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COMMUNITY SERVICES HIGHLIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANT ISSUES REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2011
Author: DIRECTOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
Purpose
To review Community Services Department highlights and significant issues for the month ending 30 September 2011.
Background and Discussion
Highlights and Significant Issues for September 2011 are as follows: -
COMMUNITY SERVICES HIGHLIGHTS
The 2011 Senior Directory is now available from Community Development. An online version of the directory is being finalised and will be available in the near future.
Australian Literacy Educators Association (ALEA) gave a pack of literacy resources to babies born through this week at the Mackay Base and Mater hospitals.
The first formal committee meeting was held to discuss the 2012 RACQ Insurance North Queensland Games. The committee comprises members from Mackay Regional Council, past and present North Queensland Sports Foundation members from Mackay and Whitsunday and local sport and recreation representatives. The Games will be held from 22-25 June 2012 across the Mackay region, also incorporating Whitsundays.
Active in the City is now being extended to incorporate City Style Walks, free to the public on Saturday, October 29. A local fashion designer will conduct three sessions, to offer fashion tips, discuss what looks good this Spring and even offer personal styling advice.
Surrealism travelling exhibition held at the MECC.
Meeting at SLQ to discuss up-coming case study project for Economic Value of Public Libraries. Project will commence 17 October.
COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGEMENT
Meetings held with Libraries Alive to discuss content and process for library service review.
Community Plan stakeholder consultation completed.
Father‟s Day fun run held on the Bluewater Trail.
CBD CCTV policy and tender progressed.
REDC AGM attended.
Coal to Coast meeting held.
Attended discussions with Sarina RSL and Main Roads regarding RSL Memorial.
Participated in recruitment interviews for sales and marketing coordinator at the MECC.
Mackay Regional Priorities document workshop discussions held.
Local Community Campaign - Health - Indigenous Funding Application submitted.
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COMMUNITY SERVICES TRAINING
Manager Community Development & Libraries attended LGMA Conference in Yeppoon.
Anna Thurgood, Exhibitions Curator, Artspace Mackay, spent two weeks in Canberra at the National Gallery of Australia on a mentorship awarded to her by Museum and Gallery Services Queensland. Anna met many inspiring and knowledgeable gallery workers and was able to gain a lot of hands on experience and advice that she can apply back here at Artspace.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND LIBRARIES
Management
Attended a Library by Design workshop at State Library.
Attended meeting with Mackay Historical Society as part of formalising the handover of assets.
Facilitated a Community Plan Stakeholders meeting.
Conducted a FISH training session for group of Civil Operations staff at Paget.
Community Development
Seniors week activities were held during September with the expo held at the Senior Citizens Centre being well supported. This year the Walkerston Neighbourhood Centre group again held their mystery bus tour with approximately 60 people touring the Sarina region.
The All Abilities Expo held on Sunday 18 September was considered a success as were the other smaller events held throughout Disability Awareness week.
An „Inclusion‟ breakfast will be held at 6.30am on Monday 14 November 2011. The event will be opened by the Mayor with invitations being issued from the Mayor‟s office. Mr Ric Thompson, Inclusion Works Townsville, along with other personalities will highlight inclusion and its value to the life of the individual and to the organizations/groups in which they are involved. Expressions of Interest will be available for those groups interested in more information or assistance with policy and procedure development within their organizations to ensure they are more inclusive.
The homelessness project team is soon to meet with an external resource officer to discover what other regions are doing to address homelessness issues. The team is also undertaking a survey to identify homeless people and their needs and looking at planning a Homeless Expo where free services would be available for the day. It is hoped that the work being undertaken together with the work of the sub groups will eventually form the basis of a Homelessness Action Plan.
Community Projects
A „Unit Watch‟ project, an initiative with Queensland Police Service, Department of Housing, and other stakeholders, seeks to work with residents of an identified block of units in Mackay. The project is looking to improve safety, reduce crime, improve communication and connections between residents. The project is in the initial stages with the steering committee having just been established.
A three year project aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Sarina residents has begun in conjunction with Queensland Health. The project aims to promote social inclusion, community connectedness, community safety, and increase opportunities for physical activities. Other partners in the project are Department of Communities, Education Queensland and the Sarina community. Meetings are held quarterly.
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The Carpooling project is well underway. This project aims to link people who want to carpool to and from work or study. It aims to reduce congestion on the roads, reduce green house gas emissions. The website has been launched to council staff and will be launched to the public in early to mid November. The launch will be on the council front lawn with a BBQ breakfast, Hot FM and Sea FM cars present and the opportunity to go in to a draw to win prizes if people join the carpooling website prior to the launch or on the day of the launch. Information packs will also be available to hand out to the public.
Indigenous Affairs
An application has been submitted to the Commonwealth Government through the Local Community Campaigns program. If successful it is planned to partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service and North‟s Leagues club to deliver a range of programs aimed at improving the health outcomes of the local indigenous community.
A Reconciliation Learning Circle program is being developed in conjunction with members of the indigenous community. Members of the community will have the opportunity to share information and develop better relationships within the community through participation in the program.
Multicultural Partnership Program
A workshop for cultural groups on how to become incorporated was held during September with representatives from the Nepalese, Indian and Indonesian community attending. Participants were given information on the processes required and the legal implications from becoming incorporated bodies. Ongoing support will be provided as required.
