Adelaide's Future - Stephen Yarwood for Lord Mayor

Rundle Mall

2010-09-30T08:43:00.003+09:30

The Rundle Mall is a prime example of Adelaide’s need for renewal, quality place making and integrated design.

The relatively new Rundle Mall Management Authority is now in full swing preparing a master plan for Adelaide’s premier retail strip. The next Council will need to deliver some quick wins and be committed to implementing a unified vision. Plans cannot be left on the shelf - we need leadership and teamwork from Council, State Government and business to bring the heart of Adelaide back to life.

Some ideas I strongly support include:

• More unique stores and alfresco dining opportunities;
• Trading hours moving from 10am-7pm;
• Better access via an upgrade and integration of parking, cycling and public transport facilities;
• Extensive free WiFi to encourage people to study, meet for business and connect;
• More shade, especially greening via significant tree plantings;
• New high quality public realm upgrade – better pavers are a must;
• A focus on improving the laneways around the mall;
• Incentives for building owners to give heritage buildings an upgrade;
• Activation of heritage buildings via improved regulations to promote innovative uses (i.e. fashion designers) or residential living;
• Facilitation of apartment development opportunities;
• Recycling bins, drinking fountains and improved character lighting; and
• Contemporary art installations and activities for all ages.

Trading hours especially should see a significant quick win. Currently city workers stream out of offices at 5.30 only to find shops shut and restaurants not yet open – 50% of the 120,000 city workers currently don’t regularly shop or dine in the city!

Giving people a reason to stay in the city after work will add vitality, serve as a catalyst to promote city living and in turn create more opportunities for business.

23 million people pass through the Rundle Mall each year – my vision is to not only bring more people in, but give them a reason to stay longer and “talk up” the cosmopolitan lifestyle only the heart of Adelaide can offer.

"Lack of experience"?

2010-09-17T09:56:00.005+09:30

Anne Moran’s statements in the press that I am inexperienced are false.

I have nearly 20 experience in State Government, Parliament and Local Government focusing on the planning and management of cities – cities are my life and I know government intimately. I am also the only candidate with any relevant tertiary qualifications:

• B.A. Town Planning
• Grad. Dip Town Planning
• Grad. Dip Environmental Studies
• Masters of Business Administration
• Graduate Member Australian Institute Company Directors

My research has taken me to 10 countries and 3 continents.

I have also been a councillor for the same length as all other candidates and the only one to be Deputy Lord Mayor.

I am also the only genuinely technologically literate Lord Mayor candidate - I offer professional leadership that understands the contemporary issues facing cities in the 21C.

Adelaide deservers a professional "thought leader" that wants to roll up his sleeves and help make Adelaide an international brand of excellence - please help me create a confident future for Adelaide.

Public Art & Street Art – We need MORE!

2010-09-05T11:45:00.013+09:30

Our public art budget is abysmal, $180,000 per year. It should be at least double, if not triple, and used to generate greater contributions from State Government, the private sector and community.

Its time art hit the streets of Adelaide in a decisive and bold way!

Public art has been around since cities were invented. Monuments and memorials are the oldest and most obvious form of sanctioned public art, however increasingly all aspects of the built environment are seen as legitimate opportunities. Street furniture, lighting and the unfriendly blank walls that litter our communities are all opportunities to be unleashed.

Street art in particular is an emerging form of public art that is an increasingly popular part of progressive cities around the world. Street art is not graffiti, but in fact “all art on the street that’s not graffiti”. It takes many forms includes stencils, stickers, posters, installations and video projection.

“Banksy” is the most famous of a long list of internationally celebrated street artist, I love his work and highly recommend you visit his web site and see his new movie…it is excellent.

Street art communicates with everyday people about socially relevant themes in their daily lives. It adds color, life and vibrancy and gives people a chance to make important social and environmental statements. Artwork that utilises public space also allows the artists, who may otherwise feel disenfranchised, to reach a broader audience. Some forms of public art are also designed to encourage audience hands-on participation; pieces that use water, sound and play spaces are all excellent examples.

I recently teamed up with some of Adelaide’s street artists to make a bid for council funding - we got $40,000 to tackle Adelaide City Councils very own blank walls. These walls not only detract from our urban environment but send the wrong message to our local artists. This was the surprising result!

Our main streets (Rundle, Gouger, Grote, Hutt, Hindley, Melbourne, O’Connell and Sturt St) are all sadly lacking public art. We also have so many laneways in the CBD that are screaming for well lit, safe and colorful outdoor gallery experience that would help renew and revitalize the heart and soul of our city. www.melbournestreetart.com speaks volumes about how they have embraced this city movement, Adelaide needs to step up and get serious about having fun on the streets of our city.

I want to be a cultural leader that says Council is keen to stimulate public art. We need a Lord Mayor that says good street art is welcome and creating landscapes with meaning is important.

Council needs to tap into public art as a means of contact with the community about social and environmental issues. The new Albert Einstein on a bike mural in the Central Market by Peter Drew is a great example; it says council will be 60% carbon neutral by 2012.

Community art is also really important and I would like to congratulate “Higher Ground” on their fantastic new mural in Light Square; a colorful depiction of historical characters and icons on Adelaide’s past.

Let’s not be afraid of a bit of controversy. Public art is a great opportunity to provoke the public, connect communities and generate questions and ideas about Adelaide’s future.

What do you think?

Design & Fashion

2010-08-15T11:02:00.004+09:30

Design & art is the backbone of Adelaide’s economy and international branding – this should mean fashion as well. We also excel at education and training...there is great potential to not only keep local designers here but also attract others that are keen to learn.

Fashion is an important driver of community culture, style and thinking; in Europe socially responsible design is all the rage. It’s regional or fairtrade materials, supporting local talent and keeping money circulating in their own economy.

Our “main streets”, especially the Mall, Hindley & Rundle, need to pursue a good mix of local, national and international designers. We should not compete in generic brand stores with Westfield that make us look like a clone. The city needs a classy and edgy point of difference and Adelaide City Council should be more proactive in seeking this mix.

The city’s main streets should have greater autonomy to oversee an infusion of higher quality and diverse shops. My support for Renew Adelaide is also about activating unused shops and studio spaces at low cost to seed innovation. ABC did a story on this - its online here.

I’m a design fan…I love my Mac and Denmark was inspirational. Wandering down Rundle Street is better than ever thanks to the big picture efforts of Steve Maras – but we need laneways and smaller spaces for local designers to seed innovation and get a fair go. A complementary mix of local markets is also critical; Rundle Street markets could do much more to promote local designers - how cool are the Gilles St Markets?!

Having a Lord Mayor that can infuse these values into the city would be a good start to rethinking the role of design and fashion in Adelaide. Council could also provide leadership through dedicated grants program for designers, especially to have events that bring people to Adelaide, brand us nationally and internationally and make it vibrant, colourful and fun.

Good design is about connecting lots of ideas – that’s my job, indeed my passion for progressing Adelaide. I hope to have the support of like minded creative’s who want to make this town synonymous with good a quality design ethic.

Inspirational cities

2010-08-11T13:27:00.007+09:30

Spiritual Varanasi
The oldest continually inhabited city in the world, Varanasi has been a cultural and religious centre for thousands of years. Many prominent philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians have lived here. A must see for culturally minded adventurers.

I have a strong respect for India and would love to see Adelaide connect with this global player. Hundreds of millions of Indians know Adelaide because they love cricket!

Innovative San Francisco
With much of its wealth coming from the information economy, San Francisco has a strong university culture. They consider highly educated workers a long-term investment.

Their friendly style, mix of Victorian and modern architecture and appreciation of food and wine reminded me of home. San Francisco embraces international culture and the gay community. They also focus on each neighbourhood having their own unique character.

A third of all commuters use public transport. San Francisco leads the nation in electric car infrastructure and are planning and promoting the value of medium density walkable communities.

We love Adelaide!
Adelaide is the 349th biggest, yet 8th most liveable city in the world. What a fantastic achievement. With a healthy economy, quality universities and a thriving arts culture I believe we can move up the list.

While we don’t want Adelaide to be exactly like any other city, we can learn from their strengths if we are open to new ideas.
I believe it is possible to embrace Adelaide’s parklands, heritage, arts and sustainability values as strategic advantages to create economic prosperity.

How would you like to see Adelaide develop?

Inspirational Cities

2010-08-11T08:47:00.008+09:30

Liveable Vancouver

The world’s most liveable city is characterized by high-rise residential and mixed-use development. The compact core is called "ecodensity”. Vancouver has emphasised quality design and planning that contributes to environmental sustainability, affordability and liveability.

With a large trolley bus fleet and strong focus on pedestrian and cycling, Vancouver has seen a decrease in cars but an increase in vibrancy, activity and demand for housing. A fantastic example of how a pro- development and pro-environment culture can come together to create prosperity and international excellence in building cities.

Exciting Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an important business partner and gateway to China for Adelaide. You may be surprised to know that less than 25% of Hong Kong's land is developed with 40% dedicated to parks and reserves. Intensely urbanised, the city has made an effort to promote a green environment. 90% of daily commuters are on public transport.

Hong Kong has positioned itself as a financial centre, successfully moving from an industrial to service economy. Known as a centre for modern architecture with vibrant street life and excellent markets, Hong Kong is an organised city with a clean city culture.

Vibrant Melbourne

Melbourne is renowned as a cultural centre with a fantastic network of historic lanes and arcades with busy shops, cafés, nightclubs and street art.

Listed as the second most liveable city in the world, Melbourne blends heritage and contemporary architecture and features an integrated public transport system. Don’t we all love Melbourne’s trams!

The mix of city high rises and abundance of parks, gardens and diverse multicultural city characteristics works well. The result is urban renewal, a thriving economy and buzzing city.

