Kingston Your City - Spring 2023

kingston.vic.gov.au

cityofkingston kingstoncc kingstoncouncil kingstoncitycouncil info@kingston.vic.gov.au

PO Box 1000, Mentone, 3194 Bunurong Country

CUSTOMER CARE

1300 653 356

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Next Council meetings:

Monday 25 September, Monday 23 October and Monday 20 November.

Next Planning meetings:

Wednesday 20 September, Wednesday 18 October and Wednesday 22 November.

All other meeting times and dates and the link to live stream a meeting can be found on our website.

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

The City of Kingston proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and custodians of this land, and we pay our respect to their Elders, past and present and emerging.

COVER PHOTO

Junior Mayor Alexandra Shewan, Deputy Jr Mayor Vanessa Comarmond spend an afternoon with the important seniors in their lives, grandparents Trevor Shewan, Marie-Claire Comarmond and Max Rumble at Bicentennial Park, Chelsea.

Support swells for new centre

So far, we’ve received more than 6,500 pieces of feedback to help shape our new Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

In the latest stage of consultation more than 1,400 people took part – and excitement about the new centre is clear!

Thanks to everyone who shared opinions of the draft concept design. More than 96 per cent of you expressed support for the plan.

Community input every step of the way on this project has been invaluable. Your feedback and ideas will be used by the architect throughout the year to help inform the detailed design.

You’ve told us you want a safe, welcoming, environmentally sustainable centre that celebrates its natural environment. Variety, accessibility and sustainability are key themes in the design.

This new district-level, fully-electric centre will be built next to Jack Grut Reserve in Mordialloc. We’re pleased to have received a funding commitment

of $20 million from the Australian Government and are seeking further funding from the Victorian Government for this important investment in health and well-being. Demolition kicks off this year with major construction scheduled to begin mid to late 2024.

WHAT’S COMING

A multi-purpose 50m lap pool, learn-to-swim pool, warm-water exercise pool, a leisure pool, gym and fitness areas, sauna and steam rooms, café, foyer, carpark and changerooms.

View the draft concept plan:

Celebrate diversity at Spring Fair

Get excited! Our all-ages, family-friendly Spring Fair will bring the community together for a jam-packed day of fun, food, music, games and more.

The fair will have a great array of activities, games, workshops, food and beverage trucks, and live entertainment across two stages. There’s something for everyone – and it’s free!

There will be plenty of accessible seating areas, and you’re welcome to bring your own picnic. Spring Fair is at heart a community event and is a wonderful way for us to celebrate our diversity through food, music, and performances.

Last year more than 3,500 people attended and we’re looking forward to even more for Spring Fair 2023.

SUSTAINABLE FUN

This year, we’re introducing reusable cups in line with our Plastic Free Kingston push and our commitment to waste reduction.

To reduce your carbon footprint, consider coming by public transport, car sharing, walking or cycling.

Positive plan awaits Minister’s approval

We’ve been working hand-in-hand with our local community to develop a positive plan to play our part in tackling the housing crisis, while preserving the unique character of our neighbourhoods.

New housing zones that will guide future development across Kingston have been reviewed by an independent planning panel and are now awaiting approval from Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny.

As outlined by the panel, Kingston’s plan will enable sufficient growth to meet the Victorian Government’s forecast demand for housing in our city over the next couple of decades at least.

While largely supportive of Council’s draft, the independent panel did propose a small number of changes. Council agreed with most of the panel’s suggestions, but wholeheartedly rejected advice to increase allowed building heights along sections of the foreshore in Mentone and Parkdale from two storeys to three storeys.

We embarked on this city-shaping process in response to the Victorian Government’s Plan Melbourne

and are committed to ensuring Kingston is well-planned, with future growth centred in and around our key activity centres, close to public transport, shops, and services.

Housing is a critical issue for all levels of government and innovative solutions are needed to deliver much-needed housing supply while retaining Melbourne’s status as one of the world’s most liveable cities.

WOMEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Our search for incredible Kingston women is on again!

Nominations are open for Kingston Women of the Year Awards which celebrate the outstanding contribution women are making to industry, community and society.

Last year we attracted 38 inspiring nominees with aviation industry trailblazer Adrianne Fleming OAM awarded the 2023 Kingston Woman of the Year.

Do you know someone who should be celebrated? Nominate them today.

AFLW RETURNS TO MOORABBIN

Our Planning Scheme Amendment, which embeds Melbourne’s newest Housing Strategy and Neighbourhood Character Study, aims to:

• channel medium and high-density housing to appropriate areas, including activity centres and along Nepean Highway

• acknowledge the unique characters of our suburbs

• encourage a diverse range of housing options to suit changing needs of our community

• provide some of the most environmentally sustainable building standards in Victoria and

• direct key issues including building heights, setbacks and landscaping.

The 2023 AFLW season is about to kickoff and Kingston residents can enjoy all the action right here in Moorabbin with the Saints hosting plenty of games at RSEA Park. The family-friendly events are low-cost, with tickets just $10 for adults and free entry for under-18s. The venue is just a short walk from Moorabbin Station. See back page for upcoming games.

