georges river news · will be improved so please provide council with your feedback. this...

9
GEORGES RIVER COUNCIL GEORGES RIVER news MAY - JUNE 2017 GEORGES RIVER COUNCIL NEW COUNCIL LOGO After extensive community consultation, Georges River Council is pleased to unveil its new logo – a distinctive dragon in a striking red, which also incorporates elements depicting the Georges River and a Port Jackson fig leaf, in acknowledgment of the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage. Council’s new logo builds on the interim logo, which has already resonated with people in our community. This means that items with the old logo, like existing stationery, will continue to be utilised to ensure there is no wastage. The dragon references the legend of Saint George, representing Council’s connection with the wider St George area and its aim to be a positive leader for change, which was well received by survey participants. The Port Jackson fig leaf represents our Indigenous peoples and their connection to country. The forward facing dragon rising up from the fig leaf acknowledges the Aboriginal people as the first people of Australia and recognises that our future is always informed by our past. The teal colour represents the Georges River itself, which has always been an integral part of life in the region serving as a food source for traditional owners, a transport route for early industry from the south to the city, and a popular social hub for leisure activities. Initial areas of focus will include signage on Council facilities and venues, front line staff uniforms and Council’s vehicle fleet. Street signs and other signage will occur in a staged manner as new signs are required. The NSW government has required all merged councils to develop a new logo. INSIDE Council News ......................................................... 2 Have Your Say ....................................................... 4 Delivering for our Community................................. 5 Supporting Local Business..................................... 7 Community Events ................................................. 8 Georges River Libraries ......................................... 10 Hurstville Entertainment Centre Hurstville Museum & Gallery .................................. 12 Environment, Waste and Sustainability ................. 13 Works and Upgrades ............................................. 15 Council Services and Contacts .............................. 16 GEORGES RIVER COUNCIL

Upload: others

Post on 28-Sep-2020

3 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

GEORGESRIVERCOUNCIL

GEORGES RIVER news MAY - JUNE 2017

GEORGESRIVERCounCil

NEW COUNCIL LOGOAfter extensive community consultation, Georges River Council is pleased to unveil its new logo – a distinctive dragon in a striking red, which also incorporates elements depicting the Georges River and a Port Jackson fig leaf, in acknowledgment of the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage.

Council’s new logo builds on the interim logo, which has already resonated with people in our community. This means that items with the old logo, like existing stationery, will continue to be utilised to ensure there is no wastage. The dragon references the legend of Saint George, representing Council’s connection with the wider St George area and its aim to be a positive leader for change, which was well received by survey participants.

The Port Jackson fig leaf represents our Indigenous peoples and their connection to country. The forward facing dragon rising up from the fig leaf acknowledges

the Aboriginal people as the first people of Australia and recognises that our future is always informed by our past.

The teal colour represents the Georges River itself, which has always been an integral part of life in the region serving as a food source for traditional owners, a transport route for early industry from the south to the city, and a popular social hub for leisure activities.

Initial areas of focus will include signage on Council facilities and venues, front line staff uniforms and Council’s vehicle fleet. Street signs and other signage will occur in a staged manner as new signs are required.

The NSW government has required all merged councils to develop a new logo.

INSIdECouncil News ......................................................... 2Have Your Say ....................................................... 4Delivering for our Community ................................. 5Supporting Local Business..................................... 7Community Events ................................................. 8Georges River Libraries ......................................... 10Hurstville Entertainment CentreHurstville Museum & Gallery .................................. 12Environment, Waste and Sustainability ................. 13Works and Upgrades ............................................. 15Council Services and Contacts .............................. 16

GEORGESRIVERCounCil

Page 2: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

John Rayner PSM Administrator, Georges River Council

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Residents are welcome to speak prior to the commencement of a Council meeting.

You may register by emailing Council at [email protected] at least 48 hours prior to the Council meeting or with staff at the venue 15 minutes before the meeting is scheduled to commence.

All meetings start at 6.00pm. Any enquiries can be directed to the Governance Team via 9330 6400.

Date Venue

Monday 5 June

Club Rivers, 32-34 Littleton Street, Riverwood

Monday 3 July

Hurstville Civic Theatre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville

Monday 7 August

Kyle Bay on Georges, 12 Merriman Street, Kyle Bay

Monday 4 September

Hurstville Civic Centre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville

Monday 9 October

Hurstville Civic Centre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville

Monday 6 November

Hurstville Civic Centre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville

Monday 4 December

Hurstville Civic Centre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville

* Venues, dates and times may be subject to change. Please see Council’s website www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au for the latest information.

