NYIRRIPI CHILDCARE CENTRE REOPENS - On Tuesday 9 February, 2021 there was a - Central Desert Regional ...
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EDITION NO. 42 / APRIL 2021
Central Desert News
THE NEWSLET TER OF THE CENTRAL DESERT REGIONAL COUNCIL, CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
OUR STRATEGY :: Two Ways – One Outcome
Indigenous and non-Indigenous people working together.
Eastern Arrernte :: Atherrele ularreke – ularre anerremele mpwaretyeke.
Anmatjere :: Atherr ankwerr - anyent arrarteme.
Warlpiri :: Yapa manu kardia jintangka nyinawyjaku.
NYIRRIPI CHILDCARE CENTRE REOPENS
O n Tuesday 9 February, 2021 there was a
morning tea held to celebrate the reopening of
the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Nyirripi
Childcare Centre and introduce the new Coordinator
Tyler Tafstad.
The morning was attended by six children and
fifteen adults who gave a warm welcome to Tyler.
Other local service providers attended to show their
support for the centre reopening. Morning Tea and
children’s activities were the focus and the event
was enjoyed by all who attended.
The centre has been closed since early 2020 due
to having no Coordinator, with it only opening two
days a week in October, November and December
2020 by the CDRC Laramba Coordinator, Irene Floyd.
Playing on the equipment.
E R
DE N
The children enjoying morning tea. Playing with the toys.
SI AN
IN PL
!
Central Desert News is published by
1
Central Desert Regional Council
/2
PO Box 2257, Alice Springs NT 0871 facebook.com/centraldesert
Ph 1300 360 605
20
www.centraldesert.nt.gov.au
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
YUELAMU CDP ROAD WORKS
YUELAMU TIDY TOWN AWARD COMES HOME
F ollowing the win for Yuelamu of the Water Conservation (Innovation) award in the 2020 Territory Tidy Towns
Awards online, Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Senior Administration Officer Yuelamu, Norman Hagan,
L ast week the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Community Development Program (CDP) worked on fixing a road in
Yuelamu.
A large gully in the road made it unsafe for driving. The CDP participants filled it in with gravel and finished it off with top
received the physical award on behalf of Yuelamu from Regional Services Manager, Jason McKissock. soil. This will stop water from travelling down it and creating even more erosion.
This was not the first time Yuelamu won the Water Conservation Award, winning it back in 2017, but it was the first Now the drivers and pedestrians of Yuelamu can travel along this street safely again.
time that the awards ceremony was held online.
The road before being fixed. Aboriginal Liaison Engagement Officer Finished off with top soil.
(ALEO) Leroy Stafford, filling in with
gravel.
ENGAWALA FLOOD CLEAN UP
T
Jason McKissock (left) presented Norman Hagan (on behalf of Yuelamu) with the award.
he recent heavy rainfall of 260mm in Engawala caused minor flooding including blocking the access road. Once the water
went down the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Engawala Works Team got to work cleaning up the road to make
it a smooth crossing.
ANMATJERE FLEXIBLE AGED CARE SERVICE COMPLIANT
I n a report that came out 24 February 2021, the Anmatjere
Flexible Aged Care Service (Ti Tree) was given a tick of approval
by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
The service, run by Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC),
was considered to be compliant with the requirements set
out in the Aged Care Quality Standards. These standards are
developed by the Australian Government.
“Congratulations to everyone in Aged Care in Ti Tree. This is
a fantastic result for Anmatjere Flexible Aged Care,” said Pip
Parsonson, Director Community Services at CDRC.
The Engawala access road, with Waite Creek flowing across it. Terry Drover and Bruno Tilmouth clean up the road after the
flood.
One of the rooms at the Respite Centre in Ti Tree.
2 3
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
IT'S RAINING TRAINING FAMILY WELLBEING TRAINING FOR AGED
I t’s raining training at Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC)!
The week of 15-19 March was a very busy week for training
CARE
at CDRC. Congratulations to Warren Kenney, Ben Campion and
Sascha McKell who completed their Certificate IV in Work Health
and Safety. This means that CDRC now has had 11 staff achieve this
C entral Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Aged Care Services staff in Anmatjere (Ti Tree) started their Certificate II in
Family Wellbeing on Monday 22 March.
The certificate, delivered by Batchelor Institute in Ti Tree, is a program that addresses the physical, mental, emotional
qualification in the last four months. and spiritual issues that impact on an individual’s wellbeing, family unity and community harmony.
There were also 22 staff who finalised their enrolments and The aim of the certificate is to address unresolved personal and community issues, which can impact on individuals
started their first units in Certificate IV Local Government in the and families throughout their lives. These can manifest in grief and trauma, suicide and other forms of self-harm,
month of March. Delivery of this training was conducted in Alice identity issues, use of alcohol and other drug problems, family violence and over representation of Aboriginal and
Springs, Atitjere, Ti Tree and Yuelamu. Torres Strait Islander peoples in the justice system.
