Town Hall
BALLARAT could be a world heritage leader, according to World League of Historical Cities conference report.
Ballarat City Council heritage co-ordinator Susan Fayad said league membership helped build on Ballarat’s role in south-east Asia and China.
“Ballarat’s position on the board is extremely valuable in positioning Ballarat organisations in an international domain,” Ms Fayad said in her report to Wednesday night’s council meeting.
“With long-term commitments to the (league), the council taking a leadership role in international relations and through partnership with key Ballarat agencies and organisations, Ballarat has potential to be a leader on the world stage in integrated heritage preservation, interpretation, planning and related industries.”
The council sent three representatives to the conference in Hue, Vietnam, including Ms Fayad, traditional Wadawurrung woman Bonnie Fagan and mayor Mark Harris.
Sovereign Hill representative Tim Sullivan also attended.
After a question from council candidate Gary Fitzgerald, it was revealed the trip cost $8810.98, which paid for flights, insurance, entry visas and fees. All conference costs were met by the league, as Ballarat is a board member.
Ms Fayad said: “Council has agreed that the league is an important body for sharing information and ideas, knowledge and techniques and collegial support among the leadership in the member cities and towns.
“It is essential that we clearly understand the benefits of the Ballarat City Council having a role on the international stage, and in particular, given the league’s strong Asian focus.”
fiona.henderson@thecourier.com.au