CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

COUNCIL NEWS #1

The Cassowary Coast Christmas Appeal has begun accepting donations for this year’s festive season fundraiser.Organisers and charities hope to raise a record amount of more than $10,000 this year to help disadvantaged and less-fortunate members of the community at Christmas.

Even small contributions could make a meaningful difference to help, says the Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, John Kremastos.

The Christmas fundraiser is a joint effort by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, partnering with a group of local charities to distribute assistance to genuinely-disadvantaged residents.

“Although many people look forward to Christmas, some experience genuine hardship at this time of year, and this particular appeal is to support them,” Cr Kremastos said.

“Even a small donation from everyone on the Cassowary Coast who could afford it would make a massive difference to help those who are struggling.”

Cr Kremastos said that while there was no upper limit on donations, just two dollars would

buy you a Christmas star, on which you could write your name. These stars would then become part of the Christmas tree displays at the Council’s Tully or Innisfail offices.

Donations of more than $50 would buy a gift-wrapped box to be placed at the base of the tree, symbolising hampers and other food and supplies that would be distributed.

“We’re a generous community from all walks of life, and we know what it’s like to experience hardships and natural disasters, and the community always rallies around that,” Cr Kremastos said.

“Our Christmas Appeal is another example of people helping out their neighbours and friends, or even people they might not even know. I would ask as many people as possible to help.”

Donations can be made until COB on Friday, 21/12, at the Council’s offices in Innisfail and Tully, and in Cardwell at the Council Library.

Participating charities to help distribute food, hampers and supplies to the needy this year include the Salvation Army Innisfail; Harvest Church Innisfail; Cassowary Coast Uniting Church; Community Support Centre Innisfail; Tully Support Centre; Wet Tropics Housing and Innisfail Youth & Family Care.

CASSOWARY COAST DIGS DEEP TO HELP

OTHERS AT CHRISTMAS

COMMUNITY IN THIS

ISSUECHRISTMAS APPEAL Page 1

READY FOR STORM SEASON Page 2

READY TO SERVE Page 3

CLEAN UP FOR STORM SEASON Page 3

NEW BILLABONG TO TEACH KIDS CONSERVATION Page 4

YEAR IN REVIEW Page 5-8

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD NOMINATIONS Page 9

PAT PENSINI’S TOP GARDENING TIPS Page 10-11

CARDWELL WATER IMPROVEMENT PLANT BEST-IN-CLASS Page 11

COUNCIL CHRISTMAS CLOSURE DETAILS Page 12

LIBRARY HOLIDAY PROGRAMS Page 12

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The Mayor and representatives from the Cassowary Coast Community Christmas Appeal recipient organisations.

Emergency crews in the Cassowary Coast are getting ready for the worst that this year’s tropical wet season could possibly bring. For several months now a range of emergency services and first-responders have been methodically reviewing plans and working through different crisis scenarios as part of the annual lead up to the summer storm season.

If a wild weather event were to happen on the Cassowary Coast, the Local Disaster Management Group and these emergency leaders would need respond rapidly, to protect human life and property during and after a storm, flood or cyclone.

Disaster management had particular importance in this part of the tropical far north, according to the Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, John Kremastos.

With a population base spread across four main centres, the Council had a large area to manage in the event of a major storm.

Meals on Wheels have been on the front lines during wild weather disasters on the Cassowary CoastHelp during a possible natural disaster on the Cassowary Coast region could come from an unexpected source – Meals on Wheels.The long-established food service charity is usually associated with delivery of daily meals to pensioners and the disabled in areas across Australia. On the Cassowary Coast region however, the charity was part of the area’s response capability during natural disasters, according to local Councillor Mark Nolan.“When extreme weather disasters strike, as they do from time to time in the tropical north, there would be a sudden influx of emergency services personnel

Residents of the Cassowary Coast region are being encouraged to clean up their yards of any loose materials that could become airborne in the event of a cyclone or heavy winds.

With storm season fast approaching, a spokesman for the Cassowary Coast Regional Council said that loose timber, sheet metal and other materials could potentially be hazardous or deadly if they went flying in heavy winds.

“Getting rid of any rubbish in your yard and securing loose materials makes good sense ahead of storm season,” Andrew Portelli, the Innisfail-based Local Disaster Coordinator, said.

