Councillor Report 11 April 2018

 Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 11 April 2018

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

12 April                 Skateboarding Championship – Esk Skate Park – Youth Week

13 April                 Movie Night Toogoolawah – Youth Week

14 April                 Somerset Dam & District Progress Assn Annual General Meeting

16 April                 Fernvale Community Assn. Monthly Meeting

17 April                 Lowood Residents Assn Monthly Meeting

18 April                 Kilcoy & District Progress Assn Monthly Meeting

20 April                 Holt Bolt – Kilcoy

20 April                 “Women Like Us” – Comedy Show Kilcoy

21 April                 Prenzlau Pride’s Car & Music Show – Lowood Showground

21 April                 Kilcoy Diggers Races

Congratulations to the former Coominya resident Dane Sampson on winning gold in the men’s 10m air rifle at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.  The proud winner proudly mentioned his hometown of Coominya and his parents who still own the local convenience store there.

Congratulations also to the Esk Branch of the QWCA and Kilcoy Gymnastics on successful grant applications.

Join Deb Frecklington and Andrew Powell by signing the petition to stop patching and start resurfacing the D’Aguilar Highway from Kilcoy to Woodford.

Agenda Item #32 Councillors’ Report

04 April                 Somerset Dam & District Progress Assn Monthly Management Committee Meeting

05 April                 Brisbane Valley Heritage Trail Committee Meeting and the Man on the $20 Note

06 April                 Kilcoy Show

08 April                Diabetic Health Program – Kilcoy

09 April                 BMX Competition – Kilcoy – Youth Week

11 April                 Economic Development Plan Committee Meeting – Esk

Councillor Report – 28 March 2018

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

29 March             RSL Pharmacist Advisor – Kilcoy

31 March             Blessing of the bikes – Toogoolawah

03 April                 Scooter Comp – Fernvale

04 April                 Somerset & District Progress Assn Management Meeting

04 April                 Commonwealth Games Gold Coast Opening Ceremony

05 April                 Brisbane Valley Heritage Trails Committee Meeting & Man on the $20 Note – Moore

05 April                 Kilcoy Art Society Inc. General Meeting

06/07 April          Kilcoy Show

07 April                 Lowood Spudds & Dudds B&S Ball

08 April                 Social Sequence Dance – Glamorgan Vale Hall

09 April                 BMX Comp – Kilcoy Skate Park

Iconic Queensland features the best of the 2017 Queensland Regional Art Awards winners, there were nine winners which includes Ms Helenna Dohle (Linville) Stairway to Heaven – People’s Choice Award (Youth).  Congratulations to Ms Dohle.

The Queen’s Baton Relay Community Celebrations held in Kilcoy on 27 March was a complete success.  Appreciation to all those involved with the celebrations.

Agenda Item #74 Councillors’ Report

16 March             Somerset Region Community Support Assn Meeting – Toogoolawah

16 March             Meeting with local resident – Harlin

16 March             Inspection of Kangaroo Creek Road – Harlin

20 March             Council Budget Bus Trip

21 March             Kilcoy & District Progress Alliance Inc AGM & General Meeting

22 March             KCC&C Inc Meeting

23 March             Council of Mayors – Economic Development Committee Meeting – Brisbane

25 March             Diabetic Health Program – Kilcoy

27 March             Kilcoy Interagency Meeting

27 March             Jimna Fire Tower meeting

27 March             Community Celebration – Queen’s Baton Relay – Kilcoy

28 March             Kilcoy State School P & C Assn – AGM

Affordable Rates – State Government Report

MEDIA RELEASE
29 MARCH 2018
Somerset’s Affordable Rates – Effective Services Confirmed Again

A STATE Government report in March 2018 has confirmed that Somerset Regional Council’s average residential rates and charges for 2017/2018 are the cheapest in south east Queensland.

Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann hailed the report.

“This confirms what we already knew – average residential rates and charges in Esk, Fernvale, Kilcoy, Lowood and Toogoolawah are the cheapest in south east Queensland,” Cr Lehmann said.

“We know that household budgets are under strain and our point of difference with other areas is in our vision of affordable rates, effective services.
“Our philosophy has always been to find practical solutions for providing services and to look to revenue sources other than rates where possible.”
“Examples are our practical, low-cost approaches to areas such as our IT business systems and our approach to waste management which allows ratepayers to take control and responsibility over their waste and recycling.

“We are also acutely aware that, while they are improving, median household incomes in Somerset are lower than in many other places.

The report which was released on 27 March 2018 is available on the Department of Local Government website at http://localgovernment.qld.gov.au/resources-ilgp/plans-strategies-reports/local-government-comparative-reports.html.

