Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan | Public figure

Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan

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25.01.2022 Nominate now for Citizen of the Year award! The City of Bunbury invites you to nominate an outstanding individual or group for one of this year’s City of Bunbury Citizen of the Year Awards. Each year two local citizens and one local community group/event will be eligible for the City of Bunbury Citizen of the Year Award which is broken up into the following three categories: - City of Bunbury Citizen of the Year Award - City of Bunbury Young Citizen of the Year Award ... - City of Bunbury Community Group or Community event of the Year Award If you know a local citizen or community group/event that has shown outstanding contribution to the local community, is a great role model and has inspiring qualities, has demonstrated leadership on a community project or has brought about a significant initiative which have enriched the community, then we want to hear from you. Please contact Katie Merwood to obtain a nomination form on [email protected] or 9792 7021 nominations close the 6th December 2019 See more

24.01.2022 We acknowledge the social and economic impact this pandemic has had on communities across the world and Bunbury has been no different. As elected members, management and staff it has been difficult to see our local people, services and industries impacted in such a manner. The friendly faces we interact with each day in some cases having their short-term future turned upside down as a result of this pandemic.... Tonight, in response to COVID-19 Council will formally acknowledge these hardships faced and ask the CEO to prepare the City’s formal Relief and Recovery Plan. Our community is doing it tough right now. The CEO has advised that he and the City Staff already have compiled a list of actions for inclusion into the City’s Relief and Recovery Plan which will include a number of immediate, short and long term future actions to deal with the economic and social challenges facing the City not only now but in the years to come. Measures will be taken to support the Bunbury community within the means available, notwithstanding those initiatives and support packages being established and provided by State and Federal government. As well as those measures that will be announced and actioned following tonight’s Council meeting, the following things have been put in place to date: Closing and prioritisation of public facilities in the interest of public safety; A full refund or deferment on all memberships and cancelled bookings at City properties and facilities; Closing of paid ticketed parking in Bunbury; Signage being placed at playgrounds and skate parks advising of closure; Flexible payment options for those debtors experiencing hardship; Shorter payment terms for creditors (a maximum of two weeks); Buy local and support community campaigns; A move to digital planning services platform to ensure these services can continue remotely; Increasing the City’s cleaning regime to ensure the city is kept as clean and hygienic as possible; Facilitating support for vulnerable groups within our community; Programs and facility activities going online; Donation of perishables and food items to local support services. These are uncertain times, things will be different as we head into the future. However I am confident that Bunbury will recover and this community’s spirit and togetherness will endure these challenging times. I implore everyone to take care of themselves and their families, look out for others in the community and continue to listen and follow the advice of the relevant authorities. Below is a list of other frequently asked questions that you may find beneficial at this time http://www.bunbury.wa.gov.au///FAQ%2030%20March%202020.pdf

24.01.2022 One of Robyn and my favourite walks is around the Leschenault Inlet. It is very popular judging by the increasing numbers of pedestrians, cyclists and joggers who enjoy the variation in views ranging from City Centre, new urban and hospitality constructions, to the Mangroves and the Inlet waters, which attract a variety of wildlife. The walk has been further enhanced by the City erecting directional signs around the Inlet. ... Why not join the long term regulars and experience the positive physical and mental effects this walk provides? #lovebunbury

23.01.2022 The City has been sharing a series of short videos showcasing how our local business owners have adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The stories I am hearing firsthand, along with those told in these videos, are inspiring. Our local business community should be proud in the resilience they have shown, the initiative they have seized and their commitment to continue providing a service to our residents and visitors. I know I am proud.... We still have a long way to go in our recovery, but I know our business community is working hard and I am confident Bunbury will be stronger than ever on the other side of this. To see more of these insightful videos, go to the City of Bunbury Facebook page.

22.01.2022 The generosity of Bunbury businesses and community was again evidenced by the outstanding fund raising efforts for the East coast Bushfire appeal last Friday and Saturday. I am advised close to $8K was donated by Bunbury businesses and more than $15K was raised in total. The extraordinary efforts of a small organising team and the supporting businesses, entertainers and volunteers that managed to get together and commit to the events in just over two weeks was sensational.... Big thanks to the community who gave so much to assist those directly impacted by these devastating bushfires #lovebunbury

18.01.2022 I felt it appropriate to make some observations on the Coronavirus or COVID-19. I join other community leaders calling for calm and urging our community to read the advice of the Federal and State Chief Medical Officers who have among other things described the potential health impacts of contracting the virus. The City team has implemented a number of additional housekeeping measures within our public areas including the South West Sports Centre and Public Libraries and i...s following State Government protocols which again is based around having a calm and measured response rather than an emotionally charged one. The most effective ways of avoiding the spread of this virus is effective hand washing with soap and water and if you are unwell self-isolating if you are experiencing any symptoms. On that note please continue to follow the advice of health authorities as more information comes to hand. #lovebunbury

