2022 Community Update July edition

C O M M U N I TY UPDATE JULY 2022

IN THIS ISSUE WOMEN’S STREET ART MAJOR EVENTS ARE BACK WIN GREAT PRIZES

WELCOME TO COMMUNITY UPDATE Please enjoy our community newsletter featuring stories about the people, places, projects and events that make our region such a great place to live.

YOUR COUNCILLORS For more information, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/councillors

CR PETER MURRIHY Mayor Brownbill Ward 0434 307 045 pmurrihy@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR TRENT SULLIVAN Deputy Mayor Bellarine Ward 0434 307 050 tsullivan@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR ANTHONY AITKEN Windermere Ward 0434 307 044 aaitken@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR STEPHANIE ASHER Bellarine Ward 0413 369 719 sasher@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

MAYOR’S MESSAGE Greater Geelong has never been one to hibernate in winter, with so much to do and opportunities to embrace.

And there’s work towards being recognised as ‘clever and creative’ that never stops.

Our 30-year ‘Greater Geelong: A Clever and Creative Future’ vision was created by and belongs to the community, and to ensure success we keep track of our progress each year.

Council plays a central role as a Vision partner, which is why we increased our funding commitment by $21.84 million to make the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub a reality.

We also started sourcing all of the City’s electricity from renewable sources, taking the organisation closer to its 2025 net zero operational emissions goal.

There are many accomplishments from the community, such as work progressing on the state-of-the-art precinct that will become the Spirit of Tasmania’s new home.

Deakin University again put us on the map by launching Australia’s largest on-campus solar farm in Waurn Ponds.

With such talented and driven people in the Geelong region, we have a lot to look forward to as we achieve our community aspirations.

Cr Peter Murrihy Mayor, City of Greater Geelong

CR KYLIE GRZYBEK Windermere Ward 0434 307 043 kgrzybek@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR BRUCE HARWOOD Kardinia Ward 0434 307 042 bharwood@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR EDDY KONTELJ Brownbill Ward 0455 532 006 ekontelj@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR JIM MASON AM Bellarine Ward 0434 307 048 jmason@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR SARAH MANSFIELD Brownbill Ward 0436 343 642 smansfield@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR BELINDA MOLONEY Kardinia Ward 0435 219 198 bmoloney@geelongcity.vic.gov.au CR RON NELSON Kardinia Ward 0429 531 875 rnelson@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

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NUTRITION HELP IN SIX LANGUAGES Looking for common sense advice on what to eat? Our Eat Well, Live Well nutrition toolkit is now available in six languages – Arabic, Dari, Karen, Tamil, Swahili and English – with a First Nations version also available.

The toolkit includes tips and practical ideas to support healthier eating, as well as some basic recipes.

PROGRAMS FOR OUR COMMUNITY BREAKING DOWN THE PROBLEM OF PET POO

Scan the QR code to download or order your copy

Did you know the average dog creates 124 kilograms of poo a year?

Instead of letting it take up space in your red bin, you might want to try a pet poo composter. It comes with 2,000 worms that will not only break your pet’s waste down into soil, but also helps to reduce odours.

DRYSDALE LIBRARY TAKES SHAPE We are constructing a modern and accessible library for Drysdale that will form part of the new Drysdale town centre in Wyndham Street.

The library will feature communal spaces, quiet study areas, a City of Greater Geelong customer service centre and an adult Changing Places facility. Key features of the building design include a spectacular green roof and an internal courtyard garden, with low-carbon strategies incorporated throughout to make the building environmentally sustainable.

The library is being funded in partnership with the Victorian Government and is expected to be completed by April 2023.

HELP FOR THOSE SLEEPING ROUGH We have recently partnered with Community Care Chemist to provide care packs for local people experiencing homelessness by allocating $15,000 to fund 300 bum bags containing essential items, such as toiletries.

This initiative was conceived by a partnership of local agencies that is looking for new ways to support local people who are sleeping rough.

The pet poo composter is one of many great products we’re subsidising for residents on offer at geelong.wormlovers.com.au/shop Tips to further reduce your environmental paw-print: •

Buy 100 per cent plant-based pet poo bags instead of plastic.

