Greater Bendigo Magazine November 2013

Greater Bendigo

November 2013

magazine

It’s time to hit the O’Keefe Trail!

Page 15-17

inside

Barry Lyons our new Mayor page 3

Be fire ready this summer page 4

Summer in the Parks page 32

Contents 4

It’s time to clean up, fire season’s nearly here

5

Recharge and ride

Look out for algal blooms

6

itizen of the Year - Nominate someone C who makes you proud

Secure safety barriers for a safer pool or spa

7

New Huntly sign a work of art

8

Showcasing Harvey Town’s history

9

ork on new Community Theatre W underway

10

xcitement builds as work hits overdrive E on New Generation Library

11

New Gallery spaces taking shape

12

$3.8M redevelopment of Mitchell Street

13

What’s in the works?

14

ide on - residents welcome new shared R creek path

15

It’s time to hit the Trail!

18

Pools open for summer

20

Sports facility upgrades on the way

21 Canterbury Park Sports Precinct 22

Heathcote Skate Park hub now open

23 New facilities for Huntly Equine Centre

New stat-of-the-art PA system for QEO

24 Getting around Greater Bendigo in the future 25 Master plan underway for Rosalind Park Recreation Reserve 26 Structure planning for Maiden Gully

revor Budge joins City as Strategy T Manager

27

Residential Strategy Plans for growth

ouncil backs Loddon Mallee South C Regional Growth Plan

28 Are you a responsible pet owner?

29 Services relocate to provide a one-stopshop 30 Showcasing our local manufacturing and mining industries

Cr Lisa Ruffell reflects on her time as Mayor With the end of October marking the first anniversary of the new Council it is timely to look at what we have achieved.

Greater Bendigo is a rapidly growing municipality and much of the work we do involves responding to the challenges that arise from more people wanting to make our region their home.

Council has been proactively planning for the long-term through projects such as the Residential Strategy and the Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy – Connecting Greater Bendigo. These strategies are looking at where people live, work and visit; how freight moves around; and how we can ensure that growth in our city strongly aligns with improved transport connections.

Over the past year, Council has continued to invest heavily in ‘grassroots’ infrastructure such as roads, drains and footpaths. The Budget for 2013-2014 strikes the right balance with a big focus on capital works, including $15.3M for roads, over $5M for drains and $1.1M for footpaths, while also funding the many and varied services that we provide. Progress has been made on the new generation Bendigo Library and the expansion of the Bendigo Art Gallery and work is underway on the Community Theatre project. The Library and Art Gallery will open next year.

We have met with senior State and Federal politicians to campaign for changes to the controversial Local Authorities Superannuation Fund Defined Benefits Plan that is limiting our capacity to deliver services and build infrastructure for our growing population

L-R: CEO Craig Niemann, Cr Lisa Ruffell, Governor of Victoria His Excellency the Honourable Alex Chernov AC QC and Mrs Elizabeth Chernov.

(for more details on this read Page 34).

Earlier this year we commissioned an Independent Review of the City of Greater Bendigo to see what improvements can be made. The Review was completed at the end of June this year – on time and on budget. It includes 69 recommendations that have been widely supported by the Chief Executive Officer who, together with Council, will oversee implementation.

We are delivering on our commitment to engage more effectively with our community. Regular ward meetings are being held and Councillors are attending ‘listening posts’ and public meetings across the municipality. I have also opened the Mayor’s Office once a month to enable residents to raise issues directly with me without having to first make appointment. The City has launched a new community engagement calendar at

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay and our advertisements have been tailored to highlight opportunities for residents to have their say.

The past year has also given me an opportunity to attend many community functions and to meet many interesting people. One of the many highlights was hosting the visit by the Governor of Victoria His Excellency the Honourable Alex Chernov AC QC and Mrs Elizabeth Chernov.

With my term as Mayor over, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Greater Bendigo community for their wonderful support over the past year. It has been a genuine honour and privilege to serve you.

Cr Lisa Ruffell

The new Bushmaster Court

31 Bendigo Launches Australia’s first Cycling Manky 32

Get set for Summer in the Parks

ncient Greece is coming to Bendigo in A 2014

33 Bendigo Visitor Centre now a myki outlet

New phone app promotes Bendigo region

Grab a Dining & Shopping Guide

34

Questions answered about super liability

35 Council furniture returned to former glory 36 Get your Council news from the source

On the cover Friends of the Bendigo Kilmore Rail Trail members Steve Boswell, Ken Hanson, Garry Long, Rob Nelson, Rick Thorn and Les Lewis share the trail with runner Sam Gibbs.

Be our eyes and ears The City is appealing to residents to be Greater Bendigo’s eyes and ears.

Chief Executive Officer Craig Niemann said at 3,000 square kilometres in size, the Greater Bendigo municipality is a large and diverse mixture of both urban and rural areas.

“We have a huge area of public land to look after and it would be impossible for City staff to know about everything that needs attention so we are asking residents who might hear about or notice a problem to notify us so that it can be dealt with.

“We can’t do much if we don’t know about it and we often don’t know about it until someone tells us so we

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are basically asking the community to be our eyes and ears,” said Mr Niemann.

He said when someone phones the City to make a request or raise an issue they will speak directly to a customer support consultant who will log their request into the City’s Customer Request System.

Requests are monitored, ensuring they are attended to promptly and provide you with time frames for a response.

All requests are processed and replied to within 10 working days - if not, you will be advised why there is a delay and when to expect a response.

Contact us

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/ ContactUs Office locations 195-229 Lyttleton Terrace Bendigo 125 High Street, Heathcote Postal address PO Box 733, BENDIGO VIC 3552 Telephone 03 5434 6000 Fax 03 5434 6200 requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au If you are hearing or speech impaired you can call us via the National Relay Service on 133 677 Operating hours Mon-Fri: 8.30am - 5pm.

Heathcote closed 12.30pm - 1.30pm

Barry Lyons elected Mayor Lockwood Ward Councillor Barry Lyons is our new Mayor.

“It is an enormous privilege to be elected to this role by my fellow Councillors and I look forward to us working together to deliver great outcomes for our community over the next 12 months,” Cr Lyons said.

“We should aspire to be the best regional city in Australia and the decisions we make over the next year will help to shape our success in this regard.”

During his inaugural speech as Mayor, Cr Lyons flagged his continued support for significant investments in roads, drains and footpaths and described population growth as a good challenge to have.

“This year, I will be lobbying hard for funding for the proposed Kangaroo Flat Aquatic and Wellbeing Centre and for the redevelopment of Bendigo Airport, including a larger and stronger runway capable of handling a more diverse range of aircraft,” he said.

“The State Government has given us substantial funds for the airport project and I am very keen to see a funding commitment from Canberra.

“These projects will help us to achieve our aspiration to be the best regional city in Australia with each generating economic benefits, not just for Bendigo, but for the whole region.”

Cr Lyons is a retired businessman. He moved to Kangaroo Flat in 1981 and established strong links with the local community.

He was first elected to represent the City of Greater Bendigo as the Kangaroo Flat Ward Councillor in 2008. He was returned as one of three Councillors to represent the newly formed Lockwood Ward in 2012. He also served as a Councillor with the former Shire of Romsey in the 1970s.

A family man, he is married to Betty and has five children and ten grandchildren. He is well known as the former licensee of Kangaroo Flat’s Windermere Hotel, a family business he owned and operated for 23 years.

Cr Lyons is a long-term supporter and sponsor of local sport, including Kangaroo Flat Football/ Netball and Cricket Clubs. He served as President of the Kangaroo Flat Lions Club and as a board member of the Kangaroo Flat Community Health Centre. He is interested in all areas of local government and his personal interests include breeding horses.

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It’s time to clean up, fire season’s nearly here It is time to take action and reduce the risk of fire on your property this summer.

Protect your life and property against fire by: • Looking around your property for any potential fire risk • Removing fallen branches, rubbish and leaf litter • Cutting long grass • Reminding neighbours to do the same

or offer assistance if they are unable to Property owners whose properties are considered to be a potential fire risk will be issued with a Fire Prevention Notice.

Failure to comply with the Notice will result in the City removing the risk and invoicing the property owner for the work.

For more information go to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/fire

Is your property number easy to find in an emergency?

Property numbers can be hard to spot, especially in an emergency, so all property owners are reminded to clearly number their homes or businesses.

“Emergency services can be called to any number of critical incidents in rural and urban areas, so a clearly marked property number will help ensure a prompt response from emergency personnel,” Emergency Management Coordinator Karen Marini said.

“All property owners have a responsibility under local law to ensure their house or business number is clearly displayed. Rural property owners should also consider how far their

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gateway is from the road and make sure the numbers are large enough to be seen.”

Ideally, property numbers should also be placed under an outdoor light so they can be seen of a night time.

“Property numbers on a fence or painted onto a gutter are another great way of clearly numbering a home or business,” CFA Operations Officer Craig Brittain said.

If property owners do not know the address of their property, or if one has not been allocated, they should contact the City’s Customer Service Centre on 5434 6000.

Recharge and ride The City has expanded its network of scooter and electric wheelchair recharge points across the municipality, taking the total number to 14.