17.01.2022 What a fitting new entry statement for our wonderful City on Wardandi Country! I was pretty chuffed to reveal the City's new digital billboard on Forrest Highway on Friday alongside Bunbury MLA Don Punch. Also with me here is Bunbury City Cr Tresslyn Smith, City project coordinator Colleen Smythe and Ernie Hill from Goomburrup Aboriginal Corporation, whose Elders helped with the billboard design.... Visitors to Bunbury will be greeted with ‘kaya’ or ‘hello’ in Noongar language, along with images showcasing our City's amazing attractions and upcoming events. More and more people are discovering that Bunbury has plenty to offer in terms of a place to visit, live or invest, but hopefully this new eye-catching billboard will help entice those few who are perhaps still unaware as they travel south. Thank you to Don and the State Government for matching the City's contribution of $200,000 for this project, which will also include further landscaping in the area. #lovebunbury

15.01.2022 Bunbury was absolutely buzzing this past weekend. Starting Friday evening with the opening of the highly successful South West Art Exhibition. On Saturday the Bunbury BMX club hosted a State round of racing attracting 400 competitors and hundreds of family members from as far away as Port Hedland. ... Saturday evening was the annual ECU graduation ceremony then Sunday 520 competitors including people in their 70’s participated in the Bunbury Triathlon hosted by the Bunbury Tri Club. Congratulations to each of the organisations and clubs who organised these events and thank you to the many volunteers assisting. #lovebunbury

15.01.2022 Last week, I had the pleasure of opening Bunbury's new accessible fishing platform alongside Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Bunbury MLA Don Punch. The platform allows public access to the Bunbury Outer Harbour for the first time since 2014 and provides yet another spot for keen fishers to cast a line in our wonderful waterways. This was a joint project between the City of Bunbury, Southern Ports Authority, South West Development Commission and South 32.... I would also like to acknowledge the hard work of the City’s Co Design Access Panel in helping to make this project a reality. Southern Ports Authority has been outstanding in working with our local community and those that have always wanted a fishing platform that is accessible to all. The regional asset has already been well received by the community and provides a further outdoor recreational activity in our coastal City. #lovebunbury

14.01.2022 The past six months have been challenging for our community, so it is more important than ever that the City moves forward with projects, creating jobs and building our City for future growth. Our community is resilient, and the City’s latest budget reflects this. The budget is based on a zero percent increase in rates as well as fees and charges, recognising the challenges faced by our community this year.... As the situation continues to evolve around the world, we cannot be complacent, but we must move forward as a City. I am confident our 2020/21 Budget provides for growth, jobs and our local economy and I am confident Bunbury will be stronger than ever come 30 June 2021.

13.01.2022 As I reflect at the end of each calendar year, one of the great privileges I enjoy as Mayor is meeting people in our community who do amazing things that contribute to making our home Bunbury the sensational place it is and are so proud of. They don’t seek recognition, they simply love what they do and get on with it. 2019 has been no different. Key to what motivates them is having a positive attitude irrespective of the situation. Long may their numbers swell. For those who rarely if ever enjoy such fulfillment, give it a go next year, you will be amazed at how much more enjoyable life can be simply by having a positive attitude. Wherever you reside have a happy and healthy Christmas and a successful fulfilling 2020. #LoveBunbury

13.01.2022 One of Robyn and my favourite walks is around the Leschenault Inlet. It is very popular judging by the increasing numbers of pedestrians, cyclists and joggers who enjoy the variation in views ranging from City Centre, new urban and hospitality constructions, to the Mangroves and the Inlet waters, which attract a variety of wildlife. The walk has been further enhanced by the City erecting directional signs around the Inlet. ... Why not join the long term regulars and experience the positive physical and mental effects this walk provides? #lovebunbury

12.01.2022 Calling all performers Are you passionate about performing, have a special talent or can sing the house down. We would like to hear from you! I am looking for groups/soloists with exceptional talent to perform at the 2020 Mayors Annual Variety Performance. ... Expressions of interest are now open for the Mayors Annual Variety Performance 2020 and if you would like to be considered to perform please submit a 2 minute video showing us your special talent. Expressions of interest close 29 November 2019 . Please submit all material through to Mayor’s Office: [email protected]

12.01.2022 Now is the time to pull together. The City of Bunbury has this week taken some immediate steps to support our community and complement those initiatives announced by the State and Federal governments. The CEO and Executive team will now be able to make timely and practical decisions in response to COVID-19, thanks to Council’s support of amending its delegation process last Tuesday.... Council, in close consultation with City staff, will continue to work through the long-term recovery plan to deal with the ongoing social and economic impacts on our City. This will be a staged approach as things are moving quickly and the situation changes every day. Immediate decisions now are to help protect our community while ensuring this is done responsibly given the City’s own financial position as a result of COVID-19. We don’t want to make hasty decisions and jeopardise our ability to fund and support those long-term recovery efforts. Stay safe, Gary.

11.01.2022 A reminder that there will be no Anzac Day services this year. We are encouraging our community to support the Driveways at Dawn project.

