enlightened : edition 15, end of term special edition (february 2010)
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News and Views for the Light Electorate, Published by Tony Piccolo MPTRANSCRIPT
LIGHT ELECTORATE OFFICE | 148 Murray Street, Gawler SA 5118 | ph. 8522 2878 | fax. 8523 1392 | [email protected] | www.tonypiccolo.org |
News and Views for the Light Electorate | Published by Tony Piccolo MP | Edition 15, February 2010
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WORLD STAGE
Lance Armstrong (centre), ready to begin the Gawler stage of the Santos Tour Down Under.
Gawler once again took pride of place on the world stage when the Santos Tour Down Under came to town recently.
The presence of the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd added to an event that had already attracted international attention and television viewer coverage. At times Mr Rudd was mobbed like a movie star or a celebrity.
(continued on page 12)
Nick Champion, Premier Mike Rann, Gawler Mayor Brian Sambell, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Tony Piccolo at the race start.
Local cyclist Jack Bobridge signs in at Gawler while Robert Ancell looks on.
Indigenous music is the curtain raiser to the big event.
Improving PubilcTransport
Women in theCommunity
ProtectingConsumers
LocalVolunteers
end of term special edition
Photos courtesy of The Bunyip.
2 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 15, October2009
PROTECTING CONSUMERS
Local residents have been urged to not “cave in” to the pressure tactics adopted by some door to door sellers and telemarketers.
Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said his office had received numerous complaints over the past few weeks about the “pressure selling tactics” adopted by some door to door sellers and telemarketers.
Mr Piccolo said while door to door selling and telemarketing is not, in itself an unlawful activity, laws are in place to protect unsuspecting consumers from being ripped off.
“Consumers should ensure they know their rights before signing any contract to purchase any goods or services at the door or over the phone,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said it was always good practice to compare prices and products before purchasing.
Mr Piccolo said the activities of door to door sellers and telemarketers are regulated under the Fair Trading Act 1987.
“The Act sets out clear practice requirements to be met by d o o r to d o o r s e l l e r s a n d telemarketers,” Mr Piccolo said.
“In particular, consumers should be aware of their ‘cooling of ’ r ights, before s igning any contract.”
Mr Piccolo said the Fair Trading Act was amended by the Rann Labor Government during 2009 to provide consumers with greater protection from the pressure tactics adopted by some telemarketers.
Mr Piccolo said consumers should be wary of any seller who wants all of the payments for the goods and services upfront.
“A good rule of thumb is if in doubt, don’t sign! “
“It is important that consumers do not cave in to their pressure sales tactics,” stressed Mr Piccolo. Mr Piccolo said that he has received a number of complaints
Don’t Get ‘Ripped Off’ Warns MP
Thank You
editorial
For further information on any article, please contact the light electorate office or email
The Hon John Gazzola MLC delivered a speech to the Legislative Council regarding the positive role professional sports people play in providing a helping hand and assistance to disadvantaged youth in our community.
M r G a z z o l a i n fo r m e d t h e community of the importance of providing targeted assistance to some of the most vulnerable in our community. Gazzola highlighted the important work already being undertaken by the Rann State Government, including the $5.6 million federal C o m m o n G r o u n d Pr o j e c t , comprising $2.8 million each
from local residents regarding t h e i n s t a l l a t i o n o f h o m e insulation.
Mr Piccolo said there had been a great deal of activity in home insulation following the announcement last year by the Federal Rudd Government of the availability of rebates
However, following two house fires in SA blamed on incorrectly installed insulation, a mandatory safety standard for installing insulation has been introduced.
“Blow-in or bulk insulation is not a safety concern in itself, provided it is installed correctly,” according to Consumer Affairs Minister Gail Gago.
“The main safety issues appear to be with any type of insulation installed too close or covering electrical devices, such as down lights and fans, causing them to overheat and start a fire.”
T h e O f f i c e fo r C o n s u m e r and Business Affairs (OCBA) is concerned however that inexperienced and untrained installers could be attracted to the market.
“We welcome the inclusion of safe installation practices as part of the eligibility conditions for its program and also the work underway to develop an installer training framework,” said Minister Gago.
“We’re the first jurisdiction in Australia to begin working on a mandatory standard for installing insulation,” according to Minister Gail Gago.
Mr Piccolo urged consumers to contact the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs on 131 882 and report any suspicious trader or to obtain advice regarding their rights.
Mr Piccolo said his office was happy to assist any consumer with lodging a complaint or seek ing information about their rights. His office can be contacted on 85 22 2878.
Help For The Young Homeless
This will be the last edition of Enlightened prior to the state election. It has been a pleasure preparing and publishing it for the local community.
In the 15 editions we have published over the past 3 and half years we have endeavoured to keep the community informed of local issues; and where issues are state-wide we have attempted to explain their connection to the local community within the electorate of Light. We have welcomed the feedback we have received after the publication of each edition. Overwhelmingly, the comments have been positive but we have used the criticisms to improve the quality of Enlightened.
In each edition we have sought to focus on a particular issue with a view of covering it in more depth, while at the same time covering matters of broader community interest. In this edition we cover two issues in greater depth: women in our community and the redevelopment of the Gawler racecourse. With International Women’s Day just around the corner we thought appropriate to highlight some issues of interest to women.
With the Gawler race course undergoing its first major redevelopment since it was established in 1901 we thought we would lend the Jockey Club our support by promoting the project. The importance of the racecourse to the environmental and economic wellbeing of Gawler is sometimes not fully understood by some.
It is fitting that in our last edition (for this term of parliament hopefully!) that our front page highlights how once again Gawler has appeared on the world stage – thanks to the Santos Tour Down Under. It certainly has portrayed Gawler and the rest of the South Australia as a great place to live. We have no doubt that tourism in this state will benefit enormously from the world exposure.
We hope you enjoy this edition and that we get the opportunity to publish future editions of Enlightened.Thank you for making the time to read it. We welcome your feedback.
Tony Piccolo discusses consumer rights with local resident Ethel Clifton.
from the State and Federal governments.
In addition to two projects—the $11 million already provided for 100 apartments for homeless and low income earners in Adelaide, and the $9.5 million SA Foyer Plus housing project in Adelaide—is but part of the federal $150 million broader ‘A Place to Call Home’ initiative.
Common Ground Adelaide L i m i t e d , a p a r t n e r s h i p b e t we e n g ove r n m e nt a n d business leaders, has seen the construction of 38 units in the Franklin Street bus station, while the Sands and McDougall
Minister Gail Gago.
project on Light Square will see the building of 60 units due for completion by mid-year. It is the SA Foyer Plus project, and specifically the Ladder Foyer project, that I wish to discuss. SA Foyer Plus is based on a suppor t ive housing model used in England and France and is specifically designed for breaking the cycle of youth homelessness.
Ladder Foyer 2008, an offshoot, launched on 29 October, will see in its first project the renovation of a derelict hotel at the Black Diamond Corner in the heart of Port Adelaide, providing 2 3 s i n g l e , s e l f - c o n t a i n e d
apartments at stage 1 for the young homeless.
The site will also include support, e m p l oy m e n t a n d t r a i n i n g opportunities for young people. The association with the AFL, through its players’ association, will see past and present AFL players, together with prominent women athletes, working with and mentor ing the young residents to improve their lot. In addition, Ladder Foyer will engage these young people with community and business groups in a range of social, cultural and sporting activities as a further platform for stability and development.
