Rising Star of The North

Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009 www.plainsproducer.com.au A

A special promotion ofWakefield Regional Council

Rising starof the North

Balaklava

i With Balaklava Area Committee

iVision

All the components for growth

H FRONT page image courtesy of NASA’s Hubble Telecsope. It shows an infant star cluster, NGC 602, a small Megellanic Cloud in the constellation Tucana, 200,000 light years from Earth. Go to www.hubblesite.org.gallery

B www.plainsproducer.com.au The Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009

Supported by Balaklava Area CommitteeStar of the NorthSPECIAL FEATUREBALAKLAVA

BALAKLAVA should be proud of its recent achievements and look forward to what the future holds.

Some might argue the town remains a plod-der, with not much going for it – “nothing has changed,” the pessimists will lament.

But there has been great change in just over four years in the town described by a leading South Australian builder as the “rising star of the north.” This was Homestead Homes chief, Bob Day, in a front page article in The Plains Producer in early February, 2006. A little over three years ago.

He was commenting about his company’s decision to open up an estate of some 100 al-lotments in Balaklava’s east.

Mr Day said in this newspaper’s report:Balaklava had “its own special quality.”

“Balaklava has experienced natural growth,” Mr Day said. “It has not been reliant on other aspects like tourism – the vines or the sea – to show it is growing.

“The town and district have all the com-ponents for growth – strong employment prospects, a good industry base, schools, facilities like the hospital and its own history and culture.

“This is the formula for growth and prosper-ity. “All the planets line up.”

Included in the “A-plus” report was Balak-lava’s strong community mix at each end of residential life.There was a growing younger population and an equally solid blend of older people living in the area.

Mr Day said there were top quality schools for children growing up and facilities like the hospital and its helipad to appeal to more mature residents.

“There’s a good atmosphere about the place. Balaklava has its own special quality – hence our decision to invest in the town,” he said.

BAlAklAvA has come a long way in the past four years. To be precise, it’s 52 months since Plains Producer editor Terry Williams returned to Balaklava to live after running a business in the town in the mid 1980s. He arrived in March, 2005, to a town which was just starting to stir.

This is his view of a town set to become the “Rising Star of the North”. Follow that star over the next 10 pages ...

The description has proved to be apt.So much so, this newspaper now proudly

uses it as its slogan, with a colourful rainbow logo on our front page and repeated within this feature.

And today we chronicle all the positives about Balaklava, with just a hint of associated areas and businesses, to prove to any “doubting Thomases” Balaklava is, indeed, a Star of the North and hub to the Adelaide Plains and lower north. We reject negativity.

We do this unashamedly, because we believe in Balaklava. As we have always as the local newspaper for more than 100 years.

There is good reason. As you will see.Bob Day’s Wattle Ridge estate has grown to

capacity in the last two years. Now filling with new homes, it is on track for 40 more as part of a low income home rental scheme.

Not far from Wattle Ridge is Hayfield Plains, the 33 unit retirement village first developed by Life Care in 2006.

Only a few homes remain to be sold three years later. Many of the town and district’s pes-simists said that would never happen.

But it has, thanks to the foresight and in-testinal fortitude of a variety of people at all levels, from Wakefield Regional Council to individuals – but particularly the Churches of Christ Life Care group.

And Balaklava’s development will continue as times goes by.

Wattle Ridge June 09

‘

’ – Bob Day, Homestead Homes,

February 2006

The town and district have all the components for growth – strong employment prospects, a good industry base, schools, facilities like the hospital and its own history and culture.This is the formula for growth and prosperity. All the planets line up.

Hayfield Plains June 09

What star is that?

Building a better future for our community

Scotland Place, BalaklavaPhone: 8862 0800

www.wakefieldrc.sa.gov.au

Enhancing community well-being through strong and progressive leadership with quality services, economic opportunities and continued growth

The Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009 www.plainsproducer.com.au C


iLeadership

Working for Balaklava community

Wakefield Regional

Council CEO, Phil Barry and Environmental

Services manager, Elca

McCarthy, make a recent

inspection of the Ralli Park

grandstand.

Balaklava Area Committee Balaklava Area Committee (BAC) is making a stand as the action team of the community, taking charge of com-

munity projects.The committee was formed in 200X as

the voice for the community.The committee is responsible for assisting

the community to advocate for funding, and to speak to a wide range of organisations, including Wakefield Regional Council, to convey what the community really wants to happen.

BAC continually monitors the Balaklava Action Plan, which is updated annually.

Recently, it has focussed on the future of the historic grandstand at Ralli Park, used by many locals and community groups but now unable to be accessed as it has fallen into disrepair.

After liaising with several community groups involved, it has been decided to repair the grandstand at considerable cost.

Recently-appointed BAC chairman, Terry Williams, said the committee needed to drive projects throughout Balaklava.

“By all accounts, residents seem to have trouble coming to grips with what the com-mittee actually does,” Terry said.

“That is explained here in detail. BAC will drive key projects – but at the same time residents need to realise they must be pre-pared to get their hands dirty to make things happen.

“The community expects to live in an attractive town with good facilities and that doesn’t happen without taking action matched with good leadership,” Terry said.

“BAC is here to help facilitate projects, liaise with Wakefield Regional Council, help organise funding and assist and advise vari-ous town groups – but we cannot just click our fingers and make things happen.

“That’s up to the people who live here. To be blunt – YOU.”

The Area Committee is responsible for

increasing community involvement and improving communication between the com-munity and other organisations, including council.

In addition, the committee aims to im-prove and maintain local infrastructure and environment; support continued economic growth and strategic planning; and support social well-being.

