Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

KINGSTON Your City SPRING 2021

kingston.vic.gov.au

PAGE 7

Kingston Seniors Festival

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Our new Community Vision

CONTACT US kingston.vic.gov.au cityofkingston kingstoncc kingstoncouncil

NEWS

Our new Vision developed by the

community

kingstoncitycouncil info@kingston.vic.gov.au PO Box 1000, Mentone, 3194 Bunurong Country CUSTOMER CARE 1300 653 356 COUNCIL MEETINGS Subject to restrictions, everyone is welcome to attend our Council Meetings at 1230 Nepean Highway Cheltenham on: Monday 27 September, Monday 25 October and Monday 22 November at 7pm.

Planning Committee Meetings will be held on Wednesday 15 September, Wednesday 20 October and Wednesday 17 November at 7pm.

WATCH LIVE View our Council Meetings live at stream.kingston.vic.gov.au.

You can also access earlier meetings you may have missed.

Some of the community members who took part in the Panel.

Our Community Vision statement: Kingston is a resilient, inclusive and diverse community. We are building the most liveable and sustainable city in Victoria.

We champion and nurture our green and open spaces creating

a safe, healthy environment.

Our shared legacy connects our community, embracing innovation, making Kingston the place to live.

KINGSTON YOUR CITY EDITOR comms@kingston.vic.gov.au Kingston encourages you to reprint articles and photographs from this publication but permission must first be sought from the Editor. Acknowledgement of the source must be provided.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Council acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this land, the Bunurong peoples of the Kulin nation. We also acknowledge the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

COVER PHOTO Aspendale Seniors Citizens Club members Sheila Mulder (left) and Fran Baldock enjoy some Spring sun on Aspendale beach.

Photographs in this edition were taken at varying times, with requirements for masks followed at all times.

Kingston has a new Community Vision with a focus on building the most liveable and sustainable city in Victoria.

Developed by a representative community panel with feedback from many thousands more who live and work in Kingston, the vision sets out the long-term aspirations of our community and provides a set of principles to guide our decision making.

The vision will help us build a Kingston that meets the needs and aspirations of the community into the future.

It focuses on inclusiveness, diversity, resilience, protecting our natural environment, thriving businesses and embracing innovation.

The panel spent more than 2000 hours developing the vision and underpinning principles that will ensure Kingston is the best place to live, work and play now and into the future.

The Panel also developed a series of recommendations for Council’s strategic plans – including our four-year Council Plan, Public Health and Wellbeing Plan and 10-year plans for how we manage the city’s finances and assets.

You can review those plans and provide feedback at yourkingstonyoursay.com.au The Community Vision report can be accessed at kingston.vic.gov.au/vision

NEWS

Kingston Budget focuses on building a strong, connected community Kingston has adopted a Budget for 2021–2022 which prioritises high-quality services and maintaining vital infrastructure, while investing in exciting new projects that will help to strengthen our community.

Artist’s impression of the Mentone Life Saving Club redevelopment, a joint-project with $11.2 million funded in the Kingston Budget 2021-22.

Your Rates explained Your rates fund over 100 services across Kingston, including libraries, leisure centres, immunisations, bin collections and meals on wheels deliveries – to name just a few. Providing all these services costs more than the total rates we collect, with further funding provided through government grants plus other fees collected.

Your share of the total rates amount is set by the value of your property. People with higher valued properties pay a greater share than others. Properties are independently valued each year.

The Budget aims to build a strong, connected community and includes an ambitious $75 million capital works program.

• Ensuring that local sports clubs are accessible for all, providing sporting facilities for women and girls.

Highlights of this Budget include:

• Major investment in important community facilities such as lifesaving clubs and improving Scout/Girl Guide halls to ensure they are accessible.

• Extending Outdoor Dining permits and no interest on overdue rates for the 2021/22 financial year to help alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic for our community and businesses.

• Greening Kingston with a $370,000 investment in planting 2,442 new street and park trees as part of Council’s Climate and Ecological Emergency response.

Plant Giveaway Kingston’s ‘free tree voucher’ for residents has been replaced with an annual plant giveaway in Autumn! We’ve doubled the number of plants available and you’ll now be able to choose from native trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers.

Subscribe to Kingston’s ‘Our Place’ eNews for updates or call 1300 653 356 to register your interest.

• Renewal of Council’s core assets such as footpaths, roads and drains.

View the Budget online at kingston.vic.gov.au/budget

Rate cap The rates we collect are capped each year by the Minister for Local Government. The Victorian Government has determined a rate cap of 1.5% this year. This means that local councils can only increase the average amount of rates and municipal charge collected by 1.5%. It is important to note that the rate cap does not mean that rates for each individual property will increase by 1.5%, the cap applies to the average rates bill, not individual properties.

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Did you know?

Your rates help provide financial support to notfor-profit groups, artists and sporting clubs through a variety of annual grant programs.

Find out about some of this year’s recipients on pages 8 & 9.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 3

WASTE

KEEPING KINGSTON BEAUTIFUL Rubbish is a part of life - but by reducing what we buy, reusing items and recycling as much waste as possible we can work together to keep Kingston clean and reduce our impact on the environment.

Help stamp out illegal dumping While most people do the right thing, unfortunately we have seen an increase in illegally dumped rubbish. Council spends at least $200,000 each year removing dumped rubbish from local streets, parks and other open spaces. People found guilty of dumping rubbish face fines of over $6000 and Kingston Council actively investigates dumped rubbish to identify its origin. We have CCTV cameras that are moved around key dumping hot spots in industrial areas and our Green Wedge and have caught illegal dumpers.

If you spot someone dumping rubbish, note down as much detail as possible including the location, time and any information that could help identify the offender (i.e. vehicle make/ type, colour and registration plates). Make a report online at kingston.vic. gov.au or phone 1300 653 356.

Pass on working items to op shops or hold a garage sale Donate old clothes and other items that are still in good working order to a local op shop or sign up for the annual Garage Sale Trail (Dependent on current COVID restrictions) garagesaletrail.com.au

中国人 Kingston市一年提供一次免费的大件垃圾收 集服务，同时也随时提供用户付费垃圾收集 服务。若要预订垃圾收集服务或了解更多信 息请点击此处 kingston.vic.gov.au/hardwaste 或拨打电话 1300 653 356.

Page 4 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

Dispose of rubbish in Kingston’s Annual Hard Waste collection Your free annual hard waste collection will be held in September/October and is the perfect chance to correctly dispose of broken and unwanted items.

Council provides one free hard waste rubbish collection held each year in September/ October. As a Kingston resident, you can also book extra on-call collections at a time of your choosing for just $62.50. kingston.vic.gov.au/hard-waste

Put rubbish in the bin when you’re out and about Council provides bins along our beaches, in parks and in local shopping precincts so please pop your rubbish in the bin when using our public spaces.

We know these areas have been super busy during lockdown as people stay close to home, in response Council has increased how often we clear out the bins.

We’re also trialling new QR code stickers to let the community alert us when public bins are full.

It will send a message straight to our collectors for a speedy response.

Put food scraps in your green-lid garden waste bin You’ve done a great job popping leftover food scraps in your green-lid bins since the service was introduced last year. We’ve saved over 1300 tonnes of waste from going to landfill and sent an extra 3000 tonnes of food and garden waste on for composting than the previous year.

In the past, food waste filled up over half the red-lid bin on average each week.

The new service is a big win for the environment by diverting food waste from landfill and turning it into high-quality compost.

See more ea:bout food wast Recycle, Recycle, Recycle Remember to recycle items by putting approved items in your yellow-lid recycling bin.

Next time you visit Coles or Woolworths, take your soft plastics (i.e. bread bags) with you. You can drop them off in the plastics recycling bins at the front of their stores. In 2020, a massive 27 tonnes of soft plastic were recycled from our local stores.

Ελληνικά

русски

Ο Δήμος Kingston παρέχει ετήσια δωρεάν αποκομιδή ογκωδών απορριμμάτων, καθώς επίσης και αποκομιδές επί πληρωμή. Για να κάνετε κράτηση για αποκομιδή ή για να μάθετε περισσότερα κάνετε κλικ εδώ kingston. vic.gov.au/hard-waste ή καλέστε το 1300 653 356.

Муниципалитет Kingston предоставляет услуги по сбору крупногабаритного мусора: один раз в год бесплатно, а также за плату по заказу. Чтобы заказать сбор отходов или получить более подробную информацию, перейдите по ссылке здесь: kingston.vic. gov.au/hard-waste или позвоните по тел.

1300 653 356.

NEWS

Major works hit town Major works are underway on the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal projects in Bonbeach, Chelsea and Edithvale.

The works will involve a number of station closures, traffic disruptions and detours until the project is completed in late 2021.

Edithvale, Chelsea and Bonbeach stations are now closed with the Edithvale Road, Edithvale level crossing also closed until an expected reopening in October.

If you have questions about the project including construction work, truck routes, noise impacts or works schedule please contact the Level Crossing Removal Project helpline on 1800 105 105 or email contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au Two more Level Crossings in Kingston set to be removed The Victorian Government has announced it will be removing the crossings at Warrigal Road, Mentone and Parkers Road, Parkdale. Council is not responsible for this project but will pass on our community’s views. Have your say at yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ lxrp2021

Subject to COVID restrictions, Spring Fair will be returning to Keeley Park soon. Keep an eye on our website and social media for more information!

Council has given in-principle support to contribute $5m to the new oval which will have dedicated hours set aside for community sport.

Sport is booming in our region with growing participation particularly in footy played by women and girls. The new community oval and pavilion will help transform a former landfill in the Green Wedge site into much-needed community facilities to serve generations to come.

Council’s in-principle support is subject to a legally-binding arrangement guaranteeing 20-30 hours per week of community access, plus Victorian Government funding support being secured.

kingston.vic.gov.au

Fire pit law review

Council is now reviewing the Local Law, with the aim of allowing residents to use a fire pit to provide heat on their property, but with controls. These would include maintaining a safe distance to neighbouring properties and

Kingston Council and the Hawks are working towards a partnership to boost local footy with plans for a new community oval at Hawthorn’s Dingley Village headquarters.

The project is a cost-effective way to meet the growing demand for sporting facilities as developing sporting facilities like this would cost Council around $15 million if we were to go it alone.

Spring Fair returns!

When Council consulted with the community late last year on whether to repeal the ban on backyard fire pits, there was overwhelming community support.

New partnership kicks off

clearer definitions of types, makes and constructs of the firepits, to minimise health and safety risks.

Council will engage in further consultation before making any changes. We’ll also run an education campaign on the health and safety risks associated with using backyard fire pits.

For more information visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au

COVID-19 vaccinations Did you know there are a number of centres offering COVID-19 vaccine appointments? To book, call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 (For an interpreter, press 0).

You can also visit a participating GP or community health service - check your eligibility at: covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility

Roy Dore Reserve works The redeveloped pavilion at Roy Dore Reserve in Carrum has been officially launched.

The facility, developed in partnership with the Victorian Government, AFL Victoria, Cricket Australia, Cricket Victoria and local sporting clubs, is a large part of a $9 million redevelopment of the reserve and Council’s ongoing investment in community sport.

As part of the Roy Dore Reserve works, upgrades to the dog off-leash park are now getting underway. The area will soon be fully fenced, feature a granite path and dog nature play area along with a dogfriendly drinking fountain. kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 5

SENIORS FESTIVAL 2021

Making connections and celebrating being seniors. From L to R: Jan Woodward, Fran Baldock and John Freeman. Background: Sheila Mulder and Terry Wanless.

