was about bringing books, families and rescues together in a fun and meaningful way. And who knows -the might have met their newest family member,” Jessica said.

“It’s was not just for potential pawrents either; our libraries are for everyone, and this event was no different. Visitors might have come along to

cuddle the dogs, keep the school holiday blues at bay, or just to get out of the house. There was room for everyone!”

Author Tim Brown, from Sydney’s south, said Rusty’s story was based on his experience adopting a red cattle dog and helping him adapt to life with a loving family.

“We rescued the real-life Rusty in 2020. The book is based off our experience and a rescue pets’ journey through the foster care system. Our rescue cats — Tuffy and Monkey — feature as well,” he said.

Beyond promoting adoption, Tim was also hoping to get both kids and adults talking about pet body language and how animals might feel in different situations.

“I’m super passionate about rescue animals and I love the idea that this book can inspire and educate kids across Australia and beyond. If it can spark conversation and help change the

Innovation award win

Kwinana Public Library’s popular Kids Clothing Swap won the Library Board of WA’s Innovation and Collaboration Award in the Metro and Large Regional category on Thursday, 2 July.

The clothing swap started as a pilot circularity program in April 2025 with 48 families, since growing into a keystone school holiday program with 621 people participating across four sessions in the past year.

The range of sizes was expanded over time based on family feedback to accommodate donations for ages 0 to 12 years.

Mayor Peter Feasey said the popular program brought families together in a safe and comfortable way to share, keep clothes out of landfill, and meet very real community needs by offering free access to good quality clothing as cost-of-living pressures increase.

“The library worked with families at an early literacy program to develop a format suitable for Kwinana’s community,” Mayor Feasey said.

“Many barriers were removed by making the program free, adjusting times of pick-ups to meet community needs, not requiring families to donate to be able to take clothes, and donating the remaining clothes to local organisations. In one year, there’s been a 150 per cent increase in the number of people donating clothes and a 500 per cent increase in the number of families taking clothes, with 562kg of textiles diverted from landfill.

Educational materials were also developed with the City’s Environment and Waste team to encourage families to preference natural sustainable fabrics over fast fashion, delivering on the City’s Sustainability Framework.

The Kwinana Public Library received $5000 as part of the award.

“Libraries are well-known for their role in circularity through loaning books, toys, and other materials, and for being a place of community connection,” Mayor Peter Feasey said.

“The Kid’s Clothes Swap program has been a creative way to utilise these strengths to address the environmental problem of textile waste,” he said.

New hub is ready to go

lives of even a few rescue pets along the way, I’ll be happy.

“Because every Rusty deserves a forever home.”

He called partnering with Wollongong Pet Connection for storytime “really exciting” with real-life rescue dogs coming for cuddles and to maybe meet their forever family.

The Council-led Pet Connection program works to reunite lost pets with their owners and foster or rehome those that are unclaimed or surrendered. Since launching in 2024, the award-winning program has significantly improved animal welfare outcomes and increased community engagement. This has resulted in the adoption of almost 1,000 pets (and counting!) and nearly 300 registered foster carers.

Attending the storytime were a number of pets currently available for adoption through the program.

Wollondilly Shire Council has officially opened the new multifaceted recreation area at Redbank Park, delivering a vibrant new space for play, connection and wellbeing.

The official opening on 2 July was attended by Mayor Matt Gould, Greg Warren MP, NSW Government Representative, Judy Hannan, Member for Wollondilly, along with local students who helped celebrate the new community facility.

Mayor Gould thanked the NSW Government for funding over $2 million through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.

As part of the day, students from Picton High School spoke about how the park will support young people as a place to meet, recharge and study outdoors.

Mayor Matt Gould said the upgraded park is designed to support the whole community.

“Redbank Park is now a place where people of all ages can come together, whether it’s for play, exercise, playing with the dog, meeting friends, or simply enjoying some time outside,” Mayor Gould said.

“It was fantastic to hear from Picton High School students speaking about the park as a study hub. This outdoor study space has a range of seating options and a device charging station, which is a fantastic addition.”

“This is exactly what this project is about, creating a welcoming space that locals will use in lots of different ways.”