The Workforce Council, George Street Neighbourhood Centre and Council LAMP Officers worked together to deliver the “Do you speak my Language” seminar. Approximately 80 people attended to better understand how to respond to the needs of our increasingly diverse community.
Multicultural CAMS
The Australian South Sea Islander Recognition dinner was a great success with over 300 people attending. Participants were drawn from Mackay, Bundaberg, Tweed Heads, Weipa, Sunshine Coast and other areas. Feedback from those who attended, both ASSI and non-ASSI community members, was positive. Following this event Multicultural Affairs Queensland have asked for a report on the success of this dinner and associated events.
In order to raise awareness members of the Australian South Sea Islander community will have a stall at this year‟s Global Grooves event to sell key rings and t-shirts and are hoping to have some children represent the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu in the Costume Parade.
Discussions have begun with key stakeholders to plan events in 2013 to mark the 150th year since Australian South Sea Islanders began working in Queensland's sugar plantations.
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Youth Development
MRC Youth Team commenced meetings and discussions towards the formation of a Regional Youth Council. It is hoped that this will lead to the development of a strong regional youth voice. The challenges will be how best to engage and meet the needs of young people across the region.
In the lead up to Youth Week 2012 the youth team will be encouraging young people to participate in a “Beat It” project. Young people will be invited to submit art works of any displayable form (free standing, sculpture, paintings, posters, photos/graphics) with the display of the art pieces being held at the Pinnacle Playhouse in conjunction with the 2012 National Youth Week performance by the Valley District Youth Council. The “Beat It” theme is being used to encourage young people to explore the issue of bullying.
Rural Engagement
Springfest was held in Calen on 17 September. This year a range of activities were held in and around Calen which has resulted in approximately $4,500 being raised to support a number of community organisations in the Calen district.
Midge Point Progress Association have successfully become an incorporated association. Community Development is now assisting the group with the structural issues to ensure they operate efficiently.
Support is being provided to the newly formed committee in Marian as it comes together to identify and meet the needs of residents in Marian.
Sister City
Organising of the Matsuura tour itinerary, in conjunction with the Advisory Committee, for the upcoming November tour is well underway. At this stage ten Mackay Citizens are participating in the tour.
Applications are currently being sought for the Mackay-Matsuura Scholarship Program. The Scholarship students from this year‟s tour which was cancelled due to the natural disasters will be transferred over to the 2012 tour if they still wish to participate.
Resilience Program
In conjunction with Volunteering Queensland the Resilience Officer has initiated a Business Roundtable to build resilience of the business community regarding natural disasters. Whilst attedance rates were poor, those who attended are committed to better preperation through developing action plans.
“Code Red Training” is being rolled out in Walkerston and Hamden Valley areas in conjunction with the progress associations in these areas. The program focuses on emergency / disaster planning and preparedness and ultimatley building the resilience of communities.
Mackay Regional Council along with many other agencies and services hold „special needs registers‟ to assist them to repond to vunerable people in the event of a disaster event. The Resilience Office has commenced discussions with these agencies to improve the management of these lists as some members of the community are contacted upto 18 times prior to an event while other vulnerable members of the community are „falling through the gaps.‟
“Weather the Storm – Disaster Resilient Communities,” is a program offered by National Rural Women's Coalition. This program will work with groups of women in communities at risk of, or recovering from, disaster.The program will facilitate women‟s awareness of potential disaster and support them to prepare. It will also connect participants together, to build a group for ongoing support, encouragement and community resilience. The program will be rolled out in Victoria during November 2011. Mackay will be the first Queensland Local Council area to offer the program in partnership with the National Rural Women's Coalition. It is planned to have this training program offered in Mackay in the Eungella and Finch Hatton area in April 2012.
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Libraries
General
Friends of Mackay Libraries Inc launched the Compact Prints Exhibition at Gordon White Library on Thursday 15 September. In attendance were four of the five local artists which feature in the exhibition, Friends of the Library, Cr Ross Walker and library staff.
The exhibition weaves together an extended global family of printmakers and gives a sweeping glance at the many possibilities of printmaking.
The art embraces traditional, non-toxic and technological methods, showcasing a range of familiar and hybrid printmaking methods including lino, relief, lithograph, mezzotint, aquatint, photopolymer and digital showcasing North Queensland‟s printmaking talent alongside national and international artists.
Local artists Yvonne SaintMartin, Diane Patmore, Heather Walker, Alison Fenech, Friends of Mackay Libraries Inc President –Rod Poole, Secretary – Mavis Peacock, Treasurer – Margaret Wright and members of Friends of Mackay Libraries.
Young People’s Services
Spring into the library was the theme of our successful school holiday activities during September. Children from prep to Year 7 made kites, masquerade masks and pinwheels in the first week. During the second week children decorated a little pot, filled it with potting mix and planted basil, marigolds or nasturtiums. Many children reported that the kites flew well and it is hoped that their plants have also grown successfully. 210 children attended the activities.
September was also a busy time for school visits with 276 students and teachers visiting Gordon White, Mackay City and Mirani libraries.
Young People‟s Services and Friends of Mackay Library were involved in National Literacy Week initiative Books for Babies. The Friends bought board books for the new babies. Packs were given to 23 babies.