The five newest recharge points are located at: the UFS Pharmacy in View Street; Bendigo Railway Station; Bendigo TAFE City Campus, Bendigo Prince of

Wales Showgrounds; and MatchWorks

their motorised vehicles,” Cr Ruffell said.

Cr Lisa Ruffell said the additional recharge points would provide scooter and electric wheelchair users with greater peace of mind.

“I would encourage any publicly accessible businesses interested in installing a recharge point to contact Rural Access, because it is a great way for them to provide a wonderful service that benefits a number of residents and visitors to Bendigo.”

“For those with limited mobility, it is important to know they can venture around the municipality without fear of losing power to

Recharge points include: • Bendigo Library – Hargreaves St, Bendigo (currently unavailable due to renovations) • Kangaroo Flat Library – 267 High St, Kangaroo Flat • Heathcote Visitor Information Centre – Cnr High and Barracks St, Heathcote • Bendigo UFS, Hargreaves Street Pharmacy – 379 Hargreaves St, Bendigo • Bendigo Bank – Fountain Court Arcade (near lifts) – Cnr High & Mitchell St, Bendigo • Bendigo Marketplace (located on column near Dick Smiths Electronics) - 37 Garsed St, Bendigo

• New Victoria Hotel – 48 High St, Eaglehawk • Kangaroo Flat Community House - 21 Woolcock Ave, Kangaroo Flat • Long Gully Neighbourhood Centre - 52-54 Derwent Drive, Long Gully • Bendigo Prince of Wales Showgrounds – (located in Holmes Rd, North Bendigo • Bendigo Railway Station (located inside, opposite the café) – Railway Pl, Bendigo • Bendigo TAFE, City Campus (located in Building P, Library) – McCrae St, Bendigo (Access via Gate 9) • MatchWorks - 34 Pall Mall, Bendigo

Cr Rod Campbell charges up at the recharge point located at the entrance to the City of Greater Bendigo’s Lyttleton Terrace office.

Look out for algal blooms Summer is a great time to visit Greater Bendigo’s popular lakes and waterways, but hot and still weather conditions also provide the perfect breeding ground for bluegreen algae.

Algal blooms occur naturally and can be present in water that appears discoloured, has a musty smell or a scum across the surface.

There may also be no obvious signs.

Blue-green algae can be dangerous to humans and animals, so direct contact with the water is not advised, however activities like boating, fishing and sightseeing can still be enjoyed. Dogs and other domestic animals should be kept on a lead.

Characteristic signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose or, if swallowed, nausea and vomiting.

For more information on algal blooms visit www.oem.vic.gov.au/AlgalBlooms

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Citizen of the Year - Nominate someone who makes you proud Do you know someone who has made an outstanding commitment to our community in arts and culture, business development, the environment, humanitarian activities, science and technology or sport and recreation and who makes you proud?

If so, why not nominate them for the 2014 City of Greater Bendigo Citizen or Young Citizen of the Year Awards.

Linda Beilharz said it was a welcome surprise to be named as the 2013 Citizen of the Year.

“I would encourage people to look around them and consider who might be a worthy recipient of next year’s Citizen or Young Citizen of the Year Award,” Ms Beilharz said.

“I have enjoyed sharing my story with various groups throughout the year and made the most of the opportunity to inspire others to celebrate all that is great about being a citizen of Greater Bendigo.”

Nominations for the 2014 Awards close at 5pm on Friday, November 30, 2013.

Nominees for the Young Citizen of the Year Award must be under 25 years of age on January 26, 2013.

Nomination forms are available from: • City of Greater Bendigo offices in Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo and High Street, Heathcote; • local libraries; • local neighbourhood houses; or • online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

Cr Lisa Ruffell and 2013 Citizen of the Year Linda Beilharz.

Secure safety barriers make for a safer pool or spa The City is reminding all swimming pool and spa owners about the importance of being safe around water.

Nationally last year 19 children under the age of five drowned in a swimming pool. In half of these cases the pools were either completely unfenced or had unlocked gates.

Municipal Building Surveyor Hans Tracksdorf said any pool or spa, including a temporary inflatable or wading-style pool, required a fence.

“Any pool or spa capable of holding more than 300mm of water must have a childproof safety barrier installed around it and be regularly maintained.

Even do-it-yourself aboveground pools must have appropriate fencing,” Mr Tracksdorf said.

“Apart from the tragic consequences of someone drowning in a pool, property owners risk a $6000 fine if they do not have a lawful barrier for

their swimming pool or spa or that is safe and secure.

“City staff are often alerted to backyard pools that are unfenced and can confirm the details through an aerial photo database that verifies pool and spa construction dates.

“Before the hot weather sets in, use this time to conduct a lifesaving safety check of your pool or spa fence to make sure it does not pose a danger to your family or visitors this summer.

“If you are considering installing a pool this summer, or want to ensure your safety barriers meet the appropriate requirements, visit www. bendigo.vic.gov.au/noticeboard or phone 5434 6000 to speak to one of the City’s building inspectors.”

The Australian Institute of Building Surveyors has released a list of top five issues that can affect pool or spa safety barriers:

1. G ates and doors that are not self-closing If a safety barrier’s gate is no longer self-closing, it is not compliant with Australian Standards. This may also be the case with doors that are able to be used as part of safety barriers and were installed prior to 2010.

2. G ates and doors that are no longer self-latching Wear and tear of a locking mechanism can affect a door or gate’s ability to self-latch when closed.

3. Gates propped open Gates can be propped open if people are going in and out of the pool or spa area, so can allow unsupervised children access to the water.

4. Ground movement Ground movement can cause a safety barrier or gate to shift or separate and no longer work properly, making way for gaps under or in the barrier for children to slip through.

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5. Objects to climb on Make sure there are no climbable objects, such as barbeques or planter boxes, bordering your pool fence or that of neighbouring

properties that would enable children to climb the fence and gain access to a pool or spa or a backyard with a pool or spa.

Cr Ruffell with artist artist Yvonne George and students from Huntly Primary School at the unveiling of the Whirrakee Wattle sign.

New Huntly sign a work of art A new sculptural sign which proudly declares Huntly as the home of the Whirrakee Wattle was been installed on the Midland Highway.

Whirrakee Wattle is virtually unique to the Bendigo region with the largest population of the wattle located in the forests surrounding the Huntly area.

The wattle is a true feature and important part of the Huntly district’s identity and the local community wanted this fact to be prominently recognised so they approached the City with their request.

Well-known local artist Yvonne George was contracted by the City of Greater Bendigo to create the new steel sign which

was fabricated in Bendigo and features bright golden wattle blooms created from yellow zinc coated steel.

At six metres in length and five metres high this impressive new artwork is set to become an iconic Huntly landmark.

Local groups such as the Northern Bendigo Landcare

Group have worked hard to secure the future of Huntly’s distinctive wattle by collecting and providing seeds and propagation tips to the public.

The group also runs a Junior Landcare Program with the Huntly Primary School where students are taught to propagate and raise Whirrakee Wattles.

The new signage is simply the next step in this community movement to acknowledge the importance of the wattle to the district and is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to ensure communities like Huntly have their say on the issues that matter to them.

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Cr Peter Cox (centre) and Harvey Town residents Lar Eiffe and John Oates.

Showcasing Harvey Town’s history The City has worked with local residents to develop and install a series of nine interpretive signs showcasing the history and buildings of one of Greater Bendigo’s most historic residential areas – Harvey Town.

Although not officially recognised as a Victorian town, the Harvey Town area is centred around the area of Clarke and James Street in Eaglehawk and is popular with sightseers and history buffs.

In its hey days, Harvey Town boasted a population of 3,000 people along with a church, general store, baker, butcher, blacksmith and a hotel called the Lady Barkly.

The area was one of the earliest settlements to be established following the discovery of gold in 1851. It was first known as Dead Horse Reef, followed by Dead Horse Gully, Wellington Gully and

finally Harvey Town after two Cornish born brothers Thomas and Richard Harvey.

The Harvey brothers were stonemasons and were responsible for building at least five stone cottages in the early 1870s along Clarke Street and James Street. The brothers were hardworking and popular and the village became known as Harvey Town in 1895 in recognition of the two men who literally built the town.

The Harvey brothers built homes in the ‘rubble masonary’ style using layers of large irregular shaped stones.

While most of the old buildings from the town’s hey days no longer exist some of the Harvey brother built cottages still remain as do remnants from the area’s gold mining past.

The City worked closely with residents of the area to develop the signs and provided $15,000 for the project.

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Building a Greater Bendigo

Work on new Community Theatre underway Concept: Bendigo Community Theatre.

Works transforming the old Bendigo Gaol into a $25.8M state-of-the-art community theatre have commenced and are due for completion in late 2014.

The project will deliver a new two-tier 1,000seat theatre featuring a fully equipped fly tower, music, dance and drama studios, learning kitchens, general learning areas and an outdoor alfresco area for Bendigo Senior Secondary College students.

A joint use agreement has been signed between the State Government, Bendigo

Senior Secondary College and the City. As a result, the new complex will be available for use by local education, arts, entertainment, tourism and other business sectors.

