Maroondah News - Winter 2021 edition

Maroondah news Your community newsletter

Winter 2021

3 A look inside the 2021/22 Budget

16 Maroondah moves to sustainable energy

View Maroondah news online at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/MaroondahNews

19 Festival back

in the limelight

Mayor’s message Welcome to our Winter edition of Maroondah news. It’s pleasing to see that as a community we are continuing to support each other through the challenges of the ongoing pandemic. Over the past months we’ve shown great resilience and compassion, as we again faced uncertainty and disruption to our daily lives.

Thank you to all in our community for playing your part to keep our community safe by following the restrictions, getting vaccinated and continuing to be vigilant with personal hygiene.

Mayor, Councillor Kylie Spears

Council meetings Council meetings are generally held on the third Monday of each month.

The meetings are live-streamed via Council’s website.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions may result in the public gallery being closed. Please check Council’s website for updates.

Upcoming dates for 2021 are: Monday 16 August Monday 20 September Meetings start at 7.30pm and are held in the Council Chamber at Realm.

Council opening hours

On top of the COVID restrictions we were also hit with storms in June that caused almost unimaginable damage to parts of Victoria, including in Maroondah.

Many households were impacted by blackouts and experienced restricted access to essential services.

In Maroondah, many homes were without power for weeks. Emergency crews from Council, SES and other emergency services worked tirelessly to clear trees and debris from our roads, parks, reserves and those homes most impacted.

Council supported our community with services such as emergency housing, additional food waste collections, hot showers at Aquahub and wifi charging at Karralyka, Realm and Croydon Library.

In addition, many families, neighbours and community groups opened their doors to offer support, providing everyday essentials, equipment, food and power.

Our customer service centres are here to help. See our operating hours below or visit our website.

I’d like to thank everyone who helped, as in times of emergency, even the simplest gesture can mean the world to those who have been impacted.

Realm Service Centre Ringwood Town Square, 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station).

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm Open Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm

In this edition of Maroondah news, we take an in-depth look at the recently adopted 2021/22 Budget and Council Plan 2021-2025, as well as our modified walking sports sessions and annual street tree-planting program.

Croydon Service Centre Croydon Library, 5 Civic Square, Croydon Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Closed on all public holidays You can also contact us by: • phone 1300 88 22 33 or (03) 9298 4589 • email maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au • SMS 0480 020 200 • live chat via our website www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

In addition, you can find out more about current projects and asset improvement works that are important to our community.

The information provided in this newsletter was accurate at the time of print. For the latest information visit Council’s website.

Front page: Oliver and Philippa enjoying Nature Play week event at Barngeong Reserve, Croydon.

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Our BizWeek 2021 was a hit, featuring workshops and webinars. It was designed to equip business leaders with effective strategies during the recovery phase. Many businesses in response to the past 12 months have benefited greatly from the chance to learn from experts and industry professionals.

Recently, we’ve seen the exciting pop-up community space arrive in Croydon South, which was designed to increase vibrancy during the initial easing of restrictions.

Many in our community jumped at the chance to reengage and participate in programmed activities in a COVID-safe setting.

Our Be Kind campaign, has continued with many locals going above and beyond to help others. It’s important that we all continue to practice self-care, as well as look out for friends and family.

Our wonderful community will be the key towards leading our recovery locally.

If you or someone you know needs support, Council has many resources available, including Maroondah Connect, where residents can access a range of emotional, practical and social supports.

To find out more, visit Council’s website or call us on 1300 88 22 33.

Kind regards,

Councillor Kylie Spears Mayor

Keep in touch We are continuing to support and serve our community in the best way we can during these unprecedented times.

Our Customer Service team are available over the phone, on ‘live chat’ via our website, or you can send us a text message or email. Our website also has a number of ways you can stay in contact, make a request and report matters to Council.

Why not subscribe to our fortnightly e-newsletter, Maroondah News, to receive 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.

You can also stay in touch and interact with Council on a range of social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube).

We also welcome people to provide feedback on a range of activities, projects and documents in the planning via our Your Say Maroondah website - as COVID restrictions ease, we look forward to being able to undertake face to face engagement with our community in the coming months.

A look inside the 2021/22 Budget The recently adopted 2021/22 Budget will help us continue to deliver more than 120 services and programs, protect Council’s $1.87 billion in net community assets, deliver $48.25 million of extensive capital projects, and ensure Council’s financial sustainability.

The 2021/22 Budget and Council Plan 2021-2025 have been developed to align Council’s key strategies with priorities, needs and aspirations of the community.

Both documents will continue to focus on initiatives and programs that provide support to our community, including Council’s plan for recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Delivering vital community services

Priority actions

• Important Maternal and Child Health services delivered through eight centres across the municipality, including infant health checks and parent groups.

The Council Plan lists 37 priority actions to be undertaken by Council over the next four-year period from 2021/22 to 2024/25.

Significant projects identified for delivery include: • Implementation of the Maroondah COVID-19 Recovery Plan • Infrastructure upgrades to sporting facilities at Jubilee, Proclamation, Springfield, Cheong and Ainslie parks, and at Dorset Recreation and Silcock reserves.

• Finalise and implement the Maroondah Liveability, Wellbeing and Resilience Strategy 2021-2031 (incorporating the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan).

• Develop and implement the Waste, Litter & Resource Recovery Strategy.

• Design and construct activity centre carparks in Croydon, Ringwood and Heathmont; and at Heatherdale Station.

• Review, update and implement Council’s Sustainability; Climate Change Risk and Adaption, and Carbon Neutral strategies.

Did you know?

• A fully accredited immunisation service, which delivers more than 10,000 vaccinations annually, including for babies and children, both pre-school and school-aged.

• More than 250 hours of support provided annually to residents through the Maroondah Supported Residential Services program.

• Over 15,500 hours of Social Inclusion and Wellbeing programs for older residents and people with a disability.

• Services and programs for young people aged 10 to 25, including drop-in programs and support services.

• The creation and distribution of more than 40,000 Delivered Meals every year.

• Training and coordinating 90 school crossing supervisors who support safe passage to and from school and kindergarten at 74 school crossings across Maroondah.

Capital works highlights Council maintains $1.87 billion in assets on behalf of the community, including 510 buildings and structures, 433 parks, 47 bush reserves, 121 playgrounds, 475 kilometres of roads, 367 kilometres of stormwater drainage pipes and 600 kilometres of constructed footpaths.

