From Geoff Eaton – Onkaparinga Councillor

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their confidence in both Marion Themeliotis and myself by voting for both of us as the two councillors for Thalassa Ward in the recent local government elections. We obtained some of the highest number first preference votes for councillor candidates during the election across the City of Onkaparinga. I received 1873, whilst Marion received 1702 first preference votes.

The election has resulted in a new Mayor Erin Thompson and 7 new councillors, with a further 4 being re-elected and one other returning to Council after a few years break.

Since the elections I have been busy undertaking induction training, attending our swearing-in ceremony and many community and staff events. The first meeting of the new Council was held on Tuesday 11 December where we voted in favour of not electing a deputy mayor. At that meeting I got the strong sense that the newly elected group will work well together. I was appointed to the Audit and Risk Committee, and Australia Day Awards Committee.

opportunity for residents to meet with me and discuss local issues

I am currently focusing on the needs of the Cherry Gardens and Coromandel Valley areas of this ward and so that I can provide an opportunity for residents to meet with me and discuss local issues. I have set a time with the Aberfoyle Hub Library between 10.00 am and noon on the fourth Thursday of each month, commencing in January 2019. I am still arranging an appropriate time to hold a similar opportunity at the Coromandel Community Centre, and am intending to attend at the Watchman’s House, Coromandel Valley on Saturday mornings, when possible. I am also attending the two men’s breakfasts held at the Hub and Coromandel Community Centres.

City of Onkaparinga Grants Program 2019-20

Applications are being sought for the City of Onkaparinga Grants Program 2019-20, opening Monday 28 January and closing Tuesday 12 March. Grants are available for:

  • Community Grants

  • Community Training and Development

  • Environment Grants

  • Event Sponsorship

  • Every Generation Onkaparinga Grants

  • Heritage Grants

  • Minor capital Works and Facilities Grants

  • Public Place Improvement Grants.

These grants provide funding opportunities and I urge residents to consider worthwhile initiatives within your area and make an application. I am looking forward to the opportunity. More detail is included to this newsletter.

I wish everyone an enjoyable Christmas and a happy new year.

Should anyone wish to contact me then they can do so through my council email address of geoff.eaton@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au or on my mobile 0416 637 351.