•

Cook your own pet food using scraps from dog-safe vegetables including carrots, broccoli, zucchini and sweet potato.

WIN a pet poo composter valued at $288. Turn to page 16 to find out how.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 3

PAINTING A DIFFERENT PICTURE OF GEELONG A team of women artists have been relishing the opportunity to showcase their creativity on Geelong’s walls, car parks and laneways as part of a new street art project.

If you’ve taken a walk around Central Geelong recently, you might have noticed some spectacular new street art popping up in and around the city.

States of America. She spent days creating her piece, which features a woman in a jumpsuit with purple hair lounging amongst a bed of vines and leaves.

The work, created by 19 women street artists as part of our $150,000 Women’s Street Art Commission Project, is designed to not only bring colour and vibrancy to our city centre, but also to increase the representation of women in street art.

“I wanted to show that we’re all symbolically connected to nature and are part of a fragile world, even if we sometimes forget it,” she said.

As part of her commission, Parisian-born artist, Lucy Lucy, transformed the white walls of Crest Dry Cleaning, located near the corner of Ryrie and Union streets.

Lucy Lucy immigrated to Australia in 2006 and has painted murals and exhibited internationally, with her work featured in France, Australia, Canada, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United

GEELONG ILLUSTRATORS As part of this project, members of the Geelong Illustrators collaborated to create the colourful mural featured on our cover. Located in the carpark facing onto Star Street, the mural is intended to demonstrate the magic, passion and creativity the artists feel.

They chose a colour palette inspired by retro summer, giving their mural a timeless feel. geelongillustrators.com.au facebook.com/ geelongillustrators Instagram.com/geelong_ illustrators

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When asked how she felt about being a part of this unique project, she said:

“IT’S ALWAYS A PRIVILEGE TO WORK ON A MAJOR STREET ART PROJECT, BUT IT’S UNIQUE TO WORK ON A COMMISSION PROJECT THAT INVOLVES SO MANY TALENTED WOMEN. I HOPE WE’VE LEFT A WONDERFUL LEGACY FOR GEELONG AND BROUGHT MORE COLOUR AND LIFE TO THE CITY.” Another street artist, Greater Geelong local Kerrie Poliness, was given the job of transforming a 45-metre grey wall at Minns Lane.

Her abstract artwork was inspired by jazz music and an artistic style she has honed while drawing at low-tide on the back-beach between Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove over the past 25 years.

“The laneway was a venue for free live concerts hosted by the Piano Bar in between COVID-19 lockdowns,” Kerrie explains.

“My artwork considers the laneway as a live venue – where the artwork becomes a backdrop for performance – and the use of the laneway as the main entrance to the club now that events have returned indoors.

“As groups of people gather in the laneway before entering the club, they listen to music from inside, talk, dance, and mingle. Like this activity, I wanted the artwork to be vibrant and colourful and bring the wall to life.”

Pictured: Jasmine Crisp with her artwork in Cuzens Place (Photo by Ebony Gulliver)

“ I WANTED THE ARTWORK TO BE VIBRANT AND COLOURFUL AND BRING THE WALL TO LIFE.” KERRIE POLINESS

Councillor Trent Sullivan, said the devastating impact of the pandemic on Geelong’s artistic community was a central consideration in the decision to fund such a large-scale commission project.

“The arts community was devastated by the COVID-19 restrictions. It’s been such a bleak time for so many people, so to come out of it with a project focused on colour, pride and creativity is just amazing,” he said.

Pictured: Viki Murray at one of her various artworks (little people)

“Whether you’re having wine and cheese on Malop Street, picnicking in Johnstone Park, or seeing a show at one of our fabulous theatres, you’ll be able to spot plenty of unique new art works from these talented women.”

Want to know more about the project? Scan the QR code to watch our artist interviews.

Pictured: Artwork

by Kerrie Poliness in Minns Lane (Piano Bar)

Pictured: Artwork by Lucy Lucy near the corner of Crest Dry Cleaning on Ryrie Street COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 5

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS FOR THE ANAKIE ROOS Pictured: Netballers Jessica and Grace, Club President Heath Menhennet and footballers Alexander and Rohan from Anakie Football Netball Club

Pictured: Aye Point with TAC L2P Program volunteer mentor Jude Adams

Finding the right words to express what a new $2.2 million pavilion means to the Anakie Football Netball Club is difficult for President, Heath Menhennet.

