Sept2012_COUNCILLORs COLUMN

by Cr Bob Millar
WILLIAMS STREET BRIDGE –UPDATE
At the time of writing this column the new culverts have been installed on the northern side of the bridge and the road approaches have been completed.

It is expected that the northern side of the new structure will be open to traffic by early September with the installation of culvert sections on the southern side being undertaken around mid-September, and weather permitting, both lanes being re opening to traffic towards the end of the month.
STRONG ROAD, RUSH CREEK BRIDGE REPAIRS
This old timber bridge has been under a restricted load limit for the past several months and significant funds have been provided in the 2012/13 to undertake repairs.  New technology from Canada utilising a kevlar based process has enabled Council to reinforce the bridge beams and increase both the life span and load carrying capacity at significantly reduced cost.  Works are expected to take place prior to Christmas.
ANNUAL CLUB MEETINGS
Has your club met with an officer from the Sport and Recreation unit within the last 12 months?  If not, now is the time to schedule a club meeting with Council.  The club meeting is designed primarily to improve communication between the Sport and Recreation Unit and clubs within the region; and to discuss how Sport and Recreation can support your club.  The meeting will be scheduled for a time that is convenient for the club’s executive (perhaps prior to a monthly meeting?).  Should your club wish to proceed with a meeting or require further information contact the Sport and Recreation unit on 3283 0279 or email sportrecreation@moretonbay.qld.gov.au.
COUNCIL  BUSHFIRE  PREPARATION
Across the 2,037 sq kms of the Moreton Bay Region that Council owns or controls, there are extensive land holdings that require ongoing maintenance, be they parks or open space reserves.  This maintenance can also include hazard reduction burning of these properties, and council is currently undertaking burns at a number of locations across our region, in some cases with the assistance of our local volunteer Rural Fire Brigades.  It is also timely that residents in the more exposed areas of our region ensure that their preparation for the coming fire season is also in place.  Extensive information is available from Council’s website and the Rural Fire website: www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/
CLUB MANAGEMENT – FACILITY TRAINING FOR VOLUNTEERS
The purpose of facility training is to make sure all volunteers are aware of the physical structure and layout of the club facilities with which they are involved.  This training should familiarise volunteers with operational requirements such as opening and lock up procedures for individuals with keys/access rights, as well as fire and emergency evacuation procedures, workplace health and safety requirements and any other legislative requirements relating to the facility.  Your volunteers must know their way around the facility and be familiar with the policies and procedures relevant to facility operations in order to maintain safety and appropriate risk management practices.  For more information visit the MBRC Modern Club Management Toolbox (CD 3): 
www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/mcmtoolbox
or contact the Sport and Recreation Unit on 3283 0279.
SHAFT – Super Holiday Activities for Teenagers
Shaft is a program introduced by Moreton Bay Regional Council for students who reside in or attend high school in the Moreton Bay region.  The exciting range of activities are subsidised by Council, making them more affordable and accessible for students.  The next program runs from Mon 24th Sept to Fri 5th Oct 2012. Bookings – Round 1: Phone and online bookings opened 29 August to 7 September 2012.  Round 2:  Online only bookings open 12 to 19 September 2012.  For more information phone (07) 5433 2052 or email events@moretonbay.qld.gov.au.
DID YOU KNOW?
Moreton Bay Regional Council’s immunisation clinics provide vaccines, as recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council, FREE of charge to eligible clients.  No appointment is necessary.  For further information please contact council on 3205 0555.
For all your general council enquiries call 3205 0555 or email mbrc@moretonbay.qld.gov.au
If I can assist further, please contact me.
Councillor Bob Millar
Independent – Division 11
bob.millar@moretonbay.qld.gov.au
office 3480 6455
twitter: CrBobMillar