Event Previous year Current year
Storytime 796 676
Baby Bounce 73 64
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Heinrich Horak (6) with his kite at Gordon White library
Young Adult Services
Several local teenage girls, (and one brave boy) had the opportunity to don period costume and have some lovely sepia toned photos taken as part of this month‟s Finally it‟s Friday afternoon. “The Jane Eyre Look” was a fun way to spend an afternoon while contemplating what life in the Victorian era might have entailed.
Friends of the Mackay Libraries
The Friends of Mackay Libraries book sale was held at the Mackay City Library from 7th September – 10th September.
An afternoon tea was held for the Friends followed by a Book Sale preview with local schools and day care centres. $3620.35 was raised from the book sale.
Event Previous year Current year
Finally it‟s Friday 11
Movie Night 14
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Statistics
Computer Use and Classes Previous year Current year
Discover IT Classes (participants) 48 56
Public Computers - Users 2,645 1,858
Public Computers – Bookings 3,045 2,872
Public Computers – Express Computers 971 997
Public Computers – Wireless (hrs) 287 393
Information Requests Previous year Current year
Ask a Librarian Queries 5 6
Interlibrary loans – Customer requests 153 73
Interlibrary loans – Library requests 77 102
Reference/Phone Enquires (Sample Period - 19 September-1 October 2011)
Previous year Current year
Reference < 5 minutes 972 921
Reference > 5 minutes 211 210
Phone < 5 minutes 1,023 990
Phone > 5 minutes 160 112
Top Website Visits Previous year Current year
Total Website Visits 15,755 35,448
Website Visits - WebOPAC Not available 23,444
Website Visits - Home 9,916 8,227
Website Visits - Branches 696 707
Website Visit - Online Resources 577 573
Website Visits – My Details & Membership 265 311
Website Visits – For Kids 297 157
Website Visits – Catalogue Page n/a 156
Website Visits – For Kids – School Holiday Activities
n/a 118
Website Visits – Services n/a 114
Website Visits – Mackay Libraries‟ Databases n/a 113
Website Visit - Activities & Events n/a 91
Website Visits – Ask the Library 359 86
Database Visits Previous year Current year
Databases - EBO 422 947
Databases - Newsbank 1 6
Databases - EBSCO Host 35 9
Databases - Thompson Gale 20 7
Databases - Your Tutor 48 19
Databases – The Computer School n/a 1,893
Heritage Collection Room Previous year Current year
Total Users 41 83
Research Enquiries * up to 1 hr research required
7 8
Microfilm Reader Bookings 55 45
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Membership and loan statistics
New members
Library Branch Previous Year Current Year
Gordon White Library 124 129
Mackay City Library 213 138
Mirani Library 10 14
Mobile Library 19 14
Sarina Library 38 22
Walkerston Library 22 12
Loans
Library Branch Previous Year Current Year
Gordon White Library 27,503 32,222
Mackay City Library 30,593 24,607
Mirani Library 3,045 2,768
Mobile Library 4,657 3,046
Sarina Library 5,028 4,864
Walkerston Library 2,723 2,559
Visitors
Library Branch Previous Year Current Year
Gordon White Library 13,109 12,509
Mackay City Library 13,633 12,230
Mirani Library 1,585 1,742
Mobile Library 1,598
Sarina Library 3,885
Walkerston Library 3,958
Sarina Historical Society and Museum Inc
Rick Baberowski and Cr. Wendy Cameron attended the Field of Dreams meeting to discuss what is happening with the Mackay Showcase
“Charlie” the fire engine is to be restored Visitor Numbers
110 adults and 31 children for the month Greenmount Homestead / Museums Co-ordinator
Set up sugar strike display in Resource Centre.
Held organising committee meeting for 2012 Heritage Fair.
Meeting at Mackay Museum to finalise Property services paperwork etc.
Attended official launch of M150 logo.
Attended sesquicentenary meeting.
Acquired sleepers and a set of steps for our Heritage Veg garden project. Visitor Numbers
98
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RECREATION SERVICES
Management / Sport and Recreation
Council‟s Recreation Services program, in conjunction with Council‟s Economic Development program, announced the continuation of the „Active... in the City‟ free physical activity program until end of June 2012. Over 300 registrations were received in the initial three month program, which was partly funded through the Federal Governments „Swap it, don‟t stop it‟ campaign and ended in the successful Father‟s Day Fun Run on the Bluewater Trail early September. A presentation was made to the providers who have been involved in the initial program at a Council morning tea.
Staff from Recreation Services and Community Development have worked with Inclusion Oz and Mackay Sporting Wheelies to plan a Sport and Recreation Inclusion Seminar to be held in Mackay in November. This will include information for clubs and organisations on how to best include those people with disabilities into main stream sport and recreational groups.
The „Father‟s Day Fun Run‟ along the Bluewater Trail, now in its second year, was another success with approximately 150 people taking part in the event. This event was proudly organised by the Mackay Road Runners, ABC Tropical North and Council‟s Recreation Services and Corporate Communications programs.
Active... in the City Providers Father's Day Fun Run Participants
Media / PR Media Coverage
Father‟s Day Fun Run.
Re-opening of Sarina Swimming Pool with new Lessee and improved community access.
Memorial Swim Centre – modifications of opening hours.
NQ Sports Bursary beneficiary Kiredin Duffy and his plans for the future.
Linda MacKenzie's (ex-Olympian) love of the Mackay‟s lifestyle and passion for Bluewater Trail.