SENIORS SERVICES EXPO In November, the City of Kingston will also be holding a Seniors Services Expo to link up our local seniors with various service providers to help them make informed choices about the range of services available.

The Expo will provide an opportunity to ask questions and collect promotional material.

When: Tuesday 23 November Where: Kingston City Hall Moorabbin.

To find out more call 1300 653 356.

Page 6 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

EVENTS

Celebrating our Kingston Seniors The Seniors Festival celebrates ageing positively and recognises the important contribution older people make to our community.

This year, the Seniors Festival is a time to safely connect with our community and celebrate what it means to be a Senior.

This year’s program includes more than 70 activities and events which provide opportunities for older people to get out and about, pick up a new skill, have fun and meet others.

Pick up your official Event Booklet!

Pick up your copy of the Seniors Festival Booklet to learn about all the events on offer, hear stories of active seniors, health and wellbeing information and stories from our local community. Booklets will be available from September 2021.

to online events. Contact event organisers for further information.

2021 2021

The Kingston Seniors Festival returns this October featuring a month-long program of free and low-cost events and activities for older people.

To find out more, including where to pick up a copy of the Booklet, visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ seniorsfestival Bookings open in September and are essential. Please note all events are subject to change in line with Victorian Government restrictions.

Where possible, we will transition

kingston.vic. gov.au/senio rsfestiva kingston l cityo u/seniorsfestival fkingsto.vic.gov.a n 130cityofking 0 653 356ston

1300 653 356

Festival Highlights LAUNCH EVENT

Yoga Active

Peter Sullivan Big Band and Scott Harrison on the Mighty Wurlitzer

Every Wednesday in October 11:30-12:30pm FREE

Friday 1 October 1-3pm $15 Kingston City Hall Join us for an afternoon of swing with the great Peter Sullivan Big Band. The event commences with a virtuoso performance on the Mighty Wurlitzer by organist Scott Harrison. The Kingston Seniors Festival will be launched at this event by Mayor, Cr Steve Staikos. Afternoon tea will be provided.

Wednesday 6 October 2-4pm FREE Parkdale Library Join the Mayor of Kingston, Cr Steve Staikos, in an afternoon of shared literature. Choose a snippet from your favourite book, poem or song to read aloud.

Saturday 23 October

Waves Leisure Centre

10am – 3pm

A class based on physical postures, deep breathing, mindfulness and listening to the body all at a modified pace for the 60+ demographic. Every Wednesday morning during the Festival.

Chelsea Activity Hub

Journey of a Lost Manuscript hosted by Kingston Libraries

Free public transport for Victorian Seniors Card holders

Thursday 14 October 2-3pm

Share with the Mayor hosted by Kingston Libraries

Chelsea Activity Hub Stitching and Craft Day

Dingley Village Library This amazing adventure could be straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Lorraine Smith’s discovery of a mysterious 16th century manuscript in her Warrnambool bookshop, led her on a journey across Australia and to the other side of the world

Hosted by Chelsea Activity Hub Crafty Crafters. Bring along your craft and quilting. Sewing machines supplied. BYO lunch.

Tea and coffee supplied.

Eight days of free public transport covering all metropolitan services, all V/line services and all regional town bus services will be provided to Victorian Seniors Card holders for the period Sunday 3 October to Sunday 10 October 2021 as part of the 2021 Victorian Seniors Festival.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 7

GRANTS

Council provides almost $2 million in grants to support the community Through a variety of annual grant programs, Kingston Council will be providing close to $2 million in support to community groups, social welfare groups, schools, theatres, artists and sporting clubs.

Council has awarded $1.6 million in grants to 177 local community groups, through Kingston’s Community Grants program.

Kingston’s Community Grants program is all about supporting our local not-for-profit groups and organisations to enable them to continue to provide services, opportunities and activities for all residents in Kingston.

With COVID-19 restrictions continuing to affect community members in 2021, the variety of needs of local community groups continues to be great.

Council is proud to continue providing support to those who provide emergency relief – and to help bolster community arts and theatre groups, that have been impacted by closures and cancellations throughout the recent lockdowns.

Legend of the Skies Theatre - $5,000 Kingston has a rich history in aviation. Legends Of The Skies (LOTS) Theatre shares the tales of the people and events who make up our city’s aviation history. Now in its ninth season, this annual theatre production is driven by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Legends of the Skies is due to perform in the Australian National Aviation Museum in Moorabbin in October 2021.

To book a ticket to see Legend of the Skies Theatre, contact by phone on 9580 2387

Mindful Makings - $3,300 A mental health program which builds a sense of inclusion for those who are secluded or isolated. Mindful Makings provides an opportunity for participants to experience belonging through low cost workshops and support groups.

It also aims to raise awareness of mental health issues, generate community inclusion and raise much-needed funds for charity organisations.

To find out more, please visit mindfulmakings.org

The Rotary Club of Mordialloc, Annual Gnome and Fairy Festival - $4,000 Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Annual Gnome and Fairy Festival had to be cancelled twice, (in 2020 and 2021). It is just one of several fundraisers which had to be put on hold by its organisers, the Rotary Club of Mordialloc.

Page 8 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

The Gnome and Fairy Festival is a fun event which brings magic to life for the whole family. Council is providing a $4,000 Community Grant to support its scheduled return on 13 March 2022.

For more, visit mordiallocrotary.org.au

Charitable Fund Grants Since its inception in 2007, Kingston’s Charitable Fund Grant Program has provided more than $720,000 in funding to 66 charities and 157 projects.

2021 recipients include the Cancer Patients Foundation ($12,000).

