enlightened : edition 6 (july 2008)

12
NIGHTMARE ON KUHLMANN LANE A Freeling couple’s plans to build their dream home has become a nightmare journey for them. About a year ago Michele and Paul Keynes were busy preparing their plans for their new famly home. They were excited by the prospect that their home would soon become a reality. Then their plans hit a brick wall - their home design did not meet Light Regional Council’s (LRC) new Heritage Conservation Zone policies which came into force after they purchased the allotment. Attempts by Paul and Michele to negotiate a compromise with LRC officers were unsuccessful. They then sought the assistance of Light MP, Tony Piccolo, who then held a number of meetings, and made a number of submssions to Council officers on the Keynes behalf before a compromise was finally reached. Mr Piccolo was able to submit a number of suggestions which resulted in the application being approved. The Keynes are angry that their appliction took about nine months to approve. The Keyne’s told Enlightened that if had not been for the support of Tony Piccolo they would have given up. “The whole experince has been extremely difficult” said Mrs Keynes. Mr Piccolo said that the problem with the policies is that they took a long time to LIGHT ELECTORATE OFFICE | 148 Murray Street, Gawler SA 5118 | ph. 8522 2878 | fax. 8523 1392 | [email protected] | www.tonypiccolo.org | For further information on any article, please contact the light electorate office or email [email protected] inside 6 McLeod’s Law & Order Budget 2008 Centenary 2 3 6 10 implement and covered too large an area of the town, and they caught developments which were not envisaged. Mr Piccolo said that on a brighter note the Keynes matter had contributed to a review of the policies by the Council. “The policies have to be applied in a practical, pragmatic manner, or they undermine the whole concept” “In times of diminshing housing affordbility, councils must ensure that they do not cause undue delays to potential homeowners” said Mr Piccolo. “In fairness to the Council, the new CEO has acknowledged the problem and is trying to address it” said Mr Piccolo. Go, Go Gophers! It’s great to see an increase in the number of people using gophers to get around. Gophers are a great way to get from A to B. For some users of gophers however accessing railway crossings has presented some challenges. If accessing a railway crossing using a gopher presents problems for you, a staff member from TransAdelaide will meet you on-site at the crossing and work with you to develop techniques to safely cross. Please contact us at the office on 8522 2878 if you would like us to put you in touch with the right people at TransAdelaide to help you. Many people for comfort and safety are purchasing oversize gophers. Oversized gophers are capable of negotiating the rail crossings if negotiated correctly. Once again TransAdelaide staff are happy to work with you to ensure you are able to cross safely. If you purchased a gopher, and advised the retailer of the purpose of the gopher and this included crossing railway lines, then your gopher should be able to do this. In this respect you are covered by the fair trading legislation which has an implied warranty provision that good purchased are fit for their intended purpose. If you purchased a gopher and it doesn’t do what you intended it to do then you can contact the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs on 13 1882 for advice on your rights and obligations in respect of fair trading. News and Views for the Light Electorate | Published by Tony Piccolo MP | Edition 6, July 2008 Over 3000 people attended the celebration for the McLeod’s Daughters series Local Police Superintendent discusses policing in the area Building better schools with the Government’s Education program Local school celebrates a significant milestone Michelle and Paul Keynes

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News and Views of the Light Electorate, Published by Tony Piccolo MP

TRANSCRIPT

NIGHTMARE ON KUHLMANN LANE

A Freeling couple’s plans to build their dream home has become a nightmare journey for them.

About a year ago Michele and Paul Keynes were busy preparing their plans for their new famly home. They were excited by the prospect that their home would soon become a reality.

Then their plans hit a brick wall - their home design did not meet Light Regional Council’s (LRC) new Heritage Conservation Zone policies which came into force after they purchased the allotment.

Attempts by Paul and Michele to negotiate a compromise with LRC officers were unsuccessful. They then sought the assistance of Light MP, Tony Piccolo, who

then held a number of meetings, and made a number of submssions to Council officers on the Keynes behalf before a compromise was finally reached.

Mr Piccolo was able to submit a number of suggestions which resulted in the application being approved.

The Keynes are angry that their appliction took about nine months to approve.

The Keyne’s told Enlightened that if had not been for the support of Tony Piccolo they would have given up. “The whole experince has been extremely difficult” said Mrs Keynes.

Mr Piccolo said that the problem with the policies is that they took a long time to

LIGHT ELECTORATE OFFICE | 148 Murray Street, Gawler SA 5118 | ph. 8522 2878 | fax. 8523 1392 | [email protected] | www.tonypiccolo.org |

For further information on any article, please contact the light

electorate office or [email protected]

inside 6

McLeod’s

Law & Order

Budget 2008

Centenary

2

3

6

10

implement and covered too large an area of the town, and they caught developments which were not envisaged.

Mr Piccolo said that on a brighter note the Keynes matter had contributed to a review of the policies by the Council.

“The policies have to be applied in a practical, pragmatic manner, or they undermine the whole concept”

“In times of diminshing housing affordbility, councils must ensure that they do not cause undue delays to potential homeowners” said Mr Piccolo.

“In fairness to the Council, the new CEO has acknowledged the problem and is trying to address it” said Mr Piccolo.

Go, Go Gophers!It’s great to see an increase in the number of people using gophers to get around. Gophers are a great way to get from A to B.

For some users of gophers however accessing railway crossings has presented some challenges.

If accessing a railway crossing using a gopher presents problems for you, a staff member from TransAdelaide will meet

you on-site at the crossing and work with you to develop techniques to safely cross. Please contact us at the office on 8522 2878 if you would like us to put you in touch with the right people at TransAdelaide to help you.

Many people for comfort and safety are purchasing oversize gophers. Oversized gophers are capable of negotiating the rail crossings if negotiated correctly. Once again TransAdelaide staff are happy to

work with you to ensure you are able to cross safely.

If you purchased a gopher, and advised the retailer of the purpose of the gopher and this included crossing railway lines, then your gopher should be able to do this. In this respect you are covered by the fair trading legislation which has an implied warranty provision that good purchased are fit for their intended purpose.

If you purchased a gopher and it doesn’t do what you intended it to do then you can contact the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs on 13 1882 for advice on your rights and obligations in respect of fair trading.

News and Views for the Light Electorate | Published by Tony Piccolo MP | Edition 6, July 2008

Over 3000 people attended the celebration for the McLeod’s Daughters series

Local Police Superintendent discusses policing in the area

Building better schools with the Government’s Education program

Local school celebrates a significant milestone

Michelle and Paul Keynes

2 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 6, July 2008

Over 3000 people attended the Gawler Health Foundation celebration for the McLeod’s Daughters series.

The event which was attended by its cast and crew was to say thank you and farewell.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said that attendance at the event demonstrated how popular the series was in the community.

“This was on a day when the temperature rose to 40°C,” said Mr Piccolo.

“This event was a true reflection of the Gawler community spirit where everyone rolled their sleeves up and joined with the Gawler Health Foundation to make the farewell a wonderful celebration.”

Mr Piccolo delivered a speech in parliament acknowledging the importance of the series to the Gawler and surrounding region.

Mr Piccolo said the hit TV series was developed by Posie Graeme-Evans in the early 1990s for her company, Millennium Television, in conjunction with the South Australian Film Corporation.

According to Posie, the series was successful because the timing was right for this type of show - a rural based series which showcased a predominantly female cast and told stories that reflect the lives and desires of contemporary Australian women.

Mr Piccolo said who could forget episode 186, appropriately entitled ‘Ever After’, in which Stevie and Alex finally tie the knot?

McLeod’s Daughters is the first prime time drama series to be filmed entirely in South Australia. Sadly, though, on Tuesday 20 November 2007 Channel 9 announced that series eight would be its final.