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HARD WASTE MADE EASY

You can now book two free on-call hard waste collections per financial year.

The easy-to-use new system replaces the single annual collection that used to take place September/October. Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ hard-waste or download our great new waste app Binston.

Hard waste pick-ups kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 3

From L to R: Previous Kingston Women of the Year Jess McKenna, Nidhi Shah, Sarah Loh, Adrianne Fleming OAM, and Aunty Katrina Amon.

Made in Kingston

When we switched on the restored iconic Nylex neon sign on Nepean Highway Mentone, we discovered parents of three Kingston Councillors had all worked for the company.

Cr Chris Hill’s dad Richard was involved in industrial research at the site in the 1970s. At the same time, Cr Tracey Davies’ mum Hope Barnett, now in her 90s, was part of the HR team. Fast forward to 2000 and Cr Tim Cochrane’s father Ross spent many years visiting the site as Finance Manager for the company. The Nylex clock, erected in 1967, fell into disrepair after the factory closed in 2006 and the Mordialloc and District Historical Society had long been advocating for the restoration of this local icon. Earlier this year we switched the repaired timepiece back on.

Kingston has long been an employment hub in Melbourne’s south-east and while Nylex has gone, the south-east region is Victoria’s key manufacturing heartland generating $40 billion annually and providing approximately 90,000 jobs.

National Institute of Economic and Industry Research data shows manufacturing is the largest employer in Kingston, generating 16,902 local jobs.

We are home to around 15 different types of manufacturing industries, making everything from food to furniture and textiles to transport equipment.

Food product manufacturing tops the list employing about 3,700 people, followed by machinery and equipment manufacturing with about 1,949 workers.

Did you know?

Kingston’s Gross Regional Product is estimated at $12.42 billion – 2.48% of Victoria’s Gross State Product.

Spreading festive cheer

It’s hard to believe but Christmas is just around the corner and local traders are already gearing up for it. We can all support them by shopping local.

Council has listened and responded to community calls for greater investment in

decorations to heighten community pride at this special time of year. With so many strip shopping centres across Kingston, it’s challenging and costly to add festive touches to them all. However, we will spread Christmas cheer by:

• Featuring decorations at five key locations (with additional locations in 2024 and 2025)

• Adding window decorations at key Council buildings such as libraries and community centres

• Offering free festive window decals to local retailers.

Cr Tim Cochrane’s dad Ross, Cr Tracey Davies’ mum Hope and Cr Chris Hill’s dad Richard.

Glamorous awards night

Final preparations are underway for our very first Sustainable Business Awards.

The stylish gala event will be a celebration of the sustainable practices of some our amazing local businesses.

The inaugural awards are an opportunity to showcase and applaud their achievements. Many of Kingston’s inventive, creative business owners are making huge strides in things such as dealing with and reducing waste, ethical sourcing of materials or reducing their carbon footprint.

The Sustainable Business Awards are presented across six categories – waste reduction and the circular economy, edthical sourcing and procurement, diversity and inclusion, sustainable leadership and net zero 2030. We are proud of all the nominees and the heartening advances they are making in this space.

The festivities will increase awareness of best practices and demonstrate how they benefit our community and our environment. Party with us as we announce the winners. Meet our finalists, network with local businesses and congratulate those who are helping create a healthier and better Kingston.

Kingston City Hall, Moorabbin, Wednesday 25 October at 6pm. Tickets at kingston.vic.gov.au/ business-awards

BOOSTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Supporting our innovative and diverse business community is a key focus for Council.

We provide a range of initiatives and resources to support and develop local businesses and to get the community engaged with the huge range of retail, manufacturing, hospitality venues and services in their neighbourhoods.

Hundreds of people recently turned out for ‘A Day in Mordi Village’, with gourmet food tastings, workshops, tours and classes on offer from local businesses as diverse as Mordialloc Dance School’s Glittery Tapping Wonderland, Mordialloc Vintage Market, Braeside Brewing Co and so much more. This exciting pocket precinct, bordered by the Epsom Conservation Reserve, is home to a collective of innovative and creative makers and producers.

We also have an exciting mural project planned for the village in early 2024.

In August, people of all ages hit the streets for Moorabbin Junction After Dark enjoying beautiful lights from artist Carla O’Brien from Volta International, delicious dishes from local eateries, live music and a silent disco.

POP-UP PLAZA

We’re bringing a Summer Pop-up Plaza to The Strand in Chelsea following successful projects in Mordialloc and the Highett Village Common.

We’ve been asking for your input to help plan The Strand pop-up and look forward to bringing some of your ideas to life this summer.

Glittery Tapping dance class at A Day in Mordi Village.

Disco delight at Moorabbin After Dark.

#107 services in 120 days 120 kingston.vic.gov.au | Page 5

out how your rates are investing in our community every day.

