Local Government Convention 2010 Day Four

Sunday, August 15, 2010

The final day of the convention included presentations to of the Long and Loyal Service and the Distinguished Service Honour Awards.

Mr Terry Gray was presented with the Long and Loyal Service Award for his services on the Shire of Kent.

Following the awards, our keynote speaker came to the podium and held the audience in the palm of her delicate hand for the next 45 minutes. I've never know such a hush to be held over the entire auditorium as there was when Gill Hicks spoke to the delegates.

Gill Hicks was severely injured in the 2005 London bombing and is a passionate advocate of inter-community relations and peace, worldwide. She is Ambassador for Peace Direct, an international peace initiative.

Gill's story was one of incredible survival, humanity, kindness and strength. Her near death experience led her to 'sign' a contract to stay alive and work towards making our world a more tolerant and peaceful place. She lost both legs below the knee and now uses artificial limbs and a working stick.

Her account of the struggle to live and all that took place during her recovery was one that brought tears to the eyes of many in the audience. One gentleman asked if she would marry him, during the Q & A session afterwards.

Her gentle demeanour and humble attitude had us all in love with her.

The WALGA AGM was held in the afternoon. Cr Crosby and I attended as delegates in order to vote on the numerous motions.

Councillors then joined the Broomehill/Tambellup crew at dinner that evening.

Overall, I'm not happy with the convention program this year. I've suggested in the feedback on the white board provided that concurrent sessions be held in future to cater for the huge diversity of the shires in our state, including rural, remote and indigenous councils.