Cycling in Adelaide & Copenhagen

2010-08-01T10:28:00.007+09:30

Many would recall the Council debacle with the ‘attempted” Sturt Street Copenhagen bike lane; now being ripped out due to community opposition. Having just returned from Denmark I now understand what a mistake the lane was.

In summary we do not need a Copenhagen lane, but a Copenhagen network painted on all our roads ASAP. This is a cornerstone of my campaign - we are a car dependant (and overweight) community in need of a culture shift to a healthier, sustainable and more productive society.

Extremist? Hardly! We need a logical balance between cars and bikes that has social, environmental and economic benefits. If you only follow one link please have a look at this video regarding cycling in Copenhagen – it’s amazing and may redefine your aspiration for Adelaide’s future.

Copenhagen is an innovative cycling city; every day 38% of citizens commute by bike and the goal is to grow that to 50% by 2015. By comparison only 5% commute by bike in Adelaide, yet it is the fastest growing mode of transport.

Their infrastructure is truly amazing; as comprehensive as our roads and footpaths. My analogy would be to suggest we Australians only think “transport” in two dimensions compared to their three. Bicycle paths are regularly separated from cars, often have their own traffic signals and there is an impressive system of interconnected routes facilitating fast and safe city wide movement.

The cycling conditions are exceptionally favourable; flat terrain, equitable space and car drivers that have been “calmed” to respect all street users. Overall cycling is accepted as a healthier, environmentally friendly, cheaper and often quicker way around town; it is as normal as driving a car.

Check out the AMAZING web site dedicated to bikes and fashion - Marketing magazine lists Cycle Chic as one of the top 10 fashion websites on the web.

Some fast facts:

• 9 out of 10 Danes have a bicycle;
• Only 15% of cyclists use helmet because it’s safe;
• Every Dane cycles 1.1 km on average each day;
• 24% of trips below 5 km are by bicycle;
• 45% of all Danish children cycle to school;
• 44% of all Danish households don’t have a car;
• The average travel speed in Copenhagen is 15 km/h for cyclists and 27 km/h for cars;
• Physically inactive people die 5-6 years before physically active ones; and
• Productivity gain is the main benefit from cycling – cyclists are healthier and thus less absent from work.

2.2 meters is the standard width of cycle lanes in Denmark, making conversation possible, overtaking safe and couples even hold hands! 2.5-2.8 meters is Copenhagen’s new standard, offering space for three cyclists next to each other; that’s a lot more attractive than our 1.6 metre lanes whilst cars get all the space they need.

What Adelaide needs urgently is complete network painted on every road in Adelaide with lanes of at least 2 metres, maybe more in places. This will mean losing some car lanes, but must happen to succeed. This cycle network needs to appear quickly, be boldly presented and marketed as a new way of thinking that is good for you, the environment and economy.

The mistake Council made was to build the laneway before the community was ready; like colouring in a picture before the pencil sketch is finished. Once decent widths are marked out and the personal and community benefits communicated I believe we will see a critical mass of bikes in use – I’m gunning for a paradigm shift.

Making Adelaide a cycling city is a perfect example of the collective political will needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance people’s health and quality of life. The cost of health Australia faces due to inactivity and obesity is spine chilling and decreasing CO2 emissions is one of the most important challenges the world faces today. Adelaide’s vision should be to be a world's best cycling city by 2025, starting now. We have the most appropriate climate, wide roads, flat terrain and significant leverage from via the “Tour Down Under”. I also believe the community are ready and are seeking bold leadership to provide a fair balance for all transport modes.

So is Copenhagen the best in the world? I am no expert and recommend the following from Dutch cyclist David Hembrow - an excellent blog on Copenhagen compared to the Netherlands – where cycling appears even more prevalent.

Please spread this blog if you like what you read because I am the candidate that supports cycling for Adelaide's Future - we need the right leadership to make this happen.

Voting in Adelaide City Council Elections

2010-07-31T14:41:00.003+09:30

There are approx. 21,000 potential voters in the City of Adelaide Local Government elections. You are one of these if you are:

• A resident of the City of Adelaide;
• An owner of property within the City of Adelaide; or
• A business owner within the City of Adelaide.

You may also vote if you are a nominee of a body corporate or nominee of a group. A group comprises joint owners of any rateable property or joint occupiers of non-residential rateable property.

No one can vote in more than one of the above capacities; so regardless of how many buildings you own, you get just 1 vote.

Not an Australian citizen? Well this is the ONLY vote you get! That means international students, if they enrol and live in the city, get a vote. Please let them know...

You need to have enrolled by 5pm Friday 13 August - enrolment forms can be found here >>>

Frustrated you are not a voter? Last election just over 30% of potential voters participated. Please make sure your friends cast their vote and consider this your chance to make a difference.

It’s a postal vote – sent out Monday 25 October. It MUST be returned by 12th November as counting is Saturday the 13th November.

People will be voting for 12 positions as follows:

• Lord Mayor
• 5 Area Councillors (council wide)
• 6 Ward Councillors (2 Councillors from 3 wards; being north, central and south wards).

I encourage people to consider standing and am keen to talk to you if interested.

If you have any more questions check out this FAQ or contact council via the details on the web site here.

Denmark on reflection

2010-07-24T10:57:00.010+09:30

I’m not surprised Denmark is often recognised as “the happiest place in the world" based on standards of health, welfare, and education – it’s been an excellent experience and I left with a great deal of respect for my hosts.

Forbes magazine also rate Denmark as the best business climate in the world, so I am very grateful to have had exposure to their business values and practices…all in all a great trip indeed.

So what defines the Danish? Here are a few conclusions as a result of 3 weeks enjoying their summer hospitality.

“Design” is what the Danish do best; there is a genuine pride and quality in the products they make and lifestyles they lead. Combine the sleek sophistication of Bang & Olufsen with Lego’s simple logic (both are Danish products) and you discover a reasoning that gets superior results.

This thinking is reflected in their quality cities; the classic and contemporary architecture is lovely and the public space and infrastructure built to last the test of time. The fully integrated bicycle network really is amazing and does have to be seen to be believed. There are 3 fully planned and implemented transport modes here, the rest of the world’s efforts pale in comparison. Cycling is as fundamentally as walking and driving in this country and it is awesome - to redefine your understanding of cycling please enjoy this video here.

Denmark does = Bikes. New, old, fast slow, 2, 3 and 4 wheels – they build weird and wonderful things and bike spotting is an entertaining pass time. Many say the most memorable think about Copenhagen is the beautiful women whizzing past all day and honestly it is impossible to avoid!

The food is excellent…”Noma” (meaning Nordic food) located on the Copenhagen waterfront is now listed as the world’s best restaurant. It must be good - it’s a 2 year waiting list! The quintessential Danish meal is rye or brown bread plus cold meats and seafood; put together you get smørrebrød–an open top sandwich that ranges from functional to an art form.

In a word Denmark is “Hygge” , which translates to “cozy”. With England on one side and Germany on the other you get the feeling they just like to get on with the job of being happy with minimal fuss. It’s a small country - they’re proud but not overtly confident. Danes are exceptionally friendly but humble…many speak 3 or more languages (very well I might add) as if it’s normal. And yes they are unfairly tall, slim, good looking, exceptionally fashionably dressed and (mostly) blond, men and women!

It is expensive (the GST is 25%) but Denmark is good value for money as everything works, is clean, organised and very reliable…goes to show high taxes can result in a good outcome, they are as happy as it gets remember.

It’s been great and I’m keen to bring the family back. I have been inspired and also hope to export a real Copenhagen bike network and culture (not just a lane) back to Adelaide. I will also fondly remember the wind turbines that were rarely far from view that says much about where they want to go in the future.

“Tak” (thanks) to my hosts and Adelaide University for the Scholarship that made it happen, I miss the adventure but am glad to be back in Adelaide with my family and friends. There are some great photos to be found on my Facebook page here - have a look!

The Advertiser's Election Odds

2010-07-08T20:04:00.006+09:30

I’m surprised about my Advertiser “election odds”; 8 to 1 is also ironic considering I won their own on line poll.

This table is from Thursday the 8th July at 8pm - the system ensures multiple voting is not possible and I did not contact everyone I know. I appreciate the poll means little but it does prove I have strong support and can mobilise the community for action when needed.

When people cast their vote they want to believe they are backing a winner, hence those odds do me a disservice. I believe they are wrong and out of touch with the Adelaide community and this blog is to assure readers and supporters I intend to win.

Local Government is the ultimate in “grass roots” and I am on the ground working to deliver results, listen and learn. Whilst not on the radio nor in the paper every week - my campaign strategy is cutting edge yet very simple. It’s about Adelaide’s Future – your community, family and friends…not about how good I think I am.

I care deeply about Adelaide’s future and think we need modern professional leadership that understands the contemporary challenges and opportunities cities are facing. My passion for cities and belief in Local Government has resulted in an real depth of well networked support on the streets of Adelaide. Be it small or big business, cultural and professional groups or a diverse range of city residents, I am engaging people and earning their support.

I also understand that people talk and actions speak louder than words. I have prepared for the election in a strategic and practical manner and will not rest until the votes are counted.

My heart and soul is in this and want the people of Adelaide to believe they are backing a winner when they vote or make sure their friends do. If you need to know for yourself please email or call me anytime…

Why an MBA & Summer School?

2010-07-04T23:49:00.008+09:30

Personal and professional development are important to me, I am passionate about learning, growing as a person and sharing ideas. My training and experience in planning cities spans 20 years; at 18 when the Multi Function Polis was announced I decided I would dedicate my professional life to the future of cities.

The photo is my graduation from a Graduate Dipoloma in Environmental Studies; I also have a Grad. Dip. in Urban Planning and a BA in Planning.

After election in 2007 I realised being a Councillor is as much management as planning - I was “in business”. This year is a $220 million budget and every week is governance, financials and a corporate culture that needs to evolve. This inspired me to expand my horizons and evolve my thinking and language - the result is soon to be an Adelaide University Masters in Business Administration. It has been superb; excellent people (teachers and students) and lots to learn about myself and wide range of relevant topics.

