Maroondah in Focus (March - May 2019)

Maroondah in focus Your community newsletter March to May 2019

View Maroondah in focus online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/focus

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Deserving Maroondah citizens honoured

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Your feedback is important - have Your Say!

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Spiegeltent returns in April

Mayor’s message Welcome to the March edition of Maroondah in Focus – our first edition for 2019.

I hope you have had a wonderful summer, whether enjoying the time with family and friends, attending some amazing events and venues in Maroondah, or having a well-deserved holiday break.

The year commenced with Maroondah’s Australia Day celebrations at Ringwood Lake Park. It was fantastic to see residents of all ages come together to celebrate what’s great about our wonderful country and community.

Mayor Rob Steane congratulates one of our many new citizens on Australia Day.

Council meetings are held monthly and community members are welcome to attend.

Monday 18 March Monday 8 April - Special Meeting for the draft Budget and Council Plan Monday 29 April Monday 20 May Meetings start at 7.30pm and are held in the Council Chamber, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood.

Council meetings are streamed live via our website and past meetings can be accessed via an online archive.

To find out more, visit Council’s website.

Rates payment reminder Ratepayers who have chosen to pay their annual rates over four instalments are reminded that the final payment is due by Friday 31 May 2019.

Conveniently, there are a range of methods available to make payment: online via credit card; BPAY; by phone or mail; direct debit (over nine instalments); and in person at any Australia Post outlet or any Council service centre.

If you are having trouble meeting your rate payment, please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33 to discuss options.

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Did you know?

You can register to receive your rates notice by email.

To register, visit Council’s website.

It was an honour to present the Maroondah Australia Day Awards to some outstanding citizens, all of whom are motivated by helping others. It was also a great pleasure to witness 60 Maroondah residents taking the final step in their journey to becoming Australian citizens. These ceremonies serve as a reminder of how lucky we all are to live in this community.

The fun continued in February when we held the first of our Celebrate Maroondah events, Jazz in the Park at Ringwood Lake Park. Many also turned out earlier this month for our Family Fun Day Out at Glen Park, which had everything from bubble soccer to Slip ‘n’ Slide. These free events also provided the opportunity to meet and chat to your local Councillors. Any occasion that provides a chance for families to come

together and for Councillors to get to know residents a bit better is always worthwhile. Don’t miss our free movie night at Barngeong Reserve on Saturday 30 March.

This year is set to be a big one for our City, with some exciting major projects to be completed, including the HE Parker multi-sports complex in Heathmont; our new Croydon Town Square; and the final design for the $10 million Karralyka redevelopment.

In other exciting news, the Federal Government has announced $30 million for new carparking at both Ringwood and Croydon station precincts. This is great news for commuters, local businesses and residents; while also easing parking congestion on local streets.

Council is also in the process of drafting its 2019/20 Budget and delivering on the third year of our 2017-2021 Council Plan.

These vital documents guide the delivery of the many projects and services provided by Council. The proposed documents will be presented to Council in the coming months before being placed out for community consultation.

Please keep an eye out for further information across a range of communication channels.

What an exciting year we have ahead of us.

Cr Rob Steane

Pet registration renewals due in April Maroondah pet owners are reminded that animal registration renewal notices will arrive in the mail during March, and are due by Wednesday 10 April If Christmas has seen the arrival of a new pet, don’t forget that you need to have them microchipped and registered.

There are many payment options available, and owners registering their pet for the first time can do so online, or in person at one of Council’s service centres.

If they become damaged or lost, replacement tags are available from Council free of charge.

For more information, call Council’s Local Laws team on 1300 88 22 33 or visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

Registration is an important part of responsible pet ownership and helps to keep track of your pet. All dogs and cats must be registered by the age of three months, as well as microchipped.

Microchipping provides an extra level of protection should your pet’s collar become detached, and greatly improves the chances of your pet being returned to you if they become lost.

It is also a requirement that your pet wears its Council-issued registration tag at all times. The tags are lifelong and are therefore not replaced when you renew your registration.

Fast facts If you register your pet at three months of age, you will be charged the discounted desexed rate.

But you will need to provide evidence of desexing once your pet is six months old.

Front page: Our free Celebrate Maroondah community events kicked off on 15 February with a fun-filled and musical evening of Jazz in the Park at Ringwood Lake Park.

Deserving Maroondah citizens honoured Maroondah residents of all ages and backgrounds gathered at Ringwood Lake Park on 26 January to join in celebrating our great city and nation as part of Australia Day celebrations.

Maroondah celebrated Australia Day by officially welcoming our newest Australian citizens and awarding some of our most outstanding community members. Sixty Maroondah residents publicly pledged their loyalty to Australia, as the final step in obtaining their Australian citizenship.

The day was also a chance to acknowledge some of our most deserving community members.

Whether it be inspiring others through their personal achievements or generously dedicating time to a community group, organisation, event or project; our Maroondah Australia Day Award recipients are what makes the City of Maroondah a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

Citizen of the Year was awarded to local sporting community stalwart, Ian Barnes.

Ian celebrates his 50th season at the Ringwood Football Club this year, having started out as a junior player in 1969 and going on to become the club’s head trainer and committee member, duties he continues to perform to this day. His name is synonymous with the Ringwood Football Club and the Ringwood Spiders All Abilities Club.

Russ Haines

Prateeti Sabhlok

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Prateeti Sabhlok for her significant contribution to female participation in sport. Prateeti has successfully established the first ever Adult Synchronised Swimming Session at Aquanation in Ringwood.

She is the co-founder of the Eastern Sirens Synchronised Swimming Club, through which the sessions are run, and is involved across all aspects of the sport, from competing and coaching to judging and participating at committee level. The club made its debut at the National Championships (for synchronisied swimming) in 2017 and continues to be represented at both state and national level competitions.

