Banyule Banner May 2013

banner BANYULE

May/June

2013 PAGE 2 What’s Hatched in Banyule?

PAGE 4 Competition for kids PAGE 7 Friends beat about the bush PAGE 9, 10 & 11 Mayor’s Column and Ward Rounds PAGE 16 Accessible homes PAGE 18 New playgrounds bring fun for kids

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Banyule Council has opened its first permanent home for the arts, Hatch Contemporary Arts Space.

Its inaugural exhibition, Home - Reframing Craft and Domesticity, runs until 11 May (Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm) and will be followed by Hello, featuring the work of artists from Araluen (see below right) from 23 May to 15 June.

Hatch occupies the previous Banyule Arts Space, a mini art deco theatre that was hired out for functions and used by Council for occasional exhibitions and events.

With its rebirth as Hatch, the foyer and main hall were renovated to reveal and highlight its art deco features and better equip it as a gallery space.

Banyule Mayor Cr Wayne Phillips said the arts played a significant and important role in community life. “Hatch provides a space for people to reflect, discuss and critically debate diverse arts practices and their relationship with and contribution to contemporary life.�

Hatch will feature exhibitions, workshops, performances, and artists in residence and while located in Ivanhoe (14 Ivanhoe Parade), most exhibitions will include extensive satellite programs across Banyule.

The soon to be formed Hatch Contemporary Arts Space Advisory Group will help guide artistic programming and management of the space.

Hello from the gifted artists of Araluen Vibrant drawings, paintings and mixed media pieces representing the diverse styles and personalities of 25 artists from Araluen go on show from 23 May to 15 June.

Exhibiting creativity at home Home, the inaugural exhibition, attracted Eddy Carroll, above, as Hatch Studio Artist in residence, while another internationally exhibited artist Irianna Kanellopoulou, from Heidelberg Heights, also featured her works, which are pictured below and on the Banyule Banner cover.

Supported by Banyule Council, the artists are presenting their first large scale show, Hello. Araluen offers support services to adults with intellectual disabilities that enhance choice, independence and social inclusion.

Your are invited to join the artists for the Opening, at 6pm on 23 May at Hatch, 14 Ivanhoe Parade, Ivanhoe.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

Artwork: Russian Wooden Church, Kizhi Island by Tony Allan.

Acrylic, soft pastel and ink.

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banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

Sowing seeds of healing A green thumb and a healing heart are bringing benefits to patients at Austin Health and have set Steven Wells on a career that is literally and figuratively flourishing.

Thanks to Steven’s passion for a greener, more healing environment, Austin Health won the business category of the Cities of Darebin and Banyule Sustainability Awards. Steven was also named ABC Gardening Australia’s Gardener of the Year 2012.

The sustainability awards, part of Banyule’s Sustainable Homes and Communities Program, recognised and celebrated the many achievements of residents, community groups, schools and businesses in working towards an environmentally sustainable future.

Steven trained as a nurse, going on to study horticulture and finally combining his two loves to become a Horticultural Therapist and the Gardens and Grounds Project Officer at Austin Health, where he also nurses.

Steven in the garden he recently created outside Heidelberg Rehabilitation Hospital’s café, which has 550 plants, including crepe myrtle trees, exotic, native and succulent plants, with rust-coloured steel screens and whimsical metal dragon flies.

“We are providing places and areas for patients, visitors and staff to have respite, recovery and a chance to leave a clinical hospital setting and sit in a more natural garden environment that provides many benefits,” Steven said.

He has also created an extensive sensory and therapeutic garden surrounding all wards at the Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre.

“Yes, there is an environmental benefit but also physical, emotional and psychological benefits. As people we are connected to plants.”

An added benefit of the greening program is its use of long term unemployed people from the local community through Avocare, a not-for-profit community based organisation, to plant and develop the new gardens.

Steven has now created numerous gardens across Austin Health, all funded by donations and non-operational budgets, with 4,000 plantings of indigenous, natives and exotics, all on a non to minimal watering plan.

Steven hopes to inspire others to use plants and green spaces to improve the environment and benefit the community.

Casting on for World Knit in Public Day Banyule is celebrating the world’s largest knitter run event, which is designed to demonstrate that knitting can be a great community activity.

Bring your knitting and have a yarn (pardon the pun) as you knit one, purl one and meet new friends. Knitters of all abilities are welcome.

FREE sessions Sat 8 June, 2pm-4pm WaterMarc, 1 Flintoff St, Greensborough

Wed 12 June, 10am-Noon Taffy’s on Looker, 15 Looker Rd, Montmorency Tues 11 June, 10am-Noon Bien Food, 37 Greville Rd, Rosanna

Tues 11 June, 1pm-3pm Watsonia Library, Ibbotson St

Thurs, 13 June, 10am-Noon Café Kokko, 187 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe Bring your knitting and have coffee and cake on us! Book with Customer Service on 9490 4222.

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Gearing up for a great Seniors Festival Mini-grants open If you are 60 or over, it’s time to start preparing for another exciting, jam-packed Banyule Seniors Festival Program throughout October.

From June 10, community groups in Banyule are invited to apply for grants of up to $200 to fund a Festival activity or event that engages 60+ residents and supports increased community connectedness.

The grants close on 12 July. Application forms: www.banyule.vic.gov.au or contact Jill Taylor on 9457 9971 or via jill.taylor@banyule.vic.gov.au

Competition honours older people

Artworks must be submitted on A4 or A3 paper: • Post to Art Competition, Banyule City Council, PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079; or • Hand delivered, marked Art Competition, to Council’s Ivanhoe, Rosanna or Greensborough service centres.

The prizes in each category (primary and high school) are: 1st prize - iPod Touch; 2nd prize – iPod Shuffle; 3rd Prize – Family Swim and Slide Pass to WaterMarc.

Council is running an art competition for children and young people to recognise the special older people in their life - it could be their nanny or pop, Holly, aged 6, drew herself, left, with her Nan. a neighbour or the school crossing supervisor!

The competition is open to primary and high school students. Students must provide a piece of artwork, along with words either on the artwork or presented separately, expressing what is special about the older person/s (aged 60+) in their life.

A selection of artworks will be displayed at Festival events and the winners of the primary and high school categories will be featured in the Nov/Dec Banner.

The competition is open from 1 May to 31 August to primary and secondary students residing in or going to school in Banyule. All entries must include the name, age and address of the artist, as well as the name and phone number of their parents/guardians, clearly marked on the back of the artwork.

“My Nan is special because she picks me up when my Mummy can’t.”

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Become a Wiser Driver for free If you are aged over 60, join our Wiser Driver course and update your knowledge and skills for free.

Being able to get out and about is important for an active, independent life. The majority of older drivers are rightly proud of a good driving record and old age in itself is no reason to restrict driving.

However, as with drivers of any age, taking the time to upgrade knowledge and build on experience, and doing this in the company of peers, can be very helpful.

Statistics show that as roads get busier, older motorists and pedestrians are more likely to be at real risk should an accident occur and are also more likely to be injured.

Council’s free Wiser Driver course runs over a 4-week period on Wednesday mornings, 10am to Noon, June or September, at our Rosanna Customer Service Centre.

No driving lessons or tests are involved and the

atmosphere is friendly and informal, thought provoking and challenging. Groups are kept to between 10 and 15 people, with plenty of time for discussion. A delicious morning tea is provided.

If you would like to attend the Wiser Driver course, call Customer Service on 9490 4222. Why not invite a friend or relative to join you?

Say NO to the abuse of older people On 15 June, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, wear a purple ribbon and let older people in our community know that they have the right to live without fear and abuse.

This international day is designed to raise awareness of the abuse of the elderly. An estimated 6% of Australia’s older population experiences abuse on a regular basis, a number expected to rise as the population ages.

Elder abuse is any act that harms older people, which is carried out by someone they know and should be able to trust, such as family and friends.

Harm can be financial, psychological, physical, sexual or social, including mistreatment and neglect.

Financial abuse is the most prevalent form of abuse and is the illegal, improper use or mismanagement of a person’s money, financial resources, property or other possessions.

Older women are two to three times more likely to experience abuse.

Where can older people get help and advice?

Seniors Rights Victoria is a free and confidential telephone and advisory service providing: • Information and referral • Advocacy and support • Legal advice • Community and professional education More information: Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821 between 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, or via info@seniorsrights.org.au.

Visit their website at www.seniorsrights.org.au.

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Advocating for the community Banyule Council regularly advocates on behalf of the community across a range of issues and to organisations, other communities, and State and Federal Governments.

By representing the interests of the community in a range of forums, Council has the capacity to attract additional resources to the municipality and resolve complex issues affecting the city’s liveability.

Twice a year, a report is provided to Council Meetings on how Banyule has advocated over the previous six months on behalf of the community. In the latest report, advocacy initiatives included: • Involvement in the Doncaster Rail Local Government Group, which commissioned a report on accessibility and alternative funding mechanisms for the rail link options.

• Involvement in a Youth Volunteering Forum to encourage organisations to provide increased volunteer opportunities for young people.

• Advocating to the Department of Primary Industries, Local Members of Parliament, the Municipal Association of Victoria and the Victorian Local Government Association about the Domestic Animal Management Act 1994 and associated Standards for Restricted Breed Dogs legislation.

Managing our pets

Companion animals play an important part in people’s lives and pets that are well managed cause few problems.

Council is seeking to tighten up the Act in relation to restricted breeds and dog attacks.

• Involvement in lobbying State Government in relation to cost shifting to local government in areas such as library funding, Home and Community Care, and Maternal and Child Health, which are adding to Council’s costs.

• A submission to the Federal Government’s Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Constitutional Recognition of Local Government, supporting the Federal Government to have power to provide funding directly to local government where it is in the national interest.

For many of the issues of concern to residents, such as transport, health and education, Council is not the service provider but plays a major role in representing, at all levels of government and business, the wider interests of the Banyule community.

To read the full advocacy report, visit www.banyule.vic.gov.au/advocacy Council is developing a new four-year Domestic Animal Management Plan in accordance with the Victorian Domestic Animals Act 1994.

Amongst other things, it outlines programs, services and strategies to promote and encourage responsible ownership of dogs and cats, minimise the risk of attacks by dogs, address over population, encourage animal registration, and effectively identify dangerous dogs, menacing dogs and restricted breeds, ensuring they are kept in compliance with the Act and regulations.

The Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan can be viewed at www.banyule.vic.gov.au/animals or at our Customer Service Centres. It is available for community comment until 31 May. Feedback can be provided by sending an email to enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au or Banyule City Council, PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079, attention Jenny Cotterell.

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banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

Friends reserve best for St Helena In August, a dedicated group of volunteers celebrate the 21st birthday of the Friends of St Helena Bush Reserve.

They are just one of eight friends groups ensuring that some of Banyule’s most significant bushlands and reserves are kept safe and pristine for future generations.

The two-hectare reserve is managed by Banyule’s Bushland Management Unit and is a box-stringy bark woodland, a forest type widespread before urban development. It is of state significance, especially for the many orchid species that flower in winter and spring.

On the fourth Sunday of each month, the Friends of St Helena Bush Reserve meet for two hours to assist in regeneration activities including weed control, direct seeding, and Council supervised ecological burns.

They also provide expert knowledge about local flora; generate ideas for future management of the reserve; co-ordinate an annual working bee with the Australasian Native Orchid Society; and monitor rare and threatened species.

Long-time member, Linda Rogan, loves the reserve, with its wide range of flora. “For me, the Emerald Greenhood Orchid is my favourite but this is rivalled by the sheer number of native species, including the small grass tree. In recent years we have seen progress toward more native

Too much silverbeet and no lemons??

Come and swap your home grown produce, seedlings, recipes, preserves and growing hints with home gardeners at Banyule’s food swaps.

Left to right, Janine,Wayne, Linda and Garry share good times and a love of St Helena Bush Reserve. plants and fewer weeds,” she said.

“I love working with others who value our native flora, and also learning about flora and fauna. We are making a significant difference in the continued survival of this unique bush reserve.”

Other groups within Banyule are: Friends of Darebin Creek, Friends of Montmorency, Friends of Plenty River, Friends of Salt Creek, Friends of Wilson Reserve, Riverland Conservation Society and Warringal Conservation Society.

If you are interested in joining a Friends group, contact Banyule’s Bushland Management Unit on 9490 4222.

It’s a great way to redistribute your excess and keep your fresh food supply local, low carbon and low cost.

1st Saturday, 10am-11am Olympic Village, Moresby Court, Heidelberg West 3081@transitionbanyule.org.au 1st Sunday, 10am-11.30am Montmorency Primary School, 62A Rattray Road julief.davidd@gmail.com 2nd Saturday, 10am-11.30am Poulter Park, Pope Place, Greensborough rachelmbishop@hotmail.com 3rd Saturday, 11am-Noon Macleod Park Rotunda, near Railway Station, Macleod sustainablemacleod@transitionbanyule.org.au 4th Saturday, 10am-11.30am Edendale, 30 Gastons Road, Eltham michele14burton@gmail.com

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Breathing easier in Banyule Children’s playgrounds and events run or sponsored by Banyule Council are now smoke free thanks to a new policy designed to support and promote good health.

The Smoke Free Policy follows community support for introducing smoke free outdoor areas across Banyule.

Between August 2011 and November 2012, Council sought community feedback via online surveys, postcard surveys, the Banyule 2011 Household survey and at the 2012 Malahang Festival.

At the Council Meeting held on 4 March 2013, all Councillors supported the new Banyule Smoke Free Outdoor Areas Policy, which makes the following smoke free: • Along Greensborough Walk and Town Square.

• Within 10 metres of children’s playground equipment.

• At all events run or sponsored by Banyule Council, such as the recent Kids ArtyFarty Fest, pictured right.

• Within 10 metres of the entrances of specified Council owned buildings.

Council is undertaking further work and consultation with sporting clubs, schools, premises with outdoor dining on footpaths and skate park users to ascertain support for extended smoke free outdoor areas and encouraging a “do it yourself” campaign.

What you said: “I do understand the ‘smoker’ point of view in regards to freedom but it impacts on others, including children and does dictate to us, the non-smoker, when we are forced to breathe their smoke.”

“Why

should I, my unborn child or my children, be subjected to inhaling second hand smoke just because we are in public when there is now so much evidence about the potential harm involved.”

“Everyone

has the right to enjoy the great outdoors without breathing in smoke.”

According to Quit Victoria, smoking is the highest cause of avoidable death in Banyule. In addition, cigarette butts are also an environmental issue as they can take five years to break down. They are the most common item found on Clean Up Australia days.

Based on the experience of other States and local councils, smoke free policies are self-enforcing and focus on public health benefits and education rather than punitive actions.

Council is beginning a public education campaign, which will include the progressive roll out of signage.

More information about smoke free areas is available at www.banyule.vic.gov.au.

World No Tobacco Day 31 May is World No Tobacco Day, which highlights the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocates for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.

Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death globally and currently kills one in 10 adults worldwide.

Of the 6 million people killed each year, more than 600,000 are non-smokers dying from breathing second-hand smoke.

Mayor’s Column

banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

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Your views help shape our future Over the past few months, we’ve been asking you about how we can make Banyule an even better place to live, work and play.

We were delighted with the number of people who responded (1,200) as well as with the quality of comments and ideas that we received from residents, traders and community groups and organisatons.

Your feedback through this most recent consultation process and over the last year has helped us form our ideas for some major decisions for the future of Banyule City Council, including: • Implementing a major environmental initiative changing over our streetlights to energy saving globes, saving over 19% of Council’s greenhouse gas emmissions and providing future savings on energy costs.

• Finishing our major stormwater harvesting projects at Kalparin Gardens, Chelsworth Park and DeWinton Park.

• Starting construction of the Stage 1 upgrade of Ivanhoe Aquatic and Fitness Centre.

• Trying to secure the previous State School sites in Bellfield and Heidelberg West to refurbish the stadium and asssociated community facilities and return them to community use.

• Advocating to all levels of government to stop cost shifting and increase focus on Banyule’s transport issues.

The final draft of our City Plan 2013-2017, which has incorporated feedback to date, will be on public exhibition

from 7 May to 5 June, providing the last chance for you to comment if critical issues remain. The document will be available at our Customer Service Centres at Ivanhoe, Greensborough and Rosanna, Banyule’s libraries and online at www.banyule.vic.gov.au/future Submissions will only be accepted in writing to: Peter Utri, Manager Organisational Performance, PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079, or via email at cityplan@banyule.vic.gov.au. Council must adopt the plan by 30 June 2013.

On behalf of my fellow Councillors, I would like to thank you for all your enthusiasm and willingness to provide us with what was quite often very detailed ideas and comments. We are fortunate to have a community which is so ready to work with us – on so many levels – to ensure that Banyule remains a great place to live, work and play well into the future.

From this edition of the Banner, I and my fellow Councillors are bringing you some observations about news and issues in our respective wards. This feature - Ward Rounds - will always follow my column and is one of a number of new ways we will be communicating with you about the activities and issues we are involved in within Banyule. Councillor contact details are also listed and I encourage you to contact your Councillor if you have ideas, comments, or concerns about anything in your neighbourhood.

Cr Wayne Phillips Mayor

Ward Rounds - Councillor observations Cr Wayne Phillips, Beale Ward

in the coming financial year.

Late last year, Council undertook a feasibility study on establishing a number of fenced off-lead dog exercise areas in Banyule’s parks to cater for the growing demand for spaces where people can safely exercise dogs off lead.

During the community consultation, 90% of survey respondents in St Helena and Briar Hill supported this initiative, including Andrew, pictured here with his dog Diesel and myself at the Reserve.

This project will also alleviate pressure on the adjacent baseball ground which is currently heavily used as an informal dog exercise area.

After examining a large number of parks, three were identified as having great potential to service this growing need, including Malcolm Blair Reserve in St Helena. This project will go ahead, subject to the approval of appropriate authorities,

Depending on this project’s success, Council may consider further off-lead exercise areas in future years.

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Ward Rounds - observation Cr Steven Briffa, Hawdon Ward Recently, I launched the 2013 Diamond Valley Relay for Life at Willinda Park, Greensborough, which raised $130,000 for the Cancer Council.

I, like many others, have lost a loved one to cancer. Before my mother’s death, aged only 52, she requested no flowers or anything special for her funeral. Instead, she wanted family and friends to support the Cancer Council to find a cure.

Thirty-four teams (1,100 participants) took part in this 21-hour relay, which over Cr Mark Di Pasquale, Bakewell Ward What’s Cookin’ in Bakewell: Superannuation debt, the Fire Services Levy, the 4-year City Plan and budget - how’s the start of your year? Mine has been busy to say the least. After my election I’ve been finding out what the previous council has been up to. In all, I’m satisfied and it seems the community is too, with the latest community satisfaction report placing Banyule as the second most liked council in the metro area!

Councillors have been meeting regularly

five years has raised almost $500,000.

This incredible effort is in no small part due to the dedication of Chairperson, Phil Ciravolo, pictured here with me. After five years, Phil is retiring and I thank him for his inspiring leadership and encourage others to consider this role.

I also congratulate the top fundraising teams - Holy Trinity College ($11,600), Team Kermit ($10,700) and Montmorency Secondary College ($10,600) – and everyone else who volunteered or took part in this great community event.

to discuss the budget. Having run a small business for many years, I’m definitely bringing experience to the table, including the need to evaluate every expense (outgoings) and wisely allocate all income (stretch every dollar as far as it can go!).

I’m impressed with the level of activity within our community and participation at the many festivals and events, including the Kids ArtyFarty Fest, which my daughters Jessica and Elouise, pictured with me, enjoyed so very much.

I look forward to serving you. Don’t hesitate to contact me. See you out there!

Cr Rick Garotti, Grimshaw Ward As a new Councillor I am thoroughly enjoying getting to know the community.

At a recent community forum, I was impressed with the good ideas generated by the community as part of the consultation process to develop our City Plan 2013-2017, other key plans, and budget.

Community input is important in all we do. I’m currently working on the Loyola Reserve Facility Development Plan. While the ground is home to Bundoora United

Cricket Club and Watsonia Baseball Club, this project is also aimed at encouraging wider participation in sport and physical activity, including girls, women and people with special needs, and providing a more inclusive, welcoming and safe environment.

In April, it was my privilege to return to my old school, Loyola College, and reflect on my experiences to date as a public servant and growing up in the Ward that I now serve. I am pictured with Principal Joseph Favrin and School Captains Catherine Nguyen and Troy Flores, who are both in Year 12.

Cr Wayne Phillips Mayor

Cr Craig Langdon Deputy Mayor

Cr Steven Briffa

Beale Ward

Olympia Ward

0429 807 052

0408 999 189

0401 097 032

wayne.phillips@ banyule.vic.gov.au

craig.langdon@ banyule.vic.gov.au

steven.briffa@ banyule.vic.gov.au

Hawdon Ward

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banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

ns from your Councillors Cr Craig Langdon, Olympia Ward Just over one year ago, a group of Heidelberg West residents including Betty Tydeman, pictured here, established the Buna Reserve Community Garden in Heidelberg West.

It is now a thriving garden where residents from a range of cultural and religious backgrounds grow their own fruit and vegetables in a friendly, supportive environment. It has also transformed a previously barren reserve into an attractive garden of plenty.

Cr Tom Melican, Ibbott Ward Rosanna Road and its use as the defacto missing link between the Eastern Freeway and Western Ring Road continues to be of critical concern for residents.

It is not designed to carry such a high volume of cars and large trucks 24-hours a day and is a nightmare for residents and a serious safety hazard for pedestrians and road users. Surrounding streets are now rat runs as motorists avoid the constant traffic jams on Rosanna Road.

Despite intensive lobbying and the

We have learnt valuable lessons, including the need to build narrower plots to make it easier, particularly for the elderly, to tend their crops.

The garden is managed by a community committee, largely comprising residents with the help of a part-time community garden co-ordinator.

I am now eager to see two other community gardens established, one in Bellfield next to the Community Centre and one in Heidelberg Heights next to the Scout Hall in Outhwaite Road.

suggestion of short term solutions, such as speed reductions and curfews, neither political party nor VicRoads are willing to take any action to increase safety and resident amenity. As a community we need to continue demanding an outcome and support whichever political party is willing to take this issue seriously and develop short, medium and long term solutions. It is not good enough to promise some action in 20 years. We need solutions now and I call on the political parties to provide a solution or risk losing community support.

Cr Jenny Mulholland, Griffin Ward Events, festivals and the arts enrich community life and I’m delighted that we have launched Banyule’s first permanent arts facility, Hatch Contemporary Arts Space (page 2). Hatch, which will host exhibitions, performances, workshops, residencies, satellite exhibitions and more, will foster creative expression and social connection through the arts, as well as celebrating our cultural diversity.

This Autumn we also launched our first seasonal event guide, The Little Banyule

Book of Things to Do and I hope you can join me in celebrating two special events, which promote an inclusive and supportive community.

IDAHO Day on 17 May raises awareness about the impact homophobia has on gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex and transgender communities. A morning tea will be held at 10.30am at our Ivanhoe Customer Service Centre. On 28 May at 10am, we celebrate National Reconciliation Week with a smoking and flag raising ceremony, also at our Ivanhoe centre. Please join me.

Cr Mark Di Pasquale

Cr Rick Garotti

Cr Tom Melican

Grimshaw Ward

Ibbott Ward

Cr Jenny Mulholland

Bakewell Ward

0402 846 845

0413 043 015

Griffin Ward

0481 002 299

rick.garotti@ banyule.vic.gov.au

tom.melican@ banyule.vic.gov.au

0413 986 912

mark.dipasquale@ banyule.vic.gov.au

jenny.mulholland@ banyule.vic.gov.au

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Improving the protection of large trees Council is proposing to improve the protection of large trees in Banyule.

A planning permit is currently required to remove or lop large trees in areas affected by a temporary tree protection control called the Vegetation Protection Overlay Schedule 5 (VPO5). Council is now proposing to make the VPO5 permanent.

The VPO5, which was introduced into the Banyule Planning Scheme in November 2010, protects trees by requiring a planning permit application to remove or lop trees over 12 metres high, and/or with a diameter of more than 40cm at 1.4m above the trunk base.

Planning applications for trees can be lodged online using Council’s EARTH system at www.banyule.vic.gov.au/earth The VPO5 is due to expire on 30 November 2013 and Council is proposing to improve this control and make it a permanent part of the Banyule Planning Scheme through Amendment C80.

The proposed Amendment affects residentially zoned properties in Bundoora, Greensborough, Watsonia, Watsonia North, Macleod,Yallambie, Viewbank, Rosanna, Heidelberg, Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West, Bellfield and Ivanhoe, as shown above right or in more detailed maps on our website.

We invite your comments The proposed amendment is on exhibition from Thursday 9 May 2013 until Thursday 13 June 2013 2013.

It can be viewed: • During office hours at our Rosanna, Greensborough and Ivanhoe Service Centres.

• On our website at www.banyule.vic.gov.au.

• At Planning Scheme Amendments Online www. dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/planningschemes/amendments-to-planning-schemes/amendmentsonline.

12m high and/or diameter of 40cm at 1.4m above the tree base

Unsure if this affects you? Want more information?

Contact Klover Kane in Strategic Planning on 9457 9830 or via strategic.planning@banyule.vic.gov.au Formal submissions to the amendment must be made in writing and received by Council no later than 5pm on Thursday 13 June 2013. Submissions must be clearly marked ‘Amendment C80’ and sent to: Klover Kane, Strategic Planner, Banyule City Council, PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079

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Improving tree health around your home Permeable paving on driveways or paths, which allows water and air into tree roots, is just one way you can improve the health of trees.

Supporting strong, healthy trees helps protect our urban environment by removing nitrogen and other pollution loads from stormwater.

The widespread use of impervious paving surfaces, such as concrete, around homes leads to trees missing out on precious rainwater, which runs off driveways and ends up in stormwater drains.

The permeable pavement below allows water to penetrate to the soil below.

In heavy downpours, excess stormwater is also more likely to flood drainage systems and overflow into local creeks and rivers taking litter and pollution with it.

This hostile growing environment, characterised by limited ground water and poor aeration, can lead to stunted growth and trees that are easily drought stressed and susceptible to pests and disease.

Another benefit of permeable driveways and pavements is that by allowing water infiltration and gaseous exchange, the underlying soil also provides an improved rooting environment similar to a natural soil surface.

Permeable pavements and driveways comprise a permeable surface layer, such as porous asphalt or concrete, or clay or concrete blocks, on top of an aggregate storage layer of crushed stone or gravel which stores water before it infiltrates to the underlying soil or is discharged towards a piped drainage system.

Bowling for 100 years The City of Heidelberg Bowling Club is celebrating its 100th birthday in August this year with a range of events including a Centenary Bowls Tournament and dinner.

The club’s genesis was on 18 August 1913 at a meeting in the Heidelberg Presbyterian Church Hall. John May, the founding President took the helm until 1949, apart from a break between 1917 and 1926.

In December 1914, a pavilion and four rink green was opened, with electricity, telephone, gas and sewerage connected between 1915 and 1922.

The club, which has 140 members, now has two synthetic greens, as well as a fourrink green in front of the clubhouse and an 8-rink green, opened in 1954, on the west of Stradbroke Avenue. Social bowls are played on Monday afternoon, Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon. More information: www.cityofheidelbergbowlingclub.com.au

Then and now: The Club, circa 1927, photo courtesy Heidelberg Historical Society, and today.

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Awarding youth work The work of Banyule Youth Engagement Officer Jessica Sayers in improving the health and wellbeing of young people has been recognised by the peak body for local government professionals in Victoria, LGPro. At the recent LGPro Awards for Excellence, Jessica, 27, who has worked in local government youth services for the past five years, was awarded a Young Achiever (Finalist) Special Commendation.

Banyule Chief Executive Officer, Simon McMillan, said Jessica was an exceptional young leader who was passionate about her work and a great asset to Banyule and its young people. “Jessica works tirelessly to improve the health and wellbeing of young people. She connects positively with young people, earning their trust and respect, and develops and energises positive community relationships,” he said.

Under Jessica’s leadership, participation in Council’s Street Art program has grown. Jessica works with participants, most of whom are disconnected and

disadvantaged, in planning, designing and delivering legal community murals, while supporting them and addressing their often complex needs.

Jessica also contributed to developing Council’s youth website - www.banyuleyouth.com - and youth Facebook page, and played a significant role in a number of youth projects, including an innovative mediation process between young people and traders in a local hotspot.

Jessica, who has a Diploma in Community Welfare, is currently completing her Bachelor Degree in Youth Work. She is pictured above with entrants in the Street Art Awards, which were held in March.

Be neighbourly, keep off the grass Banyule Council is cracking down on vehicles parked on nature strips in response to concerns raised by residents and shared by Council.

The Banyule wide blitz will improve pedestrian safety and reduce damage to nature strips and underground services, like drains and cabling, which are not designed to handle the weight of vehicles.

“It is illegal under State Government road rules and we have no discretion but to take action when parked cars create dangerous situations. Parking on nature strips can block sight of oncoming traffic making it more difficult for neighbours to exit their driveway safely,” the Mayor, Cr Wayne Phillips, said. “Pedestrian safety is also reduced, especially for children who are unable to see over or around vehicles parked in this way. For people who are mobility impaired and families with young children, vehicles parked on nature strips also cause accessibility issues.”

Cr Phillips said the repair bill for the damage to nature strips and underground services is picked up by the entire community.

The maximum fine for parking on nature strips is $85.

banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

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Tribute to visionary couple Heidelberg Historical Society is running an exhibition, Against the Forces, coinciding with the Centenary of Canberra and focusing on Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin’s contribution to Heidelberg.

The exhibition examines the life and work of this talented architect and his partner, Marion Mahony Griffin.

Many complain that Canberra is a lifeless place - “six suburbs in search of a city” - as Robert Menzies condemned it. According to the Historical Society, the Canberra we see today falls far short of the prizewinning plan the couple drew in 1911 and whose implementation was undermined by hostile politicians and the public service.

The Chicago-born couple’s plan was not only a breathtaking marriage of geometry to the natural landscape, but was also to have given expression to the workings of a democratic society.

Walter and Marion settled in Australia in 1914 and had a successful private practice in Australia and later India.

They were closely associated with Heidelberg, designing innovative houses, large and small, as well as idealistic

Exhibition curator and Heidelberg Historical Society member Steven Barlow. community plans featuring curved roads and shared open spaces in a battle to preserve the natural environment.

The Museum is located in the historic Old Heidelberg Court House in Jika Street near the main Burgundy Street shopping area. The exhibition is open on Sundays from 2pm to 5pm to the end of November 2013 or by appointment for groups of over 10. Admission is $5 per person, with children 12 and under free.

Contact: Heidelberg Historical Society 9455 2130.

Severe storms - are you ready?

Severe storms, which can be accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, hail, thunder and lightning, can happen anywhere and at any time of the year.

Even though storms can damage property, disrupt essential services and cause life threatening situations, many households are inadequately prepared.

Creating an Emergency Plan takes very little time and will help you prepare household members, safeguard property and protect personal items.

To help you develop your plan, both Red Cross and the Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) have

created comprehensive guides taking you through the process step-bystep.

For more information: • SES - www.ses.vic.gov.au or phone 9684 6666.

• Red Cross - www.redcross.org.au or phone 8327 7700.

If you or someone you care about has special needs, the Red Cross also has excellent emergency planning advice for people with a disability and their carers.

For more information, contact our Emergency Management team on 9490 4222.

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Homing in on increased access Council has established the Banyule Livable Housing Project to influence and promote accessible housing to better meet the changing needs of the community, particularly the aged, people with disabilities and families.