“Any loose item can become airborne and cause significant damage or serious injury. Sheets of tin or galvanised iron have sharp edges that can easily take a life.

“There are lots of materials that people

“Our region is the wettest area of Australia during wet season, and at times in the past has been impacted by cyclones where other regional areas like Cairns have narrowly-escaped direct hits,” Cr Kremastos said.

“Wild weather during wet season is part and parcel of the local climate. Most of the time a looming storm passes by without doing serious damage, but we don’t take the risks lightly, and we prepare for them all year long.”

As well as being the Mayor of the region, Cr Kremastos also oversees the Disaster Management Centre at Innisfail, which would become the response hub for the whole Cassowary Coast in the event of a major weather emergency.

Cr Kremastos said that disaster planning staff on the Council would liaise and work with critical first responders if such an ‘event’ were to occur.

The Local Disaster Management Group included police, fire and ambulance; the SES; potentially the Australian Army; and health and other government services.

Cr Kremastos said that recently the group held an exercise based on a hypothetical flood in the greater Innisfail area.

“As this year’s flooding in Townsville showed, even a once-in-500-year event could occur when you least expected it,” he said.

“Thankfully we haven’t suffered a direct hit in some years, but the risk is always there.

“You can’t stop bad weather from happening in the tropical far north, but you can make your preparations to deal with it.”

“It doesn’t matter what the nature of the event is – a flood a cyclone or fire, the basics are still the same, all the agencies need to be ready. As much as we can be prepared, we are.”

STORM SEASON

READY FOR THE STORM

READY TO SERVE

Innisfail’s Acting Senior Sergeant, Murray Jensen, with Mayor John Kremastos, and Local Disaster Coordinator, Andrew Portelli at the Disaster Management Centre.

Innisfail Meals on Wheels volunteers, working hard at the Disaster Management Centre in Innisfail.

afterwards to help,” Cr Nolan, of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, said.“To support those personnel, they need to be fed. During events like Cyclone Yasi, Meals on Wheels volunteers effectively became part of our response team. “In Innisfail they are actually based at our Disaster Management Centre. After an extreme ‘event’ they would make it possible for other first-responders to do what they do. They are invaluable.”Cr Nolan said that when Cyclone Yasi devastated the region in 2011, Innisfail volunteers for the meal service swung into action to feed teams of more than 1500 emergency personnel who rushed to the area in the aftermath.Cr Nolan said he accepted the offer to become President of the Innisfail branch of Meals on Wheels when he learned about the wide-ranging impacts of the service in regional areas.

“On the Cassowary Coast they’re a core part of our potential response after cyclones - but they are invaluable all-year-round in helping our elderly and vulnerable residents feel socially-connected. “It’s not just about providing a meal, many of our volunteers stop for a chat, or provide a kind word. “People want to feel connected to other people, and our volunteers help make that possible.”Cr Nolan said that State & Federal governments were currently encouraging families to care for their elderly family members at home, in order to help keep them out of aged care facilities until necessary.On the Cassowary Coast, Meals on Wheels played an integral role in helping to feed the elderly who sought to maintain their independence and ability to see out their years in their own home.

leave around their yards at home without realising they can be dangerous if they become airborne.”

Mr Portelli said that residents of the Cassowary Coast could take loose materials from their gardens and yards to their local Council tip for free disposal.

“We don’t charge to drop off loose materials that could be dangerous in a storm because we want people to take advantage of this as a free service,” he said.

“Cleaning up your yard before storm season also helps prevent damage to not only your own property but your neighbour’s too, as flying debris during a storm can cause widespread damage.”

For locations and open hours of your nearest Council refuse station, call 1300 763 903 or check Council’s website www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/waste-transfer-stations.

CLEAN UP YOUR YARD FOR STORM SEASON

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ENVIRONMENT

NEW BILLABONG TOTEACH KIDS CONSERVATION

ON CASSOWARY COAST

Flying Fish Point State School Principal, Karen Spannagle, with students Aaron and Demi, and Councillor Jeff Baines - holding freshwater fish that will populate the completed billabong on the corner of the school property.

“The billabong will be used to raise awareness of how water reaches the sea, and what happens to it along the way,” Cr Baines said.

“Kids will be learning about growing fish, learning about plants that clean the water, and the relationship between the land and the water.”