An MBA does not specialise but broadens one’s knowledge of business; I’ve undertaken 8 compulsory topics spanning leadership, economics, accounting, finance, global business, strategy, marketing and organisational management. I’ve also explored futures philosophy and undertaken the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course, all with Adelaide City Council at front of mind.

The opportunity study in Denmark came up via a scholarship to cover my fees. Students from over a dozen countries focus on doing business in Europe with topics including the EU, the energy market and cultural issues. My group assignment has been to develop a Middle Eastern entry strategy for a Danish boiler manufacturer Aalborg Engineering.

I finish this week with Strategy & Sustainability and just have 2 essays to complete. I am sad its over as its been a journey that has changed me personally and professionally. I’m more comfortable with who I am; I feel a sense of calm about my abilities, values and goals in life.

Will it help me if I become Lord Mayor of Adelaide? I believe so…good leadership listens, understands and motivates those with the skills for the job. It’s not about being an expert, its not even about the leader, but about having the personal skills and broad knowledge to facilitate effective outcomes as a team member.

I’ve invested in contemporary business training from a world class school, know Local and State Government intimately and am future focussed. With sound training, experience in the field and good people supporting me I am ready to deliver for the corporation and community.

Clipsal funding vs a diversified economy

2010-07-03T20:29:00.002+09:30

I find it unfortunate the Chairman of the Motorsport Board would call Adelaide City Council’s decision to withdraw $40,000 from a profitable event dripping in private sponsorship opportunities “stupid”. Council will still provide $40,000 in infrastructure costs and lose $35,000 in on street parking revenue; we do support the event, just not with a cash handout.

I’m Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and about to finish my Adelaide University MBA; this training tells me slinging insults is unbecoming of any Chairman, especially for 0.2% (thats 1/5th of 1%!) of the Motorsport budget - an amount Roger Cook described as “neither here nor there”.

This attack shows a lack of understanding of Local Government's role in stimulating the economy; to go where the private sector cannot. Why should council continue to fund profitable big business when we should seed innovation and create new opportunities?

Council has a limited sponsorship budget and significant demands – we support a wide range of events and communities. Start-ups struggle to get private sector funding because big events like Clipsal dominate the market; it is not until an event demonstrates it is worthy of investment/brand collaboration that they get consideration in the marketplace.

Council should be at the cutting edge, creating opportunity to stimulate the economy and communities in ways the private sector cannot. Those funds will now go to activating Hindley Street Laneways during the Fringe, helping the Irish and Lebanese Community get festivals running and reinvigorate the Festival of Ideas. Most of these will happen outside of “Mad March”, a move a majority tell me is much needed.

Being called stupid and suggesting a “backlash” sounds like bullying; certainly promoting a backlash on council is hardly conducive to economic progress. Is Mr. Cook offering solutions or problems to facilitate a diversified and innovative economy where Adelaide, not egos, are the winner?

I’m frustrated harassment is still a part of Adelaide’s way of doing business and hope to be part of an optimistic team that promotes entrepreneurship in small business and communities - we need to stimulate diverse economic opportunities all year round in Adelaide and I am sure Clipsal will be just fine without its Local Government freebee.

Soundwave 2011 is GO!

2010-06-17T09:55:00.002+09:30

Adelaide will have a 2011 Soundwave Festival and the parklands fees are 100% resolved. For the record the fees were ridiculously low at $3,000 (that’s 15 cents per ticket) and are now at a rate in line with other cities – a figure the event organisers accept as fair. Soundwave Festival promoter A.J. Maddah issued the following statement:

“The AAC have displayed sagacity and equity in the handling of this matter and management of the consultation process has been A1. We are pleased to continue to conduct the festival in Adelaide and to contribute to events' calendar in Adelaide.”

I received abuse on line regarding Soundwave simply because I am a Councillor. It was really frustrating as I never supported dramatic increases in Parkland fees and have worked hard to find a solution – I was on the side of Soundwave fans!

I'm 39 and work hard represent the views of the next generation but received stick because I was accessible via Facebook and Twitter – oh the irony.

It is my hope younger people understand that councils play a pivotal role in their quality of life and they get more involved – voting is not compulsory and young people almost never vote despite the fact they are the most active users of our city. It only takes 10 minutes too!

In November I have the chance to be the youngest Lord Mayor in Adelaide City Council history – whilst it’s not about age, I do hope that people under 40 that have never voted before are inspired to participate for the first time - I am giving them an option, lets hope they take it!

If you want to help me create history for Adelaide’s Future please get involved and drop me a line…

2010/11 Adelaide City Council Budget

2010-06-17T09:14:00.006+09:30

The $220 mill 2010/11 Adelaide City Council budget is 180 pages long - we do lots of good stuff! The information below (care of ACC) is just a taste of priorities and things I have personally pushed for – if you are interested in the full picture I can connect you to what is important to you…

Council’s priorities focus on initiatives to drive the goal of building a vibrant, populous and sustainable City for current and future generations. More than $1.3 million will go towards supporting events such as cultural festivals and the Fringe, whilst the highlights of the $67 mill allocated to capital projects include:

• $6.75 million - Victoria Square stage 1
• $5.1 million - City roads/footpaths
• $5.2 million - Adelaide Aquatic Centre roof
• $1.2 million - Rundle Mall improvements
• $5 million - Victoria Park
• $2 million - lighting & CCTV surveillance
• $1.5 million - North Terrace upgrade
• $1.4 million - underground powerlines
• $1 million - Whitmore Square eco affordable housing
• $800,000 - Adelaide Park Lands Trail
• $450,000 - Central Market upgrades
• $270,000 - public art
• $190,000 - new cleansing & recycling initiatives
• $80,000 - mobile computing services

Some key priorities for council include:

• New Business & Governance Model focussed on administrative efficiencies - changing the “red tape culture” to concentrate on creating opportunities, not constraints.
• Residential growth and affordable housing initiatives – making the city the place to live for all walks
• Integrated Design Strategy – a partnership with State Government to deliver big projects
• Rundle Mall Integrated Master Plan
• Walkable/cycling friendly Adelaide with integrated sustainable transport
• Water Security Action Plan
• Climate Change Action Initiatives reducing Council’s carbon emissions by 60% by 2012;
• Sustainability Development Plan Amendment ensuring new buildings are future proof

Things I have personally focussed on delivering with the council:

• $35,000 for Renew Adelaide - a grass roots movement to activate unused buildings
• Moving the Rundle St Markets to a better location - China Town or a Rundle Mall Laneway
• $40,000 for laneway murals – bringing council owned walls to life
• An Electric Car Strategy
• More drinking fountains, it’s the little things!
• Improving services such as city cleaning & a clean city educational campaign
• Solar Panels on the Central Market via Federal Government funding
• City services via an iPhone application
• Water security Action plan
• A focus on environmental sustainability
• Doubling of the Free WiFi to 205 hot spots
• Fair funding for parkland events (i.e. Soundwave)

Water Action Plan

2010-05-25T15:45:00.002+09:30

Many people believe water is the number one issue facing South Australia; in my opinion is it the most significant climate change adaption challenge Adelaide faces and I know many of you share this belief.

Currently Adelaide City Councils target is to reduce Council’s mains water use by 60% by 2012; the good news is we are nearly there. This has been due to the use of recycled water from the Glenelg-Adelaide Pipeline, commonly called the GAP. I have blogged about this before here.

To the end of April, use of mains water for irrigation of the park lands and streetscapes in 2009/10 was 65 megalitres, compared to 341 megalitres in 2008/09 – that’s a spectacular result. The extension of the GAP infrastructure to Victoria Square (south) and Hurtle Square in 2010/11 will further decrease mains water use.

What I proposed on Monday night was to go one step further. To actively engage the community in the development of a Water Action Plan. This is about Council providing leadership and supporting the community so they can be a part of the solution.

The reality is 45% of urban water use is for residential purposes and both our key sources of water (the River Murray and Hills catchments) are under stress. As such alternative sources must be found to secure Adelaide’s water supply.

The sad fact is 160 gigalitres of water flows out to sea in the form of storm water every year and capturing storm water will not only provide for a more secure future, but also has an additional benefit of stopping polluted storm water flowing into the Gulf.

There exist grants programs for businesses and residents to access for water sensitive gardens and rainwater tanks and I urge you to take advantage of these opportunities. More information can be found here.

Watch this space as I am hopeful we can further develop initiatives in conjunction with the community to ramp up the much needed response required one of the most pressing issues Adelaide faces.

Soundwave Festival

2010-05-12T14:35:00.002+09:30

I have received a number of complaints that council is stopping the Soundwave Festival from going ahead due to increased fees. This is not totally correct.

Council is considering a change to parklands fees to encourage quicker bump in and bump out times – this is to make sure the parklands are not fenced up any longer than they need to be.

We also need to rehabilitate these sights and that costs money. Keeping in mind festivals may have 30 00 people at more than $100 a go I am sure they can afford to pay a fair price to ensure the parklands are restored.

If not restored the festival is not sustainable and eventually the site will not be desirable for such events!

The reality is no decision has yet been made on increases to fees and charges for future music events in Adelaide; they are a little ahead of themselves and telling only one side of the story.

Council has written to the organisers seeking their feedback on a review of fees and charges for events in the Park Lands, as part of the draft 2010-11 Business Plan and Budget public consultation period.

I personally welcome organisers’ and festival goers submissions on these proposed changes which will be presented to Council on 25 May 2010.

Being a serious music fan who has missed precious few Big Day Outs I will be bending over backward to make sure we don’t send festival’s away from the Parklands; it’s the best place to celebrate living in this great city during the summer months!

More info is at Rip It Up - http://ripitup.com.au/article/893

Victoria Square is a national disgrace; It’s time for change.

