The Shire has received a number of queries over the past week in relation to the receiving of Rates Notices by Rate Payers.
Firstly we would like to apologise for the confusion and any inconvenience caused. Our investigations have revealed that a sorting error by the printers has caused some Rates Notices at random to be sent to incorrect postal locations.
In addition, Australia Post have advised that since the beginning of the Pandemic, the post is only been delivered every second day due to a fall in letter numbers being posted.
Where To From Here
At this stage rate payers are not required to do anything. Your Rates Notices should be redirected to you by Australia Post. However, if you still have not received your Rates Notice by today (4 September) then please let us know. In the meantime if you are concerned about the delay and wish to make a Rates payment now then you can contact our Rates team (9575 5126) and they can process this over the phone for you.
Tip Pass & Parking Permit
If you have not received your Rates Notice by 1 September then you can continue using your 2019/20 Parking Permits and Rubbish Tip pass (also contained in your Rates Mail Out). The Shire’s Rangers and Landfill Managers have been made aware of this and will accept these if presented to them. It is expected that at some point in September, every ratepayer should have received a copy of their Rates and a date will be announced when the 2020/21 Tip Pass and Parking Permit will need to be presented instead.
Enquiries
If you would like any further information on the documents you are required to keep or action, please contact the Shire.
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Next Council Meeting
The next Ordinary Council Meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, 15 September 2020 at 3:00pm. This meeting will be open to the public but attendance will be limited due to the continuation of Phase 4 of COVID-19 restrictions until 24 October. Questions for consideration during Public Question Time should be submitted prior to the meeting using the Public Question Time form available from the Shire’s website – www.gingin.wa.gov.au/council-meetings.
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For the information of community members, the following roadworks are in progress for the next month:
- Ongoing construction of the Orange Springs Road $5.2 million upgrade
- Maintenance grading of Mimegarra Road and Nilgen Road
- Road patching as required
- Installation of guideposts
- Ongoing roadside slashing and spraying
Further enquires about these works may be directed to the Shire's Operations team on (08) 9575 5100, option 7.
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Coastal Erosion Funding Success
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The Shire is pleased to advise the community that Council has received four grants to address coastal erosion. As such, the Shire has received $154,576 in grant funding in total.
Two of the grants were awarded under the Coastal Management Plan Assistance Program (CMPAP) from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage. The first was for the Revision Lancelin project which was successful in obtaining $69,865 from a total project cost of $141,170. The second was for the Coastal Hazard Risk Management & Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP) and Inundation Study Integration which is for $51,400 from a total project cost of $106,100.
Council is also waiting to hear if it has been successful in obtaining a further grant from the same program for the Coastal Management Strategy grant which is for $31,962 from a total project cost of $66,925.
The other two grants the Shire was successful in being awarded were from the Department of Transport under the Coastal Adaptation & Protection (CAP) grants scheme. These were for the Ledge Point / Guilderton Groynes Assessment grant for $13,476 from a total project cost of $26,926 and the Hotspot Coastal Monitoring project for $19,835 from a total project cost of $42,735.
Council was advised that it did not receive the Seabird Seawall Assessment grant for $12,190 from a total project cost of $24,381.
This is fantastic news for the Shire and will mean that Council can now take some big steps forward in addressing the issue of coastal erosion.
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Q & A – Dr Conradie’s departure from
the Gingin Medical Centre
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The Shire has received a large number of enquiries from the community in relation to the resignation of Dr Conradie from the Gingin Medical Centre.
The Gingin Medical Centre Committee and the CEO have taken note of the enquiries and given the numerous amount, have spent the past several days preparing a ‘Question & Answer’ response for the enquiries received.
A copy of this can be viewed on the Shire’s website via www.gingin.wa.gov.au/news/q-and-a-for-dr-conradies-departure-from-the-gingin-medical-centre/238. The questions answered include:
- Is the Shire forcing Dr Conradie to leave?
- Why is Dr Conradie leaving?
- Why did the Shire delete some of the comments posted to its post on its Facebook page announcing Dr Conradie’s resignation?
- Why is Dr Conradie not in a position to discuss her reasons for leaving?
- Has the Shire put the rental rate up for the Medical Centre and has building the new building at the Administration Centre been the cause for this?
- Is the CEO at fault and the reason for Dr Conradie’s departure?