Proudly supporting local groups

More than $1.6 million in annual grants funding is being shared among community groups and charities.

The grants support the great work of local groups including emergency support organisations, social welfare, community groups, multicultural communities, sporting clubs and more. We are proud to partner with them to support the positive impact they have in our community.

More than 115 Community Grants have been allocated this year including for pre-schools, play groups and other early learning activities, multicultural and seniors’ organisations, emergency service providers and for groups to hold community events and activities.

The projects supported include:

% $3,200 for the Mordialloc Men’s Shed Inc – who provide a workshop environment for community connection while making items that support other community groups.

% $1,500 for new toys for the Kingston Toy Library to support local families.

% $5,000 for the Mentone Community Garden Club for new fencing and gate.

% $2,000 for the Peninsula Dragonfly’s Dragon Boat Club for a safety coaching boat for their training on the Patterson River in Carrum.

A HUB OF ACTIVITY

Kingston supports a wide range of neighbourhood houses and community centres offering a range of opportunities for learning, upskilling, connecting with others, health and fitness and just having fun.

A shout out to all the volunteers and staff in the myriad of community groups and organisations who keep these places thriving.

BOOSTING OUR ARTS SCENE

Our annual arts grants are an investment in projects for the entire community to enjoy.

We’re proud to be building a strong creative community. In addition to running a host of arts programs, performances, and activities through Kingston Arts venues, we also want to support local artists to get new projects off the ground.

This year’s arts grants support projects from a podcast and public art displays right through to art exhibitions, theatre performances and a children’s book.

Find out more at:

KINGSTON CHARITABLE FUND

This year 12 charities have shared $75,580 from the charitable fund which is held and managed by The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation. Autism Spectrum Australia, Brainwave Australia, Cancer Patients Foundation and food-rescue charity Fare Share were among the grant recipients.

For a full list and more about the fund visit:

Climbing fun at Nola Barber kindergarten.

Taking care of a plot at Mentone Community Garden Club.

Peninsula Dragonflys Dragon Boat Club on the water at Carrum.

A whole month of activities, classes, workshops, live music and more! Kingston Seniors Fest will get you out of the house and connecting with others this October.

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Happy healthy ageing

From the rock n roll of Elvis impersonator Rick Charles to the sing-along country tunes of Sandie Dodd; from Chatty Café catchups to musical morning teas our sensational Seniors Fest is back with a bang.

As always, we’ve worked with community groups and seniors’ clubs to put together a whole month of free and low-cost activities, classes, workshops, live music and more throughout October, kicking off on 1 October –International Day of

the Older Persons

Older people who are socially engaged are happier and healthier than those who are isolated, and our festival is designed to give our over 55s an opportunity to connect with others, a chance to learn new things, upskill or simply have fun.

A taste of festival fun

We have more than 100 activities and events lined up. Have fun, boost your brain power or simply connect with others. Here’s a taster.

WALKING GROUP

One-hour social nature walk in Braeside Park followed by coffee and nibbles. BYO coffee.

Monday 2 October, 9.30am – 11.30am

Bookings essential, contact John 0447 049 521 or jfree6@tpg.com.au

LOVE TO LIVE CLASS

Seated movement program for those living with age-related limitations.

Wednesday 4 October, 12pm – 12.45pm

Cheltenham Community Centre: 8 Chesterville Road, Cheltenham

Bookings essential, contact Cheltenham Community Centre 9583 0095 or admin@chelt.com.au

AUTHOR TALK

Author Dawn Mauldon on her book Unheard Voices.

Thursday 5 October, 2-3pm

Chelsea Library, 1 Chelsea Road, Chelsea Bookings essential, contact Kingston Libraries 1300 135 668 or library@ kingston.vic.gov.au

LAUGH AND PAINT

Enjoy a glass of champagne while creating your masterpiece. Includes a light afternoon tea.

Monday 9 October, 1-3pm

Mordialloc Community Centre, 115A Warren Road, Parkdale Bookings essential, contact Mordialloc Community Centre 9580 3675.

ADVANCED CARE PLANNING

Learn about planning your future health care and creating an Advanced Care Directive from AccessCare and Monash Health.

Wednesday 11 October, 10.30am –11.30am

City of Kingston office, 34 Brindisi St, Mentone Contact 1300 819 200.

KNIT AND SEW

Learn while you enjoy great conversation and morning tea.

Friday 27 October, 10am – 12.30pm

Clarinda Community Centre, 58B Viney St, Clarinda. Contact 8551 1200.

There’s so much more. Check out the listings online or pick up your copy of the Seniors Festival Booklet for all the details. The booklet also includes articles about active people aged 55+, as well as health and wellbeing information.

Find full listing and where you can grab a booklet at kingston.vic.gov.au/seniors-festival

Sharing your love of play

Thank you to the 2,000+ people – from toddlers to seniors – who had their say on the future of play in Kingston. We love your enthusiasm.

We heard from a wide range of eager locals, from toddlers at the Patterson Lakes Community Centre’s Tiny Tots Rhyme Time session right through to our senior AccessCare clients – and everyone in between.