Council‟s funding application to enhance a section of the Bluewater Trail (from the Quay to Sandfly Creek).
Proposed bulkhead and heating for Pioneer Swim Centre.
Extension of the Active...in the City program until end June 2012.
Morning tea presentation with Council regarding the Active...in the City fitness providers.
General
The audio ads for the Learn to Swim Come & Try Day were finalised and aired.
The aquatics-themed Council Connect was aired on television during September.
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LGAQ‟s Healthy Communities Bulletin feature regarding Mackay's Bluewater Trail.
Aquatic Facilities Bluewater Lagoon
Top lagoon fencing works commenced, enabling the top area to be isolated pending facility usage and in the unlikely event of an emergency situation arising.
Facility experiences excellent attendance during the hot and dry September school holiday period.
Memorial Pool
Bookings 5 x water polo training sessions 2 x school groups 7 x community group sessions 3 x Pioneer Club nights 1 x 2 day Great Barrier Reef Swimming Carnival
Refresher training regarding lifeguarding, First Aid and CPR took place with existing staff.
Pioneer Pool
Bookings 1 x school groups 1 x community group
Recruitments activities were finalised to cater for the increased demand for services during the Spring/Summer period.
The September holiday intensive program was successfully held during the school holidays with positive attendance.
A “Come & Try” assessment day was held on 23 September in preparation for Term 4 bookings.
The squad program has grown significantly necessitating the presence of 3 coaches each afternoon to facilitate the influx of keen young swimmers, nippers, and fitness seekers.
The multi-purpose building work was completed, including: - New flooring - Painting - Relocation of administration office - Installation of fans and air conditioner - Installation of security screens - Cabling and reconnection of telephones/computers
Multi-Purpose Building Administration Office Multi-Purpose Building Meeting Room Mirani Pool
Facility reopens following winter shutdown.
Repair of underground leak.
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Sarina Pool
Facility reopens following winter shutdown with new Lessee‟s in place. The following customers have attended the Aquatic Facilities for September 2011: Bluewater Lagoon* Average Water Temperature - 20oC
Type of Customer Bluewater Lagoon
September 2010
Bluewater Lagoon
September 2011
Children‟s Lagoon 5,127 4,005
Middle Lagoon 9,661 7,901
Upper Lagoon 3,395 2,830
TOTAL IN WATER CUSTOMERS 18,183 14,736
TOTAL PRECINCT (non-swimmers) 25,388 18,473
GRAND TOTAL 43,571 33,209
* Source: Lifeguard Statistics - Monthly Reports September 2011 - Visitations PDF by Surf Lifesaving Queensland (SLSQ)
Memorial Pool** Average Water Temperature - 26.25oC
Type of Customer Memorial Pool September 2010
Memorial Pool September 2011
Persons 15 years or older 930 653
Children from 3 years to persons under 15 years 231 239
Pensioner 53 58
TOTAL 1,214 950
Multi Visit Pass (persons 15 years or older) 97 39
Total Kiosk Revenue $3,210.75 $3,873.70
** Source: Monthly Reconciliation Spreadsheet (Microsoft Excel)
Pioneer Pool** Average Water Temperature - 21oC
Type of Customer Pioneer Pool
September 2010 Pioneer Pool
September 2011
Persons 15 years or older 445 363
Children from 3 years to persons under 15 years 338 309
Pensioner 25 15
TOTAL 808 687
Multi Visit Pass (persons 15 years or older) 23 25
Total Kiosk Revenue $2,175.95 $2,344.80
** Source: Monthly Reconciliation Spreadsheet (Microsoft Excel)
Mirani Pool*** Average Water Temperature - 21oC
Type of Customer Mirani Pool
September 2010 Mirani Pool
September 2011
Persons 15 years or older
Closed
322
Children from 3 years to persons under 15 years 188
Pensioner 0
TOTAL 510
*** Source: Information received from Lessee of Mirani Pool
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Sarina Pool**** Average Water Temperature - 22oC
Type of Customer Sarina Pool **
September 2010 Sarina Pool *
September 2011
Persons 15 years or older
Closed
141
Children from 3 years to persons under 15 years 426
Pensioner 0
TOTAL 567
*Source: Information received from Lessee of Sarina Pool **Source: Information Mackay Regional Council data
Revenue Received:**
Type of Customer Pioneer Pool Memorial Pool
September 2010
September 2011
September 2010
September 2011
Actual Gate $3,724.00 $3,408.50 $7,607.00 $4,828.50
Season Tickets $1,340.00 $1,050.00 $2,225.00 $2,145.00
Miscellaneous $2,411.52 $2,357.40 $3,389.00 $4,225.30
TOTAL $7,475.52 $6,815.90 $13,221.00 $11,198.80
Multi-visit pass sales component of Actual Gate
$690.00 $816.00 $2,910.00 $1,248.00
** Source: Monthly Reconciliation Spreadsheet (Microsoft Excel)
PROPERTY SERVICES
Management
Participated in meeting with relevant officers and staff to progress investigations into End of Trip facilities at the Main Administration Building, discussions included alterations to amenities and bike racks.
Presentation of the Field of Dreams Master plan with key stakeholders in Sarina, the plan was generally accepted with further discussion to be held at the next Field of Dreams Advisory Committee meeting.
Participated in meetings to review Open Space, Sports and Recreation and Environmental Zones in the new Planning Scheme.