Hon John Gazzola MLC.
KEEPING THE COMMUNITY SAFE
Edition 15, February 2010 | ENLIGHTENED | 3
T h e S t a t e a n d F e d e r a l Governments have invested over $2.5 million dollars in road infrastructure in Gawler over the past few months to improve road safety.
Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said the resealing of Jack Cooper Drive and the construction of round-abouts at Ninetieth and Ryde Streets i l lustrates the Government’s commitment to improving safety on our roads.
The investment in road safety has been welcomed by the Chairman of the Gawler Road safety Committee, Mr Robert Laidlaw.
Mr Laidlaw said whi le the c o m m i t t e e f o c u s e d o n increasing awareness of road safety issues, and in particular driver behaviour, improvements to road infrastructure would help make our roads safer.
Mr Piccolo said the work on N i n e t i e t h S t r e e t r e c e i v e d funding through the Federal Governments Nation Building Blackspot program.
$2.5 Million for Road Safety
Tony Piccolo MP, Federal Member Nick Champion and Robert Laidlaw at the 19th Street Roundabout.
W a k e f i e l d M P, M r N i c k Champion said the project was about 75 per cent complete and is scheduled to be completed by mid February once some stobie poles have been removed and lighting at the intersection is installed.
Mr Champion said the $700,000 project would signif icantly improve road safety at the i n t e r s e c t i o n a n d m a k e i t safer for both motorists and pedestrians using Main North Road.
“It will be of particular benefit to those people who drive to the Gawler Railway Station and reduce unnecessary traffic through side streets during peak times.”
Mr Piccolo highlighted that the resurfacing of Jack Cooper Drive from Angle Vale Road to Ryde Street was recently completed in a short period of time.
Costing $800,000, the project involved the laying of 5600 tonnes of hot mix over the 2km section.
In August last year Mr Piccolo wrote to the M inister for Transpor t , the Hon Patr ick C o n l o n M P t o h i g h l i g h t concerns about the condition of parts of Jack Cooper Drive at Evanston.
At the time, Mr Piccolo said that in some sections the road could be quite unsafe for motorcyclists and other small wheel vehicles a n d h e w a s p a r t i c u l a r l y concerned about accidents that could occur as users swerve to miss pot holes.
“ T h e p a v e m e n t h a d deteriorated badly in some areas making it unsafe for motorists,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said construction of the Jack Cooper Drive/Ryde Street roundabout star ted last week (week commencing 4 J a n u a r y 2 0 1 0 ) a n d wa s scheduled to be completed in early April of this year.
The $1mil l ion projec t wi l l reduce speed along Jack Cooper Drive and significantly improve safety at the intersection.
Hewett Crossing set to Improve Child SafetyT h e n e w l y c o n s t r u c t e d pedestrian crossing near the intersection of Main North Road and Kingfisher Drive at Hewett has been welcomed by local residents and the local school community.
Light MP Tony Piccolo said the crossing will provide a safe crossing point across the heavily trafficked Main North Road for school children (from the nearby Hewett Primary School), customers of the directly adjacent shopping village, local residents and all pedestrians in the local area.
“The crossing will help slow down speeding traffic in this area, and make it safer for pedestrians to cross,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said that he had lobbied for the crossing since mid 2006 and was pleased that worked had finally commenced.
Mr Piccolo said the initial delays had occurred because it involved co-ordinating the different priorities of three separate agencies.
“ O n c e t h e p a r t i e s w e r e brought together, they worked co-operatively and the local c o m m u n i t y w i l l b e n e f i t enormously from the improved safety in this locality,” said Mr
Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said the project includes constructing some localised road widening, and resurfacing, installation of kerb ramps, kerbing, signage, line marking and the installation/upgrade of street lighting at the junction.
Mr Piccolo said the Department o f Tr a n s p o r t , E n e rg y a n d Infrastructure (DTEI) has worked in close co-ordination with both the Town of Gawler and the Light Regional Council to determine a suitable location and develop the crossing point details.
Mr Piccolo said the project is estimated to cost in the vicinity of $120,000 and is jointly funded by DTEI, Town of Gawler and Light Regional Council.
Mr Piccolo extended his thanks to DTEI officers and the staff of the Gawler and Light Regional counci ls who had worked diligently to bring this project to fruition.
“I am happy that my office was able to facilitate discussions between the agencies that has led to this great outcome”
“I congratulate all the parties involved,” said Mr Piccolo.
Krieg Road SafetyS a f e t y m e a s u r e s a t t h e intersection of Krieg and Main North Roads at Evanston Park are to be improved following the ongoing inter vention of local State Member of Parliament Mr Tony Piccolo.
Conditions at the intersection were altered to accommodate additional traffic arrangements fo r t h e n e w b u l k y g o o d s development along Main North Road. Mr Piccolo said that he had been advised that the changes were implemented to meet new nationally approved road rules.
Mr Piccolo said he had been informed by the Department o f T r a n s p o r t , E n e r g y & Infrastructure that the old
merging layout no longer complied with national road rules. The changes were met with a flood of complaints from local residents.
At the time of the changes, M r P i c c o l o w r o t e t o t h e Minister for Transport seeking some changes to ensure local residents felt safe in using the intersection and that traffic movements were not delayed unnecessarily.
M r Piccolo reaf f i r med the decision by SA Police and SA Transport Officers that motorists turning right onto Main North Road from Krieg Road can use the painted median to merge into northbound traffic.
Unhappy that the matter had remained unresolved for some time Mr Piccolo wrote once again to the Minister recently seeking clarification as to why a raised or seagull median could not be installed at the intersection.
Mr Piccolo said that a raised m e d i a n w i l l h e l p r e d u c e queuing along Kr ieg Road at the intersection. “A raised median helps create a sheltered area where motorists feel safe in stopping temporarily while waiting to merge,” said Mr Piccolo.
“At the moment many drivers wait for traff ic to be clear in bother directions before merging and this is causing long queues along Krieg Road.”
“ T h e s e a g u l l m e d i a n w i l l encourage drivers to wait in the
centre median area rather than waiting for traffic to clear in both directions,” Mr Piccolo said.
Raised median traffic measures require a certain standard of street lighting be available to avoid motorists driving into
them.
“I have been advised that the review of the intersection I requested has found that the required lighting is available and the seagull median should be installed by the end of March”
Liam Threadgold (DTEI Project Manager); Heather Barclay (Director Asset Services, Town of Gawler); Light MP Tony Piccolo and James Miller, Acting General Manager, Infrastructure & Works, Light Regional Council) inspecting the crossing plans.
Tony Piccolo at the Krieg Road intersection.
New Public Transport Services for Angle ValeIMPROVING PUBLIC TRANSPORT
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Smithfield Plains.
M r P i c c o l o s a i d h e h a s been campaigning for the i n t r o d u c t i o n o f a p u b l i c transport service for Angle Vale and for the John McViety Centre since he was first elected in 2006.
“I am pleased that the people of Angle Vale will finally have a sustainable public transport service,” said Mr Piccolo.
