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.
Monday, October 25, 2010
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!
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!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
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.
Friday, October 22, 2010
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!
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!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
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.
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!
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!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
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.
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.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
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!
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!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
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
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!
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.
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.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
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.
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:
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
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
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
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
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!
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!
Monday, October 4, 2010
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!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
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.
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.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
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!
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
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!
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