Maroondah news Your community newsletter
August 2021
Three level crossings in Maroondah, including this one at Coolstore Road, will be removed as part of the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal Project.
Boom-gates to go
After more than five years of advocacy, Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s announcement that three level crossings in our municipality have been added to the Level Crossing Removal Project. This will see the removal of the level crossing at Bedford Road, Ringwood; as well as a new station at Croydon in association with the removal of the level crossing at Coolstore Road; and a new station at East Ringwood, in association with the removal of the level crossing at Dublin Road. The level crossings at Dublin Road, Ringwood East; and Coolstore Road, Croydon, are both on the Lilydale line. The level crossing at Bedford Road, Ringwood, is on the Belgrave Line. The removal of these three level crossings in Maroondah, along with other removal projects completed or underway, will make both the Belgrave and Lilydale lines boom-gate free along the entire length through to the city.
Welcome outcome In 2016, Council began an advocacy campaign to have the level crossing at Coolstore Road, Croydon, removed as an urgent priority.
At that time, the level-crossing at Coolstore Road was not on the Victorian Government’s list of 50 level crossings within the Level Crossing Removal Program. Council has continued to advocate to the Victorian Government over the past five years, with activity that has included preliminary investigations for the site and a business case put to the Department of Transport for this critical element to deliver the vision for the Croydon Activity Centre.
Major benefits for the community Council views the removal of the Coolstore Road level crossing as essential for the success of the Croydon Major Activity Centre. The removal of this ‘dividing line’ between the commercial centre of Croydon will enable significantly improved vehicle and pedestrian connections. Continued page 2
Welcome to Maroondah News Hello and welcome to the August edition of Maroondah News. This offering complements our range of digital and print news publications, including our quarterly Maroondah News magazine, our eNewsletter; and regular updates via our websites and social media. Our aim is to ensure we are reaching all members of our community to keep them informed and engaged with the range of Council’s services, events and programs. If you haven’t already, visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au and subscribe to our regular eNewsletters, or keep up to date on our social media channels.
Page 3: Community satisfaction results Page 5: Winter appeal Page 7: Run Maroondah
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 Our customer service centres are here to help. See our operating hours below or visit our website.
continued from front page Additionally, it will create new open space, and be the catalyst for social and economic benefits. The removal of the level crossing will include a new railway station and bus interchange and complements the work underway by Council to create the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct. The removal of the existing level crossing at Dublin Road will enable pedestrian safety and traffic flow enhancements at this busy intersection, which leads to the East Ringwood shopping precinct, local schools and various family and children’s services. The removal of the Bedford Road Level Crossing will create significant improvements for the movement of traffic and pedestrians at this busy
intersection, which is adjacent to a large secondary school, community hub and local shopping precinct. An additional benefit from these projects is the opportunity to provide a continuous quality riding and walking experience that connects Ringwood to Croydon. Council is looking forward to working closely with the Victorian Government and the Level Crossing Removal Authority to see these projects completed as quickly as possible and to see the benefits that will come for our community. For more information, including timeframes, visit www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
Realm Ringwood Town Square, 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station).
Urban backyards an important habitat for native wildlife
Open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm Open Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm
A new Council program is helping the community invite wildlife back to their own yard and neighbourhood by introducing plants that provide habitat for important native species.
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
Maroondah City Council CityofMaroondah maroondahcitycouncil Maroondah City Council
This magazine is printed on FSC paper using certified mixed sources that is made with Elemental Chlorine Freepulps using Environmental Management system ISO 14001.
The information provided in this newsletter was accurate at the time of print. For the latest information visit Council’s website.
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Maroondah City Council’s free Neighbourhood Seedling Project encourages and supports residents to incorporate indigenous species into their gardens. With the help of Central Ringwood Community Centre (CRCC) and local indigenous nursery CRISP Nursery, Council is offering residents four indigenous seedlings to plant in their own garden to help support native wildlife by creating a suitable habitat. No matter the size of your garden, it can become a safe and welcoming habitat for wildlife. Maroondah is home to a vast array of plant, animal and bird life, including many rare and threatened species that depend upon our distinct habitat types. While some species have adapted well to urbanisation, there are others that are now only found in small numbers. Creating a ‘habitat garden’ - in courtyards, gardens or balconies is a simple way to ensure our local flora and fauna is protected and is there to be enjoyed for generations to come. Also, indigenous plants are low-maintenance, and provide a reliable food source and valuable habitat for native wildlife.
Council’s Neighbourhood Seedling Project is helping the community to protect the habitats of local native species, one seedling at a time.
There are approximately 488 indigenous flora species, 171 indigenous bird species and untold different invertebrate species in Maroondah, including a number of rare and locally or regionally significant species. The free program, which is being run throughout August, aims to foster the community’s understanding of local biodiversity, while encouraging residents to connect with nature. Maroondah residents can sign up to the Neighbourhood Seedling Project online through the Central Ringwood Community Centre website to obtain their free CRISP Nursery voucher, which can be redeemed during the month of August.
Council meeting outcomes If you missed the July Council meeting, here’s a wrap up of what was discussed. Positive community feedback Following a year like no other, this year’s community satisfaction survey results reveal some positive news for Maroondah. According to the latest independent survey results, Maroondah is rated higher compared to the average rating for councils Statewide, outperforming in six key performance areas: • customer service • advocacy • overall Council direction • overall performance • value for money • making decisions in the interest of the community
and disaster management, family and disadvantaged support services. The Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey is an initiative of the Victorian Government’s Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and was conducted via telephone by independent agency JWS Research.
Council supports State electoral boundary changes Council voted in support of the majority of the Electoral Boundaries Commission’s (EBC) proposed boundary changes.
Maroondah also scored highly in the ‘condition of sealed roads’ rating 10 points higher (67) than the State average (57). Council’s performance on a range of indicators has also improved over the past 12 months including, recreational facilities, waste management, art centres and libraries, emergency
If successful the changes will see the number of Districts in Maroondah reduce from five to three, ensuring communities of interest are not split or disadvantaged. The EBC will review all suggestions and objections, and is expected to release the final boundaries on 28 October 2021. These boundaries will take effect at the 2022 State election.
New strategy for the Eastern Region The Eastern Regional Group of Councils, of which Maroondah is a member, has developed a new Strategic Plan for 2021-2025. The strategy is based on a partnership response to shared challenges associated with five key outcomes. The priority actions place an emphasis on collaboration through joint procurement and shared services, and integrated planning to support economic development and improve community outcomes. To find out more about the ERG visit www.easternregiongroup.org.au
Check out how we’ve improved your neighbourhood Council has been out and about over the past three months making improvements to many locations across our municipality. As part of our Capital Works Program, we have been undertaking many important projects based on community needs and feedback.
• Mount View Street and Newman Road, Croydon - we have completed intersection improvement works and installed raised pavements.
Below is a list of some of the capital works projects that have been completed recently to improve safety and amenity in Maroondah.
• Reilly Street, Ringwood - we have installed two raised pavements, including a new raised school crossing.
• Patrick Avenue, Palmer Avenue, Warrien Road, Croydon North - we have installed speed cushions and undertaken other traffic management improvement works.
• Prospect Hill Road - we installed a new school crossing to support Dorset Primary School. • McAlpin Reserve - we have constructed a new pedestrian path, expanded the onsite gravel carpark and resurfaced the access road. • Towerhill Drive, Holyrood Crescent, Tunbury Avenue and Major Street, Ringwood - we have constructed more than over 1000 metres of new footpath. • Todd and East courts, Croydon we have completed Stage 1 of easement drain works.
Stormwater drainage upgrades
• Sherbrook Catchment Drainage Upgrade, Ringwood - Stage 1 construction of a new drainage system designed to filter out pollutants. • Eastfield Shopping Centre - We have installed an accessible ramp and two new accessible carparks. Would you like to keep up to date with other projects underway or planned for Maroondah. Visit the Maroondah projects page at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Footpath improvement works
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We’ll get through this together The ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to present unprecedented challenges and disruptions to our daily lives. In Maroondah, we have been diligent in abiding by restrictions in place, but now is not the time to become complacent. We must continue to stay up to date and take advice, as provided from Victoria’s Chief Health Officer. Over the past 17 months, Maroondah City Council has been proactive in supporting our community, through implementing initiatives such as the COVID-19 Recovery Plan, in addition to providing support through our Be Kind Maroondah campaign. Our MaroondahConnect service can help you access a range of emotional, practical and social supports. More details at www.maroondah.vic.gov.au or call 1300 22 33, or 9298 4598.
