Councillor consultation over coffee

EPPALOCK Ward councillor with the City of Greater Bendigo, Aaron Spong, recently met with residents at The Watering Hole to discuss concerns about the town and talk about upcoming projects.

Cr Spong said the Coffee with a Councillor session was a great opportunity to listen to community concerns.

“It is also a chance for residents to learn about upcoming projects and gain a better understanding of what council is, and is not, responsible for,” he said.

“Where an issue falls outside council’s responsibilities, my role as a councillor is to advocate for change and work with state and federal government representatives to ensure our community’s voice is heard.

“A wide range of topics were discussed, spanning all levels of government.

“These included the removal of school crossing supervisors and crossings and the proposed streetscape upgrade along High Street from Chauncey Street through to Jennings Street.

“Residents also expressed their concerns about fairer allocation of rate-based revenue to outlying areas of Greater Bendigo, and the development of the Heathcote Community Hub, including its proposed completion date.”

Cr Spong said it was important to highlight the many positive changes that are gradually taking place across Heathcote, rather than focusing solely on challenges.

“One issue I have been strongly advocating for behind the scenes is the clearing and removal of vegetation within McIvor Creek,” he said.

“Council is currently working to secure funding to undertake this important project.

“Should the funding be successfully obtained, council and I are looking to establish an advisory committee to help oversee and maintain the long-term health of the creek.

“This would be similar to the successful community-led approach we implemented with the pool last year.

“I want the people of Heathcote to know that the town once again has a voice in the council chamber after many years of feeling unheard.

“I am in Heathcote most weeks, I continue to live locally, and I am always accessible and happy to hear from residents.”

The Watering Hole co-owner Joan Stammers said she was pleased to see how many people attended the event.

“It is good of him to come and meet with us on a weekend and listen to people’s concerns,” she said.

“I have always found Aaron very responsive and willing to help when the community comes to him with issues.

“I would encourage everyone to contact him if they need help with any council or town matters.”

For those interested in becoming involved in the proposed McIvor Creek Advisory Committee, contact [email protected] or Cr Spong’s social media channels.