Great Ocean Road Holiday House Accommodation

Apollo Bay College Parents and Friends Group The November 10 AGM is fast approaching and now is the time to consider being a part of the P and F committee.
Roles include President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Minutes Secretary, Class Reps and Classroom Helpers.
The President is the key member of the executive and is responsible for ensuring all committee members play an active role, chairing each meeting and ensuring all members fee! informed and included. The treasurer is responsible for all financial activities and is well supported by the finance team at school. The secretaries are responsible for administrative tasks such as taking minutes, mail and publishing notices.
Classroom Reps play a small but key role in communicating to families from each class and organising classroom helpers for teachers when needed.
Each position is welt supported and because of this, there is only a small time commitment. However this small contribution will make a HUGE difference. What you will get back in spades, is the fun of being part of a group of people who want to help make our school an even better place for our kids to be. The P and F are the fundraising and social arm of the school. Meetings are held monthly and all members of the Pand F are welcome to attend. If meetings aren't your thing or you just can't get there, make sure you put your name and details down at the school office. This way you can be kept informed ofwhat's coming up.
The AGM is at 7pm Monday 10th November. The meeting will be followed by a Community School Forum at which you will have an opportunity to put forward your ideas on the direction you would like to see our school taking. For more details or to nominate for a position, please contact Susie McBride on: 52 37 7807.

IN MEMORIUM
EliseTelford -7-11-2000
Love Robert & Barbara

Apollo Bay Fire Brigade
SUMMER FIRE SEASON 1st November 2008 to 1st May 2009 Fire Restrictions are now in force in our area. No burning off or fires in the open permitted.
CALL OUTS FOR OCTOBER 2008 03/10/08 1243 hrs Road Rescue,
Great Ocean Rd Maits Rest 25/10/08 2137hrs False Alarm Good intent.
Marriners Lookout Rd, AB 26/10/08 1742hrs Grass scrub fire
Blue Johanna Rd Johanna

OBITUARY
William "Bill" Frederick Perriman 3/4/1922 to 24/10/2008
Local identity Bill Perriman has died in his sleep at the South Valley Nursing Home in Geelong. He was aged 86 years.
Bill was born in Preston on 3/4/1922 and was the only son of James & Pearl Perriman. As a teenager he loved fishing and was a member, along with his father, of the Preston Angling Club. He was a very good Aussie rules footballer and payed with the Fitzroy seconds and Preston in the Victorian Football Association. His awkward style of play upset many opponents.
During the World War II he tried to enlist but was declared medically unfit due to a hearing problem. Around this time his parents moved from Preston to Apollo Bay and lived in Montrose Av. He decided to move down also. He played with the local football club and secured employment with the PMG. He started work as a linesman and continued until he retired. He met and married a local girl Eileen Wright and the had two children a son Darren and daughter Leanda. In retirement he was regularly seen on the golf course cutting the greens and manicuring the bunkers. He also took up bowling and was very active in the AB Bowling Club. His club victories included a pair's championship but the title of club champion eluded him although he was runner up on three occasions. He also represented Victoria at the Postal Institute Bowls Carnival in various states.
In 1999 Bill and Eileen lost their son Darren to cancer. Both found it very difficult to accept and to cope with the tragedy. No doubt this contributed to Eileen's death in 2002.
Bill also found it difficult to look after himself and i 1993 moved to nursing home accommodation in Geelong.
Bill is survived by his daughter Leanda, son in law Julian, daughter in law- Pamela and grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, Anita & Shuan. Also sisters in law, Pat Cunningham, June Mansfield and brother in law Stan Wright.
I deem it a privilege to write this obituary for my friend Bill. I have known him for over 70 years and our families were very close. Our mother attended the same school in Preston South over 100 years ago an ¦ also resided in the same street in Preston May he rest in peace. "Good Old Colimgwood for Ever" Norman Mills, Wangaratta.

RUTH SELLENS
I have nominated for a position in the Colac Otway Shire Council, in the knowledge that I have the commitment, experience, skills and leadership qualities to work individually and co-operatively with other council members, moving our community forward in a positive and productive way. As an experienced principal and senior regional officer, I have developed strong relationships with individuals and groups in many of the communities across our Shire, This experience has further strengthened my resolve to put myself forward for this position, knowing that I can capably perform the tasks required. I have assisted communities in developing a shared vision by listening to and valuing their views and ideas. My ability to review relevant data and analyse complex information has assisted in reaching a logical conclusion, with decisions based on all aspects of available information. I am committed to working with the Shire team, building on the initiatives and innovations already evident across the Shire. Written and authorised by Ruth Sellens. 2030 Colac-Ballarat Road Beeac. 3251

