Advance Morwell Inc. Blog

Member Update - March 2025

Community — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 07:24:39 GMT

Read the PDF Version with photos here

Marvellous Merry Morwell Festival

With thousands of people coming out to enjoy the fine weather and share in the spirit of the season, there was a tremendous community response to Advance Morwell’s inaugural Merry Morwell Festival, held at the Town Common in December.

In addition to Santa’s arrival on the Morwell CFA fire truck, the event included St Vincent’s Primary School students and local choirs performing, arts and crafts market stalls, face painting, food trucks and BBQ’s, and a display of around 100 classic cars.

Advance Morwell received many positive comments from community members during the event, saying it was the best community event Morwell has seen in many years.

We need to give a huge thanks to David McInnes, Alfi Prestipino, Tony Salvatore, Zane Corbett and Graham Lougheed, who played key roles in staging such a successful and well received event for the Morwell community. We could not have delivered this without great support from Latrobe City and our many sponsors, performers, stall holders and vendors, whose contribution is greatly appreciated.

It was wonderful to get such great feedback about the event, but also to hear people say that they loved Morwell and having the opportunity to come together as a community.

With the success of this year’s event, Advance Morwell is planning to hold a similar event next year.

Advance Morwell Member Australia Day Recognition 2025 Citizen of the Year Nominee David McInnes

Advance Morwell’s David McInnes was a nominee for the 2025 Latrobe City Citizen of the Year Award. The longest serving member of the Advance Morwell Committee (current Deputy Chair), David has demonstrated immense support for Advance Morwell, being an active participant in all we do, selflessly offering his time and involvement.

David is unwavering in his commitment to Morwell. He is involved in and supports many organisations, including the Morwell Rotary Club, Morwell Historical Society and Neighbourhood House. He has a quiet, can-do attitude, and gets things done.

David’s selflessness and dedication make him a role model for others and a true asset to our community.

Anti-social behaviour

Advance Morwell recently met with both the Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron and the CEO, Mayor and Latrobe City Councillors to seek action to address the escalating levels of anti-social behaviour in the CBD.

We provided detailed examples of the behaviours being exhibited in the CBD and the negative and significant impact that this is having on traders and residents. The communities desire for immediate action to address this problem was clearly communicated.

Martin will be raising this concern in Parliament and Council are looking to address the issue with initial actions including the removal of seating from the Commercial Road/Tarwin Street intersection.

Advance Morwell has also gained the support of Committee for Gippsland who have written to the Minister for Police, Community Safety, Victims and Racing, to seek support in dealing with anti-social behaviour and increase community safety by:

Increasing enforcement, more additional local laws officers and policing resources
Expanding CCTV coverage in key areas to improve public safety and assist law enforcement
Providing greater social outreach support, particularly in response to changes to public drunkenness laws, ensuring those in need receive appropriate care while maintaining community safety.

Advance Morwell will shortly launch a community safety survey to assess how safe people feel in Morwell, what they see as safety issues and what they would like done to address these.

High Profile Court Case in Morwell

With crowds of photographers, camera crews, and crime reporters converging in town, the Erin Patterson murder trial is to be held in Morwell for up to six weeks from April 28, putting us on the world stage.

Recognising that this will have a big impact on Morwell’s reputation, Advance Morwell wants our town to look its best. We have written to Latrobe City asking them to action a range of civic maintenance items.

As this trial is a unique opportunity to promote Morwell positively, we remind our business members that we are all in the tourism business and the presentation of your businesses and the service you provide is critical in shaping how we are perceived.

AGM Update

Our AGM was held on 2 December 2024, with little change to the committee of David Burt, Alfi Prestipino, Graham Lougheed, Tony Salvatore, and Yousef Ibrahim. Officer bearers are: Chair: Graeme Sennett, Deputy Chair: David McInnes, Treasurer: Shashi Bhatti, Membership Officer: Howard Williams

Lobbying for Morwell

In addition to anti-social behaviour issues, Advance Morwell continues to lobby for Morwell, having written to and met with Council Officers to seek CPI increases for the annual Christmas Grant, improvements in Christmas decorations and improvements in garden maintenance and litter collection

Franchise of the Year Winner Morwell’s Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety

At the 2024 Hip Pocket National Conference Morwell’s Hip Pocket Latrobe Valley, not only took out the Victorian State Award, they also won the National Franchise of the Year!

The awards were judged over 12 months based on criteria such as Compliance, Professional Brand, Store Performance and Presentation, Supplier Support, Group Engagement and Local Area Marketing. This award shows that, with strong leadership, hard work and a great team Morwell business can be the best in Australia. Congratulations!!

Your feedback is important

As your voice and advocate, it is important that we are aware of opportunities to progress Morwell or those that are negatively impacting our town. Contact us and let us know about any issues that you believe are holding Morwell back and need to be addressed.

Your ongoing support is highly valued, as we continue to represent Morwell

A very merry Morwell

Community — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:19:20 GMT

Media Release 13 December 2024

A very merry Morwell

Thousands of residents turned out to attend Advance Morwell’s inaugural Merry Morwell Festival, held at the Morwell Town Common on Thursday evening.

Advance Morwell Chair Graeme Sennett said “Advance Morwell has been blown away by the tremendous community response to the Merry Morwell Festival, the weather was perfect, atmosphere was great and the feedback from everybody has been fantastic”.

The event included St Vincent’s Primary School students and local choirs performing, arts and crafts market stalls, face painting, food trucks and BBQ’s, in addition to around 100 classic cars on display.

A highlight of the evening was St Vincent’s students enthusiastically performing on stage, which was shortly followed by Santa’s arrival on the Morwell CFA fire truck.

According to Mr Sennett, it was the best community event Morwell has seen in many a year with larger than expected crowds coming out to enjoy the fine weather and share in the spirit of the season.

Numerous food trucks sold out and many of the stalls reported excellent trade.

Mr Sennett said “Seeing our voluntary committee deliver such a successful and well received event for the Morwell community is so rewarding. We need to give a huge thanks to thanks to David McInnes, Alfi Prestipino, Tony Salvatore, Zane Corbett and Graham Lougheed, who played key roles in staging the event.”

“While it’s fantastic to be able to work with such great people who give so much back to their local community, we could not have delivered this without great support from Latrobe City and our many sponsors, performers, stall holders and vendors, whose contribution we value so highly.” He added.

Advance Morwell received many positive comments from community members during the event, with a consistent theme being a desire to see more similar events held in Morwell.

He said “It is wonderful to get such great feedback, not just about the event, but hearing people say they loved Morwell and having the opportunity to come together as a community”.

According to Mr Sennett, events such as this make a huge contribution to social connectivity and play a critical role in energising and building a sense of Community.

With the success of this year’s event, Advance Morwell intends to hold a similar event next year and will be working with Latrobe City to organise smaller community events in the Morwell CBD.

Further Information

For further information contact Graeme Sennett, T: 0417 509 149

Annual Report 2023/24

Community — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:13:07 GMT

Overview

Recognising another year serving the Morwell and Latrobe City community, 2023 was Advance Morwell’s 26^th year of operation. This year has been one of progressive renewal and rebirth for Advance Morwell.

In March 2024, at our last Annual General Meeting, we saw the retirement of our long-standing Secretary and Life Member Keith Brownbill. A foundation member of Advance Morwell, Keith made an immense contribution to Morwell and was actively involved in many of our activities, including: preparing award-winning Tidy Town submissions, installation and maintenance of CBD rose planter boxes, the Morwell Town Common Redevelopment, multiple community events including the initial International Rose Garden festivals, new town entrance signage, and the development of the Sir Stanley Savige Memorial and Legacy Place.

Keith’s resignation and subsequent passing signaled the end of an era. Along with John Guy and Max Williamson, Keith was part of a triumvirate who for many years - ably led this organisation and contributed so much to Advance Morwell and our Community. Advance Morwell is investigating opportunities for permanent recognition of these individuals’ contribution to Morwell.

During the first half of the financial year, our Committee worked to rebrand and refresh our organisation, culminating in the election of new Committee members at our last Annual General Meeting. This has brought new energy and fresh ideas to the Committee table, setting the foundations for a bright future.

Committee

This year we were fortunate to have five new experienced business professionals and community advocates join the Committee. Representing the higher education, commercial and retail sectors, Yousef Ibrahim, Graham Lougheed, Alfi Prestipino and Tony Salvatore, have helped reinvigorate the Committee, with their diverse insights and skills.

While for much of the year, we did not have a full committee, those members who have continued to actively support the delivery of our efforts must be recognised. Those Committee Members include Graeme Sennett, Chair and Secretary David McInnes; Deputy Chair; Shashi Bhatti, Treasurer; Howard Williams, Membership Officer: and David Burt, Business Relations.

Committee meetings are held monthly with a representative of Latrobe City Council now attending.

Business Sector

Recognising that the Advance Morwell Traders Group became inactive some time ago, , the Committee has made multiple overtures during the year to engage and reinvigorate this group. Unfortunately, except for Donna Hicks at Dear Delilah, there has been little interest, with trader representation remaining a future opportunity to be progressed.

Membership

We recognise and appreciate all our longstanding members and those who have joined more recently in supporting us to advocate for Morwell & Latrobe City.

While our membership base remains relatively steady, our new Committee recognises that our future relies strongly upon having engaged members. To this end, we are progressively increasing our member engagement with a focus on achieving 200 members by 2025/26.

ANZAC Day

Shashi Bhatti represented Advance Morwell on Anzac Day, laying a wreath on Advance Morwell’s behalf in remembrance of those Morwell Residents who have served their country in times of conflict.

Representation

We continue to lobby both the Latrobe City Council and State Governments on issues affecting Morwell, Latrobe City and Gippsland. We have had continued contact with Morwell Councilors and Member for Morwell Martin Cameron.

Howard Williams continues to represent Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee which was formed at the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire and has continued over the years since. An Emergency Plan for Morwell is the last remaining objective to be delivered.

Howard Williams also represents Advance Morwell on the Energy Australia Yallourn Environmental Review Committee, and we thank Howard for this work.

Advance Morwell was also represented on the International Rose Festival Committee.

Recognising that Advance Morwell supported the establishment of the Latrobe City Business Chamber (LCBC) and following their provision of 2022/23 honorary LCBC membership to our business members, we have met with LCBC executive regarding the continuation of joint membership for interested business members.

Along with numerous community agencies and Latrobe City Council, Advance Morwell participated in a Community Safety Round Table that was organised by Harriet Shing to address behaviour concerns in the Morwell CBD.

Mine Rehabilitation and Transition

Advance Morwell continues to monitor and be involved in discussions on the Mine rehabilitation as it progresses and maintain an active interest in the management of Hazelwood Mine Rehabilitation Works.

We maintain a close relationship with Energy Australia to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for closure, rehabilitation and new developments.

We also engaged with the Latrobe Valley Authority, hearing from Chris Buckingham, Latrobe Valley Authority CEO, about their plan which reflects community engagement, changes in the local industrial landscape and research on international experience.

Committee for Gippsland

We have continued our membership of the Committee for Gippsland, utilising this relationship to lobby on regional issues such as the delivery of the Traralgon Bypass which is essential for the future of the transport industry in Gippsland.

Gippsland Rail Revival

Initial engagement with these works was positive with the construction of the offset platform arrangement as proposed by Advance Morwell, reducing impact on parking and providing additional access from the Bus Terminal to facilitate intermodal transfers. However, the Committee has been frustrated at the lack of progress in finalising these works.

David McInnes and Graeme Sennett met with Regional Rail Revival to discuss regeneration works for Alexandra Park and Advance Morwell has continued to lobby for the reinstatement of town assets and the opening of the new platform, which has been deferred by poor resource planning and delayed signaling infrastructure installation.

Car Parking

Advance Morwell has a history of actively lobbying for improved car parking in Morwell which resulted in the delivery of new car parking at Morwell Train Station, and on the site of the former Ampol petrol station and garage.

Additionally, the formalisation of car parking on the Commercial Road/Jane Street Bridge corner completes another of Advance Morwell’s requested town improvements – one which we first lobbied for in 2009.

We continue to work with Latrobe City on enhancing parking in the Morwell CBD, meeting with Latrobe City Council to discuss the proposed development of a multi-story carpark to be erected opposite the Art Gallery and Legal Precinct.

Community Advocacy

Advance Morwell has continued to champion local issues and celebrate business achievements.

Following the closure of the Morwell NAB branch Advance Morwell was vocal on local radio stations and newsprint, highlighting the significant impact that this has had on the business and broader community. We raised how it has not only disproportionately affected our elderly and vulnerable community members but that our traders now incur additional costs, security risks and time penalties to do their banking.