The Flying Fish Point State School Billabong project is funded by a partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, with support from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Cassowary Coast LMAC (Local Marine Advisory Committee), MaMu (traditional owners) and LandCare.

A new billabong for schoolkids on the Cassowary Coast will be created from an old waste water outlet, and used as a teaching tool.What was formerly just a drainage point for the Flying Fish Point State School would instead become an innovative way to teach kids about water conservation and the environment, says a local Councillor helping to develop the project.

Cr Jeff Baines, from the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, said that the new landscaped environment would give

young kids an invaluable chance to gain early real-world lessons in water and land conservation.

“The water that floods to the stormwater outlet comes from the national park behind the school, and then currently then just basically runs into the drainage pit and is washed away,” he said.

“What a waste – literally. We thought ‘hey, there’s a chance here to stop losing some of that water and give kids a great learning opportunity too‘.”

An area of land at the school will be reshaped to create a freshwater environment for fish, insects, birds and vegetation.

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LOOKING FOR LIGHTS

ON THE CASSOWARY

COAST?

Get into the Christmas Spirit by taking your loved ones on an adventure to see the many homes in our region that are decorated with lights!Submit your address: surveymonkey.com/r/5TZK36Q View Christmas Lights Map: bit.ly/cass-coast-christmas

• The value of development and building approvals has increased from $46M in 2016 to $57M in 2018-2019. • A $40,000 Façade Improvement Incentive is giving older buildings a facelift and local suppliers a boost.• A Development Attraction Incentive provides a 12-month rate reduction to entice new businesses to the region.• Further Incentives to stimulate building and economic growth include a reduction in infrastructure charges and development application fees.• Innisfail and Mission Beach Master Plans have both been delivered.

DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES DELIVERED STRONG GROWTH

• $510,000 invested in external tourism organisations and memberships to promote the Cassowary Coast Region and support the local tourism industry. • 39,681 enquiries made at Council’s Visitor Information Centres.• $150,000 invested to upgrade Council caravan parks at Etty Bay and Tully.• The Tropical Coast Tourism Strategy was developed with input from tourism operators to drive growth in tourist numbers to the region in the months and years ahead.

TOURISM INVESTMENT IS PIVOTAL TO THE REGION’S ECONOMIC RE-ACTIVATION

OBJECTIVETo work in partnership with the community to ensure that facilities and amenities meet the needs of local people

and that Council delivers a consistent and high level of service. We will measure ourselves to ensure ourperformance keeps pace with evolving community expectations.

1. GROWTH & ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY

2018-19 YEAR IN REVIEW

CONTINUED INVESTMENT IN OUR PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND

OUR ENVIRONMENT

• $263,000 for feral pig management was awarded to local suppliers, to assist the banana industry stop the spread of Panama Race TR4.• $100,000 awarded to River Improvement Trust ($300,000 funding since 2016).• Program Coordinator appointed to support the Panama TR4 feral pig program for 3 years.• Johnstone River vegetation management carried out. Funded under the Works for Queensland program.• Natural Area and Works Teams supported QFES and Rural Fire with the control of bush fires in Cardwell and Nyleta areas.• Dunk Island spit maintenance undertaken, including sand re-nourishment and jetty repair works.• Monsoon Event Declaration and Response. With support from the Queensland Government, Council undertook recovery procedures and focussed on gravel road repairs.

EVENTS ADDED VALUE TO THE ECONOMY AND VIBRANCY TO

OUR LIFESTYLE

• $419,000 for Tully World Rafting Championships (includes Queensland Government funding of $112,000)• $13,800 in-kind investment for Tropical Art Deco Weekend - plus $21,700 Building Better Regions funding• $3,000 for Cardwell UFO Festival• $3,000 for Feast of the Senses Festival• $3,000 for Cardwell Seafest• $3,000 for Mission Beach Cassowary Festival• $6,600 Kurrimine Beach Fishing Club Inc(Creek to Coast television show)• $7,500 Variety, QLD

The past 12 months have been a busy year of achievement for the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, with many services and facilities in the region receiving a boost. Benefits have been spread broadly across a range of business and social services, with residents seeing improvements in everything from development and business incentives through to tourism benefits and increased library services. The goal is to improve the quality of services for residents; to boost community pride in the region, and to attract new tourism and business ventures to further stimulate economic growth and social benefits. Council achieves Better Together through the four strategic pillars: Responsible Governance, Growth and Economic Sustainability, Community First and Sustainable Infrastructure.Please note that the data presented is representative of the 2018-19 financial year.

