Media Releases

Council develops plan for sustainable water supply

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville is meeting the challenges of climate change and population growth with a comprehensive plan to ensure the city has a sustainable water supply.

Townsville Water has developed a draft drought management plan that draws together a range of strategies to conserve water resources all year round and maintain supply in periods of drought.

Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said the city was undertaking a massive upgrade of water infrastructure for the city’s growth, and was meeting State Government requirements to plan for the long-term sustainability of the city’s water resources.

“Townsville’s capability to pump water from the vast reserves in the Burdekin Dam when the Ross and Paluma Dams run dry means we’re much better off than other areas especially in the south-east. But the Burdekin is a costly option and a last resort and we have to get away from thinking that we have nothing to worry about and become much smarter about how we use our water resources,” Cr Tyrell said.

“Townsville is one of the fastest growing areas in Queensland and we will have to become more efficient in the use of water all year round, in the wet and dry seasons, if we are to meet the challenges of climate change, population growth and increasing demand into the future.

“Through the strategies and procedures outlined in the plan, our aim is to reduce water usage and water leakage or loss, and achieve a long term sustainability of existing resources.”

The plan includes on-going water conservation planning to achieve permanent water savings and a drought response plan for extreme events.

Key points include:

Water conservation program focusing on reduced leakage in the reticulation system, reduction in water theft and unauthorised water consumption, minimising water waste through efficient fittings and community education. Also includes continuation of full time odds evens watering days and ban on watering between 9am and 4pm;

Reuse of treated effluent on landscape irrigation, industry and agriculture;

Use of alternative supplies and substitutes for potable water including grey water use on home gardens, bore water where feasible;

Drought response plan for drought or water shortage events. Includes existing water restrictions strategy with the level of restrictions commensurate with dam levels. Also includes use of alternative water sources i.e grey water, bores, weirs.

The drought management plan has been developed under the city’s overarching Total Management Plan for the long–term provision of water infrastructure, service standards, financial management and sustainable supply.

Council waste trucks to go high-tech

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville City Council’s fleet of waste and recycling trucks are going high tech to provide more efficient collection services to the city’s 60,000 households and commercial customers.

Council’s 24 trucks will be equipped with on-board GPS tracking and mapping systems, cameras and enhanced communications capability that will assist with the planning of pick-up routes and save around 10% on labour and fuel costs.

The council today named Australian Software Professionals (ASP) as the winning tenderer for the contract to supply and install the new vehicle management system.

Committee chairman Cr Les Tyrell said ASP was a best practice provider of Australian and global waste services, and ticked all the council’s requirements.

“Council wanted a vehicle management system for our waste and recycling collection fleet that would offer real savings in terms of increased efficiency, and also improve our ability to meet service delivery needs,” Cr Tyrell said.

“We expect to conservatively reap about a 10% percent savings in fuel and labour, because we can optimise collection routes and generally streamline our collection services.”

Council expects to recoup the $250,000 outlay for the new system through cost efficiencies in the first year and save an estimated $170,000 a year on-going after paying for software licences and support.

The new system will allow, at the touch of a screen, drivers to access GPS data, cross reference information with rates database and upload static camera images via a web browser interface.

On a practical level, the field device will allow for GPS bin locations and real-time static camera images to be uploaded which will assist administrative staff with customer enquiries, as well as managing pick-up routes, and balance work loads.

ASP won the contract from seven other tenders and was the only proposal that had the capability of interfacing with council’s rates database to check the number and type of waste services.

The new system will be installed from December to February and is scheduled to be commissioned at the beginning of March.

Solar panels set to cut council s electricity bill

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

A project to harness the power of the sun at Townsville City Council’s Thuringowa Drive building is set to slash its electricity bill by approximately $50,000 per year without costing ratepayers a cent.

The council has applied for funding under the second round of the Federal Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP) to pay for a 20kw solar photovoltaic panel system and reflective white roof paint.

The council is eligible to receive $452,000 for projects that will support jobs and modernise infrastructure, and that can be completed no later than 31 December 2010.