2010-05-10T09:07:00.002+09:30

Today’s announcement should be greeted with enthusiasm; it’s a critical opportunity to look forward and make sure our Local, State and Federal leaders know that we as a community want action.

As the councillor that called for the Victoria Square process to begin over 2 years ago, I am determined to deliver on a project that will redefine and energise the heart of our great city. I will continue to do what I can, but this will only happen if the community supports the process.

In a world where everyone can buy customisable products, we expect to get exactly what we want and often nothing less is acceptable. The reality is we can only have one Victoria Square and this is an excellent design offered by some of Australia’s finest professionals.

I'm asking the community to not get lost in thinking their ideas are better than those of their next door neighbour, their local grocer or more importantly the eminent expects that have dedicated their lives to creating quality public space. What we need now more than ever is unity; a sense of opportunity and a desire to achieve an outcomes that will drive Adelaide forward and make us a more desirable place to live, work, shop, study and play.

Spread the word, no more bickering – help us get on with creating Adelaide’s future as a worlds most liveable city!

More information can be found on the Advertiser page @ http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/victoria-squares-100m-makeover/story-e6frea83-1225864255992

From this page, in summary the Master Plan includes:

KEEPING the Grote-Wakefield streets crossing open to daily traffic but closing it when major events are held.

PLANTING giant tree arbours on the perimeter of the square under which events can be held and stalls placed.

BUILDING an events stage in the square's northern tip in front of a lawned area for up to 8000 people that can be used for concerts and large public events.

INSTALLING a jumbo television screen on a movable arm to broadcast sporting and cultural events from around the world.

TREATING stormwater in a wetland that will be the centrepiece of an exotic garden in the square's south dotted with cafes.

MOVING the Three Rivers Fountain to the northern edge of the square.

TOURISM information booth.

Social Media - Facebook & Twitter

2010-05-04T12:17:00.003+09:30

Everyone knows about Facebook these days, latest data indicates 350 million people log on each month and now 175 million log on every day.

If Facebook were a country it would be the 3rd biggest at 350 million or the 6th biggest at 175 million. Either way, being the most accessed site in the USA as of now, it’s HUGE!

But what do you know about Twitter? The Advertiser has a great article by Cameron England you can read at http://bit.ly/9QbruK

It’s easy to read and has some good information about what it’s all about. I’m on Twitter and have learnt a lot, made some good friends and use it to provide information on what is happening at council and discover what is important to the people I have connected with.

I am passionate about innovation and think it’s an exciting time for technology, where smart phones and portable devices (such as the Ipad) are making people "digital movers". How we interact with strangers, our friends and the urban landscape is changing and there are valuable social, economic and environmental opportunities to be invented.

This is not about the internet anymore – it’s about people and how we build communities. The next generation are network natives and thus have different ways of spending and socialising; decision makers rarely appreciate the forces of change on the horizon and I think its time we had leaders that did.

I’m a strong supporter of understanding these tools and exploring innovative ideas to ensure Adelaide is a part of the 21C economy; I’m also the only Adelaide City Councillor on Twitter.

By all means follow me and get regular updates on what I’m up to - have a look by clicking on this: @StephenYarwood

Electric Cars in Adelaide

2010-03-31T13:09:00.002+10:30

Today we launched our first electric car charging station at the Grote Street Car Park; keep an eye out on the news tonight on Channels 2 & 9.

It’s been a big week for the future of electric cars in Adelaide because on Monday evening I got council to fund and prepare an Electric Vehicle Strategy to fast track their implementation.

There are nearly 30 models of plug in electric car likely to be on the market within 3 or 4 years and “Better Place”, a major electric car infrastructure company, estimates that by 2020 around 20% of cars will be electric.

I passionately feel Adelaide needs to be on the front foot and ready for this tidal wave of transport technology – we need to send a strong message that we are ready to play our part and able to show leadership in modern urban transportation solutions.

The opportunities are significant; zero emission urban commuting is a logical step to address the greenhouse gas emissions attributed to transport sector with lots of positive benefits.

I ask you to imagine a city that has cleaner air and no engine oil leaking onto the ground and into our waterways. To see a future where the quieter nature of electric cars means we can hear the birds sing and our café streets are bustling with more people than ever because they are pleasant places to be.

Indeed everything about electric cars makes for a more satisfying city experience…

Its true electric cars have a limited range of around 170km, but recent studies show that 97% of all Metropolitan Adelaide car trips are within this distance. If Council were to provide recharging points within the CBD this would further enhance their viability; at $2 per charge it’s also cost efficient in the long run.

Without getting technical there are also major financial and efficiency wins for our electricity grid. An ability to increase the mix of renewable is a massive benefit whilst charging cars at night time means our power companies waste nothing and have car batteries to tap into during extreme hot weather events – energy supply via a “smart grid” means less dependence on oil and a important step to renewables.

Due to its size and willingness to embrace innovation Adelaide is a perfect city for this new technology. Adelaide City Council has trialled an electric bus (Tindo) and more recently electric scooters; it seems only logical we show community leadership by expanding our own fleet to include some electric cars to get the ball rolling.

We are not alone; indeed if we move slowly will be a follower. The City of Sydney is soon to implement a small fleet of EVs and work with the State Government to support a more substantial roll out. Additionally when in San Francisco last year I also saw a number of plug in cars parked outside their town hall; thier Mayor drives an electric car!

I’m excited and hope I get the chance to plug and play as soon as possible…

A win for Adelaide's Future

2010-03-15T12:44:00.003+10:30

There were 2 especially good results at the Fringe Awards last night for the future of Adelaide.

Format Festival, who are doing the Renew Adelaide work, won an award and are over the moon.

As did Arcade Lane; they activated a laneway in need of some love. This sends an excellent message to the community and decision makers about the future of Adelaide's laneways.

I’m a big supporter of both so looks like some exciting opportunities to amplify are underway – I’m chasing funding for Renew and Laneways in the 10/11 budget.

Renew Adelaide

2010-02-26T12:32:00.001+10:30

The word on the street, and even more so on-line, is a group of enterprising young artists are pushing for night time activation of our inner city. Renew Adelaide is a non-profit, artist run initiative working to transform empty spaces and disused buildings via low cost artist and community run ventures; these of city users want liabilities to become opportunities.

The real champions are Brigid Noone and Ianto Ware, backed by a band of volunteers who seem unlikely to give up. This ambitious team believe in a vibrant Adelaide and have set about connecting the arts with council and property owners to create wins for all. Their inspiration was the successful Renew Newcastle project that facilitated short term agreements between property owners and creatives that activated the public realm and bought renewed community energy.

Elements of this movement are often underway in Adelaide, with council sponsoring numerous festivals and cultural events to stimulate public spaces. The real challenge is activating a privately owned built form that lies idle due to rules and regulations that only confuse and intimidate uninitiated; further hindered by Council’s historical risk adverse approach, the easiest way to deal with complex interrelated legislation.

Having seen and experienced the laneways of Melbourne first hand, Adelaide City Councillors and Executive have recently demonstrated a genuine preparedness to rethink and navigate these issues for opportunity creation. Once this code of regulatory conditions is cracked, a suite of quick wins are to be had; artists get edgy venues to exhibit, building owners get cleaned up property and real estate exposure (possibly even increased values over time), the community gets safer streets and more places to play and local businesses can begin to exploit an emerging night-time economy.

I am hopeful success will breed success and that Adelaide as a whole will get just that bit mojo and spread its creativeness into the cracks that provide a healthy breeding ground for ideas and imagination. If sustained, these conditions have a history (indeed a tradition) of resulting in artist led urban renewal.

What areas like the west end and our numerous laneways need is sustained reactivation through more permanent exhibition spaces, offices, retail, theatres and coffee shops. Low risk grass roots activities like Renew Adelaide can bring people back into these decaying opportunities for the kind experiences Adelaidians and visitors seek and treasure. There is not much to loose and a great deal of potential.

There is no question Adelaide is well and truly on the cultural map; however innovation and enthusiasm like this add valuable substance to the user experience and enhances Adelaide’s claim as the real deal for artists young and old.

The Renew Adelaide Team, with Fringe Director Christy Anthony and myself, will be discussing these themes and more at a Fringe Festival Forum at the Allan Scott Auditorium (UniSA City West) on March 12th, please join us and, if inspired, get involved.

Free Water for all

2010-02-22T14:16:00.002+10:30

I don’t get the whole bottled water thing - Australians spend more than $1/2 billion/year on bottled water, in 2009 sales increased by 10 %.

Why?! It pretty much comes out of a tap with a bit of treatment to make it taste good. Water should not be an expense – it’s a basic human right!

This evening I am asking Council to support the placement of water bottle refilling stations in the Central Market and Rundle Mall as a trial, with a view to rolling out a number though the city later this year.

Keep an eye out for these ATM style wall mounted units- they are great and I am sure will get plenty of use. It’s a basic service we have been remiss in providing due to health regulations and issues regarding vandalism. It's long overdue.

Improving access to filtered drinking water will do its bit to reduce health risks and encourage retention of empty bottles for reuse – which has bigger impacts than I first thought…

Apparently drinking one bottle of water has the same environmental impact as driving a car for a kilometre; which is ironic as often a litre of bottled water is more expensive than a litre of petrol.

It has also been estimated (Dept of Environment & Climate Change) that 200ml of oil is used to produce, package, transport and refrigerate each litre bottle of bottled water; this means 50 million litres of oil are used in the manufacture and distribution of bottled water in Australia every year.

So bring your own bottle - if we reduce our bottled water usage by just 50% we can take the equivalent of 6,500 cars off the road (greenhouse gas equiv) and save some money in the process – for beer and wine of course!