Councillor Report 14 March 2018

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 14 March 2018

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

17 March             Easter Carnival Glamorgan Vale Hall

18 March             Jammin in Esk – Somerset Civic Centre

24 March             Cent Auction Lowood Show Hall

24 March             Lioness afternoon tea & fashions – Toogoolawah

27 March             Community Celebrations Queen’s Baton Relay

Although the weather was a little damp, the Colours of Somerset Festival was declared a complete success by the festival organiser Idell Wadley. Ms Wadley was overwhelmed how well everything came together at the Fernvale Campdraft grounds venue.  The festival showcased culture, services, talent and goods on offer in the Somerset Region and surrounding areas.

On 11 March 1878 Mary McConnell established the first children’s hospital in Queensland (second in Australia to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne).   Proudly on 8^th March 2018, Mary’s great-great-great-granddaughter Caitlin McConnel had the honour of speaking at the Children’s Hospital Foundation International Women’s Day breakfast, where the Foundation officially launched the Mary McConnel Career Boost Program for Women in Pediatric Research.

Agenda Item # 40 Councillors’ Report

01 March             Brisbane Valley Heritage Committee Meeting – Blackbutt

01 March             Kilcoy Art Society Inc. AGM & General Meeting

04 March             Diabetic Health Program

07 March             Somerset & District Progress Assn. Meeting

10 March             Save/Colour for a Cure – Kilcoy Sports Centre

10 March             Colours of Somerset Art & Culture Festival – Fernvale

10 March             Kilcoy Show Ball

11 March             Diabetic Health Program – Kilcoy

13 March             Crime Prevention Meeting – Fernvale

14 March             Kilcoy State High School P & C Meeting

14 March             Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Group Meeting

Somerset Regional Council Meets with Local Businesses with Great Success – Media Release 15 March 2018

Somerset Regional Council Meets with Local Businesses with Great Success

Every Councillor, the CEO, Directors and other senior staff attended the “Greet and Meet” forum held at the Kilcoy Information Centre on Thursday 22^nd February 2018.  The two-hour forum informed approximately forty business proprietors about council structure and administration, local achievements, future plans and goals. The Mayor welcomed everyone and performed the role of Master of Ceremonies.

Cr Gaedtke has received a lot of positive feedback and it is clear that business proprietors are now looking forward to advancing the communication pathway.

Council authorised the upgrading of its Economic Development Plan and Investment Strategy in August 2014.

The 2015 – 2020 Somerset Economic Development Plan includes focus on growth in our region; regional challenges and opportunities; themes for economic development; business growth; tourism; capability building; infrastructure investment and making it all happen.  A copy of the plan is available on council’s website.

An Implementation Working Group has been formed and is made up of Council, Kilcoy Chamber of Commerce, Somerset Region Business Alliance, and representatives from the business community.  The group’s role is to implement and guide the plan by meeting regularly to review the progress and take forward new initiatives and make the most of available resources.

State Government has stated in the past, that Mayors and Councillors hold the key to regional economic success in Queensland.  State Government see themselves as providing the supporting infrastructure and funding to assist Mayors and Councils do the things they need to do, and that its economic development policy will be about encouraging industry in those regional centres.

Most importantly, today we must all accept responsibility, and be supportive of economic growth and understand the benefits of this ongoing attitude.  Attitudes that include shopping locally, possessing a happy and positive disposition, and selling our area to all we meet.  Consider also the answers to the questions – Who are we?; What is our economy?; What are our problems and opportunities?; What are our strengths?; What do we want to be?; How do we get there?; What resources do we have and need?; Who is responsible?; How much does it cost?;  and lastly, How do we know when we get there?

Cr Gaedtke said “Take on board the above points, and the experts tell us how easy it is to implement economic development with great success”.    Cr Gaedtke appreciates this simple approach, however is aware of the implication of Town Planning Regulations, State Government Regulations, Development Application Fees and State Agency Referrals.

Councillor Report – 28 February 2018

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 28 February 2018

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Congratulations to Graham Retschlag of Kilcoy for successfully claiming two Australian Titles and representing Queensland in the chainsaw racing competition held at Tenterfield.

I would also like to report that the free Diabetic Health Program being held every Sunday evening in Kilcoy is to date, being very well supported with over 250 community members learning of lifestyle eating changes that will improve general health and wellbeing.