The construction is being managed through a joint-venture relationship with the City and the Department of Education, who awarded the building contract to Contract Control Services.

Once construction is completed, management of the theatre will be assumed by the City.

A public open day at the Gaol site in March 2013 was very successful with some 8,000 people taking advantage of the opportunity to tour the old gaol and learn more about the theatre project. A public naming process for the Theatre is currently underway.

Historic staircase unveiled Works associated with the new Bendigo Community Theatre project at the old Bendigo Gaol have uncovered an historic spiral staircase, linking the existing central hall to an old unlined tunnel. The tunnel was reportedly used to transport food from the basement kitchen to inmates in the early days of the gaol’s operations.

HM Prison Bendigo (H1550) is one of Victoria’s earliest gaols and was once the oldest operating gaol in the State.

Workers on the $25.8M project to transform the 150-year-old prison recently uncovered the stairs as they jack hammered through a concrete floor.

It is presumed that prisoners’ meals were brought up the stairs around the 1864-1871

L to R: Member for Northern Victoria Damian Drum, Planning Minister Matthew Guy and Deputy Premier and Minister for and Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan.

period when prisoners were required to eat meals in their own cells.

This was during the period of the ‘separate system’ which prevented any contact whatsoever between prisoners.

During this time prisoners spent 23 hours a day in their own cell

and had one hour of supervised physical exercise in the open yards, also separated from other prisoners. When being escorted from cell to yard and back again the inmates were made to wear a mask to prevent recognition by others and were referred to only by number.

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On track: Library Re-development site manager Adrian Hall (Contract Contol Services) and the City’s Project Director Marg Allan discuss the progress of works.

Excitement builds as work hits overdrive on New Generation Library Excitement is building as work on the new generation Bendigo Library hits overdrive in preparation for next year’s grand opening.

Construction is on time and Project Director Marg Allan says the redeveloped library will be a facility for the whole community to enjoy.

“Bendigo’s new generation library will provide a wonderful environment in which to read, learn, socialise, play and even enjoy a coffee,” Ms Allan said.

A temporary library has been operating out of the former Bendigo Advertiser building in Pall Mall for the past year.

The City anticipates that library services will not be available for around three weeks to allow the transfer of books and equipment to occur This service will be temporarily unavailable from mid-December to midJanuary to enable books and equipment to be transferred back to the site once the works are completed.

“The City anticipates that library services will not be available for around three weeks to allow the transfer of books and equipment to occur,” Ms Allan said.

“Planning is already underway to ensure that this work can be done with minimum disruption to the thousands of people who use the library services in the CBD. “Library services will remain at Kangaroo Flat and Eaglehawk during this time.”

The City will provide further updates on how the works are progressing and the timelines for recanting in the coming weeks and months.

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The project has received $2M from the State Government’s Local Government Infrastructure Program and $750,000 from the State Government’s Living Library Program.

Fast fact

On average, Bendigo library services have recorded over half a million visits every year for the past five years.

New Gallery spaces taking shape

Above: Bendigo Art Gallery expansion works.

Right: Concept - Bendigo Art Gallery.

Work on the $8.4M expansion of the Bendigo Art Gallery is well advanced with most construction work now completed and the internal fit-out well underway.

Once completed, the gallery will feature a new ‘Park Gallery’ exhibition area, complete with open and flexible major exhibition spaces and a new multi-purpose ‘Pavilion Gallery’.

A glazed link walkway will separate the galleries. The project also includes new back-of-house loading dock and storage, and enhancements to the reception and gallery shop area.

Bendigo Art Gallery is arguably regional Australia’s most successful gallery and this major expansion will ensure it continues to hold this competitive advantage.

The project has been funded by $3.775M from the State Government’s Regional Development Victoria program, $3.625M from the City and $1M from Bendigo Art Gallery Company Board (from philanthropic sources).

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$3.8M redevelopment of Mitchell Street Mitchell Street is undergoing a $3.8M redevelopment. The busy thoroughfare is worn out and in desperate need of a complete road re-construction between Pall Mall and Queen Street.

The $3.8M project is seeing the road pavement completely re-built, new underground drainage and services installed and footpaths widened where possible, paved and reconstructed.

Traders have been consulted and will be kept informed on how works are progressing and the types of impacts they can expect week-to-week. A site office has also been set up at 34 Mitchell Street and traders are encouraged to visit there if they have any concerns.

Throughout the project, access to shops will be maintained. One lane for each

direction of traffic in Mitchell Street and access to intersecting streets will generally be maintained during normal working hours.

The streetscape works have been divided into three sections to limit the extent of shops directly impacted at any one time: • Section 1 – Pall Mall to Hargreaves Street • Section 2 – Hargreaves / Mitchell Street intersection (including works in Hargreaves Street) • Section 3 – Hargreaves Street to Queen Street.

Works commenced on Section 1 at the beginning of October and include: • Removal of the median island between

Pall Mall and Hargreaves Street • Replacement of existing drainage pipes on both sides of Mitchell Street up to and including Hargreaves Street • Replacement of existing kerb and channel on both sides of Mitchell Street • Replacement of existing footpaths on both sides of Mitchell Street Section 1 works have been programmed to ensure that any pedestrian areas that have been affected by the works are reinstated or completed by December 1 in time for the Christmas shopping period.

Multiple crews are being used to ensure that a continuous flow of work occurs and disruptions to individual shops are minimised during normal working hours.

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Crews are generally operating on a six day working week and will also use Sundays where the work we are doing is likely to cause significant disruptions.

No work will occur between December 1 2013 and January 27 2014. It is expected that Section 1 works will continue following this break and further advice on the timing of Sections 2 and 3 will be given when we get closer to their commencement.

Work will also be suspended in the days leading up to and including Easter.

To keep up-to-date with how works are progressing go to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/mitchellstreet

What’s in the works?

As part of Council’s commitment to deliver improved infrastructure, a range of works are currently underway or have recently been completed.

A $300,000 road pavement reconstruction of Lansell Street, Kangaroo Flat includes new kerb, pavement and drainage.

The $1M Harley Street drainage project is the final stage of a multi stage project that commenced over 3 years ago to address residential flooding in the area from intense storms.

Replacement of deteriorated ashphalt footpath surfacing in Carpenter Street with a new concrete path on the east side of Carpenter Street valued at $80,000.

Other works underway or completed: • Intersection of Harley & Butcher Streets, Kennington – Footpath project • Rathbones Lane, Maiden Gully – Drainage upgrade • View/Rowan Streets, Bendigo – Drainage upgrade – works to recommence in December • Retaining wall restoration works – Bendigo Creek Road safety works in Mandurang / Sedgwick Road valued at $150,000 include the sealing of the road shoulders to address the crash history along this road.

This road carries a large number of cyclists who will now be able to travel more safety inside the sealed shoulders.

For more information go to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/roadworks

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Ride on – residents welcome new shared creek path Residents are thrilled with the extension of the Back Creek-Spring Gully Creek shared path.

The project brought much joy to the Flanagan-Smith family, who taught four-year-old Tara to ride a push bike along the path.

Tara’s mother Claire Flanagan-Smith said the path was a great recreational asset for residents.

“The path has been a wonderful, safe place for us to teach our children to ride their bikes,” Ms Flanagan-Smith said.

“It’s not only us making the most of it, recreational joggers, teenagers, the elderly out for a walk and other families are also enjoying the extended path.”

The path has been progressed in stages and will ultimately link the Spring Gully Recreation Reserve with the Bendigo Linear Trail and the recreation facilities along the Bendigo Creek. The next stage to be completed this financial year will connect Miller Street and Williamson Street.

Tara leads the family on their ride along the extended Back Creek-Spring Gully Creek shared path.

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Cover story

It’s time to hit the Trail!

The new pedestrian / cyclist bridge over the Campaspe River, Axedale.

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Calling on everyone who loves a good walk, run or bike ride The O’Keefe Rail Trail is a fantastic walking and cycling path that follows the old Bendigo to Heathcote railway line and currently runs from Napier Street (Midland Highway) Bendigo to Cemetery Road Axedale – a total distance of 19kms.

The trail is perfect for walking, running and cycling because of its easy grade, its sandy gravel surface and its low creek crossings.

It takes about five-and-a-half hours to walk or three hours to cycle one way at a leisurely pace.

While travelling on the trail you can take in several points of interest including the Axe Creek Suspension Bridge, the Bendigo Field Naturalists Club Flora Reserve, the Axedale Flora and Fauna Reserve, Axedale Cemetery and former railway sidings at Longlea and Junortoun.

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Greater Bendigo’s perfect weather provides a great opportunity to try out the trail so why not throw on your best walking or running shoes or jump on your bike and hit the trail now!

Work continues on extension A $3.2M project to extend the O’Keefe Rail Trail by a further 24km from Axedale to Heathcote is currently underway thanks to a $1.9 million grant from the State Government’s Regional Infrastructure Development Fund and a $1.3M contribution from the City of Greater Bendigo.

This 24km extension will increase the trail’s length to a total of 43kms and will provide further recreational and tourism opportunities for the region.

The project includes construction of a compacted 2.5 metre wide track and six bridges as well as the installation of fencing, gate assemblies and interpretive/directional signage.

