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Rural Round Up

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″ offset=”vc_col-lg-1/5 vc_col-md-1/5 vc_col-xs-1/5″][us_image image=”78537″ size=”thumbnail” align=”left” style=”circle” has_ratio=”1″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/12″ offset=”vc_col-lg-4/5 vc_col-md-4/5 vc_col-xs-4/5″][vc_column_text]By Warren Waddell[/vc_column_text][us_post_date][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]With all the rain we have had it is hard to imagine bushfire preparation being a priority. However, I was pleased to attend the Wiseman’s Ferry Recovery and Planning presentation day during September. The day provided an excellent opportunity for the community to connect with a range of emergency service providers. Whether it was a question of current flood relief or a question of future preparation against environmental threats, people were on hand to assist.

While on the topic of services, I feel some further updates on road repairs could be useful. As most residents are aware, the conditions for completing even the scheduled works have been challenging. Generally, our approach fits within three categories:

– A permanent or temporary “soft fill”, (or other material), into potholes highlighted by Council staff or the community. The quickest turn around and mostly with road user safety in mind

– Damage or road fatigue considered too severe for patching alone and therefore, escalated to engineering for a better long-term result but with budget considerations. Often appears as a complete re-sheet and takes longer to put together as the substrate needs to be dry as well as the actual weather on the day

– Flood affected damage eligible for State funding. Often where substantial washouts have occurred. Work cannot start until approved, so a lot more temporary patching and warning signs will be in place

I am working on road work schedules being made available online but for now, happy to tackle enquiries at any time.

It should also be noted that our “Healthy Ageing Hornsby” strategy is currently on exhibition. Council takes improving the lives of our older residents very seriously. Examples of the way in which we can make the community more accessible and inclusive for our older residents is by:

– Making improvements to how seniors live and get around

– Support access to volunteering and work opportunities

– Making sure our information is easy to understand and our services are accessible and inclusive

The challenges within the rural area are often even more specific. So, I encourage community input up until the 7th November using the link provided… https://yoursay.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/healthy-ageing-hornsby

In addition, we are seeking members of the community to join our Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee. If you have an interest in the Arts and local culture it would be great to see some rural representation joining Councillors and community groups on this panel. https://yoursay.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-cultural-advisory-group

As always, happy to be contacted and to assist with any issues. My details are Ph: 0499 004 861 E: [email protected][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]