We visited more than 25 community settings, including community

centres, schools, kindergartens, libraries and farmers’ markets, to hear how, what, when, where and why you play. We gathered valuable feedback that will help shape our draft ‘Play Your Way’ strategy. We will consult on that later this year. Stay tuned!

Bringing the fun to you

We’re investing in local playgrounds to provide fun, active spaces for all.

Aspendale’s upgraded Carinya Avenue Reserve playground is already a hit, featuring play equipment for all ages.

New seats, garden beds and trees enhance the space and a new footpath connects Carinya and Connewarra Avenues.

We’re also delivering new playgrounds at Mavis Hutter Reserve in Oakleigh South and Peter Scullin Reserve in Mordialloc are set to create exciting, adventurous play experiences this season.

Keep

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Train to be a swim teacher

We’ve got a great opportunity for anyone interested in becoming a qualified swim teacher. Join our great team at Waves and we’ll cover the costs of training.

Participants will have the cost of their qualifications covered, receive payment for their in-water training and have invaluable support and mentoring.

On successful completion, participants will be offered casual employment as a qualified swim teacher. Visit kingstoncareers. mercury.com.au

Gardens for wildlife

From large gardens to small balconies we can all provide shelter, food and water for native wildlife.

For example, Australian Painted Lady Butterflies love nectar producing flowers such as Cut-leaf Daisy or Common Pimelea.

To learn how to create habitat book a free garden visit from us at kingston.vic.gov.au/g4w

Towards a sustainable future

We’re well on our way to eliminating Council emissions and are encouraging our community to join us.

After joining with councils across Australia in declaring a Climate and Ecological Emergency, we adopted an emergency response plan.

This includes targets of net zero emissions by 2025 for Council operations and net zero by 2030 for the community.

We’ve reduced Council’s annual emissions from 2,600 kilotons in 2016 down to 2,000 and we’re supporting local businesses and community to take action.

Our key focus is on supporting low carbon living, future-proofing business and industry, transitioning to sustainable transport, transforming Council operations, drawing down or capturing carbon and delivering a climate adaptation plan.

Among other actions, we are working on the expansion of the public EV charging network, a small trial program of in-home energy assessments for seniors, increasing the use of recycled material in Council roads and engaging with businesses.

Discussions with more than 30 businesses so far have identified 3,000 tonnes of C0 2 equivalent savings per year.

Our Urban Forest Strategy aims to increase our tree canopy to 20 percent by 2050 and our Public Health and Well Being Plan includes climate change considerations.

For much more visit:

Our 45-member Community Panel is meeting soon to start providing feedback on our work to achieve NetZero 2030. For more visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ panelupdate

DID YOU KNOW WE:

% recycled 510,000 glass bottles and more than 18,000 plastic containers in asphalt resurfacing in 2021/22

% are rolling out 700 LED lights across the city

% diverted more than 800 waste tyres from landfill to create a pavement at Old Dandenong Rd and at Jean St Reserve

% have 50,000 properties participating in our foodwaste recycling, diverting more than 4,000 extra tonnes of waste from landfill for composting

% have a temporary soft plastics recycling service

% launched a Plastic Free Kingston initiative

% are installing an innovative high flowrate stormwater treatment at Keely Park, Clayton South.

Visit:

Improving community spaces

Stage One of the $9.47 million rejuvenation of Dingley Village Community Centre delivered the new library, an upgraded Harold Box Hall and community meeting rooms.

U3A Kingston’s art group makes great use of one of the rooms for its regular classes. The group received one of our Annual Grants this year for choir and musical activities.

The next stage of the Dingley upgrade will deliver a modern building that will include a contemporary early-years education and care facility. For more visit u3akingston.org.au and kingston.vic.gov.au/ projects

MAYOR CR HADI SAAB

9581 4706 or 0437 885 142 hadi.saab@kingston.vic.gov.au

Hello Karkarook Ward and Kingston!

Kingston’s many amazing community groups & clubs help make it such a great place to live, work & play.

I am proud to support their great work through our Annual Grants program, with $1.6m distributed this year. These organisations provide invaluable support networks, social engagement and a real sense of belonging for so many people. In this issue of KYC, you’ll have noticed our #120 services in #120 days campaign showing how we’re building a stronger, more connected community together. Check out kingston.vic.gov.au/120-services to see how we are investing in the kind of Kingston we all want to call home.

Speaking of which, a redeveloped GR Bricker Reserve Pavilion will open soon, a beautiful park at Elder Street South Reserve is nearing completion and Clarinda has a new connection to the bike network with a new bike path. And there are more to come!

Next month, we host our inaugural Sustainable Business Awards

I am looking forward to shining a light on local businesses doing great things in sustainability so our community sees how hard they’re working at reducing their carbon footprint and to encourage other businesses by showing what is possible. Keep an eye on our website and socials at the end of October for news of the winners. Finally, on the upcoming referendum on The Voice to Parliament, I encourage you to read as much as you can, listen to discussion and be as informed as possible when you vote.