Works on the O’Keefe Rail Trail have been progressing from both the Bendigo and Heathcote end of the project.

A new, three span, 48 metre long concrete bridge was recently constructed downstream of the McIvor Highway bridge at Axedale. The bridge was designed to withstand any major flows as a result of flooding and will provide a safe river crossing for both pedestrians and cyclists.

The City also has plans to construct an underpass of the McIvor Highway on the Axedale side of the Campaspe River so that users of the rail trail will no

Works continue of the Trail extension at the old Axdale Racecourse.

longer have to cross the busy highway in Axedale.

The underpass will provide a link between the existing path works and the new bridge. This will provide a safe connection along the western bank of the river for all users of the river reserve.

Other recent works on the O’Keefe Rail Trail have included completion of both

A trail for all seasons Anytime is the perfect time to discover the O’Keefe Rail Trail according to Garry Long from the Friends of the Bendigo Kilmore Rail Trail.

“I think once people try it they will love it and all that it offers. Users can expect to see some fantastic wild flowers, local fauna and some historic railways relics along the trail.

“Whether you choose to walk just a small section of the trail or its entire length you won’t be disappointed,” said Garry.

“I’m excited about the trail being extended to Heathcote. It’s going to open up a whole range of new opportunities for locals and tourists alike.

“The Friends Group has worked closely with staff from the City on the project and I congratulate the Council for

Caring for the Rail Trail:

their commitment to the trail and for recognising the many benefits that the extended trail will provide in the future.

“When complete the trail will be a significant cycling and walking trail with the capacity to attract many visitors to the region. It will also enhance existing tourism infrastructure by providing a major tourism rail trail product that compares with other significant Australian trails such as the Murray to Mountain and Great Victorian Rail Trails in Victoria and the Riesling Rail Trail in South Australia.

“The trail will also complement other existing trails in the region such as the Wombat Forest Trails and The Goldfields Track which links Ballarat to Bendigo,” said Garry.

asphalt and gravel paths from Pink Cliffs Road to Speed Street in the Heathcote township.

The City has also worked closely with the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail who have installed new station signage at former station sites and undertaken works to reinstate part of the Axedale Racecourse Railway platform.

Planning is now focussing on the west of Heathcote through the One-Eye Forest and beyond. The former rail reserve through this area has changed over time with some of the land now crown land, some road reserve and some in private freehold. The City is now working with the owners and managers of the land in regard to access along the former rail reserve.

A bit of history The O’Keefe Rail Trail takes its name from Andrew O’Keefe the man who won the tender to construct the Bendigo/Heathcote rail line which opened in 1888.

The Bendigo/Heathcote rail line closed in 1958 when the last passenger service, a T-Class Locomotive made its final journey.

In 1968 the Australian Railway Historical Society coordinated an historic event which was to be the last time a train would ever travel along the track before the line was dismantled and removed in the 1970’s.

The demise of the Bendigo/ Heathcote line can be attributed

Plants and animals on the O’Keefe Rail Trail are protected and users are asked to ensure that they care for trail by: • Keeping to the tracks provided • Taking all rubbish home • Placing your garden rubbish in your compost bin and not on the trail

to a number of factors including the steady decline in the demand for timber, the gradual closing of Bendigo’s deep lead mines, the working out of local forests of timber resources over time and a plan to build Eppalock Weir which would result in part of the line being flooded when the lake was full.

The construction of the Rail Trail began in the early 1990s and was partly completed by land and environment action programs (LEAP), a former federal government youth employment program.

Participants of LEAP suggested that the rail trail be named the O’Keefe Rail Trail thereby recognizing Andrew O’Keefe.

• Leaving dead timber where it has fallen, as it is the food for many invertebrates and maybe a lizard or two • Admire or photograph the native plants but do not remove them • No lighting of fires • No trail bikes

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Playing in Greater Bendigo

Pools open

Keen swimmer Cr Helen Leach enjoying a swim at the Bendigo Aquatic Centre.

Fun in the sun!

It is time to get ready to slip, slop, slap and head to your local pool for some outdoor summer fun.

The City’s premier outdoor pool – the Bendigo Aquatic Centre – is open daily from 6am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 6.30pm on weekends.

At this time of the year the Bendigo Aquatic Centre is gas heated to 26.5 degrees making swimming at the centre comfortable and enjoyable.

The easiest and cheapest way for residents young and old to enjoy swimming is to purchase a seasons ticket.

Seasons tickets provide entry to all of the City of Greater Bendigo’s outdoor swimming

pools (excluding Peter Krenz Leisure Centre and Golden Square Swimming Pool) and can be purchased at the commencement of the swimming season direct from all local pools as they open.

The price for a regular season pass is $92 per adult, $69 per child or $177 per family.

Concessions are also available for Healthcare and Pension card holders.

Bendigo Aquatic Centre Barnard St, Bendigo Ph: 5443 6151 Bendigo East Swimming Pool Lansell St, Bendigo East Ph: 5443 7078 Brennan Park Swimming Pool Houlahan St, Flora Hil Ph: 5443 9407

Goornong Swimming Pool Bagshot St, Goornong Ph: 5432 2368

Heathcote Swimming Pool Barrack St, Heathcote Ph: 5433 2223

Elmore Swimming Pool Hunter Rd, Elmore Ph: 5432 6381

Kangaroo Flat Swimming Pool Station St, Kangaroo Flat Ph: 5447 7964

Golden Square Swimming Pool Maple Street, Golden Square Ph: 5443 7774

Marong Swimming Pool Calder Alternative Hwy, Marong Ph: 5435 2207

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Peter Krenz Leisure Centre Napier St, Eaglehawk Ph: 5446 9222 Raywood Swimming Pool MacAuley St, Raywood Ph: 5436 1360 White Hills Swimming Pool Hamelin St, White Hills Ph: 5448 4295 For more information on opening hours and facilities on offer at all pools visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/pools

for summer Peter Krenz Leisure Centre

- a great community asset Patrons of the Peter Krenz Leisure Centre may have noticed a few positive changes to the facility in recent months.

The City of Greater Bendigo commissioned a new modern 12-seat luxury spa at the centre while also upgrading the surrounding pool hall. This has included painting, flooring, lighting and other minor improvements to enhance the visitor experience.

During the spa upgrade, the YMCA took the opportunity to improve the steam room by installing new windows, tiles and seating.

YMCA Chief Executive Officer Michael Bailey said there are more changes to come, with the City to invest in a range of

improvement works over the next 12 months. “The centre is a great asset for the Eaglehawk community and wider north Bendigo area, so it is necessary to maintain and upgrade the building and facilities as required,� Mr Bailey said.

Other proposed works to be undertaken include replacing bi-fold doors separating indoor and outdoor areas, painting the water slide tower, replacing window flashings, upgrading lighting over the intermediate pool and improved chemical storage.

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Sports facility upgrades on the way

Above: South Bendigo Bowls Club Deputy Director Rob Clohesy.

Cricket, baseball, athletics, netball and lawn bowls facilities across the municipality will be upgraded, following an investment of $500,000 from the City of Greater Bendigo’s 2013/14 budget.

Councillor Lisa Ruffell said the general up-keep of all sporting and recreation reserves across Greater Bendigo was important.

“Sport in regional areas is a great source of entertainment and friendly competition, and the City encourages residents to lead fit, healthy and active lifestyles,” Cr Ruffell said.

“Improving recreational facilities to meet the needs of residents is an important role of local government, and will ensure

they are safe and reliable for years to come.”

Specific Project

Net cost to ratepayers

Grants and other contributions

Total spend

Strathdale Park – install two cricket hard wickets

$37,000

$3000

$40,000

Latrobe University Bendigo Athletics track hammer throw cage – upgrade works for compliance

$45,000

$0

$45,000

North Bendigo Netball Club – upgrade netball court

$60,000

$0

$60,000

“We’re keen to start a night competition and give our barefoot bowlers a better facility too,” Mr Clohesy said.

Strathfieldsaye Dodgers facilities – replace existing out-dated batting tunnel, player dugouts with allweather twin batting tunnel and new, larger dugout

$27,765

$52,235

$80,000

“The lighting will also benefit our older members and help them to see better at training.”

South Bendigo Bowls Club - lighting upgrade

$55,000

$5000

$60,000

Small town recreation reserves – various works

$55,000

$0

$55,000

Upgrade regional and state recreation facilities

$30,000

$0

$30,000

One of the clubs to benefit from the Budget is South Bendigo Bowls Club, where new lighting will be installed across two greens.

Club Deputy Director Rob Clohesy said the lighting would help attract new players to the sport.

The below table includes some of the recreation projects for the 2013/2014 financial year.

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Canterbury Park Sports Precinct Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park is set to become a state-of-the-art multi-purpose sporting hub.

Cricket, football, netball, tennis and lawn bowls sporting clubs will all benefit from a $3.52 million investment.

This includes upgrading the sports pavilion and change rooms, improving the Canterbury Oval grandstand and Stage 1 works to install cricket nets, a synthetic bowling green, access ramps, paving and sport lighting. All sports surfaces will be upgraded and meet current standards.