Located at the foothills of the Brisbane Ranges, the Anakie Recreation Reserve has been home to local football since 1925, and netball since 2002. Throughout that time, the club has played an important role in bringing together the community living in and around Anakie.

While game day is typically busy in most football and netball clubs, Heath says the impact is even more noticeable in Anakie. “We have a population of roughly 200 people, so when we have a game here we double the population in the town, which makes us quite a focal point in the community,” he said.

While the first half of a major redevelopment of the club headquarters, affectionately known as the Roo Den, was completed in

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2018, the club was thrilled when Council also committed to funding the second and final stage of the project as part of the 2022–23 budget.

Heath said he hoped the funding would not only keep the club sustainable for the next 100 years, but also benefit the broader community.

“It is really hard to quantify what this funding will mean, but we are a sustainable club and provide a really safe environment for everyone to participate in and I think it is wonderful that the Council has recognised this,” he said.

“Whatever happens with the football club, there is a great building here and it can certainly be used by everyone in the community,” he said.

The new facility will include a large club and social room, a kitchen, gym, bar, cool room, unisex accessible amenities, a timekeepers’ space and administration office. The singlestorey pavilion is set to replace the existing social rooms, and will be erected next to the stand-alone change rooms that were built in stage one.

“WE ARE LEARNING ABOUT EACH OTHER, AND I DEFINITELY FEEL THAT JUDE HAS BECOME A GOOD FRIEND.”

DRIVING WITH PURPOSE When Jude Adams became a TAC L2P Program volunteer mentor 12 years ago, she had no idea just how rewarding it would be.

Getting the 120 hours of driving experience needed to qualify for your P-plates in Victoria can be quite a challenge for any young person. But if you don’t have access to a car, or an experienced driver able to supervise, it can be almost impossible.

By pairing up volunteer driver mentors with young people in need of support, the TAC L2P Program helps the next generation of drivers complete their learner log book.

Having taught her own daughters to drive, Jude Adams joined the program when it first started in Geelong. As an occupational therapist, she said, “it was a good fit for me as I could get involved while still working.”

According to Jude, while becoming a volunteer mentor has helped

her appreciate the satisfaction of shaping someone else’s experience of driving, contributing to a young person’s overall development has also been a rewarding by-product of the experience.

As Aye Point was raised in Thailand, Jude has helped her bridge the language barrier by supporting her to read and understand signs, while also increasing the complexity of the driving experience over time.

“I really love getting to know the learners as they’re at a stage of life where they are figuring out who they are,” she said.

“The first time I was driving really slowly but Jude has since told me how happy she is that I have improved,” Aye Point said, laughing.

This aspect of the mentor-learner relationship is obvious between Jude and her current learner, 20-year-old Aye Point Thada Htay. Like Jude, she loves cooking and sharing recipes, which has helped the pair forge a close bond.

“We are learning about each other, and I definitely feel that Jude has become a good friend,” Aye Point said.

The City coordinates the TAC funded L2P Program which is administered by the Department of Transport.

Interested in volunteering with the TAC L2P Program?

Scan the QR code.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 7

FAST FACTS Did you know?

INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITY’S FUTURE After two years of extra spending to help the local community recover from the impacts of the pandemic, our Council is aiming to bring the budget back from deficit.

Since 2020, Council has endorsed seven support packages worth an estimated $19 million to assist businesses, community groups and residents impacted by restrictions.

This has left our budget in deficit for two successive years.

Finance Portfolio Chair, Councillor Anthony Aitken, said Council was proud to have brought the budget back to a break-even position.

“Delivering a break-even budget straight after COVID-19, and in a rate capping environment of 1.75 per cent, is a major financial achievement for Council, while maintaining significant commitments and meeting the demands the continued population growth is placing on us.”

The program of spending is still substantial and will support a huge infrastructure program for the region.

2022–23 summary •

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As part of our long-term asset plan, we’re directing a greater share of funding year-on-year to improve the condition of ageing assets across Greater Geelong, including sport and recreation facilities, playgrounds, libraries, footpaths and streetscapes ($45.6 million in 2022–23).

