Cr Linda Hancock to lead Council as Mayor for 2025 / 26
Cr Linda Hancock was elected as Mayor for 2025/26 during a special Council Meeting on Wednesday 12 November.
During her first term as Mayor, Cr Hancock will be supported by Cr Paul Macdonald, who was elected as Deputy Mayor for the second time.
“I’m looking forward to representing our community with integrity, respect, and dedication. I am especially passionate about fostering inclusion – ensuring that everyone in Maroondah, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, feels valued and supported,” Cr Hancock said.
“I will ensure we continue to provide services and facilities that meet the needs of our community and remain focused on delivering outcomes that matter – supporting families
and businesses, strengthening our local economy, enhancing community spaces, and ensuring that we listen to our residents.”
Cr Hancock said she and her fellow Councillors will continue to serve the people of Maroondah with transparency, accountability and care.
“As we enter the second year of this current Council term, I look forward to continuing and completing many of the projects aligned with the new Council Plan 2025 - 2029 and the Maroondah 2050 Community Vision.”
Visit Council’s website to find out more.
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Celebrating Maroondah's best businesses
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Have your say on our draft Climate Change Plan
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Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Linda Hancock (left) with Deputy Mayor, Councillor Paul Macdonald (right).
Welcome to the latest edition of Maroondah news
In this edition, read about a range of community news, updates and events.
Council Customer Service opening hours
Our Customer Service team is here to help. Visit us at:
Realm Ringwood Town Square 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station)
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm Open Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 5pm Croydon Service Centre Croydon Library, Civic Square, Croydon
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Closed on weekends and public holidays.
Festive season opening hours – both centres
For a list of reduced opening hours over the holiday period, please visit Council’s website.
Read online
Scan the QR code to read our latest edition of Maroondah news online.
Scan the QR code to subscribe to Maroondah eNews, our digital community newsletter.
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.
CONNECT WITH US
Celebrating Maroondah’s best businesses
Congratulations to this year’s Maroondah Business Excellence Award winners!
Boss Aluminium took home the 2025 Business of the Year award.
Boss Aluminium Founder and Owner, Dave Whitehead (pictured right), and All-Rounder, Maria Whitehead, accepted the award. “Boss Aluminium has been around for almost 26 years now as proud Australian manufacturers. This recognition is a credit to our staff, which is so important. It’s also thanks to our customers, the community, and all those who have supported and mentored us over all these years,” Dave said.
This year's category awards were presented to Empowering Beauty, IDEA Constructions, Aughtersons Lawyers, MoleSpot Skin Cancer Clinic, Sustainnovate, Boss
Aluminium, Calgraphics Australasia, Elope Australia, and Pinchapoo.
Presented in partnership with Community Bank Ringwood East and Croydon, the awards recognise local businesses and celebrate the difference they are making in Maroondah.
Congratulations to all winners and finalists. You can read more on Council’s website.
You report it, we resolve it!
Direct. Quick. Simple. Report an issue directly with Council.
Did you know you can speak to a real person via live chat on Council’s website to report an issue or request a service? From 8.30am to 5pm weekdays, and 9.30am to 5pm weekends, our Customer Service team is online to help you!
You can report anonymously or receive a customer reference number to track your request.
Report directly to Council by sending a text or MMS with a photo and information to 0468 003 100, or by using the chat function on Council’s website, which is available 24 hours a day,
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS
Monday 24 November, 7.30pm Monday 15 December, 7.30pm
7 days a week so you can report it anytime and we will follow up with you directly during office hours.
Reporting directly to Council is the most effective and efficient way to have your request or issue resolved quickly. Add ‘Maroondah City Council’ to your phone contacts today!
So, whether it’s graffiti, a missed bin collection, broken footpath, blocked drain or damage to a Council sign or facility, report directly through Council for a quick and easy reporting process.
Please recycle this publication.
Where: Council Chamber, Realm, Ringwood
Join online: www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/Council-meetings
If attending in person, please arrive on time for the start of the meeting.
Strategic tree planting creating better outcomes
Did you know Council uses innovative, climate-focused thinking and technology to strategically plant trees throughout Maroondah?
Council plants trees on nature strips, in open space, in shopping precincts, as part of Capital Works projects and as part of the Schools First Tree Planting program.