Council has allocated $48.25 million in the 2021/22 Budget to ensure our assets continue to meet the current and future needs of our community.

These important and diverse projects include: • improving accessibility at our facilities • road sealing and reconstruction works • footpath replacement works • stormwater and drainage renewal • sportsfield resurfacing and lighting • playground renewals and bridge replacement works in our reserves.

Rates and charges spent per $100

Rates & charges

$99.2m 60.2%

User fees

$27.2m 16.5%

Operating grants

$8.4m

5.1%

Contributions monetary

$5.3m

3.2%

Statutory fees & fines

$4.9m

3%

Capital grants

$18.9m

11.5%

$0.9m

0.5%

$164.8m

100%

Total

These services are vital to the health and wellbeing of our community, and include:

Do you want to be more sustainable and cut down on your hard copy mail? Did you know you can now sign up to receive your rates or animal registration notices by email. To register for this service, all you need to do is visit Council’s website and create an account in our eNotices portal. For more information please call us on 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4589.

Total income

Other income (interest and rent)

Over the past few years, Council has received significant recognition for the innovative and quality services it delivers.

Leisure & Culture

$21.85

Capital Works

$24.08

$25.65

Environment

Transport & Access

$10.55 Community Support

$10.04

$7.83 City Development

Maroondah news | 3

COVID-19 community update The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for everyone in our community.

In response, Council developed a COVID-19 Recovery Plan, following extensive community engagement with more than 2800 responses received from community members.

The Plan identifies priority areas and actions on how we will support our community during the recovery.

Maroondah COVID-19 Recovery Plan Stronger together: our way forward from COVID-19

Many of the actions feature partnerships with community organisations. This includes within the areas of community health, family support, food relief and mental health. This is in addition to services already offered through Council.

The key to our recovery locally is ensuring there are systems in place that adapt to changing and emerging community needs and strengths.

For more information on available support services, please visit our website.

Do you need support?

Individuals, families and communities may find themselves in need of support and it can be daunting to ask for help. But it is ok to ask for help.

If you are feeling lonely or isolated or facing some difficulties our MaroondahConnect service can help you to access a range of emotional, practical and social support.

All you need to do is call Council during business hours on 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598; live chat on our website or send an email to maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au

BizWeek 2021 supporting businesses through challenging environment Our BizWeek2021 events proved to be a success, with hundreds of businesses taking up the opportunity to participate in the series of free and low-cost small business workshops.

Offered by experts and industry professionals, businesses were able to learn more fundamental skills, including how to develop a social media strategy, and staying up to date with changing business trends.

Our BizHub Maroondah team offer training sessions throughout the year, so visit www.bizhubmaroondah.vic.gov.au to find out how you can get involved.

Keep up to date with the latest COVID-19 updates For all the latest COVID-19 updates from the Victorian Government please regularly monitor www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au For updates on Council’s services visit our website or call 1300 88 22 33.

Please continue to play your part to keep our community safe. Closely follow the restrictions, check in everywhere and remain vigilant with personal hygiene.

Let’s Get Neighbourly, Maroondah!

As part of our Be Kind Maroondah campaign, Council has teamed up with Neighbourhood Connect and our local community houses to provide free workshops for people interested in making a difference in their neighbourhood.

The Let’s Get Neighbourly workshops have been a great way for residents to get to know their neighbours and strengthen the sense of community Maroondah is known for.

Research shows that people who connect and bond with their neighbours experience a greater sense of belonging. Social connection makes us feel better and can help prevent loneliness, isolation and depression.

The workshops are designed to help you develop the skills and confidence to engage with other people in your street and neighbourhood - it can be as simple as a wave, a chat over the fence, an online group, inviting a neighbour for a cup of tea or hosting a street activity.

Register to become a connector today by visiting our Let’s Get Neighbourly page on our website.

Let’s Get Neighbourly workshops are helping residents to connect with their local community.

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COVID-19 community health updates Maroondah vaccine clinic opens its doors Council has worked with EACH and Eastern Health to assist in the establishment of a COVID vaccination clinic for the region.

Located in the former civic offices at Braeside Avenue, Ringwood the hub opened its doors in March and will be in operation until the end of 2021.

With plenty of parking, the hub is close to bus and train public transport routes, and is a short walk from both Ringwood and Ringwood East stations.

Choosing to get vaccinated against COVID-19 will help keep you, your family and community safe. However, having a COVID-19 vaccination is a personal choice. It is important to talk to your doctor about your personal situation and any existing medical conditions to find out if vaccination is suitable for you.

For more information on getting vaccinated including locations, eligibility and how to prepare and what to expect, visit the Department of Health website at: www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Symptoms and testing Anybody can get COVID-19 if they have contact with a person who has the virus. If you have any of the below symptoms, however mild, you should seek advice and get tested.

• fever • chills or sweats • cough • sore throat • shortness of breath • runny nose • loss or change in sense of smell or taste.

Did you know?

A COVID vaccine is free for everyone living in Australia.

You do not need to have a Medicare card. You can book your COVID vaccination by phone on the Coronavirus hotline 1800 675 398 or use the online booking system at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Using the Victorian Government QR code Checking in is the best way to stop the spread of coronavirus, and act fast to protect our businesses, communities, and each other.

The Victorian Government is asking everyone to download the Service Victoria App 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.

Why do I need to check-in?

When you check-in, you create a record of the time and date you visited a venue.

This means that if there is a COVID-19 outbreak, contact tracers can quickly contact you, if you’ve visited a public exposure site.

This will help to contain a COVID-19 outbreak.

The quickest way to check-in is to use the Service Victoria app. You can download the latest version of the Service Victoria app onto your smart phone from the App Store or Google Play.

For more information visit www.service.vic.gov.au/check-in

To get further advice, call the 24-hour Coronavirus Hotline 1800 675 398 or your doctor.

The Victorian Government have a range of supports available, including a Test Isolation Payment that provides financial support while people self-isolate to wait for the results of a coronavirus (COVID-19) test.

For more information on support payments visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Get the App

Scan the QR code

The green tick = you’re checked in!

Translated information Translated information, including information about COVID-19 vaccines, is available on www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au To speak to someone in your language, call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 and select option 0. You can also request an interpreter be at your vaccine appointment.

Maroondah news | 5

Nominations open for Bill Australia Wilkins Volunteer Award Day award reminder Do you know a volunteer who is making a real difference in the community?

If so, now’s your chance to nominate them for the 2021 Bill Wilkins Volunteer Award.

Named in honour of community stalwart Bill Wilkins OAM, the award recognises those in our community who inspire and embody the spirit of volunteerism through their positive contribution to Maroondah.

Online nominations for Maroondah’s Australia Day awards are open until 5pm on Sunday 28 November.

The honour rewards community service at local level, recognising impactful contributions to the local community over many years.

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

Categories are: • Young Citizen of the Year • Citizen of the Year • Community Event of the Year

Nominations close Sunday 26 September 2021. The winner of the prestigious volunteer service award will be announced in December.

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

You can nominate online or by filling in a hardcopy form available at a customer service centre.

2020 recipient Dr Graeme Lorimer with Bill Wilkins

More details at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au

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 Mobile: 0436 002 080 mike.symon@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Practising self-care and being mindful about your personal wellbeing has never been more important.

In Maroondah, we believe all young people deserve the opportunity to shine and be acknowledged. For example, we recently said ‘thank you’ to our local young people at our Maroondah Youth Awards.

Maroondah, like most areas in Melbourne, has experienced severe storm events in relatively close succession over the past decade, most recently in June.

Your Councillors

Barngeong Ward

Do you know an outstanding citizen deserving of recognition?

As part of our recovery from the ongoing pandemic, Council has partnered with Communities of Wellbeing and the Wellbeing Lab to offer a unique program that is designed to improve overall wellbeing in our community.

We are supporting local community leaders to complete a Certificate in Creating Wellbeing. Participants come from a cross-section in our community, and are in the position to influence wellbeing in their own environment. The 14-week program involves participants undertaking their own community wellbeing activities. You can visit Council’s website for more details on this project.

6 | Maroondah news

We also acknowledge that many young people face adversity in their lives, which is why we provide a range of services and programs.

So, I encourage our young people to consider trying a sports activity, or something completely new like the youth theatre or a music group - or dropping into our EV’s Youth Centre. There are so many opportunities to connect and be supported. Visit the Maroondah Youth website for more information on the range of activities and support available.

In the Jubilee Ward, major rehabilitation and drainage works are underway in New Street, Ringwood, from Maroondah Highway to Sylvia Grove.

The works involve upgrading the stormwater drainage pipes and increasing the pit capacity so that more rain water can be captured. We are also reconstructing and raising the footpath on the western side of New Street and at the Molan Street intersection to prevent overland flows.

Visit the project page on Council’s website for more information on the New Street rehabilitation and drainage works.

Shining a light on Maroondah’s young achievers This year’s Maroondah Youth Awards saw 117 exceptional young people recognised for their contribution to the community.

Council’s Maroondah Youth Awards is an annual event that recognises the many talents, contributions and achievements of young people aged 10 to 25 in Maroondah.

young people working hard towards a future career, and those who have displayed resilience in overcoming personal or physical adversity.

The awards presentation evening was held on 21 April at Karralyka, and recognised young recipients across four categories.

The Leadership Award included an impressive pool of young people who display leadership qualities through their advocacy work and by taking on leadership roles at school or in their community.

Creativity Award recipients included talented young people from the world of music, dance, acting and visual arts. The Perseverance Award recognised newly arrived refugees,

The Teamwork Award went to an impressive array of projects being

Recipients of the 2021 Maroondah Youth Awards

undertaken by young people, including Maroondah’s Youth Wellbeing Advocates.

Promoting diversity through the arts A range of creative arts projects will be rolled out over the next 12 months thanks to more than $23,294 allocated under Council’s 2021/22 Arts and Cultural Grants Funding Scheme.

Among this year’s successful initiatives is a community performance developed to amplify lesser-heard voices of Maroondah to the broader community; an exhibition and public program of stories told through Australian sign language, Auslan, and which promotes social inclusion; and a thought-provoking outdoor performance by local production group, Fresh Theatre for Social Change.

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

Funding is offered annually to artists or 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 Council’s website.

Did you know?

Council’s art collection contains a wide range of paintings, prints and ceramics by Australian artists from colonial times to the present, including works by Indigenous artists and a growing selection of contemporary painters.

Grant funding supporting community Sixty Maroondah community groups have benefited from more than $167,400 in funding to support important local projects and programs as part of Council’s 2021/22 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.

allocated to emergency relief, mental health programs, and programs that support children, youth, seniors and disability groups.

opportunities to support positive ageing; and programs helping settlement of newly arrived migrants are among other projects to be funded.

The funding supports incorporated, not-for-profit community groups who are developing programs, projects and events which make a positive contribution to the Maroondah community.

Winter Shelter is one of this year’s beneficiaries, receiving a grant for its program that provides emergency food, shelter and wellbeing support for those experiencing homelessness.

For more on Maroondah’s Community Grants Funding Program, visit Council’s website.

This year’s recipients come from a broad range of community groups, with a significant amount of funding being

A program to promote active participation in community sport for people with a disability; community learning

Applications for the 2022/23 grants will open in March 2022.

Maroondah news | 7

Giving thanks to our incredible seniors Please join us this October as we celebrate the seniors in our municipality.

The 2021 Maroondah Seniors Festival celebrates positive and healthy ageing throughout the month of October. The Festival is run in conjunction with the Victorian Seniors Festival and is an opportunity to pay tribute to and acknowledge the importance and value of our older residents.

Held in October each year, the event is an opportunity for Maroondah residents aged 65 years or over, 50 years or over for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples to find out what activities and community groups are readily available.

Celebration Day We are once again hosting our Festival Day at Karralyka on Tuesday 5 October.

The popular event presents an opportunity for any Maroondah resident over 65 to chat with like-minded people, while enjoying a meal and a chance to reconnect with the community.

The Seniors Wellbeing Expo will highlight services available to seniors, while the talented Me ‘n Me Mates will keep the room entertained with their uniquely Australian style of singing and storytelling.

The Festival aims to celebrate and value our older residents, who have given and shared their skills, experience, time and energy to their community.

This will be a COVID-safe event and will implement any COVID-19 requirements in place at the time. To find out more, visit Council’s website.

Staying fit has never been easier!

Are you keen to get back into sport but perhaps not feeling quite as sprightly as you used to?