As one of only three synchronised swim clubs in Victoria – and the youngest club of its kind in the state – it currently has the highest membership in Victoria.

This is a testament to the hard work Prateeti has put into growing synchronised swimming in Maroondah.

Ian Barnes

The Community Event of the Year was awarded to the Ringwood and District Heritage Open Day, represented by Russ Haines.

The Ringwood & District Historical Society held the open day in October last year to celebrate the history and heritage of Ringwood, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Society.

The open day included hundreds of items and stories on display, making it one of the largest historical moveable museums in the area.

We congratulate our Maroondah Australia Day Award recipients and all our nominees. It is thanks to them that we have such a strong sense of community spirit.

Visit our website for more information on the 2020 Maroondah Australia Day Awards.

Community groups invited to apply for funding grants Not-for-profit groups in Maroondah seeking funding to assist with delivering their programs, services and projects can apply for Council’s 2019/20 Community Grants Funding Program.

Each year, Council offers eligible community groups the opportunity to share in funding made available through its Community Grants Funding Program.

Hope City Mission’s food relief program is sowing seeds of hope thanks to a Council funding grant.

Need help writing your application?

All grant applications must be submitted via Council’s website. Applicants will be advised as to the outcome of their application in late June and funding will be assigned during mid July 2019.

Applications close on Monday 29 April at 4pm.

Attend a free grant writing workshop on Thursday 21 March, from 9.30 to 11am, at Council offices, Braeside Ave, Ringwood. A free grant writing workshop focusing on Arts & Cultural Grants will be held on Wednesday 27 March, from 5.30pm to 7pm, at Maroondah Federation Estate, 32 Greenwood Ave, Ringwood.

The grant application assessment criteria is available on Council’s website.

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Funds are granted to incorporated or auspiced, not-for-profit community groups with limited access to financial resources and that can demonstrate their service or program makes a positive contribution to the Maroondah community. This includes programs that will increase opportunities for community participation in social, arts and leisure activities; enhance community wellbeing; or a service demonstrating a community need within Maroondah.

Maroondah’s youth in the spotlight Victorian Youth Week is a celebration of young people, and the positive contributions they make.

The week gives young people the opportunity to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives, and create and enjoy activities and events.

Victorian Youth Week 2019 will run from Friday 5 April to Sunday 14 April.

Council works with young people to ensure their ideas and contributions are highlighted and celebrated within the broader community. To put Maroondah’s youth front and centre, Council is hosting two key events:

Maroondah Youth Awards These annual Awards recognise and celebrate the success and achievements of Maroondah’s young people aged between 10 and 25. Community members, schools and organisations have nominated young people for recognition in several award categories, and a presentation evening will be held on Tuesday 9 April at Karralyka.

Pure Talent Visual Arts Exhibition Celebrating its 5th year, this exhibition showcases the incredible talents of Maroondah’s young visual artists. The exhibition will be launched on Wednesday 3 April, with artwork on display during Youth Week, at Wyreena Community Arts Centre, Hull Road, Croydon.

To learn more about Council’s programs and activities for young people, visit www.maroondahyouth.com.au

Free toddler developmental tests Maroondah’s Maternal and Child Health Service coordinates and provides a suite of important services which focus on the health, development and wellbeing of children and parents in Maroondah.

The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) team offers families information, advice and personal support in caring for their children, including a breastfeeding support program, free information sessions on first foods for baby, settling workshops and more.

The service also conducts ‘key age and stage’ checks at various intervals, from newborn up to 3.5 years of age. These regular developmental assessments are a vital way of ensuring babies and toddlers are reaching their developmental milestones.

While the key age and stage visits occur regularly in the first 18 months,

it’s vital that parents remember to also bring their child to the later toddler sessions at two and 3.5 years of age, as these are times when some very important growth, speech and social development measures are looked at and discussed. During these visits, parents will also have the opportunity to discuss their child’s readiness for kindergarten.

Phone 9294 5777 to book an appointment at one of our centres.

For more information on Maroondah’s Maternal and Child Health Service, please contact the Service Support Officer on 9294 5586 or visit Council’s website.

New smoke-free laws bring breath of fresh air to town squares

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Shoppers, traders and visitors can now breathe easy when visiting Ringwood Town Square following a ban on smoking, which came into effect on 1 January 2019.

The ban follows extensive community consultation in late 2017 and early 2018, where overwhelming support was shown for Ringwood Town Square and the new Croydon Town Square to become designated smoke-free zones.

Council is committed to protecting the community from passive smoking by

expanding smoke-free areas in and around the City. Smoking is already banned at various locations, including around child care centres, playground areas, skate parks and sporting venues, as well as at all outdoor dining areas where food is served.

Council has the power to issue fines to anyone caught lighting up in smoke-free areas.

Council will continue to work with the community and traders to ensure people are aware of the smoking ban.

Download the ‘Maternal and Child Health App’ This free app for families offers trustworthy information and time-saving features, including reminders for upcoming MCH consultations and a library of information on popular health and development topics. You can download the app from the Victorian Government’s Education and Training website at www.education.vic.gov.au

Recognising Reconciliation Week Monday 27 May to Monday 3 June is Reconciliation Week. You are invited to join Maroondah’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to celebrate special activities acknowledging this important annual event.

Come along to Karralyka on Tuesday 28 May from 11am to 1pm and hear from local Indigenous elders, as well as moving performances, including by one of Australia’s great blues artists, Indigenous singer-songwriter Kutcha Edwards, together with special guests.

Artists impression.

Presented by Council in partnership with the Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, this annual event is an opportunity to acknowledge the traditional owners of the Maroondah land, learn more about Indigenous culture and heritage and find out how you can help support Reconciliation.

Find out more at www.artsinmaroondah.com.au Council is currently reviewing its Draft Reconciliation Action Plan 2018-2020, which seeks to reaffirm Council’s commitment to the important process of reconciliation and our desire to build strong partnerships with the local Indigenous community.

It will build on the current Reconciliation Policy Statement, which is available on Council’s website.

Free composting workshops: learn to cut food waste by half Did you know that almost half the average Maroondah household’s waste bin is food waste?

Composting is a great way to cut down on household waste. In fact, composting can remove up to 50 per cent from your household waste bin, reducing the burden on landfills while at the same time adding important nutrients to your lawn and garden. You can even save money by reducing the size of your Council waste bin.

To learn more about creating a compost bin, worm farm or Bokashi bin (fermentation bin), Council will be hosting two beginner workshops: Wednesday 24 April (Central Ringwood Community Centre, Ringwood) and Saturday 11 May (Ringwood Community Garden, Wantirna).

All workshop participants will receive a free home kitchen caddy to help with collecting kitchen food waste.

To book, please call Council’s waste education provider EnviroCom on 9703 5288 or visit Council’s website.

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Join the compost Revolution As part of Council’s Compost Revolution initiative, we are offering Maroondah residents 60 per cent off the purchase of a compost bin, worm farm (including worms) or a Bokashi, plus free delivery. Each Maroondah residential property is eligible for one subsidised system each year. For more information, visit Council’s website.

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For those passionate composters who want to take their composting to the next level, we are also offering an Advanced Compost Workshop on Wednesday 20 March (Central Ringwood Community Centre, Ringwood). Here you’ll learn about the science of composting, how PH can impact compost, and so much more.

Enjoy tai chi in the park Join us at an upcoming free tai chi session in front of the Soundshell at Ringwood Lake Park on Friday 12 April.

Classes are held from 5.30pm to 6.15pm you are invited to stay after the class for a picnic - please bring your own picnic food and blanket.

The Oz Tai Chi classes are designed to deliver health benefits more effectively than traditional tai chi as they are taught as an exercise system (as opposed to a martial art) - making the sequences easier to learn.

For the class, please bring your own yoga mat, water bottle and wear loose clothing. If possible, please try not to eat an hour before the classes.

Your Arrabri Councillors

Parking is available at Ringwood Lake Park from the Mt Dandenong Road entrance, with disabled parking bays accessible via the Maroondah Highway entrance.

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Cr Tony Dib JP Mobile: 0438 515 089 One of the highlights of the Maroondah business calendar is the popular Maroondah BizWeek from May 27 to 31.

With 40-plus events, workshops, and free business mentoring sessions, BizWeek is the perfect opportunity for local business owners or those interested in starting a business to explore opportunities, learn from industry experts and connect with others.

As men in business, we can often get caught up in the “busy-ness” of life that we rarely make the time to stop, connect with our mates, have some fun and address the real issues of life.

BizWeek’s Men’s Health Lunch - for Men in Business on 31 May, is a real opportunity to take a break from work and enjoy lunch while hearing from inspirational speakers.

It’s also a great opportunity to network with other men in business. Visit bizhubmaroondah.com.au for more information on BizWeek.

Bookings are essential and can be made online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Paul Macdonald Mobile: 0436 001 760

Cr Kylie Spears, Deputy Mayor Mobile: 0436 003 660

As a representative on the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee, I’m proud of the ever-improving efforts made

by Maroondah households when it comes to recycling. In fact, Maroondah has one of the highest landfill diversion rates amongst Victoria’s 79 councils.

The Bayswater Business Precinct (BBP) is located in the south east corner of Maroondah and is home to 4,500 businesses, supporting 30,000+ jobs.

Just as green waste and general waste can be disposed of in a sustainable manner, so too can electronic waste, or e-waste.

E-waste refers to unwanted and discarded electrical and electronic products – essentially anything that is powered by batteries or an electric cord or plug, with some items containing hazardous materials that are better kept out of landfill sites. For these reasons, it is important that e-waste is well-managed.

Council is holding its annual e-waste collection on Saturday 23 March, from 8.30am-3.30pm at our Council Operations Centre, 24-28 Lincoln Road, Croydon, and I encourage residents to get along to dispose of their electronic waste for free.

I am really proud of Council’s role in working in partnership with our neighbouring councils to support the growth of this important precinct, which generates 38% of Maroondah’s total productivity output, equating to $5 billion.

Maroondah, in partnership with Knox and Yarra Ranges councils, has established a Bayswater Business Precinct program to support local leadership and help position the precinct to attract future investment, increase business competitiveness and generate sustainable employment.

Another recent achievement is supporting the transition of businesses from the automotive supply chain - retaining these businesses in this precinct and supporting them to upskill and adapt to the changing needs will ensure that we are able provide a strong economy for Maroondah and the eastern region.

HE Parker multi-sports complex nears completion It’s been exciting to see the new HE Parker multi-sports complex in Heathmont continuing to take shape since our last update in the December edition of Maroondah in focus.

The $16.5 million transformation of the sporting facility will include a new indoor four-court complex for training and competition in netball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis and wheelchair sports. In addition, four outdoor netball courts have been constructed, incorporating the latest playing surface technology, as well as improved spectator facilities.

The venue will be available to schools, and community and disability groups for use throughout the year.

The project also features a variety of environmentally sustainable design initiatives, among them, specially designed foam insulated cement wall panels, which will not only insulate the building, but help to reduce noise.

The complex will continue to be home to Melbourne East Netball Association (MENA) and to the Ariels, for training and competition. The facility will also serve as the home of Maroondah Volleyball for formal training and competition.

