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KINGSTON Your City WINTER 2020

kingston.vic.gov.au

PAGE 4

Open for business HOME LIBRARY SERVICE

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Serving our community during COVID-19

NEWS

Kingston still open for business

kingstoncc kingstoncouncil kingstoncitycouncil info@kingston.vic.gov.au PO Box 1000, Mentone, 3194 CUSTOMER CARE 1300 653 356 COUNCIL MEETINGS Due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions we have had to run our Council Meetings a little differently lately and moved them to Kingston City Hall. We’re asking people not to attend in person at this time but to instead view the meetings online via our live stream. The next Ordinary Council Meetings will be held on Monday 22 June and Monday 27 July at 7pm. The next Planning Committee Meetings will be held on Wednesday 17 June, Wednesday 15 July and Wednesday 19 August at 7pm. View Council Meetings live at stream.kingston.vic.gov.au 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 the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the land on which the municipality is a part and pays its respects to the Elders past and present. Council is a member of the Inter Council Aboriginal Consultative Committee (ICACC). COVER PHOTO Kingston’s Home Library Service is providing library access for many in our community during COVID-19. Turn to page 4 to find out about the many virtual programs Kingston Libraries is also

Carrum Family and Children’s Centre is still delivering early years education and care.

Despite major changes to many services, Kingston is still open for business and working for our community. While our Libraries, Leisure Centre, Arts centres and customer care counters have been closed - our teams have been finding innovative ways to continue their services online. And many of our essential services are still up and running, with a few modifications to ensure physical distancing measures are in place. • Kingston families have still been able to access child care and kindergarten and have their children immunised. • Aged and disability services are still offered to those in need, including delivered meals, essential shopping trips and home maintenance.

• Waste and recycling services plus hard waste collections have been operating as normal. • Our parks, foreshore and sports grounds continue to be maintained. • Most of Council’s office staff are working from home and keeping services and support running. For up-to-date information about what Council services are available and the closures, please visit kingston.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

NEWS

Community and business support package Kingston Council has delivered a $2.8 million assistance package to support our community and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Council is keen to support those people and businesses in the community who have been severely impacted by these unprecedented times.

For residents:

For businesses:

% Rates deferred until 30 June 2021 for those who apply under Council’s Hardship Policy

% Rates deferred until 30 June 2021 for businesses that apply under Council’s Hardship Policy

% No interest on overdue rates until after 30 June 2021

% Childcare fees waived (conditions apply)

% Refund on health and Food business registrations and footpath trading fees

% Animal registration fee due date extended to 30 June 2020

Council knows many local businesses and families have been severely impacted by this crisis, and

hopes the support package can make a positive difference during these very difficult times. For more information about the community and business support package visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ support-package

For sporting and community clubs: % No rents for 12 months % No winter season rents

Kingston’s COVID-19 Community Support Hotline Did you know Council is running a Community Support Hotline with qualified assessment officers to answer your questions about COVID-19? We are working in partnership with a range of local emergency support providers to care for our community during this crisis. If you are require emergency food aid, financial assistance/ counselling, home support services, family violence support or mental health support service phone the hotline on 1300 653 356.

Kingston’s AccessCare team have also been making welfare and social calls to check-in on those in the community who may not have family to talk to and are feeling isolated without access to the community at this time. Calls are also being made to the more than 5000 Kingston residents who receive home support through AccessCare

to check they have adequate support, confirm their health status and determine if they are at risk. The Kingston Libraries team have also been calling their older Library members for a friendly chat during this time of physical distancing and isolation.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 3

COMMUNITY

VIRTUAL LIBRARIES PROVE A HIT

Health and Wellbeing Tips Stay active Any physical activity is better than none. It helps you feel more energetic, happier and relaxed. Stay healthy Establish a good routine that includes healthy food, physical movement and a good night’s sleep. Fresh air Spend some time outside every day. Breathe in the fresh air from your balcony, garden or courtyard. Stay safe

Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley joins in the fun of Kingston Libraries’ virtual Storytimes.

Our libraries may have been closed for the past few months, but we’ve been connecting with our community virtually instead. Each weekday morning families can still enjoy Kingston’s Libraries much-loved Storytimes but with a twist, they are being delivered online and via live stream. There’s also the Virtual Lego Club and for book worms, a Virtual Book Club plus many more programs and workshops are now being offered online. The online clubs and programs are all about keeping the community connected and our young people reading despite the physical

KINGSTON ACTIVE at

home

Kingston Active has been finding ways to help the community stay active at home with free online workouts and Facebook Live workouts twice a week for all to enjoy.