M r Piccolo said the Angle Vale Dial-A-Ride will be a pre-booked service providing access between Angle Vale, Gawler, Munno Para Shopping Centre, Smithfield Interchange and the John McVeity Community Centre.
“The service is designed to assist people within the township of Angle Vale to access services located in G awler, Munno
Para Shopping Centre and rail services from Smithfield Interchange,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said services to the John McVeity Community Centre aim to provide transport for communities in Angle Vale, Munno Para West, Andrews Farm and Daveron Park to access activities held at the Centre.
Mr Piccolo said all going well the new services should be operational before July this year.
Mr Piccolo said he had worked with the local community and the Public Transport Division ( P T D ) o f t h e D e p a r t m e n t o f Tr a n s p o r t , E n e r g y a n d Infrastructure.
“PTD officers and my office have worked very hard to get this service developed to the point it is now a reality,” said Mr Piccolo.
Refurbished Railcars to Gawler
Railcars refurbished under the State Government’s $2 billion revitalisation of Adelaide’s public transport are now in service on the Gawler line.
Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said the refurbished railcars will provide passengers with a cleaner, safer and more comfortable journey.
M r Piccolo sa id the State Government is spending $37 mill ion to refurbish the 70 3000/3100 series railcars as par t of the unprecedented commitment to revitalise the public transport system.
Preliminary refurbishment was
Senior Train Driver Max Atkinson with Tony Piccolo MP in a newly refurbished railcar.
completed at the end of last year with the installation of 900 new glass windows.
Mr Piccolo said the refurbished trains will make using rail more enjoyable and comfortable for the thousands of commuters f r o m G a w l e r a n d t h e surrounding areas who use Adelaide’s train system each year.
Mr Piccolo said commuters will notice many improvements including automated doors, b e t te r s e c u r i t y, i m p rove d c u s t o m e r i n f o r m a t i o n , a n d , i m p o r t a n t l y , m a j o r improvements to meet Disability Discrimination Act requirements.”
Other enhancements include:• new seating• increased space under the
seats to maximise the space for passengers and passenger comfort
• priority seats identified in red• allocated spaces for wheelchairs
which also feature assistance request button
• s p e c i a l a u d i o l o o p s f o r passengers requiring hearing assistance
• an area to stow bikes• more CCTV cameras• a passenger emergency call
facility at each doorway• new passenger information
system providing automated announcements of the next stop and a visual display at each end of the rail car
• improved hand straps and seat grips
• improved weather shielding• graffiti resistant flooring• The three refurbished carriages
are running on two afternoon services to Gawler and the remaining 67 carriages will appear progressively until mid 2012.
Mr Piccolo said it was anticipated that from now, refurbished rail cars will be rolling out about every six weeks so hopefully commuters will all catch a look at what we’ve achieved.
the area.” Mr Piccolo said.
The railway station will see further improvements as part of the electrification of the Gawler Train line.
Mr Piccolo said improvements to the platforms and toilets are part of the State Government $2 billion upgrade of public transport.
Mr Piccolo said the car park upgrade would improve access and improve safety for train users.
The new electrified train service is scheduled to commence in 2013. Refurbished carriages came into operation last month.
Munno Para Station $10 Million UpgradeLight MP Mr Tony Piccolo has welcomed the recent a n n o u n ce m e nt t h i s we e k that the Munno Para Railway Station is going to receive a $10 million upgrade.
Mr Piccolo said the upgrade, estimated to cost $10 million will provide train users in the Munno Para community with a modern station facility.
“The new station reflects the State Government’s commitment to improve public transport in the greater metropolitan area”
“The station will be upgraded as part of the overall electrification of the Gawler line,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said the $293.5 million in funding from the Federal government meant the electrification of the Gawler line could be brought forward by two years.
Mr Piccolo said the new station will provide great facilities for the new urban areas, including the new schools.
Work on the new station is
scheduled to commence this year.
R a i l r e v i t a l i s a t i o n f o r m s t h e c e n t r e p i e c e o f the Rann Government ’s $2 billion investment to modernise our public transport system.
We have already seen works commence on the G awler Station car park expansion and the first stage of track upgrade works worth more than $100 million are set to get underway this year.
The member for Wakefield Nick Champion MP said the upgrade will be a great boost to the confidence of the local community.
M r C h a m p i o n s a i d t h e e l e c t r i f i c a t i o n o f t h e Gawler line will create many local jobs.
When combined with the NEXY project, demonstrates both the State and Federal Governments’ commitment to improving the lives of the people living in Gawler and the Northern Suburbs.
“I wish to acknowledge the commitment of the Rann State Government through the PTD to improve the provision of public transport services within the region”
Mr Piccolo said his office had undertaken a great deal of r e s e a r c h a n d c o m m u n i t y consultation to find a service that would meet an important need in the community and be financially sustainable.
“We don’t want a repeat of previous fa i lures,” sa id M r Piccolo.
“ The Dial-A-Ride Ser vice is flexible enough to meet the different needs of the local community but also affordable.”
Mr Piccolo said the tenders based on the successful Gawler Dial-A-Ride model close at 2pm on 5th March 2010.
Work Nears Completion on Gawler Train Station Car Park Upgrade
Angle Vale will soon have its own public transport service f o l l o w i n g t h e c a l l i n g o f tenders on the 2nd February.
Local MP Mr Tony Piccolo said
that tenders for the provision of “Dial-A- Ride” type services were released last week for the existing Gawler service and new services for Angle Vale and the John McViety Centre in
Work on the upgrade of the Gawler Railway Station car park is almost finished.
Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said he had been advised the revamped car park will have about 70 additional places.
Mr Piccolo has been lobbying for additional car parking for over two years because spill over parking in neighbouring
residential streets was starting to cause a problem.
“ While it ’s great that more p e o p l e a r e u s i n g p u b l i c transport, additional parking was important for both train users and nearby neighbours” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said he understands that the additional car parks will be achieved by relocating the
staff car park to the western side of the station and reconfiguring the main parking area to make better use of the space.
Mr Piccolo said it was planned to have the rose garden developed by the Zonta Club of Gawler reinstated.
“The new car park will also have improved lighting and security measures to increase safety in
Transport Minister Patrick Conlon MP and Tony Piccolo MP review the tender for the Angle Vale Public Transport Service.
Edition 15, February 2010 | ENLIGHTENED | 5
A Fair Harvest for Farmers
Call for Fair Franchising
A S o u t h A u s t r a l i a n Parliamentary Committee has recommended wide ranging reform to state and national consumer laws to give farmers greater warranty protection when purchasing machinery and equipment.
The Economics and Finance Committee of the Parliament handed down its report on the last sitting day of parliament fo l lowing an inqui r y into warranty and safety concerns expressed by farmers.
M a ny s u b m i s s i o n s to t h e
Committee were scathing about the behaviour and ser vice per formance of machiner y manufacturers.
Complaints about “abusive and arrogant” manufacturer representatives were made by farmers and machinery retailers alike.
The inquiry was initiated by local MP Mr Tony Piccolo, who raised the matter in Parliament fol lowing complaints from farmers.
The inquiry was opposed by the
Parliamentary Liberal Party who described the farmers concerns as relatively minor and not worthy of the Committee’s time.
The report Consumer protection for farmers: reaping a fair harvest, makes a series of findings and recommendations.
