Kingston Your City - Winter 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 26 June, Monday 24 July and Monday 28 August 2023.

Next Planning meetings: Wednesday 24 June, Wednesday 19 July and Wednesday 23 August 2023.

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

Young binfluencers Jake and April help us launch our great new waste app, Binston.

Aquatic and leisure centre streaks ahead

We have committed to a fully electric, accessible, and sustainable new centre.

The business case, is complete and builds on fantastic community feedback and the valuable work of the community reference group. Residents say variety, accessibility and sustainability are important in the design and these key themes will all feature. A fully electric centre will reduce emissions and the centre will also be accessible and welcoming to people of all abilities. The central elements of this district level centre include a multi-purpose lap swimming pool (50m), a learn-toswim pool, warm water exercise pool, and a leisure pool, gym and fitness facilities, sauna and steam room, a cafe, foyer, carpark and change rooms. This important investment in the health and wellbeing of Kingston is expected to cost $79.2 million. The Australian Government has committed $20 million and we will be seeking further funding from the Victorian Government.

Consulting our community

Thanks to everyone who submitted feedback through our quick polls in May! Our architect is using this to help shape the draft concept design. We will share the draft concept plans later this winter. We are planning public activities throughout the consultation and would love to see you and hear your views.

For more information visit our aquatic and leisure centre web page.

Council delivers much more than just roads, rates and rubbish.

#120 services in 120 days

Your rates help build a strong, connected community across a diverse range of services – from meals delivery to community grants, cycle paths to a farmers market, family and children’s centres to youth events and much, much more.

We’re showcasing our vast range of services in the 120 services in 120 days campaign.

See pages 11-14 for a look at just a few of the ways we are creating a safe, liveable, sustainable Kingston. Plus look for the # symbol throughout this edition as we highlight more of our 120 featured services.

WOMEN OF THE YEAR

In March, aviation industry expert Adrianne Fleming was named Kingston’s 2023 Woman of the Year at our International Women’s Day event at Kingston City Hall. Adrianne is a board member on the Regional Aviation Association of Australia and the AMDA Foundation, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. There were 38 outstanding nominees, with award winners also honoured for Courageous Commitment, Excelling in Art & Sport, Inspiring Innovation, Success in STEM.

THANKING OUR VOLUNTEERS

Kingston has more than 100 volunteer organisations and committees and more than 22,000 individuals generously giving their time and knowledge to our community. Volunteers, from students to retirees, received a certificate of appreciation at our recent Volunteer Appreciation event. They care for the environment, keep sports clubs thriving, deliver library services, teach and support others and so much more.

Love to get involved? Go to kingston.vic.gov.au/ volunteer

Volunteering #115

#18

Some of Kingston’s wonderful volunteers enjoying our Volunteer Appreciation event.

Celebrating Kingston’s best

Our amazing residents and enthusiastic volunteers have been celebrated at a special event to highlight those making a positive impact on our community.

The Kingston Community Awards ceremony was a highlight of our annual Volunteer Appreciation event, creating an exciting occasion of thanks and recognition for those who strive to improve our city, those who contribute to its liveability and sustainability and those who lead, innovate, create.

Mordialloc Jazz Orchestra’s long serving musical director Peter Foley took out our Citizen of the Year award. Peter commenced his lifelong community music journey when in 1968, aged just seven, he joined the orchestra.

He has been musical director there for 30 years, is the Big Band Sunsets Festival Director and Artistic Director of Carols by Kingston. Grass roots, for-purpose charity STEM Incubators and Cheltenham Community Centre are Kingston’s Community Groups of the Year. They teach young people key life skills such as analytical thinking, complex problem solving, creativity, leadership and technology design and programming.

Kingston’s Woman of the Year, Adrianne Fleming.

Mordialloc Jazz Orchestra’s musical director, Peter Foley has been named Kingston’s Citizen of the Year.

Community Awards

Fighting plastic pollution

We have stepped in to deliver a temporary soft plastics recycling service for our community.

Until the soft plastics recycling program is back up and running in our supermarkets, we have started collecting them at various locations across Kingston and you’ve shown your recycling passion by filling the skips fast.

We’ve had a great response so far, having collected more than 50 skips of soft plastic for recycling at APR Plastics.

Use of plastic across the world is expected to double by 2040. By 2050, it is estimated that the amount of plastic in our oceans will outweigh fish. Industry, consumers and governments of all levels have a role in helping end plastic pollution. We are working with our community to start saying no to problematic plastics and striving towards a healthier, cleaner Kingston.

You can play a positive role by reducing the amount of plastic you buy, purchase reusable items rather than single-use plastic ones, such as cling wrap and recycle as much as possible. See our tips on page 5. kingston.vic.gov.au/soft-plastic

If you haven’t already, be sure to start collecting your soft plastics and dropping them off at one of these locations:

• 1230 Nepean Hwy, Cheltenham

• Waves Leisure Centre

• Clarinda Community Centre

• Patterson Lakes Community Centre

• Aspendale Gardens Community Centre

From July 2023, hard waste collections will move to a fully ‘on-demand’ service, with users able to book two free pick-ups each year on the dates that suit you. Providing greater flexibility for households and working to reduce illegally dumped rubbish are the key aims of changes.

Traditionally Kingston has had one collection per year during spring , however the community has expressed a clear preference for more flexibility.

Subscribe for updates at kingston.vic.gov.au/hardwaste

Mayor Cr Hadi Saab celebrates our new partnership with APR Plastics.

