Mayoral Matters - August 2024
Published on 29 August 2024
On 1 August l attended the Rural Councils Victoria Forum in Trawool with Cr Karly Kirk and our Chief Executive Officer, Tammy Smith.
This was an excellent chance to network and collaborate with rural Councils throughout Victoria. The theme of preparing for the Federal Election was well-received, as we discussed major ideas and the key issues that will shape the election.
Keeping crucial issues in mind, we have been in discussions with our Members of Victorian Parliament, Jacinta Ermacora MP, Jade Benham MP, and Federal Parliament Anne Webster MP over the past month. Additionally, a meeting with Emma Kealy MP is scheduled for later this month.
Our primary advocacy and conversations have concentrated on the shortage of childcare and housing, the significance of rural health services for our communities, and the vital role they play in community health delivery; furthermore, we have communicated our rising concerns about the divisions within our community due to renewable energy and mining projects.
With the Federal Election approaching, we are reviewing our primary advocacy documents and preparing to effectively communicate our community's needs.
On Tuesday 20 August l attended the presentation for the final draft of the Wimmera Mallee Destination Management Plan (DMP), and the Yarriambiack Local Area Action (LAAP) Plan, facilitated by the Grampians, Wimmera Mallee Tourism. The DMP and LAAP are important documents to leverage State Tourism Funding going forward and will drive the strategic priorities for the new Visitor Economy Partnership.
It was an honour to attend the Warracknabeal Scouts Annual Report and Awards Presentation in Warracknabeal on Wednesday 20 August. I watched as a Leader and Scout took their investiture into Scouting and as other Scouts received awards and badges for their outstanding accomplishments. I was extremely honoured, and very surprised to be presented with the “Friends of Scouting Scarf” for my involvement over the years in Scouting.
I'm excited to attend the Hopetoun Bowling Club 1924-2024 100th Celebration on Friday, August 30. It's sure to be a joyful event celebrating sportsmanship, friendship, and community pride.
This will be the last Mayors report, as we enter Election Period at 12 noon on 17 September 2024.
It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the community and Council, not only as a Councillor, but as the Mayor for the last three terms.
Cr Kylie Zanker