Jump online and let the Kingston Active trainers take you through a series of HIIT, Strength, Core and Recovery sessions to do at home. Page 4 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

distancing restrictions. And it’s working - eBook and eAudiobook borrowing is at an all-time high for children and adults. Our libraries have also been delivering hundreds of books that were on hold directly to the community and the Home Library Service is continuing to reach house-bound residents. For more information about the online programs on offer at Kingston Libraries visit library.kingston.vic.gov.au Kingston Active is also offering all members a FREE 30-minute private online consultation via Skype. The consultations give members access to a trainer to help plan and personalise your workouts at home. To book your complimentary session simply email active@kingston.vic.gov.au or visit the Kingston Active website to try a free workout or jump on our Facebook lives stream on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Check your smoke alarms – they only last 10 years. Stay connected Schedule in regular times each day to catch up with friends and family using online tools or a phone call. Help others Check in with neighbours or friends who may be feeling lonely or are quarantined. Limit news & media Limit watching, listening or reading news on coronavirus to just once per day and stick to reliable government sites for updates. Emotional health Practice gratitude and focus on the things we have rather than the things we don’t. Mindfulness & meditation Help to reduce stress and control anxiety. Try a free mediation app such as Smiling Mind suitable for children and adults. Laugh & smile Watch a funny movie, video or read a funny book. Laughter helps to release endorphins. It is normal to feel up and down about the current situation. If you need support contact: Lifeline 13 11 14 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800

COMMUNITY

#Kingstoniso Project Capturing local experiences of COVID-19 for the Kingston Local History collection You are invited to help us capture this unprecedented moment in history through the #Kingstoniso project.

You can also capture scenes from around your neighbourhood as you exercise at the local park or head to the shops.

We are living through History. This is a once-in-a-century event that we would like to document for the future.

Let us share together our moments, the highs and the lows, that capture this unique time in history.

Share your photographs, videos, writings or artwork that capture the images and experiences of the Kingston community during COVID-19 isolation.

Together we can create a living history that can be shared for decades to come through the Kingston Local History collection.

Show us how you’re spending your time at home – you might be working, home schooling, taking up a new hobby, or connecting with family & friends online.

Keeping it in Kingston Local businesses need our support during these difficult times.

We're going on a bear hunt Have you been wondering why all the teddy bears and other soft toys have been appearing in windows, on balconies and in trees? Like other communities right across the world, the Kingston community has started a 'Bear Hunt' encouraging our younger residents to get out and exercise at this tough time. Join in the community spirit and help bring some smiles to Kingston's kids!

Simply share on your social media using #Kingstoniso or email us direct at kingstoniso@kingston.vic. gov.au Find out more at kingston.vic.gov.au/kingstoniso

Whether it’s food, drink, groceries or something else, there are still plenty of local Kingston traders that are open for business. Kingston’s Business Directions teams has a list of businesses which are still operating with Victorian guidelines. Show your support by pledging to support local businesses at kingston.vic.gov.au/localtraders

Many are still operating via takeaway, with restricted entry into stores or by introducing contactless home delivery services. . Find out which businesses are operating, or submit your own listing if you are a local business, kingston.vic.gov.au/localtraders

Council is encouraging our community to ‘Keep it in Kingston’ by shopping at local stores wherever possible.

The impact of COVID-19 has been far reaching and many small businesses in Kingston have had to adapt to survive.

Cheltenham’s The Fruit Men has temporarily closed their shopfront and switched to a delivery-only service.

Take-away chicken shop The Hot Bird had only just opened when the new COVID-19 restrictions came into place. In addition to take-away, they quickly added online orders to reduce customer contact and have been donating any leftover food to local emergency services.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 5

ENVIRONMENT

A GREENER KINGSTON

Page 6 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

Living Links sees over 18,000 plantings in Kingston Living Links project to create a web of green spaces across Melbourne’s south east. Over 18,000 trees and shrubs have been planted in Kingston in the past year though the Living Links project that brings together 10 councils, Victorian Government agencies, schools and community groups. Kingston is currently home to five major nature reserve corridors which the Living Links Project

Council declares a climate emergency Kingston Council has joined hundreds of councils around the world in declaring a climate and ecological emergency. The declaration recognises that climate change is already causing significant damage to the

focuses on improving, including Mordialloc Creek, the Port Phillip Bay Foreshore, Patterson River and Long Beach Trail which includes the Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands. Council has been working closely with local schools and community groups to remove litter and weeds, and plant new vegetation along these nature reserve corridors. If you want to get involved contact Kingston’s Parks Team on: 1300 653 356 or visit mycommunitylife.com.au. Find out more about the Living Links program at livinglinks.com.au

economy, society and environment and that urgent action is required to reverse current trends. As part of its commitment to action, Council is developing a climate emergency response plan in the 2020-2021 budget cycle focusing on policy and actions to mitigate against accelerating climate change and global warming. This compliments action Council is taking to minimise its greenhouse gas emissions including replacing street lights with LED and investing $500k to install solar panels in Council buildings.

