Perfect time to rally behind local business and tourism

SUPPORT local

I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that lockdown ending in regional Victoria after four days was a welcome surprise!

As we again pivot back into a more ‘normal’ existence, now’s the time to support our local businesses who are doing it tough.

They haven’t had the chance to recover from lockdown #5, let alone lockdown #6 a week later, so make sure to visit local cafes, restaurants and pubs.

It’s also the perfect time to continue shopping at small to medium sized businesses for goods and services, rather than heading to a big chain.

While we’re at it, let’s commit to exploring everything Greater Geelong has to offer by booking in tours, activities and accommodation in our own backyard.

This support is so important while Melburnians are unable to visit our shores.

We need you

The power of the community coming together to shape the spaces and infrastructure that are essential to our region can’t be understated.

Our people are an intelligent and creative bunch, who over the years have contributed fantastic ideas for new initiatives and how facilities and services can be improved.

And so, I’m calling on the community to do what it does best!

The Interim Final Pakington Street (Geelong West) and Gordon Avenue Urban Design Framework (UDF) is out for consultation until 5pm on September 17.

Pako and its surrounds are one of my favourite areas to visit in Geelong, with its cosmopolitan and multicultural vibe, heritage buildings and eclectic mix of retail and food offerings

In order to continue the renewal of the area, the UDF will guide the City on streetscape improvements, opportunities to ‘green’ the area, long-term renewal projects and infill development in strategic locations.

The city is looking for a diversity of views from residents, shoppers, business owners and café-hoppers, so please make sure to visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au to give us your two cents.

My lovely wife Victoria was a business owner for many years and so our family intimately understands the joys and challenges that come with owning and growing your own business.

Operating in a stable and thriving economic landscape makes a world of difference, which is why the city is developing an Economic Development Plan for the next 10 years.

It will steer priorities and identify issues and opportunities specific to the Geelong region, to ensure the city keeps delivering helpful services and support for local businesses.

If you’re a business owner or considering taking the leap, please make sure to fill out the survey on the Your Say page.

We’re also looking for input from advocacy groups, industry bodies and people in the community.

As chair of the Economic Development portfolio, I believe this long-term strategy is vital in helping to create a prosperous future for everyone in Greater Geelong.

The Victorian Government is also carrying out a round of consultation on the early concept designs for the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication.

As the state’s busiest regional rail line, the council and community have been calling for more frequent and reliable services to our region for many years.

The duplication is set to deliver five trains per hour during the morning and afternoon peaks, and three per hour during those times for Marshall and Waurn Ponds stations.

The project includes an elevated rail bridge to replace two level crossings at Fyans Street and Surf Coast Highway, upgraded South Geelong and Marshall stations, new green spaces and shared paths.

There will be around 8km worth of track duplication from South Geelong Station to Breakwater Road and from Marshalltown Road to Waurn Ponds Station.

As you can see, this vitally important project will have a huge impact on our region long-term.

There’s plenty of time to fill out the surveys on what matters most to you, with consultation ending on September 5 at engage.vic.gov.au.

Say hello

A reminder that I encourage you to get in touch with me, whether that be a friendly ‘hello’ while out and about or an email detailing an issue the council should be aware of.

Drop me a line at [email protected].

Cr Peter Murrihy