Happy Holidays!

I will be away in NSW during the Christmas period, visiting family and enjoying the Blue Mountains.

I am looking forward to learning more and being involved with all aspects of the Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, and all the people who live here, in the New Year.

Happy and safe holidays to everyone

cheers,
Sophia

Documenting our community

Miriam and Andrew Yip from Environmental & Science Media have just completed their 3 minutes introductory video on Sustainable Communities SA. The video features Beth Mylius talking about Sustainable Communities, with footage from the Maylands/Beulah Park Community Group, Essential Edibles, and Nikki's Garden (one of the Sustainable Communities Backyard Community Gardening Groups) with guest appearances from Steven Marshall MP (Norwood) and Evonne Moore, previous Councillor for Maylands ward. Music provided by yours truly.

Video is here

Music for people

I have had the pleasure of being able to perform my music for some very special occasions this week.

On Monday 6th December I played my saxophone for the ladies of Noi Donne in the Community Rooms of the Payneham Library for their final session of the year, and the next morning I took along my flute for the ladies and gentlemen of Amicizia and played Christmas songs, accompanying some enthusiastic singing!

Noi Donne and Amicizia are just two of the programs run by the Co-ordinating Italian Committee or CIC. I joined as a volunteer with CIC a couple of months ago, and I am finding that I am loving being involved with this organisation that does so much for the elderly and socially disadvantaged people in our community. They have cuore - heart.

I am also playing some jazz flute this evening for the Adelaide premiere of Design for Life, the documentary of The Food Forest, the world class permaculture farm and education centre in Gawler, SA.

At the launch of the wonderful mural by local artist Sebastian Humphreys at the Norwood Pool on Saturday 4th, music was provided by two young saxophone players. They sounded great, and certainly added to the occasion.

Music makes people feel good. Music helps people feel connected. Music is a powerful and often under-estimated part of our community health.

I'll be encouraging more opportunities for community music making and enjoyment during my term on Council, and long after, I expect!

Essential Edibles

I attended the Essential Edibles urban food swap on Sunday 5th December. Essential Edibles started up last September and takes place on the first Sunday of every month from 9am-11am at Joslin Reserve, between 3rd and 4th Avenues in Joslin.
You don't need to bring any produce to swap - just bring yourself and share what you can! In my case, I shared my music. Miriam and Andrew Yip from Environmental & Science Media were there filming the occasion, and Steven Marshall MP, who is a keen supporter of this community initiative, was also there chatting to folks.

Lots of good photos here on the Sustainable Communities SA website.

Busy times

I would like to maintain this blog as a platform for communicating to people, especially those in my local area who I am representing.
The blog will focus on policy but may include some of my personal views!
I hope there may be some reciprocal interaction via the comments also.

Since being elected to Council on 13th November 2010, and being sworn in on 22nd November, things have very busy! I will write in more detail about some of what has been going on - but right now I have end-of-year gatherings to attend, and Council meetings to prepare for!

I will be attending the Launch of the new Mural at Norwood Swimming Centre this evening, from 5.30pm. It is open to the public, with live entertainment I believe, so come on down - it's a great day for being at the pool!

Congratulations to my fellow Councillors

Now that a few days have passed and I am getting my breath back, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my congratulations to all my colleagues on the NPSP Council, and my sincere thanks to every candidate who ran in the election. Without people willing to nominate and give it a go, our democracy is meaningless.

As a Councillor, I will be involved with the entire Norwood Payneham & St Peters city, but I will be the particular representative for the residents and businesses of my ward, along with my fellow ward councillors Vincent Tarzia and Connie Granozio. Please feel free to talk to myself, or Vincent or Connie, about anything to do with your neighbourhood. We are here to be a bridge between the people and the Council, to be your voice.

I would like to extend my congratulations to the Mayor, Robert Bria. We will be getting to know each other very well over the next four years, and working closely together. Mr Bria has suggested the creation of a new public space on the Parade and increased funding for public art, which I am very supportive of.
The Council has already started some commendable sustainability and water-harvesting initiatives, particularly with the Dunstone Grove/Linde Reserve redevelopment. I hope that I may be able to contribute to and work with the Mayor and Council in improving the sustainability practices and infrastructure of the City so that Norwood Payneham & St Peters can become a world class example of a thriving social and ecological community.


 I am very excited to be on the team, and I am looking forward to a productive four years on Council.

Now I am a Councillor...

I got the results of the NPSP Maylands/Trinity Ward election about 7.30pm this Saturday 13th November. Vincent Tarzia, Connie Granozio and myself are the three elected coucillors for Maylands/Trinity Ward.

Just been taken out to dinner by my wonderful partner Jeremy and our kids to celebrate. I am quite blown away and very excited! Looking forward to the job.

What can I say? Thanks to everyone who believed in me. Let's go!

Only 17%...