Advance Morwell celebrated local success story, Aussie Broadband, who was awarded the 2023 Gippsland Business Awards ‘Hall of Fame’ award. This Morwell business has grown from a small regional internet provider to the fifth largest telco in Australia which is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. For many in Morwell, it creates a great sense of pride to see a business that was started by a local lad, grow and prosper, while still maintaining its headquarters in the town.

Civic Engagement

Recognising the deterioration in the appearance of Commercial Road garden beds, Advance Morwell met with Council Officers responsible for garden maintenance, conducting a walk through of the area which subsequently resulted in a planting refresh.

In 2016, Advance Morwell organised three outdoor musical instruments for Morwell’s Legacy Place. After being stolen in July 2019, one of these items (valued at $7,000) was recovered by police in 2022, and in 2023 Advance Morwell finalised the relocation to Town Common playground.

Members of the Committee routinely engage with Council to ensure civic maintenance issues are addressed.

Christmas Promotion

Advance Morwell organised a Christmas promotion which was held on Saturday 16th December 2023, that included a roving Santa distributing lollies, face painting and Morwell Band playing in Commercial Road.

Additionally, several cafes participated in a coffee giveaway, partially funded by the Latrobe City Christmas Grant. Each café was provided with 50 coffees to give away. Feedback on the initiatives was extremely positive.

Advance Morwell also utilised a portion of the Latrobe City Christmas Grant to support Rotary Community Fun Day.

Initiatives

During the year several new initiatives have been instigated.

The Committee agreed in principle with the concept of painting murals in the town. Work is underway to identify suitable artists, planning requirements, and walls where landlords would allow painting.
Recognising the economic benefits of an RV town and the requirements associated with this, a potential site has been identified with meetings of relevant stakeholders and Latrobe City now underway.

Branding and Web site

As part of a broader renewal plan, the Committee agreed to complete a branding refresh and update of the Advance Morwell website, which commenced in July 2023.

Advance Morwell engaged “The Content Queen” Mariah MacInnes who worked with the Committee and selected members to complete the review.

Within the constraints of our member management system platform, our website www.advancemorwell.org.au now has a new layout, new images and more accessible content including Committee biographies.

Honouring our previous logo, we have refreshed our brand, with new typography and modified colours which are more contemporary and in line with our existing rose iconography, all reflected in our new branding guide.

Mission and Objectives

Based on initial work undertaken as part of the branding review the Committee reviewed our mission, values, and strategic directions. Our objective was to ensure that they accurately reflect Advance Morwell and our ongoing role in the community, enhancing our ability to serve you better and make a positive impact.

Mission

Advance Morwell and Latrobe City by creating opportunities for business and the broader community.

Values

Innovation – embracing the power of new ideas, creativity and invention
Collaboration – working together to achieve great things
Community – achieving through connecting, interacting, and growing together
Opportunity – creating the environment to grow and develop
Passion – pursuing our goals with enthusiasm and determination

Strategic Directions

Leadership: Drive the positive development of Morwell and its community.

Advocacy: Lobby all levels of government to promote Morwell's growth, advocating for businesses and residents.
Business Support: Actively support businesses to foster regional development.
Unity: Establish positive links promoting unity in Latrobe City by working together with other associations on matters of wider Latrobe City interest.

Marketing: Build a Positive Image for Morwell

Business Development: Enable the promotion and growth of Morwell’s business and retail sectors.
Community Relations: Advance the relationship between Morwell’s retail, commercial and office precincts.
Innovation: Support the creation of a modern commercial appearance for Morwell.
Partnership: Encourage and promote the development of new and existing businesses
Promotion: Highlight Morwell’s attractions, history, and achievements.

Improvement: Enhance Morwell through business development activities, promotional events, and property appearance initiatives.

Community Relations: Strengthen relationships within Morwell’s retail precincts and encourage new and existing business development.
Development Opportunities: Consult with Latrobe City to facilitate retail and residential development opportunities.
Latrobe City Collaboration: Partner with Latrobe City to enhance the built environment, public safety, and overall attractiveness of Morwell for shopping, visiting, living, and working.
Positive Image: Build a modern commercial appearance and promote a positive image for Morwell among constituents.
Strategic Intent: To have 200 active members
making a difference to Morwell

Merry Morwell Festival - Thursday 12 December

Community — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:46:18 GMT

Merry Morwell Festival Flyer.pdf

Member Update - November 2024

Community — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:56:46 GMT

Annual General Meeting

7pm Monday 2 December 2024 – Morwell Historical Society, 12 Hazelwood Road, Morwell

Come along to our Annual General Meeting, meet the Committee and hear all about what we have been doing, including our Merry Morwell Festival which we are organising for Thursday 12 December at the Morwell Town Common. RSVP to admin@advancemorwell.org.au

Committee Update

A new committee was elected at our last Annual General Meeting in March, which has brought fresh new ideas and energy to Advance Morwell. With the broader committee comprising of David Burt, Alfi Prestipino, Graham Lougheed, Tony Salvatore, Yousef Ibrahim, and Jenny Rutherford, leading Advance Morwell are:

Chair: Graeme Sennett
Deputy Chair: David McInnes
Treasurer: Shashi Bhatti
Membership Officer: Howard Williams

The role of Secretary remains vacant.

Learn more about our committee members.

Website Refresh

Since late last year, we have been working to update our website www.advancemorwell.org.au which now has a new layout, new images and more accessible content.

Rebrand

When we decided to update our website, we thought it was time to update our branding and improve our online presence. Honouring our previous logo, we have refreshed our look, to be more contemporary and in line with our future ambitions, all reflected in our new branding guide.

Mission and Objectives

This year, we have also taken the opportunity to reaffirm our mission, values, and strategic directions, ensuring that they accurately reflect Advance Morwell and our ongoing role in the community. We believe these changes will enhance our ability to serve you better and make a positive impact.

Your ongoing support is needed and highly valued, as we continue to represent Morwell

Vale Keith Brownbill OAM

Community — Sat, 07 Sep 2024 10:45:45 GMT

Media Release 31 August 2024

Vale Keith Brownbill OAM

Advance Morwell is mourning the loss of founding member and long serving Secretary Keith Brownbill OAM.

Advance Morwell Chair Graeme Sennett said that Mr Brownbill’s contribution to the Morwell community had been immense.

A foundation member of Advance Morwell, Mr Brownbill, 96, had been actively involved in the organisation since its inception, over 25 years ago, only stepping down as Secretary (a role he had held for over 20 years) in March this year.

According to Mr Sennett, Mr Brownbill was a quiet achiever who passionately and consistently worked for Morwell’s betterment both as a community member and well-respected educator.

After beginning as a student teacher in 1945, Mr Brownbill commenced his teacher training in 1946 and started as a fully trained teacher at Hamilton High in 1950. He moved to Horsham in 1956, then Traralgon in 1960 before becoming Principal of Kaniva High School in 1963.

During 1970, as part of League for Exchange of Commonwealth teachers’ program, he spent a year in London teaching at the St Albans Girls Grammar School.

Mr Brownbill and his family moved to Morwell in 1972 when he was appointed principal of Morwell High School, a role he held until his retirement in 1987. At this time he was the longest serving school principal in the State, having been in charge of schools for 25 years.

Mr Brownbill believed that education could be a major factor in people’s development, as it had been for him, coming from a small farming family in Inglewood on the old goldfields where his family had a love of learning.

He believed the most important factor in education was the quality of teaching staff, and that “students must be encouraged to aim high, to test their arm, to be unafraid of failure”. He was an educational visionary, demonstrated in his championing of the transition of Morwell High School into the Morwell Campus of Kurnai College. He saw this change as providing students with the benefit of wider and more exciting opportunities and a model for schools throughout the nation.

The relationships Mr Brownbill developed with his staff, students and their families were testament to his good nature and the high esteem in which he was held, supporting him in his community endeavours for years to come.

Mr Sennett said “With his great literacy, interests in sport, international affairs and overseas experiences, such as teaching English in China, Mr Brownbill brought immense value to discussions about Morwell’s development, understanding a broader perspective than many others.”

“It was with much gratitude and in recognition of his excellent service that Mr Brownbill was awarded life membership in 2017.”

Mr Brownbill was actively involved in many of Advance Morwell’s initiatives.

“He was extremely proud of Morwell and wanted to create an attractive and inviting urban environment. He organised the installation and maintenance of rose planter boxes throughout the CBD and for many years, despite his advancing age, could be seen dutifully watering these during the summer months.’ Said Mr Sennett.

His passion for the town was always evident, whether it was his involvement in the Airlie Bank Homestead restoration, Morwell Town Common Redevelopment, preparing numerous award-winning Tidy Town submissions, or organising various community events (including the initial International Rose Garden festivals).

Mr Brownbill was always looking for ways to enhance the town both physically and as a tourist destination. He initiated the development of a Morwell tourism brochure, lobbied for new town entrance signage which he worked with Max Williamson to create.

One of his major legacies is the Sir Stanley Savige memorial and Legacy Place development, which Advance Morwell initiated and he along with Max Williamson played a significant role in bringing to fruition.

He was a keen supporter of Morwell traders, running Morwell’s Main Street and Streetlife projects for many years and always wanted to engage with the community, organising musical events in the Rose Garden, Morwell’s Christmas activities including various incarnations of Christmas Carol events.

Advance Morwell was just one of many organisations that benefited from Mr Brownbill’s tireless work. Having joined the Kaniva Rotary Club in 1965, he was a long-term member of Morwell Rotary, including being President in 1983/84, and was recently granted Honorary Membership by the club.

He was the organiser of the annual Len Falk Lecture, a member of the Australian College of Education, including being Secretary/Treasurer of their Gippsland Group for eight years and was on a number of course advisory Committees of the Gippsland Institute of Advanced Education.

“Awarded Citizen of the Year in 2000, Mr Brownbill’s contribution has been immense, he was active in so many aspects of our community. An original member of the Latrobe Valley U3A in 1989, he was a respected and much liked tutor of French and Current Affairs, undertaking many roles including Planner and President.

He was also instrumental in establishing the Community Road Safety Councils in Victoria, being past president and longest standing member of the Gippsland Community Road Safety Organisation; a format adopted across the country.” Added Mr Sennett.

Mr Brownbill was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his services the community in 2012, having received a Centenary Medal in 2001.

Mr Sennett said, “In a Morwell High School tribute, Mr Brownbill was referred to as ‘a man of wit, intellect, culture, enlightenment and scholarship’, and I can think of no better epitaph for a man who has contributed so much and engaged with so many.”

Annual Report 2022/2023

Community — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:04:33 GMT

Overview

2022 marked the 25th year of operation of Advance Morwell and tonight we recognise another year of serving the Morwell and Latrobe City community.

This year has been a challenging one for Advance Morwell. The unexpected loss of our long serving and highly respected Chair, John Guy OAM, was keenly felt by the Committee.

John’s contribution to Advance Morwell was significant and like all his other commitments, demonstrated his passion for the town, its people and organisations, along with his willingness to serve.

Despite many health issues over the years, John continued in the role of Chair representing and guiding Advance Morwell as we responded to a changing range of issues.

It is largely due to John’s sound stewardship that Advance Morwell has been able to continue to represent the interests of our traders and townspeople.

Committee

Again, this year we experienced the challenge of obtaining suitable Committee Members who are willing to assume Executive Roles. This situation continues, as we are still seeking new committee members to help drive and represent the organisation.

While we have not had the luxury of a full committee, those members who have continued to actively support the delivery of our efforts must be recognised. Those Committee Members include Graeme Sennett, Acting Chair and Secretary; Shashi Bhatti, Treasurer; Howard Williams, Membership Officer: David McInnes; Community Relations and David Burt, Business Relations.

It must be noted that in October, our Treasurer, Shashi Bhatti, experienced a significant motorcycle accident resulting in his being hospitalised for some time. Despite this, he continued to undertake the role of Treasurer and we thank him for his diligence during this difficult time.

The Advance Morwell Committee meets monthly at the Morwell Bowling Club and we acknowledge the management and staff of the for their generosity in providing a venue for our meetings.

Business Sector

With changes in local business ownership, the Advance Morwell Traders Group became inactive some time ago. The Committee has discussed reinvigorating this group and has made initial overtures to some local traders to assess interest.

Membership

Our membership base remains relatively steady. We recognise and appreciate all our longstanding members and those who have joined more recently in supporting us to advocate for Morwell & Latrobe City.

ANZAC Day

We again participated in Anzac Day, laying a wreath in remembrance of those Morwell Residents who have served their country in times of conflict.

Representation

We continue to lobby both the Latrobe City Council and State Governments on issues affecting Morwell, Latrobe City and Gippsland. We have met with our Morwell Council representatives and have had continued contact with Morwell Councilors and our Member for Morwell Martin Cameron.

John Guy and Howard Williams continued to represent Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee which was formed at the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire and has continued over the years since. An Emergency Plan for Morwell is the last remaining objective to be delivered.