Why not check out our modified sports program for those aged over 50.

If you’ve never heard of walking sports before, it’s pretty much what it sounds like. Popular sports like football, cricket and netball which have been modified to encourage a gentler way to stay active.

As with any physical activity, benefits include improved mental health, coordination and flexibility. Also, modified sports are a great chance to meet like-minded, friendly faces in an inclusive setting. Catching up after the game for a tea or coffee is also highly recommended.

So, what modified sports are available?

There are plenty of options, so you can hit the ground walking!

Walking football Thursdays from 10am to 12noon at the John Frost Stadium (Cheong Park, corner of Eastfield and Bayswater Roads, Croydon).

Cost: $5 per session, or free for U3A members.

Walking cricket Tuesdays from 1.30pm to 2.30pm at Saxon Sports (Unit 7, 37-51 Lusher Road, Croydon).

Cost: $5 per session, or free for U3A members.

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Pickleball

Walking netball

Pickleball is essentially a combination of tennis, badminton and table-tennis - which is played on a badminton-sized court with a solid paddle and a plastic ball. A game takes between 10 to 25 minutes to play.

Mondays from 10am to 11am at Maroondah Nets (HE Parker Reserve, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont).

Mondays from 10am to 12noon at Maroondah Nets (HE Parker Reserve, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont) Cost: $5 per hour

Did you know?

Cost: $5 per session.

For more details on our modified sports program contact Council’s Active & Healthy Ageing Coordinator on 1300 88 22 33 or visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au.

We have many clearly signed walking circuits, which have varied lengths and link to local landmarks including schools, shops and other community facilities. Routes are available to view on our website.

School crossings protecting our children and families With schools returning for Term 3, it’s important that all road-users are vigilant during peak drop off and pick up times.

In Maroondah we have 74 school crossings and 90 dedicated supervisors, who brave all weather conditions to ensure the safety of children as they cross roads to and from school.

Parking and traffic controls around schools play an important part in keeping children safe. They ensure the crossing supervisor has a clear field of vision and can identify hazards in all traffic conditions.

Traffic and parking around schools needs to be managed carefully and all road-users have a role to play to ensure supervisors can do their important job.

Consider your role in crossing safety • When the flags are displayed at a children’s crossing, you must stop for pedestrians who are waiting to cross or who have started crossing.

• You must remain stopped until the crossing is clear.

• These rules apply even if there is no crossing-supervisor.

• Do not stop your car over the school crossing.

• Be aware of your surroundings and speed limit when driving near schools and remember to park safely at all times.

Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct: Working towards a connected community The Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct redevelopment project is beginning to take shape with works progressing on Hub B, which will accommodate existing user groups while Hub A is being constructed.

The transformation of the existing Civic Precinct into the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct will focus on delivering enhanced and functional community spaces that will incorporate wellbeing facilities, family and children hubs, sport and recreation spaces, and open space.

Following extensive engagement with user groups, key stakeholders and the local community, the masterplan was endorsed by Council in June 2020.

The feedback we received from our community has been incorporated into the masterplan and will guide the design of the hubs, ensuring that the facilities will meet the needs of the community, both now and well into the future.

An artist’s impression of the new precinct that will create opportunities for social connection, improved health and wellbeing, and linkages to Croydon’s cultural heritage.

The first community hub, will be home to the Croydon Library, and a variety of new and existing community groups and organisations.

Through the various development stages, we will continue to work with our key user groups and community to ensure the rich history, culture and

unique ‘village’ feel of Croydon is not only retained but enhanced.

To view the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct masterplan and to stay up-to-date with project works, visit the Your Say Maroondah website.

Maroondah news | 9

Wyreena: A great place to learn Do you want to meet new people while developing new creative skills? Then make sure you browse the Wyreena Community Arts Centre Term 3 brochure.

Each term, Wyreena offers a range of short and ongoing courses 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.

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

To find out more visit Wyreena at Hull Road, Croydon or download a brochure at www.artsinmaroondah.com.au

Did you know?

Wyreena Community Arts Centre offers a School Holiday Program during the Easter, June and September holidays.

Tarralla Ward

Wicklow Ward

Cr Suzy Stojanovic Mobile: 0429 916 094 suzanne.stojanovic@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Paul Macdonald Mobile: 0436 001 760 paul.macdonald@maroondah.vic.gov.au

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

I love how Maroondah unites to support each other. This has been highlighted over the past 18 months as we have relied more heavily on our friends and neighbours.

During this challenging period, to encourage more people to support our local businesses, Council has created a temporary pop-up space at Eastfield shops.

Council has been seeking ways we can work with our community to break down barriers and create positive change.

The shopping centre in Croydon South is part of Council’s 20-minute neighbourhood pilot project. The Victorian Government launched the pilot projects in 2018 to encourage people to ‘live locally’.

Supporting families and their child’s early development is one of the most important roles of Council. In Maroondah, we are fortunate to have eight Maternal and Child Health centres.

Your Councillors

McAlpin Ward

Through the Let’s Get Neighbourly Program, we have partnered with Neighbourhood Connect and our local community houses to run free workshops.

This program will help participants learn how to become a community connector.

Let’s Get Neighbourly program sessions are running throughout the year at our Community Houses including Parkwood Community Hub. Please visit Council’s website or your local community house to find out more.

10 | Maroondah news

Over the past few months, the vibrant pop-up space has hosted many events and activities. Still to come on Sunday 25 July is a Christmas in July art and craft market.

I encourage you to head down to Eastfield shops and check out the pop-up park. Visit Council’s website to find out more.

These services include early-parenting programs, first-time parent groups, baby-settling programs and more. Earlier this year, we expanded our services to include a fit-for-purpose facility at Eastland.

I would like to remind parents of the importance of visiting our nurses for the key age and stage check-ups from birth to four years old. These appointments help parents navigate their child’s transition to kindergarten and school-readiness.

Visit Council’s website for more information on our MCH services or contact Council on 1300 88 22 33.

Maroondah branches out with 3500 new street trees Maroondah’s tree canopy is benefiting thanks to Council’s annual planting program.

Approximately 3500 new street trees, including native eucalypts, acacias and bottlebrushes and a selection of exotic species (crepe myrtles, maples and oaks) will be planted across the municipality.

pollutants, creating shade, and providing food and protection for birds and other wildlife. Research also shows that trees in urban environments can improve a person’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Thousands of trees, shrubs and grasses are planted annually throughout the city, either in place of plants that have reached the end of their life cycle, or to build on our leafy environment.