According the Adelaide Advertiser from Friday 5th November, only 192,000 votes have been returned from a possible 1.1 million voters in South Australia for the local government elections.

That's 17.45% folks.

"Ms Mousley (South Australian Electoral Commissioner) said if the pattern of return was maintained in these elections voter turnout could be as low as 23 per cent, less than one-in-four, when the vote closes at 5pm next Friday"

Do you really want your Council to be chosen by only 20% of the people!

If you are reading this blog, and live in South Australia, you are probably already interested enough to vote. But if you know anyone who is eligible to vote, and has not, then encourage them to give it a go - or be silent for the next four years on anything to do with local issues!

That's local road safety (especially for pedestrians and bicycle users, young and old), recycling, local water harvesting, community project support, local urban planning and development issues, incentives for more sustainable household living, trees and parks, our libraries and pools, the list goes on!

Why vote for me?

I am asking for your vote, to be one of your three Councillors for Maylands/Trinity Ward in the city of Norwood Payneham & St Peters, because I will do a good job. I am committed, active, engaged with people in the community, smart and forward-thinking. I am good at working with people, and I am interested in solutions and action. I care about social equity, and everyone having a fair go. I want everyone to know who their local Councillor is, and to know that they can talk to their Councillor at any time about any issue. 

I have been out all day talking to folks in St Morris, Trinity Gardens and Firle. Many of you have seen me around. I'm the woman on the bike with the big smile. Often I have my son with me, he loves meeting people too.

Tonight we are heading out to the Hillbilly Hoot at Three D Radio station on Nelson St. And tomorrow, I'll be out again talking to people and enjoying our neighbourhood during the day, and heading to the Trinity Gardens Bowling Club for a friendly social game in the evening.

Choose 3 Councillors and 1 Mayor

From today, Monday October 25th, the local government voting packs are getting sent out to your mailbox.

If you live in the Maylands/Trinity ward, you need to choose three Councillors to represent you from a field of seven candidates.

Teresa Dall'Acqua Leonardi, Vincent Tarzia and myself are supporting each other as new candidates. I met both Teresa and Vincent when the nominations closed, and I am very impressed with their commitment and the experience and skills that they can bring to the table at Council. I have also met with Evonne Moore and I understand that she has done a lot of good work for the environment and heritage during her time on NPSP Council.

I am supporting David Winderlich for Mayor as he has been very open in his communication with me, and I like his approach and his policies which include pushing the Council to adopt more sustainable environmental practices, and supporting residents in living more sustainably, as well as issues such as safer footpaths and developing safer cycling infrastructure.

However, it is up to each person to make up their own mind, examine all the candidates, and decide who are the best representatives for you. 

You will have our contact details, and you can find out a bit more about us on the Local Government Candidate's Website. Click on "Councils" on the top bar, then click "Norwood, Payneham & St Peters, City of" and that will take you to the list of Wards and Mayors for our Council.

Let's aim for a high voter response for a local government election - more than 30% of the people choosing your Council! 

My Policies in more detail - text from my Policy Brochure

Detailed Policy Brochure, Sophia MacRae

I believe that all Councils benefit from having fresh, energetic, enthusiastic and committed people on their team. I believe in innovative, integrated long-term think that develops the synergy between the Council and the community.

I am committed to living with my family in this area for the long term. I will continue to be active in my community with my volunteer work. My professional work as a teacher and musician keeps me continually engaged with people young and old. 

If elected to Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, I commit to being available and accountable to all constituents.

Are you concerned about traffic safety?

Our children and our elderly need to negotiate the roads and footpaths safely as they move around the neighbourhood. We all need safe roads. Council plays a huge role in improving safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. As a parent who commutes with my son on my bicycle, and walks to childcare and the shops, I have a particular interest in traffic safety, and if elected I will work with Council to ensure that safety for all is given the attention and resources it demands.

Do you want pleasant public space and access to community gardens?

By maintaining and enhancing facilities such as playgrounds, parks, cultural centres, community gardens and community noticeboards, the Council can encourage people to get involved in activities in their neighbourhood, which benefits the health and well-being of everyone in the community. Norwood Payneham & St Peters is blessed with a variety of beautiful communal spaces, and I want to help people make the most of them.

Do you want more support from Council regarding water and waste management?

Waste management is a key sustainability issue for our city. I believe that the recycling of organic waste is something that bears more consideration and consultation with the community. I would like to see more incentives for on-site composting of organic waste, and the assisted uptake of “Bokashi” bins for those without gardens.

I am also committed to water management and will work with the Council and residents to conserve water and to prevent waste run-off from polluting our stormwater. Better urban and residential design and assistance to residents for purchasing tanks and other basic infrastructure will improve our ability to retain the water in our city.

Do you care about trees and supporting our urban ecology?