02 March             St Mary’s Anglican Church Kilcoy World Pray Day

10 March             St Mary’s Anglican Church Kilcoy Cent Auction

10 March             Esk Races

10 March             Colours of Somerset Art & Culture Festival – Fernvale

10 March             Kilcoy Show Ball

13 March             Crime Prevention Public Meeting – Fernvale

Agenda Item #30 Councillors’ Report

14 February        Kilcoy State High School P & C Meeting

15 February        Councillors’ Role & Responsibilities – Newstead

17 February        Lowood Lions Youth of the Year Quest

18 February        Diabetic Health Program – Kilcoy

19 February        Student Leaders Investiture – Toogoolawah State High School

19 February        RADF Committee Meeting – Esk

20 February        Kilcoy State High School Council Meeting

20 February        Lowood District Residents Network Inc. Meeting

21 February        Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Meeting

22 February        Kilcoy Showground Reserve Overall Management Committee Meeting – Apology given

22 February        Meet & Greet Kilcoy Businesses

23 February        Rv. Jilleen Chambers Commissioning as Priest-in-Charge St Mary’s Anglican Church Kilcoy – Apology given

24 February        Glenwood Aged Care Facility Family Day Lowood –  Apology given

24 February        Go Nuts with Salubrious – Mt Archer – Apology given

26 February        Student Leaders Investiture – Kilcoy State High School  –  Apology given

26 February        Somerset Condensery Gallery Advisory Committee Meeting – Toogoolawah –  Apology given

27 February        Kilcoy Interagency Meeting

28 February        Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc. Meeting

Due to a very sore back I was forced to take time out, hence the apologies as given.  My husband also ended up at Caboolture ED Sunday night and then at RBH Monday 25/26 February.  (If it doesn’t rain, it definitely pours at time.)

Thumbs up Thumbs down for the ongoing debate of kerbside recycling in our region

Cr Gaedtke shares her concern and asks “Is the end of kerbside recycling in sight”?

Recycling is a very talked about matter, and one that has many standpoints.  I am definitely one who loves to recycle, and I have actively supported the initiative for over a decade.  For many of us it has always rated as our number one sustainability activity.  Putting the yellow lid bin out every fortnight make us feel like we are doing our bit, but I find myself now questioning “What are the real environmental, dollar costs and fiscal benefits”?

With so many ill-fated actions of late regarding recycling, is this the dead-end sign for kerbside recycling?  As from 1 January 2018, China effectively placed a ban on specific imported low-value materials.  China will continue to import, however, insists that the material to be of a quality product.  China has also changed its own strategy with recycling sorting facilities, and the Chinese people are voicing their concerns about environmental pollution, and in doing so are demanding smarter and better practices. Chinese people have been generating more of their own material for recycling, and expect China to process their own, rather than import from other countries.

China (and its neighbours) also take electrical cable, computers, metal scraps, tyres, textiles and clothing.  They also task themselves with the responsibility of sorting, washing, granulating and reprocessing materials ready to make new products.

Somerset Regional Councillors and senior Staff have analysed in depth what is best for our region.  There are many pros and cons, and also a need for crystal gazing. 

Notwithstanding, Somerset Regional Council actively recycles metal waste dumped at our landfill sites.  In fact, Somerset residents are encouraged to take advantage of free recycling available at Coominya, Esk, Kilcoy and Harlin refuse tips.  Our Council actively promotes the recycling of metal, batteries, cardboard, glass and more through these facilities.   

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 14 February 2018

 Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Congratulations to Donna Davidson, Christine Staats, Michelle Gorey, Christine Swinton and Kilcoy’s own Taylah Smith for representing Australia at the first ever International Women’s Tent Pegging Championship held at Khasab in Oman (Middle East) coming away with two silver medals and a gold medal in the World competition.  Overall Australia narrowly finished second in the competition to South Africa.

Congratulations to Taylah and Britney Arthurson of Fernvale for being selected to represent their club, Queensland Cheer Elite, at the NCA Nationals competition to held in the USA which attracts 25,000 cheerleaders from around the world.

14 February        Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Group Meeting  –  The purpose of the meeting on Wednesday 14^th February 2018 is for members to consider the future of BVK Landcare and decide on what action to take.    It is hoped that a successful review of the group’s direction is forthcoming.