The CDRC Works crews in the communities are continuing their Through the certificate, staff will
Certificate III in Rural Operations, however Yuelamu was postponed gain knowledge on how to face their
due to the weather. own personal issues and to help
“It’s always exciting to see staff complete training - building their others in community when help is
skills and confidence, and gaining valuable qualifications,” said needed, especially Aged Care clients.
Irenee McCreevy, General Manager People and Culture. It will also open a pathway to
higher level qualifications in Aged
Care for the staff.
Staff have already completed the
training at Lajamanu, and next will
be Engawala, Atitjere and Yuelamu.
Warren Kenney with his Certificate IV in Work
Health and Safety.
Back row: Karen Khan (Batchelor trainer), Edna, Lanceton, Terrizeta and Sonia.
CRICKET UPSKILL FOR YOUTH, SPORT AND
Front row: Shikeera, Cherise and Selina.
RECREATION STAFF TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING FOR WORKS
C entral Desert Regional Desert (CDRC) had four representatives at Northern Territory Cricket’s Community Coaching
Course (Level 1) on Wednesday 17 February.
CREW
Stephen Royes, Stephen Evans, James Anderson and Jeff Aubert (Youth Sport and Recreation Team Leaders in
Engawala, Laramba, Yuelamu and Ti Tree respectively) completed the online component of the course prior to the
practical session, which was held at Mona’s Lounge, Traegar Park in Alice Springs.
O n 12 March Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) works crew members participated in traffic control training,
which they will use for their everyday road maintenance activities such as road grading, pothole patching, signage
installation, etc.
The Team Leaders will pass on the skills learnt to the Youth, Sport and Recreation Officers in their communities The participants were Cyril Kunoth, Albert Wilson, Geoffrey Wilson and Colin French from Yuendumu and Alan Davis
to continue to upskill players in preparation for inter-community tournaments, Imparja Cup, and Youth, Sport and from Ti Tree.
Recreation evening activities. The training was sponsored by Boral Asphalt and was delivered by Civil Train in Alice Springs.
The course was held in conjunction with the Imparja Cup Cricket Carnival, where CDRC were represented by the
Laramba women’s team and the Ti Tree men’s team.
Stephen Royes, Stephen Evans, James Anderson and Jeff A Laramba team member striking the ball in the Imparja Cup. The instructor demonstrating the use of a handheld Geoffrey Wilson practicing traffic control techniques.
Aubert at the Community Coaching Course. portable two way radio to Cyril Kunoth, Albert Wilson,
Geoffrey Wilson.
4 5
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
MOCK TRIAL IN WHS TRAINING MORE 4WD TRAINING IN ALICE SPRINGS
O n Monday 14 December nine Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) staff undertook a mock trial event for their
final unit of Certificate IV Work Health and Safety (WHS) in the Alice Springs office. It took place in the lunchroom
upstairs, with the presiding judge Rob Wallace, the trainer from Balance HR and Municipal Training that delivered the
O n 17 March more Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) staff members attended a four wheel drive course, after
another course run on 17 February. This time there were staff from Community Development Program (CDP),
Community Safety Patrol (CSP), Works and Aged Care.
training.
In the trial one team represented NT Worksafe and the other team represented CDRC in a case study of a scenario
where a contractor using a Council vehicle was injured in a roll-over on the road to Engawala. To succeed in the trial
the teams had to reference legislation and prepare documents for submission.
The mock trial was the culmination of a Certificate IV in WHS that Council staff started back in November 2019. The
training was disrupted by COVID-19 so there were some long gaps in program delivery. Another three staff members
will sit the final trial in February to get the sign off.
The verdict? Possibly guilty so the prosecution team (NT Worksafe) were the victors of the mock trial, but each staff
member was a winner of the Certificate IV.
The aim of staff completing the certificate was for CDRC Managers based in Community as well as Alice Springs to
be aware of their legislative responsibilities under WHS and for them to provide WHS leadership and knowledge to
their teams – with the support of the CDRC People and Culture team of course!
In 2021 CDRC is offering Certificate IV in Local Government and have close to twenty staff enrolled. It’s great to see
staff embracing training opportunities and achieving great results.
Pictured from left: Mark Francis from CDP; Peppi Drover (behind) and Cameron Reiff from Atitjere CSP; Joanne
Tilmouth, Lorraine Foster, Rachel Tilmouth and Sharon Tilmouth from Engawala CSP; Engawala Works field
officers Bruno Tilmouth and Tyrone James (behind); the instructor and Tracey Pierce from Aged Care.
Practicing four wheel driving on desert roads. Practicing four wheel driving on tropical roads.
