Shire news

Social media marketing workshop, Garry Rewell elected, and Council planning for community health and wellbeing

Successful businesses of the future will mobilise social media to reach old customers, gain new ones and build or maintain credibility and reputation. This workshop  is funded by Design Victoria and will help local business, particularly those with a design focus, to build ‘brand awareness’ through these tools.

The workshop is being hosted by Mount Alexander Shire Council in partnership with Design Victoria. For more details visit www.designvic.com and to book your place at the workshop email events@designvic.com and for further information, please contact Sally Morris, Economic Development Officer Mount Alexander Shire Council, phone 5471 1805.

Rewell elected

Garry Rewell has been elected Councillor of the Castlemaine Ward in the Mount Alexander Shire Council, following the recent resignation of Robin Taylor.

The election result follows a countback procedure undertaken by the Victorian Electoral Commission on Thursday, 27 May to fill the extraordinary vacancy. Gary Rewell has served as a Councillor for three terms in the Mount Alexander Shire Council since 1997, and prior to amalgamation served on the Maldon Shire Council.  He brings a breadth of experience to the role, having worked for KR Castlemaine over many years and lived here for most of his life.

“On behalf of all Councillors, I congratulate Garry on his recent election and look forward to working with him as a fellow Councillor,” said Mayor, Cr Philip Schier.

“Garry’s experience as a Councillor will see him take to the role quickly and his involvement in many local community groups will add to the range of perspectives around the table.”

Garry Rewell will take the declaration of office at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 8 June 2010.

Council planning for community health and wellbeing

Mount Alexander Shire Council has developed a draft Health and Wellbeing Plan that sets out ways to protect, improve and promote the health and wellbeing of the Shire’s diverse communities over the next four years.

On 25 May, Council endorsed that the draft Plan be released for public comment. The period for public submissions has now started and will continue until 25 June.

The draft Mount Alexander Shire Health and Wellbeing Plan 2010-2013 provides a framework in which Council can identify and respond to issues affecting community health and wellbeing in the Shire in partnership with other government departments, health and welfare services and communities of interest.

Developed through a process of research and consultation with health and community services, agencies and interest groups, the draft Plan identifies four priority areas in which Council can influence health and wellbeing.  These are safe and supportive built and natural environments, resilient local economies, strong, connected and engaged communities, and healthy and active lifestyles for all.

“The draft Health and Wellbeing Plan 2010 – 2013 sets out to guide Council in areas that can positively influence the health and welfare of our community members.  Actions range from encouraging people to take up walking and cycling to advocating for more affordable housing,” said Cr Schier.

“I encourage people to provide feedback on the draft Plan to help inform Council’s work in this area over the next four years.”

A community consultation session will be held on 17 June 2010, 12pm – 2pm at the Ray Bradfield Room beside Victory Park, Castlemaine.  To view the draft Mount Alexander Shire Health and Wellbeing Plan 2010-2013 visit the Your Input section of Council’s website at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au

For further information, please contact Glenn Menner, Manager Community Development, Mount Alexander Shire Council, phone 5471 1818.