Attended meeting to discuss the possible relocation of the Sarina Cenotaph with representatives from the Sarina RSL, Main Roads and Council, agreement reached that the Cenotaph would remain in its existing location and that Main Roads consider closing off the Bruce Highway in Sarina for Anzac Day parades.
Discussion held with members of the Mackay Historical Society and Museum Incorporated in regards to maintenance procedures for Council buildings and the need for a new lease to be prepared between Council and the group.
Attended meeting between Council and Main Road representatives to discuss RV parking at the Field of Dreams with Main Roads willing to consider the possible development of a new RV parking area at the Southern end of the Field of Dreams site.
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Co-ordinator Property Services
A program of inspection on all Council halls was undertaken, with condition of all structural components and facilities in each hall noted. Maintenance work has been scheduled for some items and the condition reports will be used to define a forward program of both capital and operational expenditure.
The design for new generator compound was finalised and initial construction has begun. This will be the site for two generators that will supply power to the admin building during major power outages.
Property Services staff played a major part in the commissioning of Councils depot at Paget. They were heavily involved in the operational handover of every major system on site and as well, implemented all inductions and associated security card issues. The program is still heavily involved in managing day to day issues at Paget and has been operationally responsible for the regions Works Depots from the 1 July 2011.
Maintenance staff refurbished 7 Goldsmith St, to be used as a Council house for new staff. This involved repairs and maintenance to doors and windows, overseeing cleaning and carpet as well as fitting out with furniture, curtains etc. This house replaces the Bedford Rd house which is being demolished.
Asset and Lease Officer
Program Staff are currently dealing with 22 leases - Glenella Hall, Hill End Road – Report in process of being prepared – awaiting Land
Management Plan from Mackay LAC - Lighting issues/ new lease for Mackay Touch Association - Dows Creek Hall – Report in process of being prepared – awaiting Land
Management Plan from Association - Eungella Community Progress Assoc – Report in process of being prepared –
awaiting Land Management Plan from Association - Optus Telecommunication Tower – 80 Celeber Drive, report in process of being
prepared - C & JC Camilleri and AJK – Leases to stockpile sand near river, Camilleri‟s were
never placed on original lease, this lease expires April 2012, will instigate a new joint lease
- Surrender of lease from Mackay Cricket Association - Coalport Community & Recreation Association – issues relating to new donga on
site Property Co-ordinations Officer
Fourro Sewer Easement – Mackay-Bucasia Road Upgrade.
Program staff are currently dealing with 21 land dealings and 8 Easements.
LAND ACT AGREEMENT ACCEPTANCE TIMEFRAME
Property Services in response to a request from Technical Services have reviewed the practicality of timeframes established for the process of acquiring land for Council purposes.
This review has been undertaken in line with the requirements of Council Acquisition of Land for Council Projects Policy No 025 which does not state a period for which acceptance is required nor does the Acquisitions of Land Act 1967 or Guidelines for Local Authorities and other Constructing Authorities – Compulsory Acquisitions of Land as provided by the Department of Environment and Resource Management. The following table details the existing projected timeframes in acquiring land should the matter progress to resumption.
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TASK TIMEFRAME (Days) TOTAL TIMEFRAME (Days)
Request Valuation on Areas
30 30
Possible Further Valuation 30 60
Land Act Agreement Prepared and Provided to Owners
14 (currently 30)
74
Resumption Report to Council
14 88
Preparation and Service of NIR
14 102
Objection & Meeting Period 40 142
Objection Period Report to Council
14 156
Application to Gazette Land to DERM
56 212 (Approx 7 Months)
As can be shown by this table the period of acquiring land for the purpose can take (should an agreement not be met) up to 7 months to be effected with the only timeframe able to be reduced by Council being the period of acceptance of offer made to the property owner. The outcome of the review is a reduction of the timeframe for acceptance of the “without prejudice” offer from 30 days to 14 days in cases where no agreement is likely to be reached.
Capital Projects
10360- Macarthur St Community Housing, dwellings under construction, awaiting delivery; and
90120- Glass Report, inspections completed now awaiting final report; and
90124- Sarina Council House roof COMPLETED; and
90125- Senior Citizen amenities upgrade, COMPLETED; and
90130- Mackay City Library AND 90140 Mackay Admin bldg – Fire system upgrade, evaluation completed and now finalising award to successful contractor; and
90137- Artspace anchor points, COMPLETED; and
90347- Lagoon meeting hut fire wetting system, scheduling works; and
90351- Slade Point community Hall refurb, works scheduled; and
90352- Leap Community Hall window frame upgrade, engaged contractor and completing works schedule; and
90482- Sarina Sugar Shed shade/shelter construction, works scheduled; and
90491- Sarina Depot new amenities and upgrade, lunchroom COMPLETED, now awaiting delivery of new transportable building; and
90493- Mirani Depot amenities modification, new transportable building ordered and awaiting delivery; and
90494- Palmyra Depot upgrade, pump house and shed works completed, remaining works to be scheduled; and
90148- Sarina Library refurb – roof report received, scheduling works; and
90391- Community Halls- thorough condition inspections of all Halls conducted to prioritise require work.
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90123- Town Hall Refurb - Engaged roofing plumber to investigate leak and quote rectification works; and
90127- Greenmount Homestead refurb – Onsite inspection to review condition of buildings.