Cr Veitch said the application is in line with a request by the Commonwealth to give particular emphasis to projects that promote green building technologies, design practices and operations.

“The Thuringowa Drive project would come on top of a similar project taking place at the council’s administration building in Walker Street. That work was funded under the first round of the federal program, and will result in savings of around $50,000 per year,” Cr Veitch said.

“This isn’t purely about doing the right thing in terms of the environment. It’s also in line with our concerted efforts to reduce operating expenses where we can.

“This project won’t cost council anything, and yet we’ll be able to reap significant rewards year in, year out by reducing our energy costs.

“Council has had to work hard to reduce our ongoing operational costs from a $56 million loss to around $15 million this year. While the $50,000 saving might seem like a small amount, it’s a step in the right direction.”

The solar system on the Thuringowa administration building and library will produce 100 kilowatt hours per day.

Cr Veitch said the solar reflective paint would also go a long way to reducing the demands on the cooling system.

“The roof in any building is a major source of radiant heat gain, and painting the roof with solar reflective white paint will achieve lower surface temperatures and reduce heat conduction into the building,” Cr Veitch said.

“This will in turn reduce the demands on the air conditioning system, and reduce the council’s carbon emissions by about 3650 tonnes per year.”

The project would complement a number of similar schemes around the city where solar panels have been installed to create power that is fed into the electrical grid.

The initiatives include the CitiLibraries Flinders Street and Thuringowa branches, the BHP Billiton Yabulu Eco-active Centre at Riverway, the C-Bar restaurant on the Strand, and the Jensen Landfill.

Asphalting program prepares city for the next big wet

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

An asphalting blitz is taking place ahead of the coming wet season to reduce the potential for water damage on roads and streets across the city.

Thousands of tonnes of asphalt are being laid as part of a record $83 million Building Better Local Roads Program, with resurfacing taking place on around 60 streets in recent months.

Townsville Mayor, Cr Les Tyrell, said crews are currently focussing on Macarthur Drive in Annandale where a 780 metre stretch is being overlayed with about 900 tonnes of asphalt.

“Torrential rain can take an enormous toll on our roads, and that’s why these preventative measures to water proof our road surfaces are so important,” Cr Tyrell said.

“Asphalting not only improves skid resistance, it also reduces the potential for potholes to appear because it lessens the chance of water infiltrating the road pavement.

“In a big wet season, such as earlier this year, there’ll always be damage to our roads. However, we’re determined to do what we can to minimise the impact.”

The 2009-10 budget allocated $7.8 million to preventive maintenance activities including asphalt overlays and reseals to improve road surfaces. Streets where asphalt resurfacing has taken place include Macarthur Dr, Campbell St, Sturges St, O’Reilly St, Water St, Halloran St, Landsborough St, Lillipilli St, Halifax St, and Marron Crescent.

Council has also completed insitu stabilisation in a number of streets including sections of Macarthur Drive, Sandstone Drive, Halifax Street, and Golf Links Drive.

The practice involves digging up the road surface and mixing it with cement and water before relaying it, to strengthen the road pavement.

Grading of rural roads has also been carried out ahead of the wet season, with crews set to revisit each area for more grading once the rain has passed.

Infrastructure Committee chair, Cr Brian Hewett asked motorists to take extra care in areas where roadworks are taking place.

“While we always endeavour to advise residents before roadworks begin in their area, we would ask people to be patient while the work is being carried out,” Cr Hewett said.

“In the long-term these projects result in safer roads – something I’m sure all motorists are seeking.”

David Campbell returns for Carols by Candlelight

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

David Campbell is set to make a return to the city as special guest entertainer for this year’s Townsville Bulletin Carols by Candlelight on December 13 at Strand Park.

The popular performer had signed up to headline last year’s Carols but was unable to take to the stage when the event was washed out by a sudden storm.

The magic night of carolling will also feature a strong line up of locals, headed up by Australian Idol contestant, Kim Cooper.