Mobile computing and Council

2010-02-03T15:09:00.002+10:30

Mobile computing and access to the web in the palm of your hand is the future of information interactivity; like the days where the horse and cart shared the road with the new car, today we have “smart phones” and “just phones” sharing the information super highway. I see a significant transformation underway…

Next week I will call on council to investigate an iPhone application that will improve connectivity to our services and information. Whilst early days, I believe this will be a highly efficient and effective way to provide services and interact with city users over time; be they residents, businesses, workers, students or tourists. The opportunities for Council are almost endless:

· Access to library database and bookings;
· Event planner/what’s on this weekend information;
· Traffic updates/car parking availability, including channeling traffic for road & fuel efficiencies;
· Public transport and bike path information;
· Places of interest and council facilities;
· Free wireless hotspots;
· Promotion of business partners such as State Government Services, the Festival & Fringe;
· Interactive history walking guide;
· Daily updates of interesting news; and
· Contact details for councillors, staff and social, environmental and business services that can help Adelaide go places.

All of this could be placed on an interactive map and used via a simple touch screen interface – how exciting!

Council could engage people in the community via consultation; possibly even a weekly poll on issues of relevance. City users could also feed into council (via photos or text) damaged or vandalised infrastructure that should be fixed. This is already being done in Boston, Pittsburgh and San Jose where 750 complaints have been logged via an iPhone app since October last year.

The reality is we all learn how to touch with our fingers before we figure out how to type or use a mouse and many would agree that iPhones app are often better than the actual website they represent, Facebook is an excellent example. Gone are the busy user interface, instead a simple touch screen.

Web sites are great for a limited amount of the day when you want to be in front of a computer; phone applications have usability when on the move, are more practical and easy to access when really needed.

I’m not saying everything will have to be an iPhone app, Google has recently announced an app store and more will inevitably follow. But at present the statistics are significant; Apple has shipped over 75 million iPhones and the App Store has served 3 billion downloads and claimed 99.4 percent of the mobile-software market.

With the iPad announced last week I am sure there is much more to come!

Increasing building heights for mutual benefit

2010-02-01T11:55:00.000+10:30

Whist I believe an iconic tall building landmark would be beneficial to Adelaide; I am more interested in building heights to grow the city population to achieve a number of mutual benefits.

More people mean city vitality, helping small and big businesses with additional people walking past their shopfront. City living is also widely considered more sustainable too; less water use, less cars on the road and a slowing of urban sprawl that consumes valuable farming land and isolates families in car dominated living distanced from everything.

It was recently reported that Australians lose more productivity to sitting in cars than any country in the world because of extremely low densities. The quarter acre block is great for some, but has become an obsession resulting in limited housing diversity. We have the biggest houses per average in the world which in part contributes to our title as “highest carbon emitters per capita”.

Building heights should not be polarised as a pro-development debate, nor about our skyline; but put forward as practical solution to provide a more appropriate mix of sustainable living options. Many young people don’t like gardening and enjoy city life and an aging population will need smaller, easier to manage, living arrangements close to the best social and cultural services.

20th Century management thinking still lurks…

2010-01-31T17:23:00.003+10:30

In 1892 Thomas Edison merged his business interests with the Thomson-Houston Company to see the birth of the General Electric Company; today GE is the world's largest company and the fourth most recognized brand.

In 1999 Jack Welch (CEO fron 1980-2000) was named "Manager of the Century" by Fortune magazine, having undertaken a financially successful 20 year change process at GE that out performed the market. Welch implemented a number of staged strategies to achieve the goal of becoming the biggest, diversified and profitable company in the world:

Stage 1: Restructuring the “hardware” – business reform
Welch decreed that all GE businesses would need to be number 1 or 2 in their industry or fixed, sold or closed. Welch sold over 200 underperforming businesses and freed up $11 billion in capital between 1981-90.

Stage 2: Software Initiatives – management and culture
GE emphasised management as a culture. Within 2 years of 200,000 employees had participated in a “Work Out” program workshopping ideas and making quick decisions; productivity doubled. Best practices” focussed on learning from other leading organisations resulting in better partnerships and manufacturing efficiency.

Stage 3: Going Global
From 1986 there was a focus on internationalisation/globalisation; by 2000 50% of GE business was outside of the US, compared to 20% in 1985. There was a major thrust when currencies were low and prices were good, including in Europe, Mexico and Asia.

Stage 4: Redefining Leadership
GE has a reputation for having “the most talent rich management bench in the world” due to its culture and training facilities. Welch was deeply committed to developing his people and personally reviewed the progress of the top 3000 executives, keeping a close eye on top 500.
GE invested heavily in its own training centre, which became a basis for cultural transformation.

Stage 5: Boundary-less behaviour
GE focussed on corporate culture that promoted seeking and sharing new ideas, regardless of their origins. Managers worked towards removing barriers to maximise the creation and sharing of good ideas and practices.

Stage 6: Stretch targets
Welch believed in using dreams to set business targets, with no real idea as to how to get there. There was also often rounding upwards of goals as “decimal points are a bore” in Welch’s opinion.

Stage 7: Service industries
Welch shifted GE business from manufacturing to financial services through more than 600 acquisitions. He encouraged managers to think “more along the food chain”, which ultimately changed the very nature of what GE did as a corporation.

Stage 8: Quality manufacturing
Welch became a convert to quality and efficiency programs which bought about substantial savings.

Stage 9: Quality people
Welch’s final program was a focus on the quality of all staff within GE via a program he called “A Players with 3 Es”; people with energy, energise and edge. He implemented a rating program between 1 and 5; anyone rated 5 (in the bottom 10%) was let go in a process of “weeding out poor performers”.

What was Jack Welch’s style?
Welch was defined as a “management theorist, strategic thinker, business teacher and corporate icon”. He was a passionate believer in the power of his people and more than half of his time was devoted to people issues.

He undertook “management by walking around” with unexpected visits, an emphasis on casual style, contact with 1000’s of managers via training and use of personal hand written letters; his trade mark.

Welch pushed his managers hard to perform, with significant bonuses and rewards. He also expanded the stock options to nearly one third of all employees, the high performers living the values of the organisation.

He encouraged managers to shun incremental change and aim for drastic leaps in improvements via an open honest culture; “a culture based on speed, simplicity and self-confidence – a small company culture where all felt engaged and everyone has a voice.”

Was he the best ever Corporate Leader?
GE’s performace was exceptional, but it did have some significant negative results during Welch’s time; based on 2000 data, the Political Economy Research Institute listed the corporation as the fourth largest corporate producer of air pollution in the United States. GE also fought a political battle to avoid cleaning up the Hudson River, which it had heavily polluted prior to 1980; they lost in 2002 when it was ordered to clean up a 64 km stretch.

GE was also portrayed badly in the 1992 Academy Award winning documentary “Deadly Deception” juxtaposing GE's "We Bring Good Things To Life" commercials with true stories of lives devastated by GE's involvement in building and testing nuclear bombs. Soon after the movie aired GE pulled out of the nuclear bomb business.

Additionally, during Welch’s time, GE was convicted of both defrauding the U.S. Department of Defense and of corrupt practices in the sale of jet engines to Israel.

Welch was slow to convert to quality assurance programs, being convinced only when told he was had an $8 billion inefficiency. He was also slow to adopt the internet as a market opportunity; potentially losing great revenue opportunities as such. He remains a climate change skeptic to this day.

The Future of Leadership
It was rewarding to have studied the man that built the world's largest company; but I also think a balanced perspective is needed. Today my MBA emphasises the need for an equilibrium between financial performance and social and environmental responsibility, funny to think only 10 years ago this was not the norm.

I was asked just a few days ago by a high profile Chairman of an influential Board if the next Council would be “pro green or pro development” – my answer was simple…both! I was surprised he was not impressed...

Here’s hoping was can move beyond 20th Century management thinking and balance economic objectives with our social and environmental responsibilities; something tells me there is a great financial opportunity here we don’t want to miss!

What's happening in 2010

2010-01-29T16:34:00.001+10:30

My apologies for not blogging regularly – MBA, baby (and teenager!), council life and a holiday got me out of sync...as you can imagine. I will be blogging more often from now on.

Personally going to be a busy year – I will finish my MBA in July with 2 subjects undertaken in Melbourne at Australia’s only Foresight and Futures school at Swinburne University. Also hoping to finish my studies by doing the compulsory “Global Business” at summer school in Denmark – if I get the scholarship!

As for council – I have a few interesting motions on notice up my sleeve that will generate some interest, and I have not ruled out running for Lord Mayor if I think I could win…

Open to questions and am keen to help people whilst I still have the opportunity – so by all means drop me a line at s.yarwood@adelaidecitycouncil.com.

Water at last!

2010-01-29T13:20:00.000+10:30

In January this year the Glenelg to Adelaide Park Lands (GAP) recycled water pipeline was officially launched, perfect timing!

The $76 million project will have significant benefit for the community, with the 30-kilometre pipeline network carrying 1.3 billion litres of recycled water from the Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant annually to irrigate the Adelaide Park Lands.

Adelaide City Council will be the first customer to benefit from the recycled water, which will greatly benefit the City’s Park Lands over the summer months; a great relief after the intense heatwaves experienced over the last few years.

Council made a contribution to assist in reticulating the GAP water and will be a regular customer, ensuring the projects financial viability. The water will be used for up to 95% of City Council irrigated areas, totalling 162 hectares of Park Lands.

Whilst the water will still cost ratepayers money and not every corner of the parklands will become green overnight, I personally will sleep better at night knowing our mature and growing trees will have a guaranteed lifeline of recycled water!

Private businesses will also be able to access the water and Adelaide University has plans to tap into the GAP to provide irrigation of sports fields and landscapes. More information on the GAP can be found at: http://www.gapreuse.com.au/

The Premier later announced that 15,000 new trees, including 1000 mature trees, will be planted in the Adelaide Park Lands over the next three years. The $300,000 mass planting will contribute to the Million Trees Program.

First politician to give up paper!