Technical Officer
Paget depot opened and operational. Smooth transition from previous depot with the most common issue being access cards.
In excess of 400 staff inducted including WHS and fire safety inductions.
Construction of 2 x relocatable dwellings commenced, in Cairns, with an expected delivery date of early November.
Evaluations completed for the fire maintenance contract and the installation of 2 fire indicator panels (main admin and library)
Sarina Sugar Shed
September school holidays increased attendance levels at the Sugar Shed but overall attendance is still well down on last year‟s visitor numbers.
Sugar Shed Co-ordinator has been working closely with Anita Clark from Tourism Services on packaging and bundling of Sugar Shed products. Following the work that has been done RACQ Tourism have expressed an interest in entering into a ticketing partnership with the Sarina Sugar Shed. Staff will now focus on Queensland Rail and large group bus operators.
MACKAY CONVENTION PRECINCT AND EVENTS
Management
Attended Australian Performing Arts Centre‟s Association (APACA) Annual General Meeting and Conference, and Long Paddock, the national touring showcase.
Elected for second term as Queensland representative, Australian Performing Arts Centre Association (APACA).
Attended City Focus Advisory Committee.
Finalised appointments to Visual Arts Advisory Committee with Chair, Cr Karen May and Director Community Services.
Attended River to Reef Festival launch and oversaw festival program and coordination.
On behalf of APACA attended Australian Theatre Forum in Brisbane as APACA representative.
Assisted with Meadowlands Precinct Management Plan compilation.
Actively participated in M150 meetings and coordination.
Completed Art + Place funding application for public art (part of M150).
Continued to work on roll out of SafePlan.
Interviewed for the position of Sales and Marketing Coordinator (MECC).
Met with Tourism Queensland representatives and subsequently Mackay Tourism to coordinate a destinational marketing campaign centring on Ice Skating at the MECC, Myer, the Caneland Extension and New Year‟s Eve celebrations.
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Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Overview
An extremely robust and varied schedule of events took place in September, with much favourable media recorded. It was an extremely busy month, especially within the performing arts sector.
Performing arts hirers included, Captain Sig & the Hillstrand Bros (from Discovery Channel), Kasey Chambers, John Waters in Looking Through a Glass Onion, Shaolin Warriors, Festival of Russian Ballet, Mackay Comedy Players and six local dance schools rehearsing for October‟s Eisteddfod.
Corporate / function hirers included Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd, Council, Griffith University, Crushing Industries, Tourism QLD, Nestegg, Mako Ball, Combined Churches Mayoral Breakfast, Mackay Home & Lifestyle Show and the 2011 Australian Water Association Conference.
This schedule of events, combined with the ongoing roll out of Safe Plan, some staff shortages due to resignations and leave, and other matters has meant that prioritising of workloads has been of paramount importance. With advance bookings for the next few months very healthy, it is expected that the Centre will be challenged until new staff have been recruited and trained.
Capital Program
Technical equipment has been purchased as per the allocated budget, other capital works are being prioritised according to the availability of staff and access to the Centre.
Development/Other Issues
Made active bids to host conferences in 2012 & 2013, with an anticipated successful outcome which will see a large and noteworthy event come to Mackay for the first time. Information is commercial in confidence and cannot be released in the public domain at this point in time.
Staff training and backfilling of some roles is being managed carefully
Advertising for Ice Skating and destinational advertising will commence next month. The Daily Mercury and Prime Radio (Zinc & 4MK) are media sponsors, with Harvey World Travel the major prize sponsor. The MECC will work with Mackay Tourism and various accommodation providers also.
Entrepreneurial
Two entrepreneurial performances were held this month. Get Back – the Lennon & McCartney song book attracted a small audience in spite of good publicity. This was the third Beatles type performance this year, but was purchased by the Centre prior to the two other bookings being made. The Sum of Us, starring John Jarratt attracted an audience of approximately 250 people, and received much favourable comment. It is very pleasing to see that audiences for quality drama productions are increasing.
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Performance
Sept 2011 # of Events Attendance
Concert 4 1963
Entrepreneurial 2 308
Function 3 1070
Performing Arts 7 3111
Meeting 4 96
Seminar 4 192
Trade Fair / Expo 1
7000
Workshop 1 22
Rehearsal Space 21
1934
Exhibition 1 90
Conference 1 90
Cocktail Party 1 68
Exam or Class 1 20
Non-Financial Indicators 2011/12 Year to date
Number of Performances fully cost recovered 12 4
Minimum number of catered functions
140 59 (excluding performances)
Average attendance at shows Auditorium 550 Auditorium 409 Foyer/space
100 Foyer/space
143 Halls 600 Halls 318
One Hall only 200
One Hall only 159
Number of non-utilised days 90 4
Yearly occupancy of facility 150,000 40,016
Average Response time for Patrons enquiries <48 hours <48
Customer Hire Satisfaction 90% 98%
Ratio of Complaints to a sample of Patron Usage 5% 1%
Are adequate range of facilities being provided 70% 90%
Would you use the Centre again 70% 98%
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THREE YEAR COMPARISONS
2011-2012 2010-2011 2009-2010 P
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JUL 30 23 13,359 1,260 21 20 17,224 3,204 17 2 7,790 1,355
AUG 20 14 10,693 4,704 11 16 13,573 1,200 11 28 16,596 1,547
SEP 14 37 15,964 0 14 27 23,278 209 7 31 14,501 1,867
OCT 116 23 36,498 2,783 116 36 35,882 1,556
NOV 13 30 18,261 561 15 26 16,803 316
DEC 10 22 11,379 1,012 9 19 7,214 451
JAN 0 5 1,684 297 1 10 1,458 0
FEB 6 21 13,191 0 5 19 8,942 2,441
MAR 4 24 4,879 0 10 33 14,191 0
APR 7 18 8,964 1,397 23 21 12,402 66
MAY 11 31 13,434 62 20 29 13,648 1,263
JUN 11 18 6,261 104 12 22 8,562 2,594
TOTAL 64 74 40,016 5,964 224 255 168,626 10,829 246 276 157,989 13,456
#NOTE: October is Eistedfodd Month
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Festivals and Events City Centre Markets
All the recent City Centre Markets have been very small in size and attendance. The CBD roadworks, the temporary relocation to Bluewater Quay, and Sunday trading at shopping malls has impacted. Due to the opening of the Canelands extension it is expected that there may be less pedestrian traffic in Victoria Street in the future.
