Mayoral Matters - August 2021

Published on 13 August 2021

I know we are all relieved to see the easing of the most recent snap lockdown specifically for us in regional Victoria this week. This state government decision is a welcome one and a reminder to all of us here in Northern Grampians Shire of how lucky we are to live in the country. 

The new directives mean we can travel anywhere in Victoria except metro Melbourne (unless for a permitted reason). Let’s take advantage of this new freedom to enjoy the magnificent weather heading our way and get out and about in the countryside. Everything is looking absolutely stunning thanks to the abundant rain lately; waterfalls are flowing, rivers, lakes and farm dams are full to the brim, wattle and wildflowers are blooming and hints of spring are everywhere.

Since lockdown has lifted for us in country Victoria, we can plan activities outdoors with groups of up to 10 people, so consider gathering up some friends or relatives to tour the region, visit our local shops and check out Council’s new and inviting Pop Up Parks in Halls Gap and Stawell. While you are out and about, spare a thought for your Melbourne and interstate connections too and buy them a locally made gift from our shire businesses. It will benefit our local economy and cheer up our city friends who are doing it quite a bit tougher than us at the moment.

Aside from the pop up parks, there are many other community projects underway at Council. Of note, the Market Square play space in St Arnaud is now open and features all abilities access and natural spaces for young children to explore. This was part of the Market Square Master Plan 2019 and we are happy to see it ticked off on our action plan. Take the kids for a play there soon! It is also terrific to see the North Park Netball Courts project works commence this week and we will keep the community updated on its progress. It will be a feather in the cap of the North Park Precinct when complete.

I am pleased to learn that the vaccination program is moving along well, and I thank everyone who is heading into their GP or our hospital clinics to “get the jab”.  You can find the latest information and links from our health agencies on our website.  Current vaccination statistics for our region indicate that 45.7 per cent of people aged 15 and over have had a single dose of the vaccine; let’s see if we can tip that number over 50 per cent in the next couple of weeks.

As a final note, I trust everyone has received a copy of their Census forms this week and if you did not, please contact the Australian Bureau of Statistics on 1800 512 441 to request one. Completing the Census is compulsory for all householders under the Census and Statistics Act 1905. Please fill it in responsibly as there are hefty fines for not completing it ($222 per day) or making up silly answers ($2,220). This data is important to our community as it helps Council extensively with all areas of local government service provision.

Have a lovely week ahead, enjoy the weather and our new found freedom to travel the countryside.

Cr Murray Emerson

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor