Greater Shepparton has app-etite for innovation

Cr Sali moved a notice of motion at the November Greater Shepparton City Council meeting seeking an officer’s report on the development of an application that includes listings of what’s on, where to eat or shop, parking, transport, including reporting issues and payment options.

Cr Sali said the app could also extend to community information, waste education and local employment.

“We have so much information currently available and my priority is to bring it together in a simple and easy to use smartphone app,” Cr Sali said.

“We’re known as an event city so being able to showcase what’s on is so important to locals and visitors including where to eat and shop. Our parking app could also be connected and local transport timetables, etc.”

Cr Sali said the app could be used to report issues or participate in community consultation as well as make payments to the council.

Councillors unanimously supported the idea.

“I’m actually surprised that we haven’t already,” Cr Anthony Brophy said.

Cr Greg James said the app was an exciting project for the council and the community and could also include cultural history and points of interest.

“I think it’s a great initiative, and very innovative,” he said.

Cr Rob Priestly suggested while Cr Sali was “all thumbs” with his own phone, the app would be useful while Cr Geoff Dobson, a Melbourne supporter, suggested it should also feature grand final results.

Jokes aside, Cr Fern Summer said she first heard the idea when Cr Sali pitched it during the election campaign and it was good to see it now gaining momentum.

“My first response was that it sounded very operational and I wasn’t sure how you would proceed with this, but it might have been just a sign of my age, and it’s a sign of the times that apps are very relevant and that we do need them,” she said.

“I think you’re an absolute trailblazer because this does set somewhat of a precedent for us to be innovative and after some thought on the issue, to potentially come back with some amazing outcomes.”

Cr Sam Spinks said the possibilities were limitless.

“We can have notifications pop up for when grants become available and a calendar of events that we can tap into,” she said.

“I think it’s just the next step in the way that council can operate in to connect with people.”