Published on Tuesday, 26 July 2022 at 6:50:15 AM
It has been weeks between updates as I have taken a well-earned holiday with the family. I love to travel and explore. Travel is one joy of life, and I especially love visiting new off the beaten track places. I also have return favourite places I will forever continue to visit, those special spots that keep calling me back like home. This time it was the Northwest, Pilbara, Gascoyne, and Murchison, spectacular ancient landscapes vastly different to Chapman Valley. The wonderful thing about going beyond the boundaries of everyday life is the people I meet, and the learnings of how others do life and business which can inform innovative ideas and projects right here in the valley. These ideas might be interpretive signage, public amenities, social gatherings, pop up businesses, people and place identity, and place experiences. There is so much to gain from travel. And most of all family holidays leave incredible impressions on the next generation in the memories we create together.
Once again, I will mention that the council welcomes feedback from our community at any time. This feedback contributes and informs us as elected members whilst being mindful there are processes which underpin our decision making. Council currently seeks your final views on the Community Strategic Plan. This plan underpins an array of integrated planning documents including corporate governance plan, workforce plans, and financial plans, and is the strategic vision for the next 4 years. If you would like to view the draft document or have not had the opportunity to participate in the surveys and consultation workshops, now is your opportunity. Please head to the Shire’s webpage to find the document link or call by the offices to view a hard copy.
The Shire will be host to noteworthy events in the coming month, including the FABCV winter art series, with Midwest local artist Janeen Horne taken up residency for a week in Yuna from 25th to 29th July, polymer clay workshop at Bill Hamersley Park 14th August, and Wildflower photography workshop 20th and 21st August at the CV Fishing Park. Information and ticketing are available through Eventbrite.
The Backroads gravel race will also be winding its way through the Valley on the 20th August. There are loads of way of getting involved. Volunteer as a marshal along the route, assist with catering, or enter as rider. Details can be found online. It sure will be a draw card for our patch and the Chapman Valley Shire is thrilled to be hosting this event.
From my desk this month there has been continued advocacy work with Department of Fire and Emergency Services, WALGA, Northern Country Zone, Department of Main Roads, Minister for Transport, Regional Development Australia, local committee meetings, and meeting and consulting with local community, in the quest for a better rural life for us here in the Valley. Meanwhile Council and staff have been diligently finalising the 2022-2023 draft budget and making consideration on a vast list of requests, and balancing priorities with resources available. More details of major projects and areas of spending will be forthcoming in August.
Best wishes for the month ahead. I encourage all to travel the road less travelled and explore beyond your boundaries. There truly are many gems to be found (including spotting the first blooms of everlastings- they are popping up 😊 )
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