Where possible, Council plants indigenous species to ensure longevity of existing plant and wildlife populations.

Urban trees provide many benefits to our community, such as filtering

If you would like to request a street tree be planted in front of your property, please call Council on 1300 88 22 33 or visit our website for more information.

Ensuring longevity of our green assets To ensure public safety and long-term health of trees across Maroondah, Council undertakes regular tree pruning and maintenance.

Council is also out and about throughout the year pruning nature strip trees to ensure they are clear from powerlines, roads and footpaths as part of Council’s Electrical Line Clearance Management Plan and Road Management Plan, both in accordance with relevant Victorian Government Acts.

While pruning can sometimes appear drastic, it is necessary to prolong the lifespan of trees and ensure that they are healthy throughout all seasons.

For more on Council’s annual tree maintenance program, visit our website.

L2P mentors hold keys to unlocking potential Volunteers are an indispensable asset for our community and again we are seeking your assistance.

We need volunteer mentors to assist disadvantaged learner drivers aged 16 to 21 to gain the 120 hours driving experience required to apply for a probationary licence.

Young people involved in the program come from various backgrounds. They may have left home or be away with study. They could be living in residential homes or have parents who cannot drive.

Obtaining a Driver’s Licence can be a life-changing experience for a young person.

Mentors in Maroondah come from a range of backgrounds and ages currently from 25 to 88 - and receive support before and during the program.

Council has been involved with the program since 2015, so far supporting 72 young people in their journey to obtain a licence.

A licence can mean independence, self-confidence and even the difference between whether they can gain employment.

Through the TAC L2P program in Maroondah, in addition to being matched with a mentor, learners can access up to seven free driving lessons with a professional instructor.

The program aims to develop young people into safe, confident drivers.

Before being paired with a volunteer mentor, the young person learning to drive has lessons with professional instructors.

Council provides training and support to all supervising drivers, while lessons will be held in a Maroondah TAC L2P vehicle.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the L2P program in Maroondah

Mentors need to meet the following criteria: • Be over 21 years old • Hold a full Victorian driver’s licence • Can commit to at least one hour per week For more information, and to register, please visit the Careers@Maroondah page on the Maroondah Council website.

If you have any questions, connect with us on Facebook, call 9294 5723 or email us at L2P@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Maroondah news | 11

Waste and recycling

2021 Maroondah Waste and Recycling Guide The following information will help you to better use your waste services, including: • 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

12 | Maroondah news

ü ü

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

The world of waste There are lots of ways you can reduce your waste and make wiser choices when disposing of items. Below are some of the services and programs offered by Council to support our community to recycle more and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.

Join the Compost Revolution Composting at home is a great way to keep organic waste out of landfill and there are lots of different ways that you can do it at home. We are offering residents up to 60% off the purchase of a range of at home composting systems, plus free delivery.

Each Maroondah residential property is eligible for one subsidized system each year. To get your discounted system visit the Compost Revolution website and search for Maroondah.

Bin Inspection education Program 1 metre deep

1 metre high 2 metres long

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 a single or double collection. Make sure you have 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 contact our Customer Service team via our live chat before 12 noon Friday • Visit one of Council’s service centres before 12 noon Friday.

Waste Education Program Council offers a range of workshops and events that help provide the community with knowledge about reducing your waste and contributing to a sustainable environment.

Schools and community groups within the Maroondah area are also offered free waste education sessions. These sessions can be delivered online or onsite and there are a range of different topics available to choose from. For further information visit Council’s website.

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.

As part of Council’s waste education program, during May we have conducted visual inspections of household recycling and garden organics bins. The visual inspections of bins allows us to provide households with feedback on their waste disposal behaviours and gather contamination data for targeted education campaigns.

Contamination means there’s something in the bin that doesn’t belong there. When the wrong thing is placed in the bin it has a big impact on our collection and recycling process. Incorrect materials can damage trucks and machinery, endanger drivers and workers at the Material Recovery Facility and increases the cost to provide the service to our community.

All households whose bins have been inspected received feedback on whether the items in the bin were correct. If everything in the bin was acceptable, a blue star for recycling and a green star for garden organics was placed on the bin. If there was a small amount of unacceptable material, a sticker identifying the unacceptable material was placed on the bin. Where a bin was majority contamination, or had a hazardous material in it, the bin was rejected and had its lid stickered shut.

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

To find out more about our bin inspection program, please visit Council’s website.

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Maroondah news | 13

Maroondah libraries more popular than ever, new figures show With more than 89,000 memberships, Maroondah’s libraries are proving more popular than ever, despite the challenges faced during COVID-19 restrictions.

Eastern Regional Library Corporation (ERLC) regional 2020/21 year-to-date figures show Realm library is still ranked number one when it comes to membership (58,034), while Croydon continues to outperform all when it comes to library loans (146,768).

Maroondah has two public libraries, Realm Library in Ringwood and Croydon Library.

Both libraries are managed by ERLC, which also provides library services to Knox and Yarra Ranges Councils.

There are currently 89,162 Realm and Croydon Library members, thanks to the more than 10,000 new members who have signed up - making them the busiest branches in the ERLC. Figures show memberships for Maroondah library services have

Eastern Regional Libraries is a co-operative venture of outer-eastern metropolitan councils - Maroondah, Knox and Yarra Ranges - serving a population of 435,000 residents across the three municipalities.

During the pandemic, Maroondah’s public libraries have continued to serve their communities. Digital resources such as e-Books, magazines and streaming platforms have meant libraries are still accessible.

ERL offers a host of downloadable resources for members that can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Members can browse from more

than 60,000 free eBook and eAudiobook titles for adults, teens and children, as well as eMagazines, board games, DVDs, music and more.

To become a member, visit the Eastern Regional Library website and follow the steps to sign up and get free access.

Library staff are available to answer questions and assist with enquiries over the phone on 1300 737 277 or visit www.yourlibrary.com.au

Wonga Ward

Yarrunga Ward

Cr Kylie Spears - Mayor Mobile: 0436 003 660 kylie.spears@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Nora Lamont - Deputy Mayor Mobile: 0428 394 581 nora.lamont@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Cr Rob Steane Mobile: 0407 519 986 rob.steane@maroondah.vic.gov.au

If you haven’t visited Ringwood East recently, I encourage you to head down and check out our new public art project, Dancing with Creation.