CAROL WILMINK
We live in a fantastic environment; probably the basic reason most of us moved here, so we need to keep it that way. I want to be part of a council that leads the community after listening to what they want. There is a proposal for a government funded 'Community Plan', developed by locals in each area of the shire, then worked through with Council over say ten years. Everyone in our community has the right to access recreational pursuits that improve their quality of life; e.g. libraries are the only recreational activity available to some people! We need to diversify business and employment opportunities throughout the shire to cushion possible economically hard times. The 'user pays' system needs to include some of the big items in our budget. These projects are attractive to their users, but very expensive for a shire of our size to continue to fund. Local Government has a very different role to other forms of government, and a restricted budget to carry out these functions. Roads and rubbish are an important part of that role. Our major role is to advocate on behalf of our community. Planning issues are a major concern for Apollo Bay. Written and authorised by Carol Wilmtnk

JAN HEALEY
Vote 1 Jan Healey. I currently manage the Education & Training Unit at Otway Community College in Colac. I was a Maths teacher at Colac High School and later at Trinity College. I have had involvement with primary and secondary school boards, kindergarten, landcare and scouts committees. I work with my husband Barry, doing the books for our farm and cartage business. I have visited Apollo Bay regularly starting with childhood holidays at Cape Patten. I am keep to contribute to building the Colac Otway Shire. I will be staying in Apollo Bay for the weekend of November 15 & 16 and hope to have a chance to catch up at the market and in the street.
Written and authorised by Jan Healey

LYN RUSSELL
Born, raised and educated in Apollo Bay, a daughter of a local pioneering family, I trained at Colac as a nurse and nursed there for 28years. I have lived in Elliminyt with husband Merv for 33 years and have a son Danny. I work in Cobden as their Community Health Nurse at present. I am patient, understanding with excellent listening skills and have a willingness to learn and a very strong sense of community. I am a strong, independent, caring woman, who opposes the overdevelopment of our naturally, beautiful coastline. I support the Colac Library remaining at it's present location. I want to be part of a transparent, accountable, honest and fair local government, who listens to the community. I want our assets maintained and improved. I want improved and honest shire communication and much improved customer relations.
Written and authorised by Lyn Russell.

COUNCIL ELECTION POLL
Ballot paper will be posted out to voters on the
electoral roll on the 11th, 12th and 13th of November.
If you have not received your ballot paper by
November 19th contact the Returning Officer (Ph 5231
1105) and seek assistance.
If you are going to away between the 11th and 281h Nov
and unable to collect the ballot papers contact the
Returning Officer.
The poll closes at 6pm on 28tn November. Ballot
papers must delivered prior to the close of the poll date
to be counted.

PETER MERCER
Who is he? A Gerangamete farmer operating the property he developed from the bush with his wife Anne and their children, combining this with share dairy-farming, farm managing, secondary and Tafe teaching, State College lecturing and Tafe Campus coordinator. Environmentally concerned he grows his own food and has signed contracts to utilise solar energy for power and hot water. Why become a Councillor? A natural progression from a community commitment have served on committees in arts, education, environment, gardens, health, history, farming, sport and active CFA membership for 40 years.
What are his priorities? Roads and drains, weed control, the environment, small town improvement, water supply protection and supporting our services, businesses and farmers.
What about Apollo Bav? Authorities believe Apollo Bay should treble in size, whilst totally disagreeing, if it happens it must be with minimum impact in a sustainable manner with infrastructure to match. An essential amenity is a golf course. Why should I vote 1 Mercer, Peter Boyd? A proven record of looking to the future with enthusiasm, energy and experience. An ability to work with your chosen council having no political or pressure group Sinks. A commitment to meet and work with groups and individuals when requested
Written and authorised by Peter Mercer

BRIAN CROOK
I have been a resident of this Shire for over thirty years.
I have been twice elected as a councillor with strong support. Twelve months ago I was sacked by the government for not voting on a proposed residential development on a floodplain at Apollo Bay. The State government made no attempt to discuss or mediate this matter. Its time to send them a message about respect for people in local government. I've listened to the community and contrary to my personal opinion, if its legal, I will support a costing of the redevelopment of our library on its current site. Other issues for consideration include; a review of the rating system, sustainable planning, protection of water resources, improvement of roads and recreational facilities and importantly for the youth of Apollo Bay support for a submission for Trade Training Centre funding. This funding (up to $10m) will improve accessibility and affordability of courses for Apollo Bay students. This will mean less reliance on travel ti Geeiong for further study and training and better position our students to service local needs and better equip our students to take their place in the national employment market. The Shire will play a vital role in this submission. Votei. Brian Crook
Written and authorised by Brain Crook
My apologies to Margaret Smith, a candidate in the Colac Otway Council election, for failing to include hei in the list of candidates published in the AB News las week. Her name was not on the VEC website 4.00pm on the 28th October when I obtained the list. I
Ted Stucke