Nishantha Perera, Steve Walton, Marlin De Silva, Deb Wearne, Frank Tzoukos, Jason McKissock
...AND 4WD TRAINING IN LAJAMANU
O
(crouching), Cameron Ingham, Irenee McCreevy and Matt Wharton, each with their Certificate
n 29 March Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) staff from Lajamanu attended a four wheel drive training
IV Work Health and Safety.
course in Lajamanu.
The attendees were Angela Liddell (Administration Officer),
MUNICIPAL CREWS ATTEND 4WD TRAINING
Michael Erglis (Senior Administration Officer), Max Callingham
(Cleaner), and Matrina Robertson, Nathan Botterill and Melinda
Simons (Community Safety Patrol).
O n 17 February Central Desert
Regional Council (CDRC) municipal
crews from Anmatjere (Ti Tree), Laramba
and Yuelamu attended a four wheel drive
training course in Alice Springs.
The attendees were Mack Murphy,
Norman Hagan and Cliffy Tommy from
Yuelamu; Billy Briscoe and Caesar
Tilmouth from Laramba; and Elias Birch
Baird from Anmatjere.
A four wheel drive course helps keep
drivers safe when on dirt roads and
prepares them in case they get bogged. Pictured from left: Angela Liddell, course instructor Gary Pendlebury,
Pictured from left: the instructor, Billy Briscoe (behind), Cliffy Tommy, Caesar Michael Erglis, Max Callingham, Matrina Robertson and Melinda
Tilmouth, Mack Murphy and Norman Hagan. Simons. Matrina Robertson practicing changing a tyre.
6 7
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
KIDS SAFETY PROGRAM INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
O n Wednesday, 10 March, members of the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Lajamanu Community Safety Patrol
attended a stakeholder workshop as part of the Safe4Kids program. Safe4Kids works through the school to teach
protective behaviours to children, and provide them with a set of tools to use if they feel unsafe. Delivery at the school
E very March 8th is International Women’s Day. Today we are celebrating with an interview with the Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC), Diane Hood.
is followed up with community education sessions, ensuring that adults understand what the children have learned, and What challenges have you faced in your career as a woman? How did you overcome them?
recognise the simple hand gestures that can be used to demonstrate feelings of safety or distress. The inherent challenges to women in our society are sexism and unconscious bias against them. It is assumed that women
should act in a certain way; nurturing and caring, but at the same time when in a leadership role they are expected to be
logical and decisive, which are traditionally seen as male traits. When a female executive doesn’t act the way they are
expected to it is hard for them to be seen as an individual with individual strengths and weaknesses.
In the end, it has made me a better executive because I have been exposed to many different perspectives, and had to
navigate through them. You have to stand up and be counted. Pretending to be someone you are not doesn’t work, but
learning techniques and tools to better manage people and situations is an ongoing process!
An example of challenge was when I once worked for a multi-national company and had a track record of high performance,
but my pay was significantly lower than my male counterparts. When I brought it up to executive there was push back, but
I also pushed for it and ended up getting a pay rise every six months for 2 -3 years, but there was no acknowledgement of
the issue whatsoever.
At some stage women need to make the decision between getting along with people, or standing up for equality. In
another job, I had developed a government training program, for which I was to receive an award. At the presentation the
male presenter of the award said that it was for “giving great morning tea”. I publicly refused the award, which needless to
say, was not how I was expected to behave.
At the end of the day, a lot of organisations have got great policy, but it comes down to individuals to enforce behaviour.
If people (male and female) don’t stop bawdy jokes or inappropriate behaviour of any sort and say “this is not acceptable”,
nothing will change and poor behaviours will continue benefiting those in the majority group.
Which mentors or role models have positively impacted you in your career?
Nell Wilson was a great mentor that I paid to help me navigate a time in my career when I was deciding whether to change
careers or not. She helped me confront my own part in the problems I was facing and advised what I should stop doing. She
also help me see what I should not stop doing.
I have been lucky to have had several great
mentors in my career and I recommend it to
everyone, even if you pay for one yourself. It
can be challenging, but the benefits are worth
Pictured are (back row) Matrina Robertson (CDRC), Holly-Ann Martin (Safe4Kids), Gerald the effort.
Watson and Andrew Johnson (CDRC), and (front row) Francesca Szakaly and Michelle Newman
(Katherine West Health) giving the thumbs up sign, to show that they feel secure. How have you managed to balance your
career and personal life?
I make sure that I have time out, with a
clear division between work and home. It is
ENGAWALA COOL ROOM FOR AGED CARE important to cultivate activities that bring you
C entral Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Aged Care Services have added a wonderful cool room at the Aged Care facility in joy, and also to exercise regularly.
Engawala after receiving funding from the Aged Care Regional Rural & Remote Infrastructure Program.
The new cool room means that sufficient goods can be held for more than a fortnight and more space for clients in the What advice would you give to your 20-
dining area as a result of removing unneeded fridges and freezers. year old self?
