COUNCILLOR COLUMN – September 20, 2018

Exciting time for region’s libraries
I’m passionate about the role of libraries in our community, and as Chair of the Geelong Regional Library Board, I’m proud of the wide range of programs and services these important facilities offer.

There are 16 libraries across the region, and they all make a positive impact in the communities they serve.

At the moment, we’re making a dedicated effort to grow our programs for children and young people.

Libraries are uniquely positioned to play a central role in supporting literacy and fostering a love of reading and learning from a young age. With school holidays about to start, we have an exciting program lined up.

We’re also focussing on creating safe and welcoming spaces for young adults, with services such as access to WiFi, study spaces and social spaces.

These efforts are being reflected in a growing number of young people coming through the doors.

It was great to see the Barwon Heads library almost double its visitors during the 2017-18 financial year, compared to the previous 12 months.

Visitor numbers went from 5,959 in 2016-17 to 11,046 – a massive 85.4 per cent jump.

The other figure that stood out was the 30.4 per cent rise in eBook and eAudiobook loans across the region, reflecting the modern trend towards technology.

This is a reminder of the importance for libraries of catering to our members’ changing needs.

There are some great events coming up on the libraries calendar, and most are free for library members. Visit www.grlc.vic.gov.au to have a look.

White Night to light up Geelong
I was thrilled to help launch the program for Geelong’s first ever White Night, which will bring the city to life in spectacular fashion on Saturday October 13.

The City of Greater Geelong is proud to be a supporter via Geelong Major Events funding.

White Night will feature more than 50 different displays and performances, stretching down Gheringhap Street from Ryrie Street all the way to the waterfront.

The opportunity to use the bay gives Geelong’s White Night a unique element, and one of the key themes will be celebrating our maritime heritage.

I’m looking forward to the ‘Siren Song’ display, which will see colourful images of Sirens (Greek mythological creatures) projected onto the sails of yachts anchored beside Cunningham Pier.

It’s a great opportunity for our entire community to come together for a night out, and it will also attract thousands of visitors, which is great for the local economy.

Visit whitenight.com.au/geelong to read the full program and start planning.

Have your say on early years plan
There are around 30,100 children aged under nine in Greater Geelong, and that number is growing.

As a Council, we have an important role to play in helping these children make a positive start to their lives.

We’ve just released a draft Municipal Early Years Plan, which details how we’ll seek to improve the health and wellbeing of the region’s children and their families over the next four years.

The plan covers maternal and child health, outreach, long day care, kindergarten, family day care, school holiday programs, playgroups, parenting programs, and leisure and recreation services (such as swimming lessons).

It also includes infrastructure such as playgrounds, bike paths, leisure centres and child care centres.

There is a particular focus on identifying and supporting those who need help the most.

We’re very keen to get as much community feedback on this plan as possible, so if you’re interested, please visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au/yoursay.