Wednesday 8 February 2012

Back to school

On behalf of our Councillors and staff I would like to wish all the students who have returned to school the very best for 2012. I hope you are all refreshed and looking forward to the year ahead which I'm sure will be filled with many exciting opportunities and experiences.

Slow down for school zones

As a busy mum I know how hectic this time of year can be juggling new routines, homework, sport and all the other challenges of being a parent. Sometimes this means forgetting to slow down particularly when driving.

It is important to be aware that the majority of school zones operate between 8am–9:30am and 2:30pm–4pm on gazetted school days.

RTA school zones are designed to reduce speed in and around school areas for the benefit of pedestrians, families, teachers and carers.

Fines and demerit point offences apply for: speeding, approaching children’s crossing too quickly to stop safely, double parking, stopping on or near a children’s crossing and using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

Ultimately this is all about the safety of our children. Take the time to park and ensure your children arrive at school and return to you safely, use pedestrian and light crossings. Obey the no stopping and standing signs even if that means parking a bit further away. If your children catch public transport stress the importance of being aware that not all motorists stop at pedestrian crossings.

Kids learn by the examples we set for them so please slow down in school zones.

Woollahra takes up the 10% Challenge

Last week I was very pleased to sign Woollahra Council up to the 10% Challenge, which encourages businesses, organisations and other Council’s to reduce carbon emissions by 10%; or to reduce energy and fuel consumption by 10%.

The initiative is good for the environment but it is also an opportunity to save money on energy and transport costs.

We want to take action and be environmentally responsible for encouraging our staff, residents, local businesses and schools to take the 10% Challenge with us.

For more information or to register, visit: www.10percentchallenge.com.au which has a wide range of information, as well as tips and advice to make it easy for communities to take part and start saving too.

Library Lovers Day

Celebrate Library Lovers Day with a morning tea hosted by the Woollahra Library & Information Service on 14 February from 10.30am at Council Chambers. You can meet Libby Hathorn, the award-winning children’s author and poet will be guest speaking and talking about her role as the National Ambassador of the National Year of Reading 2012. While music lovers can enjoy entertainment from the Woollahra String Quartet. Please RSVP to 9391 7100.

Paddington Ward Meeting on 1 March

Local Paddington residents are invited to attend a ward meeting on Thursday 1 March 2012 at St Georges Anglican Church. There are two meetings to choose from: 2pm–3pm and 6.30pm–8.30pm.

The meeting is an opportunity for residents to discuss local issues that matter to you and will be held at St Georges Anglican Church Community Hall, 245 Glenmore Rd (Fiveways), Paddington. Visit: www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au for more information.