0437 859 749

jenna.davey-burns@kingston.vic.gov.au

I am so excited to see the transformation of Jean St Reserve, Cheltenham. It looks incredible thanks to locals putting in their ideas and support from Victoria Police and Westfield Southland. The revamped reserve has play equipment for all ages and abilities, new planting, seating and will shortly feature a beautiful mural. I am thrilled the new path has been made from recycled rubber – diverting about 800 Australian waste tyres from landfill! Big thanks to our staff for their passion too.

On to another exciting and long-awaited project – heartfelt thanks for your input on the temporary pop up pocket park at the old Highett Preschool, closed because the building was old and unsafe. Local parents told me how important this site is and while we find a new home for our kindergarten (and with level crossing removal announced by the Victorian Government) we needed some green space in the heart of Highett. My advocacy for more and improved cycling paths in Kingston continues. Feedback on our Draft Walking and Cycling Plan is under review, with a report to follow soon.

You can also give feedback on our draft Open Space strategy and draft Green Wedge Management Plan 2023.

We have welcomed our new Arts and Culture Committee members and wow, SO much talent, creativity and wisdom in the room! I encourage everyone to access as much information as you can about the upcoming referendum on a Voice to Parliament, so you cast an informed vote when the time comes. There are resources and information available at Kingston libraries and hubs. Finally, massive shout out to Highett Netball team for winning the Grand Final –Go Doggies!

0429 171 449

george.hua@kingston.vic.gov.au

As you know, we are transforming the Dingley Village Community Precinct to ensure it meets the needs of our community into the future.

The first stage of the $9.47 million rejuvenation has delivered the wonderful new Dingley Village Library, an upgraded Harold Box Hall and connection between the two buildings featuring a multipurpose foyer and additional community meeting rooms. The next stage is now underway and will include a modern building that will include a contemporary early-years education and care facility, maternal and child health space, flexible community programming and meeting areas, public amenities, a commercial kitchen, a basketball court and a spacious reception area.

While the Dingley Village Neighbourhood Centre is closed during construction, key community services will be temporarily relocated. You can find details on our website kingston.vic.gov.au/council/ projects-and-works/projects/dingleyvillage-community-precinct-stage-2 In other good news, we recently signed 30-year agreement with Hawthorn Football Club. This ensures shared AFLW and community use of a new oval and pavilion at the Hawks’ new Dingley Village headquarters on Tootal Road.

The partnership between Kingston and the Hawthorn Football Club is an exciting boost for local sport that will provide pathways into elite women’s football and help boost the local economy through construction and ongoing jobs.

It’s great to think that we could soon be seeing the next generation of young footy stars getting their start on a brand-new community oval here in Dingley Village.

CR GEORGE HUA

CR JENNA DAVEY-BURNS

Jackie (l) and Catherine (far right) welcomed Councillors George Hua, Jenna Davey-Burns and Mayor Cr Hadi Saab (centre) to their U3A art class in Dingley Village Neighbourhood Centre.

Ward News

Craft and a laugh

Our many community groups are a hub of learning, connection and wellbeing in their neighbourhoods.

Aspendale Gardens Community Centre’s knitting group showed us they’re also a place of fun and conversation. The centre offers a range of services such as youth and children programs including kindergarten, playgroup, and basketball. Adult programs include knitting groups, art and

City of WardsKingston !

fitness classes, dance and acting classes and more. The space is used for local events such the Children’s Market.

CR STEVE STAIKOS

0447 896 643

steve.staikos@kingston.vic.gov.au

Spring Fair!

Our ever-popular family-friendly Spring Fair is just around the corner! There’ll be free amusement rides, games, live performances and more, so save the date! Saturday 21 October from 10am to 4pm at Keeley Park, Clayton South. See you there!

Update on Bus Route 631

I am pleased to report that the State Government announced buses will continue travelling along Clarinda and Bunney Roads following community feedback on proposed changes to Route 631 linked to the permanent closure of part of Old Dandenong Road.

Other network changes will see the 821 route Southland – Clayton via Heatherton discontinued due to service duplication on sections of the route now covered by the revised 631 Southland to Waverley Gardens via Clayton and Monash University. In return, frequency on Route 631 will be boosted to every 20 minutes during the AM and PM peaks, with Sunday services to start earlier. New housing, Oakleigh South I am happy to report the new tenants have been welcomed into the modular homes in Oakleigh South which were commissioned to support homeless people in Kingston. A block of six homes is now helping to address short to medium term homelessness by providing safe and secure accommodation quickly.

For detailed maps of your ward see kingston.vic.gov.au/wards

Kingston’s home care and support services provider, AccessCare, is working with Launch Housing, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and Council on this wonderful project. Delivery of social housing has long been a passion of mine and this is the type of action that can turn around lives quickly and effectively.

The service has received funding for playground equipment via our 2023-24 annual grants.