I am committed to preserving our city's bio-diversity. The health of our community is linked to the health of our natural environment. The trees that line our streets, parks and wetlands are a haven for native birds and other life, and are vital to the bio-diversity of our urban surroundings. Council needs to be responsible and pro-active regarding the planting and maintenance of trees, and the management of native wildlife. If elected to Council, I will work to ensure that the proposed changes to the “Significant Tree” legislation do not adversely affect our residents or the amenity of our city. I will also work to rehabilitate the four creeks that run through our city.

Do you want to see the heritage character of NPSP preserved?

Sensitive, appropriate urban development is essential in order to retain the valuable heritage character of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. Flexibility and support are required from Council to ensure that rate payers are not overburdened with the expenses of maintaining old dwellings.

If elected, I will endeavour to see that Council operates an open channel for community consultation to ensure a healthy mix of heritage and well-designed contemporary buildings for NPSP.

Do you want to save money on energy and water?

Water and energy conservation is an important issue for all South Australians. Intelligent urban planning, utilising best-practise design principles, can greatly enhance our ability to use energy and water more efficiently. I aim to work effectively to encourage water-sensitive urban planning in our public spaces and to encourage developers to implement energy-efficient building materials and techniques in our city.

Do you love the culture of our city?

I am a qualified musician who has been teaching, performing and managing professional arts events for over twenty years. As a musician I have experienced first-hand the value of community spirit and openness, and how being involved in the arts benefits the vitality and heath of our community. Norwood Payneham & St Peters is well known for its involvement with the arts and cultural events. If elected, I will work to enhance this, and make the arts even more accessible to everyone.

 Are you concerned about fiscal responsibility and accountability from your Council?  

  

If elected to the Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, I will be accessible and accountable to everyone in the community, and I'll be working hard to keep your rates as low as possible. 

I support local businesses, and want every dollar spent in our community to stay in our community for as long as possible, to create shared prosperity.

*********************************

 We all deserve to live in a pleasant neighbourhood where things just work well.

The Council is there to serve you.

I will demand effective programs and services for you.

I will ensure real community consultation, using the technology of today’s world.

Norwood Payneham & St Peters is already a great place to live, and I'm determined to make it even better.

No Junk Mail!

I am out on my bicycle solidly for the next few days, distributing my brochure and talking to residents as I do so. This brochure outlines my policies in greater detail, and also includes the How-to-Vote instructions. People will be receiving their voting pack in the mail from next Monday. If you are in Maylands/Trinity ward, you will need to choose three councillors to represent you, from the field of seven candidates. You will also need to choose your preferred Mayor for Norwood Payneham & St Peters.

I am supporting Vincent Tarzia and Teresa Dall'Aqua Leonardi for Maylands/Trinity ward, and I will talk a bit more about this shortly.

I am very pleased with the policies of David Winderlich who is running for Mayor. I would suggest that people contact the mayoral candidates, and their ward candidates, when they get the voting pack in the mail. All our phone numbers are there, and the emails of most of us. Contact us! Find out what we can do for you! Make an informed decision! We need to be put on the spot :-)

So, I have been doing much of my own letterboxing, because I want to get to know every street in my ward. Believe me, I am now familiar with all our footpaths, all our local streets, and the arterial roads of Payneham, Glynburn and Magill - not nice roads for pedestrians or cyclists! I know how bumpy some of those footpaths are, and how hard it is to negotiate a stroller or walker over them. I have seen how certain species of trees drop hard nuts and seeds that are a hazard for elderly people. I have seen blocked drains and hollows in the road and rough gutters and stretches of road that make a pedestrian, cyclist and motorist feel nervous or frustrated.


I have seen beautifully tended gardens, in both established houses and in tiny housing trust units, and I have seen gorgeous streetside and creekside environments. I have met some very nice people, and in fact, there has been no one who has not been polite, and interested to talk about their ideas for their neighbourhood.

So, I have put my introductory flyer in all your letterboxes, and this weekend, I am putting my detailed policy brochure in all your letterboxes.

When I say "all", I actually mean, those of you who are on the NPSP electoral roll. Not everyone is. Those of you who live in Norwood Payneham & St Peters, but are not on the electoral roll for whatever reason, are not receiving my paper, as I do not like cluttering up people's letterboxes without reason.

But, this being an election, I am disregarding the "No Junk Mail" and "Australia Post Only" signs on people's letterboxes. The Electoral Commission of SA permits electoral material to override these signs. This is because your letterbox is the only affordable, effective way we have to communicate with you. Council candidates can't afford TV ads. We have to use your letterbox, and I am aware that unsolicited mail can be annoying. I ask your forbearance, and more than that, I ask that you use the flyers and pamphlets and brochures and letters that your Council candidates have placed in your letterbox, to compare us, assess us, and contact us so YOU can choose the people who will be best represent you. Put us to the test. Don't let all that paper go to waste!