M r P i c c o l o s a i d t h e k e y recommendations of the inquiry were that the Committee recommends to the Minister for Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries that a mediation scheme to provide alternative
“ I t w o u l d o v e r c o m e t h e deficiencies in the existing mediation provision provided for by the current franchising code of conduct.”
The Commissioner will have the power to collect and publish certain information.
The Bill provides for pecuniary penalties to be applied against parties who the courts find have breached the code.
Mr Piccolo said the Bill “will create in South Australia a fairer, more efficient and competitive environment for franchising to flourish in.”
The Rann State Government has announced that more than 2800 taxpayers in the district of Light alone and around 75,000 state-wide, mainly mum and dad investors, will pay less land tax if the Labor Government is re-elected.
T h e t a x - f re e t h re s h o l d i s being raised from $110,000 to $300,000. This will mean almost two thirds of estimated land taxpayers will not have to pay land tax in the next financial year.
And there will be savings of up to $1,245 for land tax payers above the tax free threshold. I have included a copy of the new tax tables with this letter.
From the 2011-12 financial year, the Government will also increase land tax thresholds in line with the Valuer-General’s annual assessment of average
P a r t i e s t o a f r a n c h i s e agreement will have a duty to deal with each other in “good faith” if a Bill introduced into the South Australian House of Assembly is adopted when Parliament resumes this year.
The Bill was introduced by franchise law reform advocate local MP Mr Tony Piccolo.
The Bill requires parties to a franchise agreement to “at all times, act in good faith”. Acting in good faith means to act fairly, honestly, reasonably and in a co-operative manner.
Mr Piccolo told parliament that the requirement to act in good faith “will, in my opinion, foster a more ethical approach to business in the franchise sector.”
T h e B i l l a l s o c r e a t e s a Commissioner for Franchising. The Commissioner would have the power to mediate, conciliate and to arbitrate.
M r P i c c o l o s a i d t h e Commissioner for Franchising would provide an efficient, e f f e c t i v e a n d l o w c o s t mechanism for parties to a franchise agreement to resolve their disputes.
PROMOTING SMALL BUSINESS
Reeves Plains farmer Malcolm Lucas and Tony Piccolo MP reading the parliamentary report while Andrew Lucas looks on.
Federal Committee Chair of the Franchise Inquiry Bernie Ripoll, local Cheesecake franchisee Brad Skuse and Tony Piccolo MP discuss the new laws proposed for SA.
land value increases.
This will lessen the effects of bracket creep.
These tax cuts are financially responsible. They will not affect the Government’s focus on keeping SA’s finances strong and maintaining our AAA credit rating.
Mr Piccolo said the new land tax regime will benefit small business people and Mum and Dad investors.
Mr Piccolo said the changes to land tax were evidence of State Governments’ willingness to listen to the community.
Tables outlining the tax savings to taxpayers can be found at www.tonypiccolo.org
Land TaxReduced
dispute resolution ser vices for the agricultural sector be created.
Mr Piccolo said the committee r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t t h e a l ter nat ive industr y-based dispute resolution scheme be voluntary, that its decisions are binding on parties and, if necessary, it be given statutory backing to give it effect.
“Giving an industry scheme statutory backing highlights the desire by the committee to establish work able, but enforceable processes to resolve disputes,” said Mr Piccolo.
“ T h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n effectively builds upon the work already undertaken by the South Australian Farmers Federation.”
Mr Piccolo said the Committee has also recommended to the Minister for Consumer Affairs that consideration be given to extending current state-based consumer protection legislation to include farm machinery.
Mr Piccolo said the committee was told farmers should be able enjoy access to “consumer” protec t ion laws l ike other p u rc h a s e r s o f g o o d s a n d services.
Mr Piccolo said the committee was told by the South Australian Farmers Federation President Mr Peter White that farmers who spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on machinery and equipment enjoy less protection
than a person who buys a fridge.
“ T h e r e i s n o c o n s u m e r protection, yet you are paying a lot more than the risk you would take if it was a fridge or whatever” said Mr White.
This view was echoed by most of the submissions tendered to the inquiry. Mr Piccolo said the evidence he heard was consistent with concerns expressed by farmers in his electorate.
The Committee also considers a National Code of Practice for the sector worth investigating. Mr Piccolo said the National Code of Practice would establish service standards and support for purchasers, dealers and manufacturers and articulate a requirement for all parties to act in “good faith”.
“The Code of Practice would be enforceable at law like other codes established under the Trade Practices Act” Mr Piccolo said.
“The Code of Practice could include a range of issues that would ensure that famers received a fair deal when it came to warranty and other service issues”
Mr Piccolo said the report would now be referred to the relevant State and Federal Ministers for a response, but any legislation in South Australia could not be considered until after the State election in March 2010.
“This Bill also flags to the federal government that the states and territories are serious about franchise law reform,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said when a franchise fails it is usually the franchisee who suffers.
“The human toll is at times beyond comprehension.”
Mr Piccolo said the Bill will not help those who make poor business decisions.
“It will not help those who do not exercise due dil igence before s igning a franchise a g r e e m e n t — y o u c a n n o t legislate for that—however, let us promote opportunity and not opportunism. “
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Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo has given his general support to the proposed Gawler Racecourse Development Plan Amendment.
In State Parliament Mr Piccolo said “subject to any changes required as a consequence of community feedback, I believe that, overall, the DPA warrants support …”
Mr Piccolo informed Parliament that he would be consulting with local residents to ensure that his presentation to the Development Policy Advisory Co m m i t t e e ( D PAC ) o n 1 7 December accurately reflected a balanced view of the proposal.
Mr Piccolo told Parliament that he had decided to lend his support for the DPA because it:
“protects an important open space (that is, the racecourse);
provides an opportunity for Gawler High School to grow;
helps to resolve traffic problems in the locality; and, importantly, protects local jobs, which is
Piccolo Backs Racecourse Projectimportant for local businesses and their families.”
M r Pi cco l o a c k n ow l e d g e d that “the DPA can certainly be improved by policies and principles of development that clarify the objectives and provide greater certainty of the outcome.”
“Importantly, the DPA has the potential to address a number of issues in the locality that have been debated for many years but not yet resolved,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said he had received feedback from local residents who were generally in favour of the proposal as long as the traffic issues could be addressed.
M o r row Ave n u e re s i d e n t s generally favoured restricted access to their street from the Main North Road.
M r Pi c c o l o a d v i s e d S t a t e Parliament the proposed DPA is also supported by Gawler High School.
Mr Piccolo said he supported the submission by Gawler H igh S chool to move the
proposed Barnet/Main North road intersection to form an i n t e r s e c t i o n w i t h M o r row Avenue.
Mr Piccolo agreed with the High School that by moving the new Barnet Road intersection slightly north, “would help protect the vistas towards the schools and
would result in better urban design options for the new integrated birth to year 12 school”.
Jockey ClubTakes a Stand
New Turf on Track
The Gawler Council has been accused of “misleading” the G aw l e r co m m u n i t y a b o u t the likely traffic impact of the proposed development for the Gawler Racecourse site.
Dr John McKinnon, the Chairman of the Gawler and Barossa Jockey Club said that the comments made in The Bunyip late last year were mis leading and demonstrated a fundamental lack of understanding of both the proposal and the proposed traffic measures.