.......................................................................

MayOR aNd COUNCILLOR REpRESENTaTION The Local Government election for Georges River Council will take place on 9 September 2017.

Council will have 15 elected Councillors across five wards, with three Councillors per ward.

The Mayor of Georges River Council will be elected by Councillors for a period of two years.

Council Elections: Saturday 9 September 2017

KOGaRah SERVICE CENTRE RELOCaTION Georges River Council’s Kogarah-based Customer Service team has moved to Kogarah Library in Kogarah Town Square.

As part of the relocation, Kogarah Library’s operating hours have been extended to 8.30am - 7.00pm Monday to Friday.

For more information please speak to one of our friendly Customer Service staff members.

You can contact Council 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 9330 6400 or by email at [email protected]

FIRE aNd EMERGENCy SERVICES LEVy

From 1 July 2017, the NSW Government is introducing a new system for funding the State’s fire and emergency services. At present, these services are funded by a levy on insurance, which will be removed from 1 July. From this time, all properties, not just insured properties, will directly contribute to the cost of these services through the Fire and Emergency Services Levy (FESL).

The FESL will be paid alongside your Council rates. You will be notified in July of your FESL contribution as part of your Council rates notice, or a separate notice for non-rateable properties. As with Council rates, you may pay the FESL annually or quarterly.

For more information, visit fesl.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 787 872.

NEW WEbSITE LaUNChEd Georges River Council recently launched its exciting new website, making it even easier for our community to connect with us online.

Council’s new website provides important community information, opportunities for engagement and an expanded online service portfolio to service residents, businesses and visitors to the Georges River area.

Council utilised in-house resources to develop and deliver the website, which spared the Georges River community the considerable cost of using an external provider.

Council will continue to monitor and develop the content and functionality of the new website and make ongoing improvements based on customer feedback.

To see Council’s new website, visit www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.

Pictured: The new Customer Service Centre in Kogarah Library.

COUNCIL NEWSCOUNCIL NEWS

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 20172 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 3

a MESSaGE FROM ThE adMINISTRaTOR

When you read this message, it will only be four months before the election of the first Councillors for Georges River Council. Fifteen Councillors representing five wards will be elected on 9 September 2017 and

those councillors will elect a Mayor at their first meeting, expected to be in mid to late September.

PoliciesDuring the remaining period that the Council is under administration a number of important policies will be put in place. These policies will underpin good governance of the Council and include:• Code of conduct• Code of meeting practice• Councillor expenses and facilities policy• Community engagement policy• Enforcement policy• Drug and alcohol policy for Council officials• Community lease policy• Customer relations policy• Risk policy• Donation and sponsorship policy

In addition, a number of planning policies will also be developed. Many of these policies will ensure transparency, consistency and probity around the planning and development process.

All draft policies will be on exhibition and Council encourages and welcomes your comments.

Website and LogoCouncil staff are to be congratulated on their in-house development of the Council’s new website and logo.

The website, which was recently launched, provides a platform for online community information, engagement and an expanded self-service area. A focus on customer needs was a key consideration in the design of the site which can be accessed from home and any mobile device. All information about Council will now be available on this website and customers will no longer be required to visit the sites of the two former Councils.The website can, and will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback.

This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community consultation, at a very modest cost. Developing the website and logo in-house has saved ratepayers considerably, and it was also a great example of collaboration between different parts of Council.

Such team work demonstrates the capacity of staff and their commitment to making Georges River a high performing Council.I trust this newsletter brings you up-to-date on what is happening at Georges River.

Page 3: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PANELWant to have your say about issues affecting your local community? Join our online community engagement panel and participate in Council’s decision making process from the comfort of your own home. Panel members will be sent regular online surveys to participate in and receive invitations to attend in-person consultations. There is also an opportunity to win great prizes through our regular prize draws. To join, simply fill in the online registration form on Council’s website

How do you like to be engaged?

Help us in preparing our Community Engagement Policy and Community Engagement Strategy by letting us know what you would like to be consulted about, and your preferred ways for interacting with Council on engagement projects. Come along to one of our engagement workshops or completing our online survey. Upcoming Workshop:When: Saturday 13 May, 10.00am – 12.00pm Where: Jubilee Community Centre, 2B Boundary Road, MortdaleTo register for the workshop please contact Council on 9330 6400.

Community StrategiC Plan: PoP uP SeSSionS Coming to your area

We want to know your thoughts about the Georges River community, the problems we should focus on, great ideas you have for the future, and things that are worth celebrating about the places you live, work and visit.

