10 October 2008

VLGA Annual Tour

Cr Bill Penrose and I have spent the last couple on days on the road as part of the VLGA’s Annual Tour where we visited Hindmarsh, West Wimmera and Horsham. I would like to thank the Councillors, and local communities for such warm hospitality.

These visits are a vital component of our consultation and engagement framework and demonstrate our commitment to speaking and listening to Victorian Local Governments ‘on their own turf’.

Bill and I learnt first hand about the challenges facing this region, drought, skill shortages, infrastructure gaps and revenue pressures to name but a few. What resonated strongly with me was the concern about the lack of candidates putting themselves forward in the upcoming Local Government elections.

Some long-standing and experienced Councillors have decided that they won’t be standing and they are concerned that younger people are just not coming forward.

There may be some local communities that do not have a contested election. This is bad sign for democratic participation. The VLGA will continue to work to ensure that improved support and remuneration will lead to increased participation locally.

Staff Changes

In my last e-news I mentioned that Cr Darren Ray is Acting CEO. I am delighted to now confirm that we have also been able to secure the services of Liana Thompson as our Director of Public Affairs and Organisational Development.

As well as being one of the VLGA’s founders and our first President, Liana was also a former Mayor and Councillor, and recently spent three years as a 2^nd level Director at the City of Ballarat.

Warm regards

Beth