08.01.2022 These are unprecedented times with so much uncertainty as the situation rapidly evolves. The City will continue to prioritise the health and safety of our people and the wider community in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result of last night’s Federal Government advice, the decision has been made this morning to close the following City facilities as of midday today:... South West Sports Centre City of Bunbury Public Libraries Bunbury Regional Art Gallery Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre Bunbury Wildlife Park Bunbury Visitor Centre Staff at these facilities will continue to be transparent and provide information to their members and those impacted by the closures. Given the large number of casual staff employed at these facilities, provisions are being made to support these officers and re-deploy them to other areas of the City’s operations where possible. The City of Bunbury administration building remains open with strict hygiene and social distancing measures in place. From tomorrow Tuesday 24 March the City’s ticketed parking metres and PayStay monitoring will no longer be in operation. This measure has been considered for public health reasons to lessen the risk of possible transmission and to continue to support our business community however possible. Community safety officers will continue to monitor time limits and we implore those in the community to do the right thing and think about those with accessibility challenges when parking. Public toilet facilities that are considered low traffic will also be closed from tomorrow. This process will assist with the prioritisation of cleaning and sanitary items to higher traffic and essential public facilities. The City’s Emergency Coordination Team has been meeting regularly in order to plan and implement business continuity processes across the City’s operations. This is about identifying and safeguarding critical tasks to ensure these functions continue in the event of major disruptions to the City’s workforce. I have been inspired by what I am seeing within our community and I’m sure this community spirit will prevail. I encourage those who are able, to continue to support our local businesses by any means available. Let’s keep working together during this challenging time. #LoveBunbury

08.01.2022 Always a pleasure to highlight Bunbury businesses doing well and to congratulate start ups. According to Business News WA, Bunbury based Perkins Builders have recently been awarded two major construction contracts totaling $99 million. The owners of V&V Walsh have completed a major extension to their meat processing business which already employs more than 1000 people. Meanwhile new businesses Dough Chino and Corners on the Bay have recently opened, offering more choice and employment opportunities. Anthony Palumbo recently celebrated 10 years owning Benesse one of our high quality cafe strip choices. Cupcake lovers can look forward to a new shopfront business, Guardians of Happiness opening in the CBD in the near future. #lovebunbury

06.01.2022 A message from me to you, our community. I am supporting the Driveways at Dawn movement tomorrow in honour of Australia’s servicemen and women. I thank the entire Bunbury community for playing their part during these challenging times.... The care, compassion, innovation and community spirit on display has been inspiring. Please stay safe this long weekend. Lest we forget.

06.01.2022 This week is Mental Health Week and yesterday I had the honour of officially kicking off Pathways Southwest' week-long of activities. It is crucial that we continue to increase the mental wellbeing of those in our community I was privileged to also open Pathways' campaign in 2018 and as I reflect back on what has changed since then, it is my observation that awareness around mental health issues has improved.... This is possible thanks to a number of initiatives from organisations such as Pathways SouthWest, Doors Wide Open, headspace Bunbury and so many more, alongside support and facilities like the Step Up Step Down centre in Glen Iris through the State Government. All of us have an important role to play and I encourage everyone to reflect this week, look out for those around you and, perhaps most importantly, yourself. Thank you to organisations such as Pathways and CEO Steve Blackwell, for the vital work you continue to do. Take care and look out for one another.

04.01.2022 It was great to have Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union State Secretary Steve McCartney visit Bunbury yesterday and show his support for an advanced manufacturing hub in the South West. The Union is passionate about an advanced manufacturing hub being located in our City, resulting in the creation of hundreds of jobs and cementing Bunbury Geographe’s position in manufacturing supply chains. The establishment of such a hub in our City would substantially enhance economic ...activity in the Bunbury Geographe region, and ensure we are in a stronger position and not again beholden by events like COVID-19. That is why the Council in February supported contributing $10,000 to the South West Development Commission to undertake a feasibility study and business case for an advanced manufacturing hub in the South West It was also pleasing to hear Bunbury MLA Don Punch’s support for the project and his thoughts on underutilised industrial land in our City. I look forward to seeing the results of the feasibility study and business case, and remain excited about the potential of a manufacturing hub in our wonderful City.

02.01.2022 I recently asked the City’s Executive team how we as an organisation can assist with raising mental health awareness across our community. I was very pleased to be informed so far 40 of our staff have enrolled in a mental health first aid course with another 30 or so also wanting to participate in subsequent courses. One of the goals is for our staff to actively listen to workmates and others who are seeking help without actually asking for it. ... We also provide time out and suggest professional support to staff who are feeling vulnerable. Every organisation has people with some form of mental health challenge, we can only speculate the positive outcome if more of our community became aware of the sometimes overwhelming mental health challenges and more importantly the support that is available. #lovebunbury

02.01.2022 Fantastic news last week with Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Bunbury MLA Don Punch announcing $485,000 for a feasibility study into an advanced manufacturing hub in the South West. Conversations have been held around such a hub being located on underutilised land within our City, resulting in the creation of hundreds of jobs and reinforcing Bunbury Geographe’s position in manufacturing supply chains. The City Council in February supported contributing $1...0,000 to the study along with a business case, which is being spearheaded by the South West Development Commission. The concept has since attracted support from the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union and continues to gain momentum. An advanced manufacturing hub would tie into our Digital City strategy, securing jobs for the future as we adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape. I congratulate all who have been involved in this concept to date, generating industry and government support, and I wait in eager anticipation for the results of the study.