Cr Jenny Mulholland said the majority of houses being built are not meeting the needs of a large section of the population. “The inaccessible design of many new and existing homes restricts access for people with a disability, people who acquire an injury or experience limited mobility due to aging. Despite this, there are few regulatory requirements supporting the increased provision of accessible housing in Victoria,” she said.

Rosie Bray, 81, of Greensborough, pictured here with Cr Mulholland, is delighted with the planning changes.

Rosie modified her own home as she got older, including installing sliding doors. “It has made all the difference to me. It is a lot easier and I feel more confident.”

The Banyule Livable Housing project has established guidelines which will be implemented through the planning assessment process. This project will also include staff training and community education. This new approach started in April 2013 and will be reviewed in August 2013.

From April, changes to Banyule’s planning requirements incorporate a suite of features to ensure new homes better meet the current and future needs of the entire community including: • Families with young children - 15% of Banyule households include children 0-4 years of age.

• People who sustain a temporary injury limiting their mobility.

Granting access to Banyule’s resources Community groups are invited to apply for subsidy grants to assist them in hiring Banyule Council’s community centres, halls and venues, as well as its two community buses.

Council recognises that rental fees associated with their hire can sometimes limit opportunities for groups to access its facilities and resources.

• The ageing population - over 20% of Banyule’s population is aged over 60.

• People with a disability and their families approximately 20% of Banyule residents identify as having a disability.

Livable housing features improve new homes so that they are: • Easier to enter.

• Easier to navigate in and around.

• Designed to meet changing needs of residents who may experience a disability, injury or change in the family.

• Of increased value and easier to rent by providing a marketing edge and appealing to a broader demographic.

It is 22 times cheaper to incorporate basic livable design features into new housing than retrofitting them.

More information: www.banyule.vic.gov.au or call Council’s Access and Equity Social Planner on 9490 4310.

The Facility and Resource Subsidy Grants are provided to enable a balanced and equitable approach to providing subsidised access to all Council’s community resources.

Please note that these are not cash grants but a subsidy grant that will reduce your hire fee.

Grants open early June 2013, closing 30 August 2013.

For more information: www.banyule.vic.gov.au (Services for You - Grants) or contact the Community Hall and Buses booking line on 9490 4302.

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banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

Local libraries cook up feast of events MasterChef Julie Goodwin, pictured, is one of the many highlights of a jam-packed May-June events calendar at your local libraries.

Julie is the star attraction at a foodie gathering in Ivanhoe Library on Monday 6 May from 4.30pm-5.30pm. Meet Julie, who will also be signing and selling her cookbooks.

Other highlights on the events calendar include: award winning author Barry Dickins talking about his new book, writing life and artworks at Watsonia Library on Wednesday, 22 May from 7pm-8pm; and the launch of cartoonist Adam Wallace’s latest book - Better Out Than in Number Twos - at Rosanna Library on Wednesday, 29 May from 4pm-5pm.

Full events calendar at www.yprl.vic.gov.au

Kids: build a cardboard city Be creative and have heaps of fun building a cardboard city from used cardboard and other recycled items.

Build houses, shops, cars, rainwater tanks, train stations and even a whole community!

FREE family event.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Refreshments will be provided.

When: Sunday 19 May 2013 2pm-5pm Where:

WaterMarc Cultural Foyer between Main Street and Flintoff Street, Greensborough

New phone number for health centres The new appointment number for Banyule’s Maternal and Child Health Centres is 9457 9990.

Banyule’s network of 11 Maternal and Child Health Centres provides a range of services to support families.

They include developmental assessment, health education and promotion, parentingeducation, immunisation information, breast feeding support, post natal depression help and support, child safety information, and support for families in crisis.

Contact the service for an appointment on 9457 9990 or for more information visit www.banyule.vic.gov.au/mch

Bookings: Essential on 9490 4222

Join us today for events and news about your community

www.facebook.com/banyulecitycouncil

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Out and about in your parks New playgrounds Swinging, sliding, spinning and climbing is now even better for children at playgrounds in Greensborough,Yallambie and Viewbank.

As part of Council’s Playground Replacement Program, new play equipment has been installed at Greensborough War Memorial Park,Yallambie’s Streamline Reserve, and Viewbank’s Price Park.

Community consultation was undertaken prior to planning the new playgrounds, with many residents highlighting the need for new and adventurous play equipment.

Yallambie resident, Linda Price, is loving her new playground, taking her children, Oliver, 3, and Zoe, 15 months, nearly every day. “There is something here that is challenging for both of them,” she said. Oliver and Zoe are pictured on this page enjoying the new equipment.

Tree pruning and planting Council has a street tree pruning program, operating on a two-year cycle, which also addresses its obligations under the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2010 for street trees.

While residents can request Council to prune street trees near them, this will only be done outside of the two year cycle if trees pose a genuine safety risk. It is

against Council policy for residents to prune street trees and penalties apply when this occurs.

Council also has an annual street tree planting program, replacing 1,500 street trees each year. There are approximately 70,000 street trees across Banyule, which provide shelter, shade and wind protection, as well as creating a more attractive and liveable environment.

Recently many residents in Banyule received notices from their local electricity provider requesting the pruning of trees on their property with branches growing too close to overhead power lines. Trees that are on private property are the responsibility of the land owner and is therefore recommended that residents who have received such a notice make arrangements to prune their trees by contacting a professional tree care company.