Don’t be surprised by people’s behaviour.
Always remain open to possibilities.
Jackets on for Patsy Tilmouth and Rachel Tilmouth, with Irene The completed cool room.
Tilmouth braving the cold in the cool room. Diane Hood, CDRC CEO.
8 9
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
NEW YUENDUMU LANDFILL PIT SMALL CELLS IN REMOTE COMMUNITIES
Y uendumu has just had a new landfill constructed at their waste management facility. It will be used to safely dispose of
community waste over the next four and a half years with a capacity of 5,610m3, or just over two Olympic swimming
pools.
T here has been no mobile coverage in the communities of Nyirripi, Engawala and Laramba in the Local Government of
Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC). This has impacted the liveability and enjoyment of their town for the residents
for a long time.
This is the fourth new landfill constructed by Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) this financial year and uses the CDRC is moving to install 4GX-lite Satellite Small Cells in each community, with funding assistance from the Federal
same design as the Willowra and Yuelamu landfills. The design includes constructing ‘benches’ around the sides, giving it a Government.
stadium look. This reduces the likelihood of the walls collapsing, making it safer for the field staff when working in the pit. This technology will give residents access to email and basic data, and voice calls and text with a compatible device, in
“This landfill design meets Australian standards,” said Shane Coleman, Waste and Environmental Manager for CDRC. “We areas where it has not been possible before. The Small Cells will be installed and maintained by Telstra. The 4GX-lite Mobile
plan to eventually upgrade all the CDRC community landfills using this design.” Satellite Small Cells provide affordable access to 4GX services on the Telstra mobile network for people living and working
in remote areas of Australia. The project is anticipated to increase liveability within the remote communities of Engawala,
Laramba and Nyirripi.
Access to mobile services will enrich the communities which lagged due to digital disadvantage caused by lack of access to
mobile and data services. There will be increased safety as community residents will be able to access emergency services
via their mobiles and reduced economic disadvantage to the residents due to access to competitive services online.
Barring any delays, the towers are expected to be operational by the end of March or early April.
A small cell tower similar
to the ones that will
be installed in Nyirripi,
The benches. The completed pit. Engawala and Laramba.
An aerial view of the landfil. Nyirripi, one of the communities to receive a Telstra Small Cell.
10 11
YEAR PLANNER 2020‐21
Round 1 Round 2 All Staff Meeting Finance Committee Local Authority Meetings from last FY
Local Authority Meetings
Round 3 Round 4
KEY: Council Briefing
Managers' Forum Audit & Risk Committee Special Council Meeting
RCS Forum Work Health & Safety Directors' Council Reports Due
Council Meeting
MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
COUNCIL
JUL 2020 ALL STAFF
MEETING KATHERINE
MEETING
NYIRRIPI
YUENDUMU NYIRRIPI LAJAMANU SHOW
ALICE SPRINGS NAIDOC DAY LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LAJAMANU COUNCIL
SHOW HOLIDAY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY ONLY BRIEFING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
AUG ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
FINANCE
COMMITEE
TI TREE WILLOWRA ATITJERE ENGAWALA LARAMBA YUELAMU
MANAGERS' LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL AUDIT & RISK
PICNIC DAY RCS FORUM FORUM AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY COMMITTEE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
COUNCIL
SEP MEETING
ALICE SPRINGS
YUENDUMU NYIRRIPI LAJAMANU
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL COUNCIL
AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY BRIEFING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
OCT ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
FINANCE
COMMITEE
TI TREE WILLOWRA ATITJERE ENGAWALA LARAMBA YUELAMU
MANAGERS' LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL
RCS FORUM FORUM AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
COUNCIL
NOV MEETING
ALICE SPRINGS
YUENDUMU NYIRRIPI LAJAMANU STAFF
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL COUNCIL CHRISTMAS
AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY BRIEFING PARTY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
DEC ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
FINANCE
COMMITEE
MANAGERS' AUDIT & RISK BOXING DAY ANNUAL ANNUAL ANNUAL
RCS FORUM FORUM COMMITTEE CHRISTMAS DAY BOXING DAY HOLIDAY SHUTDOWN SHUTDOWN SHUTDOWN
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
COUNCIL
JAN 2021 MEETING
ALICE SPRINGS
NEW YEAR'S COUNCIL
DAY AUSTRALIA DAY BRIEFING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
FEB ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
FINANCE
COMMITEE
TI TREE WILLOWRA ATITJERE ENGAWALA
MANAGERS' LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL
RCS FORUM FORUM AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
COUNCIL
MAR ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
MEETING
YUELAMU
LARAMBA YUELAMU YUENDUMU NYIRRIPI LAJAMANU
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL MANAGERS' COUNCIL
AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY RCS FORUM FORUM BRIEFING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
APR FINANCE
COMMITEE
TI TREE WILLOWRA ATITJERE ENGAWALA LARAMBA YUELAMU
EASTER LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL AUDIT & RISK
ANZAC DAY LOCAL LOCAL
GOOD FRIDAY MONDAY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY COMMITTEE HOLIDAY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
COUNCIL
MAY MEETING
ALICE SPRINGS
YUENDUMU NYIRRIPI LAJAMANU
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL COUNCIL
MAY DAY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY AUTHORITY BRIEFING
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
JUN ALL STAFF
MEETING
WHS
COMMITTEE
FINANCE
COMMITEE
MANAGERS' QUEEN'S
RCS FORUM FORUM BIRTHDAY
MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON
COUNCILLOR COMMUNITY WARD COMMITEES WARD COMMUNITY
DIXON, Adrian (President) Laramba Anmatjere Finance, Audit & Risk, CEO Performance
AKITYARRE WARD Atitjere
GLENN, James Ti Tree Anmatjere Finance Committee
McCORMACK, David Yuelamu Anmatjere Audit & Risk Committee Anmatjere, Engawala,
ANMATJERE WARD
VACANT until August 2021 elections Anmatjere Laramba, Yuelamu
MARTIN, April Willowra South Tanami Finance Committee Yuendumu, Nyirripi,
SOUTHERN TANAMI WARD
SPENCER, Jacob Nyirripi South Tanami Finance Committee Willowra
WILLIAMS, Freddy Willowra South Tanami Audit & Risk, CEO Perfomance Committee
NORTHERN TANAMI WARD Lajamanu
WILLIAMS, Warren (Deputy President) Yuendumu South Tanami CEO Perfomance Committee
GEORGE, Robert Lajamanu North Tanami Finance Committee
MARSHALL, Joe Lajamanu North Tanami
LIDDLE, William Atitjere Akityarre Audit & Risk Committee
WEBB, Jamie Atitjere Akityarre
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
CDP ACTIVITIES PROTECTING TREES AND BOOKS
Community Development Program (CDP) participants across all the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) sites have been
reengaging with the program after the Christmas break and the men's business season.
In Yuendumu they have been making tree guards for trees purchased under the Drought Relief funding.
They are also making bookshelves as part of the Drought Relief funding. Participants and the team at Yuendumu CDP led
the project which included designing the bookshelves. They are currently in the process of making eight book shelves to be
sent to other CDRC communities where they will be decorated and put into the Council offices as a small library.
CDP PROGRAM
PROVIDES WORK
EXPERIENCE SUZIE STAFFORD
Since 2013, Council has delivered the Community Laramba
Community Development Program
(CDP) in Anmatjere, Laramba, Skills Painting, cooking, reading, writing, and helping children
Willowra, Yuelamu and Yuendumu. Ziggy Brown, Andrew Brumby, and Eli Egan. Eli Egan welding together a tree guard.
Job Interest Working with children
As part of the program, job C o m m u n i t y I enjoyed attending CDP with the cooking classes. I have
seekers are able to undertake work Development assisted with CDP community barbeques and I enjoy
experience that assists them with Program attending the art room to paint, but I also assist with
work readiness. This frequently keeping it tidy and organised. CDP assisted me with getting
results in the job seeker being my Ochre card and supported me to start a role with the
employed by Council or another Laramba School to assist the children in the classroom. I
employer – a win-win situation for enjoy working with and helping children.
all.
Council also partners with
organisations that provide training
and skills development.
The program supports the Freddy Patrick putting together a book shelf. Nathan Brown and Aaron Singleton (kneeling
communities’ and Council’s goal down) building a bookshelf.
of “a diverse and growing regional
economy including strong local
employment and a gradual increase SNAPSHOTS FROM AROUND THE REGION
in the number of locally available
jobs”.
Two CDP participants, both past and
present, are profiled here.
Part of Council’s role as a CDP VICTOR KELLY
provider is to facilitate training and Community Laramba
support to assist job seekers find Skills Woodwork, restoration, drawing
employment.
Job Interest Woodwork
Standard training activities include: C o m m u n i t y I have really enjoyed CDP, never been with this program
resumé preparation, work health Development before. CDP was really helpful, I think if you have a positive
and safety, food handling, manual Program attitude CDP can really assist you. CDP helped me with
pointing out where jobs were available in community, I
handling, numeracy and literacy, needed help with boots and work items and this was
basic repairs and maintenance supplied immediately. I was successful with a construction
for buildings, cooking, health and job very quickly and I could start straight away because I
had work boots and clothes. CDP helped me understand
nutrition and timesheet preparation. and complete the paperwork and now I really enjoy my
job with Asbuild in community.
14 15
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
CDRC HAD GOOD RAIN IN DECEMBER THE TANAMI HIGHWAY
L here Mparntwe (Todd River) flowed after a good amount of
rain fell in Alice Springs just before Christmas. C an you spot five (5) differences between the two photos of the Tanami highway when it was flooded?