TONY WEBBER
If ! am elected to the Colac Otway Council I wil represent the communities wishes on issues, eg Floodplain development, library and harbour plan. This could be done by putting such issues on the council general election ballot paper to give everyone say. The Otways at the present time has only one major industry, tourism that the council supports. I think the council should support the cottage and local fooc industry. We still have adequate rainfall when most of the southern Australia is drying out. I would advocate permacuSture principles to achieve local food production; also car-pooling and mini bus transport between local towns so there are fewer cars on the roads saving on road maintenance. Rate rises should be kept to minimum and the present rate differential should be retained. Large businesses, eg supermarkets do not contribute enough in rates (a 42% reduction in 2008). I would advocate an increase in the cents in a dollar for such businesses. Some of these large businesses have a turn over of $8,000,000, more of this should be returned to the community.
The council should not have closed briefing meetings; all issues should be debated fully at council meetings. In Apollo Bay we have a climate change group the Otway Ranges Climate Action (OCRA). The council should support this groups aim (local energy, local food production, transport and sustainable housing) These are some of the policies that I wil! advocate if
elected to council.
Written and authorised by Tony Webber.

JOYCE BIDDLE
I'm a permanent resident of Apollo Bay of 44 years and a ratepayer for 3 properties in Apollo Bay. Family members hold local property interest, including Farming and Family Guesthouse. My late father was a Councillor.
Family history and personal interest in our community and surrounds highlights awareness of current situations decisions, including the massive increases imposed on ratepayers pockets over recent years and the impact within the shire is incredibly disappointing, ie the Colac library; the ratepayers voted NO - the council voted YES. Questionable representation. Better fairer representation is a must and each individual communities need must be acknowledged. Focus on community groups ie. Youth, families, elderly, workers, farming, sporting & recreational organisations, etc is of importance. Awareness of smooth corporate inter relations is vital. Achievement of meaningful improvements and individual community beatification and enhancements in keeping with each local area expending minimal funds is a must. Community issues of interest are many including pony club, harbour, golf club, hospital, pool, public land facilities or the lack of.
If elected to council I will, strive for practical financial management, debt elimination, sensible strategic planning, commonsense infrastructure (follow specifications - no short cuts) efficient resource use, major road improvements, accountability and transparency, improved resolution of ratepayer issues is my mission. I am approachable.
Written and authorised by Joyce Biddle

GRANT BEALE
G'Day. My name is Grant and I am 45 years old. I
have lived in the Colac Otway shire for my entire life
and enjoyed being a long time active member of local
football clubs.
I am concerned about some of council's previous
decisions and how these have affected the community.
I would like to see improvements to the roads,
community sporting facilities and the rural community
in general.
In particular, push for the funding for the extension of
the freeway to Colac.
I see control over the water catchments as a major
concern for our region.
Our council should have more control over our water,
to ensure that it stays in our area for our community.
I would not push for over development of our coastal
beauty.
Council should be managing existing developments
conservatively.
More police visibility in the area, also that the
community should take more responsibility for its own
safety with the council supply support and information
where necessary.
At this point in time I feel that council could make itself
more open and available to the wider community and
its diverse opinions.
I think the bus service could be improved and the
community to be encouraged to use it, whether they
commute to work or do their shopping.
Authorised by Grant Beale 65 Monaghans Road Beeac. 3251

STEPHEN HART
In 1984 I graduated with a Bachelor of Economics from Monash University, having studied accounting, economics and law. I reviewed complex financial arrangements in the Commonwealth Public service. As a Councillor from 2002 to 2004, I worked td improve finances, planning, openness and accountability. Since 2004 Council has been clouded in controversy with reduced accountability, high staff turnover and disputes between Councillors. Poor decision-making has resulted in record rate increases. These uncertain times require careful financia management and debt reduction. I want to create a Council that earns the trust and respect of the community it serves. My priorities are: saving Colac library; creating an open, cohesive Council; supporting community priorities for harbour improvements; strengthening Council's finances and improving the Council Code of Conduct so that the Mayor's extra casting vote cannot be misused. I have strong reservations about council's proposal for a motel at the Apolio Bay harbour. Council must respond to climate change with practical measures, including reducing fuel use, promoting renewable energy and creating community gardens. Effective Councillors can improve Council's performance and reputation. I will carefully evaluate Council's performance and reports. My academic background, prior employment and previous Councillor experience make me well suited.
Written and authorised by Stephan Hart.

Apollo Bay, what's happening in paradise!