Save money and the planet Businesses in Kingston are encouraged to take advantage of finance available to upgrade their premises to become more environmentally friendly. The Environmental Upgrade Finance scheme provides capital to eligible businesses for environmental upgrade projects such as solar, energy efficiency, water treatment, waste and more. How does it work? • Your business scopes out an upgrade project for an existing building, which benefits the environment and saves you money;

• The Sustainable Australia Fund provides up to 100% of the project cost; • As a building owner or tenant, you can make fixed quarterly repayments over periods of up to 20 years to Kingston Council aligned to your usual rates notices; • Your business benefits from lower operating costs, and lower emissions! Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/eua for more information.

COOLING KINGSTON The City of Kingston's Urban Cooling Strategy presents a vision for ‘Creating a Cool Kingston’. Extreme heat has a major impact on the health and wellbeing of the community, and more broadly the productivity of the economy. The vision for Kingston is a municipality with no urban heat islands. It is a community that actively manages the impacts of urban heat on people and the environment through decisions that encourage urban cooling. We asked for feedback on our vision and you told us how much you value trees, vegetation and open green space and how you are impacted by heat. You also showed us the things you are already doing to mitigate the impact, and identifying things that could be done to improve cooling in their area. Council will now look at: • Identifying a site to trial light coloured roads and paving, and a green wall or roof site • Selecting priority areas for street tree planting for cooling outcomes • Embedding cooling principles into community health and wellbeing programs kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 7

NEWS

A new vision for Kingston’s Chain of Parks

New visual plans bring the community’s Chain of Parks vision to life. Kingston Council and the community have joined forces to create new plans to guide the creation of the long-awaited Chain of Parks. The Chain of Parks Plans brings to life the long-held vision to transform former landfills in Kingston’s northern suburbs into parkland. Council approved the new plans earlier this year to visually represent the community’s vision for the new parklands. The plans will now be added to Council’s Green Wedge Management Plan and presented to the Victorian Government, which has promised $25mil for land purchases for the project.

Council hopes its Chain of Parks Plan will showcase the community’s vision to the Victorian Government and see them adopt the design for the project.

• Lots of seats & benches for elderly, disabled users • Protect the woods and biodiversity

The Chain of Parks will:

• Links to existing car parking such as at Braeside Park

• Significantly add to Kingston’s green open space

• Safe crossings of roads

• Provide spaces for walking, cycling and horseriding • Add to Kingston’s tree canopy The Chain of Parks Plan was developed following community consultation with feedback received from Council’s Public Spaces and Environment Advisory Committee and submissions from community members. Community feedback included requests for: • Soft surfaces for running

Did you know? The idea for the Chain of Parks was first flagged in the 1970s. Now that landfills in Kingston are closed/ closing, the long-held vision can finally be built.

• Links to surrounding suburbs

Keeping our swimming pools safe More than 1000+ swimming pool/ spa owners have registered their pools as part of new Victorian Government laws to make backyard pools and spas safer for everyone. Under the new state laws, owners must register pools/spas with their local Council by 1 June. * Kingston has put together some easy-to-follow information to help pool/spa owners understand and follow the new state laws. Page 8 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

A big thank-you to all the owners who have already registered their pool/spa. It’s great to see our community doing all it can to make sure our backyard pools/spas are safe and secure. Step 1: Register by 1 June 2020 Step 2: Have your pool/spa inspected by a licensed inspector & undertake repairs if needed. (Note this doesn’t have to happen straight

away - the due date will depend on the age of your pool) Step 3: Lodge your certificate of compliance provided by the licensed inspector. Step 4: Update your certificate every four years. For more details: kingston.vic.gov.au/pools *Correct at time of publication. Check our website to confirm if the 1 June deadline still stands or has been extended by the Victorian Government in light of COVID-19.

WASTE

Food Waste Recycling in Kingston Kingston residents will soon be able to recycle their food scraps along with their garden waste with the introduction of food waste recycling. Throughout June, new food waste caddys and compostable bags will be delivered to all residents with a green bin. The caddy is a small bin that can be used to collect food scraps to transfer from your kitchen to your food and green waste bin. The new service is a big win for the environment and will help divert more waste from landfill. On average, food waste fills up over half of your red bin each week. By placing your food waste into your green bin, you will be doing your bit to help the environment and contribute to the creation of highquality compost that can be used by farmers to grow healthy crops.

Archer helps his mum with their food waste recycling using Kingston’s new caddys.

What goes in your food and green waste bin

Tips to keep your green bin happy

YES

• Tie your bin liner up to help reduce smells. • Add layers of lawn and garden clippings.

Vegetable & fruit scraps

Bread, cereal, rice & pasta

Food packaging of any kind

• Keep meat and seafood in the freezer until just before collection day. • Don’t overfill your bin and ensure the lid is closed properly.