The new complex, funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments, will be owned and managed by Maroondah City Council, and is on track for completion end of April, 2019.

For regular project updates, including progress photos, visit the Maroondah Projects page on Council’s website.

HE Parker Sporting Pavilion redevelopment

Dispose of unwanted electronic items for free

Redevelopment works are set to commence at the HE Parker Sporting Pavilion in mid-2019.

From 1 July 2019, the Victorian Government is banning all e-waste from going to landfill.

The double-storey facility in Heathmont will house four female-friendly change rooms, a large multi-purpose room and amenities. The facility will focus on inclusiveness and accessibility for all abilities.

Once complete, it will accommodate the Heathmont Cricket Club, Heathmont Jets Football and Netball Club and will be home to Sport and Life Training (SALT).

It is also envisaged that the facility will be used by the wider community, including local schools.

You can prepare for the ban by bringing your unwanted electronic items to an e-waste collection event at Council’s Operations Centre.

Council hosts an e-waste drop-off day in March every year. Disposal of e-waste is free for Maroondah residents and there is no need to book.

The next event is Saturday 23 March 2019, 8.30am to 3.30pm at Council’s Operations Centre at 24-28 Lincoln Road, Croydon.

Notes

E-waste – or electronic waste - refers to electronic products that are no longer wanted or working (i.e. fluorescent light globes, CD players, computer equipment, hard drives, keyboards, cables, scanners, printers, monitors, TVs and laptops).

For e-waste recycling options in Maroondah, see Council’s website.

To learn more about the e-waste ban and recycling your e-waste, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au

The Victorian Government is banning e-waste from being sent to landfill from July 2019. E-waste is growing three times faster than general municipal waste in Australia, due to increased technology trends, reduced product lifespan and consumer demand for new products. E-waste contains hazardous materials, which can be harmful to the environment and human health.

C TENDER ISSUE UPDATE B TENDE ISSUAIENT REVIEW

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Artist impression

E-waste collected in Maroondah will be processed by ToxFree E-Cycle at their recycling facility centre in Dandenong.

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The current pavilion is home to the Heathmont Jets Football and Netball Club and Heathmont Cricket Club.

Almost 50 years old, the building can no longer adequately accommodate these clubs and is about to undergo a $3.5 million redevelopment.

Did you know?

ToxFree’s innovative blue box technology breaks down nextgeneration e-waste into saleable commodities - copper, aluminium, plastics and mercury - which can be used by local manufacturers to create new products, or be further processed.

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There has been much progress made over the past couple of months: installation of the building’s glass facade; fencing to the southern court; continued installation of lighting and services to the indoor stadium; and installation of an accessible ramp, paving and garden beds.

Your feedback is important to us – have Your Say! Maroondah is a diverse community with a mix of people from all walks of life, and with unique interest groups. Everyone has a role to play in our community so it is important that our engagement methods are accessible and broad-reaching.

Council uses a variety of consultation activities and communication channels to reach our community. Our Your Say Maroondah online consultation hub is one way we engage with our community and gives residents the opportunity to have direct input on issues that are important to them.

You can find the Your Say Maroondah online consultation hub on Council’s website.

Draft Maroondah Public Lighting Policy 2018 Council thanks residents for their feedback on this policy, which will help to guide us on the design, installation and management of public lighting across Maroondah.

Many of the submissions we received do not support the removal of existing decorative street lights. Due to the high level of responses, we extended our consultation period for a further month, which closed on 1 March 2019. In response to what you have told us, we will undertake further research to examine possible alternatives or solutions, and identify any potential changes that could be made to this draft policy.

In the meantime, Council will continue to respond to the concerns of local residents about the level and condition of existing mercury vapour decorative street lighting within their local neighbourhoods. Keep an eye on the Your Say Maroondah section of our website for further updates.

Maroondah Vegetation Review Council has released an Issues and Options Paper as part of a comprehensive review of Maroondah’s vegetation, its values, and what is needed to ensure its benefits can be enjoyed by future generations. Thank you to everyone who had their say on this important paper as it will help us develop a vegetation strategy with short, medium and long-term initiatives. This includes areas such as practical vegetation management and conservation, policy and planning controls, advocacy,

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Greening the Greyfields education and support to our community.

Submissions recently closed on 15 March 2019, although you can still participate in our ‘Mission Imaginable’ challenge.

This is where you get to prioritise options from the Issues and Options Paper that you feel most strongly about.

Take part in the challenge by clicking on the ‘Maroondah Vegetation Review’ section via our Your Say Maroondah online portal.

Council is looking at new ways of developing our city, so that we can provide for our growing population in an effective and sustainable way.

Most redevelopment of suburban residential lots involve landowners subdividing housing blocks into smaller lots, leading to loss of green space, a lack of housing diversity and overcrowding.

Greening the Greyfields is a pilot project involving extensive research and land analysis to identify local neighbourhoods in which better, more careful design can be applied.

Extensive community consultation has already taken place and this will continue at a precinct level as the pilot develops.

To receive project updates, including details of further consultation opportunities, leave your details using the ‘stay informed’ button on the Greening the Greyfields project page on the website.

Council is in the early stages of preparing a draft masterplan for the Croydon Civic Precinct and we would like to hear your thoughts. Initial investigations show that many of Council’s community facilities within the precinct are in poor condition and do not meet current or anticipated future community needs. The aim is to transform the area into a new community precinct, with a significant focus on community wellbeing that includes civic and recreational elements to be progressively developed from 2019 and beyond. You can share your thoughts and ideas with us via the Your Vision for Croydon Community Precinct tab located via the Your Say Maroondah online portal.

Once collated, Council will use this feedback towards the development of potential design options for the precinct.