Out and About

Tuesday 19th October was a very full day. I visited the Co-ordinating Italian Committee in Stepney and signed up as a volunteer, I attended the Norwood Branch Rotary meeting at the Don Pyatt Hall, I returned to the Trinity Gardens Bowling Club for some more coaching on my lawn bowls technique (which is going rather well) and I called in to the St Morris RSL.

I've also ridden the streets of St Morris, Trinity Gardens and Payneham South distributing flyers, so I am getting to know every street very well!

And of course during the day I have had some great conversations.  I am learning more and more about what makes good local government.

Public Talk

This is a reminder about my public talk this Wednesday 20th, 6pm-7pm at the Maylands Hotel.

I'll be talking about my experience up in Far North Queensland at the 10th Australasian Permaculture Convergence. Permaculture is a systems design method that is based on ecological principles, that started with agricultural applications in the 1970's in Tasmania, but is now practiced all over the world, and includes urban design applications that are very relevant to areas such as Norwood Payneham & St Peters.

No RSVP required, and the Maylands serves a good meal if you wish to stick around.

Hope to see some of you there.

Letterboxing

The great letterboxing drive has started!

To tell the truth, I don't really want to put extra pieces of paper into people's letterboxes. However, it is the accepted way, and really the only effective way, for local government candidates to make themselves known to the residents of their ward.

I would like to have two way communication with the people in my ward, so I hope anyone who receives my election material in their letterbox will choose to find out a bit more about me, and let me know what I can do for them on Council.

The phone number is 0411 755 677, the email is sophianpsp@gmail.com, the blog is right here!

And I encourage everyone to do the same for every candidate. Make us work for you!

BISA Community Ride for Adelaide's Future

Sunday 17th is the day of the inaugural BISA Community Ride for Adelaide's Future. The event is both a celebration of all that is good about riding a bike, and all that is good about our city, as well as an opportunity to meet local government candidates and bring the need for safer cycling infrastructure and policies to the attention of all levels of government.

When you use a bike, even for a short trip or a relaxing Sunday pastime, you are part of a system that is moving you around, increasing health, doesn't create pollution or cause damage to the road, and increases overall enjoyment of life. If you are able to use a bike, and feel safe and confident doing it, it is such a great feeling.

I have been part of the organising committee for this event, and I am very proud of my colleagues for all the work they have done in engaging both the general community, and council candidates from around Adelaide.

We may have some special guests there too.

Bring a picnic in your panniers or backpack. Hope to see you there.

Ride to Work Day

Wednesday October 13th was National Ride to Work Day.

As many people know, a terrible thing happened on this day. A cyclist on his way to work was killed as he was negotiating a lane change on a busy road.

Sadly, this is not a unique occurance. Five cyclists have now been killed on our roads this year. As of 14th Oct 2010, 12 pedestrians had been killed (figures from SAPOL) and a total of 92 people had lost their lives on South Australian roads. Regarding serious injuries, this year 881 people have been seriously injured, 62 of those are cyclists, 86 are pedestrians.

When cycling advocates talk about improving cycling safety, the benefits go beyond the bicycle users, they extend to everyone in the community. If road conditions and driver behaviours are safer for cyclists, they will likely be safer for pedestrians, and all other road users.

I am an advocate for bicycle users and pedestrians. Through my associations and activism, I am working with others to improve the safety of more vulnerable road users. 

We are fortunate in Norwood Payneham & St Peters to not have major highways running through our council area. But people are being killed and injured on all types of roads. How long will we accept this blood price that we pay every year for the percieved convenience of our current transport paradigm?

Several things need to happen. Roads need to be designed better, so that more vulnerable users are safer. All road users need to be educated better regarding the responsibility that goes with using such a potentially destructive tool. All levels of government have to work together. Real and practical alternatives to using cars need to be in place.

Finally, individuals have to say, enough is enough. Instead of blaming the victim for being there, or sadly shrugging our shoulders and saying "Accidents happen", or blaming the offending driver without looking at the societal paradigm that makes car ownership and driving with a sense of entitlement the norm, let's change the paradigm, and make our transport system one that is designed for humans, not machines.

Non parlo molto italiano, pero lo sto imparando!

Today, Wednesday 13th Oct, I attended the Festa Dell'Anziano at the Fogolar Furlan in Felixstow. This event for the Italian community's elderly was put on by the Co-ordinating Italian Committee (CIC Inc.)

This was an opportunity for me to meet some of the older people in our community, and to practice my italian!

A good number of people were recognised with a ceremony and gift for their volunteering contributions to the Italian community.

My running mate in this election, Teresa Dall'Acqua Leonardi, was present as a special guest, in recognition for all the work she does, in particular for the elderly. Local State and Federal MPs were also in attendence.

I enjoyed very much the opportunity to be at this event, sharing some delicious food and having my eyes and ears opened to the richness of our area's Italian heritage!

molto bene!