Social support for older people We are continuing to support older people who are experiencing loneliness or people who are experiencing loneliness or isolation due to the pandemic. Our Kerrabee Social Support team is supporting clients, often remotely, with initiatives that can include home delivered weekly activity packs; telephone and video group chats and physical exercise activities. If you know a Maroondah resident who is aged 65 years and over (50 years and over if of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander identity) they may be eligible for subsidised access to the program through the My Aged Care Commonwealth Home Support Service. A low weekly fee applies. To find out more about the social support program, visit Council’s website or call 1300 88 22 33.
Delivered Meals for people aged 65 years and over Our Delivered Meals program is available for people 65 years or over (50 years and over if Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander identity) who need nutritious food or who have difficulty preparing or shopping for meals. If you or someone you know could benefit from receiving Council’s Delivered Meals service during this time, please contact www.myagedcare.gov.au or 1800 200 422.
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The community has been diligent in abiding by the restrictions in place. We all have a role to play in relief and recovery from the pandemic.
Symptoms and testing If you begin to experience any fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath, you should get tested. To find a testing site near you, visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au or call the 24-hour coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.
Vaccination 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
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. 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
Where can I stay up to date? Continue to monitor updates on the Maroondah City Council website, as well as messages through our social media channels and regular publications. Also, continue to monitor the Department of Health website at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
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.
Help others stay warm this winter
Tree facts you ‘wood’ not believe When it comes to Maroondah, we love our interesting facts and figures. For example, would you have guessed we have more than half a million trees in Maroondah? If you combined the number of trees in public and private land, you would find that more than 750,000 trees beautify our natural surrounds. Council is dedicated to ongoing maintenance and preserving tree numbers, too.
With the winter chill well and truly settled in, the Maroondah community is asked to dig a little deeper, so others can stay warm and sheltered. Local support providers are exceptionally pressed at present, as many families and individuals face challenges throughout the cooler months. However, by offering a donation of any size, we can all contribute positively to our community. Homelessness Week from 1-7 August was a timely reminder that services are experiencing their traditional winter demand. While we are all dealing with the impacts of COVID-19, and subsequent restrictions and lockdowns, our most vulnerable community members continue to face significant challenges of their own. Please remember that, even for those who are fortunate to have a roof over their head, they may only be a short step away from choosing between buying food or paying for electricity. These are people who can be hardest hit during winter. These are people you might not consider as being in need of support, or even as experiencing homelessness. Council works closely with local service-providers to support their incredible work. This Homelessness Week, we ask you support them, too, as they continue to support those most vulnerable.
Perhaps consider a one-off or ongoing financial donation to a local support provider. Alternatively, blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food items or material aid are also welcome.
Regional Homelessness and Social Housing Charter As part of Homelessness Week, the Regional Homelessness and Social Housing Charter Group has released the ‘Housing First for People Sleeping Rough Practice Guide for Local Government’. The Guide encourages a whole of Council approach to tackling homelessness, and recognises the important roles that local governments play.
As part of our annual program, each year we plant around 3,500 new trees, including native eucalypts, acacias and bottlebrushes. These are either in place of plants that have reached the end of their lifecycle, or to build on our leafy environment. These trees provide countless benefits to our community, such as filtering pollutants, creating shade, and providing food and protection for birds and other wildlife. We’re also involved with oneoff projects such as the recent beautification project at Melview Reserve in Ringwood North. As part of Victorian Education Week in May, we teamed up with Ringwood North Primary School, and Friends of Melview Reserve, to plant around 1,000 trees, comprising larger eucalypts, shrubs and ground-covers. If successful, the additional plant-life should increase natural habitat and encourage the return of many species.
Maroondah is part of the 13 eastern and south-eastern Councils who have signed up to the Charter. Who can I contact locally to assist? • Eastern Homelessness Network: Visit www.ehn.org.au or call 1800 825 955 • Wellways Maroondah: Visit www.wellways.org or call 1300 111 400 • Uniting Wesley Homelessness & Support Service: Visit www.unitingvictas.org.au or call 1800 668 426
Vacation Care bookings open for Term 3 Council’s Vacation Care Program is a convenient, affordable option for students in prep through to grade 6. The program features a range of excursions and centre-based activities. In addition, our Maroondah Leisure facilities boast many programs for active primary-school aged children. Or, why
not check out the Wyreena Community Arts Centre, which runs many artsbased holiday program activities, tailored to specific age groups. For more details on holiday programs, visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au or contact Council on 1300 88 22 33.
The beautification project at Melview Reserve will benefit the community for years to come.