Mr Piccolo told Parliament that he was lucky enough to have a good working relationship with the production team.

“I was able to go on the set, twice when I was mayor, and on two occasions with the Premier,“ said Mr Piccolo.

“The actors and crew and the production team were always generous with their time.”

Mr Piccolo said the production team have supported numerous

local community events and activities, including the Gawler Horse Festival.

“Simmone Jade MacKinnon generously attended the launch of the wedding dress display at the local Gawler dry cleaner owned by Cec and John Batten.

Mr Piccolo said while the series has been very important to the district, the state government has also supported the series with an appropriate assistance package.

“The Premier in his capacity as Minister for the Arts has lent his strong support to the series.”

Mr Piccolo said each series has reputedly injected $1 million into the local economy of Gawler and surrounding districts.

“I would like to put on record my thanks to the producer, Ms Vicki Barr, who has always been very happy to work with local councils, the community and me for the benefit of the community as a whole and the series itself” Mr Piccolo told parliament.

“The series will leave a wonderful legacy and its tourism benefits to the area continue today. “ said Mr Piccolo.

Daughters Leave Home

The Light Electorate Office responds to issues arising out of change on a daily basis.

The changes in our lives are constant and seemingly every increasing.

For some people change will bring opportunity and success while for others it brings challenges.

An example of a recent change that has pleased some people and not others is the changes to the Gawler train timetable.

By people communicating to me I was able to tell the Government that there was an issue with the Friday night train and it was reinstated in the same week. If no-one had told me then I would not have been able to advocate on their behalf.

I am continuing to talk with the Government about the concerns people have raised regarding the trains and while it may be that I cannot effect every change you ask for, your feedback is invaluable as it does inform decision making.

Some decisions and changes can also take time to happen but it is still important for you to tell me what you want and for me to keep advocating on your behalf.

Change also happens as a consequence of changes around us. It is important that these changes are responded to in a positive manner.

A really positive example of this is the GP Inc story on the front cover. This story celebrates a number of people coming together and saying we need to make changes so that people receive the services they need and don’t miss out. The GP Inc model is one that serves Gawler and the surrounds well and I congratulate the people involved.

Communication is the key to managing change well and it is an area that is often neglected. If this happens to you then I encourage you to get the information you need so that you can be informed and then respond from this point. My office is happy to assist you to get the information you need.

Change can be daunting but being well informed about the changes makes a difference. Community meetings to discuss proposed changes are a good way to go forward. If there is a topic you would like to discuss further and you think a community meeting would be of benefit then please let my office know and we will facilitate this.

If you don’t like something change it. If you can’t change it change the way you think about it and remember, think globally, act locally.

Change, Challenges and Communication

editorial

Cartoon by George Aldridge.

Abi Tucker, Edwina Ritchard, Tony Piccolo MP and Simone Jade MacKinnonTony Piccolo MP with two constituents

Edition 6, July 2008 | ENLIGHTENED | 3

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo says that he gets a lot of comment from the community regarding policing in the region.

To help the community gain a better appreciation of local policing issues, Enlightened asked the local Superintendent Mr Ferdi Pit some pertinent questions.

EnlightenedThere is a perception in the community that the Gawler region has insufficient police to control crime. What is your view regarding this perception?

Superintendent PitGawler is part of the Elizabeth Local Service Area (LSA) which has various police resources including CIB, Traffic, Uniformed Patrols, and various other support functions. There are six patrol teams operating out of the Gawler Police Station, operating on a 24/7 shift pattern. This allows for at least two patrol cars per shift, as well as extra ‘cover’ cars during the peak times, which are 9:30am until 6:00pm and 6:00pm until 2:30am.

The Gawler patrols can, and do,

call on resources from within and outside the LSA if required. A current example of this is the policing operation – ‘Operation Street Safe Gawler CBD 2’, which focuses on street crime within the Gawler CBD and involves the policing of licensed premises within Gawler each Friday and Saturday night for the length of the operation. Police from Gawler, Elizabeth Traffic, Northern Traffic, Elizabeth Patrols, and the Licensing Enforcement Branch are involved in this operation.

Similar operations are run in other parts of Gawler on an ‘as needed’ basis. Further, although traffic policing is undertaken by all police, there is a specialist Northern Operation Service Traffic team operating seven days a week from the Gawler police Station.

EnlightenedMr Piccolo’s Office receives many letters and emails expressing concern about the lack of a 24 hour police station in Gawler. How does the operation of the police station fit into the overall policing of the area?

“Gawler Well Served” says Superintendent

Superintendent PitThe office hours for the Gawler Police Station are currently 8:30am to 7:30pm, Monday to Friday; and 9:30am to 6:00pm Saturday and Sunday. In the foreseeable future we will be trailling a new roster with coverage from 8:30am to 9:00pm seven days a week. This will be in line with the Salisbury Police Station front office.

This proposed change in office hours has resulted from community consultation and appropriate allocation of resources. If there is a real need to go beyond those times, then adjustments will be made as appropriate.

EnlightenedWhat is the quickest way for a member of the community to obtain police assistance?

Superintendent PitIn an EMERGENCY situation, members of the community should contact 000. In order to gain police attendance OR report a crime or traffic complaint, people should ring the Police Attendance Hotline on 131 444.

EnlightenedHow will the new shop front in Blakeview assist with the policing of the northern suburbs, and in particular, the Peachy Belt area?

Superintendent PitThe shop front police station situated at Blakeview is purposely designed to improve customer service to those members of the public who need to conduct police business during business hours. The station will be open during normal business hours from Monday to Friday.

The station has been situated at Blakeview having taken into account future population growth predictions, coupled with the proposed expansion of roads and pedestrian infrastructure.

The policing of the northern suburbs and the Peachy Belt area is policed by general Elizabeth LSA patrols and supported by various specialist functions on an ‘as needed’ basis.

EnlightenedHow much success has SAPOL had with the new anti-hoon laws?

Superintendent PitLocally, the anti-hoon laws have greatly assisted police in their efforts to reduce the incidence of inappropriate driving. In the period from July to December 2007, Elizabeth police have reported or arrested in excess of 80 people for contravening this legislation.

In an Australian first, the Gawler community has access to first class after hour’s health care and emergency services through Gawler GP Inc.

Gawler GP Inc was developed after extensive consultation and research so that residents of the region have access to 24 hour professional care.

Lyn Gill, CEO of Gawler GP Inc said the service means residents of Gawler and the surrounds can access the most up to date and accessible care without having to travel to larger, metropolitan hospitals.

“Four GP clinics in Gawler and Williamstown have combined to offer a service which will be second to none. “ said Ms Gill.

Gawler GP Inc is a private organisation operating from a public health service.

“The GP Clinic has all of the features of a public service but it is a private clinic running out of a public facility”, she said.

GP Inc also receives support from Country Health South Australia

and the federal Department of Health and Ageing.

Lyn acknowledged the work of the local GPs who by working with the hospital to establish this not-for-profit incorporated body means, the Gawler Health Service is able to provide services that cater for everyone with no need to travel long distances.

Lyn said people find that waiting times in the service are significantly less than for other

comparable services.

“The co-operative and innovative approach to this service delivery has been of great benefit to the whole community”.

As is usual, when visiting a GP a gap fee will apply and people are asked to pay this at the time of their consultation.

The Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and the GP Clinic is open

Monday to Friday, 6pm to 10pm, Saturday 12noon to 10pm and Sunday and public holidays 9am to 10pm.

Ms Gill said the service does not duplicate usual GP services but rather complements them by offering extended hours and access to hospital facilities when necessary.