The committee liaises with other bodies

within the town, including schools, sports clubs, and community groups.

Other projects being progressed include the creation of a town website; ongoing sup-ply and distribution of ‘welcome packs’ for new residents (in conjunction with Balak-lava High School students); progressing the Balaklava Masterplan (in conjunction with WRC); lobbying for improved health care services; making the town centre gopher friendly; and town beautification in partner-ship with the Balaklava Garden Club, Lions Club, and council.

Committee member David Newsome said it was hoped the website would be launched later this year to promote the town to visitors.

The committee has also been liaising with railway owners Genesee and Wyoming with the aim of improving pedestrian pathways across the railway line and planting screening trees in the railyard area west of War Memo-rial Drive.

These projects are still in the discussion phase but according to Terry Williams are “progessing well – things WILL happen.”

And Balaklava’s town streets could soon be decorated with promotional banners, if grant funding is successful (see report, next page).

The Area Committee also acts as a contact point for council and community organisa-tions: it forwards information to other parties and informs clubs of opportunities that may

Margaret Manuel

Terry Williams Jeanette Aldenhoven

Peter Rohrlach Shirley Welke David NewsomeDale Gathercole

Barb Rodgers Kevin Bubner Lisa Redpath Jeff Hennig Peter McPharlin Ruth Arikawe

Jenny Rowland Joy Maxwell Cr Maurice Tiller Cr Kelly Bickle Cr Avon HudsonClare Haynes Fran Henderson

Graham Ackland.

be available. In addition, the committee is encouraging all local clubs and associations to form their own strategic plans outlining priorities and directions, helping establish the priorities for the township as a whole.

o Committee members are: chair Terry Williams; secretary and media, Margaret Manuel; treasurer David Newsome; town beautification Shirley Welke; emergency services Jeanette Aldenhoven; aged care Graham Ackland; skate park Peter Rohrlach; health and religion, Peter McPharlin; educa-tion Dale Gathercole; health and education Barb Rodgers; service clubs Kevin Bubner; neighbourhood shed, museum, Jeff Hennig; neighbourhood shed Ruth Arikawe; arts Jenny Rowland; garden club and town beautification Joy Maxwell; sporting clubs Fran Henderson. Ian Langdon; youth Lisa Redpath; youth Clare Haynes; and councillors Avon Hudson, Kelly Bickle and Maurice Tiller.

Project:Refurbish

grandstand

Balaklava Area Committeeinc

Your voice in the community fostering a vibrant, strong and health community

• Obtaining funding through grants • Lobbying Wakefield Regional Council with concerns or issues• Advice or guidance on future plans or objectives

Talk to a committee member today

Does your club, organisation or community group need help with…

BalaklavaArea Committee

iGrowth

It started with a festival

D www.plainsproducer.com.au PlainsProducer,WednesdayJune24,2009


Follow Balaklava – ‘Star of

the North’ with Terry

Williams

Winners:SA Great regional

award winners:

BalcoBalaklava

CupAdelaide

Plains Marketing

2005

Back in March 2005, when I arrived in Balaklava, the town appeared to be on the brink of something. But what?

Balco, the locally-grown hay giant, was beginning to grow further at Bowmans, and Primo another big local employer, was tick-ing over nicely just to the north.

So much so we carried a report in our July 24, 2005 issue, which declared Primo Smallgoods near Port Wakefield was look-ing for another 150 staff. as one returning to live in Balaklava after a significant break, this was good news, as the burgeoning opti-misim was clearly evident.

certainly, the old town still could do with a dust off in some parts, but there was the “vibe.” It started in February and continued into March with the announcement of the adelaide Plains cup festival – and adelaide Plains Marketing, which was to trumpet the positives of the plains.

The cup festival weekends continue – a sign of everlasting success – with a Sunday race day at Balaklava Racing club, THE place to be each September for its iconic cup meeting. But back in March 2005, we were also getting excited about more poul-try farms .... and in Balaklava a revitalisa-tion of the parklands adjacent to the bowling club, caravan park and swimming pool.

That development, announced in June 05, now is complete, with community involvement through Wakefield Regional council, residents and students from nearby schools, who created artwork, planted trees and helped build sporting areas.

and now, today – four years later – we can also see the wonderful community Shed finally being created after years of hard slog by a committed group who just would not give up on its creation.

It was only a dream in 2005. Now that such a facility is (almost) here, does it really matter how long it took? Read our separate report on the community Shed.

In September 2005 Balco announced its

expansion into Victoria and Western aus-tralia. With Gilmac, south of Balaklava, the two have become australia’s major export-ers of quality hay to asian countries.

There since has been a necessary downsizing in Victoria, but the company

remained on track for more growth, soon to come at Bowmans. also in September four new community Housing units opened in Virgo Terrace and in December, Balco, the Balakalava cup and adelaide Plains Mar-keting would win Sa Great regional awards.

2005SAGreatwinnersrepresentedbySimonMillcock,AdelaidePlainsMarketing,RebekaNyland,BalaklavaRacingClubandGeoffSpenceandLornaJohn,BalcoAustralia.

Former community development officer JanineHintonadmiresthegrowingBalaklavaParklands.

Revitalised:Balaklava parklands

Excitement:Adelaide Plains

Cup festival

Thinking Global • Working Local

Established in 1990, Balco Australia has

grown to become one of the largest hay

exporting companies in the country.

Now one of the biggest employers in

the district, Balco continues to support

the local community in the area of arts,

sport and the local economy

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The Adelaide Plains was burst-ing with pride last weekend, when more than 4,000 people rallied behind the region’s inaugural Ad-elaide Plains Cup Festival.