Soft Plastics Recycling

#97

Another great way to help in the fight against waste is to join others doing their bit.

BeachPatrol run beach cleans where volunteers donate one hour every month to pick up plastics and other waste. There are six groups in Kingston – Aspendale, Carrum, Chelsea, Mentone, Mordialloc and Parkdale. This year alone, volunteers have collected more than 200kg of rubbish from our coastline.

We caught up recently with Chelsea BeachPatrol where they collected almost 10kg of rubbish including plastic bottles, glass bottles, cans and nurdles (tiny plastic pellets).

Keen to get involved? Join a beach group at beachpatrol.com.au

Meet your new bin buddy, Binston

Binston is an app that will:

% send you a reminder before bin day

% let you know which bins to put out

% help you work out what items go in which bin

% download your bin collection calendar

% book in a hard-waste collection

% access all the waste services available to you in Kingston.

Binston is available for download via the App Store (for iPhones) and the Google Play Store (for Androids).

Think big, act small

Small, everyday actions can make a big impact.

There’s no better way to contribute to a cleaner and healthier community than by changing our own habits.

Try these tips to help reduce your use of plastic. It’s easier than you might think!

For more visit kingston.vic.gov.au/ plastic-free or listen to our informative podcast

Trash Talk:

Our new waste app Binston makes it easier to get your bin day right! It features handy waste and recycling information right at your fingertips.

Action on reconciliation and respect

Educator, Venus and youngsters at Carrum Family and Children’s Centre with their indigenous-inspired artworks.

Since the adoption of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) last year, we have been working with Traditional Owners from The Bunurong Land Council, the Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place, community groups and schools on a range of events, projects, and initiatives.

The RAP Innovate framework is a nationally recognised process adopted by Reconciliation Australia; an independent, not-for-profit organisation. The RAP not only provides us with a strong framework, but includes clear commitments as we strive to advance reconciliation.

Among the key achievements so far, we have endorsed the Uluru Statement from the Heart, developed Acknowledgement

of Country decals for Council buildings in collaboration with the Bunurong Land Council and RAP Advisory Group, supported new programs and events at Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place and our RAP Working Group and senior leaders have undertaken cultural training.

We have also expanded NAIDOC Week celebrations. Read our Innovate RAP.

Reflecting and celebrating

Kingston City Hall’s clock tower and pedestrian bridge will be lit up with projected art as part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations.

And, as we did during Reconciliation Week, our libraries and community hubs will recognise and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The celebrations take place annually from the first Sunday in July. The 2023 National NAIDOC Week theme is For Our Elders.

FLAG RAISING MORNING TEA

Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place, Mordialloc

Monday 3 July, 10.30am–12.30pm

Bookings essential

RSVP to reconciliation@kingston.vic.gov.au

DINNER DANCE

Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place

hosting at:

Southern Golf Club, Keysborough

Friday 30 June, 6pm

Bookings essential

RSVP to reconciliation@kingston.vic.gov.au

FAMILY DAY

Animal encounters, face painting, cultural activities, free BBQ and more.

Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place, Mordialloc

Wednesday 5 July, 10am–2pm

No booking required

FOR OUR ELDERS ARTS EXHIBITION

Kingston Arts Centre

Friday 23 June, 5pm–9pm

An exhibition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Opening evening. Meet the artists and enjoy a Blak Market with First Nations stallholders – arts, crafts, cultural objects and more. A yidaki performance and traditional Welcome to Country.

No bookings required.

Exhibition: Saturday 24 June to Saturday 26 August

FOOST: FIRST NATIONS NATIVE INGREDIENTS SESSION

Clarinda Library and Aspendale Gardens

Community Centre

Wednesday 5 July

Bookings open Thursday 8 June. Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/naidoc-week

VOICING OUR RESPECT

TAYLAH EID WEAVING WORKSHOPS

Cheltenham and Parkdale Libraries

Thursday 6 July

For details visit kingston.vic.gov.au/naidoc-week

ABORIGINAL CULTURE BY DIDGERIDOO AUSTRALIA

Chelsea and Westall Libraries

Monday 26 June

• Chelsea 11am–12pm

• Westall 2pm–3pm

Bookings open Thursday 8 June

kingston.vic.gov.au/naidoc-week

FIRST NATIONS STORYTIMES

All Kingston library branches

Details at kingston.vic.gov.au/naidoc-week

FIRST NATIONS BOOK DISPLAYS

All library branches for all of NAIDOC Week.

Council has shown its deep commitment to walk together with Australia’s First Nations peoples by endorsing the Uluru Statement from the Heart. We also support the Mayors for the Voice to Parliament Public Statement and have committed to providing opportunities to raise awareness about the upcoming referendum. To find out more, join our The Voice and Truth Telling Forum on Saturday 15 July. Details: kingston.vic.gov.au/aboriginal-community

Thanks for your help

Kingston’s Coastal and Marine Management Plan has been endorsed by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action!

Protecting our coastal environment

The vegetated sand dunes along our beaches and the trees along our foreshore enhance the beauty of our coast.

They are also home to many plants and animals, offer air and water filtration, provide shade and form an important ‘biodiversity buffer’ between our urban and marine environments.

Dunes are eroding along much of our coastline and some trees have been damaged or killed by vandals. We are working to protect our coastal flora and are urging the community to help.

It’s important we use designated paths to prevent damage to the vegetation and, as a community, condemn tree vandalism.