Dairy leftovers

Garden prunings & weeds

Kitty litter

Coffee grounds & tea leaves

Newspaper & paper towel

Plastic bags of any kind

Meat scraps & bones

Citrus, onions & garlic

Cigarette butts

Egg shells

General leftovers

Liquid

• Keep the bin in a shady spot. If you’d like to start recycling food waste but don’t have a green bin call Council on 1300 653 356 to order one for your home. For more information and a complete list of what can and can’t go into your green bin, please visit kingston.vic.gov.au/foodwaste NEW FREE CADDY

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 9

North Ward News

Kingston City Hall revamp The vision for the second stage of upgrades to the iconic Kingston City Hall will be considered by Council at its May meeting. A Masterplan has been developed following community feedback to ensure the beloved City Hall meets the future needs of Kingston and surrounds as a key location for performing arts, events and community meeting spaces. It will also help attract top tier live music events and corporate functions to the venue. The Arts represent an essential part of the community, and investment from all levels of government is crucial.

The Masterplan provides a clear vision for investment in this iconic south-east venue and Council will seek funding to bring the vision to reality.

The proposed upgrades include increased capacity, improved accessibility, new balcony and mezzanine level plus multiple flexible arts spaces.

North Ward Councillor Cr Steve Staikos at the iconic Kingston City Hall in Moorabbin.

CR TAMARA BARTH

CR STEVE STAIKOS

CR GEORGE HUA

0417 870 350 tamara.barth@kingston.vic.gov.au

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

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

During these unprecedented times the importance of strong communities has come to the forefront. While it has been at times anxious and destabilising for many of us, it has also been a great joy to see community members caring for one another. I have seen our area show strong support to local businesses during these uncertain times, seen neighbours looking after one another, enjoyed waving to people at the park, and even loved spotting the teddy bears people have put in their windows to entertain local youngsters. I hope you’ve experienced some of this in your neighbourhood too. I’ve also been proud to see Council continue to serve the community during this time with many of our services still up and running. Others have had to adapt and have come up with innovative online solutions including online fitness classes, virtual storytimes, virtual lego club and much more. We’ve also been working to support our most vulnerable community members by continuing our Meals on Wheels program, partnering with local support services to increase emergency relief packages and even individually phoning many older people in our community to check in on them. I hope that one positive we can all take with us from these unusual times is the importance of our local neighbourhood. Let’s continue to support and connect with our local community and be thankful for this very special corner of the world we live in.

Page 10 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our entire community and as a Council we wanted to find a way to help alleviate the economic impact. We have adopted a $2.8 million assistance package to help reduce the financial strain. Those in our community struggling to pay their rates, we will defer payments to 30 June 2021, Council is also waiving childcare fees, handing back food business registration fees and footpath trading fees plus halting community and sports clubs rents for 12 months. Adoption of Chain of Parks Trail Plans Kingston Council has adopted a final alignment for the trail, which updated both the 1994 Sandbelt Open Space Strategy and the 2012 Kingston Green Wedge Management Plan. Kingston’s newest park at Elder Street South in Clarinda is taking shape nicely and will be open this year. Clarinda’s Victory Road Park is also on track to open on time. These former landfills will be important public open spaces for our community. New Park for Moorabbin Last year Council acquired 2 Horscroft Place, Moorabbin for the sum of $2.49 million. The property will be converted to public open space and will double the existing Healey Street Reserve and provide for an improved link between the Activity Centre and Moorabbin Reserve. Hawthorn Football Club Council has voted to send the latest Planning Scheme Amendment (C180) from the Club to a planning panel for consideration. The latest plans will see the club include an Indoor Recreation Facility (basketball & netball), Medical Centre, and some changes to the function centre and signage.

While a number of community activities have been disrupted, Council has used these unusual circumstances to complete a range of projects. Our sportsground team has launched a major improvement program on many local sporting grounds, which are currently vacant due to suspension of all community sport. While the grounds are quiet, our team has been undertaking draining and coring works to improve the quality of the playing fields ready for the return of community sport. Kingston Libraries has also made the most of the forced closure, and is undertaking some renovations at the Parkdale Library while the centre is closed. We have added in RFID scanning services, new study spaces, new carpet and new furniture. We’re looking to showing it off to you when we reopen. Council has also been working hard to support local businesses during these difficult times. I’m proud to support the pledge to ‘Keep it in Kingston’ by supporting local businesses whenever possible. Let’s all work together to support our local business community whether its picking up takeaway from your favourite local restaurant, organising a home delivery of groceries from your local shop or buying online from local retail stores. Thank-you for your support as we navigate these difficult times together.