2009-08-17T09:29:00.004+09:30

I claim to be the first politician in Australia to give up paper!

Off my own bat I have been trailing a Dell XT2 tablet touch screen laptop for council meetings, briefings, memos and reports. I refuse to accept paper reports and council staff have been very supportive in helping me in the transition.

The average Councillor paper consumption is around 22,000 pages per annum - that’s a paper cost of $1,420 (including printing, energy, equipment etc) which emits 426 kilograms of carbon and uses 2,100 litres of water.

That means if all Councillors and the executive team went paperless (i.e. got dragged into the 21st Century) we would save around ½ million pieces of paper, 10 tonnes of carbon and a massive 50 000 litres of water!

A recent USA report indicated that around $440 million of paper use per year is wasteful in Federal Government Departments. That’s people printing, reading and then throwing it directly into the recycling bin…don’t you think it’s about time we rethought how we push information around?

Not only is the tablet-PC fun, easy to use and smaller than our fortnightly council agenda package, its brilliant for reading and annotating documents, better for the environment, cheaper and a much better system of information management.

The XT2 is a high-performance laptop capable of touch screen with your fingers or pen; with just a stroke of the screen you can scroll web pages, zoom in on graphics and maps, enlarge emails to aid reading and turn the page. It also recognises hand writing and speech to make things easier over time...now that is cool.

Overall I have found it a much more efficient system, I never lose paperwork, my desk is always tidy and I have a great tool for showing off photos quickly and easily. My life is beginning to merge into a single tool that helps me work, study and play. I'd urge you all to think about how you too can improve your productivity in the process of reducing your waste.

As a boy I dreamed of using such technology and believe this will change how we do business in the near future. One day I am sure everyone will go paperless and it is a privilege to be at the cutting edge for Adelaide City Council.

Its a boy! Oliver Alexander Stephen Yarwood

2009-05-01T11:19:00.016+09:30

On the 25th of April, ANZAC Day, Emily and I welcomed Oliver Alexander Stephen Yarwood.

Mum and Oliver are both doing very well – Emily is, and will be, a fantastic mother and I am very impressed with her calmness and positive glow. I am in awe and in love!

Oliver weighed 8 pounds and is a lucky guy – a public holiday for his birthday every year where the bars serve beer for breakfast and the Australian spirit is celebrated…nice one Digger!

The staff at Ashford Hospital were wonderful and the response from family and friends amazing – so many flowers, gifts and cards - over 100 Facebook comments. Thankyou everyone!

As a Councillor the world does not stop - within 3 days I attended a3 council meetings – including the 09/10 budget.

I will however focus on my wife Emily and Oliver for a couple of weeks – Emily is in need of rest and sleep so I excuse myself with a promise that there is much more to come on this blog.

What’s going on?

2009-04-19T11:38:00.002+09:30

Here’s an update on what is going on as I am likely to be a little quiet for the next 2 weeks.

My wife Emily is due this Thursday – it’s an exiting time as we don’t know if we are having a boy or a girl. With only days to go we are very ready; it feels like Christmas only much more random.

I have 2 MBA exams in the next 2 weeks; Marketing should be a breeze but Accounting will be a challenge. With a baby around the corner it makes it that bit trickier!

The Budget will be passed in a couple of weeks for public consultation so there is much going on behind the scenes at this very moment– I have pushed very hard on some big things like:

- Funding for a Community Garden in city south;
- Funding for Vic Square;
- Upgrading Gawler Place – our laneway with the greatest potential;
- Privatising the Rundle Street Markets at a saving $350k/year; and
- A new management system for the central market -visitor numbers are going backwards.

I’m also pushing hard on some basics like:

- Cigarette butt littering – more bins and better enforcement;
- Street Cleaning – more money for targeted cleaning;
- Business and community sustainability grants – for smaller power bills;
- Motorbike parking opportunities; and
- Street recycle bins – finally!

I am having a great time blogging; I have plans to blog on topics such as community gardens, Adelaide’s future population, transport, councillor benefits, Victoria Square, climate change, the parklands, the Central Market’s future and much more…suggestions for blogs are more than welcome!

So please come back knowing I will be quiet for 2 weeks as I take study and maternity leave.

The first Fair Trade Council in SA!

2009-04-15T09:46:00.002+09:30

Last night Adelaide City Council became the first Fair Trade Council in SA and the first Capital City in Australia to sign up - I feel proud but especially want to thank Deanna Howland and Jacqui Emery for their help.

As we stuffed our faces on Easter chocolate, around 80 000 children died due to poverty related illness. Tonight 800 million will go to bed hungry; 12 million people will die from hunger this year .

Fair Trade is about acknowledging that the global financial system does not work for all; that businesses like Adelaide City Council need to accept their corporate social responsibility and make ethical purchases that are a part of the poverty solution.

Products certified with the Fair Trade Label guarantee that the Third World producers are paid a fair price, have good working conditions and that no child labour was used.

It is also about producers practicing more sustainable farming methods - by limiting harmful chemicals, farmers produce more natural crops and reduce their impact on the land their children will inherit. A higher price for goods also means better healthcare, education and greater community resilience for a more prosperous future. Fair Trade is about raising the social and environmental bar on production practices and prices in the developing world for a more level playing field – we must not take advantage of those less fortunate than us.

Having been exposed to extreme poverty in the Philippines, India and Nepal I am passionate about our global social responsibility; with over 1 billion people living in extreme poverty we must accept that it is our problem and the decisions we make every day have an impact.

Organisations must take their corporate responsibility seriously to be sustainable and respected in the marketplace. With a higher level of consumer awareness than ever before, Local Government should play a key role in educating their local communities and be a part of a better future.

The Power of Networks

2009-04-03T08:27:00.002+10:30

I’m experimenting with the internet as a way to engage with people who are as passionate about Adelaide’s future as I am.

Being a Councillor is not easy, you get paid $15,000 for mountains of complex work and spend much of your time reading and attending meetings late into the evening.

Going the extra yards to keep my finger on the community’s pulse (which is the real job) and keep people informed/engaged is a time intensive challenge – especially when people expect a personal relationship with their local councillor.

I have over 100 000 daily stakeholders in my ward; if 1% want 15 minutes of my time each year that’s 6 weeks Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm a year; no reading agendas, attending meetings or keeping my community informed. I can assure you there are many that require a lot more!

I try hard to make myself available because it's important:

This blog (please spread the word)
Skype: stephen.yarwood (I have a web cam)
Email: S.yarwood@adelaidecitycouncil.com
Phone 0400 000 944
Facebook: Deputy Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood
Linked In: Stephen Yarwood

I am not sure Twitter is really all it’s cracked up to be and am yet to tackle MySpace - should I?

I dreamed as a boy of having a seamless and ubiquitous electronic lifestyle (science fiction style) that would make my life simple and its getting closer - I have asked administration to assist me in “going digital” and work is underway.

There are some good reasons for this:

- The average age of Adelaide residents is declining, making the internet highly relevant;
- I can engage with the wider South Australian community –important for a Councillor thinking beyond his area’s borders;
- It saves me time and money, both of which I have little of;
- Most businesses are on line and I want to tap into them as well; and
- It saves paper and its fun!

I want to push the boundaries on the “power of networks” because I believe change outside the influence of the mainstream media is possible and that we need choices.

Please let people know there they have a choice and invite them to watch this space…I’m also open to ideas of how I can improve my drive for democracy in the digital dimension.

The Lord Mayor of Melbourne…

2009-04-02T12:45:00.001+10:30

Negative statements in the media are certainly not my thing, but I must say the Lord Mayor of Melbourne’s “jokes” about Adelaide are unprofessional.

I enjoy keeping it real with a down to earth sense of humour, but having a go at other Australian cities is simply inappropriate and an insult to the office he holds and the people he represents.

Being the Lord Mayor of a City is a true privilege; you have been trusted as a leader in your community. That means helping define the culture of your community by offering constructive ideas and opportunities that make a positive difference to the future.

I suggest Mr Robert Doyle concentrate on what really counts; things like water, climate change, the economy and supporting his community, his state and his country instead of making himself and the office of Lord Mayor sound trivial.

The busiest time of year…

2009-03-31T09:12:00.002+10:30

March/April is flat out at Council with the implementation of many events ACC supports – ACC does a great deal to ensure the Fringe, Clipsal, WOMAD and more run smoothly.

There was the Indian (MELA) Festival and World Festival on last weekend and the Indonesian Festival is on this weekend, as is the International Rugby 7s - all sponsored by ACC.

We are also gearing up to finalise next years budget with Councillors looking to implement their ideas via resources and funding. Issues emerging last night included Zoo infrastructure in preparation for the Panda’s, community use of the Box Factory and approx $19 million in 09/10asset renewal.

The next few weeks will be focused on the 100’s of projects that need funding and spreadsheets will litter my office. I am looking to support what my constituents want and what I believe is the right thing for Adelaide’s future as a capital city.

I’m keen to get action on Vic Square, find more community/business sustainability project money, privatize the Rundle Street Markets (saving $300k/year!), research new management structures for the central market precinct, get 3 year funding for Precinct Groups (for certainty), have greater focus on cigarette butt littering, start a sustainability amendment to the Development Plan and make Adelaide the first Fair Trade Council in SA.

These are but a few of the projects I have on the go and I seek your input – now is the time!

Why Rotary?

2009-03-27T18:08:00.003+10:30

I write this blog in Mt Gambier - I’m MC for the District 9500 Annual Conference. I have thus far gained a few laughs and had a great time. The theme is "the environment" and today we heard speakers about Trees for Life and Salisbury’s visionary wetlands program.

