Last Friday afternoon there was an induction for the new members of the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee (PAAC), which I and most of the existing members also went along to. It’s the first time the Shire has held an induction for this group, so a good grounding for all concerned. The PAAC is all about ensuring that Council is kept in touch with the needs of the older members of our community, and is particularly important given the predicted skewing of Surf Coast Shire population ages towards the higher end over the next decade or so.
There are 11 members, and each is drawn from a particular location to ensure representation from our quite different and diverse townships. Jenny Mathison represents Winchelsea, Lyn Batson is Moriac. The PAAC meets every 2 months, it’s not a high demand role but is a critical input for Council. Aireys Inlet needs a representative so if you know someone who would like to volunteer for that town please suggest they call the Shire. I am the Councillor representative for at least this year (chosen every 12 months). It’s good to be a part of the PAAC, a friendly, engaged and important bunch. You can find out more at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/Community/Positive-ageing
The Shire also held a staff awards session last week, recognising those who had been with the Shire 5, 10, 15, 20 30, 40 and even 45 years. Winchelsea’s local legend PK was recognised for his 15 years of service, plus snag-cooking skills. Councillors are deliberately separated from most staff other than senior management (in fact, State government expects this), which made this awards session a rare opportunity to see how dedicated the staff are, and how positive the workplace culture is. A very happy occasion!
Turning to the next 4-Year Council Plan, the 45-member community panel has now wrapped up and presented their 8 principles to Council, which will help us set directions, themes and strategies. The 4-Year Plan must be published by October, so it’s certainly a key focus for Councillors over the next couple of months. The draft version will be presented to the community for feedback, be sure to take the opportunity to give it a once-over when it appears (August?).
The Winchelsea Pool has now closed for the season – it saw around 3,000 enjoy the renovated and revamped heated swimming pool, which is a fabulous take-up by all. Along with the very-nearly-finished adventure playground, the barbecue hut with its community-powered cob walls, and the 2 viewing platforms due to begin construction this month, that area is set to be a major drawcard for locals and visitors alike. Next on the list is to review the traffic flow and parking on Barwo