A General Manager's Perspective

Mr. Eddie L. McEachan

Presentation of the first 'State of the Shire' is a landmark occasion for local government of the area.

In 1991 Council officially embraced a new philosophy when it accepted that the planning which it did should embrace social and environmental issues, in addition to the infrastructure provision which it had concentrated on previously.

That decision proved to be in the forefront of what has become an international movement to a more holistic and communicative form of planning known as 'Local Agenda 21'.

Since then the Queensland State Government has legislated to have all local government planning schemes prepared in this manner and Council has participated in an international research program on 'Agenda 21'.

Incorporated in 'Local Agenda 21' is a belief that local government has a stewardship role to play on behalf of its community. This means that not only should Council look after its own assets, as shown on its balance sheet, it should also be concerned with looking after the community assets such as rivers and remnant vegetation as well as the health and wellbeing of residents.

This report is a first attempt to look at these community assets and assess their condition.

Having been closely associated with the 'Local Agenda 21 Program' since its inception, it gives me particular pleasure to see this document published as a vital link in the process.

Council has shown great foresight and courage in commissioning the report. There is no legislative requirement to do it, but again Council has shown leadership in pursuing what it believes is responsible management of its area.

The high level of community interest and input into the preparation of the report are clear indicators that it serves a need and Council is indebted to those who have contributed.

The final document is a credit to the staff who have worked on it and I thank and commend them for the great job they have done.