Visit agcsinc.org.au

CR

TAMSIN BEARSLEY

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

Rossdale Golf Club’s announcement that it hopes to rezone and sell off its Aspendale site for housing has concerned many of you. No case has yet been made for rezoning and I want to assure the community Council is pushing for a robust process to be followed before any decisions on the site’s future are made.

Planning steps that must be taken before a golf course can be redeveloped are set out in the Victorian Government’s ‘Planning Guidelines for Golf Course Redevelopment’ and the golf course redevelopment standing advisory committee was appointed by the Minister for Planning in 2019 to advise on redevelopment of golf course land within metropolitan Melbourne.

Council shares local concerns about the club’s presumption the site is appropriate for residential development.

We have written to Rossdale Golf Club and the Victorian Minister for Planning Sonia Kilkenny, flagging the site’s significant environmental values, proximity to the RAMSAR listed Edithvale/Seaford Wetlands and the fact the site was not identified in Kingston’s Housing Strategy as necessary for use for future housing growth.

I will keep you posted.

Now, a shout out to our wonderful libraries. We have eight branches offering print and digital resources and a huge range of activities, classes, story times and events. There is so much on offer for every age group. So, this Spring show them some love. Try something new or reconnect with your local if it’s been a while.

You won’t be disappointed.

Bunjil Ward | Yammerbook Ward

Councillors Steve Staikos (l) and Tamsin Bearsley get knitting tips at Aspendale Gardens Community Service.

CR TRACEY DAVIES

0438 108 611

tracey.davies@kingston.vic.gov.au

Thanks to everyone who has been supporting the Kingston Farmers’ Market at its new(ish) home at Kingston Heath Reserve. Stall holders and shoppers have settled in well to their beautiful new surrounds.

We are now working with the Mordialloc Neighbourhood House and Mordialloc Community Centre to design canvas shopping bags for the market. It’s all part of our plastic-free Kingston push where we’re supporting our residents to start saying no to problematic plastics.

Small actions, such as switching to a reusable shopping bag, can make a big impact.

And market visitors can now enjoy a beautiful new work by artist Angharad Neal-Williams. Angharad has transformed a storage container with a stunning, colourful mural depicting community connection, nature, and the market experience.

Our commitment to improving sporting grounds and community recreation facilities – supported by a $2.5 million Victorian Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program grant –has seen 10 significant lighting projects now completed across Kingston.

Those of you who’ve watched or played hockey at Kingston Heath in the past year will know what a boost the 8 new poles and LED lighting fixtures is for players.

Not so long ago I was congratulating Head of Operations and Chief Flying Instructor at Tristar Aviation at Moorabbin Airport, Adrianne Fleming for scooping the 2023 Kingston Woman of the Year Award.

But now we’re starting our search again for incredible Kingston women. Do you know a woman who deserves to be celebrated?

Check out our Women of the Year Awards at kingston.vic.gov.au/women-of-the-year

Suburban oasis

A former State Electricity Commission Depot and empty house block have been transformed into a haven thanks to enthusiastic gardeners and veggie growers.

More than 90 members of the Mentone Community Garden Club have a plot of land to use as well as access to a communal pool of gardening equipment. The club is so popular it always has a lengthy waiting list for membership.

CR CHRIS HILL

0437 913 851

chris.hill@kingston.vic.gov.au

After many years of work and our largest-ever community engagement exercise, Council’s Housing Strategy and Neighbourhood Character Study has been lodged with the Minister for Planning for approval. Council has worked hand-in-hand with our community to develop a positive plan to accommodate our share of population growth, housed in new greener developments, while still preserving the unique character of our neighbourhoods. I would like to thank the community for its significant contribution to this work over recent years.

It was a pleasure stepping up to act as Mayor recently, representing Council at events, including the gala performance of MLOC’s “Fiddler on the Roof” and the Moorabbin After Dark event, featuring fantastic neon art installations.

Our Junior Mayor event each May is always a standout in our calendar and it was great to officially welcome the new Junior Council recently to our chambers.

After years under the management of the LXRP, the open spaces and landscaped gardens created at the Carrum, Mentone and Cheltenham level crossing removal projects have now been handed over to Council to maintain. A big shout out to our Council crews who will be responsible for this important work moving forward.

In Mentone we’re fortunate to have the strong support of the Friends of Mentone Station Gardens led by Dorothy Booth –the Heritage Gardens are in very safe hands! The gardens at Cheltenham Station are also a significant addition. Both station areas are important community assets that give locals and commuters beautiful peaceful spaces to relax. When you are next in Mentone check out Kingston’s first augmented reality art installation at the Mentone Heritage Station.

CR TIM COCHRANE

0437 843 837

tim.cochrane@kingston.vic.gov.au

Wow – more than 1,300 of you came out to chat to us at our pop-up engagement events for the new Aquatic and Leisure Centre! Thanks so much for your feedback on the draft concept design. It was fantastic to meet you and hear your ideas.