Showcasing the district’s best kept secrets, the festival weekend included a taste of local produce, a sample of art, craft, seafood, poetry, golf and shooting. The three-day

event climaxed on Sunday with 3,000 punters enjoying a day at the races.

Yorke Regional Development Board economic development of-ficer, Simon Millcock, said hosting a regional event was an almighty challenge, but the Cup Festival was well received.

“The whole three days just

showed this region can do things as good as any other,” he said. “The festival was aimed at getting com-munities to work collectively.

“And for them to realise that each community has the opportu-nity to benefit from what is hap-pening in their neighbouring town or district.”

He said the regional event, was

■ More photos and com-plete wrap-up, pages 12 &13.

an important marketing tool for the district and YRDB was already putting together a funding applica-tion for a second festival in 2006.

The festival also marked the launch of the long-awaited Ad-elaide Plains marketing plan, as

Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009 www.plainsproducer.com.au E


Economy rides with ‘Intermodal’Industrial link:

Bowmans Intermodal

Industry

A MASTER plan outlining future direc-tions for the continued development of industrial land at Bowmans is now

with Wakefield Regional Council.The Bowmans Industrial Zone Masterplan

identifies opportunities for growth and de-velopment at ‘Adelaide’s northern railhead’, taking into account altered potential if water supply is increased, gas lines established or an additional railway siding in place.

The plan, compiled by consultants QED in consultation with current industry, Wake-field Regional Council and its Economic De-velopment committee, covers an area of 315 hectares within the Bowmans industrial zone. The plan was established after Bowmans was identified in several key plans as being a key part of development and growth across the wider region.

With the intermodal site providing cost effective movement of goods, it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions by using about one-third of the fuel of road transport.

“The creation of industry clusters around intermodal sites provides further economic and cost benefits due to potential economies of scale and supporting service provision,” the plan said.

Located on the Adelaide to Darwin railway line, Bowmans industrial zone is in a prime position to take advantage of rail access and road transport transfer service and facilities.

The master plan provides opportunities to increase business and service provision; de-velop a multi-function industry precinct; and identify effective and efficient transport op-portunities to meet the needs of the proposed activities and to improve economic perform-ance for the area; and maximise social and economic benefits.

Three scenarios have been prepared - one based on the current infrastructure; one with access to an additional water supply; and one with increased rail head and siding opportu-nities. Opportunities for development were increased with the additional infrastructure in place. As part of the document, Adelaide consultants QED said the lack of water sup-ply would restrict growth of certain types of industries.

It was also suggested any residential development in and near Bowmans should be actively discouraged because of potential industrial/residential land use conflicts.

Currently, the industrial zone has three primary uses – the first being ABB bulk grain handling site; the second Balco with its hay processing plant, grain storage facility

and container operation in conjunction with Patrick Portlink; and the third being primary production.

ABB expects only modest expansion over the next five years, with any future additional grain storage facilities likely to be bunkers.

Balco, which has access to a 1.5km rail spur off the adjacent Adelaide to Darwin line, has medium to long term expansion plans and also has a keen interest in expanding an industrial subdivision to land within the relevant zone but outside the township.

One issue identified was the turnoff at Port Wakefield to Bowmans.

“The current T-junction arrangement at the turnoff to Bowmans and Balaklava is poorly placed at a horizontal curve of High-way One as it enters town,” consultants said.

“This junction is potentially dangerous and inadequate for the anticipated movement of large road freight.”

The plan said Bowmans was well placed to service mining and agricultural sectors in the Mid North, Yorke Peninsula and Adelaide Plains region, so much of the road movement to Bowmans would be through Port Wake-field.

It is believed the future Port Wakefield bypass road will benefit the increased movement and size of road transport, and a realigned Balaklava road junction at Port Wakefield will also be of huge benefit.

It was also found that any significant in-crease in demand for mains water would lead to supply issues. SA Water has investigated new water main infrastructure from a new source point in Upper Wakefield, and if this goes ahead, it is likely to escalate growth potential at Bowmans.

Another challenge identified was the lack of employees, especially for seasonal work, and limited accommodation.

The lack of public profile for the industrial site was also a concern, with a marketing strategy needed to increase awareness and attract industry.

Potential target markets were identified as: grain exports; bulk inward agricultural commodities such as fertiliser; agricultural processing such as canola oil; down stream manufacturing (eg. feed pellets); mining; bio-fuels; and rail related services and activities.

Stormwater harvesting was identified as a key component of expansion given the limitations of mains water supply.

If significant expansion occurred, consult-ants recommended a detention or retention type wetland for run-off, with water to be cleaned and reused.

Costs of the three scenarios (each depend-ing on future infrastructure provisions) ranged from $1.9 million to more than $5 million, with several potential state and fed-eral funding partners identified.

EACh year, about 5300 hay trucks deliver hay to Balco at Bowmans, along

with 5000 grain trucks and 3300 container trucks.

However, it is estimated this would be significantly higher if the poor intersection at Port Wakefield didn’t act as a deter-rent for grain traffic from north and west of Bowmans, which often continues on to Port Ad-elaide. Balco provided informa-tion to consultants indicating many products from mining centres of SA could also be value added at Bowmans, and growth potential would exceed an in-crease of 1000 trucks each year.

For each truck that goes to Bowmans rather than Adelaide, road movements are reduced by 220 kilometres.