Mr McKinnon said he was surprised to read that the Counci l had decided that the plan was flawed despite them demonstrating a clear lack of understanding of the methodology used.
“It is unfortunate that the Council has taken a rather hostile and negative approach to the proposed redevelopment of the Gawler Racecourse.”
“It appears that the Council have their own agenda for the site.”
Dr McKinnon said while the Council has the duty to inform residents of the impact of the proposed DPA it also has a duty to get its facts right.
“The Council seems more intent on inciting opposition to the redevelopment and DPA rather than work with the Gawler and Barossa Jockey Club to make the best economic use of the land
to ensure the long term future of the racecourse.”
“Hundreds of local businesses a n d f a m i l i e s re l y o n t h e racecourse for their livelihood.”
“I don’t understand why the Council appears so intent on pursuing its own agenda that it is prepared to risk destroying the local industry.”
“The DPA will deliver some great outcomes for the locality,” said Mr McKinnon.
Mr McKinnon said the DPA will result in:
• I m p r o v e d t r a f f i c management in the locality by separating the high school and general traffic
• Create quieter traffic areas near the high school
• E n a b l e t h e s c h o o l t o purchase a portion of land to help build the new R-12 School
• Help secure the long term financial viability of the Racecourse
• P r o v i d e e m p l o y m e n t opportunities for young people in the area
• Enable Evanston Park and Evanston residents to shop more locally
• Increase the availability of office accommodation in the area.
According to EH Coombe’s History of Gawler the Gawler Jockey Club was formed on 12th March 1891 and the first official race held 6th June of the same year.
M r Piccolo sa id the State Government has invested over $6 million in the redevelopment a s i t a c k n o w l e d g e d t h e important role the racecourse plays in the Gawler community.
“The development will provide valuable community facilities,“ said Mr Piccolo.
“ The State Government was keen to protect the open space the racecourse provided to the community and this could only be achieved by keeping the club
financially viable, “Mr Piccolo said.
“ T h e S t a t e G o v e r n m e n t investment will help secure the future of the c lub so it can continue to provide valuable jobs and support local businesses.”
“The open space provides many opportunities for a number of environmental projects,” Mr Piccolo added.
Mr Piccolo said he had been advised while the track will be reading for riding relatively soon, the facility will not be fit for use until about August-September this year.
The redevelopment of the Gawler Racecourse has moved a significant step forward with the completion of the laying of the turf for the new track.
According to Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo the laying of the turf on the new track represents the most significant investment in the Racecourse since the site was purchased in 1901 for 1500 pounds.
Whi le rac ing in the town commenced in the latter part of the 1840’s, it did not start at Evanston until the early 1880’s.
Mr Piccolo said the $13 million redevelopment will provide modern facilities for users and a more competitive track.
RACECOURSE RACES AHEAD
Sport and Racing Minister Michael Wright, Tony Piccolo, Premier Mike Rann and G&BJC President Dr John McKinnon inspect the Racecourse project during the recent Community Cabinet.
Tony Piccolo MP lends a hand to (left) Cameron McKean and Richard Obee to lay the first square of grass at the Gawler Racecourse.
WOMEN IN THE COMMUNITY
Edition 15, February 2010 | ENLIGHTENED | 7
Gawler Celebrates International Women’s Day
Over the last ten years a group of dedicated women have gathered to honour International Women’s Day (IWD) in Gawler.
This day is recognized by the United Nations and is celebrated world wide on March 8th.
According to spokesperson Ms Judy Gillett-Ferguson, the first few celebrations were small and initiated by the then Mayor of Gawler, Tony Piccolo with the support of some of the women councillors then on council.
“It has grown amazingly and is now organized by a broad group of women encompassing several prominent women’s and community organizations in the
area,” said Ms Gillett-Ferguson.
Ms Gillett-Fergusson said over the years IWD in Gawler has developed its own format and has included a guest speaker or speakers, musical entertainment and a friendly non competitive debate between senior girls from each of the secondary schools in the district – Trinity, Xavier and Gawler High.
“ This involves the students working collaboratively with girls from other schools – an historic first and most successful!”
“Their topic this year will be – That we should return to the good old days!”
A website promoting the Gawler
celebrations for IWD 2010 can be found at www.iwdgawler.org.au
Ms Gillett-Ferguson said this year the guest speakers will be well known TV personality, musician, environmentalist and Deputy Mayor of the Barossa Council – Patsy Biscoe plus Gawler’s Citizen of the Year, Patricia Dent and Junior Citizen of the Year, Emily Smith.
2010 is also the worldwide centenary of Guiding and so the Gawler branch of Girl Guides will be jointly celebrating this as part of IWD with girls dressed in Guide uniforms reflecting the changes over the past 100 years and a special historic display.
There will be a raffle as well with
White Ribbon Ambassadors
Four local men were announced as “white ribbon ambassadors” at a ceremony held by the Zonta Club of Gawler.
White Ribbon Ambassadors are men who are active in their communities and have taken on the challenge to help reduce violence against women.
The movement, which started in Canada, involves men agreeing to take action to eliminate v i o l e n c e a g a i n s t w o m e n ; whether it be in the domestic environment, in the workplace or elsewhere.
Local MP Mr Tony Piccolo, Lion President Eric Filmer, Gawler Heath S er v ice Fatherhood and Community worker Aaron Phillips and Kiwanian Bruce Townsend were nominated by the Zonta Club of Gawler and presented at an event at Conversations Café as the new Ambassadors.
Event Organiser, Zontian Ms Maggi Gregory said the purpose of White Ribbon Ambassadors is to highlight that men need to take responsibility for their v iolent behaviour towards women.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr
Piccolo said that at first he was a little hesitant about just tackling one form of violence.
Mr Piccolo said we need to change the “culture of violence” that seems to be creeping into our society.
“Unfortunately violence appears to b e co n d o n e d i n s o m e sections of the community as an acceptable form of behaviour.Violence against others robs the victim of their dignity” said Mr Piccolo.
“No one should live in, or in fear of violence, as it undermines the inherent dignity and self esteem of the individual,” said Mr Piccolo.
“Domestic violence is particularly insidious as the victim is often soc ia l ly and economica l ly isolated. We need to stamp out violence in our communities; full stop!” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said alcohol related violence is a major problem in our society, and as a nation, I think we live in denial about the real impact it is having in our communities.
Mr Piccolo said he was pleased to be asked to be an Ambassador and congratulated the local Zonta club for their initiative.
Come and help Gawler celebrate!
Gawler Arms Hotel2pm – 4pmCost only $5
www.iwdgawler.org.au
RSVP by 19 February 2009
Online: www.iwdgawler.org.au
Mobile: 0401 123 214 Naomi
Postal: PO Box 1106, Gawler SA 5118
Bookings are essentiallimited seating
Debate
Entertainment
Guest Speaker - Patsy Biscoe
Girl GuidesCentenary Display
Raffle Prizes
Devonshire Afternoon Tea
International Women’s Day
Sunday 28 February 2010
a great many wonderful prizes kindly donated by businesses and individuals in the district.
The function will be held upstairs at the Gawler Arms Hotel in Murray St on February 28th from 2 - 4 pm. Entry is $5 per head and includes a
Devonshire Afternoon Tea.