We’re investing in new libraries, community hubs, cultural facilities and early years centres as a means of connecting people to the services and programs they need.

We’re increasing our uptake of renewable energy, LED street lighting and zero-emission vehicles to improve our environment and reduce our costs, while also providing climate change grants to support the community.

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We’re supporting initiatives like public Wi-Fi and an enhanced broadband program, and embracing smart technology to support a strong local economy.

activities.

Find out more about the 2022–23 Budget.

Every year 6.4 million people visit Greater Geelong.

To manage our debt levels and support our growing population, Council is considering selling four properties that are not in our long-term plans, and are likely to attract interest given they all host commercial

Pictured: Co-Founder of Bay Leaf Community Kitchen, Martin Rowan

Pictured: Concept image of the planned Armstrong Creek Library and Community Hub

GRANT FOR SOLAR PANELS INCREASES RELIEF An environmental sustainability grant for solar panels is helping this food relief organisation do a whole lot more than just keep the lights on.

Although it’s fairly new to the food relief scene, the Bay Leaf Community Kitchen has made a lot of progress since it started in 2020.

Providing fresh meals and food hampers to 64 families experiencing hardship, the organisation will soon be opening a new kitchen and drivethrough relief centre in Breakwater – an achievement made possible by funding and donations provided by a range of local organisations.

According to charity co-founder, Martin Rowan, the drive-through element of the service was always part of the plan. “There can be stigma involved in fronting up to ask for help. We want to provide a drive-through service so people can get support without having to get out of their car,” he explained.

As part of the 2021–22 Community Grants program, the Council provided the charity with a $10,000 grant to install 24 solar panels and power to

the new kitchen. The running costs saved will help the charity do more for local families in need.

“The need right now is enormous.

The money we’re saving families on food can be spent on bills like rent, gas, and electricity,” Martin said.

In the same year, we also provided a $6,450 grant to help the organisation film cooking tutorials for families in need – a project that speaks to the broader ethos of the service.

“IT’S ABOUT SO MUCH MORE THAN FOOD – IT’S ABOUT GETTING TO KNOW PEOPLE AND PROVIDING THEM WITH LOVE AND SUPPORT.” Visit geelongaustralia.com.au/grants for more on our Community Grants Program.

The median house price in our region is $786,000.

In the 2022– 23 financial year we’re investing $46 million on roads, footpaths, kerb and channel and drains.

The City manages 1380.8 hectares of protected natural habitat.

Spend in Greater Geelong during the March 2022 quarter was $1.4 billion. This is the second highest quarterly spend on record.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 9

A NEW CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AT WURRIKI NYAL With a new appointment booking system and a selfservice hub, our new customer service centre at Wurriki Nyal is designed to give you the help you need, when you need it.

Pictured: Concept design of the new customer service centre at Wurriki Nyal

Pictured: Kevin Hoffman Walk

The Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct is rapidly taking shape in Mercer Street and we’re particularly looking forward to inviting everyone in to our new customer service centre.

Due to open for business in early September, the centre will feature a self-service hub we’ll use to guide you through using our online services. You will also be able to easily book appointments with members of our building, engineering and planning teams, either in-person or virtually, and make cashless payments for fees, including rates and pet registration.

The customer service centre at Wurriki Nyal is being shaped around our new approach to customer experience. As part of this work, we’re also investing more in our online and telephone service, and improving face-to-face services in Corio and Drysdale to better meet the needs of customers with personal or complex needs.

WURRIKI NYAL MEANS TO ‘SPEAK AND TALK TOGETHER’ IN WADAWURRUNG LANGUAGE.

WURRIKI NYAL - OUR NEW CIVIC PRECINCT Wurriki Nyal is located at 137149 Mercer Street, Geelong and will include 2,600 square metres of new community spaces, our main office and customer service centre.

How can I access services?

DID YOU KNOW…?

The new Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct will feature permanent art installations by three Wadawurrung artists – Billy-Jay O’Toole, Deanne Gilson and Kait James – and all the works have been inspired by Wadawurrung Country and culture.

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Pictured: These fins, designed by BillyJay O’Toole, feature waves and circles to represent the meeting of the saltwater of Corio Bay with the region’s freshwater rivers and creeks.