Howard Williams is Advance Morwell’s representative on the Energy Australia Yallourn Environmental review Commitee, and we thank Howard for this work.

Advance Morwell was also represented on the International Rose Festival Committee.

Advance Morwell supported the establishment of the Latrobe City Business Chamber(LCBC) and through ongoing discussions organised 2022/23 honorary LCBC membership for all our business members. We are awaiting a response to our proposal for continuing joint membership for our business members.

We have continued to maintain a close relationship with Energy Australia through David Burt to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for closure, new developments, and rehabilitation.

Mine Rehabilitation

We maintain an active interest in the management of Hazelwood Mine Rehabilitation Works. Advance Morwell continues to monitor and be involved in discussions on the Mine rehabilitation as it progresses.

Latrobe Valley Authority, Transition Plan

The Advance Morwell Committee has maintained an ongoing interest in the Latrobe Valley Authority’s Transition Plan, hearing from LVA CEO, Chris Buckingham who advised that in developing the plan, the LVA has engaged with the community, factored in recent industrial developments and other international experiences. Advance Morwell will continue to monitor developments.

Committee for Gippsland

Gippsland Rail Revival

It has been pleasing to see the continued progress of the Regional Rail Revival works.

The location of the new Morwell platform is a direct result of lobbying undertaken by Advance Morwell in the early planning stages of this project.

Initial plans impacted parking and Legacy Place, while providing a suboptimal arrival experience for rail patrons. The offset platform arrangement as proposed by Advance Morwell overcame these issues and provided additional access from the Bus Terminal to facilitate intermodal transfers.

We continue to lobby for the completion of remedial works and reinstatement of town assets following construction.

Car Parking

For over five years, Advance Morwell been actively lobbying for improved car parking in Morwell.

Over the past 12 months it has been pleasing to see the delivery of new car parking at Morwell Train Station, and in particular, on the site of the former Ampol petrol station and garage.

Despite much resistance, we continued to lobby the Minister for this site to be developed as we felt it provided easy access to the station and in its undeveloped states marred the visual amenity of the railway precinct.

We continue to work with Latrobe City on enhancing parking in the Morwell CBD

Community Support

Advance Morwell was pleased to support the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden with a significant donation of $8,000 to support their publication of a history of the rose garden. The 100 plus page soft cover coffee table book is a credit to the writers and designers and we are pleased to have been able to support this initiative which catalogues the creation and development of one of Morwell’s most valuable assets.

Advance Morwell also donated $300 to 1st Morwell Scout Group in support of their 100th birthday celebration in December 2022 (deferred from 2021 due to COVID). As one of the town’s oldest community organisations, it is important that this notable achievement was recognised.

Relocation of Musical Instruments

In November 2016, Advance Morwell organised for Morwell’s Legacy Place to become the home to three outdoor musical instruments. Unfortunately, in July 2019 one of these items (valued at $7,000) was stolen. This item was eventually recovered by police in 2022, following which Advance Morwell worked with Latrobe City to relocate this item and the remaining instruments to Town Common playground.

Christmas Promotion

Advance Morwell organised a Christmas promotion held from Friday 16th to Friday 23rd December 2022, with six cafes participating. Funded in part by the Latrobe City Christmas Grant, each café was provided with 50 coffees to give away and a music session provided by local guitarist James Harbor and vocalist Shanyn. Feedback on the initiative was extremely positive, with additional café’s contacting Advance Morwell to participate.

In addition to contributing $1,000 from our own funds, Advance Morwell also utilised some of the Latrobe City Christmas Grant to support Rotary Community Fun Day providing Traffic Management, First Aid, Signage, ATM Hire and a mobile farm.

Member event

Advance Morwell worked with nbnLocal to organise a NBN information evening for members to be held in July 2022. This was an education session, providing details on the nbn support services that are available for small business and residents. While attendance was not as strong as hoped, feedback on the information provided was positive.

Web site and Branding

As part of a broader renewal plan, the Committee agreed to complete a branding refresh and update of the Advance Morwell website. Work on these activities commenced in July 2023.

Graeme Sennett
Acting Chair

Achievements of Advance Morwell

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 19:21:21 GMT

Since its inception, Advance Morwell has achieved a lot:

Made several Parliamentary Submissions including into the closure of Hazelwood and Yallourn Power Stations, and the Rural and Regional Committee of the Victorian Parliament Centres of the Future
Successfully lobbied for CCTV to address CBD behaviour issues
Successfully opposed TRU Energy Mine’s buffer zone claim
Provided significant funding to the Morwell Rose Garden for the publication of their history
Successfully lobbied for replacement of old CBD Subway and initiated Legacy Place to recognise Sir Stanley Savige, founder of Legacy
Completed Airlie Bank Homestead Restoration
Successfully lobbied for the new railway platform to be co-located with the bus terminus
Organised numerous Christmas and supported other promotions and community celebrations
Organised TV advertising to promote Morwell Businesses post COVID
Opposed bank closures in the Morwell CBD
Organised Celebration of Roses community events
Staged Gippsland Band Concert and reintroduced Morwell Christmas Carols
Produced "Shopping in and around the Morwell CBD” booklet
Organised CBD decorative banners and Christmas decorations
Completed “Morwell Rose Town” initiative (stickers and rose tubs)
Supported introduction of Latrobe City Gift Card
Successfully lobbied to replace Morwell’s Community Service signage
Installed town entrance welcome signage
Actively participated in the Morwell Town Common Committee of Management
Installed musical instruments in Legacy Place
Successfully lobbied to convert the derelict Ampol Station site into parking
Supported the Antiques and Collectables Show and the 100th anniversary of the 1st Morwell Scout Group
Consistent Christmas Events in Morwell

Airlie Bank Homestead

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:38:33 GMT

Airlie Bank homestead and farm occupy a special place in Morwell’s history.

The history of Airlie Bank Homestead in Morwell Victoria dates back to 1879 when David Ogilvy built Airlie Bank. David Ogilvy and his family lived there until 1897 when it was sold to Robert Bridle, his wife and seven of their ten children. The Bridle family occupied Airlie Bank until 1959.

Consisting of the homestead, outbuildings and farm of 263 acres including a large brick cheesehouse and cellar standing between the house and nearby Waterhole creek. The original homestead was made up of a brick home, a detached timber kitchen, a bathroom and pantry on the south side, and a detached four-bedroom timber building on the north side. The major water supply was provided by a brick-lined concrete-rendered underground tank and a couple of smaller underground tanks. The cheesehouse and cellar were later used for grain and chaff storage.

The building survived the floods of 1934 and the disastrous bushfires of 1939. More bushfires in 1944 destroyed the grain and chaff storage buildings. The farm was later sub-divided into what is now known as the Bridle estate

The last of the Bridle family left Airlie Bank in 1959 and although occupied for a number of years, it gradually fell into disrepair and became a target for vandals. Airlie Bank was later given to the then Shire of Morwell by the Bridle family

Airlie Bank Homestead has been restored under the guidance of the late Max Williamson and Advance Morwell and was re-opened to the public in 2000. From July 2010 Airlie Bank Gallery has hosted a magnificent display of dolls from every corner of the world under the name of “Bev’s Wonderworld of Dolls”. This display is now closed & relocated.

Local Tourism of Morwell

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 19:31:27 GMT

Morwell has a large variety accommodation, suiting all tastes and budgets, and is an ideal base from which to explore the Latrobe Region.

Only a short drive away are the picturesque hills of the green Strzelecki Ranges which beckon visitors to the Morwell National Park, there is the historic mining village of Walhalla, the unique Tarra Bulga National Park, numerous beaches and several snow resorts among many other local attractions.

Our sporting facilities are excellent, catering for every need, ranging from a golf course, a golf driving range, tennis courts, bowling greens, tenpin bowling, squash and many other popular sporting activities. We also have an eight screen cinema complex and leisure centre complex along with a range of cultural and social clubs.

Local tourism icons include Morwell’s Centenary Rose Garden, Latrobe Regional Gallery, Gippsland Immigration Park and Powerworks.

The Morwell Rose Garden

Forming the western entrance to the Morwell Business District is the spectacular Morwell Centenary Rose Garden of international significance.

The garden which proudly showcases about 3000 roses in manicured beds, is a community project undertaken by the "Friends of the Rose Garden", volunteers and sponsors with the generous support of Latrobe City Council.

In 2009 this garden was presented with an Award of Garden Excellence by the World Federation of Rose Societies.

This Rose Garden is an outstanding example of what a community can achieve with dedication and hard work. A local councillor’s idea in 1991 was sold to the Council of the day. A site was selected, public meeting called and a Steering Committee formed. This committee has been totally responsible for the project comprising the design, fund raising, construction and on-going maintenance of the garden which was officially opened in November 1992.

The Morwell Chamber of Commerce strongly supported the Rose Garden project, providing the Committee with funds to assist in the initiation of the project, with Advance Morwell providing ongoing support in recent years, through project funding.

Crinigan Bushland Reserve

The 100 acre reserve was the last patch of native bush in Morwell. While it had been neglected, Peter Ryan, a nearby resident, saw the potential of this site and gathered together a committee of 10 like-minded people. This committee gained local council funding to have the area cleaned and regenerated. The Reserve is now fenced, roads made and walking tracks which follow contours constructed. In addition, a shelter, tables and chairs and breeding boxes have been provided. All this has been achieved as a result of help from various local groups, community volunteers and service organisations.

All schools in the area are Friends of the Reserve. Little Athletics, Traralgon Harriers, local football and soccer clubs all use it for training. It is also popular with horse riders. The Reserve is now home for over 170 different plants and approximately 30 native orchids. Native birds, and animals such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats are starting to return. Amenities for visitors include an information booth and picnic shelter. The committee continues to be aided by a large team of enthusiastic volunteers, and it has the continuing support of Council, sponsors such as the Lions Club of Morwell, the Rotary Club of Morwell, Advance Morwell, and the community.

Bills Horse Trough

Prior to the widespread use of motor vehicles, horses were widely used for farming, drawing heavy vehicles, and for personal transport. In hot weather they often became distressed when drinking water was not available. The animal loving Bills family sought to lessen horses’ distress by providing drinking troughs in various towns throughout Victoria and well beyond.In Morwell a trough was placed in Hazelwood Road opposite the then Town Hall, now the Regional Art Gallery. The Morwell trough was special as it included an attached small bowl for dogs to drink from.

In later years the trough was removed and taken to the Pony Club premises, where it fell into disrepair. Recognising its historical importance, the Morwell Historical Society decided to return the trough and dog bowl to their original position. Latrobe City Council and the Rotary Club of Morwell were responsible for repair and enhancement of the trough, before it was returned close to its original position in Hazelwood Road on June 7, 2010.

Gippsland Immigration Park

Morwell and the wider Latrobe City attracted many overseas migrants in the aftermath of the second world war, who made Gippsland their home. Recognising their contribution to the region, The Immigration Wall of Recognition was established to record the names and achievements of those migrants who came to Gippsland and helped build our community. It was officially opened in March 2007.

A Brief History of Morwell

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 19:37:04 GMT

It was the Government’s approved the construction of a railway line from Melbourne to Sale in 1873 that led to the development of the township of Morwell, with the first public sale of land taking place in January 1879 prior to the opening of the railway line in April of that year. At this time there were around ten traders operating in the town, with a brickworks, pottery, butter factory, schools and cordial factory established in the following twenty years.

The Shire of Morwell was formed in 1892. Following fires in the commercial area in both 1890 and 1912, the Morwell Waterworks Trust was formed and in December 1913 a town water supply from Billy's Creek was connected.

Morwell’s development was further fostered following the establishment of the Yallourn open cut mine and power station in the 1920s and the opening of the Maryvale Paper Mill in 1937, all of which provided Morwell with opportunities for employment and trade.

The State Electricity Commission of Victoria (SECV) commenced work on the Morwell power station and briquette works in 1949 with production at the plant starting in 1956, which provided briquettes for domestic and industrial use, including in the production of Town Gas for Melbourne at an adjacent gasworks built by the by the Gas and Fuel Corporation of Victoria.

Further development by the SECV at Hazelwood strengthened Morwell’s economy, which underwent subsequent retraction in the 1980’s and 1990’s with subsequent electricity industry restructuring and privatisation.

Competitive Advantages

Morwell has a number of competitive advantages that include affordable housing, well, developed infrastructure, a broad range of business activities and highly skilled workforce. It has a vast array of social, sporting, cultural and educational facilities, which when combined with an affordable and high quality lifestyle, make Morwell not only a great place for business, but a great place to live.

Morwell is located in the centre of the Latrobe City, the key industrial and commercial area of Gippsland in Eastern Victoria, and has an extensive and well-established range of services and infrastructure. Morwell’s central locality (which provides the best location for servicing the Latrobe Region) and transport connections, such as Latrobe Regional Airport and the Gippsland Rail Corridor, make Morwell the ideal location for decentralised industry or commercial activities.