Mackay Festival of Arts 9-22 July 2012
Planning has commenced for next year‟s festival, it will have a heritage theme to coincide with M150 and it appears a new event sponsored by Mackay Sugar at Greenmount Homestead will become part of the festival program on an annual basis.
Coal to Coast Festival Saturday 10 September 2011
Annual General Meeting will be called in November. Planning in its infancy has commenced for next year‟s program.
River 2 Reef Festival Saturday 1 October 2011
A very successful festival in terms of media, stall holders, charities and general public feedback. Attendances were slightly down on last year. It was a very hot day, and the Palmyra drag races and AFL Grand Final clashed with the event which may have affected audience numbers. Charities raised close to $80,000 on the day through the Bike Ride, Raft Race, Pelican Push and World‟s Greatest Seafood Grill competition. The Raft Race, Pelican Push, Greatest Seafood Grill and Bike Ride were all better managed than in previous years and attracted more competitors. Excellent feedback has been received from the community and stakeholders, and excellent media coverage has been achieved.
Global Grooves Sunday 30 October 2011
Planning has commenced in earnest to build on the success of last year‟s Global Grooves. At this stage there are more than 20 ethnic food vendors and 48 stall holders. A new record. New innovations will be an Australian Tale talking/yarn fest held in the rotunda and organised by Community Development.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies in the Mackay Region 3-10 December 2010
Planning has commenced for the community tree lighting ceremonies in the region. They will be similar to last year. The MECC is booked for Saturday 3 December for the annual Carols in the City co-organised by ZINC FM. Myer Mackay will be sponsoring this event.
Artspace Mackay
Visitors: 2,068 during September 2011 (Artspace: 1991, Town Hall: 767) (4,030 during September 2010 (Artspace: 2966, Town Hall: 1064))
Exhibitions
McAleese Gallery 19 August – 1 October Batik of Java: Poetics & Politics
ASM Foyer 19 August – 1 October Creative Generation: Excellence Awards in Visual Arts & Design
Cox Rayner Gallery 29 July – 29 October Happily Ever After: Alternative destinies in contemporary feminine narrative
Collectors‟ Cabinet August - current Faberge eggs from Mel
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Town Hall Studio 26 August – 4 September A Journey of Time, in Time? by Douglas Lenton
23 September – 2 October Her Visual Fragrance by Amanda Howard
Recycled Library: Altered Books Touring Exhibition
Recycled Library is currently in storage before travelling to Hervey Bay Regional Art Gallery, where it‟s due to open on October 9th.
MacAleese Gallery / Foyer / Cox Rayner Gallery
Batik of Java: Poetics and Politics – This exhibition comes to Artspace from Caloundra Regional Gallery and was created as a celebration of UNESCO recognising Javanese batik as an item of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. The exhibition features both batiks from the North Coast of Java and paintings from contemporary Indonesian artist Dadang Christanto (now resident in Brisbane.)
Creative Generation: Excellence Awards in Visual Arts & Design – This exhibition highlights a range of outstanding work by visual art and design students from secondary schools throughout the Mackay region. Selected finalists from the region go on to compete in the state-wide Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art and Design.
Happily Ever After: Alternative destinies in contemporary feminine narrative – This exhibition comes to Artspace from Newcastle, NSW. It sees collaboration between artists, writers and craftspeople invited to work together to create handmade books which explore female narratives within the fairytale genre.
Collectors’ Cabinet – Artspace Foyer
The Collectors‟ Cabinet, which sits in the Artspace Foyer, showcases private collections of Mackay residents. This month we see an amazing collection of Faberge eggs, all hand crafted from an elderly Mackay lady, named Mel. The collection is created from a mainly rhea, emu and ostrich eggs, with many of the rarer adornments imported from America and Europe. This display has proved extremely popular with the local community and Artspace has enjoyed many visits from different groups who‟ve come in to see the collection displayed.
Anyone with an interesting or unusual collection, who would like their items displayed at Artspace, is encouraged to contact the gallery directly.
Town Hall Studio
Local Mackay artist Douglas Lenton‟s exhibition, A Journey of Time, in Time? continued at Town Hall Studio until 4 September.
Another local, Amanda Howard, held her solo exhibition, Her visual fragrance, at Town Hall Studio as part of Artspace‟s Community Exhibition Program. Her exhibition opened on 23 Sept and ran through till 2 October.
