Maroondah News - Summer 2021/22

Maroondah news Your community newsletter

Summer 2021/2022

See page 8 and 9 for your guide to waste and recycling in Maroondah View Maroondah news online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/MaroondahNews

Mayor’s message Welcome to the summer edition of Maroondah News and my first as the newly elected Mayor of Maroondah for 2021/22.

As Mayor of Maroondah, and with the support of our new Deputy Mayor, Councillor Rob Steane, and my fellow Councillors, I look forward to serving the Maroondah community over the next 12 months.

Mayor, Councillor Mike Symon

Council meetings Council meetings are generally held on the third Monday of each month from 7.30pm in the Council Chamber at Realm and are live-streamed via Council’s website.

Upcoming dates for 2022 are: Monday 21 February Monday 28 March Monday 11 April Council meetings are open to the public and are promoted across a range of channels, with an open invitation to attend (pending COVID restrictions). Agendas are made available on our website the Friday before the meeting date.

Council opening hours over festive season Do you have Council business over the Christmas season? Our customer service centres are here to help. See our operating hours below or visit our website.

Realm Service Centre Ringwood Town Square 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station) Monday 27 December 10am to 5pm Tuesday 28 December 10am to 5pm Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 December 9am to 8pm Friday 31 December 9am to 5pm Sunday 2 January 9am to 5pm Monday 3 January 10am to 5pm Wednesday 26 January 10am to 5pm Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day Croydon Service Centre Croydon Library, 5 Civic Square, Croydon Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Friday 24 December 9am to 11am Friday 31 December 9am to 1pm Closed on all public holidays Front page: Artist Simone Thomson (Wurundjeri/Yorta Yorta) with her latest creation Marrup Biik - Spirit Land 2021

After living through the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 20 or so months, I am looking forward to 2022 being a year where we can get back to enjoying the things we have been missing.

We will be focused on ensuring our city not only rebounds from the impacts of the pandemic but remains a well-connected and dynamic municipality - one that supports a vibrant, healthy and inclusive community.

As this is our summer edition, there’s plenty of news and information on activities to enjoy, along with some key health and safety messaging when it comes to being prepared for days of extreme heat, as well as pool safety.

This issue also provides updates on the many projects, services and initiatives that Council is delivering. We look forward to seeing the completion of new facilities at Cheong, Ainslie and Proclamation parks, which will be used by a range of community and sporting organisations.

Work will also continue as we develop the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct, and we also look forward to creating a new Croydon Town Centre as we work in partnership with the Victorian Government to remove the Coolstore Road level crossing and create a new Croydon station and bus interchange.

Each of these exciting projects will bring many new opportunities to Maroondah.

Over the next few months, we have a number of family-friendly community events planned.

I hope to see as many of our community as possible at our annual Australia Day celebrations at Ringwood Lake Park on Wednesday 26 January 2022.

Not only is this an enjoyable, free event for the whole family, but also a symbolic day for those receiving Australian citizenship and those honoured in our Maroondah Australia Day Awards.

As Mayor, my goal is to ensure that residents and businesses are connected with, and informed about, the work Council is doing on their behalf. This includes seeking feedback on a range of activities and projects, and I encourage you to join in the conversation with us, whether that be through our online discussions and surveys, sending an email, following us on Facebook, or even mailing us a letter.

And finally, on behalf of my fellow Councillors, I would like to wish all our residents, their friends and family, a happy, safe and enjoyable festive season.

Cr Mike Symon Mayor of Maroondah

Stay in contact with us Do you have Council business, but not sure how best to get in contact with us?

Our Customer Service team is available to chat over the phone on 1300 88 22 33, on ‘live chat’ via our website or you can send us a text message to 0480 020 200 or email us at maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au Our website also has a number of ways you can stay in contact, make a request and report matters to Council.

You can also stay in touch and interact with Council on a range of social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), as well as have your say about projects on our Your Say Maroondah consultation website.

To make sure you’re keeping up with the latest news and activities in Maroondah, why not subscribe to our fortnightly Maroondah News e-newsletter. It includes the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox! To become a subscriber, visit our website and fill in your details - it’s that easy!

The information provided in this newsletter was accurate at the time of print. Due to current COVID restrictions a delay in delivery may have occurred. We apologise for any inconvenience. For the latest information visit Council’s website.

2 | Maroondah news

Pam Catling our 2021 Bill Wilkins Volunteer of the Year Award recipient A love of indigenous plants and local native bushland has led to more than 27 years of volunteering for Pam Catling.

Her dedication to protecting and enhancing our local environment has seen her awarded the 2021 Bill Wilkins Volunteer of the Year Award.

Pam has contributed to the significant preservation and rehabilitation of valued environmental areas through her involvement with Heathmont Bushcare and CRISP Nursery. Her volunteering efforts have helped propagate thousands of plants that have, in turn, improved the

health, biodiversity and ecosystems of our natural bushland areas, green spaces, and our local community.

embody the spirit of volunteering through their exemplary contribution to the community.

In addition, Pam has also volunteered at Maroondah Hospital for 17 years and Delivered Meals for four years.

The award was presented on December 8, as part of our annual International Volunteer Day celebrations. The ceremony was hosted by the Mayor and attended by all award nominees and those who nominated them.

Named in honour of community stalwart and Freeman of the City, Bill Wilkins, the award is presented annually in recognition of those volunteers who inspire and

Read more about the award on Council’s website.

Celebrating half a century of volunteering Two Maroondah volunteers have been recognised for achieving 50 years of service to our community.

Fay Lawn and Adele Allen, both Delivered Meals volunteers, were formally recognised for their years of volunteer service at our Annual Volunteer Recognition event on Wednesday 8 December.

At the event we also celebrated the contribution of volunteers who have been giving their time freely for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years.