We’ve installed new signs in at-risk locations and are increasing monitoring of these areas.

You can help by spreading the ‘stay off’ message to save our sand dunes and report tree vandalism to protect our precious environment.

If your littlies love to play on the dunes and adventure along our foreshore paths, this a great chance to educate them on the importance of enjoying our natural environment respectfully, so it can remain intact for generations to come.

Thanks to everyone in our community who shared input and feedback to help bring this plan to life. It sets the vision, objectives and actions for managing Kingston’s beautiful coastal and marine areas, and will help us to protect and enhance them, so we can continue to enjoy them for years to come. Read the plan at:

You can also take positive action by volunteering at our working bees, where you can help protect the environment, meet new people and make a positive impact in your community. Find one near you at kingston.vic.gov.au/working-bees

#118

Weeding out invaders

We will target weeds across 60 hectares of bushland and foreshore reserves, with sites including Mordialloc Creek, Rowan Woodland, Elder Street South and the Bonbeach and Carrum foreshore.

Read more and find out how you can combat weeds at:

Conservation Officer Katelyn from our foreshore crew inspects the beautiful Banksia Woodland at Carrum.

Council’s conservation officers will be working alongside rangers from the Bunurong Land Council to protect Kingston’s valuable native flora and fauna from invasive weeds.

Delivering services responsibly

First-class infrastructure, top-quality facilities, highly utilised community services and ongoing financial responsibility are the features of our 2023-24 Draft Budget.

Community consultation has played a vital role in its development, with more than 160 community submissions to our new year-round Talking Kingston consultation. The budget balances the needs of our entire community and is focussed on building a stronger, healthier, and more connected Kingston. Among the services to ensure this are at-home care for the elderly and people with disabilities, delivered meals programs, childhood immunisations, maternal and child health support, senior citizen centres and much more.

We will also continue to invest in local kindergartens, libraries, Waves Leisure Centre services, sporting facilities and more.

We are also continuing our investment in a more sustainable Kingston with urban cooling projects, planting 4,500 trees, environmental efficiency upgrades and new solar initiatives.

The Draft Budget, to be considered at the June 26 Council Meeting, outlines a $53 million capital works spend that includes:

• $7.6 million for local roads

• $4.8 million to progress the deliver of Dingley Village Stage 2 intergenerational community hub

Planning for the future

We’ve been working closely with our community on new residential planning rules.

An independent Planning Panel has considered your submissions on our proposed new controls (Amendment C203).

The amendment, including the Panel report, will likely be considered at the June Council Meeting. If adopted, it will go to the Minister for Planning for the final decision.

An independent panel has also considered community feedback on modernising planning controls at Endeavour Cove

The Panel was generally supportive of Amendment C205, subject to some recommendations to further improve the planning controls.

The Panel’s report is now available to read. Visit yourkingstonyoursay. com.au/c203 and /c205

Why do we need new zones?

The Victorian Government estimates Melbourne will grow to 7.9 million people by 2051 and has set out how councils will take their fair share of the growth. We want to ensure growth in Kingston is around key activity centres, close to public transport, shops and services to allow us to protect the amenity of our quieter streets.

• $4.4 million to construct the new pavilion at Regents Park in Aspendale

• $4.0 million to progress

Kingston’s new district-level Aquatic and Leisure Centre

• $2.5 million for flood mitigation.

Keep talking

Among the key issues raised via Talking Kingston so far are shopping strip revitalisations, foreshore enhancements, playground and open space improvements and climate action and we are investing in all of these important issues.

If you have a great idea to help create a strong Kingston, to be considered for future budgets visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au

Vicki drops food off to Anne, a happy recipient of our meals delivery program.

Creating a stronger Kingston

Our Council Vision sets out a clear picture of the kind of future our community wants for our city.

The Council Plan is our commitment to work towards achieving that vision and our six Strategic Objectives of being Healthy and Inclusive, Liveable, Prosperous, Safe, Well Governed and Sustainable. Have a look at what your rates have been funding.

21,239 pets registered.

240,00+ hours of Family Day Care.

Upgrading sporting pavilions

to ensure facilities are accessible for all.

We adopted a new Social and Affordable Housing Strategy.

Introduced ‘on call’ hard waste to boost flexibility and reduce dumped rubbish.

We joined 85 Councils across Australia to declare a Climate and Ecological Emergency and developed a Climate and Ecological Emergency Response Plan.

173 items of street furniture installed via our Love Local initiative which helps make Kingston a wonderful place to shop, stay, play and love.

enhanced with a new sculpture, Raindrops & Sunbeams by artist Deb

6,989m2 of local roads reconstructed, 600km+ maintained and street sweeping occurs every five weeks.

$3.7m on drainage improvement to reduce flooding, with more underway on the $6 million Edithvale Flood Management Project.

Aspendale Gardens Sports Ground

improved with pavilion, sports fields, paths and lighting to ensure quality safe spaces for our community.

Facilities at Le Page Park and Chelsea Recreation Reserve revamped.

Hazel Pierce Reserve in Mordialloc

McNaughton.

More than $1 million in Annual Grants, for example, to wonderful not-for-profit Brainwave Bikes.

Chadwick Reserve

upgraded with a larger, modern pavilion, new surfaces on the ovals and a new all-ages playground.

New nature strip guidelines

adopted to provide greater guidance.

local people to employment or education opportunities.