ABB Grain’s Bowmans site is used by about 10,500 trucks each year, with potentially 2000 trucks lost some years because of the inadequate Port Wakefield intersection.

i

By Lauren Parker

Darren McDonald with a Patrick Portlink engine. The Bowmans industrial zone (above) is in a prime position to take advantage of rail access and road transport transfer services

Mining could bring growth

BalaklavaMill Court Homes

Phone: 8862 1576

Balaklava Mill Court Homes is a not - for - profit organisation, subsided by Commonwealth Government

• High quality residential aged care• Ageing in place• 15 independent living unitsThere is currently one

independent living unit available

F www.plainsproducer.com.au Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009

Balaklava South Australia from the air taken Sunday June 21, 2.30pm by Plains Producer staff photographer, Lisa Redpath.

Homestead Homes Pty Ltd 928 North East Road Modbury SA 5092

Enquiries: Colin Steinert Telephone 08 8261 8766 Mobile 0407 619 381

Peter & Tania Butterfield22 George Street Balaklava SA 5461

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Jack Redden Real Estate190 Main North Road Clare SA 5453

Telephone 08 8842 1154Email [email protected]

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With the start of 2006 came the announce-ment of homestead’s Wattle Ridge housing estate and Balco, in the news again, would see its managing director Malcolm May appointed as leader of SA’s new Export Council.

then on April 30, 2006, after making a com-mitment back in 2004, Life Care opened its $5 million Hayfield Plains retirement estate.

Work had progessed throughout 2005 and the opening was welcomed by those upbeat residents

who could see what it meant for Balaklava’s growth.

Lois and Ken Harkness were the first resi-dents – and visionary Balaklava Church of Christ pastor, Grant Spangenberg, the man who dared to dream, planted a commemorative rose.

Also in April we welcomed Primo’s Chinese workers to our community and in May display homes were opening in Wattle Ridge.

Later that month a $4 million expansion at

Balco’s Bowmans site was announced as part of the then Federal government’s Auslink program, which tipped in $2 million.

It was a big boost to confidence for the region.

In November, Wakefield Regional Council held its elections, with a new face arriving – that of Central ward councillor, Kelly Bickle, bring-ing with her a refreshing, youthful enthusiasm to the chamber.

Door opens to a new beginning2006

JUNE 2009:BALAKLAvA’S streets may

soon be decorated with banners promoting upcoming events and the town itself. Balaklava Area Committee is applying for grant funding to install brackets and banners on stobie poles around the town in the first stage of a beautification project.

if the funding application is successful, vertical banners could be used to promote events such

as the Balaklava Cup, Adelaide Plains Cup Festival, Balco Art Prize, and Balaklava Eisteddfod to name just a few.

And in the periods where there were no upcoming events to be advertised, the brack-ets would likely hold banners promoting the town itself, as ‘Balaklava, a great place to B’.

it hasn’t yet been determined where the initial banners will be hung, but may include the town

entrances to reach passing traffic.the town centre itself would

likely be decorated in the second stage of the project, as separate poles would need to be installed for the banners.

if the funding application to ABB’s community grants fund is successful, the first stage of the project could be progressed and banners hung from EtSA stobie poles, but in the town centre itself this isn’t possible because

of other fixtures on the poles.if all goes well, it is hoped

banners will be in place by De-cember, allowing for Christmas decorations to add to the festive theme. the proposal has already met with support from the Balak-lava Eisteddfod Committee, who each year hang a flag at the town hall to promote the event.

the committee has indicated it would use banners through the town to help with its promotion.

Flying the flag to promote Balaklava

iPromotion

In Lewiston Ward, Tom Summerton, Rudi Fabrici, Anne Picard and Duncan Kennington were elected. Melissa Lloyd was unsuccess-ful.A total of 2,015 formal votes were re-ceived in Mallala elections, and 4,114 votes in Wakefield Regional Council, including mayoral votes.District Council of Mallala councillors will later vote to elect a chairman.Former chairman Margaret Gameau retired at this election.In the Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council election, Patricia Jacka lost the battle for the mayor’s position to Allan Aughey by 661 votes.Light Regional Council residents elected Robert Hornsey as mayor, who defeated candidates Len Reddie and Rob Kerin.n ALL THE VOTING DETAILS AND COMMENT – PAGES 2 & 3

‘Each way’ vote as new faces join the old guard

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BALAKLAVA’s Central Ward re-elected councillors Avon Hudson (left) and Maurice Tiller at the Civic Centre with incoming councillor, Kelly Bickle.

Wakefield Regional Council mayor James Maitland was re-elected with 72 per cent of the vote when local government election votes were counted last Saturday.Mayor Maitland received 1789 votes com-pared to Lyn Beaumont-Clark’s tally of 689.Four councillors have been elected to the role for the first time, taking on a four year term.Balaklava identity Kelly Bickle brings a youthful perspective to council, winning a seat in Central ward, where Avon Hudson and Maurice Tiller were re-elected.Previous councillor Roger McQuire and candidate Jeff Hennig were unsuccessful.In Southern Ward, Don Dale was re-elected and Rodney Reid will sit on council for the first time. Candidate Jo Lilith was not elected.David Lamond and new councillor John

Wood were elected unopposed to the Eastern Ward.In Northern Ward, Darryl Ottens returns while Ted Beare fills a position on council for the first time.Both were elected unopposed. Scott Kelly and Barry Nottle were returned to Western Ward unopposed.In District Council of Mallala, 11 council-lors were elected from 18 candidates.In Dublin Ward, Steve Jones and Terry-

Anne Keen were elected. Norman Trestrail was unsuccessful.Marcus Strudwicke and Yvonne Howard were elected in Mallala Ward.Unsuccessful candidates Dave Parsons and Carolyn Cordon.Joe Daniele, Tony Flaherty and Steve Kennedy were elected to Two Wells Ward, with voters choosing the three successful council-lors over candidates Shane Heley, Michael Picard and Dean Godfrey.