Morwell is well serviced by retail businesses both in central Morwell and at Mid Valley. It has an eight theatre cinema complex, excellent swimming and leisure centre and high level soccer, football and cricket facilities.

Advance Morwell Annual Report: 2022/2023

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:43:05 GMT

Overview

2022 marked the 25th year of operation of Advance Morwell and tonight we recognise another year of serving the Morwell and Latrobe City community.

This year has been a challenging one for Advance Morwell. The unexpected loss of our long serving and highly respected Chair, John Guy OAM, was keenly felt by the Committee.

John’s contribution to Advance Morwell was significant and like all his other commitments, demonstrated his passion for the town, its people and organisations, along with his willingness to serve.

Despite many health issues over the years, John continued in the role of Chair representing and guiding Advance Morwell as we responded to a changing range of issues.

It is largely due to John’s sound stewardship that Advance Morwell has been able to continue to represent the interests of our traders and townspeople.

Committee

The Advance Morwell Committee meets monthly at the Morwell Bowling Club and we acknowledge the management and staff of the for their generosity in providing a venue for our meetings.

Business Sector

Membership

ANZAC Day

We again participated in Anzac Day, laying a wreath in remembrance of those Morwell Residents who have served their country in times of conflict.

Representation

Howard Williams is Advance Morwell’s representative on the Energy Australia Yallourn Environmental review Commitee, and we thank Howard for this work.

Advance Morwell was also represented on the International Rose Festival Committee.

We have continued to maintain a close relationship with Energy Australia through David Burt to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for closure, new developments, and rehabilitation.

Mine Rehabilitation

Latrobe Valley Authority, Transition Plan

Committee for Gippsland

Gippsland Rail Revival

It has been pleasing to see the continued progress of the Regional Rail Revival works.

The location of the new Morwell platform is a direct result of lobbying undertaken by Advance Morwell in the early planning stages of this project.

We continue to lobby for the completion of remedial works and reinstatement of town assets following construction.

Car Parking

For over five years, Advance Morwell been actively lobbying for improved car parking in Morwell.

Over the past 12 months it has been pleasing to see the delivery of new car parking at Morwell Train Station, and in particular, on the site of the former Ampol petrol station and garage.

We continue to work with Latrobe City on enhancing parking in the Morwell CBD

Community Support

Relocation of Musical Instruments

Christmas Promotion

Member event

Website and Branding

As part of a broader renewal plan, the Committee agreed to complete a branding refresh and update of the Advance Morwell website. Work on these activities commenced in July 2023.

Morwell Christmas: 2023

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 18:51:53 GMT

Supported by Latrobe City’s Christmas Festivity Grant, Advance Morwell has been spreading some Christmas spirit in the Morwell CBD.

On Friday 15th December the Morwell Citizens Band brightened the afternoon, with Christmas music in Commercial Road outside of Manny’s Market.

On Saturday 16th the music continued with free face painting outside of Subway and Santa was roving Commercial Road.

Facebook posts encouraged Morwell shoppers to come along and join in the Christmas spirit and support their local traders.

Supported by Latrobe City’s Christmas Festivity Grant, Advance Morwell partnered with several Morwell cafes to share the Christmas Spirit!

Morwell shoppers were encouraged to get up early, get your coffee and get set to shop at their local traders! With 50 customers at each café receiving a free regular coffee.

Advance Morwell thanks participating café’s Peachy Coffee House, Claudias Café, and Café Qu Bah for their support in this Christmas promotion.

Accolade for Aussie Broadband

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 18:13:27 GMT

Local success story Aussie Broadband was awarded the prestigious ‘Hall of Fame’ award at Friday night’s Gippsland Business Awards.

According to Advance Morwell Acting Chair Graeme Sennett, the local business community was thrilled to learn that Aussie Broadband has been recognised this way.

“Aussie Broadband’s success is the result of many years of innovation, courage and determination.” Said Mr Sennett.

“Its success is phenomenal and a great credit to Phil Britt and the whole team, who have taken Aussie Broadband from a small regional internet provider to the fifth largest telco in Australia and also being listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.” He added.

Previously winner of the 2017 Gippsland Business Awards, Business of the Year award, Aussie Broadband was recognised for its growth, contribution to the community, innovative operations, and the support it provides to their employees.

“To see a local organisation be so successful provides a great role model for small business operators.” Said Mr Sennett.

“More importantly, for those in Morwell, it creates a great sense of pride to see a business that was started by a local, grow and prosper, while still maintaining its headquarters in the town.”

“With so many Gippsland residents and business operators having supported Aussie Broadband over the years, it is very rewarding to see them recognised this way.” Said Mr Sennett.

Further Information

For further information contact Graeme Sennett, telephone 0417 509 149

Media Release re: NAB bank branch closure

Community — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 09:15:28 GMT

The Morwell CBD has been robbed of its last bank branch, with the National Australia Bank (NAB) recently announcing the closure of its Princes Drive branch. According to Advance Morwell Vice-Chair, Graeme Sennett, the Morwell community is devastated by this latest banking blow.

“Over recent years Morwell residents have slowly seen the closure of all their CBD bank branches, significantly impacting both our business community and those who rely on in-person banking services.” He said. Having been driven to move banks multiple times over recent years, Morwell residents and business people are now facing a real challenge as their last CBD bank branch closes its doors. “Despite the banks’ claims that services are available on-line and that use of over-the-counter services is diminishing, their closure poses a significant threat to Morwell’s economic stability and well-being.” Said Mr Sennett. "Over the years, our local bank branches have provided essential financial services to residents and businesses and their presence has been an integral part of our community, providing economic support, banking and employment opportunities." He added.

According to Advance Morwell, the closure of the CBD banks has disproportionately affected Morwell’s elderly and vulnerable community members who face real difficulties accessing banking services without a local physical branch. Mr Sennett said, “The impact on local businesses, who rely on these banks for day-to-day financial transactions is significant. Morwell traders now incur additional costs, security risks and time wastage as they must travel to Traralgon or Moe to do their banking.” “While we are fortunate to still have a Commonwealth Bank Branch at MidValley, it is difficult to access and requires traders to carry their cash through the shopping centre and car-park; a real safety risk” He added.

As our big banks close branches and chase profits, they are ignoring their social and community obligations, and in their wake, leave towns suffering, with empty shops, job losses and future economic development undermined. Advance Morwell has called on the NAB to reconsider their decision and explore alternative solutions to maintain a presence in our town.

Collaborative efforts are needed to preserve the economic stability of Australia’s small towns and ensure access to essential banking services for residents and businesses everywhere. “It’s time that all levels of government work together to advocate for the retention of these banking services or to seek new and creative ways to address this critical issue.

For further information contact Graeme Sennett.

Christmas in Morwell - 2022

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 18:48:16 GMT

Supported by Latrobe City’s Christmas Festivity Grant, Advance Morwell has partnered with a number of Morwell cafes to share the Christmas Spirit!

From Friday 16th December, 50 customers at each café will receive a free regular coffee and get to enjoy some entertainment provided by local musicians James and Shanyn.

Advance Morwell thanks participating café’s Peckish Café, 38Forty Café, Claudias Café, Alfresh2go, Café Qu Bah and The Daily Café & Foodstore for their support in this Christmas promotion.

A big thanks also to James and Shanyn for their great music and to Latrobe City for providing the Christmas Festivity Grant.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and encourage everyone to shop local in 2023.

Inquiry into the closure of the Hazelwood and Yallourn Power Stations

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 20:08:56 GMT

Advance Morwell commends the Victorian Parliament’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee for establishing this important Inquiry into the closure of the Hazelwood and Yallourn Power Stations.

The Latrobe Valley in south-east Victoria has a long and proud history of brown coal mining and power generation. Its abundant brown coal resource has powered the region and Victoria for the best part of the last century, providing affordable and reliable electricity and underpinning the state’s economic growth and prosperity.

Increasing renewable energy generation and the urgent need to meet national and international emissions reduction targets, coupled with the ageing nature of the Latrobe Valley’s brown coal-fired power generators will ultimately see the retirement of these assets in the years ahead.

The closure of the Hazelwood Brown Coal Mine and Power Station in March 2017 and the projected closures of EnergyAustralia’s Yallourn and AGL’s Loy Yang assets in 2028 and 2048 respectively present one of the most significant challenges to the Latrobe Valley in its history.

The transition to a carbon-constrained economy will have undeniable impacts to the local economy and community. The safe, secure and well-paying jobs that the sector has provided to generations of

Latrobe Valley families are slowly fading.

There is an urgent need to plan for this transition to ensure that the Latrobe Valley, which has contributed so much to the state’s economic growth, continues to prosper in the decades ahead.

Read the release in full below.

Parliamentary Inquiry into Closure of Hazelwood and Yallourn Power Stations - Advance Morwell Submission.pdf

Advance Morwell Annual Report: 2019

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 18:39:34 GMT

Overview

Thank you for your attendance.

It is always a challenge to get members to attend AGM's. Last year we tried a breakfast meeting at the new Technical School and this year we have tried to encourage members to attend by providing drinks and nibbles – I think we just have to accept that people generally are not interested in attending Annual meetings.

Our meeting tonight marks the 21st year of operation of Advance Morwell and another year of serving the Morwell and Latrobe city community.

Your committee have continued to meet each month and during the year have changed our meeting venue from the Rose Garden to the Morwell Bowling Cub due to the unavailability of the Rose Garden Meeting Room. We have also changed the date of our meetings from the first Tuesday of the month to the second Tuesday to suit the availability of committee members.

We wish to acknowledge the management and staff of the Morwell Bowling Club for their generosity in providing a venue for our meetings.

I would like to recognize the Committee Members who have served the organisation over the past year -Graeme Sennett Vice President and Minute Secretary; Shashi Bhatti, our Treasurer: Keith Brownbill, Correspondence Secretary; Howard Williams. Membership: Lauren Marks and Matilda Lappin, Business Sector; Bev Lorraine, David McInnes, Jenny Rutherford,

General Meeting of Members

A general Meeting of members was held on Tuesday 25th June – with Guest Karen Cain, CEO Latrobe Valley Authority, who reported on the past and present work of the authority.

Business Sector

Following the departure of Lynn Keeley to Tasmania, Lauren Marks has taken over the role of the coordinator of the Traders Group, organizing and supporting promotions in the Morwell CBD and I thank Lauren for her efforts in promoting businesses and making a significant contribution to the work of Advance Morwell and the Business Community. This role has recently been taken over by Matilda Lappin and we also thank Matilda for her efforts in a very difficult retail climate.

Committee

Again, this year I record the challenge of obtaining suitable Committee Members who are willing to assume Executive Roles. This situation has not changed, and we could still do with some new committee members those with the attributes enabling them to undertake Office Bearers roles of Chairman and Secretary. If this trend continues and we do not have people coming forward to accept the responsibility of running the organisation, then the future of our Advance Morwell becomes uncertain which could result in us going into recess.

Representation

I have continued to represent Advance Morwell on the Future Morwell Steering Committee (Morwell Project) which was formed after the Mine Fire to deliver on a plan for the Development of the Morwell CBD. I am pleased to report that the majority of the under road work has been completed, the parklets have been constructed and work has now stopped for the pre-Christmas period. Additional funding has been received from the State Government and work has commenced on the project which will see the implementation of the plan for Commercial Road from Hazelwood Road to Tarwin Street, with the restoration of the Pop-up Park in Tarwin Street while retaining two-way traffic.

I have also represented Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee which was formed at the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire and has continued its activities over the past 4 - l /2 years.

Over this time, we have worked with several agencies to produce an Emergency Management Plan for Morwell. I am again disappointed to say that we still have not achieved this objective and if a major incident occurred now, we would be no better off that we were when the Mine Fire occurred.

Howard Williams has accepted the role of representing Advance Morwell on the Yallourn Mine Environment Group, and we thank Howard for accepting this position and his work maintaining our membership records.

Keith Brownbill was our representative on the Rose Garden Celebration Committee.

We have continued to lobby both the Latrobe City Council and the State and Federal Governments on issues affecting Morwell, Latrobe City and Gippsland.

We have met with our Morwell Council representatives and have had continued contact with Our Morwell Councilors and Independent Member for Morwell Russell Northe.

We have continued to maintain a close relationship with ENGIE through Lauren Carey to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for rehabilitation and fire protection.

Mine Rehabilitation

We continue our interest and involvement in the Management of Hazelwood Rehabilitation Works. Advance Morwell will continue to monitor and be involved in discussions on the Mine rehabilitation as it progresses.

Of interest and concern is the work being undertaken to minimize the risk of any further fire incidents in the mine.

