April 2015 Mitcham Community News

APRIL 2015

The Mitcham Heritage Research Centre has planned an exciting program of events to celebrate the ‘About Time’ SA History Festival this May. FULL STORY ON PAGE 7

MITCHAM COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 2015

If your children are fascinated by technology and would like to interact and experiment with various robots, gadgets and gizmos come along to the Blackwood Library this school holidays.

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Microchip your cat or dog for only $30 on Saturday 2 May at Petstock Animal Supplies, 1089 South Road, Melrose Park from 9 am to 12 pm.

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Over 800 street trees will be planted during winter to ensure our beautiful street avenues remain leafy and green.

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Also in this issue 2 Community Ward Forums 3 Draft Annual Business Plan 5 Protect Your Pets in Emergencies 10 Community Calendar 11 Upcoming Work in Your Street 12 Your Elected Members 16 Men’s Lunch Group

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mitcham community news

April 2015

April 2015 Publication Details Mitcham Community News is published bi-monthly by and for the City of Mitcham.

Editorial Communications Department City of Mitcham Design + Production Sarah Bennett Design Reprographics + Printing Graphic Print Group Paperstock Printed on paper made in Australia from elemental chlorine free pulp derived from sustainable plantation forests.

Distribution Salmat Mediaforce and Australia Post Delivered to 29,850 homes, PO boxes and businesses within the Mitcham Council area.

Advertising KRL Media Services Telephone: 8231 5433 PO Box 131 Unley, SA 5061 Contributing Articles Community groups and organisations submitting items for the June 2015 issue of this publication should ensure they reach Business Partner Communication and Marketing Julie Lamond no later than Friday 8 May 2015.

Telephone: 8372 8871 or email jlamond@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Good quality colour/high resolution colour photographs/image files can be submitted although publication will depend on space availability.

Website www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Listen to the Mitcham Community News Audio copies of the Mitcham Community News are available on compact disc at both Mitcham and Blackwood Libraries or by arrangement from the Community Information Service.

Telephone: 8372 8812.

Council Meetings The Development Assessment Panel meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6.30 pm.

Full Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm.

Council Civic Centre Open weekdays 9 am to 5 pm.

131 Belair Road, Torrens Park or PO Box 21, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Torrens Park, South Australia 5062 Telephone: 8372 8888 The views and opinions expressed in articles and advertisements submitted by contributors, other than the City of Mitcham, do not necessarily reflect the views of the Council as a body, nor as individual members. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy in published articles submitted by contributors other than Council, no responsibility is accepted for any errors that they may contain.

From the Mayor Mayor Glenn Spear Telephone: 0438 221 762 gspear@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

It is three months since I was elected as Mayor of the City of Mitcham and I would like to thank everyone for their support during, and since my election.

I am enjoying this new role and the challenges that it brings. I have a strong vision for the City of Mitcham and will work hard with the administration, residents and Councillors to deliver improvements across the city.

I am enjoying leading a strong and vibrant Council consisting of past and newly elected Councillors.

The new Council comprises a mix of people with expertise and experience in a wide range of areas.

It has been a very busy time with numerous workshops and briefings being held preparing for the 2015/2016 Budget. There has been an in-depth review of expenditures across the board and the Council has worked hard to achieve cost saving measures where possible. I thank administration for accepting the various challenges that have been presented, particularly with regard to new efficiency goals.

The council is aware of the necessity to deliver and maintain services, deliver new and improved infrastructure and to budget for ongoing maintenance of the extensive capital infrastructure. We are conscious of delivering this while keeping rate increases under control.

Since being elected as Mayor I have been invited to several meetings with State Government Ministers and representatives from all political parties and levels of government. I have found it helpful to be ‘non politically’ aligned in these various discussions and I believe that this stance has been well received at government and community level.

I have been actively promoting our opposition to both the Federal and State Government’s proposal to cut pensioner and senior rate concessions. I strongly believe that the vulnerable people in our community should be protected at all costs.

Councils have a unified stance on this issue and I have strongly supported this view.

Mitcham is indeed fortunate to have a wonderful team of volunteers assisting in the community.

The bus drivers, garden workers, librarian helpers, community event workers and numerous others embody the spirit of the Mitcham Community and I thank them all.

Thank you to the Council waste truck drivers, Danny, Gordon, Rob, Louie, Steve and Geoff, who take the time to wheel the rubbish bins to the footpath of the elderly who struggle with that task; I know the residents really appreciate your assistance and caring attitude.

Tracey and I have enjoyed attending the many functions that we have been invited to. It has been a pleasure to meet the many community groups and residents at these events. I hope that I will have the opportunity of meeting more of you in the coming years.

Community Ward Forums Community Ward Forums provide an opportunity for residents to meet with Elected Members, find out more about your ward, ask questions and talk about local issues.