Mullet Youth Arts Festival

The Mullet Youth Arts Festival was wrapped up on Friday 8th October with the Gala Short Film Festival Screening - I did feel a bit special as I walked up the red carpet, and got greeted by a collection of glamorous girls who were obviously loving the showbiz play element of the night. I must hasten to add, I was not the only one being greeted so enthusiastically - everyone entering the Norwood Concert Hall was made to feel special.

About 24 short films were shown, all made by young local artists aged from 12-25 years, some of whom had attended the 4 day Mullet Short Film Boot Camp held at the Payneham Library.

The quality was outstanding.

I must say the same for the Visual Arts Exhibition which ran from Saturday 25th to Wednesday 29th September. I got to see it on the very last day as I came back from Queensland that morning. I loved it so much that I bought an artwork! I was lucky enough to meet the father of one of the artists, whose work had just been purchased by Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council for display. Needless to say, he was very proud!

The artwork I chose for myself, "Wonder in the Woods" by Katrina Ortega

I am very impressed by the creativity of young people in the area, and very pleased to see that the Council is giving them the opportunity to develop their talent and ideas with the input of professional artists. By supporting young artists now, they will give back a thousand-fold to the cultural vitality of our community.

Mental Health Week

Mental Health Week is this week, 10th -16th October. Stress Less Day is Wednesday 13th October, and the Mental Health Week Walk is on this Friday 15th October from 10am-2pm at the River Torrens in town.

Mental health is something that concerns us all. One in five people in our community will experience mental health problems. That is someone you know, someone you work with, someone you love. If it is you, then you know how isolating and challenging it is to deal with mental health issues.

Many people feel that they have to bear this burdon alone, and keep it a secret. It shouldn't be that way.

By having this issue acknowledged openly, and by having community facilities and connections enhanced, we can all work together for everyone's health and well-being.
Community gardens, playgrounds, public space, safe and clean streets, trees, accessible cultural events and noticeboards, are all part of the way that Council can contribute to better mental health for everyone.

CityPlan 2030

CityPlan 2030 is the long-term strategic management plan for the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. It was developed in consultation with the community during 2007 and 2008 and the final version was endorsed by Council in July 2008.
A review of CityPlan 2030 will be conducted every five years, and the first review is scheduled for 2012-2013.

I have read through this document with great interest and close attention, and I find it to be a commendable plan, in particular with regard to the Objectives concerning Environmental Sustainability and Social Equity. There is particular attention paid to pedestrian and bicycle user facilities, and to encouraging a healthier, more engaged community.

I am encouraged to know that the Council has these objectives and outcomes in writing, and that their decision making process is guided by this document which was developed with local community input.

I look forward to being part of a Council that is able to implement these directives, and turn words into action.

Trinity Gardens Bowling Club - The Night Owls!

Last night, Tuesday 5th October, I did something I've never done before - I tried lawn bowls!

I had a great time, and I was impressed by the friendliness and welcoming attitude of everyone at the Club. I was given some coaching, a little bit of practice, and then I was set to go, playing with other newcomers and old hands.

Trinity Gardens Bowling Club is a little gem, nestled in the centre block of Albermarle, Canterbury, Hereford and Lechfield, side by side with the Trinity Gardens Tennis Club.

These clubs provide physical health, social, mental and emotional health, interaction in the public space, in the context of community engagement.

Community facilities like this are so important to our neighbourhoods. Let's work to make sure they are maintained and assisted to stay healthy and functioning.

I won a Trinity Garden Bowling Club glass! 
Pictured with Club President Alex Wheaten. 

Photo by Steven Marshall.

Platform and Policy

I am running for NPSP Council on a platform of practical sustainability, improved traffic safety and facilities  for pedestrians and bicycle users, and accountability and access of the Council to the community.

Everyone who lives in the area, regardless of whether they are young or old, sick or well, home-owners or renters, in or out of the workforce, deserves to have a neighbourhood that is pleasant to live in and where everything works well.
Everyone deserves to have a Council that is working hard for them with the long term in mind, continuing to make Norwood Payneham & St Peters a great place to live.
Everyone deserves to feel that their Council is listening and available.

My key areas of focus are:

• traffic safety and improving facilities for pedestrians and bicycle users
• public space and community gardens
• water and waste management
• preservation of trees and urban bio-diversity
• preservation of heritage
• intelligent urban planning that utilises best practice design in energy and water efficiency and capture
• maintaining and enhancing a vibrant arts culture
• keeping rates affordable and ensuring fiscal responsibility

A more detailed statement outlining these policies will follow shortly.