Keep your eyes open for Council’s Community Engagement Team who will be out and about this month holding pop up sessions.

COUNCIL’S NEW WEBSITE

Council now has a feedback form on most pages of our new website! Simply let us know whether you find the information on each page helpful and why.

COMMUNITy CONSULTaTION ON ThE FUTURE USE OF ThE FORMER OaTLEy bOWLING CLUb SITEThe results of a detailed community consultation process for the future use of the former Oatley Bowling Club site is now available on Council’s website. This follows a Council Meeting on 7 November 2016, where it was resolved that Georges River Council would undertake extensive community consultation on the Planning Proposal and future uses of the former Oatley Bowling Club site.

The consultation included three community information sessions, a community survey at the community information sessions and on Council’s website, and a telephone survey.

There was strong community participation in the consultation process with:

• 149 participants at the community information sessions• 146 community surveys completed at the community

information sessions or online• 501 residents participating in a phone survey• 52 submissions were received in response to the early

exhibition of the Planning Proposal

For more information, please contact Council on 9330 6400 or visit our website at www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK: WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOUBelow are a number of opportunities where residents can have their say...

DRAFT ENFORCEMENT POLICYCouncil is seeking community feedback on the Draft Enforcement Policy, which provides a framework to ensure the investigation and detection of any breach of the law will be conducted in a fair, lawful, consistent, transparent and professional manner and with a thorough consideration of all available facts. To give your feedback, visit the Have Your Say page on Council’s website.

On public exhibition until 19 May.

DRAFT EMPLOYMENT LANDS STUDYCouncil is seeking feedback on the Draft Employment Lands Study which has been prepared to inform the preparation of a strategic direction for employment lands across the Georges River Local Government Area, consistent with the actions and priorities in the NSW government’s draft South District Plan. To give your feedback, visit the Have Your Say page on Council’s website.

On public exhibition until Wednesday 31 May.

YOUTH SURVEYYoung people aged 12-24 years who live, work, study or play in the Georges River Council area can go in the draw to win an iPad mini by completing our online youth survey. The survey, seeks to understand key issues of importance for young people. To complete the survey, visit the Have Your Say page on Council’s website.

Open until 30 June.

COUNCIL EVENTSIf you attended any of our major Summer Events, which included the Magic of Christmas, Australia Day Festival and the Lunar New Year Festival, we would love to hear your feedback. Everyone who completes the survey will go in the draw to win a double cinema pass. To complete the survey, visit the Have Your Say page on Council’s website

Open until 30 June.

TO haVE yOUR Say, OR TO COMpLETE COUNCIL’S ONLINE SURVEyS, VISIT OUR WEbSITE VIa www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au

MEET ThE adMINISTRaTOR Residents have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Georges River Council Administrator John Rayner at a number of Meet the Administrator information sessions at venues across the local government area.

Upcoming Information sessions scheduled:When: Monday 8 May, 4.00pm - 7.00pmWhere: Kingsgrove Community Centre, 30 Morgan Street, KingsgroveTransport: Kingsgrove Community Centre is located within close proximity to Kingsgrove train station and bus stops.When: Monday 15 May, 4.00pm - 7.00pmWhere: Mortdale Community Centre, 2B Boundary Road, MortdaleTransport: Mortdale Community Centre is within walking distance to Oatley (650 metres) and Mortdale (700 metres) train stations.Note: Venues may be subject to changeResidents interested in making an appointment can do so by phoning Council, or via Council’s website.For more information, please contact Council on 9330 6400 or visit our website at www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.

VENUE hIRE GRaNTS pOLICyCouncil recently introduced a new Venue Hire Grants program for not-for-profit organisations and community groups to apply for free or reduced venue hire to run activities that benefit the Georges River community. The new policy aims to increase transparency and equity in the dispersal of Council funds, allowing greater access to financial assistance across the broader community.

Community consultation sessions were held between November 2016 and January 2017 where Council invited regular users of our facilities to provide feedback and make suggestions about the development of the draft policy in a series of workshop sessions. Incorporating some of this feedback, the draft policy was then placed on public exhibition for an extended period of eight weeks to allow further consultation with the wider community.

Since implementing the policy, Council has been running grant-writing workshops to assist people in completing grant applications. Information sessions detailing how to access public information to help improve your chances in receiving funding have also been held.

Pictured: Mortdale Community Centre, located at 2B Boundary Road, Mortdale.

Pictured: A recent ‘Meet the Administrator’ session.