Volunteers have never been more important, which is why we give thanks to and acknowledge the valuable contributions made by these long-service volunteers.

Did you know?

It’s thanks to our 400-plus volunteers that 34 individual Council-run services and projects are offered to our community, such as Delivered meals, bushland renewal projects, social support, and youth programs such as the L2P driver mentoring program.

Fay Lawn

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, Council has a range of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Call us on 1300 88 22 33 or visit the volunteering page on our website.

As part of our International Volunteers Day celebrations, we acknowledged 54 long-serving volunteers who have collectively been volunteering for 1145 years.

Adele Allen

Join us for Australia Day Come and celebrate the Australian spirit with us on 26 January 2022 at Ringwood Lake Park.

The annual event is an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy free family-friendly activities including children’s entertainment, rides and face painting.

The Maroondah Australia Day award recipients will also be announced acknowledging our Citizen of the Year; Young Citizen of the Year and Event of the Year. You can also watch our newest community members take the pledge or oath to become Australian citizens.

The formalities start at 9.30am with the family-friendly activities running from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Come along to Ringwood Lake Park, corner of Maroondah Highway and Mount Dandenong Road, Ringwood.

For more information, visit the Australia Day event page on Council’s website.

Australia Day is a popular day for people to take the oath to become an Australian Citizen.

Summer 2021/2022 | 3

Local neighbourhood improvements As part of our Capital Works Program, Council has been undertaking many important projects based on our community’s needs and feedback. Capital works can include renewals, upgrades or expansions of our existing infrastructure or assets. All projects, no matter how big or small, aim to make a significant difference to our community. Did you see us in your neighbourhood?

Below is a list of some of the recent capital works projects that have recently been completed: • Croydon Tennis Club synthetic court upgrade works • Installation of road safety bollards - Railway Avenue/Laurence Grove intersection, Ringwood East • Construction of 500m of new footpaths along Yarra Road, Croydon Hills; James Kerr Way, Croydon • Construction of new footpath and drainage improvement works near Croydon Road at Lincoln Road, Croydon

• Maroondah Village Shopping Centre (Croydon North) Improvement Works Installation of new wheel stops and bollards • Ryland Avenue Shopping Centre, Croydon - Construction of new parklet/outdoor dining area

• Accessibility improvements within Croydon has seen the reconstruction of 29 kerb ramps • Footpath connection improvements at Waterloo Street and Cuthbert Street intersection, Heathmont

• Construction of new footpaths and drainage improvements at Tudor Court and Tagell Road, Ringwood East

• Intersection improvements Melview Drive and Leslie Grove intersection, Ringwood North has seen the construction of a splitter island

• Albert Reserve, in Ringwood, playground renewal

• Laneway construction at Kulpunya Walk in Ringwood

• Waste access improvements at Oaktree Road, Croydon North

To see what other projects are underway or planned for our city, visit our Maroondah Projects page on Council’s website.

• Disabled carparking at Murray Place, Ringwood

‘Life after lockdown’ and keeping safe Using the Victorian Government QR code Checking in is a simple step we can all take to protect our businesses, communities, and each other.

The Victorian Government is asking everyone to download the Service Victoria app, link your digital vaccination certificate, and to check in when visiting supermarkets, shops, cafes, businesses, community venues, places of worship and workplaces - regardless of how long you spend at the venue.

You can download the latest version of the Service Victoria app onto your smartphone from the App Store or Google Play.

You can link your digital vaccination certificate using the step by step instructions on the coronavirus website at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Vaccination The Victorian Government is encouraging everyone who is eligible for a COVID vaccine or their booster shot to get vaccinated. Being vaccinated against COVID-19 will help keep you, your family and our community safe. For more information and to book a vaccination visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Vaccination social scripts Social scripts have been developed for people in our community, including those on the autism spectrum, who may find the process of getting a COVID vaccination stressful.

Autism peak body Amaze, has developed the scripts which provide story-based strategies using images and descriptions to explain new experiences and social environments. They help to prepare people for their vaccination and reduce anxiety.

Visit www.amaze.org.au to download a copy of the script or to learn more.

Get the App

4 | Maroondah news

Scan the QR code

The green tick = you’re checked in!

LXRP update The Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) are quickly progressing works at the sites of three level crossings to be removed in Maroondah by 2025.

Council is working closely with the LXRP team to plan for the removal of the crossings at Bedford Road, Ringwood; Dublin Road, Ringwood East; and Coolstore Road, Croydon; as well as for new stations at Ringwood East and Croydon.

Site investigations have commenced in the rail reserve and in local streets around the Dublin Road level crossing, with investigations to commence in the coming months for the Bedford and Coolstore road crossings.

Keep up to date on each of these important projects for our community by visiting www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au

Home-ground advantage: Investing in the future of grassroots sports Despite the challenges of 2021, exciting progress has been made to improve and complete some of our major community assets and sporting infrastructure that will serve our community for years to come.

RO Spencer Pavilion Jubilee Park

$8m Dorset Recreational sports hub

Proclamation Park Sporting Pavilion redevelopment

The $3.5 million redevelopment of the RO Spencer Pavilion is now complete, providing outstanding new facilities for several clubs and the wider community.

Works on the new pavilion at Dorset Recreation Reserve have already begun to take shape as part of a multi-million-dollar enhancement of the reserve.

The redevelopment of the Proclamation Park Sporting Pavilion is just one of many exciting projects that are transforming the landscape of Maroondah.

The improved multipurpose pavilion comes just in time for the cricket season, with female-friendly player change rooms and amenities to help maximise growing participation of female cricket.

Once complete, the new multipurpose community and sports hub will be home to Croydon City Soccer Club and Maroondah’s Burmese/Myanmar community.