The development will not only cater for Eaglehawk sporting clubs and residents, but Greater Bendigo as a whole will benefit from the multimillion dollar works that will help attract national and regional sporting events.

and prepare for competition would be fantastic,” Mr Piercy said.

Eaglehawk Cricket Club President Ashley Piercy welcomed the funding and plans for the precinct.

“Development of this scale is long overdue in Eaglehawk and a sporting complex like the one planned would be valued by all user groups.”

“Our training facilities are tired, so any funding that can improve how we train

Stage 2 works including car park modifications, access road, event space,

open space pavilion, landscaping and lighting throughout is planned to begin next year.

The entire redevelopment is expected to be complete in the 2015/2016 financial year.

Director Community Wellbeing Pauline Gordon said the City is committed to

providing the necessary facilities and infrastructure needed by the community.

“The development will not only cater for Eaglehawk sporting clubs and residents, but Greater Bendigo as a whole will benefit from the multi-million dollar works that will help attract national and regional sporting events.”

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Above: Dylan Whelan tries out his skills on the new BMX track.

Right: New shelter.

Heathcote Skate Park hub now open Heathcote has become a hub for thrill seekers following the completion of the BMX jumps track and the skate park extension.

The hub has been actively developed since 2009 across three stages. First, the City’s old Council depot was transformed into a skate park featuring quarter pipes, steel balustrades, a transition platform and slide rails.

The second stage involved building an accessibility pathway to connect Heathcote Hospital with Camp Street in 2011, and the BMX jumps track was

added earlier this year.

Stage three was recently completed in September when a shade shelter, seating, picnic tables and a retaining wall were installed and the existing skate park was extended.

Manager Active and Healthy Communities Patrick Jess said the precinct’s development was a key priority of the Heathcote and District Community Plan.

“The project has been a joint initiative that has been developed in conjunction with Heathcote Lions Club, which

contributed $10,000 to the project, and Heathcote Health, which contributed $25,000 and included a generous donation from David Barnes in memory of his mother.”

“Local young people were also involved in every step of the precinct’s development and worked with former World Number One BMX champion Ash McCutcheon to create a magnificent

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BMX track with many hidden features for young, skilled and advanced riders.

“All involved are to be commended for their efforts to design a great community asset that will have a lasting benefit for the region.” Mr Jess said.

The total cost of the three stages was $221,500 and the City contributed $186,500 to the project.

New facilities for Huntly Equine Centre The City of Greater Bendigo has constructed a new $165,000 toilet and shower facility to serve users of the Huntly Equine Recreation Reserve in Millwood Road, Huntly.

The new facility has replaced a temporary portable toilet at the centre and is a much welcome addition to the Huntly Equine Recreation Reserve.

The project has included construction of a facility featuring accessible showers and toilets which comply with Australian accessibility and sustainability standards and the City’s own Public Toilet Design Policy.

Sensor lighting, water-saving devices and a fully functioning waste water treatment system have also been installed to reduce ongoing maintenance costs.

This has been a very important and much appreciated project for the ongoing development of the Huntly Equine Centre and its user groups which include the Huntly/Spring Gully Pony Club, Huntly Social Riding Club and Central Highlands Pleasure Harness Club.

It is the final piece of infrastructure to be constructed as part of the agreement to relocate the Spring Gully Pony Club to the Huntly site.

Huntly Equine Centre member Rebecca Bigham.

New state-of-the-art PA system for QEO The City has funded and installed a new state-of-the-art $40,000 public address system at Bendigo’s premier sporting ground – the Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The new system will meet AFL standards and is also linked to the grounds new electronic scoreboard to allow it to be used to its fullest potential.

Adding sound to our new scoreboard opens up a range of new opportunities for user groups to run promotions and attract new sponsorship.

Advertisements can be played on the scoreboard and heard around the ground which is expected to help to offset the cost of events and fully utilise the scoreboard and screen.

AFL Regional Operations Manager Justin Abrams.

The new system also allows important public announcements to be broadcast around the ground to large crowds and provides the opportunity for live

commentary to take place during events.

The installation of the new system is part of the City’s commitment to ensuring its facilities are well maintained and upgraded as required.

Regional Operations Manager AFL Central Victoria Region Justin Abrams said the QEO Audio Project is a fantastic initiative for sport within the region.

“From our perspective this project will revolutionise semi-professional and grass-roots sport and offer a user friendly, professional service which will assist all user groups within the QEO precinct.

“I congratulate the City of Greater Bendigo in their efforts to propel the QEO into a professional facility which is of the highest standard within the region,” he said.

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Planning for the future

Getting around Greater Bendigo in the future The second stage of the City’s Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy is nearing completion, following extensive community consultation and engagement with 1000 residents who were asked to complete a survey, attend workshops, enter art competitions or take part in a story telling campaign explaining how they get around Greater Bendigo.

Stage two of the project asked the community to help the City identify what Greater Bendigo’s transport future should look like and how transport relates to where we live, work and play.

Nine men and women shared their thoughts on how they moved around the municipality. Their feedback, along with the ideas and opinions shared by all members of the community who took part in the consultation process, will inform the outcomes of the Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy.

Sarah Duckett – Strathdale teacher, mother of two children In the context of how transport relates to where we live, work and play, what works in Bendigo?

“I think the buses are excellent. They’re always on time, they’re very rarely cancelled. They’re clean. The bus drivers, I find, are really helpful, polite and very friendly.

In terms of transport and how it relates to places, what doesn’t work in Bendigo?

“I think the buses need to, especially if you want to encourage more people to

use buses, is to run the buses later in the day.”

What would you like Bendigo to feel and look like in the future?

“Less cars… I don’t think we need so many car parks. It would be nice to encourage people to use the bus.

Daniel Giles – Strathdale freelance graphic designer and public speaker spreading awareness of living with autism.

What are the three big issues for Bendigo as far as transport and land use?

“First of all, having very limited train services to Eaglehawk. I believe the majority of train services should begin and terminate at Eaglehawk. No public transport at night. Then thirdly, I think also public transport is not attractive to people who have a choice to drive a car, so if they ran more services, I would hope it would be up to a standard where people could have a choice.”

What doesn’t work?

“The connection of small townships to the city of Bendigo itself is extremely poor. To get from Heathcote to Bendigo there are only a very limited amount of buses during the week, nothing on weekends.

Daniel Giles, Flora Hill

“So if you have high school students or people who don’t drive, they don’t have access to services within Bendigo on the weekend, which also means recreational activities are precluded to them.”

Nicola Dunniclif-Wells, Flora Hill

Nicola Dunniclif-Wells – Flora Hill mother of three What would you like Bendigo to feel and look like in the future?

Sarah Duckett, Strathdale

“Bendigo is not invaded by cars yet but if we could keep that somehow, that would be what I’d like Bendigo to be like in the future.

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In the context of how transport relates to where we live, work and play, what doesn’t work in Bendigo?

“One thing that bugs me is that there are not always footpaths in Bendigo.

Particularly in the new housing estates and where there are sometimes [only footpaths] on one side of the street.

Master plan underway for Rosalind Park Recreation Reserve A new Master Plan is being developed to establish a clear vision for Bendigo’s renowned ‘city park’.

The Rosalind Park Recreation Reserve Precinct Master Plan, to be completed in April next year, will build on a previous master plan approved in 2004. While some of its concepts have been realised, others lack support or have been compromised.

“Almost 10 years later, a lot has changed in and around Rosalind Park and a fresh approach is needed,” Planning and Development Director Prue Mansfield said.

“The new Master Plan will draw on old and new ideas including those in the 2004 master plan. It will create a contemporary vision and will address issues of design, management and budget.”

Objectives include: • Establishing a clear vision for the Park Precinct

• Proposing an ambitious but realistic scope of initiatives • Creating a management framework for the Park Precinct The Rosalind Park Recreation Reserve Precinct Master plan is being developed by the City’s Strategy Unit and while it focuses primarily on the park, it also includes other places such as: The Chinese Precinct; Camp Hill Primary School; Bendigo Senior Secondary College; Park Road; and the Bendigo Theatre project.

Vision and concept development is underway and drafting of the Master plan will happen during November, December and January with the draft to go on public display before April 2014.

Community members have been given an opportunity to have their say through a series of workshops and an online survey.

• Building on the ideas and initiatives of the 2004 Master plan

If you have something to say or a question to ask, you can also contact the project manager on 5434 6452 or m.stubbs@bendigo.vic.gov.au

• Balancing the interests of individuals and user groups

Find out more at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/rosalindpark

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Structure planning for Maiden Gully

The Maiden Gully Precinct Structure Plan is a long term strategic plan to guide the future urban development of Maiden Gully.

The preservation of semi-rural and bushland character was identified as a significant priority in the Structure Plan and consultation confirmed the hamletstyle residential layout was popular, as it allows for the staged development of future homes in the area and protects Maiden Gully’s natural beauty.

Director Planning and Development Prue Mansfield said it was also important not to over-develop the area, to ensure current and future residents are protected from bushfire risk.

“The Structure Plan will allow us to properly plan for the delivery of infrastructure and ensure that Maiden Gully continues to grow into a great place to live,” Ms Mansfield said.

