Community input into the decision-making process

Council has adopted a layered decision-making process that allows for a well considered balance of broad and deep engagement. The appointment of a Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) and Community Advisory Panel (CAP) are key components of this process. These Panels operate in an advisory role. They are not a decision-making body.

Community Advisory Panel (CAP)

The CAP is a group of people representing local businesses, residents and community groups that meets regularly to discuss the project and act in an advisory capacity. In May 2024 a new group was formed (CAP2.0) to replace the original CAP.

The primary objectives of the Community Advisory Panel are to:

  • Share knowledge regarding the Dalby Cultural Centre and ultimate site.
  • Encourage the development of productive relationships between all community groups and stakeholders.
  • Act as conduit to the broader community to share accurate information and generate further understanding about the project within the terms of the Community Advisory Panel.
  • Foster positive ongoing relationships between stakeholders focussed on arts, cultural and recreational activities.

Learn more about the CAP

On the 14th of May, 2024 the newly formed Community Advisory Panel (CAP) met for the first time to discuss the Dalby Cultural Centre project. Of the 46 applications received for the 13 available positions many were scored highly by the panel. To ensure there was a good cross representation of community views that covered the range of perspectives outlined within the selection criteria, an additional two postitions were made available.

The 15 appointed CAP members represent a diversity of perspectives, interests and community groups which include local arts and culture, library, education, local business, open spaces, events and families. Specifically the groups are members of many community groups and organisations including Western Downs Libraries, Dalby Chamber of Commerce, Dalby Regional Arts Council, Gallery 107, Save Thomas Jack Park group, Dalby Little Players Theatre and more.

The panel members are:

  • Chris Bermingham
  • Peter Cuskelly
  • Steph Dillon (or representative of Chamber)
  • Ally Doumany
  • Martin Fullagar
  • Jane Grieve
  • Cara Keehn
  • Kaitlin Machin
  • Tara Routley
  • Lynn Sharpe
  • Glenn Shipway
  • Danielle Small
  • Rachael Summerville
  • Deanna Wilson
  • Trish Morrin (or representative of Gallery)

If you see any of our CAP members out and about in town they will be happy to update you on project progress and bring your views back to share with the group at the next meeting.

To form the CAP 2.0, Council put out an open call for anyone to apply. These applications were then assessed by a panel made up of independent facilitators and senior officers from Western Downs Regional Council. The community representatives were chosen based on the following criteria:

  • Relevance: The applicant demonstrates personal or business connections to the Dalby region and/or participation in community groups or organisations with an interest in the project outcomes. The applicant demonstrates a genuine interest in the project and a commitment to work constructively towards positive community outcomes.
  • Representation: The community representatives collectively represent the demographic diversity of the area and a range of community perspectives. Collectively the new members provide relevant insights into local arts and culture, library, education, cinema, local businesses, open spaces, and events.
  • Engagement: The applicant demonstrates a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with other community members who may have divergent views, share insights from their own experiences, and build awareness of the project across their local networks.

Of the 46 applications received for the 13 available positions many were scored highly by the panel. To ensure there was a good cross representation of community views that covered the range of perspectives outlined within the selection criteria, an additional two positions were made available.

The panel will focus on the new Cultural Centre with advice related but not limited to:

  • Site location
  • Vision and values of the Cultural Centre and its surrounding location
  • Concept plans
  • Objectives
  • Sharing back concerns or insights from wider community

Youth Advisory Panel (YAP)

The Youth Advisory Panel was formed in May 2024 to complement the activities of the CAP and ensure the voice of youth is strong throughout this project.

The YAP is composed of 15-20 students from grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 from three local schools. Through key stages of the engagement process, the YAP will meet in advance of the CAP so that the students can then present a summary of their views to inform the CAP discussion.