I sincerely welcome any suggestions and feedback. Please email me sophianpsp@gmail.com or call me 0411 755 677 or write a short letter to 3/18 Williams Ave, St Morris SA 5068

Publication of Candidate Profiles and Statements Online

The Local Government Association of SA have just launched the public information section of their website, allowing all people to view the photo, 150-word profile and optional longer statement of the candidates for their council and specific ward. From the LGA's home page, click on the "webpage for every candidate" link, which will direct you to the home page for candidates. Click the "Councils" tab on the top right hand bar, then scroll down to "Norwood, Payneham and St Peters, City of" and click there, which will take you to a page where you can choose your ward and/or the Mayoral candidates. Click on "Maylands/Trinity" to see the profile information for myself and the other six candidates. Remember that you will be choosing three councillors from these seven candidates when you vote.
Voting packs will be mailed out from October 25th, and must be returned by November 12th.

Quick link to my profile is as follows: http://www.lgcandidates.sa.gov.au/index.cfm?objectid=656C8AD3-C572-11DF-8BF10024E82DD5AF

Our local radio station

Last night I went to the backyard of Three D Radio, our local independant radio station on Nelson St in Stepney. They hold the "Hillbilly Hoot" there every Monday night from 8pm-9pm, which is open to all, and broadcast live to air. I brought my clarinet along and had a little blow at the end.

We are so lucky to have this community resource in our own patch. Three D Radio is totally volunteer run, and depends on subscriptions and the very occassional grant to exist. They support South Australian artists and those who have been under-represented in traditional broadcasting.

I'm sending them my subscription today!

Door Knocking

I have started door knocking this long weekend. I am loving it! I am having some wonderful conversations, and enjoying seeing the neighbourhood at a relaxed walking pace. Look forward to seeing you soon!

Who Am I, and Why Am I Running for NPSP Council?

Some of the first questions that a candidate gets asked are: "Why are you running for Council?" and "What are your policies?" I will answer the second question in a separate post, meanwhile, I shall respond to the first.

I am running for Council because after being away from Australia for such a long time, and having the experience of being an outsider with no real say in how my neighbourhood worked, I decided that once I returned to Adelaide, I would get involved with democracy in general and my community in particular.

I joined a number of organisations, starting with the Gawler Environment and Heritage Association, as my little son and myself stayed with my mother in Gawler until we found our feet and moved into St Morris. GEHA were a wonderful welcoming mob and I still follow their activities with great interest.
I joined Bicycle Institute of South Australia, and after I completed my Permaculture Design Certificate at The Food Forest in Gawler, 2009, I joined Sustainable Communities NPSP (as they were known then),  the Permaculture Association of South Australia, and Permaculture Education Zone. I later became a member of my local Greens branch, the Eastern Suburbs Greens. All this was while studying for my Master of Teaching (Junior Primary and Primary) at UniSA Magill campus. During this time I have also helped plan and facilitate a Weekend Permaculture Workshop, a Professional Development workshop for middle school teachers on Permaculture in the classroom, and an "Introduction to Transition in SA" Weekend.

I became involved in the 2010 State and Federal Elections as a volunteer for the Greens. I had not considered standing for Local Government until I had a conversation with Steven Marshall, MP for Norwood, concerning his Bicycle Boulevard Proposal. I realised that improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists in the local area is very much the concern of the local council. Our conversation moved on to street design, house design, waste management and water and community gardens, and I realised, Yes, I should run for NPSP Council!

My partner Jeremy is completing his Masters in Regional and Urban Planning, and we have many conversations about the latest research and concepts in sustainable urban planning, from both a neighbourhood and household perspective. We are both committed to low impact community orientated living, and volunteering and committee work is a large part of our lives.

My background is somewhat unusual for a local government candidate. I am a professional musician, and I have had the opportunity to travel and work in a wonderful variety of ways. I started at the Elder Conservatorium of Music studying classical clarinet in 1990, and my work has included the SA Police Band, The Phantom of the Opera, Jazz Festivals around Australia and Europe, cruise ships around the world and a long stint in Barcelona. I have always been involved in teaching, and I have put together many large concerts and organised small festivals.
But in some ways my most satisfying music work has been as a street musician, because in that context, I am playing music that is available to the whole community, young and old, rich and poor, sick and well, advantaged and disadvantaged. I am passionate about equity and access. My experiences as a musician have taught me about the value of community and fairness, and it is for this reason that I am running for council.

Back home in SA

I got back from Kuranda, Far North Queensland, last Wednesday 29th September, from the 10th Australasian Permaculture Convergence, which was a wonderful and very productive experience. It was a gathering of very smart, thoughtful and dedicated people who are interested in ACTION, more than simply talking. Permaculture is the application of design principles based in ecology that enable people to live comfortably and productively within the context of their environment. It applies to agriculture, urban environments and also human social structures.