Central Ward News

CR GEOFF GLEDHILL

CR RON BROWNLEES OAM

CR ROSEMARY WEST OAM

0427 102 926 geoff.gledhill@kingston.vic.gov.au

0418 172 725 ron.brownlees@kingston.vic.gov.au

0418 554 799 rosemary.west@kingston.vic.gov.au

It is extraordinary the extent to which all our lives have changed due to the onset of the latest corona virus, COVID 19. Most of the things we considered as “day to day” have been cancelled or altered. Our employment, national and local sports, shopping, religious services, holidays, school, a day at the beach, going for a drive, family BBQ or simply visiting friends. We have been required to live lives under the specific direction of authorities that the vast majority of us have never experienced and I would suggest that if we had been asked would we agree to such restrictions 6 months ago, we would have simply laughed and said, “no way”. The extent to which we have all accepted the need to change shows me two things, firstly we recognise the severity of this awful virus but also that as a community we accept that the actions we take not only have the potential to bring harm or illness to ourselves but to our neighbors, family and friends also. I believe the experience has bought out the very best in our community and for that I say thank you. Council has responded as quickly and compassionately as it can and we will continue to make changes to matters under our control to help those in need. During this time it is crucial that the core work of Council continues to run smoothly and efficiently, as these are the things that really help our community. Things are put into perspective for us all when something like this virus takes hold of our community, many of the issues or problems we had prior, suddenly don’t seem as important. Please stay well, there is much to still be done and remember you are not alone, if you need help, please ask. There are plenty of people who are willing to help.

Unfortunately we have all experienced the impact and disruption the Coronavirus has had on our lives and families, resulting in the re-modelling of the way we live. Council has had to curtail many programs and close some facilities and we have lost the services of many of our valued volunteers. Our staff have willingly stepped in to ensure the continuation of important services to vulnerable members of our community. Well done and thank you everyone. We have also passed a $2.8 million support package to support residents, small business, community groups and sporting clubs in Kingston. To adhere to physical distancing requirements we have been holding all our Council meetings recently at Kingston City Hall. I encourage you to watch those meetings via our live stream. These uncertain times are not likely to be over for some time, and we all need to remain vigilant and follow the rules to prevent further spread of this virus. Thanks to all the volunteer collectors who helped us raise over $42,000 at the successful Mordi Fest in March. We donated the money to Wildlife Victoria and Zoos Victoria in recognition of their fantastic work during horrific bushfires earlier this year. The long awaited Farm Road Pre-school extensions have been completed and are now available for use once all restrictions are relaxed. Council has also approved the final plans for the replacement of the ageing Mentone Life Saving Club precinct following valuable input from the community and club members during extensive consultation.

Central ward meeting on the Housing Strategy Warm thanks to the 62 residents who attended my virtual ward meeting on Council’s draft Housing Strategy on 23 April, the last day ward meetings could be held before the scheduled Council Election. Thanks also to those who letterboxed my fliers to their neighbours, it was a good turnout given that for single councillor ward meetings formal notification is not sent to every household. At the meeting, I made public the revised draft Housing Strategy maps given to Councillors in February. Please email me if you would like copies. These show that while the consultants now recommend putting more of the General Residential Zone 3 incremental change area into the 9m two-storey Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ), they still propose rezoning much of it to the three storey 11m General Residential Zone (GRZ). Attendees had probing questions about who briefed the consultants and why so much development is proposed when residents’ 2019 submissions made clear they do not want more development. Some said their lives would be ruined, others said their families would be driven out of Kingston if these plans go ahead. In my view, Council needs to protect our one and two storey areas in the new NRZ and to counter the effects of the Planning Minister’s 2017 decision to increase the height limit of the GRZ from 9m to 11m. We also need to protect our three storey streets from the proposed four storeys.

Kingston raises $42,000 for bushfire relief The Kingston community has come together to raise much-needed funds for two wildlife organisations helping animals affected in the devastating bushfires in December and January. All proceeds from this year’s Mordialloc Food and Wine Festival entry fee and from wine sales at Kingston Art’s Pop Up Bar, were donated. More than $42,000 in total was raised thanks to an army of volunteers from the City of Kingston and the generosity of the local community. In late March, donations of just over $21,000 were made to two charities, Wildlife Victoria and Zoos Victoria. Both charities expressed their sincere gratitude and appreciation for the generous donation.

Central Ward Councillors Cr Ron Brownlees OAM, Cr Rosemary West OAM and Cr Geoff Gledhill at Peter Scullin Reserve where the Mordialloc Food and Wine Festival is held.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 11

South Ward News

New mural pays homage to our seasonal migrants A fantastic new large-scale mural has been unveiled on the rear facade of the Chelsea Sportwomen’s Centre. Victorian artist Geoffrey Carran worked with local community members, friends of Edithvale Wetlands and users of the sports centre to come up with the design for the striking artwork. The mural pays homage to the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, which annually migrate from Siberia to our very own Edithvale Wetlands. The wetlands support over 1% of the global Sandpiper population. The mural was funded through the City of Kingston and a grant from the Department of Justice and Community Safety.

South Ward Councillors, Cr Tamsin Bearsley, Cr Georgina Oxley and Cr David Eden enjoy the sunset view of the new mural at the Chelsea Sportswomen’s Centre.