Greenhouse emissions for council buildings reduced and 55 per cent of green waste and recyclables diverted from landfill.

Studio spaces

for artists and art classes.

The hugely popular Artz Blitz competition.

Arts Grants

for artists, art groups, makers, creative businesses.

Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place

is a safe place for First Nations people to get together and develop ideas, enhance cultural identity, social inclusion and improve health and wellbeing.

CEO roundtables and the Small Business Bus support local businesses and a $12m Community Support Package helped alleviate economic impacts of COVID -19 for vulnerable residents, community groups and local businesses.

QR codes on all public bins for improved collection.

22,000 indigenous plants in the ground.

5,000 free plants to the community.

Partnered with Brotherhood of St Laurence and Wellsprings for Women through the Jobs Victoria Advocate Program, linking

Creating a stronger Kingston

Mentone’s Dolamore Reserve

renewed including a new all-weather running track used by Mentone Athletic Club.

204,261 hours of community care.

Our eight libraries offer study spaces, LOTE resources, computers, recording studios, 3D printers, free Wi-Fi and so much more. A home delivery service is also on offer.

Assistance to 191 people homeless or at risk.

Kingston’s first Gender

Equality Action Plan

has been published with 18 of 72 committed actions already completed.

Clear position put to the Victorian Government on the SRL design at Cheltenham and planned Stabling Yard in Heatherton. Heritage controls requested for Highett station.

Kindergarten service and before and after school care.

100% of Kingston’s streetlights run on green energy.

Roy Dore Reserve

has six tennis and two netball courts and a modern new tennis pavilion will be added as part of a $12.5m Carrum Sports centre precinct development.

More than 7,600 street and park trees planted.

116 playgrounds across Kingston for the enjoyment of various age groups.

A range of community consultation opportunities

• Open Space Strategy

• New Aquatic Centre

• Youth Strategy

• Mentone/Parkdale LXRP Urban Design Framework

• streetscape improvements

• park masterplans.

More than $57 million in grants from the Victorian and Australian Governments to help fund local projects and services.

Council’s Positive Ageing portfolio features policies, services and structures that support people aged 55+.

Put Kingston First campaign for the ‘22 Federal and State elections, with $54 million committed to local projects.

Queer in Kingston

–a safe, inclusive, confidential weekly support group for young people aged 12 to 17.

191 road safety sessions and delivered safe driver programs at three community centres.

Our Strategic Objectives explained

Masterplan for Namatjira

Park

to help guide the long-term planning for the site.

LIVEABLE

Our city will be a vibrant, enjoyable, and easy place to live.

SUSTAINABLE

We prioritise our environment and reduce our impact on the earth.

PROSPEROUS

We will embrace the concept of a 20-minute neighbourhood, support the ongoing process of decentralisation and support people to live and work locally.

HEALTHY AND INCLUSIVE

We are progressive, inclusive and prioritise the wellbeing of all members of our community.

SAFE

Our community will feel safe, and be safe, in all aspects of their lives.

WELLGOVERNED

Council will be collaborative, accountable, transparent, responsive, well-informed and efficient.

Blazing a trail

Kingston has a strong history working with our community via representative panels on key decision-making:

• Customer Service Charter

2016

• representative Ward Committees (2019–2020)

• Library Community Panel (2019)

• Your Kingston Your Future Panel to shape our Community Vision (2020)

• Aquatic and Leisure Centre Community Reference Group to help develop the new centre.

#20

Community Consultations

Collaborating with our community

Thanks to the 600+ residents who signed up to represent Kingston on our 220-member online Representative Community Panel (RCP) and 45-member in-person Collaborative Engagement Group (CEG).

The 45-member group met for the first time in April, with participants saying they felt “curious”, “intrigued” and “optimistic” about taking part. They will meet up to six times a year over the next two years to discuss and share their feedback on complex local issues and key strategic plans.

Everyone on the large online panel will provide us with key insights about the needs of and issues impacting residents and businesses. Independent consultants recruited the panel to ensure a group as representative as possible of Kingston – considering information such as age, cultural heritage, education, business ownership and more.

Talking business

We recently held a networking event with a range of businesses and property owners in Mordialloc’s Governor Road industrial precinct.

We listened to the needs of the existing businesses while discussing ideas about attracting new businesses.

There is potential for future investment, cultural tourism, and economic growth for small businesses in the area.

The day was highly productive with everyone listening to each other and sharing ideas and opinions on the area.

There are many ways to get involved in community consultations. To receive updates and give feedback on major projects across Kingston visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ register

Hear directly from the 45-member panel group members.

We are always seeking community input on our plans, projects and services. Stay across the issues and offer your feedback on yourkingstonyoursay.com.au

Our Collaborative Engagement Group gets down to work.

LIVEABLE

From tired to terrific

Children in Oakleigh South are eagerly awaiting an exciting new playground at Mavis Hutter Reserve.

The old playground is gone and a new modern play space will take its place. Highlights of the design include play equipment for children of a broad range of ages, a triple swing set and spring rocker, an accessible basket swing, a hut with activity panels, musical play instruments, a ground spinner and climbing nets. For all the family there’ll be park furniture, a picnic shelter, picnic tables and a BBQ.

City of WardsKingston !

We’re planning for the future of play in Kingston!

We have been collaborating with you to create play spaces that are welcoming and inclusive for everyone to enjoy – young people, older people, families, carers and people of all abilities.