RSVP booking is essential by 19th February and can be done online at www.iwdgawler.org.au, post: PO Box 1106,Gawler, 5118 or to Naomi at mob. 0401123214
At the White Ribbon ceremony were (from left) new Ambassadors Aaron Phillips, Eric Filmer, Tony Piccolo and Bruce Townsend with event organiser Maggi Gregory.
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT
Tony Piccolo MP at the launch of the website with some of the (from left) members of the organising committee; Maggie Gregory, Judy Gillett-Ferguson, Abby Davis, Jill Talbot, Linda Bertram and Chair Naomi Arnold-Reschke.
8| ENLIGHTENED | Edition 15, February 2010
Government Pulls Back From Concordiaabout aspects of the 30-Year Plan in State Parliament in November, suggesting options for fur ther growth within t h e n o r t h e r n s u b u r b s b e thoroughly investigated before c o n t e m p l a t i n g a ny m a j o r expansion of housing into Concordia.
“Should these suggestions be accepted by the government…the case for urban growth in areas such as Concordia would need to be seriously reconsidered…” Mr Piccolo told Parliament.
Mr Piccolo said he has been a d v o c a t i n g t h e G a w l e r community ’s views at every
has decided to revise the 30 Year Plan accordingly and greatly reduce the size of development proposed for Concordia,” he said.
“ I s t r o n g l y u r g e d t h e government to reconsider the need for further development of areas such as Concordia beyond those areas already incorporated w i t h i n t h e u r b a n g ro w t h boundary.”
“Those views have been heard and the Government has acted in directing more of the growth in housing in the next 30 years toward Munno Para, Angle Vale and Virginia.”
Mr Piccolo raised concerns
Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo h a s w e l c o m e d t h e S t a t e Government’s commitment to a compulsory buffer zone around Gawler and excluding the greater Concordia area in interim changes made to the 30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide.
M r Piccolo sa id the State Government has responded to concerns raised by him and members of the local community about the potential impact on Gawler of the expansion of development into Concordia as part of the draft 30-Year Plan.
“ H a v i n g l i s t e n e d t o t h e community, the Government
opportunity.
“ D u r i n g t h e N o v e m b e r community cabinet meeting in Gawler, I ensured members of the State Cabinet were made well aware of the feelings of the community and local council,” he said.
“I congratulate the Premier Mike Rann and Minister for Urban Development and Planning Paul Holloway on listening to these valid concerns and taking appropriate action.”
Mr Piccolo said the revised 30-Year Plan will also enshrine “buffer zones” around Gawler.
“These buffers will protect the identity and character of the town and ensure sufficient open spaces are retained to achieve good environmental outcomes,” Mr Piccolo said.
The announcement is further g o o d n e w s fo r t h e l o c a l community concerned about the impact rapid growth would have on the township.
In November, the Minister for Urban Development and Planning told local residents at a public forum that he would not finalise the Gawler East DPA until infrastructure issues were satisfactorily resolved.
New Law Protects Historic Streetscapes
Dalkeith Caravan Park Future Secured
The Town of Gawler is set to be the first Council to take advantage of new laws passed by State Parliament in December to provide greater protection for the external appearance of commercial buildings in historic areas.
At its December meeting the Council resolved to write to the Minister for Urban Development and Planning to ask that a regulation giving effect to the new law be introduced for Gawler.
The Bill was approved by State Parliament in its second to last day of sitting following a change of mind by the Liberal Party who
were originally opposed to the measure.
The Bil l introduced by the Member for Light Mr Tony P i c c o l o M P a m e n d s t h e Development Act to include the “external painting of buildings” in prescribed areas, in the definition of development.
Mr Piccolo said the Development (Control of External Painting) Amendment Act would help protec t communit ies f rom “u n s y m p a t h e t i c ” e x t e r n a l painting.
The Act is likely to particularly affect external painting that is effectively one big sign,” said Mr
A change to the zoning of the Dalkeith Caravan Park that had threatened its long term financial viability has been amended following a compromise brokered by Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo.
The changes were announced in 2008 in the Residential Parks and Caravan and Tourists Parks DPA. The DPA, in part, sort to secure the tenancies of residents in those parks which provided long term accommodation.
Mr Piccolo said that in their submissions to the DPA, the Town of Gawler recommended that the Dalkeith Caravan Park would be most appropriately zoned Caravan and Tourist Park while the Park owners Mr Robert & Mrs Rosalie Flett advised it should be zoned Residential.
Mr Piccolo said in seeking to reach a compromise, the DPA zoned the Caravan Park residential but with significant restrictions.
“Both the Town of Gawler and the Flett’s were critical of the DPA as it stood,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo wrote to the Minister indicating that the DPA was unsatisfactory and asked how it could be amended. Mr Piccolo said from the Flett’s perspective the DPA as it stood provided no surety for their future and
they felt they were open to interpretation of a DPA that for them was confusing at best.
At the time the DPA was been considered by the Environment, Resources and Development Committee. Mr Piccolo made a submission to the Committee on behalf of Mr & Mrs Flett.
Mr Piccolo advised the Committee that during the process of preparing the DPA, Council and the Fletts had divergent views on how the land should be treated under the proposed DPA.
M r P i c c o l o i n f o r m e d t h e Committee that “In the end, the changes to the DPA satisfied no parties. The final change to the DPA, while trying to reach a compromise position between the two, is unworkable in the long term,” said Mr Piccolo.
M r P i c c o l o i n f o r m e d t h e Committee that Mr Flett and the Town of Gawler had come to an “in principled” position which met the needs of Mr Flett to be able to grow his business so that it is financially sustainable and the Council ’s concerns about unwarranted “urban” development.
The Committee referred the submission for the Ministers considerat ion. The agreed position was gazetted recently to the delight of Mr & Mrs Flett.
DEVELOPMENT IN THE REGION
Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said communities w i t h s i g n i f i c a n t h i s t o r i c c o m m e r c i a l a r e a s w e r e particularly at risk from national chains running roughshod over local aspirations.
“The Act will not ban painting, but can give development panels the ability to control the external painting of buildings.”
Mr Piccolo said the Liberal Party’s original opposition to the Bill was disappointing but changed in the Upper House following representations from a number of members of the Gawler community and the South Australian National Trust.
“I am pleased and congratulate t h e L i b e r a l P a r t y f o r reconsidering the Bill and giving it its support. The proposal was also publicly supported by the Town of Gawler, the Local Government Association and the SA Division of the Planning Institute of Australia.”
“I thank them for their support,” Mr Piccolo said.
“It will be up to councils to apply to have a regulation introduced to ensure that this provision would apply to relevant areas.”
Cr Adrian Shackley who moved the resolution for Gawler Council to seek proclamation of areas of the Council said “the whole community benefits from a consistent approach to protect the historic character of areas such as the Town Centre and Main Street Willaston.
“While there have only been a few examples of whole buildings being painted with inappropriate “chain colours”, the effect on the character of an area is out of all proportion,” he added.
Park owners Rosalie and Robert Flett with local MP Tony Piccolo.
Tony Piccolo discusses the Gawler council proposal with Cr Adrian Shackley and Gawler National trust member Mrs Glennys Carse.