The bold vision for this $3.25 million project is taking shape, with the new-look pavilion positioned to capture 180-degree views of the field.

The facility is being funded by Council with $2 million from the Australian Government and $2 million from the Victorian Government.

The two-storey facility will provide female friendly facilities to help meet the growing numbers keen to join local clubs based at the park.

These works form part of the enhancement plan for the reserve, which also includes upgrades to the open space and accessibility within the precinct with improved lighting, signage and carparking.

In addition, there will be an accessible public toilet, social rooms, storage for clubs, and a first-floor multipurpose room with kitchen, kiosk and spectator viewing area.

Meanwhile, the site of the existing pavilion will make way for much-needed additional carparking for this well-utilised reserve.

The new pavilion features multipurpose spaces for enhanced community use, as well as new change and toilet facilities, designated office, social space and spectator viewing area that will provide clubs with more space to host training and local competition.

The RO Spencer Pavilion serves the Jubilee Sporting precinct and the Russell Lucas Oval, which is a Premier Grade cricket ground.

The pavilion redevelopment is part of a broader precinct enhancement plan for Jubilee Park that will see some key longer-term outcomes for the community to be implemented over the next 10 years.

The $3.5 million project was jointly funded

by Council and the Victorian Government, which has invested $2 million through a Community Sports Infrastructure grant.

The works for Stage 1 of the enhancement plan will include a multipurpose pavilion, two new soccer pitches (one synthetic) with lighting, and warm-up pitch/volley ball courts.

Further enhancements to sporting facilities, lighting and pedestrian connectivity will be considered for implementation in future stages of the project.

The new pavilion will be home to the Ringwood Cricket Club, Ringwood Saints Baseball Club, and Proclamation Park Walkers.

This $3.25 million project is funded by Council with contributions from the Victorian Government $100,000 and $20,000 from Cricket Victoria. It is expected to be complete by March 2022.

Ainslie Park Construction is planned to begin in early 2022 on a new multipurpose pavilion at Ainslie Park. It will support the development of football and cricket competition, which will provide improved female-friendly facilities and accessibility.

The Ainslie Park pavilion is home to the Ainslie Park Cricket Club who have an

extensive Junior program as well as Senior and Veteran teams. It is also home to the East Ringwood Junior Football Club Inc, fielding both male and female teams, across a range of age groups.

In addition to the pavilion redevelopment, the gravel carpark will also be resurfaced with asphalt.

For more updates or photos on these and other developments, visit the project pages on Council’s website.

Summer 2021/2022 | 5

VECO partnership wins Climate Awards As a member of the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO), Council is proud to advise that the VECO project has won the Collaboration Category in the 2021 Cities Power Partnership Climate Awards. These awards recognise councils demonstrating climate mitigation action across 37 action pledge items under the Cities Power Partnership.

The Collaboration Award is for the best demonstration of how a partnership has embodied working together for great impact and resulted in tangible climate action outcomes.

VECO is the largest emissions reduction project ever undertaken by the local government sector in Australia. As part of this initiative, Maroondah is one of 46 Victorian Councils that have combined their electricity needs into one long-term contract for renewable energy generated from wind farms right here in Victoria.

Since July this year, that renewable energy has been used to power council-owned infrastructure, like our civic centres and offices, sports grounds, community venues, leisure centres and streetlights.

This is just one of many projects that Council is working on to reduce our carbon emissions and ensure an environmentally sustainable future. To find out more visit our website.

Barngeong Ward

Bungalook Ward

Jubilee Ward

Cr Marijke Graham Mobile: 0418 109 015 marijke.graham@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Tony Dib OAM JP Mobile: 0438 515 089 tony.dib@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Mike Symon - Mayor Mobile: 0436 002 080 mike.symon@maroondah.vic.gov.au

In Maroondah we have more than 20,300 dogs and cats registered with Council.

Over the past two years we’ve realised the importance of looking out for each other and having a constant social connection.

That is why I love this time of year so much, as it brings people together.

I’m pleased that we’ve been able to complete the new RO Spencer Pavilion at Jubilee Park as scheduled.

Your Councillors

By using renewable energy, collectively we’ll be saving a combined total of 260,000 tonnes of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere – the same as taking 90,000 cars off the road.

It’s important to remember that owning a dog or cat comes with responsibility.

One of the first things you should do is get your pet microchipped and registered with Council, which will help to protect it if it happens to become lost.

While there are a number of parks that you can have your dog off lead - at all other times please make sure that you keep them on a lead and pick up after them.

We want to make sure our parks and reserves can be enjoyed by all users, so it’s important that we all do the right thing while out enjoying a walk with our dogs.

Visit Council’s website to find out more about how you can be a responsible pet owner.

6 | Maroondah news

Please take the opportunity to check in on your friends, family and neighbours and if you think someone needs a little extra support please encourage them to reach out to our MaroondahConnect service.

A simple phone call can connect people with a range of emotional, practical and social supports if you are feeling lonely or isolated or facing some difficulties.

For young people, if you are looking for ways to reconnect with others in the community there are a range of community and sporting groups seeking new members for 2022. Whether you want to start a new sport, join a hobby group or volunteer, you can find a full listing of our local community groups on Council’s website.

The $3.5 million redevelopment includes improved accessibility features; new change and toilet facilities; female-friendly amenities; social space and balcony; and designated office space.

The pavilion redevelopment is also part of a broader precinct enhancement plan that will see some key longer-term outcomes for the community implemented over the next 10 years.

Also in the Jubilee Ward, the new $3.25 million pavilion at Proclamation Park is progressing well, and is expected to be completed and ready for use in March.

If you’re out walking around either of these sporting precincts, be sure to have a look at the great new facilities our community will benefit from for years to come.