Pictured: Beverley Hoffman

LARA’S HIDDEN GEM: THE KEVIN HOFFMAN WALK Running alongside the eastern banks of Hovells Creek, between Station Lake Road and Flinders Avenue, is one of the region’s most tranquil, yet little-known spots.

How can I get there?

Wurriki Nyal is a 5-minute walk from Geelong Railway and Bus Station and is connected to the central Geelong bike network too. On-street parking is available on Gheringhap Street, Brougham Street or Bayley Street. Larger carparks are a short walk away at Western Beach and in central Geelong.

Wurriki Nyal is replacing our customer service centre at 100 Brougham Street, which will permanently close from 5pm on Friday 2 September.

Pictured: President of the Friends of Kevin Hoffman Walk, Greg Wilson

“KEVIN’S LOVE OF THE GARDENS WAS AN OBSESSION MORE THAN A PASSION.”

You can visit our website at geelongaustralia.com.au, or call us on 03 5272 5272, 8am–5pm (Monday to Friday). You can also visit us in-person at our customer service centres including Wurriki Nyal, Corio Shopping Centre and Drysdale (inside the library).

The Kevin Hoffman Walk is a scenic trail featuring more than a thousand different species of native plants including 150 indigenous plants.

their gardens, everyone used to just think of cottage gardens and plant exotics.”

The trail is named after long-time Lara resident, 82-year-old Kevin Hoffman, who started beautifying the area when he and his wife moved in across the road in January 1970. Although he was a fitter and turner by trade, the garden allowed Kevin to pursue his love of horticulture and photography according to his wife, Beverley.

While Kevin hasn’t worked in the garden since moving into a nursing home in March, he still gives planting advice to members of the Friends of the Kevin Hoffman Walk. The group was formed in 2013 by neighbours, friends and other supporters. Current President and Treasurer, Greg and Linda Wilson, have lived next door to the Hoffmans since 1980.

“Kevin spent 80 or 90 hours a week out here each summer: planting, weeding, watering and building the paths and retaining walls,” she said.

“Kevin’s love of the gardens was an obsession more than a passion,” said Greg. “He just dedicated his life to it.”

“Back when he started, people didn’t think about putting native plants into

According to Greg, the walk is a haven for many native bird species, including honeyeaters, wattlebirds

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and superb fairy-wrens. He believes that one of the many benefits of the walk is that it gives wildlife from nearby Serendip Sanctuary somewhere to migrate.

“This walk is so worth protecting. It’s a tribute to the extremely hard work of one man over 45 years that has become such a great asset – not just to the people of Lara, but also to the Greater Geelong community.”

The City works in close partnership with the Friends group and each year provides funding for upgrades and maintenance of the walk.

Scan the QR code to find out more about the Kevin Hoffman Walk.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 11

THE GEELONG SMALL BUSINESS FESTIVAL IS BACK! We’re thrilled to be hosting the Geelong Small Business Festival again this August to support our business community.

IN BRIEF

Events, workshops and presentations will cover a range of topics, including: Pictured: Artist, Tanya Keenan

• marketing, social media and promoting your business online • business essentials • starting a business • growing your business, sales and expanding your networks • career development, leading and managing people

Now in its twelfth year, the region’s largest dedicated business festival features an exciting program of more than 50 low-cost and free events designed to connect, inspire, grow and support our local business community.

SNIPPETS/DID YOU KNOW?

Whether you’re experienced in business, a budding entrepreneur, or just starting out, the festival will give you the chance to hear from industry experts, upskill, expand your knowledge and make new business connections.

• health and wellbeing • sustainability and social responsibility.

Scan the QR code to explore this year’s program and book tickets.

GEELONG’S FIRST PUBLIC LANDMARK

IT’S TIME TO GET NAPPY HAPPY!

The original six-storey cast iron clocktower that stood in the centre of Market Square was erected in 1856, and was the first structure of its kind, housing only the clock and its mechanics. The clock was donated by Geelong Mayor, James Austin and stood in place until 1923.