The Schools First Tree Planting program leverages national census data, innovative machine-learning technology, spatial analysis, and school-generated data to prioritise street tree planting that helps provide more shade for families walking to school.
To develop and manage a strategic planting schedule for this program, Council's Tree Management team uses Tree Ledger and Tree Plotter. Tree Ledger is an inventory and asset management software that uses spatial analysis technology to detect foliage cover from aerial images and plot a 1-kilometre radius walking catchment around each primary school in Maroondah.
This combination of technology and other data allows Council to prioritise
streets and ‘walk to school’ routes that will benefit most from planting, based on the level of tree canopy cover and socio-economic disadvantage. All of this helps to create cooler, more walkable and attractive streets, encouraging Maroondah families to walk to school while also reducing transport-related greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
Tree Plotter software also enables the team to record important tree
information, including precise location, species, health, age, growth and size, and even vandalism and tree death.
Innovative software like this makes it easier for Council’s teams to create efficient, manageable daily tree watering programs, and helps manage regular tree maintenance work.
Visit Council’s website to learn more.
Have your say on our draft Climate Change Plan
Council has long recognised the importance of addressing climate change. Since 2011/12, Council has reduced emissions by almost 70 per cent from Council operations.
The new draft Climate Change Plan 2026-2031 has been developed to support a green, sustainable and safe Maroondah, with resilient and connected communities. It focuses on building resilience to climate change in Council’s operations and services while strengthening Council’s emissions reduction ambitions.
The Plan also seeks to support the Maroondah community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve
Did you know?
its ability to respond to the effects of climate change.
Provide us with your feedback on our draft Plan, and tell us what Council can do to help you lower emissions and prepare for climate change.
Visit the Your Say Maroondah website to share your thoughts by Friday 12 December.
The Your Say Maroondah website now has new features to make it even easier for Maroondah residents and community members to participate and share their thoughts on important projects. Visit yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au to find out more.
What’s On
Visit Council’s website or scan the QR code for more information about these and other events. Hosting a community event? Visit our website and add your event to our online ‘Events calendar’.
9 Nov
WYREENA MAKERS MARKET
Saturday 29 November, 9am to 2pm Wyreena Community Arts Centre, Croydon
Join us for another popular Wyreena Makers Market featuring local artists and makers. Discover unique, hand-crafted gifts for the upcoming Christmas season or find something special for yourself. Enjoy wandering around the historic buildings and gardens while you shop and don’t forget to try something delicious from The Conservatory Café.
7 Dec
SUMMER SUNDAYS AT AQUAHUB
Sunday 7 December, 12.30pm to 3.30pm Aquahub, Croydon
Dive into summer fun at Maroondah Leisure! Bring your family and friends for an action-packed day at Aquahub. Join in the free activities including a DJ, pool inflatables, games and relays, and a barbecue provide by K-Café. You can also purchase coffee and treats from K-Café. Enjoy special entry prices, valid from 12noon to 3pm: $7 casual entry, $21 for a family of four, or free for members. All welcome, no bookings required. Keep an eye out for more Summer Sundays events at other locations in January and February!
8 Dec
UKULELE PERFORMANCE AND SINGALONG
Monday 8 December, 10am Croydon Library, Croydon
Gather your friends and family, wear your favourite festive outfit and enjoy a performance of popular songs and Christmas favourites, presented by Croydon U3A’s ukulele group. Join in from 10am for light refreshments, followed by the performance starting at 10.30am. Find out more via the Your Library events website events.yourlibrary.vic.gov.au
6 Dec
MAROONDAH CAROLS
Saturday 6 December, 6pm to 10pm Town Park, Croydon
Join MC Lucy Holmes for a magical night of entertainment and sing along to all your favourite festive songs, with performances by Samantha Du Rennes, Jonathan Guthrie-Jones, Lauren Neivandt and Julian Dunham. Visit the kids’ activity zone and don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display at approximately 9.30pm!
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6 Jan
AUSTRALIA DAY EVENT AND AWARDS
Monday 26 January, 9am to 2.30pm Ringwood Lake Park, Ringwood
Watch as the winners of the 2026 Maroondah Australia Day Awards are announced at our Australia Day event. You can also witness our newest community members take the pledge or oath to become Australian citizens. Enjoy free family-friendly activities from 10.30am, including face painting, kids’ craft, free kids’ rides and roving performers.