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KELLYBicklejoinsWakefield Regional Council asanelectedmemberinNovember2006.

LiFE CARE’S Hayfield Plains retire-ment village in Balaklava was built in response to the changing needs of the

ageing population in the region.In close collaboration with the Wakefield

Regional Council, Life Care planned the development off Diekman terrace to provide affordable, quality retirement living options.

thirty-three architecturally designed two and three bedroom homes with landscaped gardens, wide streetscapes and a central com-munity centre were created.

It was the first major investment outside Adelaide for Life Care, which has been at the forefront of aged care services in South Australia since 1950 through the provision of residential care, retirement housing, com-munity and therapy services, and specialist respite care.

Only a few of the homes at Hayfield Plains remain on the market, and it has become an active, flourishing and pictur-esque residential asset for Balaklava and the surrounding district.

the community centre is in regular use by Hayfield Plains residents and many others in Balaklava. it is an ideal venue for a wide range of activities including health advice, craftwork, artistic expression, singing and family celebrations.

Recently, the community centre hosted a special seminar with guest speakers covering topics including:

• humour, happiness and health;

Life Care’s commitmento AdveRtising FeAtuRe

• active ageing; and • the Doctors Safety LineLyn Polley, Life Care’s business develop-

ment executive, said the quality of homes, streetscaping and social interaction at hay-field Plains had provided a successful model for the organisation to look to developing similar retirement village concepts in other regional areas of South Australia.

“From the outset, Life Care worked closely with the Wakefield Regional Council and the community to develop a retirement village that would appeal to residents and attract people to Balaklava,” she said.

“Our commitment has always been on building lasting links with the mid-north community and being part of the social fabric of the region.”

in 2007, Life Care was presented with an Emu Award in the community category for

developing Hayfield Plains. The Emu Awards recognise people and organisations making a positive difference to the region by venturing beyond comfort zones.

in the past two years, Life Care has also been a major sponsor of the Emu Awards to encourage others to strive for excellence in projects that will benefit the community.

Life Care also sponsors local sporting groups, including the Balaklava Golf Club

and the Balaklava Bowling Club, to pro-mote healthy and active ageing.

• Diann Aartsen, sales consultant for Hayfield Plains is on site Wednesdays and Fridays for open inspec-tions. Contact Diann on 0400 250 004.

HOMes andgardens at Hayfield Plainsarenowwellestablished.

Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009 www.plainsproducer.com.au I


Balaklava’s 20/20 visionBy 2007 Balaklava was in the early

stages of creating its “Master Plan” for the town, with an announcement

in late January, followed by a public forum to “join the dots” for a 20/20 vision in February.

This has been one of the slower areas of achievement within Balaklava but it is hoped the Balaklava Area Committee will stimulate more action as we move towards 2010.

But disaster was to rock the community late in February, with a $15 million blaze at Primo’s Port Wakefield abattoirs.

This took the wind out of our sails in a dark start to the new year.

But we were buoyed by the return of the

Adelaide Plains Cup festival and its “castles of the Plains” slide show on the ABB silos.

The Plains Producer reported a “sales rush” in local housing but in April we were to take another hit, when Balaklava Racing Club was to become embroiled in a sug-gested merger with Gawler, after a stinging report into SA racing by the sport’s control-ling body, Throughbred Racing SA.

The club weathered that storm and today continues to run its successful meetings.

Likewise Primo, knocked for six by the fire, in August 2007 announced its commit-ment to a $28 million rebuild of the abattoir, making it a state-of-the-art meat processing

facility. Now, two years on, it is back to full capacity. A testament to the dedication and supprot of Primo’s owners and workers.

Then in September, the first hint of what has come to fruition only a week ago – the announcement of planning for up to 80 new homes for “low income” earners.

Will it happen.? With the commitment and support of builders and the property managers, Lutheran Community Housing, it appears it will. We made the announcement confirming the project only a week ago.

Details can be gained by emailing Lu-theran Community Housing at [email protected] or phone 8332 4899.

iThen and now

2007

■ By LAUREN PARKER

■ By KAy cALdER

Balaklava’s oval dilemma as APFL footy final clashes with show

Our first steps in planningnew look Balaklava

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A scheduling mix up has resulted in two of this region’s most popular events being double booked at Balaklava on September 22.

The problem has come to light after it was revealed Adelaide Plains Football League (APFL) had programmed its 2007 grand final at Balaklava oval on the same day as Balaklava Show.

Community bodies that stand to be affected are outraged by the possible repercussions.

Balaklava Show president, Philip Shepherd, said the show had traditionally always been held on the fourth Saturday in September.

“It’s been that way since the year dot,” Mr Shepherd said.

“Balaklava Show date is locked in to coin-

DoubleDouble booked!cide with northern shows circuit and to change it would be disastrous.”

Mr Shepherd was unaware of the calamity until last week when he received a casual phone call querying this year’s show date.

He is yet to be contacted by Adelaide Plains Football League officials.

“It would be impossible for us to change the show date and we will be digging in our heels.

“I just hope locals will support us and realise the impact it would have on the town,” said Mr Shepherd.

Meanwhile, APFL president, Brad Busch,

vowed the clash would be resolved at a meet-ing on Monday February 12.

He believes the only two options open to APFL were to either bring the season forward a week or shift the venue.