Residents are invited to attend their local forum on:

Community Forum for Overton Ward (Clarence Gardens, Melrose Park, Cumberland Park, Daw Park and Colonel Light Gardens [part]) 7 pm, Monday 4 May 2015 City of Mitcham Mayor’s Parlour, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Community Forum for Boorman Ward (Kingswood, Torrens Park, Lynton, Mitcham, Netherby, Brown Hill Creek, Springfield, Urrbrae and Leawood Gardens) 7 pm, Wednesday 6 May 2015 City of Mitcham, Mayor’s Parlour, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Community Forum for Craigburn/The Park Wards (Blackwood, Belair, Bellevue Heights, Coromandel Valley, Craigburn Farm, Eden Hills, Glenalta, Hawthorndene and Upper Sturt) 7 pm, Monday 11 May 2015 Blackwood Community Centre, 4 Young Street, Blackwood.

Community Forum for Gault Ward (Clapham, Colonel Light Gardens [part], Hawthorn, Lower Mitcham and Westbourne Park) 7 pm, Thursday 14 May 2015 City of Mitcham, Mayor’s Parlour, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Community Forum for Babbage Ward (Bedford Park, Panorama, Pasadena and St Marys) 7 pm, Monday 18 May 2015 City of Mitcham Mayor’s Parlour, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Residents are invited to submit questions prior to a forum to ensure that the topic can be addressed on the night. Questions should be made in writing and: State the ward forum at which the matter will be raised.

Be sent to Council at least two weeks prior to the relevant forum.

Include the resident’s contact details should any clarification of the question need to be sought.

Be addressed to: City of Mitcham PO Box 21 Mitcham Shopping Centre Torrens Park SA 5062 Email: mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au For more information call 8372 8888.

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Consultation on the Draft Business Plan will begin in May Have your say on how Council should spend your rates!

Council is preparing a draft Business Plan and draft Long Term Financial Pan for 2015/2016. The Draft Business Plan outlines the activities Council proposes to undertake over the next 12 months as Council works towards its long term goals set out in its Strategic Management Plan.

In May residents will have an opportunity to share their views for consideration by Council on the draft Business Plan and draft Long Term Financial Plan prior to the adoption of the final plans.

The plans will be available for viewing in May at:

National Youth Week 2015 Celebrate being young during National Youth Week in April.

City of Mitcham Civic Centre, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Saturday 11 April

Saturday 18 April

Blackwood Library, 242 Belair Road, Blackwood.

Skate Park Competition

Superhero Themed Roller Disco

Time:

Time:

Mitcham Library, 154 Belair Road, Hawthorn.

Council’s website at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au A public meeting will be held in May at: City of Mitcham Civic Centre 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park Watch out for more information in your local Messenger or online at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

12 pm to 3 pm

6.30 pm to 9.30 pm

Location: Avenue Road Reserve Skate Park, Cumberland Park

Location: Blackwood Community Recreation Centre, 1 Northcote Road, Eden Hills

Cost:

Free registration, airbrush artist and glitter tattoos

Cost:

Age:

Competitors must be at least 6 years of age or over

Tickets are only $5 if purchased before the event, or $10 per person if purchased on the night. Ticket price includes the hire of skates.

Age:

Open to all ages, however children under 12 years must be supervised by an adult.

Details: Multiple age categories, prizes and give-a-ways from Da Klinic, live DJ and pro rider judges. Food and drink will be for sale on the day.

Join in the action and get along to see local skateboard and scooter riders put their skills to the test as they battle it out in the skate park. DJ Shep and the Da Klinic team will have stacks of prizes on offer for the multiple age categories and plenty of give- a-ways for having a go. With a live DJ, free air brush and glitter tattoos, as well as plenty of food and drinks for sale, this will be a great day out for the entire family.

Superhero themed roller disco with live music from DJ Ollie, prizes for costumes, plenty of givea-ways and games. Food and drink facilities will be available for purchase on the night.

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mitcham community news

April 2015

Sugar and Spice (and all things nice) Make your own lusciously scented beauty products and craft!

School Holidays at the Library Join in the fun during the April school holidays….

Robots, Gadgets and Gizmos

Story Time

If your children are fascinated by technology and would like to interact and experiment with various robots, gadgets and gizmos come along to the Blackwood Library on Thursday 16 April or at the Mitcham Library on Wednesday 22 April from 10 am to 12 pm. $10 per child for ages 8+. To secure your booking visit your Library at 215 Main Road, Blackwood or 154 Belair Road, Hawthorn.

Enjoy stories, songs and craft during the holidays from 10.30 am to 11.30 am at the Mitcham Library on Monday 13 and 20 and Thursday 16 and 23 and at the Blackwood Library on Tuesday 14 and 21 and Wednesday 15 and 22.

Come along to the Mitcham Library on Tuesday 21 April from 2 pm to 4 pm and learn to make beauty products and craft from traditional and natural ingredients.

Cost is $5 for young people aged 10 to 17 years.

Bookings with payment essential.

Don’t forget if you have allergies, please check with us about the ingredients used.

For more information call 8372 8244 or visit us at 154 Belair Road, Hawthorn.