CR TAMSIN BEARSLEY

CR DAVID EDEN

CR GEORGINA OXLEY

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

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

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

The last few months have been difficult and uncertain for many in our community. I have been amazed at how the community has come together to support each other and have heard incredible stories of neighbours and even strangers helping one another get through this period. While Council has been forced to temporarily close many of our wonderful community facilities including our libraries, leisure centre and our arts centre programs we are and will continue to provide those essential services our community relies on. What has been fantastic to see is the many innovative ways that our libraries, in particular, have come up with to continue to provide much-loved services to our community. Families can still enjoy Storytime online or via live stream, older kids can get involved in the virtual Lego challenges and young and old can join the virtual book club. As a teacher, I know how challenging this time must be, particularly for parents of school-age children grappling with home schooling. Kingston Libraries’ programs can help educate and entertain the children. There’s also a huge selection of eBooks and eAudiobooks available to download for school reading. Kingston Active has been making sure we don’t miss out on staying active at home. Jump online and try one of the free workouts, there are classes for all fitness levels and most importantly it gets us all moving. Hopefully we can all be out enjoying Kingston’s wonderful open spaces and sports and recreation facilities again soon, but in the meantime stay active when and where you can and most importantly stay safe.

Page 12 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

Kingston is facing the biggest public health challenge we’re ever experienced, and I have been proud of the way the community has come together to support and keep each other safe. Our community precincts look very different than they did a few months ago with many local businesses, sporting and community groups forced to temporarily close to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Many of us are now working from home when we can, including some of our staff at Kingston Council, however we are relying on others to continue to provide essential services to our community. Council is also working hard to continue to deliver important major projects to improve community facilities. Works on the new $9 million Carrum sporting precinct at Roy Dore Reserve are well underway. New 30 metre light poles for Oval One are expected to be installed in mid-May with additional light fittings planned for the existing poles on Oval Two. Construction works have also started on the new two-storey sports pavilion, with female friendly change facilities and disability access. Works are also progressing well on the new sporting facilities at Aspendale Gardens Sports Ground. Stage 1 works to create the sporting fields and provide car parking have just been completed. Finally, the much-anticipated new netball courts at Regents Park are completed and ready for when the netball season recommences post COVID-19. The project is an important part of ensuring Council continues to meet the needs of Kingston’s ever-growing female participation rates in sport.

As a small business owner and the daughter of a nurse, I know how tough the COVID-19 situation has been on local businesses, and on our community as a whole. There is still a lot of uncertainty and that is making it really challenging. In March we announced a community and business support package as a way of hopefully easing the financial burden, which included deferring rates payments, waiving child care fees and freezing rent for our community and sporting clubs. I hope these measures can go even just a little bit of the way to easing some of the stress. While we have had to close many of our facilities to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 including our libraries, our dedicated library staff have been doing their best to keep providing online all the wonderful programs our community and our littlest residents love so much. I had a great time taking part in a virtual Storytime session, reading one of my favourite books from when I was little. It has been a busy few months, but you have to take the time to celebrate all the good work that is happening in the community. I had the absolute pleasure on International Women’s Day of awarding the amazing June Rea the 2020 Woman of the Year. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for the vulnerable in our community. Congratulations June and to all our 18 nominees. It is an unprecedented time and we are all trying to navigate through the challenges that COVID-19 brings. Now is the time for compassion and kindness and supporting each other in whatever way we can. We will get through this.

COMMUNITY

Your Draft Budget 2020/2021 Council has released its 2020/21 Draft Budget and is working hard – despite these uncertain times – to continue to provide essential services and deliver important major projects to improve community facilities.

Your rates help fund the creation of new parks and open-spaces for the community, such as the recently completed Barker Street Park. We can’t wait to reopen our parks and playgrounds so you can check it out.

We’re investing $206.2m in services and $65.9m in new projects in our 2020/21 Draft Budget to benefit Kingston’s 165,782 residents, and we’d like to know what you think. Highlights of this budget include: • Completion of several multiyear projects including Dales Park Pavilion, Soppet Pavilion, Parkdale Yacht Club, and the Bay Trail shared path. • Major investment in important community facilities including improving Scout / Girl Guide Halls to ensure they are accessible for all • Renewal of Council’s core assets of footpaths, roads and drainage Have we got the mix right? Head to yourkingstonyoursay.com.au to let us know what you think of the Draft Budget. Property revaluation, waste levy and ratecapping explained Your Council rates fund over 100 services across Kingston, including libraries, leisure centres, immunisations, bin collections and meals on wheels deliveries – to name just a few. Your share of the total rate amount is set by the value of your property. People with higher valued

properties pay a greater share than others. Revaluation The Victorian Government’s Valuer-General values your property each year. The valuations used to determine rates for 2020/21 will be as at 1 January 2020. Rate cap The rates we collect are capped each year by the Minister for Local Government. Under the Victorian Government’s rate capping laws, this year local Councils can only increase the average amount of rates collected by 2%. It is important to note that the rate cap does not mean that rates for each individual property will increase by 2%, the cap applies to the average rates bill – not individual properties. Your property value determines your share of the total rates bill. Higher valued properties pay a greater share, while lower valued properties pay a smaller share. The key issue in determining your share is how your property value has moved in comparison to the average movement of properties in Kingston.