“Personally, I lean towards moving the venue to avoid clashing with AFL and SANFL grand finals.

Mr Busch said North Eastern League clubs would also hold their grand final on September 22, but were unconcerned the event coincided with Balaklava Show.

Balaklava Football Club president, Mark Wright, is angered over the double booking and says the club was relying on the grand final as a major revenue raiser.

Balaklava Football Club last hosted a grand final in 2004. Mr Wright said the club had invested $20,000 in a new lawnmower to maintain the oval in top condition solely on the basis of hosting the event.

“We’ve gone out on a limb as other users such as the show society and cricket club are not financial and cannot contribute,” Mr Wright said.

While acknowledging, footballers were the biggest users of the oval, he said the bulk of burden to maintain the facility ultimately fell to Balaklava football, netball and tennis clubs, and revenue raised from a final would go a long way to keeping the facility upgraded.

■ Continued Page 2

Joining the dotsBalaklava is one

step closer to a sustainable plan for the future after com-munity members gathered on Sunday to help develop a vision for the town.

The public meeting was the first stage of the devel-opment of a plan for the town, Balaklava 20/20 Ur-ban Design Framework and Masterplan.

QED principal urban designer Andrew Russell said he was very impressed with the response of the community.

“There seems to be a com-mon view with a lot of key issues and opportunities,” he said. “There is a level of concurrence across the community which needs to be looked at.”

Those attending the meet-ing were asked to highlight the values, issues, and op-portunities they felt were a priority of the community.

Issues rated at higher im-portance were the unsightly

and under-utilised railway corridor dividing the town; lack of community facili-ties including crisis care and community housing; serv-ices not open on weekends; toilet facilities; and greening the township.

Values of importance were the town triangle, including the shops and character; regional centre for health; cultural environ-ment including the art prize and Balaklava Eisteddfod;

and the Wakefield River and Rocks Reserve.

The community saw op-portunities in creating a vision for Balaklava; gateway treat-ments into town; development of the railway line; encourag-

ing industry and growth; and disabled car parking.

Andrew Russell, who led the workshop, said these would be considered when the plan was developed.

■ Continued Page 3

planningconsultants (from left) Valli Morphett, Chris Calcraft and andrew Russell with the “dot point” issues.BElOW: Focus group with (from left) liz Wilds, Jeff Hennig, norma Schopp and Shirley Welke.

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n IN DeCeMBeR, 2007 discussions had started with a view to creating a “super school” at Balaklava, integrating child care, kindergarten, primary and high schools onto a common campus.

The proposal would offer a one-stop child care and educational facility for children from birth to year 12, providing a smoother transition for children as they progress through their education.

Discussions on the concept continue in 2009. Decided soon, it aims to offer children more curriculum opportunities and equip them with more practical training to address skilled work shortages.

Growth in education

J www.plainsproducer.com.au PlainsProducer,WednesdayJune24,2009


BALAKLAVA

CLARE

ADELAIDE

GAWLER

Port Wakefi eld

Brinkworth

Mallala

Two Wells

Owen

KapundaHamley Bridge

BlythSnowtown

Burra

SaddleworthHalbury

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Lochiel

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Send your news, letters, views, sport, adverts – and we will share them with more than 7,000 readers each week The Plains Producer, 9 Howe Street Balaklava Phone: 8862 1977 Fax: 8862 1997

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Becoming the ‘hub’ of region2008

iDevelopment

Neighbourhood shed:Community projectBALAKLAVAgolf

club–theproposalisundergoing

governmentandcouncilappraisal.

And so to last year – 2008 – in this re-cap of major events. We have covered just the top echelon of events – and

concentrated mainly on Balaklava – but it is obvious where we are headed.

February 2008 saw Mill Court aged care facility announce a proposed expansion into the area of land now used as a car park to the west. In March the first hint of a push for an airport in the region came from the Wakefield Group of councils. The proposal is gathering pace today.

In May it was Balaklava Golf Club’s turn to steal the front page, with an announcement of a housing project for the course.

Developer Andrew Chapman would en-lighten us further later that year, in Decem-ber, with plans for 190 housing allotments

BAlAklAvA’s neighbourhood shed is a true community project. The shed will be a self-supporting enterprise

and promoted as somewhere members of the community can gather to work on community projects, or foster friendships.

After being talked about for many years, a dedicated committee has negotiated with lo-cal Council and other stakeholders to see the project to fruition.

As the overseeing body, lower North Health entered an agreement with the Balaklava Area Committee which saw the ongoing planning and defining the structure and governance ar-rangements.

For months, although there was no progress on the site, the fundamentals were being put in place.

At the time, Wakefield Regional Council’s chief executive officer Phil Barry said it was important to get the structure right to protect the volunteer support base.

“We were keen to get the structure right, so the volunteers involved are not exposed,” he said.

Three successful grant applications were used to purchase the shed, electrical wiring and to purchase a few tools.

There are still many items the committee need to get together, and they are seeking dona-tions of items such as:

• wood (for benches, seats and toys); • screws, nails, glue, putty and sandpaper;

• raffle prizes;• paint and varnish;• donations of money;• tool sets (commercial quality);• safety equipment (fire extinguisher, safety

blanket, goggles and earmuffs);• gardening equipment;• kitchen utensils such as tea towels and

mugs; and overhead ceiling fans.This list is not exhaustive and anything

which could be used to offer a service to the community would be appreciated.

(All tools and safety equipment must confirm to OHs standards).

“Cash donations would also be appreciated and enable the committee to buy additional items,” said committee member Ruth Ari-kawe.