Gippsland Rail Project Implementation

We have continued our interest in the Gippsland Rail Project as it relates to improvements at the Morwell Station and travel times between the Latrobe Valley and Melbourne.

We have been also had a continuing involvement with the State Government in lobbying the Public Transport Melissa Horne, to achieve the additional car parking at the Morwell Train Station on the site of the former petrol station and garage.

We believe this is a strategic site and one which provides easy access to the station which is safe, and we have urged the minister to develop this site.

We have also reviewed and provided input into the proposed location of Morwell’s second rail platform as initial plans impacted parking and Legacy Place, while providing a suboptimal arrival experience for rail patrons. We have argued for an offset platform arrangement with visually appealing access from Legacy Place, with additional access from the Bus Terminal to facilitate intermodal transfers.

Latrobe convention Centre Business Case and Concept

Council would now seek funding for the renovation of Kernot Hall

Traralgon Bypass

We continue to work with the Committee for Gippsland to achieve the Traralgon Bypass which is essential for the future of the transport industry in Gippsland.

Legacy Place Power Supply

Unfortunately, the redevelopment of Legacy Place and the provision of a power supply on site has been delayed due to the planned construction of a second platform at the Morwell Train Station. The plan for Legacy Place is dependent of the final location of the platform.

Latrobe City Forum

You will remember that last year I reported that my efforts over several years to re-establish meetings between the Latrobe City Council and town groups.

It was suggested by Council that a better way to achieve this would be through the Latrobe Valley Authority. The CEO undertook to commence the process which would bring the three major towns groups together with the LCBTA assisted by an officer from LVA.

Again, I report that the progress and assistance from the LA Authority has been extremely disappointing.

Membership

We value all our longstanding members and those who have joined more recently in supporting us to advocate for Morwell & Latrobe City.

Sponsorship

We have again provided sponsorship to the Gippsland Antiques and Collectables Fair held at Kernot Hall and the Rose Garden Celebration. This year we also provided financial assistance for Morwell Students to attend the Boolarra Tom Curtain Speak up Tour on February 16th”

Purchases

To better represent the association, we purchased external display banners and a marquee for use at events run by or sponsored by Advance Morwell.

ANZAC Day

We again laid a wreath on Anzac Day to remember all Morwell Residents who have served their country in times of conflict.

I would like to thank you for your attendance tonight.

Morwell Station Carpark Works Derailed?

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 02:44:25 GMT

Advance Morwell has called on the State Government to come clean on the Morwell Railway Station carpark.

According to John Guy, Advance Morwell Chair, the Morwell community is frustrated and disappointed at the lack of action to deliver additional carparks at the congested Morwell Railway Station.

“Despite writing to, and seeking answers from, the Minister for Transport, the Minister for Public Infrastructure, local members Harriet Shing and Russell Northe, the only response we have received to date has been from The Member for Morwell, Russell Northe.” Said Mr Guy.

“We are told the State Government supports our community, but all we hear are hollow promises.” He added.

Advance Morwell wrote to the Minister for Transport expressing their concern about the delay in the delivering the additional car parking which was promised by the Andrews Government, over a year ago, in February 2018.

In addition to their frustration that car park extension works are yet to commence, Advance Morwell is concerned about commentary that the car park expansion location is apparently ‘contaminated’ and will not be developed.

“We find this incredibly hard to believe, as there are many former petrol station sites around Australia that have been successfully rehabilitated and repurposed.” said Mr. Guy.

Advance Morwell believes that the former petrol station site is by far the best strategic location available to extend the railway station car park and should be developed as a matter of urgency.

“It is bad enough that Gippsland V/Line customers have been continually inconvenienced with bus replacements over the past year, without having to suffer hollow promises about parking enhancements while struggling to get a car park when travelling on V/Line.” Concluded Mr Guy.

Provision of Additional Parking at the Morwell Train Station

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 02:00:10 GMT

I write on behalf of Advance Morwell Inc. (a community and business organization which aims to advance Morwell and the wider Latrobe City).

We wish to raise issue regarding the delay in the provision of additional Car Parking which was first promised in February 2018 and has not yet been delivered. Our concerns have further increased with anecdotal reports that the chosen site (a former petrol station site immediately adjacent to the Rail Station carpark) is contaminated and has been removed from the site list.

We find this totally unacceptable. As you are well aware, many former petrol station sites across Victoria have been successfully rehabilitated and reused for different purposes. This location is surely the best strategic site available to meet the increasing demands of railway patron parking needs.

We request an up to date position with respect to this site and if so, the reasons why it has been discounted as the site for additional parking at the Morwell Train Station.

Additionally, if this site is not to be used as parking, Advance Morwell wishes to be advised as to the beautification plans for the site and the timeline for the completion of these works.

Advance Morwell finds it difficult to believe the Government’s rhetoric regarding supporting our community, when it is not delivering key projects, such as the completion of this carpark, which is critical to support our commuter workforce.

Yours sincerely,

John Guy OAM.

CC: Minister for Public Transport: The Hon Melissa Horne

Mr. Russell Northe MLA Member for Morwell.

Ms. Harriet Shing, MLC Member for Eastern Victoria

Annual Report 2018

Community — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 11:15:28 GMT

Overview

Thank you for your attendance here this morning. It is always a challenge to get members to attend AGM's and it was suggested that we try a breakfast meeting which may be more convenient for members especially those of our business group.

We meet today having achieved 20 years as an organisation committed to working in the interests of the Morwell community and how well we have achieved our objective is for you and others in our community to judge.

It is appropriate that as we meet this morning that we remember the passing of Life Member Max Williamson.

Max's significant contributions to this organisation over many years should never be forgotten.

Would you please stand as we observe I minutes silence in memory of Max Williamson?

THANK YOU:

Your committee have continued to meet on the first Tuesday of the month at the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Meeting room in Maryvale Crescent to pursue all issues of interest to Morwell and the wider Latrobe Valley.

I would like to recognize the Committee Members who have served the organisation over the past year - Shashi Bhatti, Keith Brownbill, John Jacovou, Lynn Keeley, Bev Lorraine, Lauren Marks, David McInnes, Jenny Rutherford, Graeme Sennett and Howard Williams.

The Advance Morwell Traders Group has also met monthly, organizing and supporting promotions in the Morwell CBD and I thank Lynn Keeley and Lauren Marks for their efforts in convening these meetings and for making a significant contribution to the work of Advance Morwell and the Business Community.

I reported last year on the challenge of obtaining suitable Committee Members who are willing to assume Executive Roles. Again, this year we could really do with some new committee members those with the attributes enabling them to undertake Office Bearers roles of Chairman and Secretary. If this trend continues and we do not have people coming forward to accept the responsibility of running the organisation, then the future of our Advance Morwell becomes uncertain which could result in us going into recess.

This would be I believe a disaster for Morwell especially the business community.

I have continued to represent Advance Morwell on the Future Morwell Steering Committee which was formed after the Mine Fire to deliver on a plan for the Development of the Morwell CBD. I am pleased to report that additional funding has been received from the State Government and work has commenced on the project which will see the implementation of the plan for Commercial Road from Hazelwood Road to Tarwin Street with the restoration of the POP-UP Park in Tarwin Street and the retention of two-way traffic.

I have also represented Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee which was formed at the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire and has continued its activities over the past 4 - l /2 years.

Over this time, we have worked with several agencies to produce an Emergency Management Plan for Morwell. I am disappointed to say that we still have not achieved this objective and if a major incident occurred now, we would be no better off that we were when the Mine Fire occurred.

Max Williamson during his service with Advance Morwell represented us on the Yallourn Mine Environment Group. We are looking for a member of Advance Morwell who might like to take up this position. If you are interested, please let me know.

The Advance Morwell Committee has continued to lobby on behalf of the Morwell community.

We have met with our Morwell Council representatives and have had continued contact with Harriet Shing Member for Eastern Victoria in the Legislative Assembly and Lower House Member for Morwell Russell Northe, now independent Member for Morwell.

We have continued to maintain a close relationship with ENGIE through Lauren Carey to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for rehabilitation and fire protection.

Mine Rehabilitation

As reported at our last AGM Advance Morwell has continued to take an active interest in Management of Hazelwood Rehabilitation Works and while rehabilitation is underway, greater clarity is still required as to what activities are being undertaken and how this aligns with statutory obligations.

Advance Morwell will continue to monitor and be involved in discussions on the Mine rehabilitation as it progresses.

Of interest and concern is the work being undertaken to minimize the risk of any further fire incidents in the mine.

Gippsland Rail Project Implementation

We have continued our interest in the Gippsland Rail Project as it relates to improvements at the Morwell Station and travel times between the Latrobe Valley and Melbourne.

We have been frustrated in our efforts to gain information on the provision of additional parking at the Morwell Station. Promises made by the current Government almost twelve months ago have failed to produce any activity and enquiries to the local upper house members have been ignored.

Traralgon Bypass

As reported last year the Committee unanimously supported the development of the Traralgon bypass, recognising the economic and connectivity benefits it will deliver to the greater Gippsland area. The retention of the proposed Northern route is supported in order to retain future accessibility to the coal resource.

Again, there has been little or no progress on this important initiative.

Legacy Place Power Supply

We are now confident that as part of the Commercial Road Development a Power Supply will be available at Legacy Place.

Advance Morwell Traders

The Morwell Traders led by Lynn Keeley and Lauren Marks have continued to meet during the year although I was disappointed to read that they have now decided to suspend their meeting in favor of communication by e mail. It is vital for the continued health and prosperity of the CBD business community that this group remain active in their promotion of business activity in our town. Work is currently underway for the 'Spirit of Christmas" event and Friday 30th of November.

Business Breakfast

With support from the Victorian Small Business Commissioner we hosted an informative Business breakfast at Morwell Bowling Club in April with 80 attendees there was also a pop up information session during the morning at Legacy Place and significant support to redevelop our website.

Latrobe City Forum:

You should be aware of my efforts over several years to re-establish meetings between the Latrobe City Council and town groups and recently (JULY) I had a meeting with the Mayor and CEO to discuss this matter.

The outcome was that they suggested that a better pathway would be through the Latrobe Valley Authority. The CEO undertook to commence the process which would bring the three major towns groups together with the LCBTA assisted by an officer from LVA. To date the progress has been extremely disappointing.

LCBTA - together with Advance Morwell and The Traralgon Chamber held a "Meet the Candidates" at the Morwell Bowling Club

With John Mitchell as MC all nine candidates attended and answered questions from those in attendance. It was overall a successful event.

We have continued to monitor and seek information of the following: Waste to Energy Project APM Maryvale:

The LVA and LCC transition activities.

Latrobe Convention Centre Business Case and Concept.

Membership; Howard Williams.

Advance Morwell transitioned its membership data base to a web-based Membership Management System in July 2014 and has a total of 187 contacts. Early problems with out of date data, have now been resolved and usually the system works well.

Our financial membership has declined slightly over the past three years due, in part, to the rapid changes and overall decline in retailers; ageing and retirement of some initial members and possibly the transition to electronic communications.

While Advanced Morwell has adopted modern technology and communicates far more effectively with an updated webpage, email and social media - a Facebook page (630 likes) and recently added a Twitter account; this may not suit those who haven't embraced these technologies.

We continue to use posted mail for invoicing those that don't access email.

Currently we have 115 members, (Corporate 15, Business 57 and Community 43).

We value all our longstanding members and those who have joined more recently in supporting us to advocate for Morwell & Latrobe City. It appears to be a feature of the current times that businesses and individuals change email addresses with changes of Internet Service Providers and some email systems have security firewalls designed to filter spam that can inadvertently block our emails. We do get some system feedback and can follow up by phone however maintaining current contacts is an ongoing issue.

The fact that 37 members are still to renew for 2018/19 4 months after our membership year opened indicates that there is an issue in either willingness to respond or maybe emails simply 'slip down the screen' while a paper invoice only falls to the bottom of the pile. Slow responses did occur pre internet and certainly far less volunteer time is used in chasing unpaid memberships. The Advance Morwell Traders subcommittee has included some ‘value add’ to our business and corporate membership via promoting the Latrobe City Gift Card and discounts on Latrobe Valley Express feature advertising all of which more than compensate for the business membership fee.

Sponsorship

This year we have provided $1,000 sponsorship for the Gippsland Antique and Collectables Fair, $1,000 to the Morwell Historical Society towards the Society’s Building Re-roofing project, $1,000 to the Get Cheffed event.

I would like to thank you for your attendance this morning and thank you for the contribution you make to the Morwell community.

John V Guy OAM JP

Recognition for Regional & Rural Women Exhibition

Community — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:19:13 GMT

RECOGNITION FOR REGIONAL AND RURAL WOMEN - Her Place Women’s Museum Australia Exhibition - Morwell Library 1–20 October. Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region will open the exhibition on Thursday 4 October 4pm.