Maroondah 2040 It’s been five years since the Maroondah 2040 community vision was developed, and now we are checking in to see what you think has changed in Maroondah in that time. Over the next 12 months, we will be seeking input from the community to refresh Maroondah 2040, which is the blueprint for our future and reflects the hopes and aspirations of our community. Using our easy-to-use interactive mapping tool, you can select a specific area you’d like see to enhanced, share your idea for an area or tell us what you already like – you can see what others are saying, too! There will be further consultation opportunities over the coming months with details posted on Your Say Maroondah, so stay tuned!

New Street, Ringwood – rehabilitation & drainage works Council thanks you for your feedback in relation to upcoming asset enhancement works on the section of New Street between Maroondah Highway and Sylvia Grove in Ringwood.

Investigations of this section of New Street have shown that the road surface is in poor condition and requires renewal.

The community’s feedback will be used to inform the development of a Traffic Concept Plan, with further consultation opportunity for comments on this plan.

Draft Eastfield Park Enhancement Plan Stage 2 community consultation will soon commence on the revised Draft Enhancement Plan for Eastfield Park. We appreciate the time taken by those who have contributed to the project via our online surveys and face-to-face consultation sessions.

Council is reviewing the extensive community feedback to determine common themes, ideas and concerns.

We will also continue to work with current user groups, as well as other interested parties.

Planning for Maroondah’s future parking needs We thank residents for their constructive feedback on our Draft Maroondah Parking Framework.

Your views will be used to further shape this framework and provide an action plan to guide future planning for parking and traffic needs in our municipality.

Council is now in the process of reviewing your responses, with a final report to be presented back to Council for endorsement in the first half of 2019.

Why not register to be part of our online consultation hub, Your Say Maroondah, that way you can stay updated and get involved in what’s happening in Maroondah!

Visit www.yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au

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Croydon Community Precinct

Home ground advantage as clubs prepare for new oval A major redevelopment of the playing surface at Mullum Mullum Oval 2 is nearing completion, in what will provide a boost for local sporting clubs.

The $1.4 million project will improve the playing surface, drainage and irrigation systems, which will make the ground safer and help cater for the growing number of junior and female players using the ground.

Among the works already completed is a new synthetic centre wicket and new multi-sport (cricket and netball) allweather synthetic practice facilities, re-contouring of the playing surface and sand importation on the oval. New turf will also be laid using Santa Ana couch, a warm season grass providing a first-class playing surface.

Your Mullum Councillors

The addition of newly installed lighting at the oval will allow the oval to be used to

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Cr Nora Lamont Mobile: 0428 394 581 With the 2019 football season fast approaching, I’m delighted that more players will soon get to enjoy a highgrade playing surface at Mullum Mullum Oval 2.

Works to upgrade the oval’s playing surface, at a cost of $950,000, are on track with the new-look ground scheduled to reopen in April. This work complements the new Kevin Pratt Pavilion which was completed in 2016.

Mullum Mullum Reserve is a well-utilised sporting precinct, being home to 200plus players, from football, netball and cricket, as well as multiple user groups such as U3A Ringwood.

The works to improve the playing surface will not only make the ground safer, but also help to cater for the growing number of female and junior players using the ground.

This is one of the many examples of Council’s continued investment in the future of grassroots sports.

a greater capacity, with junior teams able to train at their home ground for the first time. The ground will also benefit from a new scoreboard and coaches box.

user groups, and the Norwood Woodettes Netball Club – the largest represented club in the EFL Netball League.

Mullum Mullum Reserve is home to 200+ players from Norwood Cricket Club, Norwood Football Club, multiple

The ground is scheduled to reopen in April.

Cr Samantha Mazzuchelli Mobile: 0408 145 110 I was delighted to see so many people attend our recent Living Maroondah: a future for our plants, animals and us symposium. This was a great example of the community coming together to look at options and issues for the future of vegetation in Maroondah. The success of this event was not only in the 130 people who attended, but in the depth of interactive and positive discussion, all of which will help in the development of Council’s vegetation strategy. Several attendees also expressed their interest in nominating to be a member of the Maroondah Environmental Advisory Committee, which sees Council and key community stakeholders working together on local issues of environmental sustainability. Another way residents can provide valuable feedback is by participating in our ‘Mission Imaginable’ challenge, which forms part of our comprehensive review of Maroondah’s vegetation. We encourage feedback, so please visit the Your Say Maroondah page on Council’s website to get involved.

Cr Mike Symon Mobile: 0436 002 080 It’s been great to watch the redevelopment of the Bill Wilkins Lodge over the past months, with works taking it from a 1950s scout hall to a new facility that is now fit for purpose for the three community groups that call it home. Named for our Freeman of the City, The Bill Wilkins Lodge now has improved facilities for females, a new hall floor and kitchen, and better access to the car park and building entrance.

The $850,000 redevelopment also saw a contribution of $100,000 from the Victorian Government. The Lodge is located within Bedford Park, which is surrounded by some lovely bush reserves with walking paths that link to the Heathmont Rail Trail through to Ringwood Lake and HE Parker Reserve.

It’s great to have this community hub and bushland within walking distance to the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, and providing such great amenity to the many residents who live, work and play nearby.

World-famous Spiegeltent is coming to Maroondah in April Don’t miss your chance to witness this year’s magnificent Ringwood Spiegeltent showcasing the finest cabaret, comedy and acrobatic talent from around the country this April.

The nine-day program – running from Friday 5 April to Saturday 13 April – has something for everyone.

By night, the Ringwood Spiegeltent hosts fabulous evenings and late-night shows for grown-ups.

While for the youngsters, Trash Test Dummies returns from a sell-out season at the Edinburgh Festival to deliver a dump-truck full of hilarity on Saturday 13 April.