Completion of the shed, located next to the old squash courts, is just weeks away, and the committee is keen for the community to go and see what it’s all about and to suggest ideas for projects which would benefit the community.

Whilst there are some thoughts on how the shed will be used, the organising committee is keen to hear from the community about how it could be used.

Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month from 10am to 12 noon, and bar-becues follow the May, August and November meetings.

“New members are always welcome to at-tend,” Ruth said.

Committee:Chairperson:LowerNorthHealthmen’sworker-JohnMonten(88426555)andKateJenkinsSecretary:JeffHennig(88621904)andJuttaLorenzTreasurer:HelenPinkatshek(88622034)andSharonMunceMembers:RuthArikawe,BruceMoffat,DickMay,DulcieWilliams,DaphButler,GrahamLawrieandJohnWarren.

CoMMuNiTyshedvolunteers(fromleft)RuthArikawe,DickMay,SharonMunce,HelenPinkatshek,JohnSealandBruceMoffatcelebrateastheprojectcomestofruition.

This is more than just a shed

GOLF CLUB:Dares to dream

Private company expected to back multi-million dollar upgrade

n Continued Page 2

Balaklava golf club development plan

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Balaklava Golf Club is planning a multi-million dollar upgrade in a proposal to be majority funded by a private developer.

a key component of the proposal was the fact the club would retain ownership of the course and clubhouse.

an extraordinary general meeting of club members last Tuesday night voted to endorse the proposal put forward by the club’s man-agement committee.

The committee is currently in planning stages with an adelaide property devel-oper to radically change the landscape of the course.

Balaklava Golf Club president, Scott

Michael, said the club had formed a task force “to examine its current membership numbers and lower than desired income streams.”

The draft plans, which would possibly be completed in stages and required the purchase of a parcel of adjoining land, include:

• Two storey townhouse style rental ac-commodation and other housing.

• an upgrade of the existing clubhouse which would be remodelled to include res-taurant-style facilities.

• a wellness centre, which could include a day spa, massage facilities and more, acting as an attraction for women or non-golfers.

• a bike track around the course to link to the

Balaklava township would follow the old rail corridor from Halbury. Water retention ponds would also be created around the course to help supplement water supply.

Club president, Scott Michael, said the committee could not see membership fees rising exorbitantly. There were a number of reasons favouring the development.

“although falling membership numbers have been arrested, we still need to cement our facility as a fixture in the Lower North,”Mr Michael said.

“We currently have an ageing workforce tending the course on a volunteer basis which is not sustainable.

“We would like to return to paid greens staff – but do not currently have the income to afford it.”

Mr Michael said the club had always been progressive.

In 1967 members voted to move to its current location from what is now Moody Estate in Balaklava, with the course officially opened in 1969.

“The club progressed to irrigated fairways in 1970-73, with the current clubhouse built in 1982/83,” Mr Michael said.

“The club took a huge leap installing greens which opened in 1995, making the course one of the better regional courses in the state.”

THE PROPOSAL:

BALAKLAVA Golf Club – the 1980s era club house will be upgraded to include restaurant style facilities.

Mallala Council will move to Two WellsSuRPRiSE 6-5 dECiSiOnMallala council will relo-

cate its office accommodation and depot to Two Wells after a close six-five vote last week.

The decision to only consider Two Wells locations has divided Distr ict Council of Mallala councillors, with some believing

it could cost council hundreds of thousands of dollars more, and others adamant it will save money.

However, the implications will remain unclear until staff present a revised draft budget Monday evening. Following the meeting

last week, councillors against the decision voiced disappointment the community was not consulted, labelling it “irresponsible”, and raising concerns the chosen loca-tion may be part of a floodplain.

Councillors were initially asked to identify depot redevel-

opment sites for a detailed cost benefit analysis, and were given a briefing on the preliminary cost estimations for six sites, including potential sites at Mallala, Dublin and Two Wells.

and redevelopment of the clubhouse.It is a non-complying development and so

must go through State government Planning approval. We continue to await the outcome of the development application.

In June, Wakefield Regional Council an-nounced plans for Balaklava’s million-dollar Community Waste Management scheme, which would allow treated water to be piped to the race course, school ovals and some parks. Today – June 2009 – we are seeing the CWMs scheme take shape in Balaklava. It will mean a great deal to the greening of the town. Read more elsewhere within this feature. A downside to 2008 was the state government’s unpopular Country Health plan, which threatened our hospitals.

True to form, Balaklava’s community ral-

lied to fight for its beloved Soldier’s Memo-rial Hospital, with this newspaper leading the charge. People power won and the govern-ment was forced into an embarrassing back down over the ill-conceived Country Health Plan. Why didn’t they ask us first? In August, syngas came to the area searching for lignite and proposing to make it into diesel.

An ambitious scheme, if it comes to fruition it will mean much for Balaklava as the hub of the north. speaking of hubs, in November 08 Balaklava continued to be pushed by the Wakefield Group of councils as a “health hub” for the region. With a new group of doctors running Wakefield Plains Medical Clinic in Balaklava, the “hub” is seen as vital to medical services, further strengthening the town’s growth potential.

