KESAB Sustainable Communities

2016 Sustainable Communities

Sustainable Communities 2016 attracted 150 category entries and 25 communities were visited during a comprehensive judging period.

The entries received were of great quality and highlight the tenacity and dedication of regional SA in striving for environmentally, socially and economically sustainable communities. A snapshot of projects submitted includes;

Penong Windmill Museum; this community initiative highlights the history of the windmill in Penong and Australia, and is drawing tourists from far and wide to the small Nullarbor town. It includes the Biggest Windmill in Australia – Bruce!

Railway Lands Development – City of Mount Gambier; an outstanding development of an eyesore in the heart of Mount Gambier which now includes a nature play area, public art, water sensitive urban design, solar lighting, use of salvaged items and public space. The activation of the space was innovative and highly successful.

Recycling Project – Tailem Bend Primary School; enabling cans, bottles and cartons to be collected for recycling, providing a valuable service for the community, raising community awareness, developing student skills and ensuring significant learning. The Rotary Club of Tailem Bend is a valuable partner in this project.

Walk the Yorke Trail – Yorke Peninsula Council; a 500km trail following the coastline of the Yorke Peninsula has opened up many opportunities to see the spectacular landscape of the Yorke Peninsula and learn the history and stories of the region.

Program Review

At the culmination of the 2016 Sustainable Communities Program, KESAB resolved to undertake a review of the program to determine its current standing in the community.

132 people were invited to give feedback, including new participants in 2016, annual participants, participants that come and go over the years, and participants who have not been involved for a few years and are unlikely to return. Participants included council staff and elected members, community groups and associated members (past and present), teachers, business owners and individuals.

KESAB received 51 responses to the survey and the response was primarily positive, with some good suggestions and ideas.

KESAB also engaged two external consultants to speak with regional councils about the Sustainable Communities program, and broader KESAB activities and services to gauge a better understanding of the current needs of regional councils and their communities.

Recommendations from the consultants were received by the KESAB board and are currently under review.