Waste and recycling

2022 Maroondah Waste and Recycling Guide This guide includes information on how to use your waste services, including: • dates for your fortnightly recycling and garden organics bin collection • information on where you can take items for safe recycling and disposal, such as paint, chemicals, and electronic waste • information on what can and cannot go in your garbage, recycling and organics bins • waste and recycling education program events

Recycle right in Maroondah

Yes!

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We can go in your recycling bin!

Hard plastic bottles and containers Glass bottles and jars Paper and cardboard

Steel cans

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Yes!

Aerosols

Aluminium cans and foil

For a detailed list of items that can go in your recycling bin visit

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We can go in your garden organics bin!

Grass clippings and weeds

Branches and small logs (up to 10cm in diameter and 40cm in length)

ü

Garden prunings

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Leaves

For more information on where you can safely and responsibly dispose of items go to Council’s A-Z of waste disposal guide

Summer 2021/2022 | 7

Waste and recycling

2022 WASTE 2021 WASTE CALENDAR CALENDAR Collections occur on the day of the week shown on your area of the map below.

Your bins will still be collected on a public holiday - even Christmas Day!

How to use the waste calendar map Find your street on the map to see your collection day and area. Once you know your Area, refer to the calendar on the next page and see which week you should put out your garden organics or recycling bin.

If you’re not sure what your collection day is, scan the QR code or search for ‘waste and rubbish’ on our website.

8 | Maroondah news

Waste collection

Waste and recycling

2022 WASTE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Recycling Keep the calendar on your fridge for a quick reference guide on which bin night it is.

Garden Organics

Area A JANUARY 2022 S 30 2 9 16 23

M 31 3 10 17 24

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

FEBRUARY 2022 S 1 8 15 22 29

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

MAY 2022 S 1 8 15 22 29

M 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

W 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23

T 3 10 17 24

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JUNE 2022 F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

S

M

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S 30 2 9 16 23

M 31 3 10 17 24

SEPTEMBER 2022 S

T 1 8 15 22

MARCH 2022

F 2 9 16 23 30

W 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S

M

T

W

T

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JULY 2022 F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

S 31 3 10 17 24

S 1 8 15 22 29

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

OCTOBER 2022 S 3 10 17 24

T 1 8 15 22 29

APRIL 2022

M

T

W

T

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24

S 2 9 16 23 30

AUGUST 2022 F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

S 7 14 21 28

NOVEMBER 2022

T

F 1 8 15 22 29

F 4 11 18 25

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

DECEMBER 2022 S 5 12 19 26

S

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24 31

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

Area B JANUARY 2022 S 30 2 9 16 23

M 31 3 10 17 24

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

FEBRUARY 2022 S 1 8 15 22 29

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

MAY 2022 S 1 8 15 22 29

M 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

W 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23

T 3 10 17 24

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JUNE 2022 F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

S

M

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

SEPTEMBER 2022 S

T 1 8 15 22

MARCH 2022

F 2 9 16 23 30

W 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

S 30 2 9 16 23

M 31 3 10 17 24

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S

M

T

W

T

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JULY 2022 F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

S 31 3 10 17 24

OCTOBER 2022 S 3 10 17 24

T 1 8 15 22 29

APRIL 2022

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

M

T

W

T

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

AUGUST 2022 F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

S 7 14 21 28

NOVEMBER 2022 S 1 8 15 22 29

S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24

F 4 11 18 25

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

DECEMBER 2022 S 5 12 19 26

S

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24 31

Collection guidelines • Place the correct bins out by 6am and bring them in within 24 hours of collection.

• Check your bin weight. If you can’t easily wheel your bin to the kerb, or it weighs more than 40kg, then it’s probably too heavy to be collected.

• Your bin lid must be fully closed. Don’t overfill your bin as extra bags of rubbish will not be collected and you will be required to pick up any litter created due to the lid not being closed.

Summer 2021/2022 | 9

Recycle right this Christmas

Please DO NOT place the following items in your Council recycling bin:

Christmas is a great time to catch up with family and friends - which can often mean we accumulate more than our usual amount of waste.

But did you know that a lot of the packaging and wrap we use can be recycled.

It is important to remember that sorting and recycling can prevent tonnes of materials being sent to landfill unnecessarily, reducing the environmental impact.

Beyond the wrapping and packaging, there are other opportunities to reduce our waste, such as cutting up your live

Christmas tree at the end of the season and placing it in your organics waste bin.

Also, you could start a compost pile or worm farm, using your Christmas food scraps as a great source of compost fuel for your garden.

For more tips on recycling and composting, visit Council’s website.

Ceramics

Paper towel and tissues

Plastic bags

Waxed cardboard boxes

Pyrex glass and any broken glass

Light bulbs

Take your e-waste to a better place Do you have an old laptop, TV or mobile phone lying around the house or stashed in a room collecting dust?

There are options for recycling and disposing of electronic waste, including Council’s free e-waste recycling collection service, with drop-off events held throughout the year.

To help protect our environment and recover more precious resources, the Victorian Government has banned all e-waste from landfill. This means all electronic goods and devices (TVs, computers, mobile phones, hard drives, appliances and whitegoods) cannot be placed in any household general waste bin

On Call Hard Waste collections Residents are entitled to two on call hard waste collections each financial year for properties with a residential bin charge (this includes renters). You can book two separate single collections or one double collection. Make sure you’ve booked your collection before you place your waste on the naturestrip, otherwise it is considered illegally dumped waste and you could be fined.

There are three ways to make a booking for collection the following week: • Book online before 8pm Thursday • Call 1300 88 22 33 or use our live chat function on our website before 12 noon Friday • Visit one of Council’s service centres before 12 noon Friday Be sure to book your collection and do not place your collection out until the weekend prior to the week of your booking. Please keep your pile neat and tidy, only place acceptable materials out for collection and stick to the size limit.