Plains Producer, Wednesday June 24, 2009 www.plainsproducer.com.au K


The drive continues today

BALAKLAVA

CLARE

ADELAIDE

GAWLER

Port Wakefi eld

Brinkworth

Mallala

Two Wells

Owen

KapundaHamley Bridge

BlythSnowtown

Burra

SaddleworthHalbury

Auburn

Tarlee

Riverton

Lochiel

Pinery

Marrabel

Virginia

Wasley

Watervale

Dublin

EDITOR

Terry [email protected]

REPORTER

Lauren [email protected]

PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa [email protected]

REPORTER

Karen [email protected]

Your award winning news team

OWNER/MANAGER

Andrew [email protected]

ADVERTISING MANAGER

David [email protected]

DESIGNER

James [email protected]

Send your news, letters, views, sport, adverts – and we will share them with more than 7,000 readers each week The Plains Producer, 9 Howe Street Balaklava Phone: 8862 1977 Fax: 8862 1997

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per 2

008

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EARLIER this year, on Australia Day, Shamus Liptrot stole the show in Balaklava’s Triangle with a passion-

ate “thankyou” speech.The recovering Halbury

cyclist stunned the crowd as he climbed from his wheelchair to personally thank them for helping him through a tough period after a cycling accident in Tasma-nia about 18 months ago.

Wakefi eld Regional Council lent its support to Owen’s Joy Woodroofe with her “Adopt-a-Town” idea, aimed at helping Victorian bushfi re victims. Balaklava people got right behind Joy, an “ex-pat” Balaklava-ite

and today we can see the results of her ef-forts. In March, it was more good news for Balaklava – and us! The Plains Producer was named best country newspaper with a circulation of less than 2,500. And then it was big news for Balaklava High School,

❉Our spirit

DULCIE Williams was awarded Balaklava Area Committee’s achievement.

DETERMINATION:Showing us how

2009with the announcement in March it would lead a $2.6 million TAFE project. Horizon Christian School was another winner, gain-ing $2 million in Federal funding to build a multipurpose hall for a gymnasium and expanding its Reception to Year 12 physical education curriculum.

Meanwhile, talks continue this month on the planned merger of Balaklava’s public high and primary schools (and the Balak-lava Community Children’s Centre).

In April, more big news from mineral explorer Syngas, with its announcement of a positive spin to pre-feasibility studies to convert brown coal (lignite) to diesel.

To be mined at Clinton and Beaufort, the proposed industry would be a massive boost to Balaklava, with about 380 jobs created within the local community.

Balaklava’s “CornerStone Cottages” were opened on Gwy Terrace in April.

A development backed by Churches of Christ Community Care, the cottages were supported by the State government, with $233,000 from its Affordable Housing In-novation Fund, adding to $120,000 from

Balaklava Church of Christ and $36,000 from its Swap Shop. The church was one of the fi rst community groups to join in partnership with the Affordable Housing Innovations Program to provide affordable housing to low and middle income families.

Today, we are looking at a similar but larger concept at Wattle Ridge.

This year Balaklava and other Wakefi eld Regional Council towns fi nally were pre-sented with a recycling program, as council agreed to introduce fortnightly recycling collection – to start within a few days!

Which brings us almost up to date.There is still plenty to come for the rest

of 2009, with the renovation of Balaklava’s 100 year old Ralli Park grandstand just one of the challenges faced by the residents of Balaklava. There will be success – because that’s what people power targets.

And if you have taken the time to be enlightened by what has happened in Balak-lava in just 52 months, you certainly will be awaiting the next 52 with some excitement.

As you have seen throughout this feature, the proof is in the past!

SHAMUS Liptrot addresses the crowd in Balaklava at the Australia Day

celebrations, with his father Malcolm and mother Patricia by his side.

Wakefi eld Regional Council CEO, Phil Barry, holds the microphone.

IN BALAKLAVA, it is not only develop-ment that thrives. A strong community spirit exists, where locals are always

ready to get behind a cause and support those in need, whether it be the victims of bushfi res, the victim of an accident, or even their local sporting clubs.

When young Halbury cyclist Shamus Liptrot was injured in an horrifi c cycling accident, the community rallied in support, raising hundreds of dollars to help with his rehabilitation. The family was overwhelmed

courts each Saturday to cheer on their teams, while others keep a close eye on the hockey action, tennis, and summer sports.

The annual Balaklava Show is the culmi-nation of the hard work of several volun-teers, enjoyed by hundreds of showgoers.

Take a walk down the main street of Balaklava and the atmosphere is friendly.

People stop and say hello, have a chat, and those behind the counter or stacking the shelves in the local businesses are always eager to help.

by the support, and one year after the ac-cident, when Shamus himself stood from his wheelchair on Australia Day and thanked the community for their support, it brought a tear to the eyes of many.

After the Victorian bushfi res, communi-ties across Australia rallied in support, and Balaklava was no exception. Guided by the vision of Owen’s Joy Woodroofe, hundreds of beanies, scarfs, gloves, rugs, and even leg warmers were donated across the Wakefi eld council area.

In Balaklava alone, the donations contin-ued to fl ow on beanie day last Friday.

Those who were unable to knit donated goods they had bought, while others had the knitting needles clicking as they lovingly created much needed beanies and scarfs for the community of Callignee, Victoria.

Individuals volunteer to help out their neighbours, the elderly, or even to read this newspaper to elderly residents at the Mill Court aged care facility.

There are the quiet achievers who help in so many capacities but often go un-no-ticed, and the very busy community catering group, cooking up a storm each race day to raise funds for several community groups. Then there are the businesses that strongly support the development of school students through the public speaking competition, the dedicated committee that each year organises the renowned Balaklava Eistedd-fod, and the community arts group, which never fails to put on a popular show for the community to enjoy.

The competitive spirit is well and truly kicking within sporting clubs too, with hundreds lining the football oval and netball

PEOPLE:Caring for others

Community support is always here

L www.plainsproducer.com.au ThePlainsProducer,WednesdayJune24,2009

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