Council Meeting wrap - February 2023

Council Meeting wrap - February 2023

Published on 15 February 2023

The adoption of the Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy and a report regarding early childhood and child care options for Cohuna were highlights of Gannawarra Shire Council’s first meeting for 2023.

Held on 15 February at the Kerang Senior Citizens Centre, the key item of discussion was the adoption of the Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy – a document Councillors, Council and the community have spent more than two years developing.

The strategy outlines an innovative approach to the delivery of aquatics within the Gannawarra Shire. The Strategy focuses on modern and contemporary use rather than retaining a model of service that was established when the outdoor facilities were built over 60 years ago.

Following an extensive community engagement period held last year, key recommendations include:

Continuing to support the community operating the Koondrook, Leitchville and Quambatook swimming pools; Altering the proposed “lagoon style” pool in Cohuna to develop a seasonal lap pool that supports current and future users; and Developing a new warm water exercise facility in Kerang incorporated with the Sir John Gorton Library.

Councillors also noted the Exploring Care and Education in Cohuna Final Report. The report provides a detailed overview of identified and projected needs for childcare in Cohuna, Leitchville and surrounding districts, as well as for Kindergarten in Cohuna.

Developed after significant local consultation and advice from key local stakeholders, the report proposes the development of an Early Learning Centre at the Cohuna Consolidated School, which would enable Council to align with the State Government’s future reforms for early years and provide additional child care places.

Other outcomes of the meeting included:

Receiving the report outlining the 2022/2023 Quarterly Budget Report as at 31 December, 2022; Adopting the Community Amenity Local Law, with the final version incorporating changes to section 21: Keeping Animals following feedback received during the community engagement period; Receiving and noting the Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail Feasibility Study, which explores the development of a walking and cycling trail between Kerang and Lake Charm; Receipt of a petition from Kerang Amateur Swimming and Lifesaving Club and endorsing an extension of the 2022/2023 swimming pool season until Sunday, 19 March.

For more information, including a link to the video from this meeting and minutes, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/meetings