New energy boost

By Kath Gannaway
A NEW, big (very big), diary would have been on top of Cr Jeanette McRae’s Christmas list, if she could wait that long.
Just four days into her new role, the new Ryrie Ward councillor had notched up a whole day of ‘orientation’, a tourism launch, a meeting in the city and the start of a significant phone bill.
“I am quite prepared for it to be hard work but I’ve always been a busy person and I believe I’m up to the challenge,” Cr McRae said.
A former Shire of Yarra Ranges employee and member of a number of key environment and other community groups, Cr McRae has a broad background in a number of areas which should stand her in good stead.
She has worked in Federal Government in finance, human resource management, risk management and occupational health and safety and in local government in township and strategic planning.
But she rates as equally important the experience she gained in her original role with the Shire of Yarra Ranges in customer service.
“Customer service really allows you to get a broad appreciation of all the areas the shire operates in and where to refer customer queries to get results.”
Cr McRae listed improving communication between the council and communities as one of several goals to be achieved over the next three years.
“I am also very interested in local initiatives that support young people and the development of townships with a holistic perspective.
“So we’re not just looking primarily at the economic aspects but looking also from a social and environmental perspective as well.
“It’s about development that assists local employment and is sustainable but which complements the existing character or nature of the community,” she said.
Part of Cr McRae’s communication drive will be monthly meetings in Healesville, Yarra Glen and Coldstream and, if called for, in outlying communities such as Steels Creek and Badger Creek.
“It’s not about people coming to me at Lilydale,” she said.
“It’s about me making myself available where the people are.”
Cr McRae said she was looking forward to working in the new council where five of the nine councillors are new to the job.
“There is this amazing energy with the new council and everyone is feeling really invigorated and excited by the opportunities and the challenges.”