14 February        Mt Kilcoy State School Badge Presentation

17 February        Lions Youth of the Year – Lowood & Toogoolawah

19 February        Student Leaders Investiture – Toogoolawah High School

20 February        Lowood District Residents Network Inc. Meeting

22 February        “Kilcoy Meet & Greet”   (Council – Local Business Meet & Greet)

24 February        Lowood Glenwood Aged Care Facility – Family Day

24 February        Endeavour Foundation – Mt Archer Falls

Agenda Item #35 Councillors’ Report

25 January          Kilcoy Chamber of Commerce & Community Inc. Meeting

26 January          Australia Day Celebrations – Somerset Civic Centre

26 January          Somerset Dam & District Progress Assn. – Sausage Sizzle & inspection of recent hall improvements

28 January          Bodo Muche Memorial Service – Toogoolawah The Condensery

31 January          Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Meeting

01 February        LG Sherlock Briefing – Esk

01 February        Meeting with Business Owner – Esk

01 February        Kilcoy & District Historical Society Meeting

03 February        Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users – Greeting riders at The Condensery

04 February        Kilcoy Lions Club Meeting

04 February        4D Living Healthy Lifestyle Program

08 February        Meeting at Kilcoy Skate Park

08 February        Kilcoy State School P&C Meeting

09 February        Maleny Community Centre – Roadcase Tour (Arts Qld)

09 February        White Knight – Kilcoy Art Society

11 February        4D Living Healthy Lifestyle Program

12 February        Kilcoy Show Society  –  Show Ball practice

13 February        Mt Kilcoy Sandy Creek Rural Fire Brigade AGM

Cr Gaedtke supports local free health and well-being program

Cr Gaedtke supports local free health and well-being program

After attending a meeting about the program, and learning that the program is for anyone struggling with a range of lifestyle-related diseases, Cr Gaedtke advises that she is all for helping the general well-being of community members of Kilcoy and surrounding areas.  4D Living, a registered not-for-profit charity is bringing to Kilcoy the “Diabetic Health Clinic Lifestyle Program” totally free of charge.  The Founder of the program, Mr Peter Pratt informed Cr Gaedtke that the program is for anyone who is sick and tired of struggling with weight issues, poor health due to lifestyle-related issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, arthritic pains, poor quality sleep and many others.

There would not be too many people in our community who would not have suffered at one time or another with at least one of the focused health issues.  Cr Gaedtke wants residents to fight back and join in with the sediment “That enough is enough!”.   A very unique program that has helped hundreds of people transition to an enjoyable way of life that allows participants to make the choices that remove the main cause of most chronic diseases.

Cr Gaedtke met some of the people involved with a pilot group of 16 who undertook the Diabetic Health Clinic Program in early 2017 under the guidance of Peter Pratt at the Kilcoy General Practice.  Some comments made by group members since the successful pilot are:  ´This program is professional, informative and life changing.  This is a great opportunity for everyone to learn to be healthy.   This program has changed my life, my outlook on life and the true meaning of great food.  So happy to be medicine free´.

Want to learn more?  The program starts on Sunday 4 February 2018 at the Kilcoy Memorial Hall and you can reserve your seats by visiting www.diabetichealthclinic.org/register or  complete a registration form available at the Kilcoy General Practice.

Councillor Report – 21 December 2017

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 21 December 2017

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

22 December     Lowood Christmas Carols

23 December     Somerset Village Jazz and Light Show 

Congratulations to Mr Rusty Kraut who has celebrated 50 years of being a member of the Rural Fire Service.   Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has compiled a video of Mr Kraut explaining why he joined the services 50 years ago and inviting local community members to consider joining their local Rural Fire Service.

Congratulations to Kilcoy Motorcross Club for being selected the winners of the Motorcycling Queensland “MXstore” Club of the Year – 2017.  The award is in recognition of the club’s commitment and dedication as a team.

Agenda Item #33 Councillors’ Report

07 December     Brisbane Valley Heritage Trails Committee AGM & Christmas Lunch – Blackbutt

08 December     Somerset Region Community Support Association Committee AGM & Christmas Lunch – Esk

08 December     Beach Boyz – Somerset Civic Centre – Esk

09 December     Kilcoy Lions Christmas Carnival – Yowie Park

12 December     Kilcoy & District Cultural Village Committee Meeting

14 December     Kilcoy & District Historical Society Committee Christmas Dinner

16 December     Esk Races

Brisbane Valley Heritage Trails Committee AGM & Christmas Lunch – Blackbutt & Somerset Region Community Support Association Committee AGM & Christmas Lunch – Esk

A lovely lunch was shared at both AGMs and the executive was re-elected unopposed.  Congratulations to all and for doing such a wonderful job over the past twelve months.

Beach Boyz – Somerset Civic Centre – Esk

Around 200 people enjoyed the many songs of the Beach Boys.  The tribute band were very professional and their rendition of the songs were welcomed by all.

Kilcoy Lions Christmas Carnival – Yowie Park

A good crowd gathered to enjoy the Christmas Carnival held in the beautiful Yowie Park.  There was lots to do and see – the Yowie Markets, kids’ fun games, Kilcoy Craft Market and Kilcoy Hall of History were offering their specialties, Heritage Trucks and Cars, kids’ carnival rides and of course Santa Clause.  Santa was able to visit to the children’s delight prior to the storm.

Esk Races

John and I were asked to judge the Fashions of the Field, and we thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon.  The weather was beautiful with a nice cool breeze keeping us all enjoying the five races held at the Esk racetrack.  It was truly a lovely way to spend an afternoon out for Christmas.  Well done Esk Jockey Club – see you all again in 2018!