Townsville Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said he was thrilled to see David Campbell make a return.

“I know he was just as disappointed about the event being washed out, as were the many thousands of people in the crowd who had come to see him,” Cr Tyrell said.

“In fact as the rain poured down, he agreed then and there to come back for this year’s event.

“Touch wood, there won’t be any lightning storms that’ll stand in his way this time.”

David Campbell and Kim Cooper will be joined by other high-calibre performers including popular local entertainers Sandra Neal, Rachel Cairns, Paula Bennett, Andrew Higgins and Tracey Osmond.

A new group of local musicians – called Santa’s Big Band - will also hit the stage to replace the 1RAR band whose members will be going on overseas deployment.

“As always, I think this will be a fantastic night for families, and a great way to get into the spirit of Christmas,” Cr Tyrell said.

“The fact that we have such a long line up of local performers also shows the depth of talent within our own city, and it’s great to see that being celebrated as well.”

Three big screens will be erected on the night to ensure everyone enjoys the big night of entertainment.

Free songbooks will be available, while candles can be obtained by clipping a coupon from the Townsville Bulletin or making a gold coin donation to the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal on the night.

City to continue reign as events capital

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville will again show the way as a lifestyle leader with an exciting line-up of events and festivals at venues across the city over the next year.

The Townsville City Council has finalised a calendar of council staged events right through to the first half of 2011 that will entertain, celebrate and commemorate important occasions in the community.

Council’s Corporate Governance Committee ticked off on the calendar following a review that looked at scheduling, content, location and viability of events.

Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said the review would ensure the council delivered a well balanced events program that was fresh and dynamic.

“Townsville has earned a reputation as an events capital and the key to our success is constantly looking at new opportunities and how we can improve our existing calendar,” Cr Tyrell said.

“By carrying out regular reviews we can run events better and more cost effectively and take on new ideas that maximise community involvement.

“The review process also allows us to develop a broader events strategy that includes council staged events as well as the many community run events and festivals the council supports and sponsors.”

Recommendations of the review include incorporating the Smart Lifestyle and Sustainability Expo with the Eco Fiesta in Queens Gardens in June to form a major environmental show piece, consider moving Pioneers’ Party to October to avoid a clash with Seniors’ Picnic, and diverting resources from the Townsville 400 Festival Youth Concert into better attended activities such as Youth Week and the Rock Awards.

The report also recommends investigating possible relocation of Heritage Day from West End Park to Jezzine Barracks once the redevelopment is completed and developing Carols By Candlelight as a signature event in the city.

Calendar for Council run events:

January 26 - Australia Day and Welcoming Babies (Riverway)

March 19 – National Youth Week (Reid Park)

March 21 – Toad Day Out (Anderson Park)

April – National Youth Week; Anzac Day services

May – Heritage Day (West End Park)

June – Eco Fiesta/Smart Lifestyle and Sustainability Expo and Welcoming Babies (Queens Gardens)

July 9-18 – Townsville 400 Festival (Reid Park and Riverway)

August 18 - Seniors’ Picnic In The Park

August 22 – Seniors Music Day on Magnetic Island

September 11 – Pioneer’s Party

October 14 – Welcoming Babies Ceremony Three

November 11 – Remembrance Day Anzac Park Cenotaph and Thuringowa Cenotaph

December – Carols By Candlelight (Strand Park)

December 31 – New Year’s Eve Celebrations, Riverway, Strand, Magnetic Island

All year: Strand Presents, Cotters Markets, Strand Night Markets.

City mounts case to reverse major fall in Federal grants

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville City Council is calling for a fairer slice of funding through the Federal Government’s Financial Assistance Grants to local government.

The council plans to take the Queensland Grants Commission to task over funding distribution formulas after Townsville’s grant level slipped from third to 17th in the State.

Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said the methodology used to calculate the level of grants heavily favoured smaller councils.

“Townsville’s real terms funding has been in decline over many years and following amalgamation we will be worse off,” Cr Tyrell said.