Good rain fell on the Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC)
communities as well. North of Alice Springs, the rain was steady
and there were sporadic parts where water was over the Stuart
Highway (with a gentle current) from approximately 2 kms
before the Laramba turnoff, until Aileron. The Tanami road was
temporarily closed due to flooding (see photo facing page).
The Nyirripi road was closed and in Nyirripi the phones were
not working and large parts of the community were under water,
including roads and the football oval.
All Yuelamu access roads were closed due to big rain over two
days. Also closed was the Yuelamu Clinic as the staff were on
call from Yuendumu clinic over the Christmas period. Yuelamu Rain over the roads in Nyirripi.
airstrip, rubbish collection and Power and Water staff were also
not available due to the weather.
All Engawala access roads were closed due to heavy rain falls
over the the same two days. Engawala airstrip was also closed
temporarily.
The Mt Dennison to Willowra road was closed and the road
from Willowra to Stuart Highway was unpassable due to the
heavy rain over a few days. Lander River also flooded.
Atitjere had steady rain and the creeks were flowing on the
Plenty highway but were not an issue to traffic. “We have been
getting a good soaking rain,” said Scott Pinchbeck, Community
Safety Patrol Team Leader for Atitjere. The Plenty Highway
was closed between Dneipier Intersection and the Queensland
Border due to flooding. Rain over the road out of Yuelamu.
The freight truck got in early on the morning of 22 December to
get in Christmas supplies to Lajamanu. “The rain is a continuous
heavy drizzle that occasionally turns into heavy rain,” said
Community Services Manager Heather Smith.
Laramba was cut off due to closed roads and the Napperby
River flowing. “The two sides of the river are flowing and it’s
still raining,” said Billy Briscoe, acting Community Services
Coordinator. “It’s good for country. Lots of green grass coming
up,” he added.
But some of the houses were flooded with water in Laramba.
Yuendumu had several days of persistent rain. Early on Monday
21 December morning was torrential resulting in the flooding of
roads. The airstrip was closed for almost 24 hours but re-opened
the on the Tuesday morning. Locals enjoying the floods in Engawala.
Levy bank breach in Yuendumu. Houses to the right of
One of the flooded houses in Laramba. the photo were not penetrated by the flood water.
16 17
CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
YUENDUMU RECYCLING SHED
YUELAMU MARCH RAIN - ROAD CLOSURES
AND BOGGED VEHICLES Y uendumu now has a dedicated recycling shed, with bays for seven different recycling categories.
The shed was designed and constructed by an Alice Springs business using local employees, to cater for the community’s
needs and to assist with increasing recycling.
It also focusses on diverting waste from landfill, which is a National, Northern Territory and Local Government initiative.
O ver the four days from 11-14 March there was a constant amount of rainfall in Yuelamu resulting in road
closures and vehicles bogged.
“It was astonishing, the speed the water rose on Saturday. Within three hours the Napperby River rose by inches
The aim is to increase the average resource recovery rate from all waste streams in Australia to 80% by 2030 (National Waste
Policy Action Plan 2019).
Each of the seven bays is dedicated to a separate recycling stream. These are tyres, bottles and cans, white goods, gas
and the Tanami highway had water over the road in multiple locations,” said Tammi Booker, Central Desert Regional
bottles and fire extinguishers, motor oil, paints and chemicals, and batteries. The community residents are able to drop of
Council (CDRC) Community Services Coordinator in Yuelamu.
recyclable material without contamination, which allows Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) staff to collect the recycling
On the approach to Yuelamu from the Tanami highway the turnoff was completely covered in water making it only
easily to put in piles ready for value adding / recycling.
accessible to high clearance four wheel drives into the community.
This is a good reminder that if a road crossing is flooded, don’t try to cross it.
Yuendumu had several days of persistent rain. Early on Monday 21 December morning was torrential resulting
in the flooding of roads. The airstrip was closed for almost 24 hours but re-opened the on the Tuesday morning.
The shed will mean the recyclable material will not get
contaminated by rubbish.
The Napperby River on Saturday 13 March.
Seven bays for seven recycling streams.
The Napperby River on Saturday 13 March.
The Yuelamu turnoff.
18 19CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
CDRC VALUES AWARDS ENGAWALA CEMETERY PLOT MARKER TRIAL
T hese are the premier Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) awards, now in their third running. The value of the awards
has been increased as the standard has increased. The awards were formally acknowledged at the last All Staff meeting in
March, where winners received a certificate, $200 voucher and a mug commemorating the value the winner is demonstrating.
T he Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Engawala works crew have installed new plot markers in the cemetery, as part
of a trial to better mark out the plots.
“Community residents have visited the site after the works were completed, and were very happy with the new plot
Congratulations to all the winners, well done on demonstrating the values and your strong contribution to Council. markers in the cemetery,” said Community Services Coordinator, Frank Tzoukos.
