Winter is one of my favourite times of the year and a great time to explore Golden Plains; with our award-winning wine region and eateries, stunning natural landscapes to explore with friends and family and farmers’ markets to help make warm nights at home even better with top-notch food and drink. So, before you plan to explore afield this winter, why not see what’s close to home first?
UPDATE: DRAFT 2016-17 COUNCIL BUDGET
Council’s draft 2016-17 Budget, 2013-17 Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan were available for public inspection throughout May on Council’s website, at our Linton and Bannockburn Customer Service Centres and the Bannockburn Library. During May, Council encouraged the community to make submissions as it was an important opportunity to have a say in how Council will implement its strategies and determines the priorities for the next four years. Council also released information to address ‘frequently asked questions’ from the community and posted them online. Written submissions closed on 30 May, and there will be a special public meeting of Council to hear submissions on Tuesday 14 June at the Bannockburn Shire Hall, starting at 6pm
SEEING THE RESULTS OF COUNCIL LOBBYING
Council has put great effort into lobbying for improvements to the Midland Highway, and in May this saw positive results. The Federal Budget included more than $10 million for the construction of four new overtaking lanes between Bannockburn and Meredith and $300,000 for feasibility planning for the duplication of the Midland Highway between Geelong and Bannockburn. Council would like to see the Federal opposition also commit to improving this important link between to major regional centres.
The Federal Government has also committed up to $220,000 for the upgrade of lighting facilities at the Inverleigh Sporting Complex oval. This is a great example of where Council works to connect community projects with the right people – advocacy for the community is a key function of Council and we are always pleased to see results like these.
COUNCIL’S BUSINESS BREAKFAST
On 5 May I joined 70 business and industry representatives from the region for a networking breakfast at Clyde Park Vineyard Bistro. We enjoyed an inspiring keynote address from Julie Cameron, owner/operator of Meredith Dairy, one of Golden Plains' well-known food enterprises (famous for their impeccable cheeses). The event was a great success, with many local business people taking the opportunity to catch up out of business hours. Council looks forward to the next one on 25 August – please contact Council if you are interested in attending.
Finally, community consultation continues for the Northern Settlement Strategy – Council’s plan to guide sustainable development in the northern half of the Shire to 2030. Residents can find out more at our Northern Settlement Strategy consultation page at www.goldenplainsdigital.com.au/consultations/ Additionally, Golden Plains businesses are invited to fill out our Business Survey, which you can also find on our consultations page.
Cr Des Phelan
Mayor, Golden Plains Shire Council