“The grants commission has recommended Townsville along with three other amalgamated councils stay at 2007-08 levels while some other amalgamated councils will receive an increase of 3.1%.

“Since the early to mid 1990s larger urban councils like Townsville, which account for about 80% of the State’s population, have seen a real terms fall in their share of funding from just under half to around a third.

“The decline in our share of the grants pool is a major concern at a time when the State Government has announced plans to drastically reduce grants to councils.

“We will be putting forward a strong submission calling for a fairer share of the Federal grants pie to the Queensland Grants Commission’s current review into the distribution methodology which we believe is dudding the city.”

Financial Assistance Grants comprise two components - the general purpose grant and the identified road grant - and are aimed at topping up council revenue to meet service and infrastructure obligations.

The Queensland Grants Commission is reviewing the methodology for determining the general purpose grant.

In 2001/02 Townsville and Thuringowa was third in the State with a combined $3.62 million in general purpose grants behind Brisbane on $13.27 million, and the Gold Coast on $6.09 million. Logan was fourth with $2.52 million.

Figures for 2009-10 show Brisbane on top in the State with $19.3 million, Western Downs (Dalby) second with $11.64 million, Gold Coast on $9.25 million, Toowoomba fourth on the list on $9.48 million and Townsville coming in at 17th with $4.48 million.

The Corporate Governance Committee today backed a recommendation for the council to prepare a submission to the grants commission review.

Green invasion heads to Riverway for playground opening

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Riverway will be overrun with turtles this weekend as Townsville City Council celebrates the completion of an all-abilities playground with a Turtles Picnic.

Riverway-goers will enjoy free fun and games from 10am to 12pm tomorrow (Saturday), including face painting, balloon wrangling, a treasure hunt and show bags for the first children.

Townsville’s all abilities playground is one of 16 being created across Queensland as part of the Queensland Government’s All Abilities Playground Project – enabling participation in play. The playgrounds have been specifically designed for children of all ages and abilities.

Townsville City Council Deputy Mayor Cr David Crisafulli will open the facility, alongside Disability Services Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk.

“This is the first playground in Townsville to be designed from the ground up for kids of all abilities,” Cr Crisafulli said.

“While other local playgrounds have some equipment that is suitable for children with disabilities, this playground allows all children to embrace imaginative play.”

The playground includes a grand tree house, large, tiered sand pit, musical sound garden, story time area, snail hopscotch, chalk boards, a set of harnessed toddler and adult-sized swings, misting poles and an obstacle course.

Over 250 local residents including local health groups, disability support group the Umbrella Network, and children with and without a disability had a say in the play space’s planning and design.

Built by McNab, the project was funded by a $204,050 grant from the state’s Department of Communities through Disability Services, almost $700,000 from Townsville City Council and $29,000 support from Devine Limited and Leighton Properties.

Ms Palaszczuk said the project encouraged involvement from children and families at every stage of design, in an effort to break down barriers to play.

“The Bligh Government is pleased to partner with Townsville City Council in this significant project,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“All abilities playgrounds are about enabling participation in play for all children, regardless of their age or ability.

“They give children equal opportunity to learn and grow through play, while providing a free community space where families can relax and enjoy time together.”

Council serves up winner for city`s tennis

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville City Council is supporting a major revival of tennis in the city.

Lifestyle and Community Development Committee members have given their backing to a request from Tennis Townsville for a council contribution of $250,000 over two years towards a $3 million redevelopment of the North Ward courts.

The proposal will transform the North Ward complex into a regional headquarters for the sport with high quality training facilities, new clubhouse, commercial and function area, and international standard courts.

Approval for the council support is conditional upon Tennis Townsville securing funding for the project through an application to the Federal Government’s Jobs Fund.

Committee chair Cr Jenny Lane said the project would create jobs and establish the city as a thriving regional hub for tennis.

“Tennis Townsville has put together an excellent proposal that will create jobs and boost the development of tennis in the city and the region,” Cr Lane said.