Over 350 households participated in our Modern Reusable Nappy Program in April. Find out why more families are making the switch by visiting geelongcity.vic. gov.au/reusablenappies

Follow us on social media (CityofGreaterGeelong) for weekly local history facts and stories #greatergeelonghistory

SAFER STREETS FOR LEOPOLD LOCALS We recently installed new solarpowered lights and CCTV cameras at a range of locations around Leopold, including Gateway Sanctuary, the Bellarine Rail Trail and selected bus stops.

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Keep up your Vitamin D levels this winter by pulling on a beanie and getting out to enjoy our beautiful region. Visit geelongaustralia. com.au/embracethespace for inspiration.

A VENUE FOR EVERY OCCASION Planning a spring wedding? From the Geelong Botanic Gardens to the Carousel, we’ve got a local venue suitable for every type of occasion.

Find out more at geelongaustralia. com.au/weddings

COMMUNITY GREEN ACHIEVERS ANNOUNCED

More than 50 events to support local businesses Book now at gsbf.com.au

Connect. Inspire. Grow.

EMBRACE THE CHILL

Scott | Liberty Adviser

Congratulations to joint Climate Action Award winners from Geelong Sustainability, Dan Cowdell, and Steve Turnock and Megan Discher, Waste Reduction Award winner, Geelong Sustainability, and Biodiversity Protection Award winner, Friends of the Bellarine Rail Trail. Find out more at geelongaustralia.com.au/ greenachiever

Pictured: Vicki Perrett, Dan Cowdell and Emilie Flynn.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 13

OUR ROAD TO SUSTAINABILITY

RECYCLED ROADS Through our award-winning ‘Recycled Roads’ trial program, we’re reconstructing local roads using products that contain recycled materials such as plastics, crushed glass and tyres.

We’re also sorting and recycling old road materials – including asphalt, fine crushed rock and concrete kerbing – for use in other projects.

This means we’re cutting down on the volume of waste being sent to landfill and reducing our carbon footprint.

At one of our latest trials, in Maple Place, Waurn Ponds, our highly efficient road construction process saw carbon emissions cut by up to 30 per cent.

As trials continue, we’ll assess the benefits of a range of sustainable products and methods, with a view to making them part of our standard practice.

Pictured: Cr Jim Mason with Adam Mowlam, our Manager Smart Cities

Pictured: Mathew Trezise, Senior Program Officer Engineering Services

While sustainability is a bit of a buzz word these days, it’s something we take very seriously at the City.

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New membership options now available

When we talk about sustainability, it means delivering the best outcomes for our people, our environment and our economy. While this can be a tricky balance, we think we must be doing something right after winning the overall Keep Victoria Beautiful 2021 Sustainable City award in December last year.

Here are some more recent examples of how we’re incorporating environmental sustainability into our everyday business.

DATA FOR SMARTER SUSTAINABILITY We’re trialling emerging technologies and sharing data with the community to help respond to climate change and protect our local environment.

In 24 locations across Greater Geelong, temperature and humidity sensors are generating microclimate data to track how our climate is changing. This data is helping us plan for the future, and it’s also being

used during summer to protect the important native pollinator, the Greyheaded Flying Fox, which is severely affected by heat stress.

We’ve also created new ways for both representing and collecting data related to sustainability. As part of our Hollow Hunt project, residents are finding and recording tree hollows suitable for local wildlife in streets and reserves across the municipality. The hollows are then mapped as part of our Urban Forest Dashboard, which also tracks data related to city-managed trees.

This work is guided by the Smart City Strategic Framework, which sets out our plan to embrace innovation and make purposeful technology choices for our community.

Interested in joining the Hollow Hunt?

Scan the QR code to learn more.

NORTHERN AQUATIC AND COMMUNITY HUB The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub in Norlane is our largest ever community infrastructure project. Council has recently put sustainability at its heart by allocating an additional $4 million so the facility will be powered by renewable electricity throughout.

Annually, this change from gas to electricity will cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 1,700 tonnes and save at least $150,000 in operating costs, bringing us a step closer to our goal of net zero operational emissions by 2025. It does this by taking advantage of the Victorian Energy Collaboration that is allowing us, and 45 partner municipalities, to operate with 100 per cent renewable energy through to at least 2030.

To find out more about the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub visit geelongaustralia.com.au/ northernhub/ COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 15

MAKE A SMALL CHANGE FOR PLASTIC FREE JULY

WE’RE ENGAGED!

