David Kimber

2014 candidate for District Council of Loxton Waikerie.
Heritage survey responses.

1. What do you think Council's role is in protecting and conserving heritage?
   I have a proven track record with local history and heritage and believe, within prevailing severe budgetary constraints, that Council should (and does) what it can to maintain tangible links with our past. Supporting local enthusiasts' endeavors and initiating or creating restoration/preservation activity is part of Council's role.

2. What measures and incentives do you support to protect and conserve local heritage?
   It always gets back to money and time. Grants are becoming rarer than the proverbial feathered frog and personnel, both paid and voluntary, are sorely taxed. Setting a climate for care and concern is an important part of this Council's role.

3. What is the most important heritage protection issue in your local government area?
   In a sense, Loxton's iconic Historical Village is the most obvious. Collapsing rural Mallee towns leave behind fading examples of our pioneers' endeavours. To guard against their disappearance/decay is a matter being attacked by enthusiastic local 'outbackers' and Council provides small grants or financial assistance as well as in kind help when possible.

4. What policies and programs will you advocate to protect and conserve heritage in your local area?
   Refer above.

5. Do you support local Councils retaining development approval powers for projects over $3m in value?
   I do not have sufficient knowledge to give a useful answer.

6. Do you have any other thoughts about the protection of heritage in your Council area?
   What can be done is being done. Loxton-Waikerie is a 'can do' population with a background of German settlers and second world war veterans that have THE ATTITUDE! Recent centenary's and their successful recognition and support are testament to this. I guess ALL councils are crying out for meaningful grant assistance.