Shania Richards

2022 candidate for City of Port Lincoln.
Heritage survey responses.

Do you think that Councils and community members need to have a greater voice in planning and development decisions affecting their local area?
Most definitely. It is imperative that we understand the history of our country, and the land we’ve inherited from our ancestors and their sacrifices. We owe it to our species to look after our planet, starting here at home with our own backyards. It’s a sacred duty we need to respect and uphold with pride and dignity.
What role should Councils play in protecting local heritage places from demolition or inappropriate development?
A huge role, as it’s their job to represent the local community and it’s First Nations language groups and native title holders. As I personally believe all land is sacred, like our ancient country and should be protected as such. Our local history and land should never be compromised. As once it’s gone, we can never recover it. The councils need to honour this sacred connection between spirit, mental health and our local environment. As from human history there is studies researching the direct correlation between the human and its environment, and it’s time we admit that money will never cure this sickness. We need to cure our species by curing our planet. Starting by local councils taking responsibility and accountability, so that together in unity we may hold all society accountable for letting this destruction affect our population so heavily.
How would you seek to improve protections for heritage places in your area?
I would start by talking about it, finding the elders from all demographics in the area who know about it and are willing to share according to cultural protocols. Then I would start researching solutions and reaching out to others with the same drive and vision, present my experience and findings then ask if they would like to be apart of history in the making. To save the planet so the next generations never have to struggle in chaos like we have. Then Once I found the correct people that care, then we’ll work together to manifest a solution. Even if we have to write to other politicians or go onto media platforms to bring more awareness to this important topic.
We rarely see new places added to local heritage listings. Why do you think this is?
I don’t know to be honest, as I lack that level of knowledge as I don’t have much experience working in that particular position. But from working as Cultural Heritage Monitor and Consultant during the pandemic, taught me that big corporations don’t really care. They think money is worth more than our nature libraries. And I first hand watched them destruct the country my ancestors have roamed for over 60000, then preach how they protected our sacred sites so they’re “not racist and eco friendly” Yet they destroyed the minerals, crystals, trees, plants, and animals homes. And displayed sexist behaviour onsite. But they told my elders and tribes they were doing the right thing by us and the land and our ancestors. So I believe some people would rather sell out than admit they are wrong in this case.
How has the Planning and Design Code impacted on the heritage, amenity, and environment of your area? What changes would you seek to the Code?
From what I’ve seen so far, it has actually helped improved morale among the local population. As they feel more included, since the roll out of the process. I would like to edit more than change, as I think a few tweaks agreed upon by the consensus would improve heaps.
What are the impacts of infill development in your area? What changes would you seek in the rules around infill development?
Not much is actually known about it locally, and I would like to see much more transparency.
Construction of new housing typically uses 30% labour and 70% materials. Renovation of existing housing stock typically uses 70% labour and 30% materials. What policy changes would you like to see made to encourage people to renovate, rather than demolish and build anew?
Something a lot more fair for all.
How should the community be informed and involved in decisions about new developments?
I believe they should be involved in all stages of the process, from initial idea meetings, to consultants and continuous updates. Can be done through social media, traditional media, open zoom meetings, physical meetings ect
Do you think there is adequate tree canopy across your local government area?
Not really but again I haven’t had much experience but would like to see improvements
How would you like to see significant and regulated trees in your area protected from removal?
I would love to see it highlighted as the magnificent source of energy that it is, and see more education to the importance of having trees.
What involvement should Councils have in decisions about protecting or removing significant and regulated trees?
A lot, as they should be very educated in its purpose and placement in our ecosystems. Like basic biology is taught at high school, so everyone should be able to understand the impact and affect a single tree can have on a whole human community. (Not to mention the plants and Animalia)
What actions would you advocate to slow or mitigate the impacts of climate change in your local government area?
Definitely advocate for clean renewable energy, such as harnessing wave energy, solar energy and wind energy. Also would like to see the fuel problem end with cars if there was an opportunity to switch out for electric cars in our local area.
What issues are there with traffic and parking in your area?
Heaps. Not enough parking in the main city area. And backed up traffic on busy roads. Also heaps of car crashes at certain round abouts and intersections as no one really knows the proper correct rules for it.
How could transport options be improved in your area?
A lot! I have a vision for using our abandoned train tracks for a local tram that runs on solar power to help lessen the school traffic.
What would your top three priorities be for improving planning policy and outcomes in your local government area?
Transparency
Accountability
Honesty