Document Actions
Melville Plays Host to Quairading
Last Friday (October 8) the City of Melville played host to a visiting contingent from the Shire of Quairading, who came to share and compare experiences managing rural and metro areas.
City of Melville Mayor Russell Aubrey said it was an insightful visit which helped broaden Councils’ knowledge.
“During the visit, we explored the option of sharing resources – for instance, specialised Melville staff could assist in infrequent country problem areas – and discussed ideas around recycling redundant equipment and machinery," he said.
“It’s very important the City of Melville strengthens ties with other local governments within WA so we can help each other improve and learn, and this visit from the Shire of Quairading certainly helped us to do that.
“Metro and country local governments share a common bond yet we are very different in our infrastructure needs and the financial demands placed upon us and it is important we develop understanding of these differences as we seek funding from state and federal governments.
“For example, road infrastructure is a major cost to metropolitan local governments, but an even bigger burden on country shires with far fewer ratepayers and lengthy road connections.”
“I look forward to our continued friendship with Quairading and the possibilities it presents as well as the knowledge we can share into the future.”
As part of the visit, City of Melville staff and Elected Members took the group of nine visitors on a tour of the City’s hubs, including the Fiona Stanley Hospital, the new Kadidjiny Park and Point Walter Reserve.
Shire of Quairading Chief Executive Officer Graeme Fardon said regular visits were a valuable part of city and country partnerships to gain valuable insight into the issues facing rapidly developing cities and smaller rural communities.
“This visit highlighted the challenges faced by the City of Melville in planning and managing for the major infrastructure associated with the Fiona Stanley Hospital and its impact on the locality. The delegation also visited major works being undertaken at the Old Melville Primary School Site to transform it into a state-of-the-art public open space and community asset," he said.