September Public Programs & Education
Kids art club – Saturday art classes 24 kids
BMA Kidspace 150 kids and adults
Smith family workshops 10 kids
Surrealism kids on tour day 200 kids and adults
Kids hol workshop Artspace 24 children
Kids hol workshop Gargett 10 children
BMA Artspace-to-go workshops Moranbah 24 children
Fitzgerald SS year ones tour Artspace 86 children + 18 adults
BJ visited Glenella SS year two class 26 children + teacher
Whitsunday Anglican kindy tour artspace 20 children + 12 adults and teachers
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yantai Relationship
The success of a scholarship program for local students to learn Mandarin through the Mackay Language College was reported to a September meeting of the Yantai Relationship Committee, chaired by Economic Development and Tourism Portfolio Councillor Dave Perkins. Economic relations with China continue to strengthen through contact with Yantai, under the auspices of Mackay Whitsunday Regional Economic Development Corporation (REDC), with use of the REDC Regional Investment Database (RIO) to publicise local investment opportunities to a growing interest within China, including Chinese banking institutions which are among the largest in the world.
REDC AGM, Thursday 8th September 2011
Economic Development team gained tips for “Managing media” at a seminar of the same name presented by ABC Radio‟s Kim Kleidon as the guest speaker at a seminar held prior to the Regional Economic Development Corporation‟s Annual General Meeting.
Building Better Business Super Series
As part of a four speaker seminar series, attended by local business and hosted through the Mackay Chamber of Commerce, council received glowing feedback for its City Deals and online Mackay City Centre presence: Tony Nash, CEO of online giant Booktopia, speaking about Online Retailing – a success story, on Tuesday September 20 commended City Deals saying it offered a great opportunity for businesses to have a presence in the online world. “I have seen a lot of online coupon offers and this is by the far best I have ever seen,” Mr Nash said. “It is community based, it costs nothing to participate, a company can set their own discounts and incentives and customers feel great because they get an extra special discount. “Not only that, it was conceived and implemented by the local council, you have to take your hat off to them, how many other councils around Australia are trying to come up with ways for people to buy local?"
Women in Business, Forward Planning for the Mackay City Centre, Friday 9th September 2011
Councillor David Perkins and the Economic Development team were invited to the Women In Business group at the Ocean International Hotel, at which Cr Perkins spoke in the lead up to the draft Mackay City Centre Public Realm Concept. A draft Concept is under preparation and eagerly anticipated as a guide for Queensland and Australian government funding for urban enhancement in the Mackay City Centre.
Queensland Treasury Workshop and presentation, Thursday 8th September 2011
The Economic Development team had the opportunity to tap into Queensland Treasury knowledge and understandings of statistical issues, current and future projects, and research proposals and opportunities, as part of a recent seminar hosted in Mackay. The seminar examined a broad spectrum of social, demographic, and economic data available for the Mackay local government area, and materials were then made available through council‟s free business networks.
Council's Business Networks
Council‟s business network membership database continues to grow. Across the networks there are now over 1000 registered members, although the updates reach a far wider audience as many firms pass along the materials to staff members and contacts.
Updates sent out include information on:
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- Council‟s Business Networks receive national recognition - Find out about Central Queensland Mining Activity - Population & Housing Profile - Mackay and Sarina Statistical Snapshots - Mackay Regional Profile - National Workforce Development Grant - Active ...in the City continues due to demand - Updates on Essential City Centre repair works
Mackaycitycentre.com.au
Mackaycitycentre.com.au is not yet one year old – and 738 City Centre enterprises have joined the partnership initiative to gain involvement through free business listings and City Deals.
All City Centre businesses can list in the Mackaycitycentre.com.au business directory for free and also take advantage of the free City Deals to promote their business. September website figures are as follows: - The number of total visitors was 4,283 for September 2011 - For the month of September there was a total of 22,188 page views; and
- The top 5 search phrases were: Mackay city centre, Sydney Street Markets Mackay, mackaycitycentre.com.au, Kester Real Estate and Mackay City.
Active in the City, Providers Recognised
Local business providers: Selina Wright from Red E Personal Training; Laura Power from THUMP Boxing for Fitness; Berenice Wright – Heritage Walks; Leanne Simpson – Time Out Tai Chi; Chris Labes – Rock N Road Cycles; Chris Evangelou – Lazy Runners Club; Julie Pratt – QLD Health, Supermarket Walks; and Barb Whitfield – QLD Keep Fit Association were thanked for their support of the Active...in the City campaign, in a special presentation by Mayor Col Meng. These providers offered their services and expertise to provide activities at no cost , for the initial program which ran from July through September, 2011.
The Active in the City program is an initiative of Economic Development in partnership with Recreation Services and Queensland Health, which aims to enhance health benefits to the community, while at the same time promoting Mackay City Centre, and its Bluewater attractions as an active destination.
Active in the City to continue
Active in the City continues to improve health and fitness levels, while giving additional reasons to make the City Centre a regular destination.
Businesses have the opportunity to be involved with the Active program, either through direct engagement as a provider; or through carrying information which can be made available to enhance customer service.
Consultation
There has been consultation with Community Services Program Managers.
Resource Implications
Nil.
Conclusion
All programs are performing well for this stage of the year and meeting operational plan goals.
Director’s Recommendation
THAT this report be received