One of the highlights on the Maroondah calendar is our citizenship ceremonies.

For me, it’s a huge honour to witness so many people, from so many different countries, embracing Australia and Maroondah as their new home.

Now is the time to reignite the spark in our community and to support our municipality’s clubs and associations.

Your Councillors

Wombolano Ward

increased 12.84 per cent, while eLibrary loans have grown by more than 19 per cent compared to 2019/20.

We have been working with the Ringwood East Traders Association and Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place to enhance the laneway at 26 Railway Avenue, Ringwood East.

This is our opportunity for us to formally welcome them to Maroondah.

The project is aimed at bringing more people into the precinct, as well as highlighting our local Indigenous history.

The murals on a large wall, as well as planter-boxes, have completely transformed the streetscape.

We pride ourselves on ensuring these ceremonies are memorable, respectful and fitting of the life-changing commitment for those taking part. It is lovely to see people attending in their own national, traditional or cultural dress.

We hold around five ceremonies each year.

Visit Council’s website for more information on the project or the artists involved.

Visit Council’s website for more details on our citizenship ceremonies - or on how to apply to become an Australian citizen.

14 | Maroondah news

Whether you’re a volunteer, or just normally very active - I encourage you to get back out there. And if you’re looking for a new outlet, consider our many options to volunteer or participate. From our community houses to support groups.

From the University of the Third Age to the various Men’s Sheds, the Probus Club, or the Country Women’s Association.

Then, there are our first-class sporting facilities such as Aquanation and Aquahub - and our golf clubs, reserves and walking trails, which offer fun and health-benefits for all ages. I encourage you to get back out there. Get back into your community, re-connect and show your support.

Funded three-year-old kinder for Maroondah families in 2022 Funded three-year-old kindergarten is being introduced across Victoria as a new initiative to support young children to get the best start to their education.

From next year, as part of the Victorian Government’s Kindergarten Reform, every Victorian three-year-old will be able to access a minimum of five hours per week of subsidised three-year-old kindergarten, increasing up to 15 hours per week by 2029.

Children in Maroondah are eligible to attend a funded kindergarten program if they turn three or four years of age on or before 30 April in the year of attendance. Funded kindergarten means the government will help the kindergarten service with the cost of your child attending.

Research has shown that attending two years of quality kindergarten has great benefits, with children said to be more independent and confident and more likely to make a smoother transition to primary school.

Stand-alone kindergartens in Maroondah are part of the Maroondah Integrated Kindergarten Association (MIKA) central enrolment system, which is supported

by Council.

MIKA provides a central enrolment for both three and four-year-old groups, on behalf of its 22-member kindergartens.

To decide if your child is ready to start kindergarten, talk to your Maternal and Child Health nurse about your child’s health and wellbeing.

For information on enrolment, eligibility and for a list of kindergartens in Maroondah, search for ‘Kindergartens’ on Council’s website.

Stay connected and educated with community centres Maroondah is fortunate to have community centres that impact meaningfully on the lives of our community.

Through these centres, the work of many dedicated volunteers helps to combat social isolation, create inclusive spaces and provide the opportunity for people to learn from and support each other. Their efforts don’t go unnoticed and we encourage everyone to explore what they can offer.

From strengthening community connections, to helping people improve job skills and improving personal

wellbeing and self-confidence - they are responsive to community needs and are the pride of our municipality.

Community centres in Maroondah include: • Arrabri Community House • Central Ringwood Community Centre • Glen Park Community Centre • North Ringwood Community House • Yarrunga Community Centre.

Together, they offer a variety of educational and accredited courses and recreational activities. Their mission is united in seeking to create strong, connected and inclusive communities.

For more information on our community houses, visit the Learning Local in Maroondah website www.learninglocalinmaroondah.com.au

If you would like to talk to someone, identify local assistance or connect to your local community house, you can call the Outer East Chatline on 1800 984 825.

Positive parenting: information sessions supporting families Council provides regular information sessions for parents, guardians, carers and those working with young children in Maroondah to support families in their parenting journey.

The information sessions explore a range of strategies as well as providing parents and carers with current information and resources on various topics such as resilience, body safety, understanding adolescents, and encouraging confidence and self-esteem in children.

The sessions are provided free or at a low cost and are presented by well-regarded professionals in the sector.

For more information on the 2021 Parenting Information Sessions, visit Council’s website.

Maroondah news | 15

Home ground advantage: investing in the future of grassroots sport As a result of funding from the Australian Government, Victorian Government and Council, several significant projects have been recently completed or are under construction. For more updates or photos on these and other developments, visit the project pages on Council’s website.

$4.5m HE Parker sporting pavilion unveiled In April 2021, we marked the exciting completion of the new $4.5 million HE Parker sporting pavilion.

The new pavilion will support the anticipated growth of both the Heathmont Football and Cricket clubs, particularly with the increase of female junior and senior teams for football, and the introduction of a female cricket season. The facility is also home to Sport and Life Training (SALT) and will be utilised by the wider community.

The pavilion complements the recently renovated lighting and sportsfield upgrade, creating a first-class cricket and football facility in the heart of Heathmont.

The new-look HE Parker sporting pavilion.

In a first at Maroondah, Council used an off-site pre-fabricated construction method for the sporting pavilion, which allowed building works to be completed in a shorter timeframe and with minimal disruption to clubs.

The double-storey facility in HE Parker Reserve replaces the former 1960s clubrooms with a facility that now incorporates four female-friendly change rooms, a large multipurpose room and amenities, ensuring inclusiveness and all-abilities access.

The project was funded by $4 million from Council and $500,000 by the Australian Government, with the Victorian Government contributing $75,000 towards the fit-out.

$8m Dorset Recreational Reserve sports hub Works are underway on a new pavilion at Dorset Recreation Reserve as part of a multi-million-dollar enhancement of the reserve.

The new multipurpose community and sports hub will be home to Croydon City Soccer Club and Maroondah’s Burmese/ Myanmar community. The facility is being funded by Council with $2 million from the Australian Government and $2 million from the Victorian Government.

A major enhancement of Dorset Recreation Reserve will ensure the sporting precinct meets the future needs of our community.

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.

The works from 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.