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Funding grants strengthening local communities A community meal service providing food relief to families in need and people experiencing homelessness is among 60 Maroondah initiatives to benefit from more than $167,400 thanks to Council’s Community Grants Funding Program for 2021/22. The Dining Room Mission (TDR Mission) in Croydon, which has been operating since 2005, is one of this year’s beneficiaries, receiving a $3400 grant to help with the purchase of food for its weekly meal service.
Jack says TDR Mission lost three months’ worth of food when power was cut off for several days during the devastating storms in June. “We were without power for three or four days,” he said. “All our food went off. We have three freezers at the local school and we had to throw everything out before the long weekend. “We rely on the goodness of Council, local churches, schools, businesses and individuals and our networking to provide food and money,” Jack said. “We are thrilled to receive the funding which will allow us to buy food from Foodbank and other organisations. We are just one of many organisations who collectively provide for those most vulnerable. It also provides opportunities for those who have a passion for helping others,” he added.
The 2021 Maroondah Business Excellence Awards are now open and you can nominate your favourite local businesses in the below categories: • Construction, trades and related supply chain • Manufacturing and product design • Retail & hospitality • Environmental sustainability • Innovation and technology • Service excellence This year we are also offering a Judges Choice Award for COVID-19 resilience and Business of the Year.
Since COVID-19, TDR Mission has had to adapt its service from its usual two-course sit-down meal offered to guests in the hall behind St John the Divine Anglican Church to providing takeaway meals out of ADRA Vive Café. FareShare kitchen volunteer Jack Merx helps to run TDR Mission’s weekly meal service, which feeds between 60 and 75 people including rough sleepers, families with young children and others who are doing it tough.
Celebrating local business
Find out more at www.bizhubmaroondah.com.au
Each year, Council offers eligible community organisations the opportunity to share in funding made available through its Community Grants Funding Program, which supports community organisations and groups to improve facilities and services across the city. A program to promote active participation in community sport for people with a disability, community learning opportunities to support positive ageing, and programs helping settlement of newly arrived migrants are among other projects to be funded. A range of creative arts projects will also be rolled out over the next 12 months after sharing in a total of $23,294 allocated under Council’s Arts and Cultural Grants Program for 2021/22. Applications for the 2022/23 funding round will open in March 2022. For a full list of grant recipients, visit www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Bill Willkins award nomination Do you know a volunteer who is making a real difference in the community? If so, now is 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 the community who contribute to Maroondah through their volunteer work. Nominations close on Sunday 26 September, with the winner announced in December. To nominate, or find out how you can become a volunteer, visit Council’s website or call 1300 88 22 33.
Did you know? Council offers first-time pet registration fees at a pro rata rate. This means your registration fee will be calculated based on how close you are to the annual renewal date. If you are registering your pet for the first time they must be microchipped before you can complete the registration process. Having your pet microchipped and registered helps Council to reunite pets with their owns should they become lost. If you find a stray cat, or a wandering lost dog, please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33 or (03) 9298 4598.
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2020 recipient Dr Graeme Lorimer with Bill Wilkins
The Run Maroondah course begins at HE Parker Reserve in Heathmont and continues along the Dandenong Creek trail. Individuals and families are encouraged to take part.
This year, the event will be held on Sunday 19 September and is a great way to become more involved with your community, while committing to your personal health.
To get your training on track, Maroondah is blessed with many running trails and even clubs who are ready to assist. Running with others is a great way to stay motivated, particularly during winter when it can be cold and wet.
KIDS
WALK
The perfect challenge for community members of all ages and abilities, all within a supportive environment, distances include a 10km endurance run, a 5km run/walk and 1.2km kids run.
1.2KM 5KM 10KM RUN
Now is the time to start training for one of the most popular family events on our calendar, Run Maroondah 2021.
Run Maroondah 2021
RUN
Challenge yourself at family-favourite event
Sunday 19 September HE Parker Reserve
Enter before Friday 17 September
#runmaroondah
Race starts Register online8am* at | Register online! www.maroondah.vic.gov.au For more information, call Council on 1300 88 22 33. Subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
For further information 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598 | www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Engagement updates At Maroondah, your feedback is essential to informing our decision-making. We encourage you to provide input into the development of two important strategies which are open for community feedback by Monday 5 September. Draft Sustainability Strategy 20212030 - Issues and Options Paper
provided, with feedback sought to guide the development of the Strategy.