For fans of sassy cabaret and burlesque, Dolores Daiquiri returns to host the Moonlight Burlesque show that will launch an amazing season of fun, and you won’t want to miss appearances from some of Australia’s best talent,

including Anthony Callea, Vika & Linda Bull, and Christine Anu. For side-splitting fun, comedic duo Lehmo and Dave O’Neil team up in Two’s Company, along with self-confessed ‘footy head’ and ‘all round top bloke’, comedian Merrick Watts, for an evening of laughs.

There will be nothing but ‘fun, fun, fun’ and ‘good vibrations’ as we celebrate The Beach Boys’ in God Only Knows - Songs of Brian Wilson. The musical tributes continue with Sun Rising - The Songs That Made Memphis, a tribute show to the record label that launched the careers of Elvis, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash, plus singing sensation Nina Ferro salutes the undisputed ‘Queen of Soul’, Aretha Franklin, in Aretha…In Loving Memory.

The program for people of all ages is brought to you by Maroondah City Council, Karralyka and Eastland.

Kerrabee – Providing vital social connections for older people Maroondah’s Social Inclusion and Wellbeing program seeks to ensure our older residents, or those who have a disability, who are socially isolated or at risk of social isolation, receive the support they need to remain independent and involved in their community.

Become a Kerrabee volunteer

The Kerrabee Centre in Croydon offers a planned program of activities for residents aged 65 and over, with various programs - social groups (men’s, women’s & mixed); a dementia carer’s group; and activities such as woodworking, gardening and craft providing important social interaction.

As a volunteer you could help run art and craft activities; assist with meal preparation for clients; or drive the 12-seater bus on days trips, visits to the local libraries and shopping.

These groups can help people regain a sense of purpose in life, enhance selfesteem and foster friendship. The centre also organises library visits, shopping outings, guest speakers, entertainment, workshops, exercise programs and monthly day trips.

Kerrabee Centre programs are based on assessed need. To take part you will need a referral from the Commonwealth Government’s My Aged Care program. For more information, visit Council’s website or call our Social Inclusion and Wellbeing team on 9294 5531.

Council’s Social Support Program is looking for more volunteers to join its day programs, which provide a variety of activities for isolated, frail older people to enhance their health and wellbeing.

Volunteers also provide support to staff, and are integral to the successful provision of Kerrabee’s nine social inclusion and wellbeing programs.

For more information, search for volunteering on Council’s website or call 1300 88 22 33.

Shows are booking fast, so reserve your seats today.

Visit www.karralyka.com.au, call 9879 2933 or visit the Karralyka Box Office, Mines Road, Ringwood East.

$30 million for carparking The Maroondah community will have better access to carparking with the Federal Government announcing $30 million for almost 1,000 car spaces to be built at Croydon and Ringwood train station precincts.

The Federal Government has committed $15 million for each carpark, creating approximately 487 car spaces at Croydon and an additional 482 (approx.) spaces in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre. The new Croydon carpark will be built over the existing carpark in Devon Street, while the location of the Ringwood carpark is still to be determined.

The investment in both carparks is the biggest infrastructure grant for Maroondah to date. The carparks will be funded through the Federal Government’s Urban Congestion Fund with planning to begin immediately.

A further $2.5million Federal Government funding will be spent on an upgrade to Plymouth Road, Croydon to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety, as well as reduce traffic congestion, in this busy school and commercial precinct.

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Situated in the heart of Ringwood adjacent to Ringwood Town Square and opposite Ringwood Station, the 2019 Ringwood Spiegeltent will see the entire precinct transformed for a carnival extravaganza.

Volunteering: good for mind, body and community Retirees, students, professionals, everyday mums and dads – Maroondah volunteers come from all walks of life, yet they share a common goal: to make a difference to the lives of others.

Here in Maroondah, we rely on more than 300 generous volunteers to support Council’s essential community services and keep our programs running. It’s thanks to our volunteers that 34 individual Council-run services and projects are offered to the community, including Meals on Wheels, bushland renewal projects, social support, and youth programs such as the L2P driver mentoring program.

Volunteering not only connects you to others, it can help keep you mentally stimulated and active, and bring fun and fulfillment to your life.

To find out how you can make a rewarding contribution to the community by becoming a volunteer, visit the careers page on Council’s website or call 1300 88 22 33.

Maroondah volunteer fun facts: • 337 volunteers • 2,756 combined years of service • Oldest volunteer: 93 years of age • Youngest volunteer: 16 years of age • Our current longest serving volunteer: 48 years of service

Prepare now for flu season New name Maroondah’s Corporate Flu for popular Program gallery With World Immunisation Week (April 23-29) and winter approaching, it is a timely reminder to get vaccinated before the peak flu period hits.

While it can happen any time, it’s more common to catch the flu, or experience flu-like symptoms, in the colder months of the year, from April to October.

Annual flu vaccination is your best protection against influenza, and April/ May is the best time to get vaccinated, before flu season hits. To help prevent the spread of flu, it is important to avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home if you are unwell and follow good hygiene practices.

The flu vaccine Council provides a safe and reliable immunisation service to Maroondah residents and the wider community.

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Council’s immunisation service has full accreditation in compliance with AS/ NZS ISO 9001 Quality Standards.

Many vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, nursing home residents and people aged over 65 years, are eligible for free flu vaccine.

Those not eligible for the free flu vaccination can still obtain it on a userpays basis.

Council also offers influenza vaccinations to eligible Maroondah businesses and will even visit your workplace to administer them.

Businesses must be located within the City of Maroondah, and have 20 or more employees who want to receive the vaccine.

Corporate Flu Program request forms are available on Council’s website.

For further information, contact us on 1300 88 22 33 or at immunisation@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Our gallery at Maroondah Federation Estate now has a new name – the Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery.