HAVE YOUR SAY HAVE YOUR SAY

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 20174 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 5

Page 4: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 7

IMpROVEd ChILdCaRE SERVICES IN GEORGES RIVER

Following the merger of the former Councils, residents now have access to six childcare centres across the local government area.

This means that if a family’s first preference for a childcare centre is not available, Council will be able to offer the services of one of the other five centres, leading to reduced waiting times for families to have their child enrolled into a centre.

Georges River Council can also pool resources from more centres than the former Councils, which results in higher quality education and care.

With the availability of six childcare centres throughout the local government area, there are now more staff members available to move between the centres.

Not only does this mean that children to carer ratios can be more easily maintained, but it also means there is a greater knowledge and experience base to draw from.

Our childcare centres include:

Hurstville Early Learning Centre Rooftop of Hurstville Westfield Shopping Centre, Corner of Park Road and Cross Street, HurstvilleJack High Child Care Centre 70 Vanessa Street, Beverly HillsCarss Park Narani Child Care Centre 72 Carwar Avenue, Carss ParkOcean Street Long Day Care Centre 62 Ocean Street, KogarahPenshurst Long Day Care Centre 5 St Georges Road, PenshurstSouth Hurstville Kindergarten 4 The Mall, South Hurstville

The new look and feel of the works will also complement the existing Mortdale Community Centre.

Over $2.5 million in funding has been allocated for the construction of the new Jubilee Park Adventure Playground. Of this funding, more than $1.6 million will be allocated from the Hurstville Section 94 Development Contributions Plan 2012.

The works are scheduled to be completed before October 2017.

JUbILEE paRK adVENTURE pLayGROUNdConstruction of the new multi-million dollar Jubilee Park Adventure Playground in Mortdale has commenced.

The project will revitalise the Park and offer more opportunities for recreational activities for the whole community.

These exciting improvements will include the construction of a children’s bike track, junior swings and flying foxes, a toddler play area and multi-purpose sports courts.

The new adventure playground will cater for all ages of children, parents and carers, and will include the creation of new picnic and BBQ areas, a walking track, outdoor gym equipment, and new lighting and seating areas.

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 20176

bUSINESS WEEK SUCCESS Council recently celebrated Back to Business Week with a series of informative events for local businesses in the Georges River area. More than 200 business people took part in the week, which is aimed at helping local business owners and their employees build their skills.

In partnership with Realise Business, Council ran a series of educational workshops aimed at business intenders, start-up businesses and existing businesses looking to capitalise on new opportunities.

A screening of ‘The Founder’ was held at Hurstville Event Cinemas, which tells the story of Ray Kroc – an American Midwest milkshake-maker who founded McDonald’s.

Breakfast with an Entrepreneur featured a one-on-one interview with Martin Dowling, founder of the Star Wash car wash empire, at St George Motor Boat Club.

EaSy TO dO bUSINESS - OpEN ThE dOORS TO yOUR dREaM FOOd aNd dRINK bUSINESS FaSTER

The hustle and bustle of the Georges River café, restaurant and small bar scene is expected to come alive thanks to a new initiative called Easy to do Business which reduces the time businesses open from 18 months to 90 days or less, cutting the red tape and providing a better customer service experience.

Georges River Council is one of only four local councils in NSW participating in the local, state and federal trial and is working with Service NSW to identify areas of information duplication as well as opportunities to digitise application forms.

At the click of a button, customers can also access step-by-step how-to guides for starting a café, restaurant or small bar and complete a number of government related business transactions such as registering a company and business name. The program also has a Business Concierge team who provide free support and answer common questions such as: “how do I apply for outdoor dining?”

A Pub Biz Networking event was also held at the Gardens on Forest in Peakhurst, featuring a presentation by Natalie Graham, a local entrepreneur who started the company Pro Groom.

Council looks forward to providing more opportunities to help local businesses realise their full potential. Keep an eye on Council’s website for upcoming events.

Make this the year you start or grow your business. For more information about Easy to do Business visit service.nsw.gov.au/business.

Pictured: Georges River Council Director Environment and Planning Meryl Bishop speaking at the Breakfast with an Entrepreneur event as part of Back to Business Week.

Pictured: David and Sohani, of Bitton Café & Bistro in Oatley, are excited about the benefits of the Easy to do Business initiative.

Pictured: An artist’s impression of Jubilee Adventure Park Playground, Mortdale.

DELIVERING FOR OUR COMMUNITY SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

Page 5: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

MUSIC aT TWILIGhTThere is a fantastic offering of musical events to look forward to at this year’s Music at Twilight series.