“The international quality courts and high quality training facilities will greatly increase opportunities for the city to host big tennis events, and help nurture future young champions from our local area.

“The proposal is also ideal for the growing number of people living in unit developments in and around North Ward and the city.”

The council support also includes a letter of support for Tennis Townsville’s federal funding application which is seeking $2 million for the project.

Tennis Townsville plans to raise the balance of the project funding from accumulated funds, other grant programs and the local community including business sponsorship and donations, in-kind contributions from trade suppliers, and member donations and debentures.

The committee recommendation to support the Tennis Townsville request will go to the full meeting of council for approval on November 24.

Quick response to confirmed dengue case

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville City Council has stepped up warnings to residents to clean up potential dengue mosquito breeding sites in their backyards after confirmation of a locally acquired case of the fever in Garbutt.

Council health officers joined Queensland Health inspectors today in a sweep of houses within a 250m radius of the dengue patient’s residence.

Environment Committee chairman Cr Vern Veitch said a team of eight council officers was working cooperatively with Queensland Health in a door-to-door inspection of properties but needed the full assistance of residents to eradicate breeding sites.

Cr Veitch said Queensland Health was carrying out inspections and treatments in the immediate area of the dengue patient’s address and council was covering homes in a broader arc, locating and eliminating potential breeding sites.

“The council’s approach is to hit it hard from day one and that has helped us avoid the sort of outbreaks they’ve experienced in Cairns,” Cr Veitch said.

“The dengue carrying mosquito – Aedes aegypti – only breeds around homes and in urban areas, not in salt marsh areas. It is absolutely vital that residents and businesses get behind the effort and empty any containers or materials that are likely breeding sites.

“The dengue mosquito has a very limited flight range, so it is in the interests of all residents to remove all containers in or around their houses that hold, or could hold water.

“We have to have the cooperation of residents throughout the city in eliminating breeding sites if we are to avoid another outbreak.

“It is especially important following the overnight rain in the city which would have filled containers.”

People can obtain more information on dengue fever and action they can take to protect against the disease on the Council’s website.

Flood mitigation works prepare for coming wet season

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Townsville City Council has stepped up flood mitigation works and maintenance of the city’s drainage system in preparation for the next big wet.

Council crews have begun working on a $550,000 project to repair a major drain in Kirwan, while the Infrastructure Committee today approved a $1.98 million tender to CEC Constructions to build a new flood mitigation pump station in Hermit Park.

Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said the projects would help reduce flood damage costs for the community.

“We’ll never be able to provide a panacea for all flooding in the city. However, these type of projects certainly offer the community greater protection during heavy rainfall events,” Cr Tyrell.

“It’s this kind of work that will remain a major focus for the council year in, year out.”

The project to renew walls in the Martello Drive drain in Kirwan, and structural defects in the adjoining Redwood Avenue lane way, will improve the efficiency of the drainage system in the area.

Flood levels in Hermit Park are also expected to be lowered by the $2.3 million Campbell Street pump station which will have a significantly bigger capacity than the existing facility.

Cr Tyrell said the design of the new pump station had been completed, with off site works to start immediately to ensure the project is complete by 2010.

“This pump station will be able to pump 2400 litres per second, which is three times greater than the pump rate of the existing structure,” Cr Tyrell said.

“No amount of work will ever be able to stop flooding from an extreme event, such as the 1998 Night of Noah. However, this project will certainly improve the overall flood immunity for nearby residents.”

The low profile pump station will direct floodwater into the adjacent Ross River, and will be located at the western end of the Queens Road sporting fields.

The two projects come on top of other preparations including an extensive road works program designed to strengthen the surface of streets, and investigations to pinpoint illegal stormwater connections to the city’s sewerage network.

In addition, work is being carried out along the Bohle Road to reprofile a drainage easement to prevent erosion along neighbouring properties.

Infrastructure Committee chair, Cr Brian Hewett, said a big clean up of the city’s stormwater drains is also underway.

“This work will continue right up until the start of the wet season to ensure local flooding is minimised wherever possible,” Cr Hewett said.