The Emergency Department & GP Inc are located at the Gawler Health Service, Hutchinson Road, Gawler.

Gawler GP Clinic in Aussie First A Quiet AchieverFamily Day Care is one of the many quiet achievers in the child care sector, and is particularly appealing because of the flexibility it provides.

Traditional child care centres provide great care for children; however it is often the case that their opening hours cannot meet the needs of all families. Family Day Care reflects the circumstances of the family, opening up a range of options for families needing care for their children.

Family Day Care provides care for children from birth to 16 years, with some providers being able to care for children overnight. This is particularly helpful for shift workers.

This type of care is often not fully understood, largely because the care is provided in the home of the carer.

For more information on the range of child care options available in the community, contact the Light Electorate Office on 8522 2878.

Sian Stirling and April Webber of GP Incorporated

Superintendent Ferdi Pit

KEEPING THE COMMUNITY SAFE

4 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 6, July 2008

Light MP Tony Piccolo has warned that he will ask state parliament to pass new laws to protect franchisees from predatory franchisor behaviour if the Federal Government fails to act.

An Economic and Finance Committee report tabled in State Parliament has recommended to the Federal Government that it consider changes to the Franchising Code of Conduct to protect “mum and dad” franchisees from predatory business behaviour and increase competition and efficiency in the franchise industry.

Mr Piccolo who initiated the inquiry into franchising, said the committee received numerous written submissions and oral evidence from franchisees who detailed their allegations of bullying and intimidatory conduct from rogue franchisors.

Mr Piccolo said the committee’s recommendations would not only protect mums and dads investing in franchises, but also improve transparency in the industry.

“The recommendations will not only lead to fairer business practices, but also improve competition and efficiency in the industry” stressed Mr Piccolo.

“Proposed changes to the disclosure rules will make the industry more transparent and accountable” said Mr Piccolo.

Mr Piccolo stressed that the suggested changes to the code would be very simple and not costly for the industry to implement.

“Those franchisors that act ethically and have the long term wellbeing of the industry at heart will have no difficulties with the changes recommended” said Mr Piccolo.

Mr Piccolo said that if implemented, the changes would soon weed out the predators in the industry and those who have scant regard for the wellbeing of their franchisees.

“The proposed changes would make ‘churning’ in the industry more difficult“. The Committee received a great deal of evidence of widespread ‘abuse of power’ by franchisors forcing novice franchisors to sell earlier through financial pressure.

State Parliament has recently passed a new law that seeks to control the unlawful activities of outlaw bikie gangs in South Australia.

In moving the new law in parliament the Attorney-General the Hon Michael Atkinson said outlaw motorcycle gangs remain prominent within the criminal class of South Australia and continue to expand.

Mr Atkinson told parliament SA Police intelligence indicates that outlaw motorcycle gang members are involved in many and continuing criminal activities.

Mr Atkinson said although comprising a small proportion of the state’s population, outlaw motorcycle gang members and associates commit a disproportionate number of serious crimes.

“Outlaw motorcycle gang crime affects all levels of society,” he said

Mr Atkinson warned that outlaw motorcycle gangs are increasingly infiltrating legitimate industries and using professionals to insulate their criminal activity from law enforcement.

Mr Atkinson told parliament that the new laws grant unprecedented powers to the police and the Attorney-General to combat serious and organised crime.

“The government is unrepentant about this,” he said

“However, the laws make it clear that it is not the intention of parliament that the powers of the legislation be used in a manner that would diminish the freedom of people in this state to participate in advocacy, protest, dissent or industrial action.”

“The new laws require the Attorney-General to appoint a retired judicial officer to conduct an annual review on whether the powers under the legislation have been used appropriately, having regard to the objects of the act.”

“The Attorney-General must table a copy of the review report in both houses of parliament.”

“The Attorney -General has to review the operation and effectiveness of the legislation after five years, to prepare a report based on this review, and to table a copy of the report in both Houses of Parliament.”

The Act provides that the legislation will expire 10 years after the date on which it comes into operation.

“The changes we are recommending are strongly supported by leading academics, who have researched franchising extensively and have a sound and independent view of its strengths and weaknesses “

“The recommendations seek to provide potential franchisees the same level of information and legal protection afforded to every investor in the stock market” said Mr Piccolo.

“The recommendations are not about protecting those who make unsound business decisions, but rather those who have been misled and are powerless to take action to seek redress”

“The deficiencies are hampering competition in the industry and causing a great of hardship to many franchisees” Mr Piccolo said.

Mr Piccolo said if there is no federal action within 12 months, the State Parliament should revisit this matter and look at whether we (as a state) should take on the recommendations ourselves.

“While I am hopeful that the federal government will act, if it does not then I do not think this is an area of activity that we can leave unlegislated.” said Mr Piccolo.

Mr Piccolo said franchising is the fastest growing small business format.

“It is for this reason that it is important to ensure that we have the legislative framework to make sure that it operates correctly.”

Mr Piccolo said in regards to justice, the stories we heard during the enquiry clearly indicated that regulation has not kept up with some of the shonky practices of those rogues and predators that have entered the industry.

“To put it in perspective, mum and dad franchisees have less protection from the harsh and oppressive behaviour of their franchisors than many workers do under the industrial laws.”

During the debate Mr Piccolo praised the courage of local franchisees whose evidence gave rise to the inquiry.

The franchise enquiry report received bi-partisan support.

FRANCHISE FURY: CALL FOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO ACT!

New Bike Laws Pass Parliament

Tony Piccolo MP speaking in State Parliament

HOT ISSUES

Attorney-General Michael Atkinson

Edition 6, July 2008 | ENLIGHTENED | 5

Saving Power in the Home

Saving electricity around your home not only saves money but also helps create a sustainable environment, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions created when generating electricity using fossil fuels. There are many small, simple things that can be done, while other ways of saving electricity are larger. No matter how you choose to save electricity around your home, every little bit helps.

Appliances:There are many simple ways to save electricity through your use of appliances around your home.

Turn off appliances when •you are not using themConsider the Energy Star •Rating when buying a new applianceBuy the right sized appliance, •keeping in mind that larger appliance use more electricityDry clothes on a line or •rack rather than using a clothes dryerEnsure that seals on fridges •and freezers are clean and in good condition, to prevent them from working overtime to keep cool.

Lighting:A major source of electricity consumption in homes is lighting, yet there are many quick and easy ways to save on lighting in your home.

Switch off lights when you •are not in the roomAs your light bulbs run out, •replace them with long-life, energy-efficient bulbsUse the lowest wattage •bulbs that will provide adequate lightingUse natural lighting as much •as possible.

Green Power:Green Power is electricity that is not generated using non-renewable fossil fuels but by generating electricity using renewable sources, including the sun, water and wind.

For around $1 to $5 extra per week you can choose to have Green Power supplied to your home. You can choose how much Green Power you wish to purchase and this purchase is added to the grid ensuring that your electricity supplier buys and invests in Green Power.

Larry Thinks Globally

Local man Larry Cavallaro has thought globally, and acted locally in the design of his new house in Gawler East.

Larry’s house is a standard modern home that has had special priority placed on environmental concerns.

Larry said that he has installed 24 standard solar panels on the roof of his house, the maximum number of panels allowed under the current rebate scheme.

“The electricity generated by these panels is sold to the grid” said Larry. In addition to these solar panels, Larry has also installed a solar hot water system.

Larry said it has been estimated that the house will have at least a neutral consumption of electricity.

“It is likely to produce slightly more electricity than is being consumed.”

This system works without batteries to store the energy, minimising Larry’s carbon footprint.

The system instead sells electricity to the grid during the day when the system isn’t being used, then at night the system can purchase electricity back from the grid.