I am a member of The Rotary Club of Adelaide Light and involved on the Group Study Exchange Committee that sends you professionals on cultural exchange programs to countries all over the world. I was a team member to the Philippines in 2007 and had an amazing experience visiting clubs and their projects. It changed my outlook on poverty and I carry this with me always…

So what is Rotary? Their motto is “Service Above Self” and there is a “4 way test” as follows:

1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

In general Rotary in Australia is dominated by retired, or near retired people; the average age is above 50. Yet there are clubs such as the Rotary Club of Adelaide Edge (for 20-30s) that are getting younger people involved and breathing a new energy into Rotary Australia.

Rotary is an international organization that has done amazing things like nearly eradicating polio. Where I went in the Philippines, and in many other countries, clubs are often dominated by young members; they socialize heavily within their network, commit large amounts of time and money and have so many interesting projects on the go.

In the Philippines, where there is a great deal of poverty, Rotary is amazingly relevant and certainly a force to be reckoned with regarding human welfare. Medical missions, water pumps, dental workshops, feeding programs in schools and micro-agriculture and aquaculture….the list goes on.

The power of Rotary is jaw dropping …the local Mayor, Senator, Doctor, Lawyer, Banker, Engineer, Senior Government Administrator and high flying business man and woman is involved in the Philippines and this is repeated in many countries.

Regardless of location, Rotary is also about fellowship…good times, good friends, laughter and quality conversation. But in the Philippines it was also about singing, drinking beer (in ½ of the clubs) and being on the front line when helping those in dire poverty, and they do a great job!

Most importantly they are all volunteers and you know when you give time or money to Rotary projects its going directly to those in need…no big salaries, not consultants, just local communities on the ground working hard to make a difference where it counts.

My GSE experience put the “International” in Rotary International.

For those silly enough to ask, there is no “secret handshake”, no special membership requirements (except a heart of gold) and no pressure…just good fun! It may not be for everyone but I think we all need to do some community service and I can honestly say it suits me to a tee.

The National Mainstreet Conference in Fremantle.

2009-03-24T09:59:00.005+10:30

Back to the Future
The move towards localised communities and away from big box shopping centres is gaining momentum. Like many regions, the Western Australian Planning Department is pushing hard for Transit Orientated Development (TODs); focusing on mainstreet revitalisation via increased residential densities connected to rail and bus.

The other ‘retro’ trend is restoring laneways as per the magnificent work of Melbourne’s Rob Adams. Network surrounding mainstreet have become uninviting with run down heritage façades; there is great potential for nightclubs, cafes or residential development that draw people in and add character and vitality.

Support the rise of authenticity and diversity!
Andy Wimbush’s (New Economics Foundation) presentation discussed ghost and clone towns and their economic impact on local communities.

All over Great Britan local businesses are being pushed out by retail franchises that result in mainstreet cloning ; local businesses will have dropped by nearly a third in the two decades to 2010. The death of the high street is underway.

Local dollars are drained out of the community at accelerating rates; for example US $50 000 spent in a small business can sustain one job, yet it takes US $250 000 in a supermarket to sustain one less skilled job.

I urge you to support small business because your dollar will stay in your local community and have longer lasting benefits. More information is available at http://www.neweconomics.org/

Mental Speedbumps – an alternative perspective
David Engwicht, author of “Mental Speedbumps”, is an entertaining and innovative thinker on traffic, urban design and community development who got us to move the tables and chairs away and sit on the floor for something different.

He talked about his experiences of “place making” for City of Wodonga; getting people out of their homes and onto their street. He stressed the role of people replacing urban design and engineering as the most important element to making mainstreets work.

His story was both inspiring and sobering, concluding with an announcement that he has just resigned because the Council election had seen his plans for the mainstreet rejected – Wodonga was not ready for the change.

Competing with the Shopping Centres
David West is a pre-eminent expert on retail management and Adelaide is lucky to have his services – he is quite literally “Mr Rundle Mall”.

David’s talk was on “Business Improvement Districts” (BIDs) in the UK, which are mainstreet working together (like a shopping centre) to coordinate planning, marketing, cleaning and more.

Shopping centres often have the advantage of being owned by one company, yet mainstreets are generally made up of a number of landowners and small retailers. This is a disadvantage that, if not managed, can and will hold them back as a retailing force.

I am hoping to progress BIDs so our main streets can punch above their weight in the Adelaide retail hierarchy and bring more life to our character streets. A good start would be 3 year fuding for our precint groups so they have greater certainty!

I’m a lucky guy!
The conference was a dream come true - I met with a great number of Mayors, Councillors, town planners and more and was in my element.

I especially enjoyed my in depth conversation with Perth’s dynamic Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi and their Manager of Strategic Planning Mrs Sarah Stark. Both gave me an insight into another capital city and their strategic planning issues; I hope there are ongoing benefits from this relationship.

Mainstreet 2011 – Adelaide?
South Australia had an impressive representation from 6 different local communities/councils and there has been much discussion about bidding for the 2011 conference. Work, via myself and a small team, is underway so fingers crossed, watch this space and enjoy your mainstreet!

I am disgusted!

2009-03-11T16:02:00.000+10:30

Take a moment to follow the comments thread on the following article:

ADELAIDE City Council meetings could be beamed world-wide following a push to install a webcam in the chamber.

Deputy Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood said he wanted to increase accountability and "push the council into the 21st Century".

"It's not everyone's cup of tea, but there are worse things on TV," he said.

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,25169779-2682,00.html

There are approved comments on the site with references to me being stupid and hair brained and council being in the dim dark ages and self indulgent silver spooners losing the plot.

Frankly I am disgusted that the Advertiser publishes such abusive and inaccurate information about the council and its members and hope that this blog can gain wider readership so people can REALLY know what happens at the Adelaide Town Hall!

Please come back regularly and if you know of people that are interested spread the word cause it will only get better!

Heritage is a strategic advantage

2009-03-11T10:51:00.006+10:30

Nathan Paine of the Property Council was not accurate in last weeks Messenger when he stated the guidelines for heritage listing have not changed “in recent times”. The last heritage survey was undertaken in 1992 and the Development Act was introduced in 1993 with guidelines to redefine heritage identification, registration, conservation and development.

Furthermore he suggests the global financial crisis is not a good time for listing, yet I am sure the past or future boom times would have resulted in the same assessment - so when is a good time when all you are interested in is immediate financial opportunity?

The reality is that the State Government and Adelaide City Council have together agreed to list city heritage assets together via a “Statement of Intent”. Both have been advised by their planning departments to do this confidentially so buildings are not demolished in haste; a standard planning practice administered via Development Act rules set up for this very purpose.

What is the point of flagging a heritage listing only to see it demolished before the debate is actually had? Once listed, owners of buildings will have more than one chance to argue their case to influence the final outcome.

The political landscape is littered with attempts to finalise heritage listing in Adelaide, unlike Melbourne where this matter was resolved 20 years ago. The result is a beautiful, economically successful and highly respected city - all done whilst protecting the heritage fabric that provides a point of difference in a world dominated by cost effective homogeneous high rise architecture.

The fact is labour costs and accountability to shareholders means we will never again see architecture with such exceptional detail – once gone they will never ever be repeated. Throw away lines about being “anti-progress” are ill informed and lacking the foresight that reflects the very reason we are having this Global Financial Crisis – the “here and now syndrome”.

Heritage listing should not be labelled “anti progress”, it is good for business because it recognises why people like coming to Adelaide. If we want to be an international tourist and business destination, visitors need to remember Adelaide as beautiful place; not “just another city that looks like any other”. The new rules will provide opportunity for contemporary architecture to merge with the old and even at times rise out of their core, with a number only having their façade protected.

Heritage listing also provides access to the single largest heritage incentive scheme in Australia, with Adelaide City Council offering owners a share in $1 million per year to restore or maintain their properties – that’s council putting their money where their mouth is.

As a community we have to protect our past to create a future with style; hence I ask that people take a balanced view and don’t believe the single sided hype about listing this never to be repeated architecture.

It seems a shame to spell out the facts and in doing so deflate yet another opportunity to bash Adelaide City Council. Our heritage should be a big part of our future and that is why your State and Local Government is working together to ensure it is a strategic advantage that makes our future prosperous.

An electric car for my birthday - please!

2009-03-03T11:05:00.004+10:30

ACC is trialing to electric bikes for parking inspectors as well as our city boasting Tindo – the worlds fist solar powered bus. I had a ride to the pub last week and it is smooth and quiet…a refreshing change for our city streets.

At the Capital City Committee last week I was told there are 11 electric cars in Adelaide - so keep your eyes peeled and if you own one please take me for a spin!

My dream car these days is a Tesla Roadster – pictured right for anyone willing to buy me one at around US$100k. This fully electric car from California does 0-100km/hour in about the same time as a Porsche 944 – a blistering 4 seconds. If it’s good enough for George Clooney, please please buy me one for my birthday!

A quick Google search tells me the race is on. A US $10 million” X-Prize” is on offer to build the world's first mass production-ready vehicle that exceeds 100 miles per gallon – with companies like Google in the race.

Subaru is now testing the “R1e”, General Motors is building the “Volt” (due 2010), Mitsubushi the iMiEV, Chrysler have three prototypes, BMW are leasing 500 electric Minis (the Mini-E pictured) in a “real-world R&D program” and Nissan have announced the future belongs to “cars with cords” with plans to roll off the production line next year.

Work has also commenced on a $175 million electric car factory in Kentucky to manufacture the “ZAP” a sexy 3 wheeler sports car – see image – nice!

Aptera, perhaps the most unusual looking of all, plans to roll cars off the production line late this year – pretty funky and certainly designed to turn heads and challenge the norm when it comes to getting from A to B.

Times are a changing people and the game is at hand for a dramatic change in how we live, consume and spend our hard earned dollar. Soon the streets will be full of small quiet cars and dining outdoors in Gouger or Rundle Street will be neither a smelly or noisy experience.

V8’s are old technology and destined to head the way of our friends the dinosaurs. If South Australia is to become a relevant part of the future economy we need to move with the times and show that we want to be part of the solution rather than a part of the problem.