“At the moment we have maintenance crews working around the city on a daily basis to inspect our drains, culverts, inlet pits, and grates so they can clear up any debris.”

Inspections will also be carried out on tide gates at Woolcock Street and Evans Street and the Barryman Street, Castletown and Clayton Street stormwater pump stations to ensure their smooth operation.

Final approval for the Campbell Street Pump Station tender will be considered by Full Council at its next meeting later this month.

Residents can now text the council on 048 TELL TCC

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Reporting a pot-hole or inquiring about water restrictions is now as easy as sending a text message.

From today, residents can send text messages to Townsville City Council via the number 048 TELL TCC.

The council is one of the first in Australia to introduce a service that allows people to contact them via SMS text.

Townsville Mayor Cr Les Tyrell said the council was responding to the changing needs of the community.

“Residents want to be able to contact us in their own time, in a way that’s instant and convenient to them,” he said.

“Whether it’s a pot-hole, lights out in a local park or a tree that’s come down, we want to know.

“Or if you’ve attended a council event and you think we’re doing a good job, send us a text.

“We’re happy to receive all feedback – negative or positive – that will help us to continue to improve our services.

“One of our staff will receive the text and we will respond to the issue within one working day.”

An overview of all the text comments will be provided on the council’s website on a weekly basis.

Charges for sending the text will be the same as any normal text, as set by the sender’s provider, and the mobile number will only be used for the purposes of responding or actioning the request.

Cr Tyrell said residents were still welcome to contact council via existing means, such as phoning, emailing or visiting the Customer Service Centres.

“Urgent matters should still be phoned through on 4727 9000, especially in an emergency situation or disaster,” he said.

Council scholarship recognises outstanding musician

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

A young violinist is this year’s winner of the Theodore Kuchar Scholarship for excellence in orchestral music.

Fiona Hu, a Year 10 student from Townsville Grammar School, will receive the $4000 scholarship from Cr Tony Parsons today.

The orchestral scholarship honours the founding artistic director of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, Theodore Kuchar, and aims to increase the recipient’s skills and creative development at an advanced level.

Cr Parsons said Townsville City Council was proud to be the longest-standing supporter of the Australia Festival of Chamber Music.

“Theodore Kuchar had an incredible vision for a chamber music festival in Australia and chose Townsville as the ideal location. The council worked with Theodore in the early days and that support has continued over the past 19 years,” Cr Parson said.

“As a way of acknowledging his significant contribution to the cultural life of Townsville and his commitment to music education, we thought it fitting that a scholarship be created in his name to support emerging orchestral musicians.

“Over the past two years, our recipients have served us well. Last year’s winner, seventh-grade cellist Aleisha Strom has received weekly tuition, taken part in the Sydney International Music Festival, and attended a rehearsal of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

“Meanwhile, the previous winner, Margot Doherty, has taken part in a master class, performed at the Australian Vocal and Concerto Competition and led the symphony orchestra at the Sunwater and Stanwell Winter Music School. She received an A+ on her eighth-grade music exam.

“Our latest recipient, Fiona Hu, is an outstanding musician. She displays strong musicianship and talent, and has confidence and maturity beyond her years. Her passion for music and her cultural heritage is obvious when she performs. We look forward to observing her progress with the Theordore Kuchar Scholarship.”

Stinger nets installed on Townsville beaches this week

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:11:00 +1000

Stinger nets are being installed on Townsville beaches this week, marking the start of the stinger season.

Contractor Uninet is setting up the net at Balgal Beach this morning, the two enclosures on the Strand this afternoon and nets at Picnic Bay and Horseshoe Bay on Magnetic Island tomorrow.

Lifestyle and Community Development Committee chair Cr Jenny Lane said the installation of nets was a timely reminder for both locals and visitors to swim within the swimming enclosures during the summer.

“The council funds the installation of the nets every summer so people can enjoy a trip to the beach and a swim in the sea with a high degree of protection from stingers,” Cr Lane said.