The next concert will be held on 7 June at Hurstville Entertainment Centre, featuring the Australian Army Band Salutes – ‘Great Hits of the Swing Era’ with classic tunes like ‘In the Mood’, ‘Sing, Sing, Sing’, ‘Begin the Beguine’ and ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo’.

Tickets are on sale now!

The Australian Army Band is widely acknowledged as one of Australia’s most dynamic music ensembles, so don’t miss out!

When: Wednesday 7 June, 7.00pm

Where: Marana Auditorium, Hurstville Entertainment Centre, 16 MacMahon Street, Hurstville

Tickets: $20 (including light refreshments) Tickets can be purchased at Council’s Service Centres, via phone on 9330 6400 or online via https://www.trybooking.com/OYSA.

Further concerts will be performed in August and October.

To be added to the email distribution list and be kept up-to-date on the Music at Twilight series, please email [email protected].

Enquiries: 9330 6400

Pictured: The Australian Army Band is set to thrill audiences at June’s Music at Twilight event.

INTERNaTIONaL WOMEN’S day

More than 100 people recently attended Georges River Council’s International Women’s Day morning tea featuring guest speakers from the local area.

This year’s theme was ‘Be Bold for Change’, and showcased female migrants who had become successful entrepreneurs. They shared their stories which highlighted the power of a positive attitude, hard work and determination to succeed.

A panel discussion followed, during which audience members were able to ask questions about the speakers’ experiences.

The event also showcased a vibrant mix of fashion, traditional dress and performances from the diverse cultures that call the Georges River area home, including Australia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific.

Donations collected from guests on the day raised more than $450 for a local women’s refuge.

haRMONy day CELEbRaTIONS Over 300 people attended Hurstville Civic Theatre on Wednesday 22 March to celebrate Harmony Day 2017. Harmony Day is an annual event held in March, that encourages community participation and promotes respect for cultural and religious diversity.

This year’s theme was ‘Everyone Belongs’ and Georges River Council organised a range of activities including short film screenings, live stage performances and a panel discussion and workshop about social cohesion.

Attendees had the opportunity to share their personal stories of migration, highlighting the benefits of being part of an inclusive community.

It was a harmonious day with lots of colourful cultural cloths representing community heritage, as well as Chinese, Indian, Mexican and Lebanese foods.

Thanks to the many members of the community who attended on the day making it a great success.

Pictured: Local community group Chong Des Arts entertained attendees with a Chinese traditional dance at Council International Women’s Day Morning tea.

FREE FaMILy FRIENdLy OUTdOOR MOVIE EVENTS IN MayThe Georges River community is invited to attend Council’s inaugural Starlight Cinema event, which will be held at Carss Bush Park in May.

The family-friendly initiative will provide a great opportunity for families and friends to get out and enjoy some relaxing time outdoors.

People are encouraged to fill a picnic basket with tasty treats, bring along picnic rugs or low fold-out chairs, find a spot on the grass and enjoy a meal under the stars – all while watching a family-friendly film on an outdoor cinema screen.

Dates and movies to be featured at Carss Bush Park are:

Saturday 13 May – GoosebumpsSaturday 20 May – The Peanuts Movie

All screenings commence at 6.30pm.

Starlight Cinema is an alcohol-free and smoke-free event. For more information please contact Council on 9330 6400.

Pictured: (Left) Local Aboriginal performer Graham Davis-King told the story of local Aboriginal people and their culture. (Right) Students from Arkana College celebrating their Lebanese heritage.

COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 20178 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 9

Page 6: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

LIbRaRy aNd INFORMaTION WEEK 2017Author, social commentator and broadcaster Jane Caro will launch Georges River Libraries’ Library and Information Week 2017 celebrations at Hurstville Library on Tuesday 23 May with a thought provoking and inspiring talk about education.

The common thread running through Jane’s career is a delight in words and a talent for using them to connect with other people. As well as regularly appearing on popular television shows, such as Gruen, Q&A and The Project, she has co-authored several non-fiction titles, including The stupid country: how Australia is dismantling public education and What makes a good school?. She has written two novels for young adults, Just a girl and Just a queen, and her memoir, Plain-speaking Jane. Jane also serves on the board of the Public Education Foundation.

Library and Information Week is an annual event where the community is invited to find out more about the wide range of services, resources, facilities and programs available to them from public libraries. Library and Information Week runs from Monday 22 May to Sunday 28 May 2017.

When: Tuesday 23 May, 7.00pm - 8.00pmWhere: Hurstville LibraryBookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Hurstville Library on 9330 6111.