This change gives the gallery a geographical location, and references the gallery’s funding and opening as part of the centenary commemoration of the Federation of Australia in 2001.

This year is shaping up to be an exciting time for the gallery, with exhibitions from emerging artists and community groups as well as established artists, with an emphasis on high-quality local content. The Maroondah Art Collection will also be showcased each year, with a specially curated exhibition.

Visit the gallery and meander through landscaped native gardens and discover interesting insights into the estate’s unique architecture, which includes the State Heritage-listed former Ringwood School House, built in 1921.

The gallery is located within Maroondah Federation Estate at 32 Greenwood Avenue, Ringwood.

For more on our exciting program for Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery in 2019, visit www.artsinmaroondah.vic.gov.au

Take on the fitness challenge this March and April This March and April is all about improving physical and mental wellbeing by staying active. As part of our annual Active Maroondah event season, Council is hosting two community events that are low-cost, fun and family-friendly.

Tri & Duathlon Maroondah, Sunday 17 March 2019

Maroondah Night Run, Friday 5 April 2019

This year, we’re combining two of our favourite community sporting events – Tri Maroondah and the Maroondah Duathlon. Running a course through Town Park, Croydon, and swimming at Aquahub, the Maroondah Tri and Duathlon are great events for all fitness levels. You can choose to do the full triathlon (swim, cycle, run), or the Duathlon Dash (run/walk, ride, run/walk).

Test your endurance in the individual category or take on the challenge together as a group – all within a safe and supportive environment.

Get your glow on and join us for a 5km walk or run sweeping through 18 holes of Ringwood Golf Course – at night!

Once the sun has set, runners and walkers will complete the course, which will be illuminated by glow lights. This event is designed for all ages and athletic abilities.

To register for both events, visit Council’s website or phone 1300 88 22 33.

School holiday program spells fun and learning Looking for ways to keep your child engaged and active during the school holidays?

Our school holiday activities include lots of ways to have fun with a range of free and affordable activities, all within a safe and caring environment.

The upcoming Easter school holidays are packed full of fun and educational things to do, from indoor activities and excursions, to craft and sporting clinics – everything is organised for you!

For those requiring an all-day option, Council runs Vacation Care programs at Springfield Park, Croydon and Belmont Park, Croydon South. Whether a visit to the Scienceworks, a comedy show or a basketball clinic with an appearance from a WNBL player, the focus is on keeping children from Prep to Grade 6

entertained. Programs run between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday during school holidays (except for public holidays).

The Vacation Care Program also attracts Centrelink child care rebates for eligible families.

Maroondah Leisure also has a range of programs for primary school-aged children that will keep them active and teach them new skills in a fun, supportive and social environment. Free for Maroondah Leisure program members, the Holiday Intensive Swim Program offered at Aquanation and Aquahub is a five-day intensive swimming program that reinforces vital water safety skills.

If your kids love sports, The Rings school holiday program includes all-weather basketball, netball, soccer and multisports, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Children aged 5 to 14 years can explore their creative side at Wyreena Community Arts Centre. Offering a range of arts-based holiday programs such as pottery, painting, collage and more.

Classes are divided into age groups.

Bookings for Maroondah’s Vacation Care For more information visit the fill fast, book early to avoid event page on Council’s website. disappointment.

For the full program of events or more information, visit Council’s website or call our Children’s Services team.

Dates for your diary

Until 28 April ArtSpace at Realm Eye of our Ancestors presents five female Indigenous artists – Charlotte Allingham, Deanne Gilson, Genevieve Grieves, Kelly Koumalatsos and Amanda Wright – who poignantly reflect on their relationship with heritage. Defined through their work is a strong connection to culture – be it through traditional colours, symbolism or materials. A powerful sense of identity is brought to the fore, as narratives of the past are traced and redefined with a contemporary voice.

Beyond Boundaries: Sensory Relationships with the Environment

The Divine Miss Bette

5 April to 24 May Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery 32 Greenwood Ave, Ringwood

Book your tickets now and be prepared to be mesmerised by award-winning stage sensation Catherine Alcorn in her hilarious portrayal of Bette Midler.

Featuring an electrifying live band, Alcorn will take you on a thrilling ride back to the Palace Theatre, New York 1973.

Enjoy the Diva’s early classics including The Rose, Stay with me baby, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, and In the mood.

Bookings: www.karralyka.com.au

Visitors to the Gallery are invited to explore multi-disciplinary artworks which collectively elicit responses from all five human senses. This accessible exhibition moves beyond the dominance of visual appreciation of artworks and tempts audiences to touch, look, listen, smell and taste the relationships that diverse artists from Maroondah and beyond have with the environment.

Saturday 1 June at 7.30pm Karralyka, Mines Road, Ringwood East

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Eye of our Ancestors

Settlers Orchard reserve rehabilitation works complete Council recently undertook works to renew, redesign and desilt the reserve pond at Settlers Orchard, Croydon Hills.

We thank residents and users of the reserve for their patience while works were in progress.

Drainage and desilting works to the reserve’s pond were carried out as part of Council’s waterways improvement program, and are now complete. This will ensure the pond continues to provide flood protection and filter pollutants from the sediment pond, naturally.

Your Wyreena Councillors

The majority of silt - made up of fine sand, clay, and other material carried by running water - has been removed. Some of the remaining silt has been let to dry to be reused throughout the park.

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Draining and desilting works to the Settlers Orchard Reserve pond were carried out as part of Council’s ongoing maintenance program.

Cr Tasa Damante Mobile: 0438 704 819 I’m so proud of the fact that Maroondah has led the way with the introduction of Changing Places facilities to Australia, with the first to be built in Ringwood. Visitors to the Croydon Main Street precinct will soon have access to another Changing Places as part of the construction of the new Croydon Town Square.