Pensioner rebate If you are a pensioner, you may be eligible for the Victorian Government rates rebate. Council also provides an additional pensioner rates rebate of $110 PLUS there is a $50 rebate on the Fire Services Levy for pensioners. Call 1300 653 356 or visit kingston.vic.gov.au/rateeligibility to check your eligibility. Watch our video guide to rates at kingston.vic.gov.au/rates Waste charges The Victorian Government charges a landfill levy on all waste disposed at landfills. Disposing of waste to landfill is getting more and more expensive – which is why Council has introduced new initiatives such as food recycling (turn to page 14 for more). Waste charges are set according to the size of your household waste, recycling and garden waste bin and cover the costs of garbage collection from your property and the fees set by landfill operators to dispose of household waste. Remember you can apply to have your rates deferred if you are experiencing difficulty paying. Turn to page 3 for more.

Free tree voucher program expanded After the success of last year’s free tree voucher program, Council is bringing it back this year, with a few changes based on your feedback. This year the voucher will be redeemable for trees, shrubs and grasses…and even more will be on offer. Keep an eye out for your rates pack later in the year, it will contain your free plants voucher and more information on where you can redeem it.

kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 13

NEWS

Kingston’s 2020 Woman of the Year A tireless advocate for the vulnerable in the community has been named Kingston’s 2020 Woman of the Year. June Rea accepted her award from Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley at a ceremony celebrating International Women’s Day on Friday 6 March at Kingston City Hall. June is the second person to have won this prestigious annual award that was launched last year to recognise the outstanding achievements of women making a positive difference in their local community. Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said choosing a winner among the 18 exceptional women nominated for this year’s award had been incredibly difficult, but June Rea stood out as someone

who has worked tirelessly for her community. June’s tenacious advocacy has resulted in positive impacts on the lives of many Kingston residents, in terms of both living conditions and lifestyle. June Rea said she was extremely honoured and grateful to have received the Woman of the Year Award. “I am hoping this award increases awareness about the great work the Community Visitors program does in safeguarding the human rights of the most vulnerable in our community and encourages others in Kingston to volunteer as well,” said Mrs Rea.

Works full steam ahead on crossing removals Major works on the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removals projects are well underway along the Frankston train line. Council has been working closely with the Level Crossing Removal Project in an effort to review the plans, advocate on behalf of the community and ensure the best possible outcome for this once-ina-generation infrastructure project.

Upcoming works: Cheltenham and Mentone: Major construction continues with road closures at Balcombe, Park and Charman Road plus works on new multi-level carpark in Cheltenham. New stations will be open at end of July and August Carrum: Finalising station buildings, carparks and new landscaping. New foreshore precinct under construction to create parkland area and café to be opened later this year. Edithvale, Chelsea and Bonbeach: Vegetation removed along railway, underground cables being installed to prepare for the main train line construction. There may be occasional periods of lane, carpark or footpath closures. For further details visit, levelcrossings.vic.gov.au

Page 14 | Kingston Your City - Winter 2020

Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley with our 2020 Kingston Woman of the Year June Rea.

Planning for a new leisure centre Kingston councillors have given the green light to plan for a new leisure centre for Kingston. The Don Tatnell Leisure Centre was closed earlier this year following more than 40 years serving the local community. Council is now planning for a new leisure centre and is currently assessing a range of potential locations. We will be seeking community input in coming months as we work towards a new, improved leisure centre to serve our community for decades to come. Council also runs Waves Leisure Centre in Highett (temporarily closed during the COVID-19 restrictions) which will continue to operate and is available for general swimming, wave pool, swim classes, gym and fitness classes. Visit, kingstonactive.com.au

CONSULTATION

Chelsea skate park lighting given the green light Recreational skaters will soon be able to skate or scoot under lights after dark following Council’s approval of new lighting for the popular skate park and youth precinct at Bicentennial Park in Chelsea.

to minimise the environmental impact. The lights will operate until 9pm and enable more access to this great community recreation space. Help shape new projects in your neighbourhood! Council regularly seeks community input to design new projects and initiatives. Visit yourkingstonyoursay. com.au to find out more and join the conversation. Current consultations include:

Local skaters asked Council to look at installing automated lighting at night and following community consultation Council approved the $300,000 upgrade. The new lighting system will only activate when people are using the Chelsea Skate Park after dark,

Draft Housing Strategy and Neighbourhood Character Study Update COVID-19 has had a considerable impact on our community and restricted how we interact with each other. Due to this, Council has decided to put the Housing Strategy & Neighbourhood Character Study on hold and defer the next stage of consultation. This means we can all give the project the attention it deserves when we enter the next stage of consultation. Where are we up to in the process? Council has considered all submissions received on the draft Housing Strategy & Neighbourhood Character Study. Thank-you to the thousands of residents who took part to share their views.