NaTIONaL SIMULTaNEOUS STORyTIME

Every year across Australia, hundreds of thousands of children come together across thousands of locations to

celebrate Library and Information Week with National Simultaneous Storytime.

Be part of the fun as Georges River Libraries present the feature story for 2017, Tony Wilson’s The Cow Tripped Over the Moon. This udder-ly brilliant twist on the well-loved nursery rhyme is sure to delight and inspire. For ages 3+.

When: Wednesday 24 May, 11.00am - 11.45amWhere: Hurstville Library, Oatley Library and Penshurst LibraryCost: FreeEnquiries: Contact Kogarah Library on 9330 9527, Hurstville Library on 9330 6111 and Penshurst Library on 9330 6422.

SydNEy WRITERS’ FESTIVaL Each year, the Sydney Writers’ Festival presents over 300 events, attracting audiences of over 100,000. Georges River Council will be hosting Tracey Spicer and Troy Bramston during the Sydney Writers’ Festival.

Tracey Spicer

Tracey Spicer is a television, radio, newspaper and online journalist and is a highly sought-after writer, speaker and trainer.Join Tracey as she discusses her book The Good Girl Stripped Bare.

When: Monday 22 May, 6.30pm - 8.00pmWhere: Kogarah LibraryBookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Kogarah Library on 9330 9527.

aGEd pENSION TaLKAre you currently receiving the Aged Pension or will you soon? Do you have questions or doubts?

The Department of Human Services will be giving a talk about the Aged Pension. Topics covered will include - the basic conditions of eligibility based on income and assets, portability and gifting, reporting absence to Centrelink and at what age you are entitled to the Aged pension. Both sessions will be in English with an interpreter.

When: Friday 2 June, 11.00am - 12.00pm (with a Chinese interpreter)Where: Kogarah Library

When: Friday 16 June 2017, 11.00am - 12.00pm (with a Greek interpreter)Where: Kogarah Library

Bookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Kogarah Library on 9330 9527

GETTING REady TO REad Fiona Murray is a Literacy Consultant and Primary School teacher with decades of experience. Her workshop is designed to teach parents how to help their child best prepare for literacy learning at school.

Her workshop includes:

• How do children move from spoken language to written language?

• What are Phonological Awareness skills?• Why are they so important and how can a parent

teach them in a fun, easy way?• What is the difference between Phonics and

Phonological Awareness?

When: Friday 19 May 2017, 1.30pm - 2.30pmWhere: Kogarah LibraryBookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Kogarah Library on 9330 9527.

STaRTING SOLIdS: a baby LEd appROaChIs your baby ready to start solid food? Maybe you aren’t sure? This talk, presented by Registered Nutritionist Dr Michelle Fitzmaurice will guide you in the signs that baby is ready for solid food, what foods are good first foods and how to serve them, and allergic reactions. Babies are welcome!

When: Monday 26 June, 10.15am - 12.00pmWhere: Kogarah LibraryBookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Kogarah Library on 9330 9527.

Troy Bramston

Troy Bramston is a senior writer and columnist with The Australian and a contributor to Sky News. He is also the author or editor of seven previous books, including Looking for the Light on the Hill (2011). His latest book is Paul Keating : the big picture leader.

When: Thursday 25 May, 6.30pm - 8.00pmWhere: Hurstville Library Bookings: Essential via www.georgesriverlibraries.eventbrite.com.auEnquiries: Contact Hurstville Library on 9330 6111.

Hurstville Library Corner Queens Road and Dora Street, Hurstville Kogarah Library Kogarah Town Square, Belgrave Street, KogarahOatley Library 26 Letitia Street, Oatley Penshurst Library 630 Forest Road (near Olds Park), PenshurstSouth Hurstville Library Corner Short and Allen Streets, South Hurstville

Pictured: Jane Caro will deliver an inspiring talk on education at Hurstville Library as part of Library and Information Week 2017.

GEORGES RIVER LIBRARIES GEORGES RIVER LIBRARIES

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 201710 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 11

Page 7: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

bE paRT OF aN EXhIbITION!What do you do in your spare time?

Hurstville Museum & Gallery would love to take a photograph of you to include in an upcoming exhibition about leisure activities.

If you live, work or play in the Georges River Council area and would like to be photographed, please contact us on 9330 6444 or [email protected].

ShaUN TaN - ThE aRT OF STORy: dISCOVERING ThE LOST ThING bOOK TO FILM

This exhibition gives a fascinating insight into the making of the acclaimed picture book and multi-award-winning animation The Lost Thing, created by Melbourne-based author and illustrator Shaun Tan.