With thanks to funding from the Victorian Government, the Changing Places facility will be part of the public amenity building that is taking shape and ensures that our new town square is accessible and inclusive - key themes that came out of our community consultation during the design phase.

The integration of the town square paving with the Main Street paving has also been considered, along with the connectivity to the new raised pedestrian crossings that will greatly improve the safety and walkability of pedestrians in the Croydon Town Centre.

Cr Marijke Graham Mobile: 0418 109 015 The improved pedestrian linkage to the public transport hub that our new Croydon Town Square provides is very exciting.

As Council’s representative on the Eastern Transport Coalition, I’m always pleased to see any activity that can enhance and increase public transport use. In addition, the new carparking to be built in Devon Street will also improve commuter access.

The introduction of the new lawn area within the town square is also exciting, it will provide similar opportunities to those experienced by the community in our Ringwood Town Square.

The ability to bring nature into our urban environment is great for our health and wellbeing.

Following the introduction of Council’s new Local Law in January this year, the new Croydon Town Square will be smoke free, bringing further benefits to the health and wellbeing of our community.

Cr Rob Steane, Mayor Mobile: 0407 519 986 Our new Croydon Town Square is fast becoming a reality with the opening on track for the end of March. It’s been wonderful to hear from the community as they’ve watched the construction take shape, and seeing how closely the reality aligns with the design illustrations.

Of course, one of the benefits of the new Town Square will be the improved pedestrian connection and sight lines between the very busy Croydon station and bus interchange and the Main Street shopping precinct.

Other safety initiatives recently completed include the Croydon Connects project which saw the installation of new street lighting and wayfinding signage; an upgrade and extension of the existing CCTV network within the Croydon Town Centre; and the Render Youth Art project which has seen mural artwork introduced into Croydon.

Our community told us that they want to feel safe and connected, and the new Croydon Town Square is another step to improve safety and amenity for Croydon.

Celebrate and enjoy a rich multicultural day in Croydon Be part of this year’s Croydon Multicultural Festival where you’ll get to experience and celebrate the vibrant cultures of the world, right here in Maroondah.

Taking place along Main Street in Croydon, this free two-day festival will be a feast for the senses!

The festival kicks off with a multicultural dining experience with live entertainment on Saturday 16 March, then continues on Sunday 17 March with a ‘festival day’ of cultural dance performances, food and art, and fantastic children’s activities showcasing the diversity of the community.

The event is organised and sponsored by the Croydon Main Street Traders Association, one of five community groups to receive funding support through Council’s 2018/19 Arts and Cultural Grants Scheme.

The funds will go towards the ‘Nation Walk’ Multicultural Costume Exhibition a project showcasing culturally diverse costumes in shop windows as part of the Croydon Multicultural Festival and Cultural Diversity Week (16-24 March) celebrations.

Funding now open The Arts and Cultural Grants Scheme is part of Council’s Community Grants Program and supports not-for-profit groups and organisations to deliver arts and cultural activities that reflect the diversity of the Maroondah community.

Funding is offered annually to groups whose project or program can demonstrate an increase in community participation in arts and cultural activities, and which strengthens the identity and profile of the arts in Maroondah.

For more on the Arts and Cultural Grants Funding Scheme, visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

Splash out before Croydon Memorial Pool season ends Take advantage of the last weeks to enjoy a swim outdoors, with the Croydon Memorial Pool season open until Sunday 14 April 2019.

Croydon Memorial Pool has plenty of space - and shade - to relax or have a splash.

Choose from three heated outdoor pools – 50-metre pool, which is perfect for lap swimming; a leisure pool; and a toddler pool. Gather friends and family together for a picnic poolside on the

lawn, or make use of the BBQ facilities and kiosk.

Open hours during March and April are: Monday to Friday, 6am-10am and 4pm-8pm; weekends and public holidays, 8am-12noon.

Croydon Memorial Pool is an accredited Watch Around Water facility, meaning there are guidelines that must be followed while visiting with children.

To find out more, visit www.maroondahleisure.com.au

Maroondah Highway and Dorset Road upgrade progresses VicRoads has completed Phase 1 and 2 works at the Maroondah Highway and Dorset Road intersection. The left turn slip lane from Maroondah Highway into Dorset Road is now open to traffic, with a reduced speed of 40kmh.

Drainage works on the centre median strip of Maroondah Highway will continue, as well as drainage works on Exeter Road, which will be completed at night. Exeter Road will also be undergoing realignment works on the slip lane into Maroondah Highway and the outbound Maroondah Highway service road exit.

Traffic management will be on site to assist motorists during Phases 3 and 4.

The $8 million Maroondah Highway/ Dorset Road intersection upgrade was funded by the Federal Government, and is still on track to be completed by Autumn 2019.

If you need to travel through the area, allow extra time and obey all signage alerting to changed traffic conditions.

For more information on the project or to register to receive regular project updates on your email, visit www. vicroads.vic.gov.au and search for Maroondah Dorset Road.

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Phase 3 and 4 works started in February, with Dorset Road traffic reduced to one lane each way, and those travelling southbound on Dorset Road being redirected onto the service road, which will be in place until the end of March.

Maroondah City Council is committed to providing equitable service to all in our community.

Please contact us on 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598 if you would like to receive this newsletter in a different format.

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Contact Council on 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598, online at maroondah.vic.gov.au email maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au or visit one of our service centres.

City Offices Offices

Braeside Avenue, Ringwood

Croydon service centre centre

Civic Square, Croydon

Realm service centre centre

179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station)

For full event details, including stage times, visit

www.maroondahfestival.com

Maroondah City Council

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Maroondah City Council

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Maroondah City Council