To reduce the amount of energy used in cooling the house in the summer, Larry has made some smaller additions to the house, including sun reflective blinds on the windows, and verandas placed around the house.

“This minimises the heat reaching the house and reduces the need for extra air-conditioning“ said Larry.

Last year, Parliament’s Social Development Committee examined issues around the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and concluded that the advertising of junk food during children’s TV programming was inappropriate.

As chair of this Committee, I welcome the State Government’s recent call to junk food and drink advertisers to agree to voluntarily withdraw their advertisements in children’s television viewing times.

Research shows that one in five of our state’s four-year-olds is either overweight or obese. There are similar figures across Australia and these big companies need to take action and be part of the campaign to stop the escalating obesity crisis.

The Committee came to the conclusion that the evidence was there to warrant increased regulation over what can be advertised during children’s programming.

Parents have been telling us that they are very worried about the impact of these ads and the influence they have on children. Parents are particularly worried that these ads influence the way children spend their pocket money when they are unsupervised by adults.

A study conducted by the Health Department last year revealed that 84% of South Australians surveyed agreed that television advertisements for food such as chocolates and lollies and junk food prompted children to persuade their parents to purchase the food advertised.

I believe that the time has come to make children’s viewing time a “Junk Free Zone”.

For more information on the Social Development Committee please contact Ian Hunter on 8237 9100.

“Control Junk Food Ads” says MP

Roseworthy Residents Rally

Ongoing concerns, regarding the state of unsealed roads in the Light Regional Council area, resulted in the Roseworthy community coming together to discuss the state of Twartz Road.

Roseworthy residents recently met with Tony Piccolo and Rob Kemp, Corporate Manager, Infrastructure and Works to discuss possible solutions to residents’ concern about the poor condition of Twartz road.

A range of options were discussed including the possibility of bitumising the road with the financial support of affected residents.

The proposal decided upon after a lengthy discussion, was to recommend to the Light Regional Council that the optimum solution for residents would be for Council to re-sheet Twartz Rd from College Rd to Kangaroo Flat plus the northern end, including

the southern section of Cliff Rd to Gartrell St in the current roadworks program.

Tony Piccolo thanked those people who attended the meeting and acknowledged the value in people power in getting things done.

Light Regional Council considered this proposal at its March Council meeting and this proposal will now be considered as part of its budget process.

Tony Piccolo thanked Rob Kemp for his support and professionalism in dealing with this matter and also for the planned and structured approach that he is taking managing the road problem in the Light Regional Council.

The Light Regional Council has adopted a program of planned road maintenance which is available in the Light Electorate Office or by contacting the Light Regional Council. It sets out in detail what will be done to which roads and when.

Larry Cavallaro and his roof mounted solar panels

HOT ISSUES

Ian Hunter MLC with Evanston Gardens and Roseworthy Primary Schools

Action Now for the FUTUREMike Rann & Tony Piccolo

This year’s State Budget continues the government’s focus on taking action now for the future.

Our public transport system will undergo a revolution with tram extensions, rail electri�cation and extra buses for faster, cleaner and more ef�cient commuting.

We’re rebuilding our hospitals and schools, injecting funds and resources into our police and courts, and securing Adelaide’s water supply.

We’re putting in the infrastructure foundations for the future.

Mike Rann Premier of South Australia

Investing in our Justice System

This year’s budget provides $18 million to re-open the former Sturt Street court, providing two additional courtrooms in the District Court.

And the Of�ce of the Director of Public Prosecutions will receive an extra $7.5 million to deal with workload issues, including prosecutions resulting from the Mullighan Inquiry.

High tech crime �ghting has produced great results. We’re further increasing DNA testing and pathology services by injecting $8.4 million.

Our prison capcity is being increased, with $35 million making space in our corrections system for an extra 209 prisoners.

This year’s budget invests $96 million towards the $1.4 billion desalination plant and pipeline.

Once complete, the plant will supply 50 billion litres of quality drinking water for Adelaide.

And $80 million will be spent on wastewater treatment programmes, including:

Glenelg to parklands project bringing recycled water into Adelaide’s CBD.

Angle Vale extension to supply recycled water to more market gardeners.

Upgrading or expanding wastewater treatment plants at Christies Beach, Aldinga and Glenelg.

Securing Adelaide’s Water Supply

The Rann Government is making sure our courts, police and prisons have the equipment and infrastructure to do their jobs.

GawlerElectri�ed

Outer HarborElectri�ed

O-Bahn BuswayInterchange upgrades

GrangeElectri�ed

GlenelgTramline

West LakesTramline

EntertainmentCentreTramline

NoarlungaElectri�ed

BelairRe-sleepered

SemaphoreTramline

Port AdelaideTramline

Adelaide’s PassengerTransport Network

The metropolitan rail network will be electri�ed, from Noarlunga in the south to Outer Harbor and Gawler in the north.

The successful tram extension to North Tce will be continued even further, providing trams to the Entertainment Centre, Footy Park, Pt Adelaide and Semaphore.

The Government’s providing 80 extra buses which will provide up to 9 million extra passenger journeys over the next four years. And the O-Bahn interchanges will

be upgraded to make boarding the bus quicker.

We’ve already delivered the Bakewell underpass, and the Port River Bridges and South Road/Anzac Highway underpass are nearing completion.

Now we’re investing $125 million in the AusLink network over the next 4 years to upgrade roads, including further improvements to Adelaide’s north-south road corridor.

Transport Revolution

Your Local MP

Mike Rann &

Electrified train lines to Noarlunga, Gawler and Outer Harbor.

New tram lines to Port Adelaide, Semaphore and Footy Park.

80 new buses and upgraded O-Bahn interchanges.

We’re Delivering:

Action Now for the FUTUREBudget 2008

Electric

TRAINS

MoreBUSES

The Rann Government is building a better transport system through a $2 billion investment in infrastructure.

ExtendingTRAMS

premier.sa.gov.au

Tony Piccolo

Children will bene�t from the Government’s $216 million Education Works program, the most signi�cant school rebuilding program in decades. More than $70 million has been provided over 2008-09 for modern new school buildings across the state.

This year’s budget also includes new funding to continue the successful school retention program and continued funding to support the Government’s 10 new trade schools. Kids staying in school and learning a trade is great for their future.

The Rann Government knows that investing in the equipment and the infrastructure for a child’s education is really important. That’s why spending per student has increased by 52% under Labor.

Payroll Tax Relief from 1 July 2008

Tax-free threshold increased from $504,000 to $552,000

Payroll tax rate cut from 5.25% to 5%

Harmonisation reforms

Payroll Tax Relief from 1 July 2009

Tax-free threshold increased from $552,000 to $600,000

Payroll tax rate cut from 5% to 4.95%

Will result in $136 million in tax savings over

3 years

$70 million to Build Better Schools $4000 First Home

Bonus GrantThe Rann Government is providing signi�cant help to �rst home buyers, with a new $4,000 bonus grant.

It will be available for �rst home purchases valued up to $400,000 before phasing out for purchases valued between $400,000 and $450,000.

This is in addition to the existing $7,000 �rst home-owner grant, and will apply for contracts

entered into on or after 5 June 2008.

The Rann Government is also making it easier to build or renovate your home, by speeding up planning approvals - in most cases it will only take 4 weeks.

And minor matters, such as small sheds and pergolas, will be removed from the planning processs altogether or provided with faster approval processes.

This years budget helps families buy their first home.

