A LODDON Shire director’s recommendation to put a draft inclusion policy out for community feedback almost faltered at Tuesday’s council meeting.
There were several calls from Mayor Dan Straub for a councillor to move wellbeing director Wendy Gladman’s recommendation.
Cr Gavan Holt asked whether there was a reluctance to move the motion or if councillors wanted to reconsider the draft 2025-2029 plan.
It was only after Cr Straub said the recommendation would lapse that Cr Holt, seconded by Cr David Weaver moved the motion that was later carried.
Mrs Gladman told councillors that plan was part of requirements under the Disability Act.
Cr Holt said the motion was simply to put the draft on public display and that his future decisions would be guided by community feedback.
Mrs Gladman said: “While the (plan) aims to improve access and inclusion for the whole community, when considering access and inclusion there are other cohorts within our community which can experience disadvantage or are often under-represented in mainstream community activities, including our young people, LGTBIQ+ community members, people from non-English speaking backgrounds and older people.
“The plan aims to create an inclusive community where young people feel accepted, supported, and safe. We also recognise that for youth to stay in or return to Loddon, they need to feel that their values, ideas, and perspectives are respected.
“In 2023, council resolved to fly the Rainbow flag on May 17, recognising IDAHOBIT Day (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia) in response to a petition. 
“This practice can now be formalised through clear and consistent policy as council’s position through the plan,” Mrs Gladman said.