“Engawala has one of the best cemeteries in CDRC. It highlights the need for caring and respecting for the deceased,” he
Teamwork – People and Culture Recruitment Team – Cameron Ingham and Sonsee Isaako
added.
Cameron and Sonsee have demonstrated excellent collaboration, working well together and with Managers, to achieve great
After the success of the trial, the plot markers will be introduced to all CDRC cemeteries, says Jason McKissock, acting
results. In the last four months they have actioned 51 successful appointments, which is more than 1.5 staff appointments
Regional Services Manager. “They should all be completed in the next 12 months.”
per working day.
To achieve this, Sonsee and Cameron established new processes to keep recruitment actions moving forward during staff
leave, demonstrated good communication by creating a new Recruitment and Selection Standard Operating Procedure and
working with Managers.
Accountability – Norman Hagen – Administration Officer, Yuelamu
Norman has focused on solutions, making sure all worksites in Yuelamu have had worksite inspections conducted. He is
the new HSR and has delivered results quickly. Norman’s role is normally undertaken by higher level staff, but he owns the
outcome and ensures the job is done.
Norman received training from the WHS Advisor and immediately put it to good effect, delivering a quality result.
Integrity – Wayne Porter – Aged Care Coordinator, Nyirripi
Wayne keeps his promises by supporting Council values to get great engagement
from his local workers. He actively promotes his staff in good news stories and when
other staff are visiting. Wayne communicates changes in policy and processes in a
culturally appropriate way, ensuring his staff understand Council expectations. This has
resulted in consistent staff, reduced absenteeism and allowing Council to consistently
deliver full services.
Wayne is responsible, reliable and consistent both with his staff and messages,
fulfilling his WHS obligations and with his comprehensive reports to his Manger. He
makes sure meetings result in progress, an example being where a serious WHS hazard
was reported, but not actioned, Wayne escalated it accordingly until it was resolved. Field officers Bruno Tilmouth, Eric Tilmouth, Adrian Price Some of the new plot markers at Engawala cemetery.
and Tyrone James finishing off a marker.
Respect – Irene Floyd – Children’s Services Coordinator, Laramba
Irene demonstrates here commitment to Council by aligning with Council’s goals.
She did this when she filled the Manager role for a long period, even when she didn’t
want to. Irene also ensured services could operate at both Nyirripi and Laramba. She
demonstrated her ability to prioritise her duty to Council when dealing with staff issues
amongst those who were usually her peers. Wayne Porter after receiving his
Irene acted on behalf of community, advocating strongly through the Local Authority certificate, voucher and mug. CDRC STAFF PROFILE: JANE ARMSTRONG
and also her relationships with local staff. Irene actively encourages staff to grow in
their roles and mentors local staff to act in a Coordinator role when she is not on
community – this is great succession planning in action and promotes sustainable communities in a practical way. H ow long have you been with Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC)? Just over two and a half years.
What position/s are you in / have you had? My first role with CDRC was as Community Development Program (CDP)
Case Manager and Female Activity supervisor in Yuelamu. I worked there for just over twelve months. Next I took on the
Nominations in the future will be open to all staff. CDRC values are the cornerstone of how we operate and how we deliver position of CDP Case Manager in Laramba, and three months later became the relief Case Manager. I have recently accepted
services – it is great to have such good examples as our winners! the position of Manager Community Safety Patrols after acting in the role for the past six months.
What is your favourite thing about working for CDRC? I enjoy
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT IN TI TREE LIBRARY working with our community members. I’ve been fortunate enough to
visit each of our sites, and have worked with such an amazing variety
T he Ti Tree library spruced up for Christmas last year, with decorations bringing a
cheerful mood. They even had a tree with presents underneath. They were also
offering services for
of people. Living in community has given me the opportunity to form
very strong relationships with some of our residents, and I get a lot of
satisfaction from seeing how work makes a positive impact.
Christmas such as Why is your position important? The Community Safety Patrol is an
wrapping gifts, helping to essential part of community life. It plays an invaluable role in keeping
write Christmas cards or children off the streets at night, settling minor disputes, and making
hand-making gifts. sure that safety issues are appropriately escalated. Their presence
gives community members a sense of security. It’s rewarding to me to
The library is open:
be able to offer my support and guidance to the teams who are doing
9am -1pm this work in nine of our communities.
Monday – Thursday What do you like doing outside of work? When I lived fulltime in
9am – 12pm community, I made most of my own clothes, but find that I’m doing
Fridays less of that now that I’m based in town and on the road a lot. Now
that I have a kitchen with a gas stove, I’ve been rediscovering my love
of cooking. I’ve always been an avid reader, and find that’s the one Jane Armstrong, new Manager Community Safety Patrol.
The Christmas tree. Decorating the library. interest I have that never changes.