For more information visit our On call hard rubbish collection web page.

Join the Compost Revolution Composting is a great way to keep food waste out of your landfill bin while also producing a rich fertiliser for your garden and pot plants.

Maroondah City Council

10 | Maroondah news

or recycling bin. Instead it must be taken to an e-recycling facility or drop-off point or you can book in for a hard waste collection.

Electronic items contain valuable non-renewable materials such as tin, nickel, zinc, aluminium, copper and small amounts of precious metals. In fact, 98 per cent of the components in a computer or TV can be fully recycled.

These items also contain hazardous materials which, if not disposed of properly, pose considerable environmental and health risks.

We are offering residents up to 60% off a range of home composting and worm farming systems through Council’s Compost Revolution program. Each Maroondah residential property is eligible for one subsidised system per year. To access the discount, visit www.compostrevolution.com.au/ maroondah. So, start today and join the Compost Revolution.

Household chemical collection The ‘Detox your Home’ mobile collection service is administered by Sustainability Victoria. It allows you to dispose of unwanted household chemicals for free.

The collected items are recycled and do not go to landfill. Events are held all across Melbourne throughout the year.

You must register for these collections online at www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ detoxyourhome or call 1300 363 744.

Waste Education Program Learn something new in 2022 and come along to one of our community waste education events.

No waste cooking webinar Thursday 3 February | 7pm to 8pm Online event Did you know that 20% of food purchased

by Australian households ends up in the bin?

CityofMaroondah

There are several privately-run transfer stations in and around Maroondah that will take e-waste. TVs and computers can also be taken to an industry-run recycling drop-off point for free under the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme. Household batteries and mobile phones can be dropped off for free at one of Council’s customer service centres.

To find e-waste collection services near you, visit Council’s website or call 1300 88 22 33.

Would you like to learn how to reduce your food waste? Come along to this workshop to find out how you can effectively meal plan, store your food to maximise freshness and use up your leftovers? All the while saving you time and money.

Composting forum Thursday 17 February | 6.30pm to 7.30pm Online event Learn how to keep your organics waste out of landfill. Discover what composting, worm farming and Bokashi are all about at this online forum. If you are just starting out or you’re already composting and it is not working the way you thought it should then this forum is the perfect place to have your questions answered and to find out how easy it is keep organic waste out of landfill.

Places are limited, and bookings are essential. To book your place, visit the www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/Residentsproperty/Waste-rubbish/School-andcommunity-waste-education or call 1300 88 22 33.

We can also come talk rubbish and recycling with your school or community group. To find out more visit our school and community waste education web page for more details.

maroondahcitycouncil

Maroondah City Council

Join the fun at Croydon Memorial Pool As we head into the warmer months, there’s no better place to cool off than at Croydon Memorial Pool, with its pool season open until Sunday 2 April 2022.

Lap swimmers have been making the most of the 50-metre outdoor heated pool since its earlier-than-usual season opening in late October in response to the Victorian Government’s roadmap to reopening.

Whether it’s taking a refreshing dip in the 50-metre outdoor heated pool, getting a group of friends or your family together for a picnic on the poolside lawn, or learning to swim with one of Council’s friendly AUSTSWIM accredited swim instructors, Croydon Memorial Pool has plenty of space and shade - to lap it up or just make a splash.

Best of all, you don’t need to be a Maroondah Leisure member to enjoy all that Croydon Memorial pool has to offer, with casual entry fees giving you the flexibility to choose. You can even purchase a season pass, which entitles you to unlimited access to the pool as well as low-impact aqua aerobics classes on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

For information on casual swim session rates, purchasing a season pass and pool operating hours, visit www.maroondahleisure.com.au or phone 9294 5630.

Summer spells fun with Maroondah Leisure School holiday programs at Maroondah Leisure are a super fun way to keep your child active, entertained, up-skilled and social during the school holidays.

Basketball holiday program at The Rings Your child can get a great start in basketball in one of our popular junior basketball programs over the January school holidays, with sessions tailored to children aged 5 to 12 years. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action!

and recreation no matter the weather conditions outside. The centre’s play area is a great option for families, while the leisure pool offers a variety of programs and activities including swim lessons. Did we mention the beach-style entry pool?

The school holiday program is being offered from 17 to 21 January and provides an ideal way for children to get into basketball with expert coaches in an air-conditioned and safe environment. Your child will learn to play in a team, develop aerobic fitness, learn basketball skills and, of course, have fun!

For those who prefer to hang poolside on lush shaded lawn areas, the outdoor Croydon Memorial Pool is where it’s at for family fun and the perfect spot to cool off on those extra hot days. Grab your picnic rug, swimming gear and enjoy all that the facility has to offer including lap swimming, leisure and toddler pools.

There’s also a kiosk. Watch for those inflatables that pop up when the mercury hits above 30 degrees!

Registrations now open at www.maroondahleisure.com.au

Swing into golf

Take the plunge at our three aquatic facilities

Tee off for 9 or 18 holes, improve your swing and handicap, and learn to play golf at either one of Maroondah Leisure’s golf courses - Ringwood Golf and Dorset Golf in Croydon.

From thrilling indoor waterslides, interactive aquatic playgrounds and outdoor heated pools, there’s no shortage of fun to be had at Maroondah Leisure’s aquatic facilities these school holidays.

Aquanation at Ringwood offers two large waterslides; Skybox (an adrenaline-inducing drop slide) and Twister (a fast and loopy tunnel slide) that will have young thrill-seekers coming back again and again.

The facility also has a range of aquatic opportunities for people of all ages and abilities including lap swimming, children’s splash play, diving platform, learn to swim pool and warm water pool.