News in Brief
MAKE A SPLASH AT CROYDON MEMORIAL POOL
Splash around this summer at Croydon Memorial Pool, with the 50-metre pool now open for the 2025/2026 season and the toddler and leisure pools reopening on Monday 1 December.
All pools at Croydon Memorial Pool are heated, including the 50-metre pool, leisure pool and toddler pool. Croydon Memorial Pool also features a snack-filled kiosk and lush lawns, making it the perfect outdoor venue. Aqua aerobics classes are bookable online or via the TechnoGym app.
Visit the Maroondah Leisure website www.maroondahleisure.com.au for more information and to plan your visit.
SHOP LOCALLY THIS FESTIVE SEASON
There’s something for everyone in Maroondah, with more than 30 local shopping centres and retail precincts throughout the city. Purchasing from local retailers and service providers is a great way to support local jobs while building connections in your local community.
Why not try shopping locally, eating somewhere new or visiting local retailers this festive season? You might find a hidden gem in your neighbourhood.
Visit the ‘Your local shops’ page on the BizHub Maroondah website www.bizhubmaroondah.com.au to find shopping centres near you.
BIN COLLECTION CONTINUES OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON
Your general waste, food organics and garden organics (FOGO) and recycling bins will still be collected on a public holiday, even Christmas Day!
Visit the ‘Waste collection schedule’ page on Council’s website to find out when your next bin collection service is scheduled.
Look for your 2026 Waste Collection Calendar and map in Maroondah news Summer 2026, or download a copy from Council’s website.
Supporting young people to build healthy relationships
We all have a role to play in preventing gender-based violence. Join a free webinar on Wednesday 26 November, 7.30pm to 9pm, on the importance of healthy relationships in the lives of young people.
Parents, carers and anyone supporting young people aged 8 to 14 years can learn about breaking down gender stereotypes, encouraging respect and how to have important wellbeing conversations with young people.
The webinar coincides with the 16 Days of Activism against GenderBased Violence, a global campaign that promotes gender equality and encourages action to prevent gender-based violence. In Victoria, it is led by Respect Victoria and supported by Safe + Equal. Look out for Council’s billboards supporting the related state-wide ‘Respect Is’ campaign.
Visit Council’s website to learn more and register for the webinar.
If you or someone you know needs support:
• call 000 in an emergency
• call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for 24/7 confidential counselling, support and safety planning.
Discover ideas for summer holiday fun
Visit Council’s website for ideas to keep your children entertained these school holidays.
Maroondah Leisure offers school holiday programs to keep children active and social as they enjoy activities led by experienced coaches, with programs available for children aged 5 to 14 years. Junior golf clinics are available at Ringwood Golf and Dorset Golf for budding golf enthusiasts.
For something different, why not make a splash at Croydon Memorial Pool, Aquahub or Aquanation; take part in a variety of activities at Realm and Croydon libraries; or enjoy the summer sunshine and public art in Maroondah’s beautiful parks, playgrounds and reserves.
Visit the ‘Children’s activities and programs’ page on Council’s website to learn more.
Making progress in Maroondah
As part of Council’s $46.03 million Capital Works Program, projects are continuing to take shape.
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
There is still time to have your say on the draft concept design plan for the Croydon Main Street Revitalisation project. We’re asking the community to provide feedback on the key elements of the project, including planned improvements to:
• lighting and security
• landscaping and green spaces
• public art and cultural features
• safety and accessibility
• street furniture and public amenities
• outdoor dining and activation zones
Community feedback will directly inform the final design, ensuring the revitalised Main Street reflects our community’s needs and aspirations. Thank you to those who have already provided valuable feedback and to our traders and community for helping to create a safer, greener, and more vibrant Croydon Main Street.
Consultation closes on Monday 24 November and more information will be provided as the project progresses.
Find out more and have your say at yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au/ croydon-main-street-revitalisation
PATHWAYS
Footpath construction is underway across Maroondah to connect and improve the Principal Pedestrian Network.