We have been asking how, what, where, when and why you play. There are a few days left to give your feedback if you haven’t yet. Go to yourkingstonyoursay. com.au/play-your-way

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

MAYOR CR HADI SAAB

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

It has been a busy, challenging and extremely rewarding few months.

Our 2023-24 draft budget sets us up to continue delivering for our community while also maintaining our history of fiscal responsibility. Our Community Vision strives for resilience, inclusivity, and diversity and aims to build the most liveable and sustainable city in Victoria. This budget will help us make the vision reality. The budget, which projects a $1.2 million surplus, outlines a $53 million capital works spend, including for the North Cheltenham Early Years Centre and GR Bricker Reserve pavilion. This draft budget was informed by more than 160 community submissions to our new year-round Talking Kingston consultation.

A lot of you have been asking about it and I am glad to say we are nearing completion of the shared user path connecting to the Dingley bypass on Bourke Road between Clarinda Rd and Old Dandy Rd.

This includes new asphalt, a stormwater drainage system, a new kerb, two new bus stops, traffic islands, vehicle pram crossings as well as undertaking line marking works. Since I last wrote, I have been appointed to Victoria’s Local Government Advisory Panel alongside 12 other mayors.

It is a great honour and is a wonderful opportunity for me to advocate strongly for not only for our community, but for local councils as a whole.

It’s essential that all levels of government work collaboratively to find solutions for issues impacting our communities, our state and our nation.

CR STEVE STAIKOS

0447 896 643

steve.staikos@kingston.vic.gov.au

Mavis Hutter Reserve, South Oakleigh

I am happy to report the Mavis Hutter Reserve update is underway.

The refresh includes a new accessible play area with items such as a basket swing, cubby, musical play instruments, climbing nets, new park furniture picnic shelter, picnic tables and BBQ. New garden beds and shade trees are also planned. I’m looking forward to seeing these wonderful additions to this popular neighbourhood playground. The northern boundary fence has now been moved to the correct title line between Council and private land.

Elder Street South Reserve, Clarinda

Just over a kilometre away, the creation of a beautiful park from the former landfill site at Elder Street South is getting closer. Stage 2 work has begun on Elder Street South Reserve to build play areas, a fitness station, recreational facilities, walking/cycling tracks, landscaped gardens, multi-functional sports court, picnic areas and more. Landfill capping, drainage, path laying, landscaping and fencing works have been done and we have now budgeted $946,947.80 for 2023/24 for work at the site and a further $15,000 for more remediation.

This is exciting. Completion of this stunning park will see another closed landfill site become one more link in our long-awaited ‘Chain of Parks.’

Clarinda Library Façade

Have you seen the wonderful green façade at Clarinda Library? Thermal monitoring identified this as a hot spot and one that would benefit from a cooling intervention. Work involved removing paving, adding garden beds and guide wires for the plants to grow up the building façade, as well as repositioning the seats and bike racks.

Mayor Cr Hadi Saab (right) and Councillor Steve Staikos enjoy a chat at Mavis Hutter Reserve.

CR TRACEY DAVIES

0438 108 611

tracey.davies@kingston.vic.gov.au

Our beautiful Kingston Heath Reserve is undergoing replenishment.

An astonishing 10,000 plants is being added to the north western edge.

The huge planting session was due early June so, weather permitting, that stretch of reserve is now full of native flora that will attract birds and offer shelter to wildlife. The wonderful thing about this project is the community involvement. Council’s horticultural team is being assisted by many enthusiastic volunteers from ‘Friends of Kingston Heath Reserve’ and other groups and reserve neighbours.

A big shout out to all of you for your hard work. Not only does your help mean 10,000 plants could go into the ground in one day but it also underpins the purpose of our open spaces as community spaces. Aviation industry trailblazer Adrianne Fleming OAM has won the 2023 Kingston Woman of the Year award. The event was attended by hundreds of people all keen to celebrate 38 amazing women who were nominated.

Adrianne’s win reflects her incredible contributions to our community.

Adrianne is Head of Operations and Chief Flying Instructor at Tristar Aviation at Moorabbin Airport. Her expertise and commitment to aviation saw her appointed to the Australian Government’s Future of Aviation Reference Panel

Adrianne is also an extensive contributor to business and community-building organisations including the Moorabbin Airport Chamber of Commerce.

It is fantastic to have her as our Woman of the Year. A well-deserved award, Adrianne. Congratulations.

Expanding our urban forest

Kingston Heath Reserve in Heatherton is undergoing a wonderful rejuvenation –with community help.

About 10,000 plants are being added to the reserve with the native flora not only adding lush new beauty to the north-western end but also attracting and sheltering wildlife along with bees and beneficial insects.

A community planting day will make light work of the huge job with hardworking volunteers assisting our horticultural team to remove dead, dying, or

CR TAMSIN BEARSLEY

0430 170 210

tamsin.bearsley@kingston.vic.gov.au

I am proud to give a shout out to one of our long serving crossing supervisors Charles Stewart.

Charles was at the Laura Street crossing outside Aspendale Primary School when t wo young girls ran across the road.

An approaching vehicle didn’t immediately slow and Charles put himself between the car and the two children.

The little girls’ mum has told Council she is forever grateful to Charles for his quick and selfless act.

Well done Charles!

And the story is reminder to us all to slow down and take extra care around schools. One of my key drivers is a desire to improve community consultation.

Our new 220-member Representative Community Panel is up and running. It will provide us with key feedback about the issues and needs impacting residents and businesses.