- How come the Shire isn’t being open and transparent about this?
- Will there be a public meeting to discuss this matter?
- Why is Dr Conradie the second doctor to leave in such a short time?
- What is the Shire planning to do to replace Dr Conradie?
The Shire thanks the community for their patience in waiting for these answers to be supplied. If community members have any further questions, please contact the Shire via mail@gingin.wa.gov.au or contact the Shire on (08) 9575 5100.
We understand that many in the community feel very passionately about this matter so we are more than happy to answer any questions and clarify queries where we can.
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Whale Carcass in Lancelin
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On Wednesday, 2 September the Shire's Operations Team was called in to deal with a silently more unusual job than normal which was the removal of a whale carcass from the beach in Lancelin.
The carcass had washed ashore and had evidently been in the water for an extended period of time. Fortunately with assistance from Lancelin Sands and the Department of Transport, a tarp and netting was able to be secured from Jurien Bay that afternoon and the carcass was wrapped up and secured further up the beach. It was removed the following day and taken to the tip to be buried.
The Shark alert issued for Lancelin by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development remains in place and additional caution is recommended as any residue from where the whale carcass was beached may still attract sharks to the area.
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Please be advised that there is a small typo on page 7 of this year's Fire Break Orders. The sentence "You must also maintain a water supply of 25,000L for every 5 ha of plantation or part thereof" should read 50 ha - not 5 ha.
This has been corrected in the copy of the Fire Break Orders available on the Shire's website.
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Annual Budget Now Available
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The 2020/21 Budget is now available for viewing on the Shire’s website. This year the Shire has adopted a 0% rate increase as mentioned in previous articles. The total revenue the Shire collects from Rate Payers remains unchanged from 2019/20.
This year the Shire will be undertaking some big projects including:
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- Gingin Colocation Fire Shed - $2,181,500*
- Lancelin Skate Park Bowl (at BMX Track) – Stage 2 - $218,000*
- Gingin Regional Playground - $1,025,890*
- Cunliffe Street Development - $500,000*
- Granville Civic Centre Building repairs, roof & ceiling replacement and LED lighting - $145,500
*Project is subject to receiving external funding.
Despite the financial strain caused to many of our local businesses by the pandemic, the Shire is delighted to welcome a number of local businesses which have come on board to sponsor the Shire’s Early Rates Incentive Scheme. We thank those businesses wholeheartedly for their support this year given the unique circumstances. This scheme really does help us to action community projects sooner rather than later. Their generous contributions will make up terrific prizes for 10 lucky early ratepayers – some of whom may very much welcome the opportunity to win one of the prizes if they have been doing it tough because of the pandemic. The date for the random prize draw is 18 September with the Prize Night to occur in November.
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Phase 5 Easing of Restrictions (COVID-19)
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If you hadn’t heard already, the easing of COVID-19 restrictions into Phase 5 for WA has been pushed back again – this time to 24 October. Shire services still remain affected by this which means that you may be asked to use sanitiser when you visit our facilities, to register to attend Council Meetings, etc. A full list of affected services can be found on the Shire’s website (www.gingin.wa.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19.aspx).
The hire of the community bus still remains unavailable for the time being until further restrictions are relaxed.
Please Remember: social distancing measures still remain in place if you visit our facilities. Please maintain 1.5m between yourself and the nearest person. We encourage you to make use of the available hand sanitiser but most importantly, if you are unwell please stay home.
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The Shire would like to welcome Amy Gibbs to our team as the Shire’s new Community Events & Services Officer. Amy grew up on a small farm in Albany and attended Perth Modern School before heading to Perth to undertake a Bachelor of Arts with a Double Major in International Aid and Community Development, Politics and International Relations and a Minor in Public Policy and Management.
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Amy has previously worked for the Department of the Premier & Cabinet and the University of Notre Dame. She takes over from Cher Groves who will now operate as the Shire’s Recovery & Facilities Officer. The Shire hopes that the community will make Amy feel very welcome in her new role.
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Social Media & Mutual Respect
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As a community, every single member is entitled to have an opinion and comment on posts that the Shire shares on local topics and issues with the community on its Facebook and Youtube channels. Council in fact encourages commentary on these topics and issues. We want to hear our community’s opinion on all topics and often it can provide valuable insight that help Council to factor in the community’s viewpoint when making decisions.