The story of The Lost Thing is about a boy who befriends a strange creature which seems to be lost. The tale follows the boy’s journey as he tries to find out where this lost thing belongs. The exhibition features a range of original drawings, paintings and other developmental work for both the picture book and the animated film.

When: 22 April - 16 July Where: Hurstville Museum & Gallery, 14 MacMahon Street, HurstvilleContact: 9330 6442 or [email protected]

Pictured: Original illustration by Shaun Tan.

HURSTVILLE MUSEUM & GALLERY

EVERybOdy LOVES LUCyA fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into the television icon, Lucille Ball. Brimming with Lucille Ball’s irrepressible spirit, acclaimed Australian musical theatre star Elise McCann (MAMMA MIA!, South Pacific and Miss Honey in Matilda The Musical) stars in this hilarious cabaret tribute to a true trail-blazer.

When: Friday 30 JuneWhere: Civic Theatre, Hurstville Entertainment Centre 16 MacMahon Street, HurstvilleCost: $29, Concession $20Bookings: www.hec.org.auEnquiries: Contact council on 9330 6400.

Photo by Blueprint Studios.

COUNCIL TO REVITaLISE dOVER paRK WEST FOREShORE – dOVER paRKWork has commenced on a new environmentally friendly seawall and revegetation on the foreshore of Dover Park West located in Shipwright Bay, Blakehurst. The project will revitalise the foreshore and reduce erosion in the area. These works will go towards significantly improving the existing foreshore, which currently has systemic structural failures, and has resulted in significant erosion during storms and king-tides. The project will also include an area to allow park users to sit and access the foreshore.

Funding of $120,000 had been previously provided to Council for the project through the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage’s Estuary Management Program. Council has also matched the funds for the project, which means a total of $240,000 has been allocated to the project.

Work is expected to be completed in June 2017. For more information, please contact Council on 9330 6400 or visit our website at www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.

OpEN day - CaRSS paRK COMMUNITy GaRdENThe Carss Park Community Garden will be hosting their annual Open Day on Saturday 27 May.

This year the community garden members will be donating the funds collected to the Cancer Council as part of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. There will be cakes, scones, tea, coffee, produce and plants available for purchase.

Garden members will be available to answer questions about how the garden operates and garden membership forms will be available.

If you’re interested in learning more about gardening, want to make a donation to the Cancer Council or meet new people then come along to the Carss Park Community Garden Open Day.

When: Saturday 27 May, 10.00am – 2.00pmWhere: 76 Carwar Avenue, Carss Park

For more information visit the Georges River Council website or contact Council’s Service Centre on 9330 6400.

hOUSEhOLd ChEMICaL CLEaN OUTResidents will be able to drop off unwanted chemicals later this month as part of Council’s Household Chemical Clean Out.

When: Saturday 27 May, 9.00am - 3.30pmWhere: Mortdale Depot, entry via Roberts Road, Mortdale

No more than a total of 20kg or 20 litres of the accepted chemicals are allowed to be dropped off at one time.

HURSTVILLE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE ENVIRONMENT, WASTE AND SUSTAINABILITY NEWS

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 201712 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 13

Pictured: Carss Park Community Garden will host their annual Open Day on Saturday 27 May.

Page 8: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

COMpOSTING aWaRENESS MONTh – haLF pRICE COMpOST bINS aNd WORM FaRMS!

As part of Compost Awareness Week and the Compost Revolution Program residents can purchase a worm farm and/or compost bin at half price throughout May 2017.

Using a compost bin or worm farm at home is a great way to reduce the amount of food waste ending up in the red lidded bin and produces lovely compost or worm castings for the garden.

The Compost Revolution Program provides residents with:

• Information on how to operate a compost bin or worm farm

• What you can put in your compost bin or worm farm and

• any FAQ’s that may be troubling you while operating a compost bin or worm farm.

To purchase your compost bin, worm farm, worms and/or bokashi bin at half price visit www.compostrevolution.com.au.

Enter in your address and complete a short tutorial on worm farming or composting to be able to process your purchase.

RESIdENTS CaN RECEIVE $25 TO REMOVE a WORKING SECONd FRIdGE!

Do you have a second working fridge that you no longer use, or is just sitting there consuming half your energy bill?

The Fridge Buyback Program will collect your second working fridge and could provide you with a rebate of up to $25. If the removal involves six stairs or less you’ll be eligible for the $25 rebate.