It will be wonderful to watch the progress of this innovative panel.

If you’re interested, there are other ways of contributing your views on issues, too. Jump on our Your Kingston Your Say webpage ( yourkingstonyoursay.com.au) to have a look at our key projects.

Kingston Council has partnered with APR Plastics to deliver a temporary soft plastics recycling option for residents until the program is back in supermarkets.

Bins have been filling fast since we started the program, so well done to all of you who are keen to recycle rather than dump in landfill. There are five drop off points, including at Aspendale Community Centre.

CR TIM COCHRANE

0437 843 837

tim.cochrane@kingston.vic.gov.au

It’s great to report the business case for our new Aquatic and Leisure Centre is now complete.

To keep our emissions down, the centre will be fully electric, and it will also be an accessible place for all in our community. This wonderful addition to Mordialloc will include four pools, a gym, sauna and steam room and a cafe.

It is exciting to watch its progression, and the eager feedback from our community and the community reference group has been a key part of it all.

I have written before about my vision for reinvigorating Mordialloc’s Governor Road industrial precinct.

I am delighted to say we recently held a productive ideas-sharing event with a range of stakeholders in the area. We want to aid the wonderful existing businesses while attracting exciting and interesting new businesses.

There is potential for future investment, cultural tourism, and economic growth for small businesses – and the conversation and ideas-building has started. And a little more good news, work is well underway on the redevelopment of the play space at Peter Scullin Reserve.

A shout out to Jess Mckenna who has played an integral part in the growth and development of the Mordy Flyers Basketball Club. Jess won the Excelling in Art and Sport category at our recent Kingston Women of the Year awards.

Congratulations, Jess.

compromised vegetation and plant suitable species for the area. The new plants will also form a vegetated barrier between the neighbouring residential area and the reserve.

Our urban forest helps to provide cool streets, shaded walkways,

comfortable homes, clean air and habitat for biodiversity. It benefits the whole community and it’s important we protect and expand it.

Read more at yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ urbanforest

Friends of Kingston Heath Reserve members Helen Fischer, Judi Aldridge and Ruth Gillespie and Councillors Tamsin Bearsley (in blue), Tracey Davies and Tim Cochrane get the planting started.

Keeping Kingston active

We are progressive and inclusive and prioritise the wellbeing of all members of our community.

Creating a strong, healthy and connected community is vital to achieving our Community Vision. Our Public Health and Wellbeing Plan provides direction for Kingston to achieve positive health outcomes for our diverse community and guides delivery of our health and wellbeing services.

We have allocated $400,000 in the draft 2023/24 budget for an asset replacement program at Waves Leisure Centre.

The range of pool, gym, and wide variety of classes at Waves mean there’s something for everyone to

help with their health and fitness goals. From our popular Learn to Swim program right through to our Active Seniors fitness classes we offer a friendly and communitycentric service.

Find out more at kingstonactive.com.au

CR CHRIS HILL

0437 913 851

chris.hill@kingston.vic.gov.au

Mentone Life Saving Club has begun its return to the club and Stage 2 of the $14.5 million redevelopment is underway. This includes significant upgrades to the existing Naples Road stormwater drainage system, replacing the infrastructure pipework, and increasing capacity to cope with future demand.

The upgrade to the ageing drainage system will ensure water flowing from the new pipe is much cleaner, with litter and fine pollutants to be captured by a Gross Pollutant Trap. Construction on the playground is due to start later this year, and will take approximately 16 weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Excitingly also, Indigenous artists Aunty Kim Wandin and Amanda Wright have been chosen to collaborate and deliver a largescale public art piece at the site.

The sculpture, titled Rakali Wilam is due to be installed later this year.

In other news, we were very pleased to recently announce you can now recycle soft plastics again in Kingston. We have partnered with APR Plastics following the collapse of the REDcycle program.

Your soft plastics can be handed over at five drop-off points across Kingston, including here in my ward at the Council offices 1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham.

The other drop off spots are at Waves Leisure Centre, Clarinda, Patterson Lakes and Aspendale Gardens Community Centres. Finally, if you’re looking for indoor entertainment as winter sets in, there’s plenty happening at Parkdale Library. Check it out.

And why not also visit our beloved Shirley Burke Theatre.

Go to kingstonarts.com.au for more information.

CR JENNA DAVEY-BURNS

0437 859 749

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

It has been a busy few months both in Council and out meeting and talking with the community, which I love to do.

From sports clubs to women’s groups, rotary meetings to mentoring groups and more, it’s important for me to see what remarkable things are being done and how Council can support that.

You may know by now I sit on Council’s Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee and have a passion for public art.

I recently attended the celebration of the completion of artist Carla Gottgens’ joyful work on Follett Road in Cheltenham. This is an incredible community-driven project in collaboration with traders, community members and local primary school students. Our little shopping strips are important.

We have recently sought feedback on public art from the community. That, alongside input from our expert advisory committee volunteers, will help enliven our public spaces. I am also on the Access and Equity Advisory Committee which is undergoing a special recruitment from LGBTIQA+ community members. It’s important to have that voice and perspective in the advice we give to Council.

Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/committees-andnetworks if you’re interested.

A big shout out to all of Kingston’s volunteers. As a volunteer, I know the joy of giving back and as a councillor I know the incredible backup Council receives from the thousands of people who donate their time and expertise.

Last month we held our annual celebration of volunteers and announced our Community Awards winners.