Before and after images of the White Horse Hotel in Innisfail, after being cleaned and painted as part of the

Façade Improvement Incentive. 5

OBJECTIVETo work in partnership with the community to ensure that facilities and amenities meet the needs of local

people and that Council delivers a consistent and high level of service. We will measure ourselves to ensureour performance keeps pace with evolving community expectations.

2. COMMUNITY FIRST

• Over 30,000 customer requests were made to Council.• More than 200 community groups received ongoing support from Council. • Council libraries opening hours were extended and I.T. services expanded with more computers available and self-service loan stations introduced. • 850 library sessions were delivered with a 74% increase in programs since 2015.• Historical images are being digitised, and library staff are being trained to help ensure valuable historical images of the region and its people are preserved.• Council’s libraries were national finalists in the Local Government Customer Service Team of the Year.• Customer Service Trainee Maddie England was a finalist in the 2019 Tropical North Queensland Training Awards.• Customer Service trainees have won the Skill360 Trainee of the Year for the past 3 years.• Dog registration and systematic inspection program completed. Over 5000 properties identifying 670 unregistered dogs.• Two additional animal management local laws officers have been employed to enable 24-hour emergency customer response.• Council staff in selected field operations now have iPads for improved responsiveness to customers.

IMPROVED SERVICES DELIVEREDVALUED CUSTOMER

EXPERIENCES

• Council manages 86 public housing and pensioner dwellings providing essential housing to members of the community.• Council aided over 300 community groups and has delivered approximately $320,000 in additional non-specific community funding support since 2016.• More than $600,000 from Commonwealth funding is injected annually into the region’s economy through 18 Family Day Care operators serving 115 local families.• There are 15,691 rateable properties in the region. 84% of residents were offered rate discounts equating to $5.1M with $1.2M rebate delivered for pensioners.• More than $197,526 rate rebates for not-for-profit organisations. Council supports cultural development and activities for our community.• $28,481 was delivered through the Regional Arts Development Fund#.• $24,218 was distributed to the community through Community Assistance^.• $5,000 in-kind support given to Cardwell, Innisfail, Mission Beach and Tully for Christmas events.

#Regional Arts Development Fund – A long-standing partnership between the Council and the Queensland Government to develop the skills and capabilities of emergent and established artists within the region.^Community Assistance Scheme Grants – These grants were provided for individual excellence in the community, including sporting, academic and cultural achievement.

COUNCIL SUPPORTS INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITY

GROUPS

COUNCIL RECOGNISES THE IMPORTANCE OF INVESTING IN

THE REGION’S YOUTH

• Council is training nine apprentices and eight ‘Skilling Queenslanders for Work’ MAMU trainees and their supervisor.• Council supported the Innisfail School Connect program that provides work experience and mentoring opportunities for students.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work trainees, working at the MAMU bushtucker gardens in Innisfail.

• 3,810 megalitres of sewage are treated annually • $6.6M spent on water reticulation and treatment including construction of new reservoir at Wheatley’s Hill and replacement of ageing water mains in Innisfail,El Arish, Tully, Cardwell and Mission Beach. Continued rollout of Smart Meters. Nyleta scheme completed.• $2.0M investment in upgrades and construction to treatment ponds, pump stations and sewer reticulation systems Innisfail, Tully and Mission Beach.• A 1200km road network is maintained annually - 40% of which is unsealed.• $2.1M to deliver new Victory Creek Bridge. • $2.1M for unsealed roads; 396km of road resurfacing maintenance works.• $3.8M to re-sheet gravel roads; 44.8km completed.• 250 hectares of grass is mowed annually.• $6.9M spent on maintaining Council facilities including depots, public amenities, showgrounds, caravan parks and campgrounds, aerodromes, shire hall and civic centre, community halls, pools, and security cameras.• Over 10,000 tonnes of kerbside waste is collected annually.

OBJECTIVERegional infrastructure that delivers levels of service

supported by the community and is financially sustainable.

3. SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE

Included: • $163,000 for town centre refurbishment in Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and Mission Beach. • $68,000 for footpath and car park upgrade to The Conservatorium, Innisfail.• $117,000 for vine control and roadside clean-ups in Innisfail, Tully and Cardwell.• $64,000 for the Johnstone River boat harbour pylons, Innisfail (to be completed in 2019/20).• $356,000 for fender pylon replacement at Cardwell jetty.• $103,000 for refurbishment of community buildings and facilities in Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and Mission Beach. • $256,000 for a covered walkway in Edith St, Innisfail.• $46,000 for footpath replacement at Mission Beach. • $110,000 for foreshore pathways at Mission Beach and Kurrimine Beach. • $255,000 for car parks, solar equipment and BBQs at Mission Beach Aquatic Facility.• $128,000 for Cane Cutter Court/Edith St traffic redirection.A further $3.63M from the Works for Queensland Projects has been secured for 2019-21.

OVER $1.86M EXPENDITURE IN ‘WORKS FOR QLD PROJECTS’(WITH QLD GOV ASSISTANCE)

CONTINUED MAINTENANCE AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURE OF

COUNCIL ASSETS

$356,000 for fender pylon replacement at the Cardwell Jetty. External hire of plant and equipment supports local businesses.

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• Finalising Councillor policies and where required, policies were reviewed and approved by external regulatory authorities.• Development and implementation of Fraud Risk and Ethical Conduct Review action plan.• Audit Committee review and management of recommendations from external and internal auditor to oversee risk assessment processes.• Introduction of new Cyber Security insurance policy and review remaining suite of policies with the Local Government Association of Queensland.• Public Interest Disclosure, Information Privacy/Confidentiality and Fraud training delivered to staff and Councillors.• Reviewing and further development of Enterprise Risk Management register.• Financial data mining audits.

OBJECTIVEEnsure good governance is achieved by having efficient and effective decision-making processes and systems. Maintain

a well-managed, transparent and effective organisation that gives the community confidence, demonstrates financial sustainability and ensures our customers are satisfied with our services and our employees are proud to work here.

4. RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE

• $27.8M spent on local purchasing in 2018-19• Introduced Local Purchasing Policy with increased weighting in tenders for locals.• External hire of plant and equipment injected $8.5M into the local economy.• Council’s $14M fleet of 192 vehicles and almost 700 items of plant and equipment, are maintained with the help of local businesses.

SPENDING MONEY LOCALLY • OPERATING WITH ZERO DEBT SINCE 2017.• ASSETS WORTH MORE THAN $1.2B. TOTAL VALUE OF PROPERTY PLANT AND EQUIPMENT $1.7B.• $53.7M POSITIVE CASH BALANCE.

$256,000 for a covered walkway in Edith Street, Innisfail - a Works for Queensland Project.

Ring beam concrete being poured at Wheatley’s Hill reservoir.

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Nomination forms are available from Council’sCustomer Service Centres and Libraries, or visit

cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/australia-day-awards

For more information call 1300 763 903.Awards 2019

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Creating a winning garden doesn’t happen by accident, but it doesn’t have to be complicated and expensive either. Cassowary Coast award-winning gardener Pat Pensini shares her top tips for how you too can have a great-looking garden for summer.Never mind the limits of your budget or the size of your backyard – creativity and a passion for the hobby are far more important to creating a gorgeous garden you’ll love all year, says award-winning gardener Pat Pensini.

Pat, of Innisfail, was this year’s overall champion in the 2019 Tropical Garden Challenge, run by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

Here are Pat’s top tips that will give you garden results to make you smile all year:

1. WORK WITH THE SPACE YOU’VE GOTPat says a garden of any size can still be beautiful and satisfying to you - even if you’re on a budget or challenged for time.

“Have an honest look at your garden space, and how much time you have for developing it,” Pat says.

“There’s no point trying to set up something you can’t maintain. I’ve got a hectare, but I’m retired and I also make the time to work on it.

“Someone else might have a small backyard or a courtyard garden. It doesn’t matter what size it is – it can still look great, but you do need to work with the size and shape of what you have.”

2. LET YOUR GARDEN REFLECT YOUR PERSONALITY “If it’s something you’re passionate about, it always turns out better. If you’re only doing it because you think the neighbours

are looking, it’s not going to turn out as well,” Pat says.