Your input will help inform the detailed design. This is an important and exciting project and I love talking to community members about this incredible addition to Mordialloc and the benefits it will have for the whole of Kingston. There is an enthusiasm in the community for this and I am excited to see the project getting closer to turning soil each day. A huge thanks to all who’ve taken the time to tell us what you think over the course of the project so far!

We’ve recently completed cleaning and defect-repair in Mordialloc shopping precinct. Keeping Council assets clean and safe in our shopping areas is important to traders and the broader community. I, and other Councillors, want to ensure Kingston’s shopping strips have programmed cleaning and proactive maintenance. In my opinion, it’s a staple service and expectation of ratepayers.

I’ll end with a shout out to our great community who turned out for our incredibly successful Mordi Village (the industrial precinct off Governor Rd, behind Braeside Brewing) open day. Your support for the amazing array of makers, producers and creatives in this area is greatly appreciated. There was so much to taste, to try and to discover. Please, keep that support alive and keep shopping local! Council is working with traders, owners and the surrounding community to reimagine the Mordi Village offering to our community. Watch this space!

The club, which formed in February 1981, encourages the use of organic methods for weed and pest control. The City of Kingston provides the land and council

services at the Venice and Remo Streets, Mentone site. The club received $5,000 from our annual community grants this year for a new fence and entrance gate.

Councillors Tracey Davis and Chris Hill with keen gardeners at Mentone Community Garden Club.

CR CAMERON HOWE 0429 498 028

cameron.howe@kingston.vic.gov.au

Spring is a mecca for snapper fishing at Patterson River and our waterways are becoming busy. There is much to explore on the water with our kayaking, dragon boating, sailing and lifesaving clubs all offering outlets. Below is an update on what’s going on in our backyard of Patterson Lakes, Carrum and Bonbeach (based on the advice at print with indicative timelines).

Happening: Carrum SLSC extension, Roy Dore Reserve tennis clubhouse, Bonbeach Reserve east YCW clubhouse maintenance, Bonbeach Reserve civil drainage and multipurpose cricket net bay improvements.

Upcoming in 2023/early 2024: Patterson Lakes Plaza boardwalk (pending OC agreement), Carrum Activity Centre minor refurbishment, reconstruction of Church Road and pending approvals, the Kananook Creek viewing platform.

Pipeline for early-mid 2024: Beauty

Spot (Carrum) renovation, Patterson River sculpture trail (first sculpture), and northern Carrum boardwalk extension, featuring a viewing platform with 180-degree views.

Under review: Bonbeach Reserve east YCW clubhouse upgrades and lighting options at Roy Dore Reserve, between Dyson Road and Palm Beach Drive against municipal priorities.

Other news: New street-to-trail ramps at the state-owned Patterson River are scheduled this year, and Melbourne Water are progressing a litter trap solution upstream to mitigate pollution. Meanwhile, state representatives are also reviewing and will provide their position on a toilet at Bonbeach Railway Station.

Facebook: Cameron Howe

Instagram: @camhowe

Creating friendships

Members of the Patterson Lakes Combined Probus Club know the meaning of social connection and the value of friendships.

They meet once a month and invite a speaker, trying to ensure a wide range of topics are covered and a variety of tastes catered for. Following the meeting they go to a local venue (giving their support to as many venues as they can) for lunch and a chat.

CR GEORGINA OXLEY 0429 222 504 georgina.oxley@kingston.vic.gov.au

Many of you had raised concerns about pedestrian safety, traffic speeds, congestion and parking in Chelsea – centred around Thames Promenade, Station Street, Glenola Road and Scotch Parade – and we created Local Area Traffic Management Plan to address this.

In June, we opened up for a consultation with the community.

We sent postcards to Chelsea residents to let them know about the draft plan and I have been keen to get your feedback.

Thank you to everyone who came to our face-face consultation and took the time to engage with us on this important issue. Our aim is to reduce casualty crashes and improve the flow, safety and use of our local roads.

All the community input will be considered now as we finalise a Local Area Traffic Management Plan.

Stay up to date at yourkingstonyoursay. com.au/chelsea-latm

Some of you will know we recently undertook a six-week clean-up blitz of some of our activity centres – including footpath renewal at Bonbeach shopping precinct. Improving amenity and safety for the community and local traders is vital and feedback has been positive.

Good news – work is underway on a new Disc Golf course in Bicentennial Park. The proposed course layout was developed in consultation with the Melbourne Disc Golf Club and our community and includes 18 target baskets and 9 tee areas.

I am looking forward to seeing residents of all ages enjoying Disc Golf in the park soon.

CR DAVID EDEN 0422 557 917 david.eden@kingston.vic.gov.au

We are working closely with local businesses to inform designs for the revitalisation of the Edithvale shopping strip on the Nepean Highway. Ideas for new infrastructure, greenery and public art have been included in a questionnaire sent to adjacent businesses, outlining the project vision. Early conceptual ideas have also been presented to the Edithvale Collective.

This input is important and trader responses will be taken into consideration when finalising concept plans which will be shared at the drop-in sessions planned for this month.