Health

$357 million for an extra 50,000 patient visits

$26 million for more ambulances and equipment

$333 million over 4 years towards Flinders, Lyell McEwin and QEH

Sport

$100 million to redevelop Footy Park

$1.5 million for a permanent replay screen at Hindmarsh Stadium

Children inState Care

$142 million to care for more children

$15 million for early intervention and home visiting services

$4.6 million to attract and retain carers

Action Now for the FUTUREMike Rann & Tony Piccolo

This year’s State Budget continues the government’s focus on taking action now for the future.

Our public transport system will undergo a revolution with tram extensions, rail electri�cation and extra buses for faster, cleaner and more ef�cient commuting.

We’re rebuilding our hospitals and schools, injecting funds and resources into our police and courts, and securing Adelaide’s water supply.

We’re putting in the infrastructure foundations for the future.

Mike Rann Premier of South Australia

Investing in our Justice System

This year’s budget provides $18 million to re-open the former Sturt Street court, providing two additional courtrooms in the District Court.

And the Of�ce of the Director of Public Prosecutions will receive an extra $7.5 million to deal with workload issues, including prosecutions resulting from the Mullighan Inquiry.

High tech crime �ghting has produced great results. We’re further increasing DNA testing and pathology services by injecting $8.4 million.

Our prison capcity is being increased, with $35 million making space in our corrections system for an extra 209 prisoners.

This year’s budget invests $96 million towards the $1.4 billion desalination plant and pipeline.

Once complete, the plant will supply 50 billion litres of quality drinking water for Adelaide.

And $80 million will be spent on wastewater treatment programmes, including:

Glenelg to parklands project bringing recycled water into Adelaide’s CBD.

Angle Vale extension to supply recycled water to more market gardeners.

Upgrading or expanding wastewater treatment plants at Christies Beach, Aldinga and Glenelg.

Securing Adelaide’s Water Supply

The Rann Government is making sure our courts, police and prisons have the equipment and infrastructure to do their jobs.

GawlerElectri�ed

Outer HarborElectri�ed

O-Bahn BuswayInterchange upgrades

GrangeElectri�ed

GlenelgTramline

West LakesTramline

EntertainmentCentreTramline

NoarlungaElectri�ed

BelairRe-sleepered

SemaphoreTramline

Port AdelaideTramline

Adelaide’s PassengerTransport Network

The metropolitan rail network will be electri�ed, from Noarlunga in the south to Outer Harbor and Gawler in the north.

The successful tram extension to North Tce will be continued even further, providing trams to the Entertainment Centre, Footy Park, Pt Adelaide and Semaphore.

The Government’s providing 80 extra buses which will provide up to 9 million extra passenger journeys over the next four years. And the O-Bahn interchanges will

be upgraded to make boarding the bus quicker.

We’ve already delivered the Bakewell underpass, and the Port River Bridges and South Road/Anzac Highway underpass are nearing completion.

Now we’re investing $125 million in the AusLink network over the next 4 years to upgrade roads, including further improvements to Adelaide’s north-south road corridor.

Transport Revolution

Your Local MP

Mike Rann &

Electrified train lines to Noarlunga, Gawler and Outer Harbor.

New tram lines to Port Adelaide, Semaphore and Footy Park.

80 new buses and upgraded O-Bahn interchanges.

We’re Delivering:

Action Now for the FUTUREBudget 2008

Electric

TRAINS

MoreBUSES

The Rann Government is building a better transport system through a $2 billion investment in infrastructure.

ExtendingTRAMS

premier.sa.gov.au

Tony Piccolo

Children will bene�t from the Government’s $216 million Education Works program, the most signi�cant school rebuilding program in decades. More than $70 million has been provided over 2008-09 for modern new school buildings across the state.

This year’s budget also includes new funding to continue the successful school retention program and continued funding to support the Government’s 10 new trade schools. Kids staying in school and learning a trade is great for their future.

The Rann Government knows that investing in the equipment and the infrastructure for a child’s education is really important. That’s why spending per student has increased by 52% under Labor.

Payroll Tax Relief from 1 July 2008

Tax-free threshold increased from $504,000 to $552,000

Payroll tax rate cut from 5.25% to 5%

Harmonisation reforms

Payroll Tax Relief from 1 July 2009

Tax-free threshold increased from $552,000 to $600,000

Payroll tax rate cut from 5% to 4.95%

Will result in $136 million in tax savings over

3 years

$70 million to Build Better Schools $4000 First Home

Bonus GrantThe Rann Government is providing signi�cant help to �rst home buyers, with a new $4,000 bonus grant.

It will be available for �rst home purchases valued up to $400,000 before phasing out for purchases valued between $400,000 and $450,000.

This is in addition to the existing $7,000 �rst home-owner grant, and will apply for contracts

entered into on or after 5 June 2008.

The Rann Government is also making it easier to build or renovate your home, by speeding up planning approvals - in most cases it will only take 4 weeks.

And minor matters, such as small sheds and pergolas, will be removed from the planning processs altogether or provided with faster approval processes.

This years budget helps families buy their first home.

Health

$357 million for an extra 50,000 patient visits

$26 million for more ambulances and equipment

$333 million over 4 years towards Flinders, Lyell McEwin and QEH

Sport

$100 million to redevelop Footy Park

$1.5 million for a permanent replay screen at Hindmarsh Stadium

Children inState Care

$142 million to care for more children

$15 million for early intervention and home visiting services

$4.6 million to attract and retain carers

8 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 6, July 2008

Women of StrengthWomen of Strength is an active community group bringing together women from all over the community with the aim of addressing issues and concerns specifically relating to women.

The group was established seven years ago and hold regular meetings throughout the year.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said this year they plan to take on the challenge of raising money to support Zonta in the purchase of Birthing Kits for women overseas.

“These Kits cost around $2 each and are sent overseas to provide a clean site for women during childbirth.”

“With 530,000 women worldwide dying during pregnancy or

childbirth, this is often a cause that many women identify with.”

The Women of Strength Program for 2008 is now available and is sure to provide a great opportunity for women in the community to come together.

For more information or a copy of the program, please contact Rhonda Smedley on 0413 476 557.

Caring For CarersThe Northern Carers Network have officially opened their new One Stop Shop in Gawler.

The new office is located in the Gawler Sport and Community Centre and is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9am until 5pm.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said the Northern Carers Network is a local carer support organisation, providing a range of services to carers in the Gawler, Salisbury, Playford and Tea Tree Gully communities.

The services provided by the Network include:

• One-on-onecounselling• Supportandadvocacy• Shorteducationalcourses• OutingsandPamperDays,

giving carers a break and an opportunity to meet other carers, and

• Respite.

They also have a Young Carers Program, providing support to young people

For more information on the Northern Carers Network contact their Head Office on 8284 0388 or the Gawler One Stop Shop on Tuesdays and Thursdays on 8522 1909.

A Home For VolunteersThe Gawler Volunteer Resource Centre (VRC) is the ‘one stop shop’ for all volunteers, those looking to volunteer, as well as organisations in and around Gawler.

Located within the Gawler Sport and Community Centre, the VRC provides a range of free services for volunteers, including:• meetingrooms• fax,scanningandlow

cost photocopying• computerandinternetaccess• referralserviceforthose

looking to volunteer• assistancewithletter

writing, newsletter design and grant applications

• informationontraining, safety, management and legal requirements.

Open 9am-5pm weekdays, the VRC is run by a team of volunteers, and as Sheila Willox, Volunteer Coordinator at the Centre, points out - who better to help coordinate and sell volunteering in the community than volunteers themselves?

Sheila says the staff at the Centre help to determine what volunteers and organisations need and given the specific and local nature of the Centre, they are able to react quickly to the area’s needs.

“There are many advantages to volunteering in the community” said Sheila.

Sheila echoes the belief of so many volunteers and coordinators that through involving people and getting them to contribute to their local community, “volunteering is wellness.”