Delivered as part of the Redbank Park Master Plan the space includes: accessible amenities building, playspace, off-leash dog areas for large and small breeds, carparking, outdoor fitness equipment and an open seating area with charging ports for outdoor study.

Mayor Gould thanked the NSW Government for its contribution through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.

“This project is a great example of what we can achieve when we work in partnership,” he said. “We’re grateful for the NSW Government’s support through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program to help bring this important community space to life.”

National recognition

Ku-ring-gai Council has received national recognition for its innovative approach to transport-oriented development, earning a Commendation at the prestigious 2026 Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) National Awards for Planning Excellence.

The Commendation in the Strategic Planning category highlights Council’s outstanding work on its transport-oriented development (TOD) alternative.

Ku-ring-gai Council was the only local government recognised in the category and competed against major state government-led projects.

Mayor Christine Kay said it was an honour for Council to be recognised for its work in balancing the needs for more housing while protecting heritage and the environment.

“The TOD alternative will help protect Ku-ring-gai’s built heritage and enviable tree canopy while providing more housing for our growing population.

“We want to thank the local community for their ongoing involvement in developing an alternative policy that meets the unique needs of our area.”

The Judges commended the work of Kuring-gai Council in developing the plan: “They have shown courage and resilience to progress this important project and to offer an alternative vision for the precinct that is attuned to the lo-

More infrastructure is sorely needed

Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun has welcomed elements of the NSW Budget that provide cost of living relief, while calling on both the State and Federal Governments to commit to the major infrastructure needed to support Southwest Sydney’s rapid growth.

Mayor Mannoun said measures including the reduction in the weekly toll cap, a freeze on public transport fares and the vehicle registration cut would offer some immediate relief to local families.

“Southwest Sydney is home to some of the longest commuters in the country, and many households rely heavily on their cars just to get to work, education and essential services,” Mayor Mannoun said.

“Any relief is welcome, but these measures address short term pressures without fixing the underlying issue, which is a lack of accessible, reliable public transport.”

Mayor Mannoun said the budget fell short in delivering the new Metro and rail infrastructure needed to transform connectivity across the region.

“The long-term solution is clear. We need a serious commitment to extending Metro and rail across Southwest Sydney so people can get to jobs and services faster and more affordably,” he said.

“Without that investment, our communities will continue to face long travel

times, congestion and limited access to opportunity.”

Mayor Mannoun said while infrastructure spending was highlighted in the budget, much of it reflects previously announced projects rather than new investment targeted to Southwest Sydney.

“Our region is one of the fastest growing in the state, yet we are still waiting for the infrastructure to catch up,” he said.

“This is not just about transport. It is about unlocking housing, supporting local jobs and ensuring our communities have the services they need.”

Mayor Mannoun said Liverpool City Council would continue to advocate strongly for coordinated investment from both levels of government.

“We are ready to work in partnership with the NSW and Australian Governments on the next wave of Metro and rail investment across Southwest Sydney,” he said.

“Our residents deserve the same level of access, connectivity and opportunity as the rest of Sydney.”

cal community needs and vision. This precinct sets a strong example of how strategic planning done well can achieve significant benefit for the local community.”

The plan is expected to deliver a 93 per cent improvement in managing transitions between existing buildings and new development, an 80 per cent reduction in impacts on heritage conservation areas, and over 70 per cent less tree canopy loss and far greater potential for revitalisation of local retail centres.

The TOD alternative applies seven planning principles, with a strong evidence base, and

involved deep community engagement. With clear methods and targets, it demonstrates how a well-planned, place-based approach to density can help address the housing crisis while maintaining local character and amenity.

The strategic planning project also won the top award at the 2025 PIA NSW Awards last November.

PIA is the peak body for planning in Australia and holds national awards annually at its Planning Congress.

New era for Logan fundraising

The City of Logan’s Charitable (CoLCT) Trust is set to mark a new chapter with the return of the Mayor’s Charity Gala The Gala is returning to the Logan events calendar to reconnect the Trust’s revived Board with the Logan community and grow its capacity to provide grants and charitable support where it is needed most.

