Group brings a wealth of knowledge to the table

Wyong Shire Council’s Shire Strategic Vision project took a huge step forward on Wednesday with the first ever gathering of the Community Liaison Group at Council’s Civic Centre.

The 14 member CLG brings together a diverse cross section of the local community, with each person bringing different skills, backgrounds and extensive community networks to the table. Read all about the vision project.

The group comprises leaders in the business community, education, youth and children’s groups, the environment and community group leaders with ages ranging from early 20’s to early 70’s. They will help formulate options for the Shire Strategic Vision and drive the community consultation process.

The Shire Strategic Vision aims to set the direction of the community over the next 20 years.

“The people that have been chosen to be a part of the group are there because of their networks and community connections,’’ Wyong Shire Council General Manager Kerry Yates said.

“They are important because they are getting information from and to the community.

“Planning for 20 years time is not an easy task … it’s pretty challenging.

“When you look back 20 years, we had built Mangrove Dam which was going to solve all of our water issues, Wyong Hospital had just opened, the F3 had opened and the railway line had been electrified … we thought we were coming in to Utopia.

“But 20 years on, we still have issues _ many of them the same as 20 years ago _ and the time has come to look ahead.

“We are looking forward to many interesting discussions with this group.”

Project Manager Dan Smith was impressed with the CLG’s drive.

“The Community Liaison Group members sprang into their program with enthusiasm,” Mr Smith said.

“They received detailed briefings on consultations that have taken place throughout the Shire with over 3000 residents starting with the Community Plan and Quality of Life programs.

“The invaluable input from the members was recorded which will begin formulation of a Shire Strategic Vision that will ultimately go to exhibition in the middle of 2009.

“ Last night’s meeting provided important input and a commitment to continue contact throughout the community as the Shire Strategic Vision is formulated over the next 18 months.

“The Group was given a firm understanding on the extensive nature of the job ahead to formulate a Shire Strategic Vision.

“They provided comment on their role to actively provide information to the community and bring back input from Shire community as the options for vision are explored."

The CLG’s next meeting will be held on March 6, where a Chairperson will be elected and assist with ongoing information exchange and publicity concerning this difficult, but exciting initiative.

Media contact: Cameron Bell (02) 4350 1667

Page last updated: 22/02/2008