However, increasingly as of late the community may have noticed that some of their comments are being deleted from Shire posts. All community members deserve to be able to discuss their thoughts and opinions on public matters in an environment of mutual respect. This also includes Councillors and staff who have increasingly been on the receiving end of significant amounts of derogatory language, unfounded accusations, etc.
Council respects the right of community members to voice their opinions, especially on local projects and issues they feel passionately about. There are several issues currently which the community clearly wants to communicate their concern to Council about. However, that does not excuse poor behaviour online, especially in light of the fact that many would not make such comments face to face when speaking to Council or staff. Many of the comments are blatantly false and/or derogatory and most times the Shire often hasn’t even been approached in the first instance by the community to seek clarification on these matters.
Council asks that the community please remember that they and staff are here first and foremost to service our community. We strongly believe in being open and transparent and we will continue to work hard to improve how we communicate with the community. In return we ask that the community respects our efforts. We are all in this together so let us together forge ahead so that we can continue to be a progressive community that celebrates our diversity and unique way of life.
As such, all comments that are deemed to be offensive, obscene, defamatory, threatening, harassing, bullying, hateful, racist, sexist or otherwise unlawful, will be recorded and then deleted.
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The Shire of Gingin is seeking nominations for community members who have stepped up and performed admirably within our community over the past 12 months. We’ve had some huge events take place during that time and there are plenty of unrecognised community members out there still quietly continuing to serve the community. We encourage the community to really have a think about these very deserving recipients. In big or small ways – how did they make our community a better place this year?
Nominations close 31 October 2020.
To find out more and to nominate, simply fill in the online form found at the following link - www.citizenshipawards.com.au/nominate/.
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For those community members who are wondering - the annual collection of green waste will take place after the September long weekend (26-28).
Rate payers who qualify for this service (Residential and Rural Residential properties only within the Shire of Gingin district) will receive a copy of the above flyer in the post.
Residents wishing to take advantage of this service are required to have their green waste placed on the verge no later than Monday, 28 September 2020.
For any further queries on this scheduled event please contact Danica Todd at the Shire Depot on (08) 9575 5169.
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Employment Vacancy - General Hand
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The Shire of Gingin is offering an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and skilled person to take on the position of General Hand. This position will be responsible for assisting with the construction and maintenance of the Shire’s road network and infrastructure. The position is well suited to a person coming in at entry level or someone who already has some experience and is looking to develop a career in Local Government. This position will provide an excellent range of both practical and technical skills relating to road construction and maintenance.
This position is being offered on the basis of permanent full-time employment with a salary of $59,640 per annum, plus superannuation up to 14.5%.
To Apply
A position description can be viewed on the Shire's website in addition to a second link to apply online - visit www.gingin.wa.gov.au/employment/general-hand/50.
All applications should include a covering letter, a statement addressing the selection criteria and a résumé detailing your relevant experience, qualifications and skills. Applications close 4pm, Monday, 14 September 2020.
Note: Canvassing of Councillors will disqualify your application.
Enquiries
Aaron Cook
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION
Coastal Inundation Study
At its meeting held 18 August, Council received the Coastal Inundation Study for the Shire of Gingin.
The Study is available to the public for inspection on the Shire’s via the below link. Council will not be accepting submissions or comments from the public for this Study given that it is a scientific report.
The Study will be incorporated into the Shire of Gingin Coastal Hazard Risk Management Adaptation Plan and at that time, the community will be invited to make submissions and comment when the consultation process is undertaken.
Coastal Inundation Study
For further enquiries on this matter please contact the Shire on (08) 9575 5100.
Aaron Cook
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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CALL FOR PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS
Proposed closure of the Edward Island Point
4x4 Vehicle Access Track
The Shire of Gingin is inviting submissions from the public in relation to the proposed closure of the Edward Island Point 4x4 Vehicle Access Track in Lancelin.
Due to the erosion being experienced and the increase in storm activity and height of tide and storm surges, the area from Grace Darling Park through to Edward Island Point is now a serious breach point for sea water into the Caravan Park and town site. It is proposed that the track be closed for the purpose of re-creating dunes, re-establishing vegetation and increasing natural protection for the Lancelin Caravan Park and Lancelin town site.