How the plan will become reality: The overall Maiden Gully Precinct Structure Plan will be implemented over the long term by; • Preparing a Planning Scheme Amendment (2013/14 financial year); • Development advocates and property owners developing land generally in accordance with the Structure Plan; • The Victorian Government and the City of Greater Bendigo jointly funding, delivering and managing a range of infrastructure and services to support the development; and • Non-government service providers and individuals, such as volunteers, who will help manage and deliver services.

For More information contact the City’s Strategy Unit or project manager, Steven Abbott on 5434 6000.

Trevor Budge joins City as Strategy Manager Well-known La Trobe University Associate Professor Trevor Budge has been appointed as the City’s Strategy Manager and will begin work in November.

His knowledge and skills will be of enormous benefit to the City of Greater Bendigo as we continue to plan for our future Mr Budge is well-respected in Bendigo and Victoria and has served on planning panels for the State Government and as President of the Victorian Division of the Planning Institute of Australia.

He is currently Head of the awardwinning Community Planning and Development Program and Campus Coordinator for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at La Trobe’s Bendigo campus. He is also a Member of the General Division Order of Australia for service to town planning, particularly the development of regional and rural communities in Victoria.

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City Director of Planning and Development Prue Mansfield described Mr Budge’s appointment as Strategy Manager as a coup for the City of Greater Bendigo.

“Trevor is highly respected in state and local government circles and across the private sector as a professional planner and planning academic,” Ms Mansfield said.

“He has played a pivotal role in assisting regional centres such as Bendigo, Ballarat, Shepparton, Warrnambool, Launceston, Mildura, Traralgon, Burnie and Wodonga to plan for their future growth and development.

“Everyone knows Greater Bendigo is one of the best places to live and work in Australia,” he said.

“The key challenge is to put the right plans in place now to ensure we can continue to be so as our population grows to a projected 145,000 by 2031.

“The role of Strategy Manager is pivotal to building Bendigo as a premier regional city in Australia.”

Mr Budge will maintain his close links with La Trobe University.

“His knowledge and skills will be of enormous benefit to the City of Greater Bendigo as we continue to plan for our future.”

As Strategy Manager, Mr Budge will ensure that the City considers social, environmental and economic issues when planning for the future. He will be responsible for the Council Plan and strategies such as Connecting Greater Bendigo – the Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy, and the review of the Residential Strategy.

Mr Budge said he was looking forward to taking on the role.

City Strategy Manager, Trevor Budge.

Residential Strategy plans for growth Planning for growth in Greater Bendigo is a complex and challenging task with a wide range of environmental, economic and social issues that need to be considered.

for how Greater Bendigo could grow into the future, including factors such as Bendigo’s role within the region, population growth, transport and the environment

The City of Greater Bendigo is reviewing the 2004 Residential Development Strategy to provide a framework for how Greater Bendigo will grow into the future.

Work is underway to prepare the revised strategy document. When this document has been drafted it will be presented to Council and then released for community comments.

What stage is it at?

How do I get involved?

The review is well advanced and detailed work has been undertaken in regard to land supply, bushfire risk and other issues that impact on how we grow.

If you would like to be involved, contact Strategic Planning Coordinator Andrew Cockerall by emailing a.cockerall@ bendigo.vic.gov.au or phone 5434 6292 to register your interest in the project.

An Issues and Options Paper has been prepared that identified scenarios

Council backs Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth Plan Council has supported a regional Growth Plan for the next 30 years.

The Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth Plan has been prepared by the State Government in consultation with the City of Greater Bendigo, Central Goldfields Shire, Loddon Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and Mount Alexander Shire.

The Plan caters for a regional population of up to 300,000 and identifies Bendigo as pivotal to the region’s success over the next 30 years. For Greater Bendigo, the Plan provides for a population of between 150,000 and 200,000.

Actions identified for Bendigo include: • Prioritising the implementation of the Marong Plan and Marong Business Park development

• Supporting the Bendigo Hospital precinct planning project, and housing and mixed use planning and development within the precinct • Enhancing economic activity, especially in the following locations: - Bendigo City Centre, including the Gillies and Crystal Ice sites - Bendigo railway station precinct - Bendigo Hospital precinct - La Trobe University precinct - Bendigo Theatre precinct The Plan will now be sent to the Minister for Planning for final approval. It will then be incorporated into local planning schemes and used to guide investment and other decisions by the State Government and local councils.

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City Services

City Animal Control Officer Jo Baker reunites much-loved pet Zara with owner Brittany.

Are you a responsible pet owner?

Leaders in animal management Council has adopted the Domestic Animal Management Plan, which implements a range of positive initiatives designed to keep animals and the community safe.

Manager Parking and Animal Control, Neville Zimmer said the Plan goes beyond meeting the mandated requirements of the Domestic Animals Act. “The City is proud to have taken a leadership role in planning for animals in emergencies and supporting victims of family violence in managing their pets by assisting with temporary boarding or foster care arrangements for them,” Mr Zimmer said.

“The Plan achieves a balance of educational and regulatory approaches to encourage responsible pet ownership and ensures the needs of animals, their owners and non-pet owners are met.”

Benefits of registering and microchipping your pet Resident Brittany Fahy is reminding pet owners about the importance of registering a new pet, after her pet puppy Zara went missing the day after she registered it.

Ms Fahy said she had owned her puppy for nine months before realising it wasn’t registered with the City of Greater Bendigo.

“Zara came with a tag showing she had been registered with National

Animal Records, but this isn’t the same as registering your pet with your local Council,” she said.

“I am so glad I realised, as Zara escaped from the backyard and was able to be returned to me because animal control officers could locate my details.”

Pet registration is a legal requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994: • You must register you dog(s) or cat(s) with your local council by April 10 each year • Individual registration tags help identify and return lost pets within the municipality • Individual microchips provides a permanent form of identification registered on a national data base

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• Funds raised from registration fees go towards public facilities for your pet like dog parks, pounds and shelters, pet ownership education programs, dog bite/attack prevention programs, a lost and found service and training animal management staff

Costs to register your pet • The cost associated with registering your pet can vary, however if it is desexed, belongs to a domestic animal business or applicable organisation, or has undergone approved training, discounts will apply.

More information • www.depi.vic.gov.au/pets • www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/animals

Services relocate to provide a one-stop-shop

Jarrod, Sarah, Jayda, Meleah, and Sarhi Alford at the new Lightening Reef Early Learning Centre.

The North Bendigo and California Gully Maternal and Child Health services have relocated to the Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre, which provides a onestop-shop for families.

The new centre opened earlier this year and also accommodates childcare, kindergarten, out-of-school-hours care and parenting programs.

Mother of three Sarah Alford said the Early Learning Centre is a great asset for the local community.

“It is great to have the extra services in one place and for the children to be able to have the same nurse tend to their health and development from infancy through to early childhood,” Ms Alford said.

The new Lightning Reef Maternal and Child Health service phone number is 5442 1109 and is one of 14 centres across Bendigo.

The Maternal and Child Health Service is a free service for families from a child’s birth through to commencing school.

The service offers 10 key age and stage consultations and other activities, including first parent groups. If you would like to make an appointment to see one of the Maternal and Child Health Nurses please call Children’s Services on 5434 6364 or 5434 6328.

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Our local economy

Showcasing our local manufacturing and mining industries The City’s Economic Development Unit has produced a new booklet called Greater Bendigo’s Manufacturing & Mining Industries to showcase and market Bendigo’s innovative and diverse manufacturing and mining industries to companies looking to source suppliers or relocate to the region.

“We have to be innovative in providing product to meet and exceed our customer’s expectations and this new 36 page full colour booklet features important information and facts about all local manufacturing and mining sectors,” said Ken McCulloch.

Economic Development Manager Brian Gould said the manufacturing and mining industries are collectively by far the largest economic contributor to Bendigo’s local economy providing direct and indirect employment for over 6,900 people.

Sectors including Food & Beverage, Building Products, Metals and Engineering, Mining and Quarrying, Textiles and Clothing, Transport and Related Manufacturing Products and others are represented in the booklet.

“Our manufacturing and mining industries are diverse and provide a range of products for national and international markets. Many locals simply don’t realise the impact these businesses have on our local economy and local jobs,” said Brian Gould.

Bendigo Manufacturing Group Chairman Ken McCulloch said many of Bendigo’s manufacturers are now recognised widely as “solutions-providers” in today’s highly competitive global market place.

The booklet also features special ‘hero articles’ on Hazeldene’s Chicken Farm, BB Truss & Timber, Keech Australia, Fosterville Gold Mine, Australian Defence Apparel, Southern Shorthaul Railroad and Ceramic Oxide Fabricators to represent each sector. The aim of this is to provide readers with a good insight into each of the companies and their experiences operating in Greater Bendigo and supplying markets well beyond our region.

“Manufacturing is alive and well in Bendigo and it’s important that we tell our story and continue to attract manufacturing opportunities to our region,” said Mr Gould.

Copies of Greater Bendigo’s Manufacturing & Mining Industries is available online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au or by phoning the City of Greater Bendigo Economic Development Unit on 5434 6000.

City of Greater Bendigo CEO Craig Niemann and Bendigo Manufacturing Group Chairman Ken McCulloch launch the new Manufacturing & Mining Industries booklet at Southern Shorthaul Railroad.

