Last week Councillors took a bus tour of the region to get the best possible picture of budget proposals.

We were joined by the General Manager and other staff and travelled to Queenstown, Strahan, Zeehan and Rosebery to review these ahead of the next budget. The trip gave us all the opportunity to fully understand potential projects that have been put forward for next financial year. There were 17 public submissions and several proposals put forward by Councillors and Council staff for consideration as part of the process, so the job is to now start preparing the plan prior to the adoption of the budget in June. Thanks to everyone who took part in this process.

Tomorrow I will attend the 11am ANZAC Day service at Zeehan. ANZAC Day is an important event to remember and thank all those who have served and are still serving for our country. Thanks to the West Coast community and the RSLs across our region for ensuring that we continue to honour our servicemen and women. Lest we forget.

Yesterday was the official launch of the TasPorts $6.5 million upgrade to the Strahan Wharf and Cruise Terminal. Council was pleased to partner with TasPorts for this significant project with a contribution of $75,000 towards the streetscaping of the precinct, which will be complete in May.  TasPorts’ redevelopment will see the rebuilt wharf able to house cruise vessels, commercial fishing boats and other tourism operators. This is a welcome investment that will vastly improve these facilities and complements the vision laid out in the West Coast Community Plan 2025 for innovation in tourism and product development. Congratulations to all involved.

Phil Vickers

MAYOR