A copy of the item presented to Council at its August Council Meeting (which details the comprehensive background of this issue) can be found below. This issue was also presented to and discussed by the Coastal Erosion Advisory Committee in Lancelin on 10 August 2020.
Written submissions can be submitted up until 4pm on Friday, 11 September 2020.
Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and clearly marked “Submission – Proposed Closure of the Edward Island Point 4x4 Vehicle Access Track”. Submissions may be emailed to mail@gingin.wa.gov.au or posted to the Shire of Gingin, PO Box 510, Gingin WA 6503.
ITEM 11.1.1 - Edward Island Point Track, Lancelin
For further enquiries on this matter please contact the Shire on (08) 9575 5100.
Aaron Cook
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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CALL FOR PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS
Creation of Additional Vehicle Prohibited Area between Hopkins St & Back Beach, Lancelin
The Shire of Gingin is inviting submissions from the public in relation to the proposed creation of a new vehicle prohibited area between Hopkins St and the Back Beach, Lancelin.
The area in question is affected by coastal erosion and this action is seen as being appropriate to increase protection to Lancelin. As has been stated in the Shire’s Coastal Inundation Study (the Study) the density of the sand dunes is a critical measurement of protection for Lancelin. It has been proven that 4x4 vehicle access to beaches dramatically affects the protection of the dunes and, as such, positive dune regrowth (also aided by Council) will increase the level of protection for Lancelin.
A copy of the item presented to Council at its August Council Meeting (which details the comprehensive background of this issue) can be found below in addition to a map showing the proposed area to be prohibited. This issue was also presented to and discussed by the Coastal Erosion Advisory Committee in Lancelin on 10 August 2020.
Written submissions can be submitted up until 4pm on Monday, 14 September 2020.
Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and clearly marked “Submission – Proposed creation of new Vehicle Prohibited Area, Lancelin”. Submissions may be emailed to mail@gingin.wa.gov.au or posted to the Shire of Gingin, PO Box 510, Gingin WA 6503.
ITEM 11.1.2 - Creation of Additional Vehicle Prohibited Area between Hopkins St and Back Beach, Lancelin
Map of proposed new Prohibited Vehicle Area
For further enquiries on this matter please contact the Shire on (08) 9575 5100.
Aaron Cook
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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PUBLIC NOTICE OF PLANNING PROPOSAL
Proposed Extractive Industry (Limesand) at Lot 1 & 2 Indian Ocean Drive, Breton Bay
The Shire of Gingin has received an application to use and/or develop land for the following purpose and public comments are invited:
LOT NO: LOT 1 & 2 INDIAN OCEAN DRIVE, BRETON BAY
PROPOSAL: PROPOSED EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY (LIMESAND)
Plans and documents setting out and explaining the proposal can be viewed at the link/s below, or alternatively at the Shire of Gingin’s Administration Office, 7 Brockman Street, Gingin or Lancelin Office, Vins Way, Lancelin.
Proposal
Location Map
Stakeholder Comment Form
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to the Chief Executive Officer in writing on or before 4.00pm on Wednesday, 23 September 2020. Comments may be submitted either by post (Attn: Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Gingin, PO Box 510, Gingin WA 6503) or email (mail@gingin.wa.gov.au).
All enquiries regarding this proposal should be made to the Shire’s Manager Statutory Planning on (08) 9575 5100 or mail@gingin.wa.gov.au.
Aaron Cook
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Being involved in a community club or organisation can be a very rewarding experience. We are fortunate to have many community, sporting and religious organisations within the Shire of Gingin.
The Shire provides a list of organisations and clubs as a courtesy on our website so that local community members can find your contact details. From time to time however, the page needs updating when the contact details for your club change.
If your details have changed then please visit the Community Club/Organisations section on our website and fill in the form at the bottom of the page. Once we receive your details we can then update your information.
Can't find your organisation? You can also use the same update form to submit a request to us to add your details to our page.
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Let's work together to stop the spread of COVID-19
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Please practice good hand hygiene and social distancing
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WA COVID-19 HOTLINE 132 68 43
AUSTRALIAN COVID-19 HOTLINE 1800 020 080
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COVID-19 Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is general guidance and should not replace professional advice concerning individual circumstances. The pandemic continues to evolve and the accuracy of the information contained in this newsletter cannot be guaranteed should the situation have changed following the date of issue for this newsletter.
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