The new Bushmaster Court A recent land sub-division of the Thales Australia’s Bendigo site has opened up new industrial-zoned land in close proximity to the Bendigo CBD, which is expected to generate additional economic growth within Greater Bendigo.

The sub-division is a milestone for a unique partnership between the City, Thales Australia and the State Government who all recently came

together to celebrate the opening of the new Bushmaster Court sub-division access road.

attract Hofmann Engineering to Bendigo some years ago which resulted in the creation of more than 100 new jobs.

City Economic Development Unit Manager Brian Gould said it is rare to see two significant parcels of industrial land like this become available especially so close to both the CBD and the hospital precinct.

“The subdivision has also allowed Hofmann’s to acquire the land that they currently operate from and with two additional industrial zoned land parcels now available there is even more potential for growth.

“The City worked closely with Thales Australia and the State Government to

“Both lots are around four hectares each and provide excellent scope for new

businesses to establish operations in a unique urban industrial area.

“The ongoing defence vehicle manufacturing by Thales plus Hofmann Engineering’s operation has already provided the basis for this precinct to be a busy hub of activity and we are looking forward to seeing further activity in the area as the two lots are developed in the future,” said Mr Gould.

New industrial area in Bushmaster Court, Bendigo.

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Cyclists Stephen Iser, Geoff O’Sullivan and Martin Banfield check out the new ‘Manky’.

Bendigo launches Australia’s first Cycling Manky The Juvenile 38

A partnership between the Bendigo Cycling community and the City to meet the needs of both local cyclists and the fast growing number of visiting cyclists to the region has resulted in the launch of two Great Rides of Bendigo Cycling brochures and a unique Road Cycling ‘Manky’.

A Road Cycling brochure featuring three of the most popular road rides currently enjoyed by Bendigo’s own

cycling community and a Family Cycling and Walking brochure highlighting the popular Bendigo Creek Trail as a great family ride or walk have been produced but it’s the unique Manky that appears to be attracting all the attention.

The ‘Manky’ is a map on a hanky that features five popular road rides and a list of local ride times. Bendigo is the first city in Australia to produce a ‘Manky’.

The Manky is a reusable, durable and water proof map developed on micro-fibre that can be used as a polishing cloth and to wipe sweat off the brow during a long ride.

It can be purchased for only $9.95 from the Bendigo Visitor Centre which makes it a very affordable souvenir or gift and an excellent marketing tool for our region.

Group Geoff O’Sullivan said he expected the Manky to be highly valued by both LONE TREES local and visiting cyclists.

AND LEATHER

Local cyclist and member of the Bendigo Cycle Tourism Working

The Goose Neck

“I think they will be sought out, appreciated and well used by cyclists of all ages,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

While Bendigo’s core tourism brand strengths are food and wine, culture and heritage, cycling is a fast growing market segment for Central Victoria.

The Great Rides of Bendigo brochures and the Bendigo Cycling Manky are available from the Bendigo Visitor Centre in Pall Mall.

Greater Bendigo magazine | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine | 31

Get set for Summer in the Parks Cr Rod Fyffe in Rosalind Park.

Programs available now!

The program for the City’s 2013/14 Summer in the Parks Festival is now available. Make sure you grab a copy so you don’t miss out on any of the fun events taking place over the summer months.

This hugely successful festival is now in its 14th

year of entertaining locals on weekends over December, January and February. During this time residents and visitors can enjoy a range of Christmas celebrations throughout December, live music in the park Friday evenings in January, breezy outdoor movie nights each Saturday evening

in February, plus walking tours, garden tours, art events and much more.

The Summer in the Parks festival provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy free or low cost entertainment in and around public parks and open spaces within the municipality.

It’s a great opportunity for families to pack a picnic and enjoy our fantastic local parks and reserves. Events will take place in Bendigo and surrounding townships.

So if you’re wondering what to do with the family this Summer pick up a program from the

Bendigo Visitor Centre or checkout the festival program at www.bendigotourism.com You can also check us out on Facebook/ BendigoSummerInTheParks or Twitter @ BendigoSPARKS

Ancient Greece is coming to Bendigo in 2014 Bendigo Art Gallery will host another major international exhibition in 2014 - The Body Beautiful in Ancient Greece from the prestigious British Museum.

London’s British Museum is one of the oldest and most celebrated museums in the world with a collection of more than seven million objects exploring human history and culture from its beginnings to the present and this is the first time the Museum has toured an exhibition to a regional Australian venue.

The Body Beautiful in Ancient Greece exhibition features treasures from the ancient world selected from the British Museum’s world renowned Greek and Roman collection and offers a stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition seen

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through ancient Greek eyes, focusing on a fascination with the human body. Opening in August 2014, the exhibition will include iconic marble and bronze sculptures, vessels, gold objects and jewellery.

Exclusive to Bendigo Art Gallery in Australia, it is expected to have a diverse and wide appeal and attract thousands of visitors to Bendigo.

Bendigo Art Gallery Director, Karen Quinlan said the Gallery was thrilled to present another world class exhibition.

“The Body Beautiful in Ancient Greece will give audiences the rare opportunity to see over 100 historical works including the impressive Discobolus; an iconic marble statue of a discus thrower from the second century AD’, she said.

The Director of the British Museum Neil MacGregor said

he was also delighted that his Museum could share with Bendigo and the people of Victoria such star objects from its collection as the famous sculpture of a discus thrower.

The Body Beautiful in Ancient Greece will be the third exclusive exhibition in the impressive Bendigo International Collection series to be staged at the Bendigo Art Gallery, following the success of Wedding Dress: Two Hundred Years of Wedding Fashion (2011) and Grace Kelly: Style Icon (2012) which attracted 228,000 attendances and generated millions of dollars for the local economy.

Left: Discobolus (discus-thrower), Roman copy of a bronze original of the 5th century BC. From Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, Lazio, Italy. © The Trustees of the British Museum.

Bendigo Visitor Centre now a myki outlet People wanting myki cards can get them from the Bendigo Visitor Centre.

The new ticketing system is now operating on all V/Line trains and on Bendigo’s bus network.

Bendigo Visitor Centre staff have successfully completed training by Public Transport Victoria (PTV) and can provide comprehensive information about travelling on the public transport system with myki.

The Bendigo Visitor Centre is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.

Myki cards are available from the Bendigo Visitor Centre.

New phone app promotes Bendigo region

Key features of the app include: • A ‘locate me’ map reference to where you are located in the region • An interactive map to tailor your experience (e.g. list gluten free cafes) • View events in the region happening today, in the next seven days, by month and by subject interest

A free mobile phone app promoting the Bendigo region is now available.

• Latest stories on the region

The Bendigo Region app, designed by the City of Greater Bendigo’s Tourism Unit in conjunction with the Bendigo Tourism Board, provides access to more than 250 key businesses in the region and is an invaluable tool for visitors.

• Book accommodation instantly

• Suggested itineraries to follow • Book tickets to events and tours instantly

YouTube videos and Trip Advisor reviews More than 25 per cent of traffic to the Bendigo Tourism website is from either a tablet or smartphone and the app is able to build on what is already available online, but is more flexible than the website and allows for even more key features to be added over time.

The app can be easily downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

• Social media integration to allow for Twitter and Facebook updates,

Grab a Dining & Shopping Guide The updated 2013 Bendigo Dining & Shopping Guide showcases the best local shopping and dining experiences for both residents and visitors to Bendigo.

The guide features Bendigo CBD shopping and dining precincts, including Bath Lane, Chancery Lane, Bull Street, Hargreaves and Williamson Streets, Lyttleton Terrace and Queen Street, Mitchell Street, Pall Mall and High Street and View Street. Each has its own style, points of interest and local characters.

Bendigo really does have some truly interesting and unique shopping and dining experiences throughout the CBD and beyond and the guide is a fantastic way to promote these businesses to our visitors and also our own local residents.

The guide also features other local businesses in a Minutes Away section as well as a section on the Heathcote Region. Information on local events, parking, the Bendigo Region App, Food Fossicking, Age Good Food Guide Trail, Artists Walk along with maps and

a shopping directory and a dining directory are all included in the new guide.

The Bendigo Dining & Shopping Guide has been produced by the City’s Tourism Unit in conjunction with Bendigo Tourism and is available from the Bendigo Visitor Centre.

Right: The 2013 Bendigo Dining & Shopping Guide.

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Questions answered about super liability also decline. Since January 1, 1994 new local government employees have only been able to join a standard accumulation plan. The CoGB budgets for and pays this normal fortnightly employer superannuation contribution for staff.

Council has been campaigning for changes to a superannuation scheme that threatens the City of Greater Bendigo’s capacity to deliver high quality services and much-needed infrastructure for our community.

Last financial year, Council was forced to find $10M to cover a shortfall in the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund Defined Benefit Plan. To put this in perspective, it equates to our annual roads budget and double our annual budget for drainage.

And Greater Bendigo is not alone. Across the State, councils, water authorities and libraries are being asked to find $453M. The City has developed a series of questions and answers to help the community better understand why change is needed: Q. W hat is the LASF Defined Benefit Plan?