Aquahub in Croydon is a year-round facility where swimmers can enjoy water sport

PGA golf pro, Darren Rowland, runs private individual golf lessons, group clinics, junior programs and programs for people with special needs at Ringwood Golf, in the undercover and outdoor teaching facilities and practice greens.

Dorset Golf offers private golf lessons as well as beginners/seniors/women’s clinics run by our PGA professional Zak Ginevra.

There are also golfing and social activities for members (men, women and juniors) regardless of age, skill level or physical ability. In January both Dorset Golf and Ringwood Golf are running school holiday programs.

For timetables and bookings, visit www.maroondahleisure.com.au or phone 1300 88 22 33.

Maroondah Nets Maroondah Nets has a range of sportsbased programs to keep your children entertained and active during the school holidays, all while making new friends and having fun. Our programs can also maintain your children’s skills between term sports and are suitable for all abilities, from ages 5 to 12.

The Netball School Holiday Program provides your child with the opportunity to develop skills with high-level coaches, and improve strength, speed, agility and balance through skills sessions and match play. The program is being run from 19 to 21 January 2022.

All registrations can be made at the www.maroondahleisure.com.au or call 9298 4487.

Summer 2021/2022 | 11

Free, safe and reliable immunisation service Families in Maroondah can access their scheduled immunisation at no cost to protect babies and children against infectious diseases as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Immunisation sessions cover the immunisation schedule for babies and children aged between six weeks and four years, as well as for adolescents and adults.

Victorian Government legislation (No Jab, No Play) requires that all children be fully vaccinated before enrolling for childcare and kindergarten, unless they have a medical exemption.

Immunisation is the best defence against the return of highly contagious diseases such as polio, measles, rubella and whooping cough.

The protection provided by some childhood immunisations fades over time so it’s important they are continued during adolescence.

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

To attend a session, bookings will need to be made online via Council’s website where you can select the venue of your choice.

For further information, contact Council’s immunisation team on 1300 88 22 33 or visit our website.

Tarralla Ward

Victorian Government legislation requires that children continue to meet immunisation requirements before enrolling for childcare, kindergarten and primary school.

Wicklow Ward

Your Councillors

McAlpin Ward

Secondary school students are at an age when vaccine will be most effective and provide protection before possible exposure to a disease. Recommended vaccines are routinely provided free of charge to all Victorian secondary school students under the National Immunisation Program.

Cr Suzy Stojanovic Cr Paul Macdonald Mobile: 0429 916 094 Mobile: 0436 001 760 suzanne.stojanovic@maroondah.vic.gov.au paul.macdonald@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Tasa Damante Mobile: 0438 704 819 tasa.damante@maroondah.vic.gov.au

What a busy few weeks we’ve had in the ward! Our much-anticipated playspace at McAlpin Reserve is now open - just in time for those outdoor Christmas party catch-ups. It’s great to see so many families come together again and explore the new equipment as well as the new pathways and bridge over the waterway.

It’s exciting to see the new carpark in Devon Street, Croydon completed and ready for our community to use, in time for the Christmas and summer months.

Providing 400 free carparks for people visiting the Croydon Main Street and other shops and services in the Croydon town centre, as well as for commuters using the rail and bus public transport.

While you’re out and about, see if you can spot one of our new public artworks which are decorating seven signal boxes across Maroondah.

It has been exciting to see works continuing on the Reimagining Tarralla Creek project. Stage one of the project, which covers an area from Norton Road to Vinter Avenue, is nearing completion.

The bridge has been installed and planting along the banks of the creek and in the wetland areas is well underway.

The creation of new revitalised wetland areas will increase the biodiversity in the area and provide much needed habitat for our local animals and plants. There The designs have all been created by will even be a bird hide where you will be local artists with the theme of celebrating able to sit and observe the wildlife in their our local culture. Two of the designs were natural environment. also featured as part of the Postcards While walking along the creek you will also of Kindness project, aimed at spreading be able to enjoy the various art and cultural kindness by writing a personalised installations. I look forward to seeing this message on a postcard and giving them project completed in the coming months. to family, friends, neighbours and local Keep an eye on Council’s website for more businesses. information.

12 | Maroondah news

This project is one of many initiatives taking place in Croydon that will benefit our community over the coming years. We are progressing our plans for the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct and working closely with the Level Crossing Removal Authority to plan and implement the removal of the level crossing at Coolstore Road, as well as develop a new Croydon railway station and bus interchange.

I look forward to bringing you further news on these important projects next year.

New Victorian State electoral boundaries Your electorate may have changed, even if your address has not.

The Electoral Boundaries Commission (EBC) has released new Victorian State electoral boundaries, following consultation with the Victorian community.

The new boundaries will come in to effect at the next Victorian state election in November 2022. For some people, the electorate they have previously voted in may change, even though you have not changed address. The boundary changes mean that the electorates of Croydon, Ringwood and Warrandyte now encompass the whole of Maroondah. The northern section of the current Bayswater

Did you know?

electorate has moved to be part of either the Ringwood or Croydon electorates. This means that Heathmont will now be in the Ringwood electorate and Kilsyth South and Baywater North will now be in the Croydon electorate. Portions of Ringwood North will now be in the Warrandyte electorate.

The Victorian Electoral Commission encourages all Victorians to check their electorate in the lead up to the next State election. You can sign up to the VEC’s Voter Alert to receive an SMS or email about important electoral activities on the VEC website at www.vec.vic.gov.au

The Australian Electoral Commission has completed a review of the Federal electoral divisions in Victoria. This means that from July 26, 2021 there are new electoral boundaries for the seat of Deakin, which now encompasses the whole of Maroondah.

More information can be found at www.aec.gov.au

Carparks update

Located on Council-owned land in Devon Street, between the station and Main Street shopping precinct, this carpark will be open in mid December. With 400 carparks, including disability parking and electric vehicle charging stations, the new facility caters for people visiting the Croydon Main Street and other shops and services in the Croydon town centre, as well as for commuters using the adjacent public transport.