“Everybody likes different things. Some people prefer cottage gardens and roses, I like gardens which are bold and tropical.

“Enjoying what you do is so important, otherwise you might get discouraged and give up. When a garden feels like ‘you’, it’s a lot more fun.”

3. GET CREATIVE: TRY NEW AND INTERESTING IDEASUse materials in different ways, recycle and re-purpose for creative possibilities, the options are endless, says Pat.

“I lie in bed of a night thinking what I can do next,” she says.

“Or sometimes I’ll see a picture in a magazine and I think ‘how could I do that or use that or change that’.”

For example, Pat and her husband put a distinctive touch on their garden by making their own pavers.

“It sounds complicated, but it’s very doable by the average person,” she says.

“Do up the mix, then put a thickish leaf in the base of the mold you’re using. When it sets, tip it out, and then you’ve got the imprint of the leaf on the paver.

“You can use the same technique with sticks, bubble wrap, leaves, glass beads, there are many possibilities.”

Old materials also can be repurposed to provide new and imaginative design touches.

“I recycle. I very rarely buy new stuff to make something for my garden,” says Pat.

“My trellis in the front gardens are made from the sides of old cane bins. I’ve got a fish that my grandson welded for me that’s made out of old bolts.

“It add character, and it makes it look original.”

GARDENING

PAT’S TOP FIVE WINNING TIPS FOR A SPECIAL SUMMER GARDEN

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CARDWELL WATER IMPROVEMENT PLANT BEST-IN-CLASSA Cassowary Coast innovation to help beat water-quality problems is part of a slate of new designs to be rolled out across the region. In an ongoing effort to combat water-supply issues, engineers at the Cassowary Coast Regional Council late last year completed an innovative project to maintain water quality to the users of the Cardwell scheme. The end result had surpassed all expectations, according to Councillor Glenn Raleigh. He said the Cardwell Water Quality Improvement Project at Meunga Creek successfully identified when water heading to the plant was dirty or muddy, and then acted to stop that water from entering the drinking supply.“Dirty water incidents” usually occurred during wet season in the region, when heavy rainfall sometimes stirred up sediment in catchment streams, Cr Raleigh said.“The first plant proved to be a big success in improving water quality. While different parts of the region also need water-treatment solutions, we will be adapting our technology to suit individual locations,” he said.“The Cardwell plant doesn’t conjure up more water during water shortages, what it does do is make sure that drinking water passing through the lines is the best quality available.”The project also recently won a major State award for engineering, being recognised as best-in-class for projects under $1 million.Recently the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (Queensland) said that the Council’s engineers were able to substantially improve the quality of drinking water at Cardwell, with a cost-effective solution that combined simplicity with effectiveness. Cr Raleigh said: “Award-winning projects like ours can really show that just because you’re regional, doesn’t mean you can’t be best-in-class.“What our engineers do is find ways to help solve problems, and provide benefit to our communities. “Solutions we implement also need to be cost-effective relative to the benefits they provide, and the Cardwell project was a very successful example of that.”Meanwhile, work was expected to begin on a water supply project at the Bulgun Reservoir before the end of the year.The Bulgun system would rely on stored clean water whereas the Cardwell system relied on a bore. However both projects demonstrated the Council’s commitment to the supply of safe drinking water and the eradication of boiled water alerts arising from dirty water/high turbidity events.

4. WHICH PLANTS AND WHERE TO PUT THEMPick plants that have the best chance of thriving in the environment that you’re in. Do your research, Pat says.

Do you want plants that need full sun, part sun or full shade? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ideas in different locations, and what works in your garden may change over time.

“If you want your garden to have shade, you need a structure or trees so that you can grow things in that shade,” she says.

“Sometimes for this you need to plan ahead – our garden has evolved over time. We planted trees years ago that have become fully grown now – and they provide a lot of shade.

“Use your personality to shape what you do. Cottage gardens can be beautiful – but they’re not me. I’m more big and bold with my plantings. I love tropical gardens. However do what works for you.”

5. FEED YOUR GARDEN: FERTILISER IS KEYFertilise you garden regularly, and use more than one brand, Pat says.

Different products have different amounts of trace elements, so mixing it up will make sure your garden stays well-nourished.

Strive to fertilise weekly. Use a watering can for smaller areas, and a hose system which mixes fertiliser in with the water for larger areas.

