Government-funded projects, road challenges including bottle necks along the Hume Freeway and enhancing access to health and community services were among topics at a meeting between council representatives and federal MPs.
Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell hosted a round table meeting with Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain, Mitchell Shire Council chief executive Brett Luxford and Mayor Fiona Stevens alongside Macedon Ranges Shire chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan and Mayor Annette Death.
Ms McBain was keen to gain insight into what issues both shires feel were the most pressing for their communities.
Mr Luxford said the councils appreciated the opportunity to meet with Ms McBain and Mr Mitchell.
He said projects such as the Cameron Lane interchange at Beveridge, Wallan’s Watson Street ramps and other road projects were discussed, as well as funding for Wallan’s Greenhill Reserve lower oval.
“In addition to discussing these projects, we engaged in fruitful conversations regarding Mitchell Shire’s other significant priorities, such as addressing a range of road challenges including the bottle necks along the Hume Freeway and enhancing access to local health and community services,” he said.
“The meeting was a success, with the minister demonstrating a clear understanding of the challenges out community faces.”
Mr Mitchell said it was a significant opportunity for the councils to address crucial issues and the unique needs of regional councils.
“I saw the minister’s visit as a great opportunity for our councils to discuss local issues directly with the minister. It is not often they have this chance to clarify what is unique to their local government area and the issues they face,” he said.
“The round table was a great opportunity for the local councils in McEwen to participate in open dialogue and work on collaborative partnership with the Federal Government to work towards common goals.
“I want to really thank Minister McBain’s proactive approach and commitment to addressing the needs of local government. As a former mayor herself she understands the importance of a strong relationship between all levels of government and how positive outcomes can flow from this.”
Representatives from the City of Whittlesea and Nillumbik Shire Council were invited to the roundtable but were unable to attend.