Entry and exit is from Devon Street, near the corner of Main Street. Parking is free and the operating hours are Sunday to Thursday 6am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 6am to midnight.

If you’re looking to take up a new interest or pursue your creative calling, now’s the time to browse the latest version of the Wyreena Community Arts Centre Term 1 brochure.

Each term, Wyreena offers a range of short and ongoing course in the creative arts. Courses cater for people of all ages and abilities in a variety of art forms, including painting and drawing, pottery, sculpture, mosaics, relaxation classes and much more.

Council continues to progress the project timelines and activity for the Australian Government funded Activity Centre carparks in Croydon, Ringwood, Heathmont and at Heatherdale Station.

Croydon

New year, new skills at Wyreena

Devon Street Carpark

Heathmont Feedback from community consultation will inform and progress the development of schematic designs for the building and landscape designs for the adjacent VicTrack land and adjoining FJC Rogers Reserve. In the meantime, the project team has prepared a planning permit application which will be processed and considered independently by the Statutory Planning Department in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987, which among other actions requires public notification of the proposal.

Ringwood and Heatherdale Early design works and feasibility investigations are continuing for the Ringwood site, located at 1A Bedford Road, adjacent to the Ringwood Station and bus interchange. Keep an eye on Council website for more information in early 2022. The site location for the Heatherdale carpark is due to be finalised with construction expected to start in early 2022.

New classes for 2022 include classical oil painting and a digital painting using the ipad. There is also a course designed to cater for adults with a disability. The enterprise skills - mixed media art and craft class will teach skills in various mediums including abstract painting, card making, 3D art and jewellery making.

Wyreena also provides activities to keep children entertained over the school holidays.

To find out more or for a copy of Wyreena’s latest brochure, visit Wyreena at Hull Road, Croydon or download a copy on Council’s website.

Did you know?

The Wyreena Arts Lounge is a vibrant exhibition space featuring work by local artists in a casual setting. So you can grab a coffee and wander the lounge to peruse the artworks. From 9 February to 2 April the featured artists are Di Ellis and Barry Kearny.

Summer 2021/2022 | 13

Outdoor dining and trading regenerates precincts Council continues to work closely with Maroondah businesses and the hospitality industry to revitalise our local shopping strips as they continue their recovery from the pandemic.

The temporary outdoor dining and activation program has proven a lifeline for many, as it has supported businesses to expand their dining and table service into outdoor areas. By taking part in the program, businesses have not only welcomed back customers, but they are helping to bring our precincts back to life.

Allowing for outside activation will play a key role in our economic recovery and Council is working hard to provide flexibility for businesses as we continue to transition to a COVID normal.

To be eligible for a Street Activities Extension Permit, businesses must have

Wombolano Ward

Wonga Ward (vacant)

a COVIDSafe plan and be a registered business within Maroondah. Once a permit is issued, Council will continue to work with businesses to help with the installation of safety equipment, such as bollards.

To find out if your business is eligible or for more information, visit the Street Activities Extension Permit page on Council’s website, or phone 1300 88 22 33.

With the support of funding by the Victorian Government, Council is providing Street Activities Extension Permits for free until 30 June 2022.

Yarrunga Ward

Your Councillors

Wonga Ward Councillor, Nora Lamont has resigned from her role as a Councillor of the City of Maroondah, effective 6 December 2021.

Nora was first elected as a Councillor in the former Mullum Ward in November 2008. She served a full four year term, and was re-elected in 2012 and again in 2016.

Cr Kylie Spears Mobile: 0436 003 660 kylie.spears@maroondah.vic.gov.au For those who know me well, you know how much I love this time of year.

Christmas is such a magical time when we can all come together and celebrate with family and friends. I’m so pleased that we were able to host our Maroondah Carols event earlier this month, it was wonderful to see so many of our community come together to celebrate the occasion.

To help spread the Christmas spirit, this year we are also hosting the Light Up Maroondah Christmas house decorating competition.

If you haven’t already I encourage you to have a look at all of the entries on our website. You can then visit the decorated houses with your family and vote for your favourite in our People’s Choice Award.

Keep an eye on Council’s social media channels to find out who has won!

14 | Maroondah news

During this time Nora was elected Mayor in 2012, Maroondah’s second female Mayor since amalgamation in 1996. In 2016, Nora was elected the first Deputy Mayor for Maroondah, and the following year, she was once again elected Mayor for the 2017/18 term.

In October 2020, Nora was elected to the new Wonga Ward. In November 2020 she was elected Deputy Mayor for the first year of the new Council term.

The Victorian Electoral Commission has been notified of the Extraordinary Vacancy of Maroondah City Council, and is yet to advise the timeframes for the by-election.

Following the by-election by the Victorian Electoral Commission, the elected candidate will take up the remainder of the Council term through to the next election in October 2024.

Wonga Ward covers the suburbs of Ringwood and Ringwood North - including a portion of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre.

For all enquiries relating to Wonga Ward please call Council on 1300 88 22 33.

Cr Rob Steane - Deputy Mayor Mobile: 0407 519 986 rob.steane@maroondah.vic.gov.au It’s never been more important for young people to get out and about to enjoy some physical activity. To ensure that there’s plenty of things to keep them entertained Council is planning to construct two new purpose-built bike facilities in Maroondah.

During November, we undertook community consultation at Yarrunga Reserve. It was so nice to be able to talk to community members face to face. The young people we spoke to had some very creative ideas for the proposed facility and were happy to work with us on the design. I’m sure their involvement will mean we create jumps that will be well utilised by people of all ages.

