President's Report

May 2022

Vincent Street Streetscape Project

The project unfortunately continues to be delayed by COVID interruptions and now the weather. It is hoped that the IGA and Fig Tree carparks will be sealed during May and the commencement of Footpath works on the Northern side from Forrest Street. The footpath works will include trenching for Street Light power connections, replacing Telstra Pits, removal of pavers and the installation of new concrete footpaths.

Easter 2022

Congratulations to all the various Community Groups who ran successful events over Easter. The town was certainly busy with visitors, many of whom are annual pilgrims to Beverley and many who were first timers that said they’d be back.

ANZAC Day Ceremonies

Congratulations to the Beverley RSL Sub Branch for their running of the Commemorative Services on ANZAC Day, both the Dawn Service and Mid-Morning service were well attended. It is encouraging that this day on the Australian calendar continues to grow annually.

Annual Electors’ Meeting and Avon River Park Concept Plan

The Annual Electors’ meeting was held on Tuesday 5^th April with a time of 10:00 start. Council wanted to try a time that might have been more convenient for the community. Unfortunately, attendance did not increase markedly but those who did, engaged with a number of questions. The community should be aware that with many issues arising with Local Government reform, consideration is being given to abolishing Annual Electors’ meetings.

Following the Annual Electors’ meeting, there was a presentation and discussion on the Avon River Park Concept. The concept was well received at the meeting and positive feedback from those present. A thank you to Martin Pell of Sprout Studios for his work on this plan and the presentation. If you were unable to attend, the plans are available in the Shire Office window or online on the Shire’s web page. Public comments are open until Friday 6 May 2022.

Cornerstone Office Three Lease

Office Three in the Cornerstone is available to lease. A discount of 50% for the first three months applies to new tenants. Please contact the Shire Office to view the office or get a copy of the agreement if you are interested.

Community Grants

A reminder to Clubs and Community Groups that the next round of Community Grants will be open in July. Start your planning now to ensure a good application. The grants have been heavily subscribed in recent rounds so Council will be looking for quality applications whose projects/events have maximum benefit to the applicant and community.

Recreation Ground Terrace

The completion of the terrace out the front of the function room is almost complete. Tactile indicators and handrails are to be installed in the coming weeks.

Fire Control and Management

With Summer now past and the risk of fire lessened, it is timely to acknowledge the work and responsibility undertaken by our Fire Control Officers without whom the Shire and community would have difficulty managing. Thank you to you all for taking on these roles and continuing in them. Thank you also to Troy Granville who supports our Officers and his role in liaising with DFES. And of course, thanks to the volunteers who are so quick to respond.