Sheila said volunteering also provides a great opportunity for many of those working with the VRC wishing to move on to paid work or study in their particular area.

“Many different volunteers come through the VRC each day, ranging from traditional volunteers to those volunteering as part of Centrelink commitments, and students wishing to gain practical experience by volunteering in

their holidays” said Sheila.

“Those with little experience and who are perhaps hesitant to volunteer are able to be mentored by more experienced volunteers through the VRC.”

For those that do not have the time to volunteer on a regular basis, the VRC can help.

The Centre has a ‘Special Projects’ program which places volunteers to help with community events, for example the recent Tour Down Under.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said the VRC also helps organisations to find volunteers.

“ The Centre acts as a free referral service for these organisations and encourages all organisations in need of volunteers to register with them.”

“This referral service works particularly well through the VRC because of their method of placing volunteers.”

Mr Piccolo said that a State Government grant was used to establish the Centre, in conjunction with the Gawler Council.

“ The Gawler VRC is now used as a model to establish other centres across South Australia”

The VRC is keen to hear from people able to volunteer and bring their experience and skills to a range of areas, including office work, child care, aged care, the environment, and the Special Projects program.

Sheila is a Winner In 2007, Sheila Willox was recognised as one of the SA Great Regional Award Winners for her dedication and commitment to volunteering and the Volunteer Resource Centre in Gawler.

Sheila was “blown away” by receiving the award, which she saw as a “wonderful promotion for the Centre.”

Mr Piccolo said Sheila’s passion for volunteering in Gawler is evident through the activities she organises through the VRC.

“She was instrumental in establishing a volunteer program and the VRC in Gawler. “

“Once that was up and running, she began to set up the effective Graffiti Program, through which a team of volunteers remove graffiti from around the Gawler area. “

Sheila also understands the time and effort put in by volunteers, and planned a Christmas event for over 1,000 local volunteers at the Gawler Cinema.Colleen Moyne and Sheila Willox

Zion Hall, Gawler. RSVP by Friday 15 August. Tea, Coffee and light refreshments provided.Why make birthing kits?

The United Nations (WHO) estimated in 1996 that 585,000 women died annually in childbirth. Developing countries accounted for 99% of these deaths. For every woman who dies in childbirth, probably 30 incur injuries and infections - many of which are often painful, disabling, embarrassing and lifelong.

Ways recommended to help reduce these statistics are: 1. preventing unwanted pregnancies 2. improving antenatal care 3. improving capacity for dealing with obstetric complications 4. providing clean birthing conditions

ZONTA BIRTHING KITS provide for a clean birth that may decrease the risk of death from infection and bleeding.

For Further information Contact: Maggi Gregory on mobile: 0407 391 344

Zonta Club of GawlerBirthing Kit Assembly DaySaturday 23 August, 1- 4pm

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY

Volunteers Birthday party

Edition 6, July 2008 | ENLIGHTENED | 9

Light Women Honoured

The Season for Service Clubs

Four women in the Light electorate have been included in the inaugural Women’s Honour roll, with one a finalist for the Women of the Year award.

The Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo who attended the award ceremony said the women had been recognised for their enormous contribution to their respective communities.

Cr Lynette Reichstein of Freeling, Susanne Pengilly of Roseworthy, Gawler East resident Michelle Cockshell and Sandra Klement of Wasleys, have had their contribution to voluntary work acknowledged through these awards.

Mr Piccolo said that Michelle Cockshell, was the backbone of the Gawler Chapter of Operation Flinders’ fundraising activities in Gawler and was a finalist for the Women of the Year award.

Each year the Chapter raises between $20,000 and $30,000 which is a significant achievement for a smaller community.

Mr Piccolo said in this role Sandra takes her responsibility and care as a community member very seriously and provided service well beyond the call of duty.

“She also does around 25 hours per week as a volunteer with the St John Ambulance Service and

also is an active volunteer with the local bowls club.”

“Sandra’s commitment and care for her community and the individuals within it, is both valued by and of great value to the Wasleys community.” he said.

Mr Piccolo said Michelle is inspirational in the self-less and quiet way she goes about ensuring a community event runs every year with great success.

“Michelle’s strength is in the quiet, tireless and consistent way she goes about ensuring a major community event happens every year to the benefit of both the community and the people for whom the fundraising is intended.” said Mr Piccolo.

Susan Pengilly is involved in a number of community groups including the Roseworthy Tennis Club, the Roseworthy Netball Club and is an active member of the local primary school community. In addition, Susanne is currently a member of the Roseworthy CFS as a fire fighter.

Mr Piccolo said Susanne is inspirational as she is an “all round” contributor who works on behalf of all members of her community.

“Susanne’s skills in communication, excellence as a team member

and her commitment to her local and wider community means her volunteer roles have had a significant impact on the community.” he said.

Mr Piccolo said Cr Lynette Reichstein in addition to her role on the Light Regional Council is involved in a huge number of community groups.

“Lynette inspires other women with her energy and enthusiasm in undertaking such a broad range of community roles.”

“Lynette not only accepts leadership roles she is also there for the hands on work.” he said.

“Lynette accepts volunteer roles that often go unfilled in smaller communities.”

“She is committed and caring of her community and is a strong advocate for it and individuals within it.”

Sandra Klement has worked as a paid employee in the Wasleys Post Office for the past 13 years.

The Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo has praised the work of local service clubs in a speech he delivered to parliament recently.

Mr Piccolo told parliament that our communities are enriched by the contribution made by volunteer groups involved in sport, the churches, groups who look after the environment and heritage, those who offer welfare support and recreation to seniors.

In his speech, Mr Piccolo focussed on the particular contribution made by service clubs.

“In my electorate we are fortunate to have many service clubs.”

“Over the next month or so there will be a changing of the guard in our service clubs as they hold their handover meetings and dinners”

“ In my electorate, there is the Lions Club of Gawler, of which I am a member, the Rotary Club of Gawler, the Rotary Club of Gawler Light, the Kiwanis Club of Gawler, the Zonta International Gawler District Club, the Apex Club of Gawler, the Apex Club of Gawler Para, the South Australian Country Women’s Association, Gawler Branch, and the View Club of Gawler.”

Mr Piccolo said that some clubs

were finding it a challenge to recruit new member.

“Obviously, changes in the way we work in our communities, and a whole range of things, have meant that it has put pressure on people joining our volunteer groups, particularly the service clubs.”

Mr Piccolo stressed that despite the many challenges facing them, service clubs deliver great work to our local communities.

“They raise funds for a whole range of community projects; for

example, in my own electorate the Rotary clubs support the Gawler Life Foundation.”

“This foundation is set up as a last port of call for those in the community who are experiencing an emergency.”

“The local clubs have also been involved in upgrading the local recreation and community centre, jointly with the town of Gawler.”

“Service clubs also provide a range of breakfast programs in our local schools, and they also support a number of other

“I think that as a community we need to do some research into assessing why our service clubs are finding it harder to recruit new members and work out ways to encourage people to recruit new members, particularly the younger members of our community.”

“I wish our incoming 2008-09 presidents the best of luck and I indicate my support and willingness to work with them in my community for the betterment of our community.”

school projects.”

“The Kiwanis Club runs a range of programs to support and engage kids in our community”

Mr Piccolo told parliament that communities need to explore ways to better support our service clubs because, once these clubs close, their work will be lost.

“Not only the work they do but a whole range of social infrastructure in the way they build communities will also be lost”

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY

In-coming board of the Rotary Club of Gawler Light

Michelle Cockshell with Tony Piccolo MP

10 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 6, July 2008

Greg the Tool ManLocal man Greg Linke’s invention the ‘Garage Tidy’ is set to revolutionise shed storage.