The City of Kingston was happy to provide a grant to support the cost of the Foundation’s ‘Look Good Feel Better’ program. It provides face-to-face workshops, home delivered Confidence Kits and online workshops to people diagnosed with cancer.

The Cancer Patients Foundation’s Look Good Feel Better Program has received $12,000, through the 2021 Kingston Charitable Fund Grants Program.

Arts Grants Recipients of the 2021 Arts Grants will be announced as we go to print, with Councillors selecting recipients at the August Council Meeting.

The City of Kingston provides Annual Arts Grants of up to $5,000 to individual and communitybased arts projects; and $1,000 Arts Grants are made available for residencies and mentorships.

Visit kingstonarts.com.au for details.

WOMAN OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS OPENING SOON

2020 Arts Grant recipient Michael Vale presents a group exhibition It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry, which features Kara Baldwin’s Philosophish.

Our 2021 Kingston Woman of the Year Award nominees.

The annual Kingston Woman of the Year Award celebrates the outstanding contribution that women in Kingston make to industry, community, and society.

If you know a local woman who deserves to be recognised, visit our website from 1 October 2021 to submit your nomination.

For further information visit kingston.vic.gov.au/kwa or contact the Community Projects Officer on 9581 4648.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 9

Ward News

Bunjil Ward | Caruana Ward

Making our voices heard Although Council will not have the final say about the future of the former Kingswood Golf Course site in Dingley Village, we have been working with the local community to ensure their voices are heard by the Victorian Government.

Mayor Steve Staikos and Caruana Ward Councillor George Hua on the boundary of the former Kingswood Golf Course site.

CR STEVE STAIKOS

CR GEORGE HUA

0447 896 643 steve.staikos@kingston.vic.gov.au

0429 171 449 george.hua@kingston.vic.gov.au

Illegally Dumped Rubbish We need your help to keep our neighbourhoods clean and to report those who have dumped rubbish. It is an offence for a person to just dump unwanted rubbish on their nature strip. Council will collect the rubbish as quickly as possible, but if you see it happening please consider taking photos as the evidence will assist officers in their investigations and potential prosecutions.

To make a report call 1300 653 356.

Kingston residents who have a domestic waste service can book a hard waste collection for $62.50 per booking. There is no excuse to dump rubbish as this is cheaper and more convenient than going to the tip or transfer station.

Food Organics Green Organics Kingston is committed to reducing waste to landfill, but we need your help. Council has rolled out kitchen caddies and compostable bags to all residents who have a greenlidded bin. Please ensure all food waste ends up in your green bin, that way it can be composted and used in parks and gardens rather than being dumped in a putrescible tip.

Advanced Waste Processing Kingston has joined with a group of 15 councils in our region to seek proposals for a smarter way to deal with household rubbish. The project will deliver an alternative to landfill that will transform how household rubbish is managed by putting it to good use, instead of burying it in the ground. Advanced waste processing will be even more important as landfills in our region fill up. We will keep our community informed as the project progresses.

Page 10 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

I have been speaking to many of you lately about the proposed redevelopment of the former Kingswood Golf Course. I know our local community is very passionate about what happens to the Kingswood site and, like you, I am very concerned about this latest application.

I am concerned about the potential loss of trees and the threat to the natural species this site is home to. I am also concerned about the size and scope of the redevelopment; more than 800 lots with a very small average lot size and a significant amount of proposed three storey dwellings that is inconsistent with Dingley Village.

If this proposed redevelopment goes ahead, we are looking at an approx. 20% increase to Dingley’s population with no thought given to providing the necessary infrastructure and amenities for those additional people.

The Victorian Government’s decision to establish the Golf Course Redevelopment Standing Advisory Committee has ensured that Council won’t have the final say about the future of the site. We have only been able to make a submission, like you. However, I want to thank all of you for putting in your submissions because it is critical that the SAC and the State Government hear your voice!

One thing COVID-19 has taught us is to appreciate the community we have around us and our parks, open spaces, and environment. It’s more important than ever that we speak out to protect those things we are passionate about preserving.

Earlier this year, the Minister for Planning decided to refer a proposed Planning Scheme Amendment and Planning Permit Application for the site to the State Government’s Golf Course Redevelopment Standing Advisory Committee. This application will allow housing development at the site.

Council has made a very comprehensive submission to the Standing Advisory Committee and we encouraged the community to all make submissions too and ensure they had their say on the future of this very special site in the heart of Dingley Village. We will continue to keep you updated but you can also find out more at planning. vic.gov.au (search for Golf Course Advisory).

City of Kingston Wards!

OAKLEIGH SOUTH

CLAYTON SOUTH

Bunjil Ward MOORABBIN CLARINDA

Karkarook Ward HIGHETT

Caruana Ward HEATHERTON

Wattle Ward CHELTENHAM

Chicquita Ward

MENTONE

MOORABBIN AIRPORT

DINGLEY VILLAGE

Como Ward Melaleuca Ward PARKDALE

BRAESIDE MORDIALLOC

Yammerbook Ward

WATERWAYS ASPENDALE GARDENS ASPENDALE

Sandpiper Ward EDITHVALE CHELSEA HEIGHTS

CHELSEA

Scan here :

Longbeach Ward

BONBEACH

Banksia Ward CARRUM

PATTERSON LAKES

Ward News

Wattle Ward | Longbeach Ward | Banksia Ward

CR JENNA DAVEY-BURNS

CR GEORGINA OXLEY

CR CAMERON HOWE

0437 859 749 jenna.davey-burns@kingston.vic.gov.au

0429 222 504 georgina.oxley@kingston.vic.gov.au

0429 498 028 cameron.howe@kingston.vic.gov.au

Hello Highett and Cheltenham! Another tough winter with our community rallying to support one another. Thank you for your efforts.

