At a recent briefing, the officers of the Shire put forward their recommendation that Council approve the scope of works associated with the Federal Government Grant for Emerald Lake Park.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – This report is presented to Council to discuss the future direction for a number of projects and opportunities at Emerald Lake Park.

BACKGROUND – Council adopted the Emerald Lake Park Strategic Park Plan in September 2006. Based on the priorities of the Plan, an application for Regional Partnership Funding was made to the Federal Government in 2007 for $500,000 ($500,000 Council and $60,000 Sport and Recreation Victoria) to undertake much needed improvements to the Park.

Confirmation of this grant was received in February 2009.

A number of priorities in the Strategic Plan have been implemented including the main bridge being repaired, water slides removed and new playground installed, $10 Cardinia residents parking permit etc.

Better Regions Funding – $500,000 matching Council funding for the Federal Government Grant was included in the 2007/08 Capital Works Program. These funds have subsequently been carried forward whilst awaiting an outcome on the grant. The Labour Candidate for Latrobe made a commitment as part of the 2007 Federal Election for $500,000 toward this project. Confirmation of this grant was received in February 2009. Officers met with a representative of the Federal Government on 17 April 2009 to discuss the draft agreement for the project.

Based on the priorities of the Strategic Plan, the application made in 2007, clarification of aspects of the grant with the Federal Government, and the Draft Funding Agreement, the works included with this report are proposed to be carried out to provide much needed improvements to the Park.

Consultation with the Advisory Committee, tenants of the Park, media releases, and signage at the Park regarding notification of works will need to be communicated.

Conclusion – The proposed works will improve accessibility, enhance the capacity of the venue to host events and expand the range of opportunities for visitors to enjoy in the Park. The improvements will ensure that the parks infrastructure is of a standard expected in a regional public park.

Preparation of the vegetation management plan will provide a strategic basis for future works and support subsequent grant applications to attract further funding for the Park.

On approval of these works, Council officers will complete the Draft Funding Agreement provided by the Federal Government. It is anticipated that some physical works could commence in July/August this year. Other aspects of the grant will take more time to plan prior to works commencing.

Motion raised at the  June 2009 General Council Meeting – Passed.

19th August 2009

The Opening of the Heritage Nobelius Water Sensitive Urban Drainage 

Minister Tim Holding opens the drainage facility

Paul Dunlop discusses the 'official speech' with Ed C.

More comfortable speaking off the cuff!

In over 50 years of working as an Engineer in industry, I have only worked with 2 Lady Engineers. Angie Dean on my right, is a very competent Engineer for Cardinia Shire, as is Marion Urrutiaguer who is a Civil Engineer with Melbourne Water, responsible for storm water planning.