The Adelaide contingent at APC10, Kuranda: l-r Lachlan McKenzie, Kim Hill, Anne-Marie Brookman, Sophia MacRae, Pedro D, Eric Nicholson, Harry Harrison, Stephen Poole, Graham Brookman
absent: Clee Tonkin

 The Bushy Beard contingent at APC10, Kuranda: l-r Pete the Permie, Costa Georgiadis, Harry Harrison

I will be giving a public talk on Wednesday 20th September from 6pm-7pm at the Maylands Hotel, to share some of what I learned at the Convergence, and to answer any other questions and listen to what people have to say!

Off to Queensland, back very soon!

The Australasian Permaculture Convergence 2010 is kicking off on Friday 24th September in Kuranda, Far North Queensland, and I am very excited to be going - not least in order to get some sunshine!

More than that, I know I will be learning so much from the diverse range of people who will attend from all over Australia and internationally. Keynote speakers are Maj.Gen. Michael Jeffery, former Governor General of Australia and Daryl Hannah, actor & environmental campaigner.
Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, co-founders of Permaculture, and Costa from Costa's Gardening Odessey will also be speaking, along with a host of others, including my good friend Eric Nicholson on behalf of PEZ.

Permaculture has a strong following in South Australia, and we have excellent examples of permaculture applied to both rural settings at The Food Forest in Gawler, and urban settings at Christie Walk in Sturt St, Adelaide.

I am particularly interested in permaculture education for young people, and permaculture in urban planning. Permaculture has a lot to offer to urban and suburban residents, especially in the areas of water and waste management, household energy efficiency and productive backyards and community gardens.

Bicycle Boulevard Forum

There is a forum this Thursday 23rd Sept at 6pm in Norwood at the Osmond Terrace Function Centre where the community can have their say regarding improving cycling infrastructure for the area.

I wrote a letter concerning this to the Editor of the East Torrens Messenger, which didn't appear, but I reproduce it in full here:

************
Dear Sir

I would like to encourage all residents who are interested in improving cycling
safety to attend the Community Forum this Thursday evening 6pm at the Osmond
Terrace Function Centre, hosted by Steven Marshall, MP for Norwood.

Mr Marshall’s Bicycle Boulevard proposal has focused on Beulah Road as its starting point, but if the proposal has community support and is successfully implemented, it could be an example for improved cycling and pedestrian facilities throughout the eastern suburbs and metropolitan area.

As secretary of the Bicycle Institute of SA, and as a candidate for NPSP Council,
and especially as a parent who cycles with my child, I heartily support any moves
to improve cycling safety. Making bicycle use safer will improve amenity for all
residents, making it easier for people to choose to leave their car at home and go
about their daily business by bike, reducing vehicle traffic and the associated costs.

If the community makes it clear that they are concerned about safety for bicycle
users and better living for all, then I am confident our state and local governments
will listen.

************

Details of the forum can be found here

Getting people to vote...

Here is the text of an article that I recently wrote, to be published in the upcoming issue of University of South Australia's Unilife Magazine. I wrote it with the aim of getting students, both undergraduate and graduate, to think about the importance of voting.

Local Government elections are notorious for having a low voter turnout, as voting in these elections is not compulsory. Figures show that only a third of eligible people bother voting.

Image from Independent Review of Local Government Elections
Local Government Association of South Australia

My contribution as follows:

Going for the Hat Trick

Hands up who remembers the days of live ‘n’ kicking student politics on campus? Think back in the early ‘90’s, when Natasha Stott Despoja was powering from University of Adelaide to the Senate, and then leap to 2006, when John Howard eviscerated Australia’s Student Unions with the introduction of VSU, and effectively pulled the rug out under the feet of student political engagement and interest. After all, if it’s not compulsory, why bother?
Back in the ‘90’s, I never thought I’d get involved in politics myself. But now, in my second degree, as an Education student on a campus and in a culture that doesn’t seem to know the power of its own voice, I am finding that I want to say something, not just for myself but for anyone else who wants their point of view to be considered, and wants a representative at the table.
So, 2010 State Election, 2010 Federal Election… I started reading, I started listening, I started caring about what was happening. Now we’ve got the Hat Trick Election – 2010 Local Government. This is where I’m gonna get on the train.
I like the idea of Local Government because it is about where I actually live. The decisions that the Council makes will have a direct impact on my local area. And local people can go to the meetings.
So even though voting in the Local Government elections is not compulsory, meaning that about two thirds of people who are eligible to vote won’t even bother, it is actually the election where you can have the most direct impact.
Local Councils need a greater diversity of folks in their meetings, if they are going to make decisions that affect all of the people living in the area. The image that many people have of Council is that of a collection of middle aged, comfortable business men and women. How can they represent the views of younger people, especially students who are still renting, who are not business owners, but still need access to everything a good neighbourhood should provide?
I’m sure Councils are not all like this – let’s make sure that they are not! (Being under 40, I will put myself in the “younger person” bracket!)
I really want to see uni students getting engaged again with their community – both on campus, and in the neighbourhoods where they live. People go to uni because they DO care about things, but the modern uni experience can leave people feeling overwhelmed with the demands of study and working to support themselves, plus trying to have a life too. It’s hard to give some attention to extra concerns that you may feel you have no input into anyway. The thing is, you CAN have an input. Find out what candidates stand for, email or phone them, and vote accordingly. The system may not be perfect, but it sure beats the alternative of losing your voice completely.