Council is reviewing our Maroondah Sustainability Strategy, which includes reflecting on the achievements of the past strategy (2016-2020), undertaking research, then preparing a new strategy (2021-2030).
A draft Strategy will be then released for comment later this year.
This Issues and Options paper aims to engage with the community and stakeholders on the development of the Maroondah Sustainability Strategy 2021-2030. A series of options are
of Maroondah, while supporting directions from our key plan, Maroondah 2040 - Our future together.
Draft Maroondah Liveability, Wellbeing and Resilience Strategy 2021-2031
The draft Maroondah Liveability Wellbeing and Resilience Strategy 2021-2031 seeks to incorporate long-term directions for community recovery, while building upon the COVID-19 Recovery Plan adopted earlier this year.
Council has been developing a long-term Strategy to shape the future liveability, wellbeing and resilience
Council is keen to hear your views. To view the documents and have your say visit www.yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au
To have your say, visit www.yoursay.maroondah.vic.gov.au
App launches members to new levels of fitness The Maroondah Leisure app has helped members set and reach their fitness goals. Since launching late last year, all app users have notched up some eyewatering combined milestones including running more than 16 times around our Earth! Together, they’ve also burned through nearly 10,000kg of body fat while working out for the equivalent of almost 30 years! The app can accurately track workouts, set individually tailored programs and monitor results, proving a huge hit with members at Aquanation and Aquahub. As a result, many users have taken their fitness to a whole new level. The app comes with a full suite of convenient functions to explore, such as the ability for members to book group fitness classes, view timetables
and coaching videos, or receive tips and notifications. Maroondah Leisure app figures from 1 February to 30 June 2021 • Registered users - 16,968 • Days exercised - 177,707 • Kilometres run - 667,129 • Weight lifted - 35,836,077kg If you are a Maroondah Leisure member and still haven’t downloaded the app, here’s how to do it: • Go to your app store and search ‘Maroondah Leisure’ • Download the Maroondah Leisure app • Create a Mywellness account Note: The app account may take up to 24 hours to be activated
We own and operate seven facilities offering recreational options in Maroondah. From gym to swimming, and team sports for all ages, or even a round of golf. Visit the Maroondah Leisure website for a range of offerings, www.maroondahleisure.com.au.
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What’s on
To view more events and activities in Maroondah, visit the What’s On in Maroondah section on Council’s website. Subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
Facets by Mimi Leung
Rebel
Maroondah Festival
Until Sunday 17 October Artspace at Realm
Friday 17 September 8pm Karralyka, Mines Rd, Ringwood East
Sunday 7 November 10am to 4pm Town Park, Norton Road, Croydon
A tribute to pop-culture icon David Bowie, ‘Rebel’ will transport you back to a time when glitter and glam ruled the music world.
We’re back and ready to deliver the much-loved Maroondah Festival!
This exhibition presents a series of works that transform the mundanity of our daily lives into a surreal, imaginative landscape. Visitors will be led into ArtSpace by Mimi’s bold and colourful illustrative designs and manic characters, which have taken over the Realm windows and ArtSpace Artwall.
Your Councillors
Inside, you will find a range of illustrations and animations including new work inspired by Ringwood and her series ‘Intricately bejewelled bugs’. There is also an urban inspired mural which wraps around the walls.
This spectacular production is much more than a rock ‘n’ roll stage event, it is a circus extravaganza accompanying with aerobics, circus and a talented live band. So, book your tickets and be prepared to take a stage dive into the night of your life.
This community-favourite event will see Town Park in Croydon come alive with wholesome activities for all ages and tastes. The Festival will feature live music, displays, food stalls, children’s activities, and a chance to catch up with family and friends. The festival presents the perfect opportunity to get back out and connect with your community in a COVIDSafe way.
Barngeong Ward
Bungalook Ward
Jubilee Ward
McAlpin Ward
Tarralla Ward
Cr Marijke Graham 0418 109 015
Cr Tony Dib OAM JP 0438 515 089
Cr Mike Symon 0436 002 080
Cr Suzy Stojanovic 0429 916 094
Cr Paul Macdonald 0436 001 760
Wicklow Ward
Wombolano Ward Wonga Ward
Cr Tasa Damante 0438 704 819
Cr Kylie Spears Mayor 0436 003 660
Cr Nora Lamont Deputy Mayor 0428 394 581
Yarrunga Ward
Cr Rob Steane 0407 519 986
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
Realm 179 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (opposite Ringwood Station)
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.