So start putting some money aside so you too can make a fashion statement in coming years with a car that looks good and is cheap to run.

A week in the life of a Deputy Lord Mayor

2009-03-01T12:25:00.001+10:30

I am regularly asked what being the Deputy Lord Mayor entails – it’s a unique job that one never dreams of doing until the resolution is passed and the year begins. The defining factor is the hours required, being evenings and the weekend…just when family and friends are free and keen to catch up.

Being expected to attend community meetings, openings, ceremonies and the like is fundamental to the role and my personal relationships have, at times, been strained.

I know who my true friends are now; I am surrounded by people who are understanding about seeing less of me and proud of what I want to achieve for Adelaide’s Future, as well as personally.

I attend a Council meeting fortnightly on Monday evenings and this week’s agenda was around 600 pages long (yes I actually read it!). In 4 hours we discussed:

• The Torrens Lake;
• A possible Adelaide Museum;
• The Strategic Resources Plan;
• Nominations for Local Government Association Committees;
• Parklands acoustic modeling;
• The condition of the parklands trees;
• Street closures for parties such as St Patrick’s Day;
• Capital works;
• Council quarterly performance;
• Thinkers in Residents funding;
• City Heritage Matters; and
• Much much more!

Tuesday I attended council briefings for 1 of the 3 hours before heading off to represent the Lord Mayor, with functions this week including:

• Opening the TropFest Film Festival at the Garden of Unearthly Delights with a speech;
• Attending the Adelaide University Scholarships Presentation Ceremony;
• Meeting with his Excellency the Polish Ambassador to discuss what Adelaide can do for Poland and what Poland can do for Adelaide;
• Attending the Governor’s Garden Party to celebrate the contribution of culturally diverse communities in South Australia; and
• Attending the Premier’s Reception to celebrate the contribution of members of the African community to South Australia.

I also attended a number of Fringe events as a Councillor, or friend of people running events, including launches for 3 exhibitions including the Fringe content on the Rundle Lantern.

Its not all “front of house” and I have been involved in lots of issues including:

• Meeting with staff from the Zero Carbon Network;
• Meeting with staff from the Clean Tech Network;
• Lunch to hear Professor Barry Brooks speak on how much trouble we really are in when it comes to climate change;
• Breakfast with the CEO of the Adelaide Tourism and Convention Authority (I am a Board Member) to chat on various matters;
• Coffee with a friend and mentor, to discuss life, the universe and meditation; and
• Chasing constituent matters regarding late night bongo drummers, A-Frames needing relocation, the future of the Rundle Street Markets, a possible Night Market in China Town, management options for the Central Markets and Victoria Square matters.

Additionally I have seen Fair Trade move a step closer to realisation and $100K of Local Government Association money will soon be spent for climate change community education – focusing on regional Local Government Councillors who are yet to get the message.

I attended the quarterly Capital City Committee meeting with the Lord Mayor, Ralph Clarke and 2 of 3 State Government Ministers. We discussed the impeding Capital City Committee Bicycle Forum, green roofs, electric cars and sending me to the World ICLEI (Local Government for Sustainability) Congress in Edmonton Canada in June to speak on Adelaide’s climate change progress.

We had a special council meeting on Thursday to decide on the plan to upgrade the Adelaide Oval Grandstand, consider the purchase of a strategic property and approve a women’s soccer club building in the parklands.

My wife and I attended the Adelaide Film Festival’s Kanchivaram (highly recommenced!), and on Friday night with my daughter we attended the opening Fringe Festival, took in Lehmo’s show and the Pyrophone Juggernaught – all great fun.

Yesterday saw a year since my wife Emily and I were married at the Town Hall. To celebrate we saw the award winning Slumdog Millionaire before dinner and an early night (for a change!) to reflect on our Indian honeymoon, which began a year ago today.

I also attended University on Wednesday night for my MBA and kept up-to-date with the 40-50 emails I receive daily on a wide range of issues.

What I didn’t do this week that I am also involved with includes:

• The Adelaide High School Governing Council;
• The Adelaide Prize committee (to determine a prestigious architecture award); and
• Preparing for the Rotary District Conference in Mt Gambier as MC in late March.

I also invested valuable time into being a fun and reliable dad, dedicated husband to my pregnant wife and my hobbies such as music and exercise.

Thanks for reading – wishing you a great week and hope you enjoy the Fringe!

Living on the Fringe

2009-02-27T11:31:00.005+10:30

30 degrees outside but a very cool time to be in Adelaide – it’s the Fringe!

The Fringe Parade is back after a 2 year break and the Yarwood clan will be there soaking it up and hope you are too.

Walking down Rundle Street last night after the Lantern La Lumiere launch (new designers offering Fringe content on our big screen - a must see and free) felt like a Friday night; I’m sure the beers I’d had probably helped.

People were spruiking “two for one tickets”, whilst the Advertiser has been promoting$10 deals…there are no excuses not to enjoy and I have high hopes this will be one of the best Fringe's ever despite the recent financial doom and gloom.

I always wondered what council did with all its money; now I know. Council has thrown buckets of cash and “in kind support” to the Fringe, Garden of Unearthly Delights, Adelaide Film Festival, TropFest, Clipsal 500 (to provide free public transport) and WOMADelaide. Whilst people want to see tangible results, such as North Terrace and Victoria Square, it is easily forgotten we also play a pivotal role in supporting the arts from the big festivals to individual artists.

As a councillor it’s a privilege (and fun) to help support the cultural expression of our city by having money to invest in entertainment and art. I’m keen to further support multi-cultural communities so they can share their food, dance, music and beer with us…keep an eye our for IndoFest and MELA the Indian festival – both very soon and in part funded by ACC.

These events are a big part of the reason Adelaide a great place to enjoy all year round – but especially in our wonderful “Mad March”. Handy too when it’s your birthday and ready to party - so bring it on and live for the Fringe!

Good news for the Torrens

2009-02-24T10:13:00.002+10:30

Indeed there was an unfortunate error in letting out 300 ML of water from the Torrens Lake, be it human or technological. Council is still determined to get to the bottom of what exactly happened, but let’s face it, errors happen…who does not make at least one good mistake a year??!

What bothers me is the sudden decision by many to care about the Torrens despite over 17 tonnes of waste being pulled out in the last 10 days. That’s not including the pollutants and waste that have daily seeped in year in and year out, ensuring our Torrens River and Lake are a toxic waterway gasping for life.

I am sure you do not litter, but do you insist your friends and family don’t throw their cigarette butts on the ground when the finish? Please do!

This event has not been the disaster the mainstream media would have us believe. Years ago the Torrens Lake was drained every two years to be cleaned and this process is long overdue, albeit unplanned and not the best time.

Council staff has done a brilliant job of taking advantage of this opportunity by:

• Removing over 17 Tonnes of rubbish;
• Working to eradicate the Carp;
• Implementing a planting program of appropriate water vegetation to improve the natural habitat; and
• Protecting local animal life.

The water level has risen dramatically from underground sources. Over one half a meter within the first few days and 230mm last week. There are no smells, no dust and people are not cancelling their trips to Adelaide because the Torrens is down!

I am pleased the Highbury quarry water is high in sulphate and inappropriate as a Torrens refill– at over $½ million it would have been a waste of money, money that can be spent on transitioning to sustainable living rather than fighting against Mother Nature.

The simple fact is we live in the driest state of the driest continent on the very edge of the second biggest desert in the world. Furthermore we are in the middle of a serious drought and facing some tough decisions about how our community will cope today and tomorrow.

With flooding in Queensland the size of South Australia and fires reaping death and destruction in Victoria, these events are an important message that we are not the masters of nature but that nature is our only true master.

So the water level is down, big deal…lets stop to think about all the farmers that lives are being devastated by a more serious lack of rain that is needed to feed not only their families, but ours. What of the Murray? Now that is serious...

The only thing Adelaide City Council, and all of us for that matter, should be doing is praying for rain and planning for a future that works with, rather than against our host, the Adelaide Plains.

Adelaide's Future

2009-02-20T13:36:00.001+10:30

By 2020 Adelaide will show leadership in sustainability and export it to the world. Our city centre will be clean and green, boasting a complete tram loop, many more people in eco-friendly apartments and highly accessible infrastructure including a new super school.

Adelaide will be a city full of pedestrians with King William Street car free on weekends, like Swanston Street in Melbourne, leading to an acclaimed Victoria Square.

The Central Market will be solar powered and provide local produce with zero waste. Next door a new Little India and expanded China Town will be the gateway for our Asian neighbors who visit regularly to do big business and savor our food and culture.

The debate over our heritage and parklands will be long gone – the parklands will be world heritage listed and enhanced with well planned infrastructure that ensures they are a pure delight and used by tens of thousands of people every day.

Our built heritage will have been embraced by exciting modern architecture that respects the past in creating our colorful future. Perhaps we have a 70 storey building, or two, reaching for the sky as bold statements of our reinvigorated aspirations!

The Rundle Lantern will have been the beginning of a new age that combines urban art and street lighting – low energy LED lighting will shine brightly throughout the city, our historical and contemporary architecture a stunning canvas that people come to admire.

Education and the arts, including weekly multicultural festivals, will be the backbone of a city that is smart, creative, prosperous and stimulating – where young people from the world over live, learn and play in a globally connected community.

Welcome to my blog!

2009-02-20T12:38:00.002+10:30

I have been considering ways to share my experiences and connect with the broader community - I believe in keeping people informed and want to provide greater accountability.

I trust you enjoy my scribe...I certainly intend to make it informative, entertaining and interesting as I journey through the fast moving maze of being an elected member of the oldest local government in Australia.

I also plan to offer an insight on what is happening in my own life as well as at ACC – it’s an exciting time with my wife expecting a baby in April!

Please feel free to drop by once a week as I plan to make 2-3 "short and sweet" entries over this time frame.

Comments are welcome…