Seasonal water restrictions can be an issue, so work within those.

Pat’s bonus tip: “For me a garden is never finished. We change something in our garden every year,” she says.

“When your garden is a reflection of your personality and you’re having fun with it, the results will be clear to see”.

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Council’s proud water team with their award, accompanied by Councillor Glenn Raleigh.

Just google...

19 PRODUCTS CURRENTLY RECYCLED BYCASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

When disposing different types of waste, please ensure items are clearly visible to the transfer station attendant, who can then direct you to the correct disposal location/s.

*Container Refund Scheme eligible only.

Council is currently investigating recycling options for plastics, wet paint and household batteries. Disposal fee for mattresses can be avoided by disassembling the cloth and metal components and recycling separately.

ITEM LOCATION REQUIREMENTS COST

Green waste All transfer stations except Murray Upper Free of contaminants No charge for domestic

$15 m³ for commercial

Motor oil All transfer stations 20L maximum No charge

Car batteries All transfer stations No charge

Tyres All transfer stations Based on tyre size

LPG bottles All transfer stations $17 each

Fire extinguishers All transfer stations $17 each

E-Waste All transfer stations No charge

Ferrous metal All transfer stationsGalvanised iron, white goods - air conditioners, fridges, freezers

No charge

Non-ferrous metals All transfer stations Brass, copper, aluminium No charge

Car and motorbike bodies Stoters Hill, Tully and Cardwell Fluids to be drained No charge for body

Cost for tyres and rims

Fertiliser bags Tully, Stoters Hill, Bells Creek Clean and empty No charge

Drum muster containers Tully, Stoters Hill, Cardwell, Bells Creek Clean and empty No charge

Cardboard All transfer stations Dry, clean & uncontaminated non-waxed No charge

Aluminium cans* All transfer stations Empty No charge

Glass* All transfer stations Empty, intact with no lids No charge

Plastic* All transfer stations Empty, intact with no lids No charge

Tip shop products All transfer stations Reusable No charge

Printer cartridges Council Customer Service offices, Harvey Norman Innisfail and Australia Post outlets No charge

Mobile phone batteries Council Customer Service offices No charge

Cardwell0438 617 454

Murray Upper0438 617 454Hull Heads0438 617 454Bells Creek0438 617 454Tully4068 3910

Stoters Hill4061 7393

Mission Beach0438 617 454

INNISFAIL

TULLY

MISSION BEACH

CARDWELL

CLOSED 24 - 26 December & New Year’s DayAMENDED OPENING HOURS 31 December 5:30am - 4pm CLOSED 25 - 26 December & New Year’s DayAMENDED OPENING HOURS 24 & 31 December 5:30am - 3pm

CLOSED 24 - 25 DecemberAMENDED OPENING HOURS 26 December & 1 January 10am - 4pm

CLOSED 25 - 26 December & New Year’s DayAMENDED OPENING HOURS 24 & 31 December 6am - 11am

SWIMMING POOLS

CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s DayOPEN Monday & Friday 10am - 5pm andWeekends 10am - 2pmCLOSED Monday - FridayOPEN Saturday 8am - noon and Sunday 1pm - 5pmCLOSED Monday - FridayOPEN Saturday 1pm - 5pm and Sunday 8am - noonCLOSED Christmas Day, Monday, Friday & New Year’s DayOPEN Tuesday, Thursday and Weekends 10am - 2pmCLOSED Christmas DayOPEN Monday, Tuesday, Friday 8am - 5pmWeekends, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day 1pm - 5pmCLOSED Christmas DayOPEN Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 7:30am - 5pm Weekends, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day 9am - 5pmCLOSED Christmas Day & Boxing DayOPEN Monday & Friday 10am - 5pm, andWeekends and New Year’s Day 10am - 2pm

WASTE TRANSFER STATIONS OPERATING HOURS

All Customer Service Centres, Libraries and Depots close at 3pm onTuesday 24 December and re-open normal hours on Thursday 2 January 2020.