I am so proud and thankful of all nominees and big congrats to the Cheltenham Community Centre.

CR GEORGE HUA 0429 171 449

george.hua@kingston.vic.gov.au

We have recently budgeted $4.8 million to progress the delivery of an intergenerational community hub in Dingley Village.

The hub – with Early Years spaces and a community meeting place – will be part of Stage 2 of the Dingley Community precinct development.

We have been working with stakeholders to develop a concept plan to enhance the village feel, liveability and sense of community pride of Dingley Village. This revamp is part of a broader precinct renewal which includes the redevelopment of the Souter Pavilion and pathways to connect different elements at the reserve. Local sporting groups, Dingley Cricket Club and the Dingley Football and Netball Club will soon be able to benefit from the modern new building.

Council’s conservation officers will be working alongside rangers from the Bunurong Land Council to protect Kingston’s valuable native flora and fauna from invasive weed incursions.

The Peri-Urban Weed Management Program will target weeds across 60 hectares of bushland and foreshore reserves, including at Rowan Woodland.

The reserve is a significant 3.9-hectare conservation area and a rare example of remnant indigenous bushland.

It is great to see this type of protection work being done. As well as the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, we are working with Seeds Bushland Management, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Melbourne Water and Kingston Environmental Friends Network on this vital project.

#49 Fitness Classes

Deputy Mayor Cr Chris Hill (right) and Cr Jenna Davey-Burns get a run down from trainer Alenka at Waves.

CR CAMERON HOWE

0429 498 028

cameron.howe@kingston.vic.gov.au

Hi everyone, I have included below what is happening in our backyard for Patterson Lakes, Carrum and Bonbeach residents based on the advice at print.

Happening: Carrum SLSC extension, Roy Dore Reserve tennis clubhouse, Bonbeach highway strip upgrade (first stage), Patterson Lakes Tennis Club minor refurbishment, Bonbeach Reserve civil drainage and multipurpose cricket net bay improvements.

Upcoming in 2023: Patterson Lakes plaza boardwalk, reconstruction of Church Road and the Kananook Creek viewing platform, subject to litter trap relocation by Melbourne Water.

Pipeline for 2024: Beauty Spot (Carrum) renovation, Patterson River sculpture trail (first sculpture), northern Carrum boardwalk extension plus broadly more road, foreshore and park upgrades.

Pursuing (and doing my best to advocate for): Bonbeach Reserve east facility improvements for YCW affiliates and St Brigid’s/St Louis Cricket Club, where a renovation and extension of the current YCW pavilion is being reviewed, without state support for a new pavilion and considering budget constraints.

Just for fun: visit our Bonbeach Farmers Market on Sunday, June 11 and Friday, June 23 at 5pm our annual Carrum Winter Swim.

Facebook: Cameron Howe

Instagram: @camhowe

CR GEORGINA OXLEY

0429 222 504

georgina.oxley@kingston.vic.gov.au

The recent Australian Government announcement of an extension on the single-parent payment until the youngest child is 14 years old, was great news.

In 2019 Council advocated for the restoration of the payment to parents with children over 8 years.

In March I urged Council to write to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Treasurer and Local Federal MPs with an updated letter on the issue.

It is an issue I have been passionate about. Statistics show that across Australia, four out of five single parents supporting a dependant are women.

Kingston has increased from 10.3 per cent in 2016 to 10.5 per cent in 2021.

Flooding may not impinge on all of our lives but for those impacted by it, the effects are destructive and upsetting.

We are working to reduce the impacts of flooding to homes in low lying areas including in Chelsea.

A two-stage drainage improvement project is underway in Sherwood Avenue and Bicentennial Park.

I’m also happy to report a major upgrade is on the way for the Bicentennial Park Netball Complex in Chelsea.

There are more than 100 teams in the Chelsea and District Netball Association. The dedicated and talented coaches, committee members and volunteers help make the CDNA such a success and I am pleased we are assisting them.

We will also seek support from other levels of government for the $3 million program.

Reducing flood impact

In Edithvale, a $6 million Northern Edithvale Flood Management Project is underway, with preparations being made for drainage works along Kinross Avenue. We built a new stormwater drainage system in Kinross and Keith Avenues and are finalising work on Montrose Avenue. This was complemented by road reconstruction, new concrete kerbs, footpaths, pram crossings, vehicle crossings and

an asphalt pavement. A larger drain and stormwater pits are now being installed, to help reduce stormwater build-up between 24 Langrigg Avenue and Clydebank Road in Edithvale. We’re also working to reduce reduce the impact of flooding in

CR DAVID EDEN 0422 557 917

david.eden @kingston.vic.gov.au

It was good to have the Premier Daniel Andrews visit Regents Park recently to hear about progress on the transformation of the sporting precinct.

Some of the many sporting clubs who will benefit from the work also came along to see what is being done.

Through a funding partnership with the Victorian Government, we are building a new pavilion that will be shared by local clubs including the Edithvale Aspendale Football Netball Club, Aspendale Cricket Club, Edithvale Aspendale Junior Football Club, Edithvale Aspendale Netball Club, Aspendale Arrows Netball Club.

The latest works will add to the upgraded netball courts, improved tennis courts, new sports lighting, upgraded playground and new storage shed that have already been delivered.

I am happy to report we allocated $4.4 million in our recent Budget to progress the new pavilion.

At Council we aim to ensure our policies care for and protect our natural environment. Of course, that task takes a whole of community approach and there are so many individuals and groups out there working hard on that front.