Some updates to share with you: Safety is really important to me. I helped Council staff with a community consultation held after dark at Cheltenham’s Jean Street Reserve - securing proper lighting is my priority. I also advocated for wheel stops at the Follett Road shops after a recent accident.

As a passionate supporter of the Arts, I‘m working with fellow Arts Committee Councillors Howe and Bearsley to develop a dedicated Kingston Arts budget. I can’t think of a time where we have needed it more – to come together, support our artists and our economy.

I loved visiting Highett Junior and Senior Football Club in between lockdowns 5 and 6 - seeing the kids running their hearts out was just wonderful. I also want to recognise the efforts of the Highett Kindergarten Parent Advisory Committee who have contributed an immense amount over the years. We have been busy planning the Highett Kindergarten farewell and I want the parent committee to know how valued they are!

To the 462 small businesses out there in Wattle Ward, I hope you got my letter recently. Ensuring our business community are supported to thrive is another important issue for me, please reach out and let me know.

Finally don’t forget to keep an eye out for Councillor coffee catchups so you can pop down to say hi!

Upgrades to the Longbeach Trail If you’ve been getting out and about in our local parks during recent lockdowns you may have noticed the upgrades to the Longbeach Trail happening. Council is resurfacing the granitic sand path, widening the path in some places, and providing some safety improvements along the trail.

The works are being progressed in three stages and will occur along the whole length of the trail. Hope to see you out bike riding or walking along the new trail soon!

Upgrades to our Scout Halls I’ve been so pleased to work with the Scouts over the past few years to advocate for upgrades to their halls including disability works to ensure scouting is accessible to everyone, security upgrades, and general upgrades. At our July Council Meeting, we approved another round of funding for extra upgrades to the halls across Kingston. Our Scouts in Kingston provide a wonderful service to our community and the programs do so much to help engage young people and build life-long skills for the future. Thanks to our Scouts and the dedicated leaders from all across Kingston and beyond.

LXRP Works – Shop Local The level crossing removal works are now well underway with crossing and road closures throughout Edithvale, Chelsea, and Bonbeach; so please allow for plenty of extra time when travelling. I know that the traffic is frustrating – but please support our local traders during this challenging time.

They need your support so SHOP LOCAL.

Hello Patterson Lakes, Carrum and Bonbeach residents, my previous motions introducing mental health programs and economic development marketing have advanced along with planning policy reviews. I’ve been committed to getting results and since election have raised, 160+ councillor requests and 1500+ maintenance (mostly vandalism) reports.

Summary: my eighth motion, ahead of the state election plans and costs upgrades including a pavilion for Bonbeach YCW, while the new Bonbeach LSC will open by summer and the new Bonbeach main oval lights are operational. The Patterson Lakes (PL) beach maintenance agreement and the overdue PL plaza boardwalk project are being reviewed, while a new boat will be funded for the Peninsula Dragonflies.

A fenced dog park is coming to Roy Dore Reserve (Carrum) this year, which in 2022 will be joined by two new netball courts, along with tennis clubhouse and court upgrades. Carrum SLSC’s extension and refurbishments will begin in 2022, and 21/22 funding of food-bank Pantry 5000 will increase by 71%. A Launching Way footpath is proceeding as Patterson River discussions progress with state agencies.

As an arts committee member, my ninth motion introduces Kingston’s inaugural public art budget assisting with progressing a Patterson River sculpture trail. Meanwhile as a bay watch committee member, the Coastal and Marine Management Plan is moving to consultation complimenting a 2022 Beauty Spot park plan. NB: If you can, support our niche eateries running up to 70% losses under lockdowns. FB (pages): Cameron Howe IG: @camhowe.

Live music hub helps musicians get back on stage After an incredibly challenging period for Melbourne’s live music industry, there is finally some light with the recent launch of Kingston Arts’ new live music program, Live at City Hall.

The program, hosted in the iconic Kingston City Hall at Moorabbin, is attracting some of Australia’s premiere music acts to Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs and we’re proud to be supporting local and interstate musicians to get back up on stage.

The exciting program will also mean the local community will have the opportunity to enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant music scene, close to home. Check out kingstonarts.com.au for the full Live at City Hall program.

Cr Georgina Oxley, Cr Cameron Howe and Cr Jenna Davey-Burns get ready to see some live music at Kingston City Hall.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 11

Ward News

Sandpiper Ward | Como Ward | Melaleuca Ward

Get ready for a new Mentone LSC A major redevelopment of the Mentone Life Saving Club precinct is underway with the old club now demolished, ready for a brand-new facility.

The $14.5 million project is estimated to take around 18 months.

The Mentone Life Saving Club served the community for over 100 years but the upgrade will ensure the club can continue to provide a vital community service to the tens of thousands of visitors at Mentone beach each summer as well as open up the foreshore precinct so it is accessible to all. Unfortunately, the works will mean access to the beach path along the

foreshore will be impacted at various stages throughout the build.

The $4.5 million redevelopment of the Aspendale Life Saving Club is also due to commence

in late 2021, thanks to another Kingston Council and Victorian Government partnership. Council has also recently agreed to contribute $800,000 towards significant expansion works for the Carrum Life Saving Club.

View the new: facility here

Melaleuca Ward Councillor Tim Cochrane at the old Mentone SLSC site.

CR DAVID EDEN

CR CHRIS HILL

CR TIM COCHRANE

0422 557 917 david.eden@kingston.vic.gov.au

0437 913 851 chris.hill@kingston.vic.gov.au

0437 843 837 tim.cochrane@kingston.vic.gov.au

Council Glyphosate Use Two years ago Council decided to cease the use of a toxic weed-killer known as Glyphosate. The community told Council loudly and clearly that the risk to humans (especially children), pets, wildlife, waterways, and other plants was too great for Council to continue using Glyphosate.

The newly elected council will be considering a proposal to move back to using glyphosate in our public open spaces, despite hundreds of residents already making it clear that Council SHOULD NOT be using glyphosate in public spaces.