#onedayourplinthwillcome, the campaign launched in August by Kathy Lette and Annabel Crabb for more statues to commemorate history’s ‘badass women’, should look first to Australia’s regions, says Mary Stuart, who chairs Her Place Women’s Museum Australia.

Ten women are featured including : Sallie Jones, co-founder of milk brand Gippsland Jersey; Aunty Bess Yarram and Alma Thorpe, Aboriginal leaders with long connections to Morwell. For each of the profiled women, there is a short biography, video portrait and artefacts.

Seven of the women featured in the exhibition have been inducted onto the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.

Welcome The Bee & The Spider

Community — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 02:23:58 GMT

Welcome to the Latrobe City Gift Card program The Bee & The Spider in George St Morwell, a gorgeous craft store, with loads of workshops for all ages & skills, complete with play area for the little ones!

Goodbye Flowers welcome Fashion in the Valley

Community — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 02:18:56 GMT

The transition has happened! Over the past months Lynn has transformed Flowers in the Valley from a Florist shop into Fashion in the Valley, the only Ladies Fashion Boutique in Morwell CBD.

There is no shortage of choice with many fashion labels and fittings from size 8 – 24, you are sure to be impressed by the vast range including, Caroline Morgan, Que Que, RTM, Clarity, Purity Lace, So in Style, Whispers Wishstone, Threadz & more; there’s certainly something for everyone.

Fashion in the Valley is also Morwell’s exclusive stockist of Erstwilder Fashion Jewellery & Samantha Abbott glass earrings, they also carry a range of handbags, scarves and more.

Fashion in the Valley, 186 Commercial Road Morwell (at Manny’s Market Entrance). Phone 5134 5667

A proud member of Advance Morwell that accept and promote the Latrobe City Gift Card.

Vale Max Williamson

Community — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 11:07:30 GMT

The Committee and members of Advance Morwell Inc. are saddened by the passing of Life Member Max Williamson. His significant contributions to the Morwell and Latrobe City community leave a legacy of his tenacity and personal commitment to the improvement of life for others. Max joined the Committee of Advance Morwell soon after the organisation was established in 1997 and remained on the committee until late 2017 when he did not seek re-election to the Committee. Max was an ideas man and also had the ability to plan, research and deliver projects to enhance the fabric of the Morwell and Latrobe City population. He had a deep involvement in the Planning and establishment of the Sir Stanley Savige memorial in what is now well known as Legacy Place in Commercial Road Morwell.

Max worked with the Council and the Centenary Rose Garden Committee to establish signage in the Rose Garden sponsored by a grant from Engie.

This signage followed on from Max’s prior work developing the Welcome to Morwell signs that now grace Morwell’s main town entrances along with a series of decorative banners that were erected around the town.

In more recent times, Max demonstrated his adaptability and grasp of contemporary culture when he organised the painting of a 'street art' decorative mural on the wall of Valley Trophy Centre.

As well as his service to Advance Morwell, Max Williamson has been an active member of the Morwell and Latrobe City Community. His membership of Morwell Jaycees, the Morwell Lions Club and Morwell Probus have led to his participation a great many projects that have over the years improved the lives of many in our community and left a lasting legacy to his ability to get things done.Max undertook many roles for Advance Morwell, representing the organisation in many forums and liaising with a range of people and bodies as a voice for and to ensure many civic programs were delivered effectively.

He represented Advance Morwell for over 14 years on the Energy Australia “Energy Environment Review Committee” (ERC) and every year ensured additional Christmas decorations were installed, along with supporting all Advance Morwell Trader’s events to maximise the return on any expenditure of member’s funds. His work in leading the restoration and subsequent ongoing maintenance and management of Airlie Bank House, including supporting tenants and promoting the facility, has ensured that this significant piece of Morwell history has been retained for the benefit of future generations.

His involvement in the Committee for the Town Common over many years saw this asset continue to develop and evolve into the town’s premier attraction for children of all abilities.

Max Williamson was made a life Member of Advance Morwell last year and while he may be physically lost to our community his memory will live on through the projects he was involved in over years of active service to this community.

Social Media Tips

Community — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 08:25:57 GMT

Our recent Business Breakfast, guest speaker Megan Vuillermin has provided these notes from her address regarding utilizing Social Media:

The auto pilot programs that can be used to schedule social media posts etc I talked about this morning are: SmarterQueue, RecurPost, Buffer, Plann, Later…there are heaps. I am sure you can google for more. Some of these mentioned will be for different social media platforms, some may charge a little bit too, many are free for a basic level. Businesses can also ‘schedule posts’ as well from within the social media platform.

For those that missed writing down some ideas for posting on social media, they can use the following as a guideline –

Day 1 - funny / inspirational post

Day 2 - share a win / celebrate something about your team or client

Day 3 - teach your client something useful about your service, product or something that will benefit them

Day 4 - share an old post that you re-spark interest or maybe share somebody else’s post

Day 5 - best chosen when you have data that shows when your client mostly makes a purchase , if you know…sell, sell, sell.

The final strategy worthy of re-iterating was creating a 12 month marketing plan and working out your unique selling points for each month. It gives you a guide to work with rather than a hit and miss approach.

I am always available for further clarification on anything I shared this morning, 0419 878 402 or my email (I am happy for it to be published).

Thank you for the opportunity this morning, I very much enjoyed meeting your community.

Kind regards,

Megan Vuillermin

0419 878 402

m_vuillermin@bigpond.com

New Introductory Membership Offer

Community — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 06:32:48 GMT

Any community member or business that takes out a new Membership from April 14, 2017 will get 3 months Free with their next renewal not due until July 2019. In addition one lucky business will win a year's free membership if they enter the business card draw at the Business Breakfast, at Morwell Bowling Club, 7.30am Wednesday April 18th.

Local Noodle Paradise Business get plaudits from customers

Community — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 06:20:59 GMT

Bill Zhou at Noodle Paradise is a proud Advance Morwell member who aside from conducting a great Noodle business in Commercial Rd Morwell he has given up his weekends to help care for the street rose tubs & support other Advance Morwell initiatives. Please support this business, these testemonials speak highly of his products.

Karen Lancaster: Can recommend it for fast delicious food and great prices.

Steven Mizzi: Nice food there

Audette Moore: Noodle Paradise is the best, it's actually amazing, love it!

Nanny Fee: Love their noodles

Kelly Phillips: Best noodles I’ve ever had.

Latrobe City GIFT CARD Welcomes its 100th Business

Community — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 05:25:12 GMT

With the Latrobe City Gift Cards now accepted at the Latrobe Regional Gallery, the Latrobe Visitors Information Centre, as well as the Churchill, Morwell and Moe/Newborough Leisure Centers, this marks over 100 businesses currently participating in the Latrobe City Gift Card initiative.

A joint venture between the Latrobe City Business Tourism Association (LCBTA), Traralgon Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Moe Trader’s Association and Advance Morwell to boost local business and support locals.

To celebrate reaching 100 participating businesses, the LCBTA gave away a $100 Latrobe City Gift Card, entries open Friday 6th April and close Wednesday 11th April 2018. To enter, find @LatrobeCityGiftCard on Facebook and follow the instructions.

A great gift, Latrobe City Gift Cards are available at:
Furniture, Beds and More - 32 George Street, MOE
Morwell Newspower Centre - 174/176 Commercial Road, MORWELL
Seymour Street Newsagency (Newspower) - 70 Seymour Street, TRARALGON

If you are a business member of Advance Morwell and would like more information about joining the Latrobe City Gift Card, go to our events list & select the item OR visit www.latrobecitygiftcard.com.au or email Sandy Hegarty at projects@lcbta.org.au.

Small Business Pop-Up Information Centre Morwell

Community — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 07:52:45 GMT

Get your business questions answered by local, state and federal government agencies in one location at Legacy Place, Morwell on Wednesday 18 April between 10am-1pm.

Hear from the Victorian Small Business Commission, Latrobe Valley Authority, Australian Securities and Investments Commission, Consumer Affairs Victoria, Fair Work Ombudsman, Rural Financial Counsellors, Regional Development Victoria, Sustainability Victoria, Australian Taxation Office, and many more.

If you have a new business idea, need help employing staff, want to reduce your energy bills, need advice on resolving a business dispute, or have any other business-related questions, this is the place to come.

No bookings required and it’s FREE!

Legacy Place is located on Commercial Road, opposite Tarwin Street.

There will even be a free sausage sizzle for those business owners and operators who attend!

This ‘Grow Your Business, Together’ event is brought to you by Advance Morwell Inc. and supported by the Victorian Small Business Commission and Latrobe Valley Authority.

Long Service Award: ANZ Morwell

Community — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 08:22:41 GMT

Congratulations to Advance Morwell member John Jacovou manager of the Morwell ANZ Bank branch on his 30 years of service with ANZ.

John began his career with the bank in Morwell 30 years ago and has served in a number of roles in a variety of locations before coming back to work in the Latrobe Valley with roles in the Traralgon & Morwell branches.

Photo of John receiving his award from Kate Wallis, District Manager Gippsland.

Awards for Helloworld Travel Morwell

Community — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 10:21:06 GMT

Advance Morwell congratulates Helloworld Travel Morwell owned by proud Advance Morwell member Irene O’Donnell on their awards. Three employees of the Helloworld Morwell travel franchise were recognised at the recent industry awards evening.

Kim Stoll was the 2017 State winner Consultant of the Year & Diamond Achievement Award
Antoinette Stokell was a finalist in the Helloworld Rookie of the Year and
Joy Martin received her Silver Achievement Award.

Helloworld Morwell is the most experienced travel agency in the Latrobe Valley with over 70 years combined travel experience in the team, over 85 countries visited, many multiple times, that provides service to its clients before, during and after their travel.

L to R Helloworld owner Irene O'Donnell with Joy Martin (Silver Award), Kim Stoll (State Consultant of the Year & Diamond Award) and Antoinette Stokell (Finalist Rookie of the Year).

Annual Report 2017

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 22:32:17 GMT

Overview

Tonight we celebrate 19 years of operation and service by Advance Morwell to the Morwell Community and it is again my pleasure to present a report of our activities over the past year.

The Committee have continued to meet on the first Tuesday of the month at the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Meeting room in Maryvale Crescent to pursue all issues of interest to Morwell and the wider Latrobe Valley.

The Advance Morwell Traders Group has also met monthly, organising and supporting promotions in the Morwell CBD.

The following report is prepared by John Guy on behalf of the Committee

I would like to recognize the Committee Members who have served the organization over the past year - David McInnes, Max Williamson, Graeme Sennett, Bev Lorraine, Shashi Bhatti, Keith Brownbill, John Guy, Lauren Marks, Lynn Keeley, Howard Williams and Ruth Codlin

We have grappled with the challenge of obtaining suitable Committee Members who are willing to assume Executive Roles and are indebted to Shashi Bhatti for taking on the role of Treasurer.

John Guy has continued to represent Advance Morwell on the Morwell Project Group which was formed after the Mine Fire to deliver on a plan for the development of Morwell. RMIT were selected as the consultants and plans were delivered which are now with council for implementation of Stage one which is centered on the area between Hazelwood Road and Tarwin Street.

John has also represented Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee which was formed at the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire and has continued its activities over the past 4 years.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE RECOVERY COMMITTEE include:

Recruitment of strong community leaders.
Recruitment of strong community leaders.
Worked with Alan Wilson to pressure insurance companies.
Provided equipment for clean up.
Distributed equipment to community groups.
Continued to work with emergency services about responding, communicating and plans for the future.
Worked with the Taskforce re: all issues especially clean up and future planning.
Participated in workshops with Red Cross etc: re how to communicate in an emergency (but wouldn’t say we solved those issues).
Supported family not in their house.
Provided a list of companies who could clean roof cavity.
Provided support for the door knocks and cleaning for HACC clients etc.
Provided support for the door knocks and cleaning for HACC clients etc.
Worked with LC staff to implement thank you events in 2014 and 2015.
Provided advice to Rob Gordon for article in LV Express.
Attended Hazelwood Mine tours to check on progress.
Supported all activities by government agencies where appropriate e.g. EPA consultations.
Attended workshop with EMV.

Max Williamson has continued to represent Advance Morwell on the Yallourn Mine Environment Group. Max has also worked closely with the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden Committee to design and erect signage throughout the garden. Signage which has contributed significantly to the garden’s appeal to visitors.

The Advance Morwell Committee has actively lobbied on behalf of the Morwell community. We have met with our Morwell Council representatives and had meetings with Harriet Sing Member for Eastern Victoria in the Legislative Assembly.

We have been invited to and attended announcements by the Premier at the Latrobe Valley Authority and have had the CEO Karen Cain attend our Committee meeting to update the Committee on the function of the Authority and the projects and initiatives being planned for the future.

We welcomed newly appointed Councilor Alan MacFarlane to our Committee meeting for an exchange of views regarding local Council activities.