Once completed the facility will cater for beginners and intermediate BMX and mountain bike users and will cover an area about the size of two tennis courts. Find out more on Council’s Your Say Maroondah website.

Maroondah youth workers available over holiday break Council will continue to support Maroondah’s young people and their families over the Christmas school holiday break.

Our qualified youth workers can help young people aged 10 to 25 years in the Maroondah area with a wide range of things, like becoming employment ready, family issues, getting involved in the community, connecting with mental health services, life skills, or if you’re just having a hard time.

If you’re looking for something to do over the holiday break, why not check out EV’s Hangout located at EV’s Youth Centre in Croydon. EV’s is a free drop-in centre providing a chilled-out space where young people can meet up with friends, access a quiet study space or enjoy youth-friendly activities every Thursday afternoon.

From music and event management training, connecting with your LGBTIQ+ youth community or help getting your driver’s licence, EV’s also has plenty of information and resources, with programs catering for ages 12 to 25.

The space is fully supervised by our team of qualified youth workers who are on hand should you want to speak to them in person about anything that’s on your mind.

EV’s is located at 212 Mt Dandenong Road, Croydon and is just a 6-minute walk from Croydon Station. EV’s is also wheelchair accessible.

For details, contact our Youth Services team on 9294 5704, email youth@maroondah.vic.gov.au or visit the website www.maroondahyouth.com.au or Facebook page www.facebook.com/ maroondahyouth

Community has their say on open space improvements The past few months has been busy in the engagement space, with the community asked to share their thoughts on multiple projects.

Earlier this month we were asking for feedback on the creation of a proposed BMX jumps facility at Yarrunga Reserve in Croydon Hills and on a proposed purposebuilt bike track at Evelyn Reserve in Ringwood North.

Thanks to the young people and community members that have shared their thoughts and ideas. We are now working with the feedback to determine the next steps for the projects.

We have also been consulting with the Croydon South community about the development of an Enhancement Plan for Woodland Park. The park has recently grown in size following Council’s acquisition of part of the former Croydon South Primary School site.

To keep up to date with these or to register for updates on the projects that interest you, simply sign up at www.yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au

New support service empowering region’s young people An online support service for the region’s young people is helping to connect them with the right information, programs and opportunities so that they can be empowered to reach their full potential.

ConnectUs is an improved service finder website (formerly No Wrong Door) providing an online directory of services, supports and programs available to young people aged 10 to 25 years in Maroondah, Knox and Yarra Ranges.

The directory contains information on health and wellbeing support; community groups and agencies; recreation options, education, housing, employment, and much more.

Do you belong to a group, organisation or service that provides health, wellbeing support, recreation or education programs for young people aged 10 to 25 years in Melbourne’s outer-east? If so, why not consider including your listing at www.connectus.serviceseeker.com.au

ConnectUs can be used by both young people and the people who support them, including parents, carers, schools and service providers.

For more information, contact the Maroondah Youth Service Provider Network (MYSPN) Coordinator on 9294 5721 or email myspn@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Summer 2021/2022 | 15

Dates for your diary

For more information about these, and other events, please visit Council’s website.

Julie Fenton, The Hug

Facets at ArtSpace Realm

IN and OUT: My Lockdown Experience

International Women’s Day Breakfast 2022

Until Sunday 23 January ArtSpace at Realm

Until Friday 28 January Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery

Wednesday 8 March Karralyka

Mimi Leung’s exhibition Facets is open in ArtSpace at Realm. Transforming the mundanity of our daily lives into a surreal, imaginative landscape, Mimi’s bold illustrative designs and manic characters can also be seen on the Realm windows and ArtWall, including new work inspired

by Ringwood. Add your own colour to Mimi’s colour-in mural wrapping around two of the ArtSpace walls.

Ringwood Art Society’s striking exhibition IN and OUT: My Lockdown Experience has opened in Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery. Visit the gallery before 28 January to explore beautiful landscapes and exquisite portraits and more, created by members of the society during the challenges of the pandemic. The exhibition is also available to view online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

Council is proud to again be hosting its annual International Women’s Day Breakfast event, which celebrates the contribution women make to workplaces, families and their communities. Bring a friend, make up a table, or simply come along to hear from inspiring guest speakers and enjoy an inspirational morning amongst friends.

Booking details will be made available on Council’s website closer to the date or phone 1300 88 22 33 for more information.

Karralyka set for stage in 2022 For over four decades, Karralyka has been dedicated to bringing world-class performances to the widest possible local audience, making arts and culture accessible to everyone.

The Theatre Season will be back with a bang in 2022 - so keep an eye on the Karralyka website for the official launch in February.

There will be many new and exciting performances and the online ticketing system and interactive seat map makes it even easier for you to choose your own seats and take a virtual tour of the stage from where your seats are!

In other exciting news, tickets for Karralyka’s 2022 Morning Music program are now on sale! In February we have theatre favourite Denis Walter, followed by the incomparable Teddy Tahu Rhodes in March.

Prior to each of the Morning Music performances Karralyka provide a complimentary morning tea in our function rooms complete with a range of sweet and savoury treats.

And for younger theatre-goers, Karrakids is back in 2022 with fun and interactive educational performances, which include free art and craft sessions prior to each show.

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.

So, if you’re looking for some fabulous high-quality musical and theatre entertainment, there’s no need to head for the city - it’s all here in Maroondah!

For all the latest shows and more, visit www.karralyka.com.au (Please be advised that dates for shows may be subject to change under COVID-19 restrictions).

This magazine is printed on FSC paper using certified mixed sources that is made with Elemental Chlorine Freepulps using Environmental Management system ISO 14001.

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.

Croydon Croydon Library, Civic Square, Croydon

Maroondah City Council

Realm 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station) CityofMaroondah

maroondahcitycouncil

Maroondah City Council