We are now using this feedback, along with newly released guidelines from the state government, to make changes to the final strategy for Council to formally adopt at a future Council meeting. What are the next steps? When the project recommences the community will be notified of the meeting date and will have access to the documentation being considered by Council. If Council adopts the strategy, a formal Planning Scheme Amendment process and the next stage of consultation will begin. Before we begin consultation we need authorisation from the Planning Minister. All Kingston residents will be notified by post when the consultation opens.

Moorabbin renewal Help shape the future of two key areas of Moorabbin! We have been working on two separate plans looking at the east and west of Moorabbin with an aim to build on the best of suburb and set out an exciting vision for its future. Let us know if we’ve got it right! Social and Affordable Housing Escalating housing costs relative to incomes are resulting in increased levels of rental and mortgage stress, displacement and homelessness. This trend has led to the City of Kingston, along with many other councils, to explore ways to increase the supply of social and affordable housing. We’d like to know what you think of our Social and Affordable Housing policy. Draft 2020/21 Budget We’re investing $206.2m in everyday services and $65.9m in exciting new projects for the local community in the Draft 2020/21 Budget. Tell us if we’ve got the mix right.

Fencing approved for dog off-leash areas The popular dog off-leash areas at Roy Dore Reserve in Carrum and Iluka Reserve in Aspendale will soon be fenced. The fencing is designed to provide better separation between dogs and other park users and had been something the community had been calling for.

Along with the new fencing, Council with put in irrigation, bins, seats and a drinking fountain. Additional works will be undertaken at Roy Dore to provide a shelter, path networks and garden beds. Council is also moving ahead with providing free dog-litter bags at select dog off-leash parks and reserves across Kingston following

a successful 6-month trial of dog litter dispensers. Council will now explore expanding this to other larger, popular dog off-leash reserves. kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 15

WINTER 2020 MAY Register your child for 2020 sessional kindergarten

What's On Storytime Live Stream Join this popular Kingston Libraries program now offered online every week day.

Registrations for four year old kindergarten in 2021 are now open. To be included in the first allocation, please submit your registration by 30 June 2020. For more information go to Kingston.vic.gov.au/kindergarten

Due to COVID-19 many community centres and clubs have cancelled events and activities but some are now introducing online programming. Stay busy at home and check with your local Community Centres and Neighbourhood Houses to see what they are offering. Virtual Book Club All book lovers welcome to join this brand new online program. New book announced each month. To join visit Kingston Libraries Virtual Book Group on Facebook

Sahaja True Meditation Cheltenham (delivered online) Every Wednesday | 7pm-8pm Join in this FREE class and learn to find and activate your own inner peace, balance and wisdom. Contact Julia 0402 071 764

THURSDAY 28 MAY

WEDNESDAY 10 JUNE Virtual Art Tap into your creative abilities, this class suits all skill levels. Different mediums and styles will be explored. Mordialloc Neighbourhood House (delivered online) Every Wednesday in June 10am-12pm FREE for Current House Members. $20 for new members. Call 9587 4534 to book. Rainbow of Hope Mural Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkdale

Cyber Safety & Security Program 2 - 4pm | Online Kingston Libraries Bookings required, 1300 135 668 THURSDAY 4 JUNE

FRIDAY 29 MAY

TUESDAY 2 JUNE

Virtual Lego® Club Join Kingston Libraries Virtual LEGO® Club and let your inner-engineer be inspired with weekly challenges! 4 - 5pm Visit Kingston Libraries website for details.

Enjoy your devices virtually Mordialloc Neighbourhood House (delivered online) Every Tuesday in June FREE for Current House Members. $20 for new members. Call 9587 4534 to book.

English classes Cheltenham Primary School (delivered online via Zoom) Learn English for FREE in a friendly space, with a qualified ESL teacher and a team of volunteers.

Come down and visit Shirley Burke Theatre and see the vibrant new mural by local artist Deb McNaughton. The artwork pays homage to the Rainbow Trail movement which has inspired families to draw rainbows on their footpaths and driveways, as a sign of unity.

Thursdays during school term 5 - 6.30pm Contact Roslyn via email at learningenglish@cheltpc.org.au FRIDAY 5 JUNE

JUNE Kingston Active at Home Live workouts every Wednesday and Friday on the Kingston Active website. 9.30am live on Facebook every Wednesday and Friday as well.

WEDNESDAY 3 JUNE

Stitch, Sew, Create Virtually Mordialloc Neighbourhood House (delivered online) Every Friday in June 9.45am-12.15pm All levels welcome. FREE for Current House Members. $20 for new members.Call 9587 4534 to book

Councillor Information Session

Street tree pruning Dingley: May - June 20 Waterways: July 20 Parkdale: July - Aug 20 Mordialloc: Aug - Sep 20

Join an online workshop to find out more about becoming a local councillor. 6pm-8pm | for details visit, kingston.vic.gov.au/elections

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.

We will undertake street tree pruning in your area for at least 14 days, but no more than 60 days, prior to the planned day that pruning or removal is to occur.