We have continued to work constructively with the Moe and Traralgon Business groups through the Latrobe City Business Tourism Association, a relationship which we intend to further grow and strengthen over the coming year.

We have maintained a close relationship with ENGIE through Lauren Carey to ensure we have current knowledge of their plans for rehabilitation and fire protection.

Arlie Bank Homestead

After many years, Advance Morwell has relinquished our management of the Arlie Bank Homestead and handed the Building back to Council. The work of Max Williamson in dealing with the many issues that have occurred during our Management of this building is much appreciated, with Max to be commended for the long and at times demanding intrusions on his time.

We also recognize the work of Bev Lorraine who has been the occupier of Arlie Bank with her World of Dolls and exhibition which had attracted many visitors to Morwell and its other attractions. Bev went way beyond her role in maintaining the gardens and the overall appearance of Arlie Bank during her term.

General Meeting

A General meeting of Members was held on Wednesday 14th June at PowerWorks. Attendance was reasonable and Ian Nethercote provided an insightful presentation on the concept of high efficiency brown coal power plant and had a diversity of opinion on the future use of this within the region at this point of time.

Mine Rehabilitation

Advance Morwell has taken an active interest in Management of Hazelwood Rehabilitation Works and while rehabilitation is underway, greater clarity is still required as to what activities are being undertaken and how this aligns with statutory obligations. Advance Morwell will continue to monitor and be involved in discussions on the Mine rehabilitation as it progresses.

Gippsland Rail Project Implementation

Through our membership of Committee for Gippsland we have continually lobbied fro improvement works on the Gippsland rail line. We recognise the importance of these works being escalated for the next stage of rail improvements and have written to Harriett Shing and Mary Aldred at C4G requesting them to work towards the prioritized delivery of the Gippsland Line improvements.

Traralgon Bypass

The Committee unanimously supported the development of the Traralgon bypass, recognising the economic and connectivity benefits it will deliver to the greater Gippsland area. The retention of the proposed Northern route is supported in order to retain future accessibility the coal resource.

Legacy Place Musical Instruments

As a result of a donation from an unknown benefactor, Musical instruments were purchased and installed at Legacy Place. Some vandalism has occurred and repairs were required to the Drums.

Legacy Place Power Supply

David Mc Inness is working on plans to install a power supply. This will provide greater flexibility for future events to be held at Legacy Place.

Advance Morwell Traders

Advance Morwell has been fortunate to have a small group of Morwell Traders as a part of our Committee. The Morwell Traders meet separately and report to the Advance Morwell Committee on a regular basis. The Traders Group are currently busy organizing a special event for Christmas 2017.

Sponsorship

Advance Morwell again provided $1,000 sponsorship for the Gippsland Antique and Collectables Fair.

John V Guy OAM JP

P O Box 3057

MORWELL 384

Three Life Memberships Presented

Community — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 04:56:01 GMT

On behalf of the committee and members, it was with much gratitude and in recognition of their excellent service and significant period holding office bearing roles that that Vice-President, Graeme Sennett, awarded three of Advance Morwell’s greatest contributors Life membership.

John Guy, Keith Brownbill and Max Williamson the very deserving recipients, have all made a tremendous contribution to Advance Morwell over many, many years.

John has undertaken the role of Chair for almost 20 years, and has not only actively led the organisation, but has provided active community representation. He represented Advance Morwell on various committees including those responsible for Mine Fire Recovery, Future Morwell, The Morwell CBD Taskforce, Legacy Place Development, Kernot Hall redevelopment, amongst active participation in many other activities such as organising various events, and festivals and the development of a Morwell business guide.

As the organisation’s Secretary for the best part of 20 years, Keith Brownbill has been actively involved in the Town Common Redevelopment, Legacy Place development, organising various community events including the initial International Rose Garden festivals, preparing award winning Tidy Town submissions along with leading the installation and maintenance of rose planter boxes throughout the CBD, developing a tourism brochure for Morwell and initiating the creation of new town entrance signage.

Max Williamsons cautious guidance as Treasurer for almost 20 years ensured the organisations finances were in the best of hands. Max led Advance Morwell’s largest project, the Airlie Bank House restoration, and subsequently managed the maintenance of this facility for many years. He represented Advance Morwell on the Yallourn Environmental Review Committee, helped run various rose garden events, was actively involved in the Legacy Place Development and the erection of the Sir Stanley Savige memorial.

He played a key role on the Town Common Committee of management, provided input into the Hazelwood Mine Westfield development, organised the purchase and installation of addition Christmas decorations and provided active input onto the Northwest residential development. Most importantly he assisted in supporting the Latrobe Planning Scheme c62 Amendment challenging the Yallourn Mine overlay which ultimately enabled approval for the Morwell Golf Links residential development to be built.

Other activities included the design, construction and installation of new town entrance signage, and assisting Morwell Rose garden Committee with the development and installation of enhanced rose garden signage and tourist information along with the development and installation of the town’s decorative murals.

Spirit of Christmas 2017

Community — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 04:57:08 GMT

This event is proudly brought to you by Advance Morwell, we invite you to bring your friends and family to this free community event, filled with live music, carols by candle light thanks to Morwell Rotary Club.

Special guest "Santa" will be attending with free lollie bags for the kids, face painting, petting zoo, skate park demonstrations, live broad casts, hot food and drinks, switching on the Bank Australia Christmas Lights to help light up the spirit of Christmas in Morwell.

Please feel free to invite all your friends through Facebook, and help us to share this event.

This event was made possible by Advance Morwell, Bank Australia, Morwell Rotary Club, Morwell Lions.

V/Line gets more mobile!

Tue, 18 Apr 2017 03:20:11 GMT

Advance Morwell has applauded the announcement of carrier-approved in-train technology and increased mobile coverage to overcome ongoing cellular reception issues on V/Line trains.

According to Advance Morwell spokesperson, Graeme Sennett, the ability to effectively utilise mobile services while travelling by train is essential and these improvements will benefit many V/Line passengers, in particular commuters.

Mr Sennett, who is also a regular commuter said, “These improvements will provide rail patrons with the capacity to work effectively from when they board until they leave the train, adding many extra productive hours into their day”.

“With the adoption of flexible work arrangements, along with many workers using cloud based computing solutions and instant messaging tools such as skype, this level of connectivity is essential.” He added.

Advance Morwell has been lobbying for mobile signal improvements for some time and is a strong supporter of the recommendations of the Gippsland Rail Needs Study.

“In this pivotal time, as the Latrobe region transitions to a carbon free economy, Advance Morwell is calling on the government to upgrade our rail services to build Gippsland’s capacity to become a commuter hub.” Said Mr Sennett.

“This is a great step forward and I look forward to the improved connectivity that will be provided through these enhanced mobile services.” He added.

Further Information

For further information contact Graeme Sennett, telephone 0417 509 149.

Call for lights out at Morwell Power Station

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 03:06:54 GMT

Advance Morwell has opposed moves by a small section of the community to place a heritage listing on the Morwell Power Station and Briquette Factory.

According to Advance Morwell spokesperson, John Guy, the call to retain the facility, while well intended, is misplaced.

“The proponents need to think clearly about what they are suggesting and who will provide the significant finance for the transformation and continued maintenance of the facility.” Said Mr Guy.

“We also need to reflect on the history of the former Lurgi Plant and remember that it took over 30 years for that site to be rehabilitated – 30 years during which the site sat as a toxic, derelict eyesore, posing a risk to our community.” He added.

Advance Morwell is very conscious that the Morwell Briquette and Power Station contains asbestos and other contaminants which must be removed under strict supervision and would pose a considerable challenge for any future use of the site.

Mr Guy said “While we appreciate its role in our recent history and the many historical components on the site, Advance Morwell believes that these are best retained as an exhibit in an appropriate heritage centre or museum.”

“Retaining former industrial assets is a creative idea, but as is currently the case with the Dredger adjacent to Power Works, they deteriorate quickly over time and end up being not only a potential health and safety risk, but also become a financial burden for State or Local Government.” He added.

Advance Morwell believes the remediated site, with its ample space, power and water supply services will be extremely suitable for the establishment of other industries.

Mr Guy said “Advance Morwell is calling on the proponents of the heritage application to think through the potential consequences of their action and revoke their request in order to create much needed new jobs and allow the demolition of this site to proceed as soon as possible.

“We must be realistic, if it took over 30 years for the iconic former Battersea Power Station in the middle of London to be successfully repurposed, how long will it take to find and fund a future use for a former power station in regional Victoria” Said Mr Guy.

Spirit of Christmas in Morwell Launch

Community — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 11:59:12 GMT

Today is the launch the Spirit of Christmas Shoppers Competition with an ALL DAY SALE TODAY, Friday Dec 2nd.

Shops throughout the CBD have been decorated with the delightful images from the "12 days of Aussie Christmas this year. Shop locally in the 28 participating businesses and be in the running to share in $1500 vouchers; first prize, $1000 (10 x $100), second $300, third $200 thanks to Latrobe Valley Express, Bendigo Bank & Advance Morwell. Drawn Dec 19th.

Music for Morwell's Legacy Place

Community — Wed, 16 Nov 2016 11:56:13 GMT

Morwell’s Legacy Place is now home to three outdoor musical instruments following Advance Morwell’s receipt of a $20,000 anonymous donation.

According to Advance Morwell spokesman, Max Williamson, the donation from a philanthropic supporter was given on the condition that it was spent on a permanent improvement to Morwell that enhanced the town.

“Advance Morwell has put great deal of thought into what we could purchase with the donation and decided upon musical instruments as they would provide a new attraction for children.” Said Mr Williamson.

“It was decided to place the musical instruments in Legacy Place as they would not only be a drawcard for youngsters and their parents, but would also help raise the profile of Morwell’s Sir Stanley Savige, the founder of Legacy.” He added.

Mr Williamson said “The three instruments that have been installed are Imbarimba, Drum set and Manta Ray which were chosen so that their harmony would complement the CBD.”

“Legacy’s approval was sought and Latrobe City also undertook a community consultation prior to the installation of the instruments.”

Pictured: Morwell’s Callum Sennett enjoying the new musical instruments.

Hazelwood Closure - A New Beginning?

Community — Wed, 02 Nov 2016 12:28:54 GMT

Advance Morwell has welcomed the announcement that the Premier will lead a Latrobe Valley Taskforce in response to the Hazelwood Power Station closure.

According to Advance Morwell spokesperson John Guy, the premier’s involvement in the Taskforce is a step in the right direction. The Latrobe Valley Taskforce is a great initiative and while the Premier’s involvement is good to see, the reality is that the transition away from brown coal generation is such a big issue that it will require input from all levels of government.” said Mr. Guy.

“We are calling on the Premier to invite representatives from the local community, Latrobe City, the Federal Government and Committee for Gippsland to participate to participate in a forum that will inform the Cabinet in a forum that will inform the Cabinet Taskforce.” he added.

Advance Morwell is taking a broader view of the anticipated closure of Hazelwood, seeing this is the first in a series of significant generation plant closures which will impact the region over many years to come. “Regions all over the world have experienced the scale of change the Latrobe Valley is about to endure and regardless of the industries involved, the impacts on their communities and economies have been significant – some well-managed, but unfortunately most not.” said Mr. Guy.

Advance Morwell believes there is a requirement for a long term, comprehensive and multi-faceted strategy, that will not only deal with the impact of Hazelwood’s closure, but also plan for the future closure of other generation assets in the region.

“While we are hearing about the immediate job losses in the power industry and our hearts go out to those individuals who will be losing their jobs as a result, there will be much broader impacts felt throughout the region as the economic repercussions of the closure flow on to our small business operators, their employees and families.” said Mr. Guy.

“The future of this region is now in the balance. Only with a comprehensive long term whole of government plan, can we capitalise on the region’s assets and turn a potential economic disaster into a successful example of economic transition.”

“The alternative, will be social and economic devastation that that the rest of the Victorian community will have to bear for many years to come” he added.

Chairman’s report to the 2015-2016 AGM

Sun, 02 Oct 2016 05:11:37 GMT

This will be my last report as Chairman as it is time for me to relinquish the reigns and past the leadership on to others. The Committee was advised of this decision some months ago so as to give them time to think about a successor.

Advance Morwell was formed in 1997 following the return of elected councils after the amalgamation process.

At this time there were at least three Groups operating in Morwell; The Morwell Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Morwell Mainstreet; and The Morwell Development Group.

At a Meeting of these groups held at the Italian Australian Club it was decided to hold a public meeting on the 26 November 1997 at KERNOT HALL.

OUR AIM IS TO ADVOCATE FOR MORWELL AND LATROBE CITY WITH LOCAL STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND TO STRENGETHEN OUR LINKS WITH SMALL BUSINESS IN THE CBD OF MORWELL.