Greg Linke had a problem. He had an untidy shed with tools strewn all over the shed and was having trouble finding the right tool for the right job.

A local family man, part-time inventor and part-time university student Greg had an idea to make more room in his shed with out having to throw away any of his precious tools.

Greg’s revolutionary shed storage device enables any handyman to turn a scrappy shed into a safe and productive work space in a matter of moments.

Greg said installation is as easy as one, two, three.

“The ‘GarageTidy’ is the tool every handy person needs in their shed” says Greg Linke.

Light MP Tony Piccolo said Greg’s

invention is simple and effective, and will maximise the space in any person’s tool shed.

“The ‘GarageTidy’ fits to any shed structural work in a few moments without the need for drilling into existing framework.”

“I am looking to go national with the ‘GarageTidy’, as local sales of the product in the Gawler Mitre 10, Nuriootpa Mitre 10 and Brighton Mitre 10 have gone gangbusters” said Greg.

“I am currently researching international markets and New Zealand is looking like a promising avenue for export of the ‘GarageTidy’.”

“While studying at university I was inspired to research the ‘GarageTidy’ concept” says Greg.

Greg’s invention has won a swag of prizes, accolades and prize money, which was used to establish the patent for his invention.

“The ‘GarageTidy’ is at a pivotal point were local sales are strong and I am in need of a national distributor to market the ‘GarageTidy’ interstate”

Greg said the ‘GarageTidy’ is a modular system with the capacity to store anything from bikes, shovels and shelving.

“It’s the perfect handyman tool to make you handier in the shed and is so versatile that there are models to fit C channel construction or the traditional timber rafter, fence railing or any other horizontal railing” said Greg.

People interested in supporting local businesses can purchase the ‘GarageTidy’ from the Gawler Mitre 10 or visit Greg’s website at www.garagetidy.net.au for more information about his amazing space saving invention.

“I wish Greg all the luck and success in the world with his space saving invention the ‘GarageTidy’ ”says Mr Piccolo.

Great Fruit, Fantastic Wine

Barossa Fruit Wines are to be enjoyed on the fruity side of life.

Operating out of Gawler along the Barossa Valley Highway, Barossa Fruit Wines offer a diverse and taste tantalising selection of fruit based wines.

The Pulford family have been making fruit wine for over 50 years and opened their cellar doors to the public in April 2001.

Barossa Fruit Wines achieves remarkable full flavour taste sensations without the need for grapes.

“Barossa Fruit Wines contains no grape or grape products and prides itself on sourcing its fruit from locally grown sources” said co-owner Janet Pulford.

On offer are light and fruity wines ready for any occasion to a darker, heavier fruit wine suitable with delicious duck or tasty turkey.

Mr Piccolo a supporter of local business said Barossa Fruit Wines excite the senses with their blend of intriguing fruit wines.

“Fruit wine has great potential to reach new and diverse markets of

people not in favour of the grape flavour. With a selection of award winning fruit wines, Barossa Fruit Wine strives for an excellent South Australian product to tantalise the taste buds”.

Janet said fruit wine is not common among the wine connoisseurs of the world but has been widely practised in earlier civilisations for medicinal purposes.

“Barossa Fruit Wines with their new 375 ml bottles and intriguing and exciting sensations for the pallate, I am sure they will be a success.” says Janet .

Currently Barossa Fruit Wines only sell from their cellar door or orders can be made from their website www.barossafruitwines.com.au

Barossa Fruit Wines are in the progress of sourcing alternative venues to sell there innovative wines.

For those of you seeking a new adventure and taste in wine, contact Barossa Fruit Wines on 8523 0238 or visit their cellar door outside of Gawler along the Barossa Valley Highway.

Apples are our Core Business‘She’s apples’ all right, when you visit this fresh fruit and veg store.

She’s Apples, owned by Trevor Williams and Mark Shillabeer has been operating from its purpose built store in Gawler since October 2005.

Trevor and Mark both have a commitment to their local community as well as providing produce of the highest standard.

Trevor said his family’s been part of the Gawler fruit and veg scene for a number of years.

“I learnt in my early years at Williams fruit and veg shop in Murray St.” he said

She’s Apples donates fresh fruit to a number of pre-schools and primary schools in the area. These include: Evanston Park Primary School, Trinity College Montessori Preschool, Zion Preschool, Elsie Ey Kindegarten and Gawler Primary School.

Mark said it’s this sort of community involvement that gives us a real thrill.

“She’s Apples proudly displays beautiful paintings by the schools which expresses the students thanks for the gift of fruit”

The involvement with students doesn’t end there.

She’s Apples offers fantastic school tours full of tasty treats and lots of great information.

Mark said the tour lasts for about half an hour and the children get the opportunity to taste fruit and veg, learn about the produce and get to see out the back where the behind the scenes work happens.

Mark said it is great to hear from the kids that they’ve never tried a particular fruit before and now they discover they just love it.

If your school is interested in doing a tour of She’s Apples please contact Trevor or Mark on 8522 4266.

Greg Linke and his ‘Garage Tidy’

FOCUS ON LOCAL BUSINESS

Jon Stevens of She’s Apples

He moved to Gawler Blocks in 1914 and resided there for a number of years in his early youth.

The school opened on 20 January 1908. Blanche Tims, a provisional teacher, taught at the school in 1908 and 1909.

In 1909 Robert Morgan was appointed head teacher and held that position until 1911.

One of the longest serving teachers was Joseph O’Loughlin, who was head teacher from 1923 until his retirement in 1944.

In 1923 the education department built the present school.

In 1951, 1961 and 1966 wooden prefab classrooms were added to the school as pupil numbers grew. Another wooden prefab classroom was added in 1974 when the nearby Gawler River School closed.

Mr Piccolo said the 1960s and 1970s saw a huge influx of Italian and Greek migrants to the area - including himself - and the school roll soon had names like Demertzis, Mammone, Sabattini, Varelias, Hondros, Markov, Manno, Miaolo and Tsalamangos added to it.

Mr Piccolo said in 1945, the Gawler Blocks Progress Association was formed, and it has done much for the benefit of the district.

Turning 100 years old is certainly a milestone worth celebrating, and Evanston Gardens Primary School is doing just that.

2008 marks the 100th year for the school, which opened as the Gawler Blocks Primary School in 1908.

On the 20th of February they kicked off what will be a yearlong celebration with their Centenary Launch. Throughout the year there will be a number of events, both for old scholars and those studying hard today.

As would be expected, the school has an immense character, stemming from its 100 years

as a central part of Gawler, and surrounding community. Just as any of the old scholars, past teachers, former principals, or anyone who has been involved with the school, and the stories they will tell you really show this fascinating character that the school holds.

At the launch, some of those that have had a great deal of involvement with the school, including Naomi Arnold, Phil Parker, Stan Coles and Colleen Mann all added that little extra flavour to the Centenary Launch with their stories and memories of the school.

If These Blocks Could SpeakLight MP Mr Tony Piccolo drew the centenary celebrations to the attention of state parliament recently.

Mr Piccolo told parliament that when one looks at the history of a local school one is looking into the history of the community around it.

Mr Piccolo said at the launch if you go through the enrolment book of the school you can trace the development and changes to Evanston Gardens and the surrounding community.

Until 1968 the school was known as Gawler Blocks primary school, reflecting the name of the area until that time.

Gawler Blocks was originally owned by Mr John Riggs in town sections of 630 acres.

Mr Piccolo said in parliament that a move to establish Gawler Blocks began with a meeting in Gawler on 28 May 1890 which formed a branch of the homestead league.

