Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum: The Power of Data

  • 23 Jul 2025
  • 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM
  • City of Victor Harbor Civic Centre – 1 Bay Road, Victor Harbor and virtually via Zoom

Registration

  • Before proceeding with the Non-Member rate, please ensure you have checked if you may be eligible for the discounted member rate - many Councils and Subsidiaries have purchased organisation memberships which entitles all staff to membership at no charge. You can check this by clicking the 'check your eligibility for the member rate' button below.
  • Before proceeding with the Non-Member rate, please ensure you have checked if you may be eligible for the discounted member rate - many Councils and Subsidiaries have purchased organisation memberships which entitles all staff to membership at no charge. You can check this by clicking the 'check your eligibility for the member rate' button below.

Register

Join us for the upcoming LG Professionals SA Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum: The Power of Data.

We’ll be joined by guest speakers from across local government and industry, who are using data to drive smarter decisions, deliver better outcomes, and build more responsive, efficient organisations. From AI-powered compliance tools to urban forest asset planning, infrastructure insights and a panel discussion from local Directors and CEOs, this Forum will showcase practical examples of how data is being harnessed to create real impact. The Forum will wrap up with a field visit to the Victor Harbor Horse Tram Authority, showcasing data in tourism asset management - plus a chance to enjoy lunch with the Clydesdales.

This Forum will be held in person and via Zoom. Please be aware that the last session of the Forum will be for in-person attendees only.

Unlocking Data with AI

Dustin Georgeson - Manager Development and Public Safety, City of Victor Harbor

The City of Victor Harbor is revolutionising local government operations by deploying Aero Ranger's AI-powered platform, enabling real-time vehicle tracking, automated compliance reporting, and advanced analytics - all managed through a centralised dashboard. This cutting-edge technology streamlines enforcement, enhances public safety, protects employees and provides actionable insights for smarter city strategic planning.

Data Drama: Successes, Slip-Ups, and Saves

Victoria MacKirdy - Chief Executive Officer, City of Victor Harbor
Jodie Summer - Director of Corporate Services, District Council of Yankalilla
Andrew MacDonald - Chief Executive Officer, Alexandrina Council

Join a panel of CEOs and Directors from the neighbouring councils of Victor Harbor, Alexandrina, and Yankalilla, as they reflect on their journeys to becoming more data-informed organisations.

Through a candid Q&A format, panellists will share real-world insights on what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how data is helping drive better decisions, collaboration, and community outcomes.

 


 

Data does grow on trees

Ian Seccafien - Coordinator Arboriculture, City of Marion

Ian Seccafien, Coordinator Arboriculture at the City of Marion, brings 30 years of dedicated local government experience to enhancing urban landscapes. His career journey, starting as a Horticulture (Arboriculture) apprentice and progressing through hands-on field roles, tree assessment, leadership and contract supervision, has cultivated a strategic approach to urban forest management, with a particular emphasis on asset planning for trees. Leveraging this extensive experience, he leads a team of 14 staff, managing a significant multi-million-dollar budget to implement best-practice arboricultural strategies, including a comprehensive asset management plan, and foster a thriving urban forest for the Marion community.

Infrastructure - The data we need (and don't need) to transition from instinct to evidence-based decisions

Craig Headon - Former Director and Founder of Inside Infrastructure

In a world where data is everywhere, how do we distinguish what drives value from what creates noise? Join Craig Headon, former Director and Founder of Inside Infrastructure (a Ricardo Company) as he unpacks the critical role of data in decision-making. Drawing on his extensive experience in infrastructure management and delivery, Craig will explore the value and management of data, the people behind it, and the cultural and governance shifts needed to become a truly data-driven organisation. With regulatory pressures pushing for greater integration, he will also examine how misleading data can obscure the real costs of service delivery and asset management.

Our final session of the day is a field visit to the Victor Harbor Horse Tram Authority Stables (a five-minute drive from the Victor Harbor Civic Centre) Please note: this session is only available to those attending in-person.  

Community Data and the Clydesdales

Meg Whibley - General Manager, Victor Harbor Horse Tram Authority

Meg Whibley is the General Manager of the Victor Harbor Horse Tram Authority, a Section 42 subsidiary of the City of Victor Harbor. The mission of the Victor Harbor Horse Tram is to offer historic experiences and create lasting memories for both visitors and the local community.

In this session, Meg will discuss the 2023 research commissioned to assess the economic and historical value of the iconic Horse Tram. Based on the findings, the team has developed new revenue streams, which will further enhance its significance. She will also highlight the new stables, designed to provide top-notch facilities for the Clydesdales and staff - an exciting development that we are fortunate to experience.

At the end of this session, you are invited to stay on for a pay-your-own-way light lunch and networking with other attendees. If you would like to stay for lunch, please indicate this in your registration.

Thinking about making the trip? We encourage our Members to join us in-person for this Forum. Reach out to your colleagues for carpooling opportunities to maximise connection and reduce your environmental footprint. 

Registrations for this forum are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

By registering for this forum, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

Mailing Address: 148 Frome Street ADELAIDE SA 5000   Phone: 08 8224 2080   Email: admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au


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