Help stamp out dumping Dumping of domestic and commercial rubbish in the parks and streets of Banyule is on the increase.

Dumping increases costs to Council, creates unsightly areas and can cause physical and environmental hazards.

If you see people dumping rubbish, we encourage you to report it to us, if possible taking note of the registration number of any vehicles involved, on 9490 4222 or online at www.banyule.vic.gov.au.

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banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

Flu vaccinations

Business networking seminar

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an epidemic disease causing widespread illness every year.

Annual flu vaccination is recommended for the general population (from 6 months to adulthood) to reduce the likelihood of contracting flu.

Flu immunisation is recommended - and free - for people in known high risk groups. People in high risk groups include those over 65, hospital patients and staff, some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women, residents in nursing homes or other care facilities, severe asthmatics and anyone with a chronic illness.

Immunisation is also recommended for people who can put vulnerable people at risk of infection.

For more information about vaccination talk to your local GP or visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au.

Learn the art of effective networking at our fun, friendly and interactive session, which is being held in collaboration with Small Business Victoria.

This event is ideal for any business owner wanting to widen their circle of business contacts and will show you how to create your 30-second “elevator� pitch, as well as creating instant rapport with anyone, using networking events strategically, and much more.

Date: Tuesday 21 May Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm Venue: Meeting Room Two (Level One), Watermarc,

1 Flintoff Street, Greensborough Cost:

$20 per registration

Register online: www.banyulebusiness.com.au

Community Calendar - Events 8pm (matinees 2pm, 5 and 12 May) 2pm and 7.30pm 2 May - 18 May 25 May Heidelberg Theatre Company Heidelberg Choral Society

10am - 11.30am 26 May Dimensions of Wellness

August: Osage County by Tracy Letts Multiple prize winning saga set in MidWest America - funny and bitingly sad.

The Society and Box Hill Chorale will present a selection of opera's most stirring and uplifting choruses and arias.

Tammy Boatman, Olivia Newton-John Wellness Centre, speaks about aspects of wellness. Panel with questions.

36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna Book www.htc.org.au or 9457 4117

Ivanhoe Girls Grammar Performing Arts Centre, www.hcs.asn.au for ticket prices

Rosanna Baptist Church, Cnr Waiora Rd and Churchill St, Heidelberg Heights

11am, 7 May and 4 June Banyule View Club

8pm, 29 June and 2.30pm 30 June Heidelberg Symphony Orchestra

8pm - 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13 July Diamond Valley Singers

7 May - Market Day Stall 4 June - Bill Robinson, travelogue talk

Trumpet Glory, with guest artist Tristram Williams on trumpet.

The Pirates of Penzance - famous songs from this Gilbert and Sullivan classic. www.dvsingers.org

Greensborough RSL Main St, Greensborough Tel: 9439 9965

More info and tickets at www.heidelbergsymphony.com.au

Warrandyte High School Theatre 9439 7843 www.trybooking.com/CQEO

Strength and Mobility Classes Thursdays, 10.30am-11.30am

Rosanna Weight Loss Achievers Each Wed, 6.15pm - 7.30pm

2pm, 30 June Musical Kaleidoscope

Gold Card holders covered by DVA, otherwise $5 per session.

Watsonia RSL.

Not for profit group meeting in Community Room, Watsonia Library.

Advice and support to members.

Works by Mozart, Beethoven, Dvorak and Smetana. Rosanna Uniting Church, Arden Crescent. Bookings, information 9459 2595.

banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222

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Looking like a muffin top?

We can help you get in shape for less than your daily coffee!

Join us for less than $2.70* a day

You get so much more at your local Banyule Council leisure centre.

Compare and be amazed!

We help you reach your fitness goals whatever shape you are in, with: • individual assessments • fully equipped gym - cardio and strength equipment • group fitness classes • swimming, spa and sauna. * Full gym memberships (12 month package) equate to the low daily rate of approximately:

Ivanhoe Olympic

Adult

Concession

Teen/60+

$2.67 $1.97

$1.86 $1.38

$1.60 $1.09

Call for a FREE tour!

Ivanhoe Aquatic & Fitness Centre 170 Waterdale Rd, Ivanhoe Call 9490 7111 Olympic Leisure Centre 15 Alamein Rd, Heidelberg Call 9459 1193 Mention this ad when you join for a free gift!

How to contact your Council For all enquires please call

9490 4222 Fax: 9499 9475 Email: enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au Website: www.banyule.vic.gov.au If your hearing or speech is impaired, you can call us through the National Relay Service on 133 677 (TTY) or 1300 555 727 (ordinary handset) and ask for 9490 4222.

All correspondence to: PO Box 51 Ivanhoe 3079 Council Service Centres: Ivanhoe - 275 Upper Heidelberg Road Rosanna - 44 Turnham Avenue Greensborough - 9-13 Flintoff Street All offices are open: Monday to Friday 8.30am-5pm Rosanna - Wednesday night until 7pm Greensborough - Saturday 9am-noon The Banner is produced by Banyule City Council. For July/August community event listings, pick up a form at any service centre or email eventslisting @ banyule.vic.gov.au by 31 May 2013.

Rates reminder If you have recently been granted a Pension by Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and have not applied for the Pensioner Rebate, please complete an application form at either: • www.banyule.vic.gov.au or • one of Council’s three Service Centres (Greensborough, Ivanhoe or Rosanna) by 30 June 2013.

The maximum rebate for 2012-2013 is $198.