Maroondah moves to sustainable energy As a member of the Victorian Energy Collaboration, Council has joined forces to form the largest emissions reduction project ever undertaken by the local government sector in Australia.

As part of this initiative 46 Victorian Councils have combined their electricity needs into one long-term contract for renewable energy generated from wind farms here in Victoria.

The VECO project doesn’t just benefit the environment – by joining together for the energy contract, each Council will be paying less for their power than if each Council had sourced their electricity individually.

Fast Fact 16 | Maroondah news

This is just one of the many ways that Council is working to reduce our carbon emissions. In 2020 Maroondah City Council was certified Carbon Neutral by Climate Active for our operations as a public statutory body.

One of the ways we’re achieving this is through environmentally sustainable design, including installing solar panels on some of our major facilities including Realm and Aquanation.

We are also upgrading our facilities with LED lighting and continuing our streetlight changeover rollout which has seen more than 6000 globes across Maroondah changed to more energy-efficient options.

To find out more about our sustainability initiatives visit our website.

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

RO Spencer Pavilion Jubilee Park

$3.5m Silcock Reserve pavilion redevelopment

Proclamation Park sporting pavilion redevelopment

RO Spencer Pavilion redevelopment works have begun as part of the Jubilee Park Enhancement Plan.

The $3.5 million redevelopment of the new Silcock Reserve pavilion is now complete, providing outstanding new facilities for several clubs and the broader community.

Works are well underway on the new pavilion at Proclamation Park to make way for a new $3.25 million two-storey facility.

The $3.5 million redevelopment of RO Spencer Pavilion includes a new facility with improved accessibility features; new change and toilet facilities; female-friendly amenities; social space and balcony; and designated office space.

The new-look pavilion features multipurpose spaces for enhanced community use, two umpire changerooms, undercover spectator area, all abilities access and social spaces with kitchen facilities in a modern, environmentally sensitive design.

The accessible and female-friendly facilities will help to maximise participation across all ages, skill levels and genders.

The new sporting pavilion at Proclamation Park will be positioned and designed to capture 180-degree views of the field. The facility will include new female-friendly change facilities to meet the growing female participation in cricket and baseball.

An artist’s impression of the RO Spencer Pavilion.

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

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

Did you know?

Council manages 48 sporting ovals and 30 multipurpose sporting pavilions. We oversee sportsground usage and monitor the responsible use of our community facilities.

The redevelopment of Proclamation Park Sporting Pavilion will serve as an important space for local sports as well as passive recreation for the broader community.

New facilities at Silcock Reserve Pavilion will help to maximise participation across all ages.

The facility is one of Council’s most utilised pavilions and is currently home to the Croydon Ranges Cricket Club, Croydon Ranges Football Club and the Croydon and District Obedience Dog Club.

The $3.5 million project was jointly funded by Council, which allocated $2.75 million, with the Australian Government contributing $500,000 and the Victorian Government $250,000.

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

The site of the existing pavilion will make way for much needed additional carparking capacity for this well utilised reserve.

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

The $3.25 million project is being funded

by Council, which includes a recently announced $100,000 funding contribution from the Victorian Government and $20,000 from Cricket Victoria.

Stormwater drainage upgrades have positive flow-on effect To ensure we can withstand heavy rain events, Council is investing in drainage upgrades across Maroondah.

Major rehabilitation and drainage works are currently underway in the Sherbrook catchment area as well as along New Street, Ringwood, from Maroondah Highway to Sylvia Grove.

A staged drainage upgrade in the Sherbrook drainage catchment (pictured) is a significant project, with the first stage nearing completion.

The project has involved the installation of an 1800mm diameter drainage outfall to the Mullum Mullum Creek through

Sherbrook Reserve. The works will divert the Sherbrook catchment outfall down New Street, Ringwood. This will reduce the risk of flood to properties within the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre.

The installation of a large pollutant trap will also help to capture pollutants before they enter the Mullum Mullum Creek waterway.

The works were identified following an extensive flood modelling project which found drainage upgrades were needed to manage the impacts during extreme weather events.

Council maintains 367 kilometres of stormwater drainage pipes.

Maroondah news | 17

Karralyka set for the stage for second half of the year It’s been an exciting first half of the year as Karralyka welcomed back audiences to live theatre with a dazzling array of shows.

Whatever your age and whatever your taste, Karralyka’s 2021 theatre season program promises something for everyone - from music, song, dance and comedy.

There are many new and exciting performances each month and Karralyka has made it easy for you to stay informed with an up-to-date list of live, and live-streamed, performances available on their website. The website also includes an online ticketing system and interactive seat map, giving you the ability to choose your own theatre seats and take a virtual tour of the stage from where your seats are!

The second half of the year sees the inspiring story of Australia’s first culinary queen brought to life on stage in Margaret Fulton: The Musical; and strap yourself in for a night of glittering glam rock and phenomenal acrobatics with Rebel, a live circus rock tribute to the original rebel, David Bowie.

Karralyka’s Morning Music program continues to prove popular with seniors, with music and complimentary tea, coffee and treats offered throughout the year. And for younger theatre-goers, Karrakids provides fun and interactive educational performances, with art and craft sessions prior to each show.

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

So, if you’re looking for some fabulous high-quality musical entertainment, there’s no need to head for the city - it’s all here in the City of 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).

Margaret Fulton: The Musical is sure to entertain all audiences at Karralyka.

Triathlon, duathlon coming to Maroondah

Challenge yourself for Run Maroondah 2021 Keep an eye out for Early Bird entries for this year’s Run Maroondah event, which takes place on Sunday 19 September at HE Parker Reserve, Heathmont.

Run Maroondah is open to all ages and abilities. Individuals and families can join in the 10km run or the 5km run/walk, and children aged 14 and under can register for the 1.2km kids dash, all while enjoying the idyllic scenery of the city’s parks and trails.

To get your training on track in time for the event, the Maroondah Community Runners Club offers free coaching sessions each Thursday from 6.30pm at Croydon Athletics Track. Focusing on technique, coordination, fitness and fun, the sessions are a great way to stay motivated while keeping active - all under the guidance of a qualified running coach. (Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult).

The Run Maroondah course begins at HE Parker Reserve in Heathmont and continues along the Dandenong Creek trail.

18 | Maroondah news

Local triathletes and duathlon hopefuls and residents wanting to challenge themselves can start preparing for the Tri & Duathlon Maroondah, coming to you this October!