Pictured: Concept image showing the recreation area of the new Waurn Ponds Skate Park.

According to the United Nations, one million plastic bottles are bought every minute, but less than 10 per cent of global plastic is recycled.

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people become part of the solution to plastic waste. Even small changes can make a huge difference to your plastic footprint, so here are some tips to get you started: •

Avoid packaging when you shop. Take your own containers and choose items without packaging. Next best is choosing items with little or easy-to-recycle packaging. Avoid polystyrene or hard-to-recycle tetrapak cartons. Vote with your dollar and tell manufacturers this is the packaging you want.

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Say no to single-use items.

From coffee cups to plastic forks, many of these are expensive to recycle and end up in landfill. Start small by choosing one type of singleuse item you can replace with a reusable alternative.

Keep plastic bags out of your recycling bin. These are the biggest cause of contamination in recycling, and often result in other recyclables being sent to landfill.

Start recycling plastic bags by dropping them at REDcycle bins when you shop at Coles or Woolworths supermarkets.

RETHINK YOUR RUBBISH AND WIN! Are compostable bin liners better for the environment?

How do I start composting food waste at home?

Got questions about living a lowwaste lifestyle?

Scan the QR code to sign up for our Rethink Your Rubbish newsletter by 12 August 2022 and you’ll go into the draw to win a pet poo composter. Terms and Conditions apply.

Find out how to recycle common plastic items with our recycling guide.

During the past 12 months, we asked the community for their views on 195 projects via our online ‘Have Your Say’ page.

Our Council is committed to making decisions that reflect the views and values of the people they represent.

Key to achieving this is authentic community engagement – a process that involves asking the community for their views on issues that might affect, impact or interest them.

We seek input on all major strategies, plans and projects through a range of methods – both face-to-face and online.

Here’s some examples of how your feedback has helped shape two key projects, both funded by the City in partnership with the Victorian Government:

park, provide a warm and welcoming feel, reflect the local heritage and embed accessibility, flexibility, and environmental sustainability.

The community also requested improved way-finding signage to direct residents to the library.

We’re now using your insights in the next stage of design, with the community to be given another opportunity to have its say later in 2022.

Waurn Ponds Skate Park upgrade

We’re working closely with the Geelong Regional Library Corporation and the Chilwell Library Group to redevelop this important community venue, with funding contributions from the Council and the Victorian Government.

We sought feedback on our initial concept plan in June 2021. We incorporated community feedback by modifying the park to cater for a wider range of riding disciplines and skill levels. We also added new features, including a new street drain area, a new snake-run bowl and an improved street plaza and youth active recreation area. Construction is scheduled to begin soon.

More than 1,127 people provided their input on a preliminary concept design, including a lot of feedback about the desire to connect the library with the

Have your say about plans and projects impacting your local area by visiting yoursay.geelongaustralia. com.au

Chilwell Library redevelopment

WIN A $50 GIFT CARD Tell us what you think about this edition of Community Update and you could win one of four Coles Group & Myer $50 gift cards. Closes 15 August.

COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 17

Pictured: Royal Geelong Show

Pictured: Victorian Teachers’ Games

ON NOW! Until 13 Nov Wadawurrung Dja: Awakening Country – The Art of Deanne Gilson, National Wool Museum Until 1 Dec Museum Explorers - Sensory Stories and Rhymes, National Wool Museum

JULY VICTORIAN TEACHERS’ GAMES 18–21 September 2022 Various locations Up to 3,000 educational professionals from across the state will be competing in this multi-sport event over four days at various locations across the region.

Pictured: White Night Geelong was last held in 2018

ROYAL GEELONG SHOW MAJOR EVENTS RETURN TO GREATER GEELONG

In the wake of the pandemic, we’ve been working closely with event organisers to bring major events back to the region. Following are some highlights of the upcoming season: White Night Geelong, 8 October 2022 Experience the sparkle and spectacle of White Night Geelong as streets, laneways, parks and the foreshore are lit up with colourful projections and installations that pay respect to our region’s past and present.

This spectacular cultural event was last held in Geelong in 2018 with more than 70,000 people injecting $6.1 million into our economy.

