Campaspe Shire Council leaders toured the region to talk with residents and receive feedback on an important plan. Pictured are Deputy Mayor Jessica Mitchell, resident Ken McWhinney and Mayor Daniel Mackrell at Busy Bean Coffee, Echuca.
Photo by
Ryan Bellingham
The leaders of Campaspe Shire Council went on a caffeine-fuelled journey across the region for a series of community conversations.
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Over three days, Mayor Daniel Mackrell and Deputy Mayor Jessica Mitchell visited cafés, bakeries and business centres to speak with residents over a cuppa.
Cr Mackrell said it was an opportunity to share the Draft Council Wellbeing Plan 2025-29 with community members to receive feedback on it and other issues.
“The more feedback we can get, the better,” he said.
“That’s why we’ve been out to each of the towns. To get more information, more touchpoints, is really important for the council plan.”
The plan is integral to the council’s decision-making process over the next four years, laying out priorities and commitments to the community.
On Monday, July 28 community members in Echuca, Gunbower, Lockington and Rochester and were invited to local sessions.
Mayor Daniel Mackrell, resident John Toll and Deputy Mayor Jessica Mitchell at the Gunbower Workshop Cafe.
Photo by
Ryan Bellingham
Roads, floods and pools were some of the key issues raised on the day, and Cr Mitchell said the response from attendees had been strong.
“The people that have come out to have a chat to us have been really great and definitely passionate and committed to seeing stuff happen in their communities,” she said.
“I think the real benefit from today has been inviting people to take the plan back to their planning and development committees and get some deeper insights and feedback on it.”
Tourism opportunities and council representation were raised during sessions in Rusworth, Colbinabbin and Toolleen on Friday, July 25.
Further sessions were held in Tongala, Kyabram and Stanhope on Tuesday, July 29.
Cr Mackrell said the initiative showed the council was willing to listen and respond to all constructive feedback from community members.
“We took a lot on board, and that’ll filter back through the organisation,” he said.
“We actually took certain requests, and they will be actioned upon as required as well, which is excellent — real feedback from real issues.”
The councillors said they were also asked to join community events and encouraged residents to contact the council with invitations.
For community members who missed out on the sessions, the council plan will be open for feedback until Friday, August 22.
Cr Mackrell encouraged residents to reach out and have their say on the plan before it was too late.
“We’re only a phone call or email away, but it’s about being proactive in both ways, for them and us,” he said.
“It’s a two-way street. If you don’t come to us, we don’t know the issues. But our community and our councillors, we want to connect.”
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