Running a course through Town Park, Croydon, and swimming at Aquahub, this October’s Maroondah Tri & Duathlon is a great event for all fitness levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a keen cyclist or swimmer, or if you’re just starting out, runners, cyclists and swimmers of all levels and abilities have the chance to take part.

Hit your fitness goals in time for spring by entering this year’s Run Maroondah.

Run Maroondah is a smoke-free event, and dogs are not permitted.

Keep a close eye on our website and social media for registration details closer to the date.

If you’re not quite up to competing alone, you can also enter a Tri Team or the Duathlon Dash. This means you can work with other team members to complete the sections of the event.

This is a great option for families wanting to participate together.

Stay tuned for more details on our website closer to the event.

Get active - join in the walking craze With more people wanting to get active and explore their local community, Council has put together a series of programs and initiatives to help get people walking more often and in safe and supported environments.

All adults aged 18-64 years should aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. That’s 30 minutes, five days of the week. The walking initiatives are all free, family-friendly and cater for all-abilities.

Extended lighting

Walk while you wait

Exercising during the winter months can be hard, so until Thursday 30 September we are lighting up a different oval in Maroondah. This means people have more time to walk after work without having to worry about it getting dark.

While the children are at training why not spend your time doing a quick walk?

Mondays, 7pm to 9pm Town Park Athletics Track, Croydon Tuesdays, 7pm to 9pm Mullum Mullum Reserve, Ringwood Wednesdays, 7pm to 9pm Mullum Mullum Reserve, Ringwood Thursdays, 7pm to 9pm Town Park Athletics Track, Croydon For more details on the above locations, visit Council’s website.

To make it easier to get motivated, we are hosting 30-minute walking groups that coincide with junior sport training times.

The walking groups aims to encourage family members, friends and children to exercise whilst waiting for children/ siblings at a sport training session.

The first ‘Walk while you wait’ walking group is from 5pm to 5.30pm, every Tuesday until 2 August at Norwood Football Club, Mullum Mullum Reserve, Ringwood.

If you are part of a club who would like to establish a Walk while you wait group please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33.

To find out more about other walking opportunities and programs in Maroondah, visit Council’s website.

Festival back in the limelight In what will be a sight to behold, Maroondah Festival is planned to return for 2021 with an exciting mix of new and traditional entertainment.

A highlight on the local events calendar for many years, we are excited to have in the works a full line-up of many family-favourite activities, delivered in a COVID-safe way.

In previous years, events have included plenty of attractions for all ages and tastes. From children’s rides to popular musical acts, to food trucks and workshops.

Maroondah Festival is the perfect event to just grab your friends and family, head down locally and enjoy the atmosphere.

There are always plenty of laughs, good food and memorable fun.

The festival originated in 1990 as the Croydon Festival and was designed to encourage the involvement of Council, community groups, local traders and key business stakeholders within the local area and the surrounding eastern region.

The event has received various makeovers and has gradually increased in popularity, with an estimated 25,000 people passing through the event in 2019.

Save the date - Maroondah Festival 2021 • Sunday 7 November • 10am to 4pm • Town Park, Norton Road, Croydon

Our beautiful city at your fingertips Whether you’re walking, riding a bicycle, taking public transport or have your own vehicle - travelling around Maroondah has never been easier.

With our online interactive map of Maroondah, finding your way around and exploring all our hidden gems is simple for locals and visitors alike.

The map function is easy-to-use and shows the features and facilities of Maroondah - and the best way to get to them.

You can select walking and cycling trails, bike lanes and bus routes across Maroondah. Or you can see the footpath network and zoom right in to see what

things are available in these locations including park benches and BBQs. For those wanting to familiarise themselves more with their neighbourhood, our website also gives access to the My Maroondah map which can help to identify your waste collection days, your ward Councillors and what Council facilities are closest to you.

To view the map functions, visit Council’s website.

Maroondah news | 19

Exquisite artists step out from the shadows The fine works of Patricia Hillard and Peter Revelman shone brightly among a field of high-quality entries at this year’s annual Mayoral Art Exhibition.

More than 80 pieces graced the Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery walls for the 26th instalment of the exhibition, with the talented duo announced as the Maroondah City Council acquisition winners.

Patricia’s painting, Nella Luce, which translates to ‘Into the Light’, beautifully captures the theme of this year’s prize. Her work impressed with its technical accomplishment in the style of photorealism and for its delicate beauty.

The exhibition was an open call for entries from artists to enter pieces based on the theme of ‘Light and Shadow’.

Artists were encouraged to explore light, shade, chiaroscuro and reflections.

For Peter’s glass sculptures, Precarious and Balanced, he displayed a mastery of glass and exquisite balance of form and colour.

Mayor Cr Kylie Spears announced Patricia and Peter as the recipients of the 2021 Mayoral Art Prize at the exhibition opening.

Did you know?

Maroondah is home to numerous artworks that enhance the public realm, provide pause for thought, and enrich our experience of those spaces. To find out more about public art in Maroondah’s shopping centres, parks, recreation facilities and plan a visit as part of your everyday activities visit Council’s website.

Patricia Hillard, Nella Luce, 2020

The selected works will be included in the Maroondah City Council Art Collection, which has grown to more than 300 pieces and includes works by celebrated artists such as Sidney Nolan, JA Turner, Lloyd Rees and Yosl Bergner.

As with previous years, all works were available for the public to purchase, with funds going towards the Croydon Branch of the Bone Marrow Donor Institute.

Meanwhile, exhibition supporter, Ringwood East/Heathmont Community Bendigo Bank, also acquired a captivating piece titled Ice-cream Days by Rona Green. Rona is a highly regarded contemporary artist, who uses printmaking to explore ideas about identity.

Peter Revelman, Precarious and Balanced, 2020

Bringing generations together Council is launching a new program GenConnect to bring our older and younger generations together.

The Intergenerational program will bring isolated members of our community and our Maroondah Occasional Care children together for weekly activities and a chance to socialise over lunch.

Building on the success of Old People’s Home for Four Year Olds it is hoped that the program will bring much needed social interactions to all participants.

To participate in the program the older person must be over 55, live independently, be reasonably mobile and have no or limited family supports.

If you or someone you know might benefit from this Intergenerational program, please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33 or visit our website.

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.

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

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Realm 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station)

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