COUNCIL OFFICES, LIBRARIES & DEPOTS

CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCILChristmas Closures & Operating Hours

GARBAGE COLLECTION

No disruption – collection as per normal service days

AFTER HOURS CALL 1300 763 903

Cassowary Coast Libraries

Tue 17 Dec 10am - noon Christmas Crafts (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialWed 18 Dec 10am - noon Family Movie (rated G) Bookings EssentialThu 19 Dec 10am - noon Christmas Crafts (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialTue 7 Jan 10am - noon Slime (ages 6+) Bookings EssentialWed 8 Jan 10am - noon Robotics: Dash (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialThu 9 Jan 10am - noon Family Movie (rated G) Bookings EssentialTue 14 Jan 10am - noon Life Sized Me (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialWed 15 Jan 10am - noon Robotics: Spheros (ages 8+) Bookings EssentialThu 16 Jan 10am - noon Treasure Hunt (all ages) Bookings EssentialThu 16 Jan 2pm - 4pm Teen Movie (rated M) Bookings EssentialWed 22 Jan 10am - noon Robotics: Lego Mindstorm (ages 12+) Bookings EssentialMondays Legorama

Cardwell Library

Innisfail Library

Wongaling Beach Library

Tully Library

Wed 18 Dec 10:30am - 11:30am Pop Up Cards (ages 7+) Bookings EssentialTue 7 Jan 10:30am - 12:30pm Family Movie (rated PG) Bookings EssentialFri 10 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Make a Calendar (ages 7+) Bookings EssentialTue 14 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Sand Art (ages 6+) Bookings EssentialThu 16 Jan 2pm - 4pm Family Movie (rated G) Bookings EssentialTuesdays 3:30pm - 4:30pm Legorama

Tue 17 Dec 10:30am - 11:30am Storytime and Craft Bookings Essential

Thu 19 Dec 10am - 11am (ages 5+) Bookings Essential

Mon 6 Jan 10am - 11am Jigsaw Activity Bookings EssentialWed 15 Jan 10am - 11am Keyring Making (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialThu 23 Jan 10am - 11am Lego Activity Bookings EssentialWednesdays 3pm - 4pm Legorama

Fri 20 Dec 10:30am - 11:30am Embossed Foil Art (ages 6+) Bookings EssentialTue 7 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Desk Organiser (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialFri 10 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Kids Story & Craft (ages 2-5) Bookings Essential

Fri 17 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Code & Colour: Ozobots & Quiver (ages 5+) Bookings Essential

Thu 23 Jan 10:30am - 11:30am Boat Engineering (ages 5+) Bookings EssentialThursdays 3:30pm - 4:30pm Legorama

Just google...

19 PRODUCTS CURRENTLY RECYCLED BYCASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

When disposing different types of waste, please ensure items are clearly visible to the transfer station attendant, who can then direct you to the correct disposal location/s.

*Container Refund Scheme eligible only.

Council is currently investigating recycling options for plastics, wet paint and household batteries. Disposal fee for mattresses can be avoided by disassembling the cloth and metal components and recycling separately.

ITEM LOCATION REQUIREMENTS COST

Green waste All transfer stations except Murray Upper Free of contaminants No charge for domestic

$15 m³ for commercial

Motor oil All transfer stations 20L maximum No charge

Car batteries All transfer stations No charge

Tyres All transfer stations Based on tyre size

LPG bottles All transfer stations $17 each

Fire extinguishers All transfer stations $17 each

E-Waste All transfer stations No charge

Ferrous metal All transfer stationsGalvanised iron, white goods - air conditioners, fridges, freezers

No charge

Non-ferrous metals All transfer stations Brass, copper, aluminium No charge

Car and motorbike bodies Stoters Hill, Tully and Cardwell Fluids to be drained No charge for body

Cost for tyres and rims

Fertiliser bags Tully, Stoters Hill, Bells Creek Clean and empty No charge

Drum muster containers Tully, Stoters Hill, Cardwell, Bells Creek Clean and empty No charge

Cardboard All transfer stations Dry, clean & uncontaminated non-waxed No charge

Aluminium cans* All transfer stations Empty No charge

Glass* All transfer stations Empty, intact with no lids No charge

Plastic* All transfer stations Empty, intact with no lids No charge

Tip shop products All transfer stations Reusable No charge

Printer cartridges Council Customer Service offices, Harvey Norman Innisfail and Australia Post outlets No charge

Mobile phone batteries Council Customer Service offices No charge

cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au 1300 763 903 facebook.com/cassowarycoastregionalcouncil