Since that time the organisation has worked tirelessly to promote and lobby all levels of Government in the interests of Morwell, Latrobe City and Gippsland.

Over the past 12 Months Advance Morwell has commissioned and paid for a Graffiti Artist to paint a work on the wall of the Trophy Centre.

The banner previously erected by us depicting the Power Industry had deteriorated was in need of replacement. Since this work was completed other work has been commissioned by shop owners and the project is now being managed by RMIT as part of the work of Reactivate across Latrobe City.

An unknown Morwell resident has made a very generous donation of $20,000 to Advance Morwell and it was decided to purchase three outdoor musical instruments and to place them in Legacy Place.

The instruments have been purchased and are in storage awaiting installation by Latrobe City.

A Rose Garden signage project sponsored by ENGIE (GDFSuez) is progressing with the first location sign completed and installed and the second rose garden layout signage to be completed in the near future. Max Williamson is managing this project on behalf of Engie and Advance Morwell.

The Arlie Bank Gallery has been managed by Advance Morwell for 16 years and continues to house Bev’s Wonder World of Dolls. Max Williamson has managed the property and attended to maintenance over this period.

Following the Hazelwood Mine Fire the former Coalition government provided a 1.4 Million dollar economic development package for urban design, tourism, beautification, events and small business mentoring projects.

The Future Morwell Urban Design Revitalisation Plan which is being funded from this package has been given the green light by Council for an 8 week Community Consultation Process which is due to start following the end of the "Caretaker Period"

The Future Morwell Project has been a long, time consuming and frustrating project for a number of Advance Morwell and Community Members and I can only hope that following the Council Consultation period we see something happening on the ground in commercial Road.

We are pleased to report that Advance Morwell has an active traders group with representatives on our Committee. The Traders Group meets separately on a regular basis to deal with issues facing the CBD and to plan special activities.

We have had one successful meeting of the two groups and it is expected that these combined meeting will continue into the future.

We were pleased to be invited by the Committee for Gippsland to participate in the "our Region Our Future Project" the results of which have been forwarded to State and Federal Governments as input into the debate about the Latrobe Valley Transition.

We have also made representations through the Committee for Gippsland to the State Government on recent and continuing problems with Vic Rail and the Gippsland Line into Melbourne. One would hope that with the sale of the Melbourne Ports and the funds that are now available as a result of the sale that we will see a dedicated rail service between Pakenham and Melbourne Melbourne in the near future.

Since the Hazelwood Mine Fire in February 2014 a considerable amount of time has been taken up with Committee Members representing Advance Morwell on the Community Recovery Committee and the Mine Fire Enquiry, as well as numerous consultations on a range of topics emanating from the Mine Fire. I have recently used the phrase "Consultation Fatigue" which I believe a lot of people are suffering since the Mine Fire as various Government Departments seek input from the community.

It is now approaching three years since this event and I often ask the question "Would we be in a better position if another event occurred today"

In closing I would like to thank the current Committee members Vice Chair Graeme Sennett, Secretary Keith Brownbill; Treasurer Max Williamson and Membership Officer Howard Williams committee Members David Mcinness, Beverly Lorraine, Ruth Codlin, Lauren Marks, Lynn Keeley, Jenny Rutherford

For their contribution to the success of Advance Morwell over the past year.

Wonderworld of Dolls features in Dolls, Bears and Collectables Magazine

Community — Thu, 05 May 2016 10:14:58 GMT

Bev Lorraine's Wonderworld of Dolls, a unique Morwell attraction, has featured in the highly regarded Dolls, Bears and Collectables magazine.

The article outlines the wonderful collection curated by Bev and housed at Airlie Bank House, which was restored and is maintained by Advance Morwell.

To see the collection, visit Airlie Bank House, 31-33 The Boulevard on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 3pm or other days by appointment. For more information call Bev on (03) 5133 9066 or email richwern@bigpond.com.

Shop Latrobe Gift Card Program

Community — Wed, 23 Mar 2016 07:07:23 GMT

Advance Morwell, together with retailer groups from Moe, Traralgon and the LCBTA, are excited to be launching a Shop Local Gift Card Program, which will use the EFTPOS network as the transaction processing platform.

This Program was rolled out successfully in November 2014 by the Traralgon Chamber of Commerce & Industry as a pilot project, and as a result of it’s success, we’re now expanding it across the entire Latrobe City.

Using a ‘closed loop system” the program enables participating businesses to accept ‘Shop Latrobe City Gift Cards’ in their stores, in the same way that you would accept an eftpos or credit card.

We invite all businesses throughout the Latrobe City to participate in the Gift Card Program, as it’s success will be dependant upon providing gift card recipients with diversity to shop at as many stores as possible throughout the region. So far over 40 businesses are participating in the program, with many more showing interest in joining.

The Shop Latrobe City Gift Card Program will encourage consumers to shop locally, and enables small businesses to compete with the larger stores and shopping centres, who all offer their own Gift Cards.

Advance Morwell supports the retention of the Traralgon ASIC Office

Community — Sun, 14 Jun 2015 10:26:44 GMT

Advance Morwell Chairman John Guy OAM, said today that the news of job losses at the ASIC Traralgon Office is yet another blow to employment in the Latrobe Valley.

As a former Mayor of Morwell, Mr Guy said that he could well remember the effort that went into the establishment of the ASIC Office in Traralgon.

The three councils of the time in Moe Morwell and Traralgon were warned that if they did not work together, they would not be able to attract this facility. It was our working together that finally convinced the Federal Government to build the facility in the Latrobe Valley.

For weeks now we have been hearing rumours of the privatising of this business and assurances from politicians that this would not lead to job losses.

With wall to wall national and liberal party politicians in Gippsland, we need them to actively support the retention of regional jobs and ensure that ASIC remains in Traralgon providing much needed work for our community.

“It is important for us all to work together and lobby government to not only retain our existing jobs, but also to create new employment opportunities to both address our region’s escalating unemployment issues and diversify our narrow employment base.” Added Mr Guy.

Advance Morwell presents Performing Arts and Convention Centre Submission to Latrobe City Council

Community — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:40:54 GMT

Advance Morwell Chairman, John Guy, presented Monday night's Latrobe City Council meeting with a comprehensive submission highlighting the weaknesses of the Traralgon site for the proposed Performing Arts and Convention Centre, along with the strengths of the Kernot Hall site.

Advance Morwell PACC Submission 2015

Latrobe Performing Arts and Convention Centre

Wed, 13 May 2015 01:17:13 GMT

Advance Morwell Executive are currently preparing a submission to the Latrobe City Council on the proposal to construct a Performing Arts and Convention Centre.

Submissions are being presented to Council at their meeting on Monday 18th May 2015 at 6 PM.

Council are reviewing the project and its location. As you will be aware the previous Council decided on Morwell as the Location and this is now one the issues being considered in this review.

Press Release - Advance Morwell Welcomes Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry Reopening

Sat, 02 May 2015 00:31:38 GMT

Advance Morwell welcomes reopening of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry and Health Study funding but is critical of the lack of Government response to other issues facing Morwell

Advance Morwell Chairman John Guy OAM has welcomed the recent announcement by Premier Daniel Andrews on the reopening of The Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry and funding for the Mine Fire Health Study.

Mr Guy said “This is great news for Morwell, but the Government must give adequate notice to the community about the hearing dates to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute.”

“The re-opening of the enquiry is an opportunity to bolster regulations as they apply to mining in Victoria and to ascertain the veracity of claims that the mine fire contributed to the local deaths.”

According to Mr Guy, Advance Morwell is extremely concerned and disappointed that other significant issues facing Morwell are being ignored by the State Government.

“Letters to Government Ministers on issues such as the construction of the Morwell Primary School, the future restoration of Power Station sites and Local Government governance are not even being acknowledged” Said Mr Guy.

“Morwell has suffered greatly over recent years and we need certainty that as industry transitions, we will not be left with disused industrial sites and poorly rehabilitated infrastructure”

“The former and long disused SECV interconnecting railway bridge at Morwell’s Western entrance is a stark and ongoing reminder of the visible scars that will be left behind if Government does not effectively regulate and control the deindustrialisation of this region.” He added.

Authorised by; John V Guy OAM

Chairman.

Advance Morwell Inc.

Morwell has been Sunflowered

Community — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 12:09:08 GMT

Advance Morwell applauds the efforts of Reactive Latrobe and their 'Get Sunflowered' initiative which has resulted in some excellent publicity for Morwell as well as a great community response.

Advance Morwell Welcomes the Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry Report

Wed, 03 Sep 2014 03:15:17 GMT

Advance Morwell has welcomed the recommendations of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry Report together with the affirmations made by both GDF SUEZ and the Victorian Government.

According to John Guy, Chair of Advance Morwell, the report is very comprehensive and clearly details the inadequacies of the GDF SUEZ response along with the failure of various Government agencies to respond in a timely manner.

“While the report highlights the failure of Labour, Coalition and Local Governments and Local government, to effectively regulate and enforce the operation of mining in the Latrobe Valley, Advance Morwell is disappointed that the recommendations do not address this situation.” Said Mr Guy

“If implemented, the comprehensive list of recommendations and affirmations, together with actions regarding the regulation of coal mines in the Latrobe Valley, should mean that we never in future experience an event of this magnitude.” He added.

Mr Guy, who is a forty year plus resident of Morwell, as well as Chair of Advance Morwell, went on to say that there is a strong feeling within the Morwell Business and wider Community, that it is now time to see an end to the endless negative publicity about Morwell.

“Our traders, whose businesses suffered significant financial impacts as a result of the fires, are telling us that in the interests of the town’s future economic viability and reputation, we now need to put this traumatic event behind us and move on.” Said Mr Guy.

“We can do nothing to change the past, but we can use what we have learnt from this event to make sure that the people of Morwell and surrounds do not experience such a catastrophic event again.” He added.

Advance Morwell has applauded this week’s announcement by Craig Lapsley, Chief Fire Officer, of the creation of the Latrobe Valley Fire District, covering about 25 fire brigades and all the power stations and coal mines.

According to Mr Guy, this initiative will strengthen the effort to control and mitigate further outbreaks of fire in and around the Latrobe Valley.

Advance Morwell Welcomes Morwell CBD Improvements

Sun, 06 Jul 2014 14:00:00 GMT

Latrobe City councillors, Advance Morwell chair John Guy, Department of Planning and Community Development's Laurie Paton and Member for Morwell Russell Northe welcomed the improvements to the area around Morwell's skate park.

"The existing Commercial Road roundabout is too narrow, with trucks and cars often clipping the brick retaining wall, which causes damage to the brickwork, creating a poor impression of the town for those entering Morwell from the east," Mr Northe said.

"This project will fund an expansion of the roundabout to minimise damage from vehicles and reduce ongoing maintenance, with the roundabout garden to be enhanced with new plantings."

Read the full article in our local newspaper

The Express

Sir Stanle Savige Memorial: Legacy Place

Mon, 30 Jan 2006 19:15:24 GMT

A memorial to honour the life and work of “Sir Stanley Savige” will soon be erected in Morwell according to Advance Morwell Chairman, John Guy.

“Advance Morwell is extremely pleased to announce that the Sir Stanley Savige memorial will be constructed in the soon to be developed park adjacent to the new Rail Underpass in Commercial Road.” Said Mr Guy.

“This memorial will recognise and provide information about Sir Stanley Savige who, having been born in Morwell, became a prominent humanitarian and soldier and was also the founder of Legacy.” He added.

A “Sir Stanley Savige Memorial Committee” chaired by Cr. Darrell White has been formed and includes representatives from Latrobe City; Advance Morwell, Legacy and The Moe R&SL.

Invitations to join this Committee have also been issued to the Morwell R&SL, Morwell Lions Club and Morwell and Hazelwood Rotary Clubs.

Mr Guy Said “Advance Morwell will continue to take the lead role with the project, which has an estimated total cost of $15,000.”

“It is proposed that the Memorial will be funded by contributions from the public, Advance Morwell, Latrobe City, other interested organisations and we will be appealing to the public to also make donations” He added.

Advance Morwell will also seek assistance from the Federal and State Government and have set Legacy Week 2006 as the target date for completion and the official unveiling of the Monument.

According to Mr Guy, local Sculptor Mr. Glen Davies has been approached to cast a Bust of Sir Stanley Savige and Advance Morwell will soon be tendering local stone masons to erect a suitable monument and install the Bust.

In delivering a Memorial Oration at the Opening of the 26th Annual Conference of Legacy Clubs of Australia, 1954 Legatee Brian Armstrong said in part:

“It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service.”

Born at Morwell in Victoria in 1890 he received, with his brothers and sisters, such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district.

He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge.

Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys.

Even in those early days he attracted youth, and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous.”

“Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and of all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of the man we now remember.

By his works you shall know him. He was, in my belief, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team.”