As always, I’ll be standing up for the community’s view on this issue and I will keep you updated.

Meet your newest Park - Tarella Road Kingston has officially welcomed its newest park in Tarella Road, Chelsea. The land was purchased by Council in 2020 and was zoned as residential land. Council wanted to preserve and protect this land into the future as parkland and applied for the land to be rezoned as a public park. This was approved in June 2021 and we hope to have the park open for the community to see in late 2021.

Revitalising our Edithvale Shopping Strip Prior to this last lockdown, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Edithvale Collective to discuss plans and ideas for revitalising the local Edithvale Shopping Strip. We have some more meetings scheduled to collaborate on some wonderful ideas to bring some more vibrancy to our local strip. With the level crossing removal works heating up; please support our local traders!

Page 12 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

As a result of COVID-19 it’s been well reported that dog ownership has skyrocketed and many residents in Como Ward have pointed out to me the limited options they have to choose from when they want to take their dogs off leash.

Based on this feedback, I’ve asked that as part of a review of Kingston’s dog parks, we investigate options for a new centrally located off-leash area within Como Ward.

Pending the findings of the review, I’m hoping our officers can identify an appropriate location so people don’t have to go so far to give their dogs a good run around. Currently Como Ward’s only fenced off-leash area is at Reg Marlow Reserve on Warrigal Road. We know the condition of the grass has been very poor in recent times, so it has been great to see that after an extensive resurfacing program the turf is looking better than ever and plenty of dog owners and their furry friends have already been enjoying the lush new surface.

We do have the Mentone dog beach as well, which is fantastic, and my wife and I love to take our golden retriever Bailey down there for a good run whenever we can. If you’ve been down to the Mentone foreshore lately you will have noticed some big changes. The old Life Saving Club has been demolished, and we’ve started work on the new Mentone Life Saving Club Precinct. I am so excited to see this project begin and, all things going well, in about 18 months we’ll have a wonderful new facility for the community to enjoy.

It’s been a busy few months for Council.

Construction of the changing places facility is soon to begin at Peter Scullin Reserve, Mordialloc. Council has also committed to rejuvenating the current playground facilities, ensuring the bustling area maintains its vibrancy with new play equipment.

Council is also one step closer to selecting a site for the new aquatic facility, with soil testing underway at a number of sites, including the existing location on Warren Rd. I understand how important the pool is to the Melaleuca community and I look forward to sharing more details regarding the project location & scope in the coming months.

Recently we asked for your feedback on whether to repeal the ban on backyard fire pits. The overwhelming response from the community was yes! Council is now reviewing the Local Law and then we’ll come back to you for more consultation.

The proposed changes will allow you to use a fire pit for warmth on your property but there will be a number of restrictions to help keep everyone safe and healthy. We’ll share more details on Council’s website and social media soon.

Lastly, I regrettably advise that the Parkdale shopping precinct works have been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. I want to assure the community that Council remains committed to the upgrades & I endeavour to share more details as they come to light.

Ward News

Chicquita Ward | Yammerbook Ward | Karkarook Ward

CR TRACEY DAVIES

CR TAMSIN BEARSLEY

CR HADI SAAB

0438 108 611 tracey.davies@kingston.vic.gov.au

0430 170 210 tamsin.bearsley@kingston.vic.gov.au

0437 885 142 hadi.saab@kingston.vic.gov.au

It has been a busy time recently with many exciting things happening in Kingston.

Junior Mayor I would like to pass on my congratulations to Amelia Holko who was elected Kingston Council’s Junior Mayor for 2021-2022.

I was particularly excited as Amelia is a Cheltenham East Primary School student, the same primary school I attended. It is great to see our local primary school students so engaged with our community.

ALGA I recently attended the Australian Local Government Associations (ALGA) convention in Canberra. ALGA took place over three days and was a fantastic opportunity to meet and discuss with other councillors around Australia community issues. It was also an opportunity to meet in person with Members of Parliament.

During such meetings we raised the issue of the 2021 Moorabbin Airport Draft Master Plan. I am concerned the current draft may result in further non-aviation large industrial warehouses being built alongside residents’ homes. I will continue to advocate on behalf of our residents and aviation tenants to ensure that Moorabbin Airport’s Master Plan will be one that reflects the needs of residents and aviation tenants.

Kingston Heath Reserve Residents will shortly be given the opportunity to provide feedback on an additional hockey pitch and remodelling of the baseball facilities at Kingston Heath Reserve. The reserve currently has a great combination of passive and active spaces.

A council facility assessment indicated the need for a second pitch. I am excited about improving our sporting facilities and urge all residents to provide feedback.

Free mobility scooters

Eid Mubarak to all celebrating!

Council is proud to partner with Chelsea Rotary Club to provide free mobility scooters to people in need. Chelsea Rotary have done a wonderful job and have transformed the lives of five local residents who are now able to get out and about independently in the community. They still have several mobility scooters to give away, so if you live in Kingston’s southern suburbs and could benefit from a scooter, please get in touch with Kevin Harrison at Chelsea Rotary on 0407 772 225 to check if you are eligible.

Firstly, a big congratulations to our Australian team who competed in the Olympics but a special shout out to Amy Lawton who played for the Hockeyroos in Tokyo from the Southern United Hockey Club in Kingston Heath Reserve.

Gardens for Wildlife success story I’m thrilled to report that following a very popular two-year trial, Council has approved an ongoing Gardens for Wildlife program. Locals can sign up for a free visit from an expert who will advise on simple steps to make your gardens more friendly for native wildlife. Participants have supported native birds, frogs and other and animals by planting native trees, providing food and water sources and providing shelter.

Kearney Reserve playground Council is upgrading Kearney Reserve’s playground and has incorporated many community suggestions into the design.