18 | geelongaustralia.com.au

2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Credit: International Cricket Council – CWC19

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, starting 16 October Geelong is the only regional city in Australia hosting games as part of this global sporting celebration of cricket, culture and community.

The event is expected to bring thousands of visitors to our region, with matches featuring Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates and Namibia. Starts 16 October.

30 Let’s Be Frank and Bobby Darin Tribute, Potato Shed

UPCOMING EVENTS IN YOUR LOCAL AREA Pictured: Geelong Cup

13–16 October 2022 Geelong Showgrounds

Greater Geelong residents can look forward to a packed calendar of events this spring.

The return of White Night Geelong in October will kick-off a bumper month of events, including the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup and the return of local favourites the Royal Geelong Show and the Geelong Cup.

24 Battle on the Barwon Dragon Boat Event, Barwon River

AUGUST 1 150th Anniversary celebration of the NWM Building, National Wool Museum 1-31 Geelong Small Business Festival, various locations 5-7 Geelong Book Fair, Geelong West Town Hall 7 Growers and Makers Market, Steampacket Gardens 13-14 Gymnastics Victoria GFA Showcase, Geelong Arena 21 Margaret Fulton: the Musical, Potato Shed

The largest regional show in Victoria is finally back in 2022 with a great range of agricultural displays and activities for the whole family.

SEPTEMBER 9 Dave Cosma & Charles Jenkins World Tour of Australia, Potato Shed

GEELONG CUP

18-21 Victorian Teachers’ Games, various locations

19 October 2022 Geelong Racecourse Pictured: Geelong Cup

OCTOBER

Early planning for the 2026 Commonwealth Games is now underway as the region prepares to host aquatics, beach volleyball, gymnastics, hockey, triathlon and paratriathlon, T20 cricket, table tennis and para-table tennis.

Racegoers will return to the track after a two-year break, with prize money of more than $400,000 up for grabs for the winning horse.

The Games are expected to attract over 5,000 athletes from more than 70 nations to venues across four regional hubs in Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland.

29-30 October 2022 Potato Shed

16 Dahlin! It’s Jeanne Little, Potato Shed

Spookfest returns with a weekend of free Spooky Halloween-festival fun.

Saturday night is all about adults (with a sneak peak of the Haunted House), followed by our family-friendly fun-day on Sunday, with food vans, games and entertainment.

16, 18, 20 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, Kardinia Park

Scan the QR code to find out more about upcoming events.

2 Kids + Kites Festival, Rippleside Park 8 White Night Geelong, central Geelong 13-16 Royal Geelong Show, Geelong Showgrounds

SPOOKFEST

15-16 Gymnastics Vic State Championships, Geelong Arena

19 Geelong Cup, Geelong Racecourse 20 Mayor for a Day, Potato Shed Pictured: Spookfest

WHAT’S ON? For the latest event information, please visit eventsgeelong.com.au

20-23 October Oceania Fistball Championships, East Belmont Saints Baseball Club 21-23 Gymnastics Vic State Championships, Geelong Arena 29-30 Spookfest, Potato Shed COMMUNITY UPDATE - JULY 2022 | 19

LOCAL INFLUENCERS SHARING #MYGEELONG Tag #MyGeelong for your chance to be featured here and in our social media!

1. Ferris Wheel, Waterfront Geelong, photo by @chriswilkensphotography

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2. Cowies Creek Rail Bridge, Bell Post Hill, photo by @themit91 3. Hot Air Balloon over Highton, photo by @laura.nataliaa 4. Sunset over the bay, Clifton Springs, photo by @willkephoto Have a cracker shot that showcases something uniquely Geelong? Don’t miss the chance to also be featured in our 2023 Calendar, visit www. geelongaustralia.com.au/calendar

WIN a taste OFWITHOUR REGION! A $200 Gift Card!

Always be kind. Our team is here to make your interaction with the City a positive experience.

Use at one of hundreds of restaurants across Greater Geelong to support local business and taste our amazing region!

Visit www.itsourbackyard.com.au to enter.

V isit

Loryn

Animal & Information Services Officer Win a taste of our region competition closes 15 August 2022. T&Cs apply. Winners will be contacted privately and announced in City News.

CITY OF GREATER GEELONG

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