Port Report column by Cr Jim Mason – 1 August 2021

I think you’d agree that ‘walking the walk’ is a vital quality for councils to demonstrate.

The Greater Geelong Council is always listening and working hard to make positive change.

Sometimes we get it right and sometimes we can do better.

In terms of doing our bit against climate change, our Draft Climate Change Response Plan is how we’re walking the walk.

This proposed roadmap, which wraps community consultation in late August, offers a clear path forward to tackle the climate emergency and impacts on the region.

Our action plan boasts some ambitious targets, one of my favourites being that all City-managed operations will reach net zero emissions by 2025.

What better way to demonstrate council’s dedication to reducing the region’s carbon footprint than to lead by example and start with the organisation?

I look forward to hearing how readers responded, with their input to help shape the final plan.

The same goes for the Draft Portarlington Recreation Reserve Master Plan, which is open for feedback until early September at https://yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/

Council has budgeted $1.157 million over two years and thanks to insights from the community and stakeholders, we’re proposing some exciting upgrades.

A redevelopment of the main football/cricket pavilion, tennis and netball pavilion upgrades, improved trails and a potential community garden are all up for discussion.

The value of high-quality recreational reserves to exercise and connect with nature has been highlighted time and time again during the pandemic.

I can’t wait to see more community input into how this beloved reserve will be enhanced for future generations.