It is hoped the event will build on the success of the Trust’s inaugural Game Changers fundraising event in 2025.

CoLCT Chair, Dr John Gilmour, said the Mayor’s Charity Gala would bring the community together for a shared purpose – supporting those who need it most.

“As the City of Logan Charitable Trust continues to grow, this event will help strengthen our connection with the community and raise essential funds that can be directed back into charities that improve lives across Logan,” Dr Gilmour said.

The Beenleigh Events Centre will be transformed into an enchanted garden, complete with colour, light and a touch of magic.

Guests will enjoy a premium three-course dining experience, beverage package, live entertainment, inspiring guest speakers and exciting fundraising activities and prizes throughout the evening.

The event offers the community an opportunity to learn more about the work of the CoLCT and how it is helping create lasting, positive outcomes for the Logan community.

Proud to host Deaf Games

The Sunshine Coast welcomed more than 1,200 athletes, officials, volunteers and supporters from across Australia and the Pacific for the 2026 Australian Deaf Games from 4–11 July, 2026.

Recognised as the pinnacle multi-sport event for deaf athletes in Australia, the Australian Deaf Games transformed the region into a vibrant hub of sport, culture and connection – celebrating deaf identity while showcasing elite and community competition across up to 20 sports.

First announced in 2023, following a successful bid by Sunshine Coast Council and Tourism and Events Queensland, the Games have been years in the making, with the region preparing to host one of the country’s most inclusive and culturally significant sporting festivals.

As a major sponsor and host city, Council is proud to support this nationally significant event.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Games celebrated the achievements of deaf athletes on a national stage while highlighting Council’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility.

“It’s an opportunity to showcase our region as a welcoming place for everyone,” Mayor Natoli said before the games.

“This event will also inject spending into our local economy, supporting accommodation providers, restaurants and cafes, retailers and tourism operators during the winter period.

“We look forward to seeing athletes achieve their own Sunshine moments together, both on and off the field.”

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, and Acting Minister for Sport and Racing and Acting Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Andrew Powell said securing the event further cemented Queensland as the nation’s sporting capital.

“We’re proud to back events like the Australian Deaf Games that put inclusion front and centre and give athletes the stage they deserve,”

Minister Powell said.

“This is exactly the kind of major event that drives our visitor economy - bringing more than 11,000 visitor nights and a $2.5 million boost to local businesses across the Sunshine Coast.

“As we build towards Brisbane 2032, we’re investing in sport that’s inclusive, accessible and leaves a lasting legacy for communities across Queensland.”

Through Deaf Connect, a number of frontline businesses and venues embraced the opportunity to build more inclusive visitor experiences

in the lead up to the Games.

Staff from Sunshine Coast Airport, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and Caloundra RSL have undertaken Deaf Awareness Training, and staff at selected Council-operated venues have undertaken basic Auslan training, helping to ensure visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing feel welcomed and supported throughout their stay.

This proactive approach is expected to leave a positive legacy for the region’s accessibility and customer service standards.

In a joint statement, Games Ambassadors

“The Australian Deaf Games are such a special moment for our community – it’s a place where deaf athletes can come together, compete, connect and celebrate who we are.

“For many of us, the Games have been a huge part of our journey in sport, and now to see them here on the Sunshine Coast is incredibly exciting.

“These Games are about pride, resilience, and inspiring the next generation of deaf athletes to get involved and believe in what’s possible.

“We can’t wait to see everyone come together to create unforgettable moments throughout the week.”

Competition took place across multiple venues, including the Caloundra Indoor Stadium, Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct at Currimundi and Kawana Sports Precinct, hosting sports such as basketball, netball, futsal, table tennis, pickleball and touch football.

Complementing the competition was an extensive social program designed to bring the Deaf community together and showcase the Sunshine Coast experience.

Across the week, participants took part in activities including:

· The official Opening Ceremony at Caloundra Indoor Stadium

· Cultural experiences such as deaf Indigenous dance and Auslan-accessible tours

· Local tours and attractions like Australia Zoo, whale watching and coastal cruises

· The Closing Ceremony at Kings Beach Amphitheatre