Port Report - Cr Jim Mason - 1 Sep 2019

I want to give a big shout out to the community for its overwhelming response to the Shared Trails Master Plan consultation period, which has just wrapped up.

We wanted to hear your ideas on how we can improve existing shared trails and make them more connected for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

The master plan is a great opportunity to improve the north and south connections on the Bellarine, and tap into cycle tourism by linking townships with tourism destinations like wineries.

The City received nearly 1,400 submissions and had around 5,000 visits to the interactive map, meaning people were keen to follow the conversation and continue the discussion.

A consultant will now sort through the suggestions, with a report due to council by the end of the year.

I had a great night attending the program launch of the North Bellarine Film Festival 2019 at the Potato Shed.

The festival kicks off from November 15-17 and will feature exclusive feature films and short films from around the world.

The Potato Shed and the Portarlington Neighbourhood House are hosting the festival, so head to www.geelongaustralia.com.au for more information on the program.

I recently donned some purple with my fellow councillors, the City’s executive leadership team and members of other organisations for ‘Wear It Purple Day’, in celebration of young people from the LGBTIQA+ community.

I’m proud to stand up and be counted for this community, as council continues to strive towards a more inclusive region.