When I’m walking on the weekends, I often see the Beach Patrols out early cleaning our beautiful beaches.

We have six patrols in Kingston who do an amazing job removing litter, plastics, cigarette butts and more.

At a recent clean up Chelsea Beach Patrol removed 9.4 kilos of rubbish on a Saturday morning.

A huge thank you to everyone who helps keep Kingston clean and our environment healthy.

Chelsea – with Stage One of a two-stage drainage improvement project in Sherwood Avenue and Bicentennial Park.

Read more about these works at kingston.vic.gov.au/council/ projects-and-works

Every year Council invests millions of dollars in improving drainage conditions.

Councillors Georgina Oxley and David Eden have a look at the flood mitigation work on Langrigg Avenue in Edithvale.

Drainage #28

BOOSTING HEALTHY CHOICES

With help from the Vic Kids Eat Well movement, healthy eating is top of the menu for more than 540 children regularly attending our five Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) services. The changes were made at the services at St Joseph’s, Chelsea, Southmoor, St Patrick’s and Le Page Primary Schools. The children at the services are enjoying cultural cooking experiences and learning about healthy foods and where food comes from.

Play your way

We’re planning for the future of play in Kingston and want to know all about how, what, when, where and why you play.

Your feedback will help us create play spaces that are welcoming and inclusive for everyone to enjoy –young people, older people, families, carers and people of all abilities.

Have your say and play your way today! Visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/ play-your-way

Love working with children and want flexible hours, above award wages and fun colleagues?

We’re looking for passionate educators to join our amazing Before and After School and School Holiday Program team. Details on this and many great City of Kingston careers are at kingston.vic.gov.au/council/ jobs-in-kingston

It’s time for kindergarten registration

Sessional kindergarten registrations for 2024 are open and applying for local kindergartens is simple and easy, through our central registration program.

Our team is working hard to ensure most families get their first preference for where they want their child to go to kindergarten (service) and their preferred time slots (group).

Our data shows 96.11 per cent of families registering last year for 2023 kindergarten places received their first service preference and

92.07 per cent their first group preference.

Submit your registration for 2024 kindergarten by 30 June to be included in the first allocation round.

Find out more and book your place now!

Kindergartens #57

WINTER 2023 What’s On

JUNE

MONDAY 5 JUNE GARDENING IN SMALL SPACES

10.30am–12pm

Parkdale Library

Learn how to make the most of your balcony, patio or courtyard. Learn design principles, feature plants, colour combinations and so much more with Director of Blue Bee Garden Design, Katie Roberts-Plamer.

Bookings required. Phone 1300 135 668.

JULY

WEDNESDAY 7 JUNE

INTRODUCTION TO 3D PRINTING

6.30pm–7.30pm

Chelsea library

This introductory class will show you the basics of 3D printing. Participants will receive a booking for three free hours of printing on the library 3D printer.

Suitable for all ages. No bookings required.

TUESDAY 20 JUNE

GROW YOUR OWN FOOD

6.30pm–7.30pm

Chelsea library

Avid gardener, Tina, will teach you about space selection, preparation, organic plant care and how to get from seed to beautiful crop.

Bookings required. Go to library.kingston. vic.gov.au

TUESDAY 4 JULY

YOU ARE A DOUGHNUT

10am and 1pm I Cost: $20 Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkdale

From the creators of the multi award-winning The Alphabet of Awesome Science comes a brand new biological musical comedy adventure You Are a Doughnu t – that explores the ins and outs of the human digestive system.

Book at kingstonarts.com.au

SATURDAY, 22 JULY

ROSE PRUNING DEMONSTRATIONS

11am and 1.30pm

Keith Styles Reserve, Mentone

Join the Rose Society of Victoria to learn the best pruning techniques Free event, please bring own secateurs.

MONDAYS

MOVIEHOUSE

10.30am I Cost: $24 annual membership Kingston Arts Centre, Moorabbin

Sit back in our intimate blackbox theatre, relax and enjoy a journey through classic and contemporary film. Visit kingstonarts.com.au

THURSDAYS

YOGA

7pm–7.45pm I Cost: $5 Westall Community Hub

Develop strength, improve flexibility, and increase balance in one of our relaxing Yoga classes. BYO mat and water bottle.

WEDNESDAY 12 JULY AND WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST

JAZZ-A-OKE

7.30pm

Kingston Arts Centre, Moorabbin

Sit back and enjoy some local jazz and swing music with MoJO, or take the opportunity to get up and sing karaoke backed by a big band. You are the star!

Tickets available at the door or book at kingstonarts.com.au

SATURDAY 29 JULY

YARRABAH COMMUNITY MARKET

9am–2pm 23 Mill Street, Aspendale

Bringing together Yarrabah School students, staff, families and the community with food trucks, BBQ and stalls.

ONGOING

1ST, 3RD & 5TH TUESDAYS OF MONTH

ARTISTS GROUP

1pm–3pm I Cost: $2 Patterson Lakes Community Centre

Suited to all skill levels to inspire, explore, gain skills and learn from each other. Bring your own art projects, materials and tools to join us for fun with likeminded people.

FRIDAYS

ZUMBA

10am–11am

Sundowner Community Centre

Come and enjoy the fun of a total body Zumba® workout! Set the rhythm of Latin and international beats, this interval style dance fitness session offers a mix of low intensity and high intensity moves making it ideal for all fitness levels.