• Community desire for better communication and transparency from Council
• Need for improved trust between Council and residents
• Importance of involving community in decision-making processes
• Potential for using technology to improve community engagement
• Need for better information sharing and online resources

The community feels disconnected from Council decisions and wants to have a greater say in shaping their local area. There is a desire for more open communication and accountability.

• Climate change mitigation as a key priority
• Support for energy-efficient infrastructure and programs
• Interest in eco-tourism and sustainable practices
• Importance of bushland rehabilitation and maintenance
• Interest in smart city initiatives (e.g., micro-grids, solar energy)

While views varied on the actions that should be taken, residents are increasingly aware of climate change impacts and want their local government to take a leading role in environmental protection and sustainability.

• Balancing tourism benefits with resident needs
• Interest in developing unique tourism offerings (e.g., dark sky tourism)
• Need for careful management of peak time stress on local infrastructure
• Interest in supporting local businesses and economy
• Need for better employment opportunities within the region
• Potential for leveraging tourism for economic benefits

While recognising the economic benefits of tourism, residents are concerned about its impact on their quality of life and local infrastructure and want to ensure a balance between visitor attractions and community needs.

The community wants local job opportunities and a thriving local economy to support their livelihoods and reduce commuting needs.

• Focus on road maintenance and sealing priorities
• Importance of public transport and accessibility
• Need for improved waste management
• Maintenance and access to parks and green spaces
• Maintenance and access to trails and footpaths
• Importance of water management and maintenance of drains
• Preserving small town feel and managing development

The community wants to ensure their basic needs are met efficiently and effectively, with a focus on improving daily life through better roads, transport, and access to essential services.

• Emphasis on supporting all life stages within the community
• Focus on affordable housing and addressing homelessness
• Importance of community spaces and facilities
• Need for improved education and childcare services
• Better health and wellbeing services, including aged care support
• Technology to improve services

There’s a strong desire for a connected, supportive community that caters to all age groups and addresses key social issues like housing affordability and homelessness.

• Balancing budget constraints with community expectations
• Focus on asset management criteria and decision-making processes
• Exploration of revenue-raising opportunities
• Reduce council spending/rates
• Need for long-term financial planning

Residents are looking for stability and forward-thinking leadership that goes beyond short-term electoral cycles to address long-term challenges.

The community wants assurance that their rates are being spent wisely and that Council is planning for the long-term financial sustainability of the region.

• Consideration of emergency preparedness in infrastructure planning
• Importance of road safety and accessibility for emergency vehicles
• Climate change adaptation and resilience

Given the area’s susceptibility to natural disasters, residents want to feel secure and prepared for potential emergencies.