Key community feedback included more equipment, improved disability access, an obstacle course and equipment for older children. We hope to begin works early next year and include: a custom obstacle course including a pyramid climbing net, monkey bars, track glide and steppers, a new tri swing set and new mound slide and tunnel.

There seems to be so many things happening at the moment in Karkarook Ward and across Kingston that it is too hard to keep to this to just one column.

Park Redevelopments Vanessa Court Reserve in Clarinda is scheduled to start redevelopment soon – it will be a beautiful new park for the community to enjoy. Construction will have commenced or will be commencing shortly after our magazine reaches your door, with the park to be open to the community by the end of the calendar year.

Horscroft Place pocket park is coming along very nicely. I’ve received some excellent feedback and taken calls from concerned residents too. Just like with the Vanessa Court Reserve the new design outcome for the park is great. In conjunction with Victoria Police and in line with the feedback received to date we are ensuring there will be increased lighting and CCTV cameras to keep park users safe.

Moorabbin pocket park has also just been completed creating better pedestrian linkage to Moorabbin Reserve from south road. Next steps are to begin the process of planting new trees.

Council flags strong concerns over Moorabbin Airport Plan Council has flagged strong concerns over development at the Moorabbin Airport site proposed in a five-year plan.

Council, nearby residents and aviation businesses at Moorabbin Airport have joined together over concerns that the draft plans for Moorabbin Airport put the future of aviation at risk and increase safety concerns.

The proposed draft Master Plan for the site includes too much non-aviation development that: imposes on neighbouring homes, could compromise safety, and undermines the site’s prime purpose as a centre for aviation.

Council has taken these concerns to the Federal Government and lodged a submission objecting to the plans. We have called for land to be set aside to future-proof aviation activities and for buffer

zones to be added between warehouses/industrial buildings and neighbouring homes.

Find out more kingston.vic.gov. au/moorabbin-airport

Deputy Mayor Hadi Saab and Chicquita Ward Councillor Tracey Davies at the Moorabbin Airport site.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 13

COMMUNITY

Meet our Junior Mayor Cheltenham East Primary School Amelia Holko was elected by her peers as Kingston's Junior Mayor 2021-22, at an election event involving 28 primary schools in May. It’s part of a program Council runs in partnership with Chelsea Rotary. An additional 11 students were also voted in, to form Kingston’s Junior Council.

Join our Interfaith Network Committee Nominations are currently open for Faith Leaders and representatives of faith communities on the Kingston Interfaith Network Committee.

The Committee is made up of people from a range of faith backgrounds who meet bimonthly to work on a range of community projects. Go to kingston.vic.gov.au/interfaith for further details.

Enough is Enough Due to the recent lockdowns, two scheduled performances of Enough is Enough have been put on hold, for now.

Commissioned by the Council, Playwright Kieran Carroll created Enough is Enough, to address the real-life impacts of gambling. Ticketholders will be notified directly when the play is rescheduled.

Walking your dog Kingston has more than 30 off-leash open areas for dogs and they are also permitted on our foreshores during set hours.

While Council does not manage the City’s canal systems and waterways, it is important for residents to note these are not off-leash dog areas.

Please keep dogs on-leash around canals and waterways so we can help keep wildlife safe and the water clear of dog droppings, which affect the health of the water and the ecosystem.

Find out more about our off-leash dog areas and restrictions at kingston.vic.gov.au/offleash

Re-connect with your community Are you feeling lonely, isolated or disconnected from your local community? Kingston has many Neighbourhood Houses, Community Centres and Men’s Sheds across the city that can provide you with somewhere to connect, learn new skills, get support, and engage in activities with the wider community.

Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres offer low or no-cost activities including health and wellbeing classes, art and craft, life skills, playgroups and much more. There are also five Men’s Sheds in the Kingston Network.

They provide mateship, as well as a safe and friendly environment to talk, learn and pass on life skills.

Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ communitycentres and kingston. vic.gov.au/menssheds to find your nearest location.

Page 14 | Kingston Your City - Spring 2021

For more information, visit kingstonarts.com.au

Mental Health First Aid workshops Thank you to everyone who took part in Kingston’s Mental Health First Aid Workshops during August.

The two-day workshops aimed at multicultural and faith leaders, were funded through the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 Priority Response to Multicultural Communities (PRMC) grants program.

Through these workshops we provided training to 40 multicultural and faith leaders to help them deliver crosscultural mental health support to people from culturally and linguistically-diverse communities.

CONSULTATION

Help us map out a pedestrian and cycling-friendly Kingston Passive exercise is not only good for our health and wellbeing, it’s great for the planet too.

Kingston Council has declared a climate and ecological emergency and is committed to doing what we can to reduce emissions. As part of this commitment, we’d like to know what we can do, to make zero-emission transport options (such as walking and cycling), the preferred ways of getting around our municipality.

The City of Kingston plans to create an up-to-date Walking and Cycling Strategy, which will direct our program of works for cycling and footpath projects.

But before we start we need your help to make sure we get it right.

We would love to hear your ideas

about what we could do to make Kingston’s roads, shared user paths and trails accessible and usable spaces. And what would need to change for you to choose walking and cycling in Kingston, over every other method of transport.

During September and October, visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au to share your ideas and help us to map out a pedestrian and cycling-friendly Kingston.

We’ll use a shared digital mapping tool, where you can see what others post and provide feedback on their ideas too.

Rescheduled NAIDOC Week events

Digital health check

This year, due to COVID-19 lockdowns, a number of the events scheduled for NAIDOC Week in July needed to be postponed.

As part our commitment to providing full access to all our services during rain, hail, and lockdowns – we have been working behind the scenes on major upgrades to key Council websites.

The good news is, there are two local NAIDOC events to look forward to this spring: the DWGP Spring Blak Market (Sat 4 Sep, 10am-3pm) and the DWGP Family Footy Day (Thurs 23 Sep, 10am3pm).

The Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place (DWGP) was still able to host a very successful inaugural NAIDOC Week dinner dance event – which was live streamed on Facebook.

Please visit facebook.com/ derrimutweelamgatheringplace to confirm rescheduled event details and to view the NAIDOC Week Dinner Dance event.

Guests enjoyed singing and dance performances at the 2021 NAIDOC Dinner at the DWGP. Photo courtesy: Yanni Creative

Throughout the upgrades, we have worked with community members to provide feedback on the usability, accessibility, functionality and features.

Your help needed In the coming months there will be more opportunities to help us with testing and feedback on all our websites, so if you would like to be involved please visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ website-project Look out for the next edition of Kingston Your City for more information about some of the features you’ll find in our new Kingston Libraries website.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 15

SPRING 2021 SEPTEMBER

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What's On FRIDAY 17 SEPTEMBER Kate Ceberano 7.30pm

Men’s Shed

Week 30 August - 5 September Celebrate connection, community and camaraderie during Men’s Shed Week 2021.

As part of Kingston Arts’ Live at City Hall program, aimed at supporting live music after COVID-19 lockdowns, Australian icon Kate Ceberano and a stellar line-up of supporting artists, will rock the Kingston City Hall. Visit kingstonarts. com.au for more info.

To find out what’s on at your local Shed visit kingston.vic. gov.au/menssheds or call 1300 653 356.

Your Pantry Every Wednesday, 7am - 12pm Any Kingston resident who is homeless or doing it tough can access a selection of non-perishable food items and toiletries from Your Pantry, located at 3-5 Blantyre Avenue, Chelsea.

Southern Suburbs Orchid Society 2021 Annual Spring Show 18 - 19 September 10am - 4pm Wide range of flowering Australian and exotic orchids on show. Flowering orchids and orchid accessories on sale. Orchid growing experts available for advice and growing hints. N.G. Wishart Senior Citizens Hall, 964 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin.

SATURDAY 11 SEPTEMBER Rebel – Bringing David Bowie to life through Circus, Comedy and Song 8pm As part of Kingston Arts’ Live at City Hall program, Rebel is a live circus rock tribute to the original rebel, David Bowie. Details at kingstonarts.com.au

GROW, READ, COOK YOUR WAY TO HAPPINESS Online Hobby Groups are a fantastic way to bring people together even when lockdowns are in place. ConnectedAU (the group behind the Letterbox Project), runs a Book Club, Cooking Club, Garden Club and Social Club – and you’re welcome to join in. Each group has a private members area, weekly newsletters, interactive group chat, lots of resources and an end-of-month meeting to meet virtually and enjoy connection. Find out more at connected.com.au SATURDAY 16 OCTOBER

SUNDAY 31 OCTOBER

Dingley Village Farmers Market

Foreshore dog regulations switch to Summer Hours which means the times your dog is allowed on our local beaches will change. Check the signage at our beaches or visit Council’s website for more information.

8.30am - 1pm Interplast Charity Golf Day 12.30 - 5pm Held at Woodlands Golf Club in partnership with Rotary Club of Mordialloc. Call 0403 046 448 for more info.

On the third Saturday of each month, visit the Dingley Village Farmers Market for a great range of fresh, seasonal, locally grown produce, artisan breads and meats, local honey and many other tasty treats. 31 Marcus Rd Dingley Village.

OCTOBER

Bedtime

NOVEMBER Social Tennis

STORYTIME SESSIONS

Cheltenham Library: Mondays from 4 October – 13 December 6.30-7pm Parkdale Library: Wednesdays from 13 October – 24 November 6.30-7pm Dress your kids in their pjs and bring them along to the Bedtime Storytime Sessions at Cheltenham and Parkdale Libraries. It’s a great way to wind kids down for sleep, as the sun starts to stay out for longer.

Mondays 9.30am - 12pm An Author for all Seasons On the third Saturday of every month at Mentone Library.

This spring hear from Alec Patric (the Butcherbird Stories), Elizabeth Flann (Beware of Dogs) and David Dodd (Rock around the historical block) at Mentone Public Library.

Bookings essential, phone Julia on 9005 6300 or email mentonepubliclibrary@gmail.com

Feel like dusting off your tennis racquets for a social hit? Enjoy free social tennis with your first visit to Chelsea Lawn Tennis Club, Beardsworth Ave, Chelsea.

TUESDAY 23 NOVEMBER Seniors Services Expo 10am- 3pm

SUNDAY 12 SEPTEMBER Bonbeach Farmers Market 8.30am - 12.30pm On the second Sunday of each month, visit the Farmers Market at Bonbeach Primary School for all your essential shopping of organic fruit and veg, jams, local honey, breads, baked goods and artisan made treats. 29-63 Breeze St, Bonbeach

THURSDAY 28 OCTOBER

Kingston City Hall, 979-985 Nepean Hwy Moorabbin 3189

Legend of the Skies Theatre

Find out more on page 6.

Armchair Travel Group Every Thursday, 10 - 11am If you are interested in everything travel then you will love this group, which discusses exciting destinations from our own backyard to travelling overseas in a friendly, welcoming environment. All are welcome to attend. Longbeach Place, 15 Chelsea Road, Chelsea

Series Nine of the annual theatre production, celebrating Kingston’s rich aviation history.

Performed by volunteers in the Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin. Bookings essential on 9580 2387.

Discover Kingston’s many fantastic community groups, events and activities with mycommunitylife.com.au It’s 100% local and easy to search by location, date or type of activity you’re looking for. There is no easier way to make stronger connections in your local neighbourhood.

WEDNESDAY 24 NOVEMBER Kingston for Human Rights Art Event 7pm - Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkdale. Free event. Call 9588 0229 to find out more.