Supporting friends

My good friend Eric Nicholson has decided to run for council. We both care deeply about sustainability, ecology and the future wellbeing of our planet and the people on it, and are both actively involved in community groups to bring about positive change. Eric is the founder and driving force behind Permaculture Education Zone, a group of which I am also a founding committee member. We both feel that the next logical step is to work at the local government level, so we can be involved with decisions that affect our local neighbourhood, and, we hope, fairly represent the concerns of the community.

Eric is running for Adelaide City Council, South Ward. I went to his campaign launch to support him. Stephen Yarwood, Lord Mayor Candidate for Adelaide City Council, was also there to support Eric. I first met Stephen earlier this year and was very impressed by his energy, enthusiasm, knowledge and passion. He is part of the reason why I was inspired to nominate for Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council, and I was very happy to see him supporting Eric.

I feel excited knowing that there are genuinely passionate people wanting to get involved with local government, and that I may be working with some of them in the future.

Adelaide PARK(ing) Day

Friday 17th September was a great day for reclaiming a bit of public space and engaging with the community through art and fun. I took part in the inaugural Adelaide PARK(ing) Day with Bicycle Institute of South Australia's "Bicycle Workshop". BISA is hoping to open up the "Adelaide Community Bicycle Workshop" as soon as we can find a home... perhaps in the council area of Norwood Payneham & St Peters? On the day, we rented our space for $2.40 an hour outside the Law Courts on Gouger St.

BISA, through the ACBW, wants to make owning, using and maintaining a bicyle fun and easy, helping people to be able to work on their own bikes and meet up with other folks who love tinkering, designing, riding and hanging out.

The Adelaide PARK(ing) Day was organised on a volunteer basis by a group of young local architects and urban planners, based on the international movement started a few years back in San Francisco. From the Adelaide PARK(ing) Day website:

"PARK(ing) Day is all about:

• Calling attention to the importance of urban public spaces
• Rethinking the way we use our streets
• Creating diverse conversations about design and how we make sustainable cities

"PARK(ing) Day aims to cultivate your civic pride and invites you to consider the role you- the citizen- play in conceiving, building and improving your local urban environment" Rebar 2009

I had a great time being involved with this community event, and I would like to see more community events taking place in Norwood Paynehanm & St Peters, building on the vibrant festival tradition that we have.

Photos by Jeremy Miller

Sustainable House Day

On Sunday 12th September I went along to see a wonderful property in St Peters that was one of the featured houses in Sustainable House Day 2010 . Marianne Frommer and John Sved hosted a continuous stream of visitors through their native garden and raised veggie beds and their very cleverly designed house. Marianne and John took advantage of the natural aspects of the block to design their house so it uses minimal energy and water, but is comfortable and welcoming.

I am very interested in finding ways to make it easier for people to build, renovate, retrofit and adapt their houses so that they can utilise the wealth of knowledge that is out there for living in a more energy and water efficient and cost effective manner.

Photos by Aaron Neilson

Essential Edibles - Our local 'Urban Orchard'

I attended the inaugural "Essential Edibles" share and swap market at Joslin Reserve in St Peters last Sunday 5th September. This community initiative has been set up by Lisa from Sustainable Communities SA, and is modelled on the very successful 'Urban Orchard' model that operates in communities around the world. Adelaide already has some very successful Urban Orchards, in particular the Clarence Park Urban Orchard which started in 2007.

The idea is for home growers to be able to easily redistribute any surplus from their gardens, and get produce in exchange that they may not have been able to grow themselves. More than that, it is a way of connecting up neighbours, providing a hub for the community, reducing food miles and building relationships.

It was a beautiful morning for the first Essential Edibles market, and I had a lovely time chatting with folks and picking up some fresh home grown produce and beautiful irises. See the write up from Sustainable Communities.

Essential Edibles takes place on the first Sunday of every month, from 8.30am to 11.30am at Joslin Reserve, Fourth Ave St Peters. See you at the next one!

Welcome!

Hello everyone, I am very excited to be writing the first post on my website! I have created this site as a space for me to be able to show people why I am running for Norwood Payneham St Peters Council, and what I am doing over the next two months during the campaign. It is also a place for the community to be able to interact with me online, and I welcome any (civil!) comment and airing of views. I will be updating this site regularly, so please visit often!

Please feel free to contact me via the comments section, my email sophianpsp@gmail.com or phone 0411 755 677.