CELEBRATING AUSTRALIA DAY
Edition 15, February 2010 | ENLIGHTENED | 9
We Need To Work Together Says MP
A few thousand people attend the various 2010 Australia Day events throughout the Light electorate.
E a c h c o u n c i l w i t h i n t h e electorate held cit izenship ceremonies and a range of activities to celebrate the day.
L ight MP M r Tony Piccolo a t t e n d e d t h e t r a d i t i o n a l breakfast in Apex Park Gawler, the breakfast and Light Regional Council Australia Day Award presentations at Hewett and the Motorcade/concert at the Virgara Winery in Angle Vale sponsored by the City of Playford.
Mr Piccolo congratulated all the volunteers who had helped with organising and running the various events, in particular, the members of the service clubs. Music at the Gawler event was performed by the Gawler Town
Band.
Mr Piccolo has urged Australians to work together to meet the challenges the nation faces ahead and to not be distracted by voices who seek to promote d i s u n i t y a n d u n d e r m i n e the social cohesion we have achieved in the nation.
Presenting his Australia Day address in Gawler and Hewett Mr Piccolo called on Australians to “not to be distracted or sidetracked by those who seek to ignore or distort the great challenges we have all faced and met.”
“The challenge for Australians on Australia Day is to acknowledge that we have come so far as a nation that we have so much to be proud of.”
“While our record is not without
blemish, we have met challenge after challenge that today we can live in relative prosperity and peace.”
In his address Mr Piccolo gave examples of the challenges the nation has faced since 1788.
Mr Piccolo said at the time e a c h c h a l l e n g e s e e m e d insurmountable but we met them on each occasion.
Mr Piccolo stressed of how the nation has adapted to the changes in the world and adopted new ways in our own country.
“And in the truly Australian way, we have achieved so much without great fanfare or pomp,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said “the arrival of Europeans to Australia’s shores
in 1788 posed both a challenge to the newcomers - and the inhabitants of the continent.”
“It has at times been a very difficult and painful relationship, but over time the parties to the relationship have come to gain a better understanding and respect of each other, “Mr Piccolo added.
Mr Piccolo spoke about the challenges to the nation from immigration.
“Since 1788 our shores have witnessed a number of new arrivals. “
“Each wave of new arrivals has challenged both the new comers and the existing inhabitants.”
“ The new arrivals have had to learn and adapt: to a new language, different customs, a
beautiful but foreign landscape and the ability to see the world through new eyes.”
“The existing inhabitants have had to adjust to people with different physical appearances, customs and some beliefs.”
“ W e h a v e , ( s o m e t i m e s reluctantly), met that challenge.”
“And in the main, so have the newcomers met and continue to meet their challenge.”
Mr Piccolo talked about the challenges that Australia faced during war time, political crisis, federation, drought and other natural disasters.
Mr Piccolo pointed out how the nation was able to meet the challenges through peaceful means.
Gawler Mayor Brian Sambell conducts the Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day at Apex Park. Photo courtesy of the Town of Gawler.
International Students (from left) Florian Bachmann (Germany), Terry Wang (China) and Angas Cheung (Hong Kong) enjoy the Australia Day celebrations at Apex Park with Tony Piccolo and Federal Member Nick Champion.
Federal Member Nick Champion and Tony Piccolo with Australia Day Ambassador and Olympic Swimmer Geoff Huegill.
Pat Virgara and Leesa Vlahos with Tony Piccolo MP at the Virgara Winery at Angle Vale on Australia Day for part of the Playford celebrations.
Tony Piccolo and Federal Member Nick Champion congratulate Emily Smith on her Young Citizen Award.
10| ENLIGHTENED | Edition 15, February 2010
COMMUNITY NEWSMinister Praises Local VolunteersLocal volunteers were praised for their significant contribution to the wellbeing of the Gawler community by the Minister for Volunteers, the Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP, during a recent visit to Gawler.
Mr Koutsantonis was in Gawler as a guest of the Gawler Volunteer Resource Centre Advisory Group. The visit was arranged by local MP Mr Tony Piccolo.
In his address to the group, Mr Koutsantonis outlined how the Rann State Government had made significant inroads in providing support for volunteers.
M r K o u t s a nto n i s s a i d t h e Government was interested in hearing ideas on how to encourage more people to become volunteers and keep them volunteering for longer.
“We need to have a better understanding of the barriers to volunteering,” said the Minister.
Mr Koutsantonis informed the group that the current volunteer partnership policy was under review and invited suggestions and ideas on how volunteering
could be made easier.
Mr Piccolo, who also attended the meeting, said the group appreciated the opportunity to ask the Minister questions about volunteering and provide him with feedback regarding their experiences as volunteers.
“ I think both the Minister and group benefited from the
meeting,” said Mr Piccolo.
At the meeting Mr Koutsantonis praised Mr Piccolo for his efforts in helping to establish the Gawler Volunteer Resource Centre and starting the process to develop the local charter.
“Tony is a great advocate for volunteers and volunteering,” said the Minister.
At the Advisory Group meeting were (From Left) Mayor Brian Sambell, Judy Gillett-Ferguson, Peter Heyworth, Andy Fryar, Les Kemp, Rita Britton, Donna Bainbridge, Jodie Grantham, Patricia Dent, Debbie Gray and (front) Win Nicolai, Tony Piccolo, Minister Koutsantonis and Jill Talbot.
Peachey Belt Re-builtStudents in the Nor thern Suburbs are helping to rebuild the Peachey Belt Community according to Light MP, Mr Tony Piccolo.
Speaking at the at the recent handover ceremony held at Smithfield Plains for the 2009 D o o r w a y s 2 Co n s t r u c t i o n project, Mr Piccolo told the guests these students will be able to look back in ten years with pride and point to the homes they have refurbished as part of their studies, and say they were part of the project to rebuild the “Peachey Belt community”
“These students are an important part of the $1 billion program to rebuild and revitalise the Peachey belt through the Playford Alive project” said Mr Piccolo.
The project was initiated by Construction Industry Training Board ( CITB) in 2000 and is
a partnership with Housing SA, Northern Futures, NASSSA, Master Builders Associated, Housing Industry Association, and TAFE.
Mr Piccolo said students are selected from all High Schools in the Northern area, public and non government.
“In 2001 the project started with 15 students, one day a week.” Mr Piccolo said. “In 2009 there were 45 students over 3 days a week.”
Mr Piccolo said since 2003 the project has fully renovated 2 properties every year.
Mr Piccolo said the program is a skilled based project where students achieved a Certificate 1 in Building.
“Since 2001 the project has achieved outstanding success, with nearly 70% of students obtaining apprenticeships or traineeships.” said Mr Piccolo.
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES
AROUND LIGHT
Students and sponsors at the handover ceremony at Smithfield Plains.
Tony Piccolo with federal Member Nick Champion and Stefan Piccolo (left) Jess Nitschke and Raffaele Piccolo at the Gawler Christmas Street Festival.
Tony Piccolo helps Barbara Schwerdt celebrate her 80th Birthday.
Bob & Gwenda Lewis 60th Anniversary.
Mick & Kath Bergen 60th Anniversary.
Tony Piccolo MP with members of the Hillier Park Social Club.Douglas & Irene Hillman 60th Anniversary.
Clyde & Norma Atkins 65th Anniversary.
Enid & Reg Hillier 60th Anniversary.