A. The Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (LASF) was established by an Act of Parliament in 1947 to provide superannuation to Victorian local government and the water industry.

The LASF Defined Benefit Plan was set up by the Victorian Government in 1982 and was compulsory for all councils until it was closed to new members in 1993.

Q. W hat is the difference between the Defined Benefit Plan and the City of Greater Bendigo’s (CoGB) normal fortnightly staff accumulation superannuation payments?

A. Defined benefit plans provide a prescribed benefit based on how long an employee has been a scheme member and their salary at retirement.

Employers, rather than employees, must shoulder investment risks.

Accumulation schemes, which are the norm today, reverse this model and when investment market returns are down, the total accumulated super funds in an employee’s account will

occurred during the final six months of 2011 due to market volatility, and that this outcome could not have been foreseen. The Actuary has attributed the shortfall to: • Lower than expected market investment returns (responsible for just over 50% of the shortfall)

Q. W hy do all Victorian Councils still have to contribute to the Defined Benefit Plan?

A. A lthough the plan was closed in 1993, Victorian Councils including CoGB are obligated to continue to make payments in respect to staff who were members of the plan at the time of closing. The Defined Benefit Plan became a ‘regulated fund’ under Commonwealth legislation on July 1 1998, which required it to be fully funded. Prior to this date it was exempt from being fully funded.

Other public sector (State and Federal Government) defined benefit super schemes continue to be exempt to this day.

Q. W hat does ‘fully-funded’ mean?

A. In accordance with Commonwealth regulations, Vision Super must complete an actuarial review at least every three years to ensure that assets are adequate to meet the benefits previously promised to members now and into the future.

If a shortfall arises that cannot be addressed through an investment plan, then employers may be required to make top-up contributions. Unlike other exempt public sector schemes, it must be fully funded which would enable all payments to be made if all members withdraw their funds on the one day. Unfunded superannuation liabilities for the Victorian Government currently exceed $28.7B, while estimates of the unfunded Commonwealth defined benefits liability (excluding the Future Fund) are around $69B. Q. W hy doesn’t the COGB Council know what it has to pay and how much to budget for the Defined Benefits Plan?

A. A. In June 2012, the Actuary, who is required to assess whether the fund can meet its liabilities, advised of a $453M shortfall as at 31 December 2011, with Victorian councils sharing $396.9M plus $9.4M for regional library corporations. The Actuary advised that most of the shortfall

• Reduction in expected future earning rates from 8.5% pa to 7.5% pa (around 25% of the shortfall) • Salaries rising in excess of actuarial assumptions (around 8% of the shortfall) • Increased longevity of pensioners.

Q. H ow much has the Defined Benefit Plan cost the COGB Council since the fund closed in 1993?

A. $21M in cash and a further $2M in interest repayments for loan borrowings to pay for superannuation.

Q. H ow much longer will the Defined Benefit Plan be a burden to the CoGB and other Victorian Councils?

A. The Defined Benefit Plan is in run-off as members retire. When the plan closed in 1993 it had almost 38,000 defined benefit members and 7,500 lifetime pensioners. This has since reduced to 4,949 defined benefit members still working for authorities (with an average age of 54 years) and 5,132 lifetime pensioners (with an average age of 79 years). Liabilities of the scheme will continue until the last member or their spouse pass away.

Q. W hy can’t the government simply close or make changes to the Defined Benefit Plan?

A. Legislation does not permit this to occur. In addition, the trustees of the plan are required to make decisions which are in the best interest of the beneficiaries. Close of the fund is unlikely to be in the best interest of the beneficiaries.

Q. W hat is being done to reduce the burden of the Defined Benefit Plan on the community for the future?

A. A Taskforce of councillors and council officers was established in 2012 by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) which represents the interests of all Victorian Councils to see what could be done to help Council’s address this issue. Recommendations

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released in December 2012 include access to cheaper borrowing rates, reviewing the methodology and budget allocations for shortfalls, waiving ancillary government costs on shortfall payments, regulatory reforms, and greater awareness of wages and investment returns that can influence the liability. The MAV are seeking a transition back to a state-managed scheme, which would remove the requirement to ensure full funding and would return the Defined Benefit Plan to an equal footing with other exempt public sector schemes. This outcome requires support from both the Victorian and Australian Government’s to repeal the Federal legislation and introduce State legislation to give effect to this change. Other actions being pursued by the MAV include discussions with the Australian and Victorian governments to remove the 15 per cent Contribution Tax and WorkCover liabilities associated with defined benefits call-ins. Unless the legislation is changed, CoGB can expect to continue topping up the scheme for the next 30-plus years.

Q. W hat is the CoGB Council doing?

A. The CoGB Council is actively lobbying State and Federal politicians for a change in legislation. The Mayor has written to the Prime Minister and Premier, plus others from all sides of politics. The Mayor has also spoken to other regional Councils who are also supporting the call for legislative change.

Q. W hy is the CoGB Council lobbying for change?

A. The City of Greater Bendigo believes that regularly topping up the scheme places an unfair burden on ratepayers and significantly reduces Council’s capacity to deliver services and capital works projects to the community.

Other levels of government are not required to fully fund their superannuation schemes and Council believes the same rules should apply to all. The CoGB Council is also lobbying governments to remove the Contributions Tax and the impact it has on WorkCover premiums.

Q. H ow can I find out more about this issue?

A. There is more information available on the City of Greater Bendigo website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

Council furniture returned to former glory Original Victorian-era council furniture has been preserved for future generations and is on display in the old Council Chamber in the Bendigo Town Hall.

The City relied on the artisan skills of a local joiner, upholster and French polisher to return 10 councillor chairs, a mayoress chair, eight councillor desks, backbench seat, mayoral podium,

mayoral pedestal, seal box and two hall tables to their former glory.

Planning and Development Director Prue Mansfield said the City is proud of its history and its commitment to conserving these important pieces of furniture.

“This has been a significant project for the City to undertake, because the furniture is a direct link to our Council

forebears and around which some very important decisions were made for our town,” Ms Mansfield said.

“It’s thought the pieces were originally crafted and upholstered locally, so it was important to continue this tradition and where new pieces of timber needed to be sourced, Australian Colonial Cedar was used to recreate the furniture.”

This restoration project cost $85,000 and

was paid for by the City.

In order to view the furniture, members of the public can book tours through the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre.

Bendigo Visitor Centre 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo Freecall 1800 813 153 or visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

Greater Bendigo magazine | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine | 35

Your Councillors

Lockwood Ward Mayor Cr Barry Lyons T: 5434 6215 M: 0429 292 084 E: b.lyons@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Cr Elise Chapman T: 5434 6193 M: 0418 330 289 E: e.chapman@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Cr Rod Fyffe

Get your Council news from the source It’s never been easier to get your City of Greater Bendigo news from the source.

Our media releases are published online at www. bendigo.vic.gov.au as soon as they are sent to media outlets and you can also subscribe to them using our RSS feed.

You can keep up-to-date by visiting us on Facebook or Twitter and you can view the City of Greater Bendigo photo gallery on Pinterest.

We also produce a quick threeminute weekly news bulletin on YouTube for those of you who want to know the news,

but don’t have a lot of time to spare.

Links to our social media pages and to the RSS feed are on the City of Greater Bendigo homepage at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

facebook.com/CityofGreaterBendigo

twitter.com/Greater_Bendigo

pinterest.com/greaterbendigo youtube.com/cityofgreaterbendigo

Our printer continually manage and improve our Environmental Management System in accordance with AS/NZS 14001 and communicate this policy and other environmental management commitments to all staff.

T: 5434 6189 M: 0427 318 490 E: p.cox@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Eppalock Ward Cr Mark Weragoda Executive Management Team

195-229 Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo

Craig Niemann Chief Executive Officer

Telephone 5434 6000

Pauline Gordon Director, Community Wellbeing

Hearing or speech impaired?

Call us via the National Relay Service on 133 677

Stan Liacos Director, City Futures

Email requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au

T: 5434 6206 M: 0429 946 171 E: l.ruffell@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Cr Peter Cox

City of Greater Bendigo

Fax 5434 6200

Cr Lisa Ruffell

T: 5434 6208 M: 0427 211 677 E: j.williams@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Contact us

Postal PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552

Whipstick Ward

Cr James Williams

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with our latest news.

T: 5443 7673 M: 0419 874 015 E: r.fyffe@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Darren Fuzzard Director, Presentation and Assets

Website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

Marg Allan Director, Organisation Support

After Hours/Emergency Number 5434 6000

Prue Mansfield Director, Planning and Development

Operating Hours (Main Office) 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday

36 | Greater Bendigo magazine | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine

T: 5434 6192 M: 0400 363 586 E: m.weragoda@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Cr Helen Leach T: 5434 6190 M: 0419 549 574 E: h.leach@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Cr Rod Campbell T: 5434 6203 M: 0427 514 429 E: r.campbell@bendigocouncillors.org.au

Councillor emails like other correspondence are the property of the City of Greater Bendigo and may be referred to a staff member for action. As with any correspondence, if you would like emails to be kept private and confidential please place “private and confidential” in the subject line.