Upcoming
• Fyfe Avenue, Ringwood, due to commence in late November 2025
Underway
• Kubis Drive, Ringwood North, due for completion in December 2025 Complete
Heatherdale Road, Vermont (pictured above)
• Kubba Road and Werac Drive, Ringwood North (pictured below)
• Lincoln Road, Croydon
Find out more online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/ newfootpaths
OPEN SPACE
Playspace upgrades
Works are underway to renew Lipscombe Park playspace in Croydon, with works due for completion in early 2026 (artist impressions above and below).
Croydon Z Space playspace renewal works are also due to start in February. More information will be provided as the project progresses.
Council has received $500k in funding from the Victorian Government to undertake major upgrades of the Hughes Park pavilion (artist impression above).
Works are underway and include the construction of new changerooms that are female-friendly and align with AFL and Cricket Australia requirements, roof reconstruction and accessibility improvements.
Find out more online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/ hughes-park-pavilion
Learn more
Scan the QR code to visit the ‘Maroondah projects’ page on Council’s website to find out more and see other projects in progress. Enter your location to find projects near you.
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Pavilion upgrade in Croydon North
Volunteer in the new year
It’s International Volunteer Day on Friday 5 December. If you’re thinking about volunteering in 2026, there are plenty of opportunities in Maroondah.
Volunteering offers lots of benefits to both you and the community. When you volunteer, you can learn new skills, meet new people, gain experience and expand your career choices, give back to the community, gain personal satisfaction, build self-confidence and have fun.
Council offers a range of volunteering opportunities, including:
• Assisting with maintaining Maroondah’s parks, gardens and reserves
• Supporting young people to gain 120 hours of driving practice
• Checking in with older residents through the Maroondah Seniors Register
• Assisting with Meals on Wheels deliveries, and more.
OTHER LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES
Whether you can spare a few hours a month or are able to volunteer each week, all offers of assistance are welcome.
Scan the QR code or visit the ‘Volunteering’ page on Council’s website to find out more.
EV Strengthening Communities can also help you find the right local volunteering role for you. In partnership with Council, the team supports individuals to find a range of volunteering opportunities in Maroondah – both with Council and many other organisations – and matches candidates to their ideal role based on interests, availability and skills. To find out more, visit www.ev.org.au or call 9870 7822.
Your Councillors
YARRUNGA WARD
Cr Rob Steane OAM 0407 519 986
MCALPIN WARD
Cr Nate Henderson 0437 969 722 WONGA WARD
Cr Linda Hancock
JUBILEE WARD
0473 194 871 WOMBOLANO WARD
Cr Claire Rex 0476 010 752
Cr Kylie Spears 0436 003 660
2026 FOGO liner deliveries –check your status
In mid-February 2026, Council will start the delivery of food organics and garden organics (FOGO) kitchen caddy liners to households with a residential kerbside FOGO service.
Please contact Council if:
• You received liners in 2025 and don’t want to receive them in the future, or
• You previously declined liners and would like to receive them in 2026 and beyond, or
• If you have moved since February 2025, and want to check the delivery status for your new address.
Meanwhile, if you need more liners before the next delivery, simply drop into our Customer Service Centres at Realm or Croydon to collect a top-up pack.
Scan the QR code or visit Council's website www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/fogo to change or check your delivery status.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Croydon Service Centre
Croydon Library, Civic Square, Croydon Realm
179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood Mail PO Box 156, Ringwood, VIC 3134
Live chat via our website www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
What should I do with my real Christmas tree?
Council offers some simple, sustainable options to help you dispose of your tree after Christmas if you can’t use the tree for wood or mulch on your property.
FOGO BIN
Your Christmas tree can go in your lime green-lidded food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bin! First, make sure you cut it up into sections no larger than 10cm in diameter and 40cm long.
BUNDLED PRUNINGS COLLECTION
Please ensure you have booked a collection prior to placing your bundled prunings on the nature strip.
Prune the tree and branches to ensure these are smaller than 20cm wide and 150cm long. Bundle and tie your prunings with natural string or twine. Then place your tree limbs and any bundled prunings in a neat pile on your nature strip.
Visit Council’s website for more details on how to present bundled prunings and to book a collection.
Phone
Call 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598 SMS 0468 003 100
maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au
Subscribe to Maroondah eNews via our website.
The information provided in this newsletter was accurate at the time of print. For the latest information, please visit Council’s website.
Maroondah City Council is certified for its organisational operations.
Food Organics and Garden Organics