“People should swim within the stinger nets at all times and take directions from life savers who are on regular patrol.”

Swimmers also have the choice of the city’s public pools at Tobruk, Long Tan, and Northern Beaches Leisure Centre as well as the Rockpool and the water playground on the Strand, and Riverway.

Sign up for disaster messaging service at Cyclone Sunday

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:10:00 +1000

Townsville residents will be able to sign up for the City Council's new disaster messaging service at this weekend's Cyclone Sunday event.

The council is partnering ABC North Queensland and Emergency Management Queensland in hosting the emergency expo. Everything you'll need to prepare for the approaching cyclone season will be in one place: Townsville's Strand Park from 9am to midday this Sunday.

The Local Disaster Management Group will be on hand to talk about its role during emergencies and residents will be able to sign up for the new Early Warning Network – the first in Australia.

So far, 6200 residents have signed up for the service, which sends emergency alerts to members when a disaster is imminent.

Health and Community Safety Committee chairman Cr Dale Last encouraged people to get along on Sunday and sign up for the service, especially residents of the Northern Beaches and South Townsville, whose homes are often at risk of tidal inundation.

"We're very pleased with the subscription rate and coverage across Townsville but we could always do with more," Cr Last said. "Residents will be contacted only when their suburb or street is directly at risk, and it doesn't have to be via email or mobile, it can be a recorded message to a landline phone. Disasters can unfold very quickly, so this is one of our most valuable response tools.

"Given the record flooding that occurred here early this year and that a cyclone's predicted for January, I'd encourage everyone to get ready now, before we all get busy with Christmas."

Also taking part in Sunday's event:

Broadcast Australia

Centrelink

Department of Communities

Ergon Energy

Red Cross

Main Roads Department

State Emergency Service

James Cook University Cyclone Testing Station

Bureau of Meteorology

Department of Primary Industries

Queensland Police

Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, including Blazer the QFRS safety bear

Rural Fire Service

ABC North Queensland will broadcast live from 10am to midday and there'll also be food stalls, a sausage sizzle from the Picnic Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, and children's entertainment.

Councils to campaign for recycling subsidies

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:10:00 +1000

Townsville is leading a campaign to secure State Government subsidies to assist northern communities struggling with the rising costs of kerbside recycling services.

The Townsville City Council will take a motion to next month’s North Queensland Local Government Association seeking support from other councils in the region for the call for subsidies.

Northern councils are faced with increases in recycling costs as a result of a crash in prices for recycled commodities and higher charges to process and transport products to the nearest markets in Brisbane.

Environment and Sustainability Committee chairman Cr Vern Veitch said

the Whitsunday Regional Council had already decided to discontinue its kerbside recycling service and instead fund other environmental projects.

“The cost of recycling in a region located so far away from the nearest markets is placing increasing financial pressure on councils in the north,” Cr Veitch said.

“Councils are being asked to pay more to recycling contractors to process materials as a result of falling returns and the burden of transportation costs.

“All councils are subject to the commodities crash but southern councils don’t have the same impost of transportation costs as we do in the north. In Townsville about 90% of the fee we pay to the recycling contractor goes on transporting material to Brisbane.

“There should be a more equitable arrangement that equalises transport costs for disadvantaged councils, and that can be achieved by a State Government subsidy.

“This would reduce the burden on ratepayers who ultimately pay the cost of the service. The reality is that without Government assistance we will have to pay more for the service or rethink how we recycle.”

A full meeting of council today approved a motion to go to the NQROC conference requesting the Local Government Association of Queensland lobby the State Government to subside the transport cost of kerbside recycled commodities.

Townsville’s kerbside recycling service currently costs ratepayers around $2.75 million a year which includes the use of Council resources to collect bins, and the cost of contractor Visy to process the material.

Each month Visy processes 1,100 tonnes of material of which around 11 per cent is general waste and the rest a mix of paper, plastics, aluminium, steel and glass.

The Townsville City Council will soon be tendering for the sorting and processing contract for the city’s recycling.