Published on 22 December 2020
As one year ends and another starts we can all remember the difficulties of recent times due to the pandemic, and hope the lessons learnt make us all stronger, and mindful of the need to be prepared for such an occasion. It takes strength of character to take responsibility for failures, and wisdom to get ready for the next challenge.
West Wimmera Shire Council held its annual morning tea to thank the large numbers of volunteers who help out various organizations and individuals and keep the wheels turning even when times are tough. Without their willing help, life would not be as meaningful to so many people. This year we especially acknowledged those who have delivered Meals On Wheels, often over a large number of years. Quite a few of those volunteers retired this year and we marked the occasion with a special certificate of thanks.
With the large amount of grain being delivered into local receival points there has been a need to assist with the provision of extra storage facilities. There was a rush to provide late permits and I would like to thank staff who worked overtime to be able to make it happen. It appears this will turn into full time jobs throughout the year with out loading.
There has been a lot of comment on the need for enforcement of cleanups on private blocks within townships. To meet with legal requirements we will be revising our local laws to ensure we have the correct authority in place. It is pleasing to see that over recent months there has been a number of people mowing and helping out others who have not been able to get back to their properties due to restrictions on movements around the state and interstate. It's also worth noting that local councils cannot serve notices on properties that are owned by State or Federal Government authorities.
We have had consistent rain this spring which has caused the grass to grow very high and make the timing of preventative works such as slashing difficult. We have seen a a couple of fires starting along the roadsides already. The reasons are not always obvious, and could be attributed to cigarette butts or cars pulling off into long grass, then continuing on without realizing they had created a problem. Be mindful of the fire risks this summer and take steps to keep us safe from fire.
Let's all look forward to a happy and prosperous 2021.
Keep well and safe over the holidays,
Bruce Meyer OAM
Mayor, West Wimmera Shire Council