“On 24 June 1891 the league received word that the government had purchased the 630 acres as requested by the branch for working men’s blocks” said Mr Piccolo.

“On 21 June 1892 the blocks were allocated in various acreages,

“It was through the progress association as a young councillor that I met two local community stalwarts, the late Jack Cooper and Stan Coles” said Mr Piccolo.

In March 1946, the memorial hall (situated adjacent to the school) was built, with the land for this purpose given by Mr Hillier.

Mr Piccolo said the hall has been a focal point for social gatherings and meetings of various organisations of the district.

In 1951, the Gawler Women’s Agricultural Bureau was formed.

In 1980, the Glen Mann activity room was opened, with labour and funds to convert the existing shelter provided by the school council.

In 1981, the school principal’s residence became offices and staffroom.

Mr Piccolo said in 2004 when he was mayor, the Gawler council agreed to name an appropriate new road ‘Gawler Blocks Road’ in Evanston Gardens or Hillier to acknowledge the history of the area.

Mr Piccolo congratulated the local school community on their hard work and commitment to make the celebrations such a success and a focal point for the community, and in particular, the old scholars.

Edition 6, July 2008 | ENLIGHTENED | 11

with a maximum of 20 acres.”

“These blocks were intended as a means of a little extra income to the working man, by producing milk, butter, eggs and other products on their land.”

Mr Piccolo said at that time a labourer’s wage was not much more than 25 pence per week.

“There was no sick pay, no holiday pay and quite a bit of unemployment due to seasonal conditions”

“The majority of the early settlers in the area worked in Gawler in two large foundries owned by James Martin and the May brothers.”

The first houses in the area were somewhat basic, some being built of clay and straw.

The settlers in the area were soon to be known as ‘the blockers’.

The first move to establish any community life was taken in about 1905, when residents decided that a church and Sunday school was needed for the rapidly growing number of young folk in the area.

An approach was made to the Presbyterian Church in Gawler and services were started in a barn on Sam Hillier’s property. Mr Jabez Hillier gave a quarter of an acre of land on which to build the church, and in July 1907 the foundation stone of the Gawler Blocks church was laid.

The education department then rented the church for use as a day school.

Mr Piccolo said amongst the pioneer blockers were names such as Matz, Forby, Wiese, O’Toole, Turner, Emerson, Lucas and Risby, reflecting the British and German heritage of the earlier settlers.

“One of the best known local members of parliament for the area was the late Mr Jack Clark, a member of the Labor Party.”

2008 has been dubbed the Year of the Scout.

It’s been 100 years since Australia adopted Scouts. In 1857, following Lord Baden-Powell establishing the Scouts in the United Kingdom, the movement began in Australia.

This year the Scouts will celebrate their centenary through a range of events spread across the year,

Scouts Do It Allincluding Founders Day (22nd February), National Youth Week (5-13 April), Scarf Up for Scouting (5-13 April) and many more.

Joey Scout Leader, Penny Webb said “We have, as leaders, been encouraged to maintain stimulating and exciting programs for our youth members. Our group leader wants us to put the ‘WOW’ in Scouting as she puts it.”

“We have a group ceremony

coming up in the next few weeks in which we are celebrating 100 years of Scouting, we are aiming to re- create a 1912 scout meeting (with girls this time!) so it will be great fun and there will be a birthday cake too.”

Also in April the Scout Leader, “Sauce” has organised a district activity for 100 youth members.

It will be a mini Jamboree with plenty to keep everyone active for the 6 days.

There will be gliding, rock climbing, leather work and a host

of other activities held at the Scout activity centre “Roonka” on the Murray.

Tony said he “is very keen to support the roll of scouts and local scout groups as they offer

great opportunities to develop leadership life skills”.

In conjunction with their centenary, a range of commemorative coins went on sale on 1st February 2008.

CELEBRATING MILESTONES

Above Left: Naomi Arnold and Tony Piccolo MP at the Centenary LaunchAbove: Stan Coles and Phil Parker

Gawler Scout group

12 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 6, July 2008 [email protected] | www.cjtdesign.com.au |

The vibrant town of Gawler now has a book that pays homage to all its past and present local superstars that have helped to make the town a wonderful place to live.

‘Footprints’ is the brain child of the Gawler Council who came up with the concept to publish a book which is full of local legend.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said the book’s identities range from Paul Benz, a Paralympics Gold Champion to Rita Argent founder of the Gawler Care and Share Group.

“All are people who have contributed to the social vibrancy of Gawler.”

Nominations for the book were opened in 2007 as part of the Gawler Council’s celebration of 150 years of local government in Gawler.

Mayor Brian Sambell, who appears on page 58 of the book, said “Footprints is a great resource to keep the memories of the people of Gawler alive.”

Mr Piccolo says the book ’Footprints’ is a wonderful achievement.

“It is rich in local content and acts as a guide for generations to come to reflect upon the local legends of the town of Gawler that have helped to make Gawler the best of town and country.”

For your copy of ‘Footprints’ contact the Gawler Council on 8522 9277.

“I recommend you order a copy as its one of the most interesting reads you will have in a long while,” said Mr Piccolo.

Footprints of a great town

His dreams can’t be

squashedTrae Menzies is a young squash champion destined for greatness.

First impressions on meeting Trae, you get the feeling you are in the presence of a true champion.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said Trae is ranked second in South Australia for under thirteen’s.

“With his passion, dedication and enthusiasm for squash I believe Trae will go far in his sport” Mr Piccolo said.

“Trae has worked hard to get where he is in the world of competitive squash in South Australia and at such a young age he has a promising career ahead of him”

Preparation for Trae to make the South Australian Junior squash squad has begun and for Trae to excel and squash the competition he needs community support.

Any donations from the public would be warmly welcomed to assist Trae compete on a national level.

Please contact my office on 8522 2878 for more information on how you can contribute to Trae’s success.

Amara Seabrook is a 3rd year graduate medical student at Flinders University with a difference – she is a university trained opera singer.

However, throughout 2008 Amara will be participating in the Parallel Rural Community Curriculum (PRCC) program run by Flinders University to promote GP practice in rural areas.

Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo said while initially surprised at her background he was impressed with the maturity and empathy Amara brought to her new career.

Mr Piccolo said that the PRCC is a program that gives senior medical students a chance to work in a rural community.

“Through the program students are able to care for a patient from the time they walk through the door, through diagnosis and the completion of treatment.”

“This gives the students a patient focused aspect to their studies.”

Amara sees the PRCC as a “brilliant way for a senior medical student to get practical experience with patients and be involved in their ongoing care.”

Amara says that many patients spend extra time with the students, helping them to learn and making the program a valuable learning experience for them.

“The patients also enjoy this, as they get more time to discuss things with their doctor – an opportunity they do not normally get in a traditional consultation” said Amara.

The PRCC sees Amara spending one day a week in Angaston with the other PRCC students attending tutorials and one day a week consulting at Hyde and Partners under the supervision of Dr. Peter Jeffries.

Another half day is spent with a specialist or in the operating theatre at the Gawler Health Service.

Amara says the program structure provides a great range of experiences and a broad exposure to lots of different types of medicine.

Amara loves studying in Gawler and being involved in the local community, and says that she “will be very sad to leave at the end of the year!”

Amara tunes into gawler

Amara Seabrook checking her supervisor Peter Jeffries under the watchful eye of Rupert Thorne

Jim & Majory Lodge – 60th Wedding AnniversaryKeith & Barbara Hobbs – 60th Wedding Anniversary Dick & Joan Baxter – 60th Wedding Anniversary

Trae ManziesMeredith Chrome and Judy Gillett-Ferguson

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT

CELEBRATING ANNIVERSARIES