20 21CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021 CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
ATITJERE – READY TO BARBECUE ANYWHERE ENGAWALA REPRESENT AT SOUTHERN CUP BASKETBALL
COMPETITION
T he Atitjere Local Authority (LA) decided they wanted barbecues in their community – and they got them. Two fixed
barbecues were located at sites that the community wanted for family gatherings and social events, and a barbecue
trailer is an asset to both Atitjere and the surrounding outstations, as it can be used for a variety of functions ranging from
birthdays to funerals and everything in between.
T he 2020 Southern Cup Basketball Tournament saw Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) represented by a men’s team
from Engawala on the weekend of December 5 and 6 2020.
Featuring a good mix of youth and experience, the Engawala Men were drawn against six other teams, and made it through
Back in July 2020 the first barbecue was installed at the rear of the Recreation hall by Central Desert Regional Council
to the third and fourth place playoff. In a close, see-sawing game, the Engawala team lost by only 2 points 20-22, finishing
(CDRC). It included an LED light.
fourth overall.
The team was very competitive throughout the tournament, their only big loss coming at the hands of the reigning
The next barbecue was installed at the basketball court back in
champions Tennant Creek, when they went down 23-35. Even in this game, the team showed their willingness to compete
November 2020. This barbecue complimented another LA project
to the end, outscoring Tennant Creek 18-10 in the second half.
– a 12m x 6m shade structure and picnic tables. The barbecue
The team also played a couple of 3 x 3 games on Saturday morning; however drawn against some of the favoured teams,
was installed at one end of the shade structure and has a solar
they did not make it to the 3 x 3 finals.
powered light installed above. This site was also chosen as it
The team also participated in a community coaching and referee education session on Friday night, with Ian McAdam from
is close to the playground and basketball court, an area that is
the ‘Redtails Pinktails Right Tracks’ program.
central to the community and used often. The installation was
A big thank you to the CDRC Staff who came down on both Saturday and Sunday to cheer the team on, and Central Desert
completed early November in time for Christmas.
Regional Council look forward to providing intercommunity basketball opportunities in 2021.
The barbecue trailer fit-out was completed by Warren Kenney
(Community Services Coordinator) and Scott Pinchbeck and is fully
off grid, sporting a 130 watt solar panel, 120 amp-hour battery and
solar charger, two 60 litre Engel fridge/freezers and LED lighting
throughout. The fridge/freezers can be set up as either fridges or
The recreation hall barbecue with the light on.
freezers or a combination of both. The fridges can be kept running
on the battery alone for several days. So far the barbecue has
been used for a couple of Christmas events, sorry business and a
couple of Youth, Sport and Recreation events.
The Engawala Men’s team. Back row (left to right): Joseph (Nino) Tilmouth, Kelvin Neal, Nino Tilmouth looking to shoot.
Nathan Fishook, Field Officer, Scott Pinchbeck, Community Reagan Drover, Owen Ryder. Front row (left to right): Carl Inkamala, Kassidy Bird, Kalem
Scott Pinchbeck installing the fridge/freezers into Safety Program Coordinator, and Shane White, Works Williams, Justin Tilmouth, Dwayne Bloomfield.
the barbecue trailer. Supervisor with the barbecue at the basketball court.
The coaching and referee education session with Ian McAdam. CDRC Children and Youth Services Manager Marlies Coleman
Warren Kenney working on the supporting the team.
electronics of the barbecue trailer. The completed barbecue trailer with slide-out hot plate.
22 23CENTRAL DESERT NEWS / APRIL 2021
CDRC COMPETE IN IMPARJA CUP FINAL
T he Imparja Cup 2021 finals took place on Friday 19 February and it came down to the last over in the grand final for the
Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) Laramba team who almost took out the title.
After playing six games through the rounds and then winning their semi-final, the Laramba team played in the Statewide
Super Women’s Community Division grand final against the team Ladeez (Alice Springs). Central Desert batted first to make
a total of 87. Simona Tilmouth top scored for the Laramba team with 30 runs (forced to retire) and took two wickets. But
it was the consistent batting from the Ladeez team with four of the six batters making double figures which saw them take
out the title. They won with just six balls to spare. The team displayed great integrity, humour and sense of fair play for the
entirety of the competition, and represented the community of Laramba with great pride.
The Anmatjere team represented CDRC with pride, and learnt a new set of skills throughout the competition. Although the
team were unable to come away with a win, they were competitive throughout the week, with some fantastic performances
from a number of players. They were beaten in the 7th vs 8th final against ASCC Eagles.
Congratulations to the following players who made ‘Team of the Tournament’ for the men’s and women’s community
divisions:
Male – Lachlan Moore
Female – Annalisa Dixon
Female – Tahlia Turner
The Laramba team. The Anmatjere team.
Laramba won the toss in the final, electing to bat first. Going for a hook shot.
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