Edmund and Maureen Millar 60th Anniversary.
Edition 15, February 2010 | ENLIGHTENED | 11
COMMUNITY NEWS
Book Tells Gawler’s History
Greetings From Greenock, Scotland
New Poet In Residence at Trinity College
Martin Johnson’s current work when The Times were A Changin’ helps to develop a narrative for Gawler according to local MP Mr Tony Piccolo.
In launching Mr Johnson’s book Mr Piccolo said “narratives are important as they help thread together the different parts of a community’s experience.”
Mr Piccolo said through the stories of the lives of people born during the 1970s and his poetry Martin gives us a view of Gawler since 1970.
“ The narrat ive i s about a community constantly, albeit slowly sometimes, for ever changing.”
“The narrative is about how Gawler ’s geography and its relat ionship with Adelaide will always define Gawler as neither town nor country, but paradoxically, always the best of town of country.”
“Martin’s poems and stories reflect this paradox,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo said while Martin’s work is new and original it builds
potential due to it’s proximity to airports, sea, and Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow.”
Mr McMillan sent Mr Piccolo a gift of a calendar depicting Greenock landmarks produced by the local newspaper The Greenock Telegraph.
Mr Piccolo said he had decided to donate the calendar to the local community by giving it to the local post office. He presented the calendar to the Greenock Post Office licensee Ms Annabel Mitchell during January.
“The calendar is on display in the post office for the whole community of Greenock to enjoy,” said Mr Piccolo.
pubs. etc.
Mr Guess said although some of the subjects from the list relate to the past and the history of the town these will be examined in relationship with the present – a k ind of contemporar y meditation on what each and every aspect of this place means when examined creatively and poetically.
“The project will be a monument to a moment in time,” said Mr Guess.
After a successful two year
was strongly suppor ted by Scottish MP Stuart McMillan MSP whose electorate includes the Greenock Township.
Mr Piccolo said he understood Greenock, Australia was named by European explorer George Fife Angas’ secretary, James Smith, after the port on the Clyde River in Scotland in 1839. The town is adjacent to the south bank of the River Clyde in the West of Scotland.
“The name Greenock literally means “sunny hill” and is derived from Gaelic, Grain (meaning sun) and Cnoc (meaning hill).”
Mr McMillan lives in Greenock and said the town has so much
a crucial moment in its history, “said Mr Guess.
Mr Guess said Gawler is on the cusp of massive change.
The poems will address firstly the town and district itself. Other sections will be divided between poems that concentrate o n b u i l d i n g s , c h a r a c t e r s , festivals, events, the seasons, the Kaurna Aboriginal heritage, the explorers, shops, churches, schools, gardens, history, the two rivers, the railway, sport, bridges and floods, Church Hill, Gawler’s
The local Member of Parliament for Greenock, Scotland has sent his best wishes to the local Greenock community via local state member Mr Tony Piccolo MP.
During 2009 the Barossa Valley township of Greenock became the focus of attention in Scotland as a result of it sharing the same name as a town in the West of Scotland.
T h e S c o t t i s h p a r l i a m e n t declared 2009 as the Year of the Homecoming and urged all people of Scottish origin around the world to “come home” for a visit during the year.
The “home coming campaign”
Local poet, Jeff Guess, who has a national reputation and nine collections of his verse published has been awarded a living wage grant for 2010 from Arts SA to complete a new collection of poems.
Mr Guess said his new collection ‘ The Turning of The Year ’ is collection of poems that will focus on all aspects of the town and district of Gawler.
“The intent is to capture in verse the unfolding of the year - South Australia’s oldest country town at
upon the same thoughts held by some of Gawler’s founding fathers.
In the late 1840s early 1850s James Martin, described how he had decided to start his own manufacturing business in Gawler “it was then said that South Australia was north of Adelaide and Gawler was the key to the North”.
Mr Piccolo said James Martin viewed Gawler as a place of possible growth even though at that time it was ‘simply a bush town, through which all of the Burra Burra traffic went.
“Martin captures the characters, the events and the experiences of the local people that give the town its culture and soul.”
“When you read Martin’s work it’s easy to visualise the life of the people or the places he is talking about” said Mr Piccolo.
While the stories are about ordinary people going about their daily lives, together they weave an extraodinary tale of contemporary Gawler.
“M a r t i n’s wo r k s a re o f te n
nostalgic but never forlorn, sometimes critical but always respectful”
“His work displays sadness for a bygone era, but is hopeful for the future” he said.
residency at Pembroke School at Kensington, Trinity College have appointed Jeff as a Poet in Residence.
Along with some writing of his own Jeff will be teaching creative writing to students from Years 7 to 12.
Mr Guess said students will be encouraged to write creatively in a range of styles and it is anticipated that the best of the student work will be published in an attractive anthology.
when The Times were A chagin’ tells the stories of the hopes, dreams and experiences of 14 Gawlerites from different backgrounds.
Mr Piccolo said if the stories
weave one narrative, its the strong sense of belonging they have all felt growing up in Gawler.
Tony Piccolo presents the Greenock, Scotland calendar to Greenock post office licensee Annabel Mitchell.
Poet Jeff Guess.
Martin Johnson and Tony Piccolo MP with locals (from left) Karen George, Ben Milligan, Greg Verco, Sheree Woithe, Nathan Assender, Brad Slate, Try Diekmann, and Lee Anne Zardo.
12 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 15, February 2010 cjtdesign.com.au
Prime Minister Rudd and Premier Mike Rann meet and greet spectators at Gawler.
Minister Jane Lomax Smith meets members of the Gawler Little Athletics Club.
Tony Piccolo MP, Australian cyclist Cadell Evans and Premier Mike Rann share a joke before the race.
Tony Piccolo and some children who attended the Tour Down Under fair at Pioneer Park, Gawler.
onlineEnlightened editions are now also published online.
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TOUR DOWN UNDER
ON THE WORLD STAGE
(continued from page 1)
In Gawler alone the event attracted over 18,000 spectators.
Local MP Tony Piccolo said the event had been a great boon for not only the town but for the whole state.
“For over a week South Australia was showcased around the world,” said Mr Piccolo.
“You can not buy this sort of positive international publicity,” Mr Piccolo said. “The potential for tourism for both our town and state is enormous.”
The presence of existing international star like Lance Armstrong and Australians Cadell Evans and Robbie McEwen and South Australian Stuart O’Grady certainly lifted the event to a higher plane.
“Let us not forget Gawler’s own emerging international star Jack Bobridge, “said Mr Piccolo.
The world was able to see the state in all its glory. “From vines to towns, from hillsides to beautiful vallies, South Australia turned it on for the whole world to see.”
Mr Piccolo said the event had grown in stature and significance since it gained pro tour status.
“The state Government should be congratulated for backing this important event.” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo extended his congratulations to the local Council for bidding for the event to come to Gawler. “If the Council decides to bid for the event for 2011 I will be happy to give them my full backing.”
“While the associated Tour Day Under fair did not fare as well as expected it can grow over time,” Mr Piccolo said.
The cyclists assemble before the great race.
Lance Armstrong, Tony Piccolo MP, Prime Minister Rudd and Australian cyclist Cadell Evans just before the start of the race.
Photos courtesy of David Rice from the Bunyip and the Town of Gawler.