The Fridge Buyback Program operates under the NSW Government’s Energy Savings Scheme. It entitles households and businesses to reduce their energy usage and cost.

When the fridges are collected the metal is recycled and the harmful chlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons (CFC’S & HCFC’s) refrigerant gases are transported to Melbourne for safe destruction by Refrigerant Claim Australia.

If you would like to be part of this program contact the Fridge Buyback Program on 1800 708 401 or visit www.fridgebuyback.com.au.

FOOTPATH MAINTENANCEUndertake repairs in accordance with Asset Management Plan. IN PROGRESS

SHOPPING CENTRE UPGRADESUpgrade of Chivers Hill Shopping Centre IN PROGRESS

ROADSMelvin Street North, Beverly Hills (full length) COMPLETED

Levett Avenue, Beverly Hills (full length) COMPLETED

Rostrov Street, Penshurst (full length) COMPLETED

Thurbon Avenue, Peakhurst (full length) COMPLETED

Cook Lane, Mortdale (Newman Street to Victoria Avenue) COMPLETED

Bowman Street, Mortdale (full length) COMPLETED

Woronora Parade, Oatley (Myrtle Street to end) COMPLETED

Myrtle Street, Oatley (Woronora Parade to end) COMPLETED

Durkin Place, Peakhurst (full length) COMPLETED

KERB AND GUTTER MAINTENANCEUndertake repairs in accordance with Asset Management Plan IN PROGRESS

PARKSInstallation of Lighting at Vanessa Street Tennis Courts COMPLETED

Replacement – Emma Edwards Reserve Children's Playground COMPLETED

Replacement – Butler Reserve Children's Playground including park upgrade and installation of Rain garden

COMPLETED

Resurfacing – Peakhurst Park Field 1 (Soccer) COMPLETED

Upgrading – floodlighting in Evatt Park COMPLETED

Upgrading – floodlighting in Peakhurst Park COMPLETED

Topdressing – Gannons Park Field 6 COMPLETED

Replacement – Oatley Park Bath Nets IN PROGRESS

Replacement – fencing at Peakhurst Park COMPLETED

Topdressing – Olds Park Field 1 (AFL) COMPLETED

Evatt Park car park – Solar Lighting COMPLETED

Riverwood park flood lighting COMPLETED

Upgrading – floodlighting in Gifford Park COMPLETED

Upgrading – floodlighting in Harold Fraser Oval IN PROGRESS

Upgrading – floodlighting at Carss Park IN PROGRESS

Upgrading – shelters and seating in Sans Souci Park COMPLETED

ENVIRONMENT, WASTE AND SUSTAINABILITY NEWS

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 201714 GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 2017 15

WORKS AND UPGRADES

Page 9: GEORGES RIVER news · will be improved so please provide Council with your feedback. This newsletter also introduces the Georges River Council logo, developed by staff after community

CONTACTSHurstville Service Centre: MacMahon and Dora Streets, Hurstville Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm

Hurstville Library and Service Centre: Corner Queens Road and Dora Street, Hurstville Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9.30am - 9.00pm Saturday - Sunday 9.30 - 4.00pm

Kogarah Library and Service Centre: Kogarah Town Square, Belgrave Street, Kogarah Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.00pm Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm, Sunday 10.00am - 1.00pm

Phone: 9330 6400 24 hours, 7 days a weekEmail: [email protected]: www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au

BRANCH LIBRARY PHONE NUMBERSHurstville: 9330 6111Kogarah: 9330 9527Oatley: 9330 6553Penshurst: 9330 6422 South Hurstville: 9330 9529

WASTE HOTLINE: 1800 079 390For information on household garbage, recycling, garden waste, clean up services, bin repairs, missed services, business waste management, or general enquiries.

EMERGENCY CONTACTSCouncil after hours Emergency: 9330 9400Emergency: Dial 000 for Police, Fire, or Ambulance servicesPolice Assistance Line (non emergency): 131 444Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 1800 333 000State Emergency Services (SES): 132 500

READ GEORGES RIVER NEWS ONLINE: www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au/publicationsSend your feedback to: [email protected]

FREE CHILD CAR SEAT FITTINGSThe best way to ensure your child’s car seat is installed correctly is to ask the advice of a professional. Free vouchers to cover the labour costs of a professional child car seat fitting are available to residents within the Georges River Local Government Area. Call Council’s Service Centre on 9330 6400.

CONNECT WITh USwww.georgesriver.nsw.gov.aufacebook.com/georgesrivercouncil@Georges_River

GEORGES RIVER CounCil

GEORGES RIVER NEWS: May - June 201716