Construction of the $2.3 million project (Victorian Government funding) is scheduled for 2025/26 and Council will allocate $1 million for drainage upgrades at the same time.

Working with and boosting local businesses is a key focus for Council.

Last month we held ‘Moorabbin Junction

After Dark’ with interactive art and live music, giving Station Street hospitality businesses an opportunity to showcase themselves.

In Mordialloc, the Mordi Village open day was an incredible success with the community turning out in large numbers to explore the businesses the area has to offer.

And, at the end of July we hosted a business delegation from China who were visiting to learn about Kingston as a strong manufacturing and technology jobs hub. We are home to many industries which do business internationally, and the visit was about strengthening relationships.

I am always supportive of events that bring people out to connect and explore. They promote a healthy community and are a boost to the local economy.

The club has an active membership who regularly enjoy outings together, visiting new places, dining out or going to the theatre, are accommodated.

The club received a $1,000 grant from our Annual Grants this year to cover the cost of a bus trip.

Find out how your rates are investing in our community every day. kingston.vic.gov.au/120services

#120servicesin120days

Banksia Ward | Longbeach Ward | Sandpiper Ward

Members of Patterson Lakes Combined Probus Club meeting for a cuppa.

What’s On

SEPTEMBER

MONDAY 18 SEPTEMBER –

SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER

KALEIDOSCOPE

Kingston Arts Centre and Kingston City Hall

979-985 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin

This school holiday arts program is designed for 10–17-year-olds. Participants have the chance to explore dance, music, theatre classes and art workshops. Guided by skilled artist-educators and supported by dedicated staff. Visit kingstonarts.com.au/ whats-on

24 SEPTEMBER AND 7, 14, 28 OCTOBER

AFLW RETURNS TO MOORABBIN

RSEA Park, 32/60 Linton St

The 2023 AFLW season is about to kick-off with the Saints hosting plenty of games.

The family-friendly events are low-cost. $10 for adults and free entry for under-18s.

Upcoming games:

Sunday 17 September –St Kilda vs Port Adelaide

Sunday 24 September –St Kilda vs Collingwood

Saturday 7 October –St Kilda vs Hawthorn

Saturday 14 October –St Kilda vs GWS

Saturday 28 October –St Kilda vs Brisbane Lions

OCTOBER

SPRING 2023

WEDNESDAY 18 OCTOBER

SENIORS FESTIVAL: HISTORY OF YOUR HOUSE

2pm – 3pm Parkdale Library

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY 4 OCTOBER

MONDAY 9 OCTOBER

FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER

SENIORS FESTIVAL; DIGITAL DEVICE WORKSHOP

2pm – 3.30pm

Cheltenham Library and Chelsea Library (Oct 9) 11am – 12.30pm Parkdale Library (Oct 27)

Don’t Get Left Behind in the Digital Age is hosted by Kingston Libraries.

Bring your own Smartphone or iPad and library staff can assist you and answer any questions you have. iPads will also be available to practice on and borrow if you wish to. It will be a fun learning environment.

Free but bookings required. Phone 1300 135 668

SUNDAY 8 OCTOBER

BONBEACH FARMERS’ MARKET

8.30am – 12.30pm

29-63 Breeze Street, Bonbeach

Indulge in some of Victoria’s finest fresh farm produce and support the local primary school.

bonbeachfarmersmarket. weebly.com

SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER

DINGLEY VILLAGE FARMERS’ MARKET

8.30am – 1pm

Carpark, 31 Marcus Road Dingley Village

Fun, friendly market with food specialities, meat, fruit, veg, take away eats, luxury gifts.

An informative session for those interested in discovering the history of your house. Genealogy tools such as Ancestry and FindMyPast, and research tips and tricks, will be used to assist you on your history journey.

Free but bookings required. Phone 1300 135 668

SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER

SPRING FAIR

10am – 4pm

Keeley Park, Clayton South

Free family-friendly fun for all ages. Food, music, workshops games and more!

Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ spring-fair

SATURDAY 4 NOVEMBER

KINGSTON FARMERS’ MARKET

8am – 12.30pm

Kingston Heath Reserve, 285 Centre Dandenong Road, Cheltenham

Come for an array of fresh produce and farm-origin food products and stay for the vibe and beautiful location.

The market runs on the first Saturday of the month (except January).

ONGOING

TUESDAY 31 OCTOBER

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION

6pm – 7pm

Cheltenham Library

Interested in volunteering and making a difference in our community? Join us for an informative session and find out how you can be part of something rewarding. Light dinner provided.

Bookings essential. Email: jane.yang@kingston.vic.gov.au Phone 9581 4905

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS GETLOW

10.30am -11.15am (Mon) 10.15am-11am (Wed)

Aspendale Gardens Community Centre

A beat driven low impact 45-minute Low Intensity Training using boxing, dance, dumbbells, light cardio and seriously good music to transform your mind and body. Phone 9587 5955