For more information call the Mitcham Library on 8372 8244 or Blackwood Library on 8372 8255.

Making Beaded Jewellery If you are aged between 10-17 years come along to the Blackwood Library and learn how to make jewellery using beads.

This hands on workshop will be held at the Blackwood Library from 2 pm to 3.30 pm on Thursday 23 April. Cost is $5 per person.

Places are limited so call 8372 8255 or visit us at 215 Main Road, Blackwood.

Chess Group at the Blackwood Library Visit the Blackwood Library and play a game of chess.

Each month on a Wednesday the Blackwood Library hosts a Chess Group from 2 pm. The next Chess Group will meet on 6 May. Bring a friend to play Chess, share your strategy or learn some new ones.

For more information call 8372 8255 or visit us at 215 Main Road, Blackwood.

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Protect Your Pets in Emergencies Are you and your pets prepared for an emergency? Make sure you have a Pet Emergency Plan when you prepare your Bushfire Survival Plan.

A Pet Emergency Plan should be part of your Bushfire Survival Plan to ensure the safety of you and your pets during a bushfire.

Dogs, cats, birds, horses and even pet fish need to be considered and your Bushfire Survival Plan needs to take in all your love ones.

A Pet Emergency Plan will help you act early and be prepared, to avoid danger, panic and potentially fatal situations for you and your pets.

When you prepare your Bushfire Survival Plan make sure you include your pets in your plan by preparing a Pet Emergency Plan, prepare a pet emergency kit and practice your plan.

The Pet Emergency Plan is funded by the Natural Disaster Resilience Program, and has been developed by RSPCA South Australia in partnership with the Commonwealth and State Government of South Australia.

To create your own Pet Emergency Plan visit www.rspcasa.org.au/information/ petemergencyplan/

Discounted Microchipping Day on Saturday 2 May from 9 am to 12 pm.

Discounted Microchipping Day Microchip your cat or dog for only $30 on Saturday 2 May at Petstock Animal Supplies, 1089 South Road, Melrose Park from 9 am to 12 pm.

The City of Mitcham, in conjunction with Microchips Australia and Petstock Animals Supplies, is conducting a discounted microchipping day. For only $30 you can get your cat and dog microchipped to ensure your pet can be returned to you if it is lost or stolen.

The microchip features a barcode that links your contact details on a nationally accredited database, Central Animal Records.

A microchip will be implanted by a local veterinarian and causes no pain or discomfort to your pet. You will also receive an external tag and a Certificate of Identification will be posted to you.

To ensure the safety of all animals, cats must be kept secured in a cage and dogs are to be kept on a leash.

Remember you must microchip and register your cat.

For more information visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or phone 8372 8888.

Cat Tracker Ever wondered where your cat ventures to? Now’s your chance to find out, with Cat Tracker!

University of South Australia’s Citizen Science program - Discovery Circle, in collaboration with the City of Mitcham, is discovering the secret life of cats with Cat Tracker.

Cat Tracker is designed for cat owners who are interested in finding out exactly where their cat ventures to. Cat owners will be provided an easyto-use GPS tracking device to help discover where their cats visit.

If you would like to participate, please fill out the online survey which can be found at

www.discoverycircle.org.au. The survey is open to anyone 16+ in South Australia and includes a cat personality test.

At the end of the survey you can select if you would like to participate in tracking your cat and you will receive a report, containing the results of your cat’s personality and where your cat went (depending on which parts you complete).

There are also fact-sheets available and resources for teachers to use in the classroom from Reception to year 9.

For more information please call 8302 9999 or visit www.discoverycircle.org.au.

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April 2015

About mitcham community news

South Australia's

A Village Birthday Celebrate 175 years of Mitcham Village with a guided walk and birthday cake at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre.

In 1840 the SA Company advertised ‘delightful sites for villas’ in a new village called Mitcham. See how Mitcham Village has evolved over 175 years on this guided walk through the Mitcham Village Historic Conservation area. Admire heritage architecture; hear about the lives of early residents of the village. Finish off with coffee and cake at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre. Take time to view the local history collection.

Bookings essential.

Date:

Thursday 7 and Thursday 21 May

Time:

9.30 am to 11.30 am (Meet at 9.15 am)

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham Cost:

$5 per person

All Aboard Glorious and gory tales of rail history are revealed along the hills line to Belair.

Meet at Mitcham Station and hear how the hills railway transformed Adelaide. Hop on board the hills train and hear about the glorious and gory tales of the rail’s history as you travel up to Belair. Hop off at Belair and enjoy a guided tour of Belair Station then back on board to Blackwood Station for refreshments provided by the Blackwood Action Group in the former Waiting Room. Stay for a guided walk of Blackwood or make your own way home. Bookings essential.

Date:

Tuesday 12 May

Time:

9.45 am to 11.45 am 11.30 am to 1.30 pm 12.45 pm to 2.45 pm

Location: Meet on hills platform, Mitcham Railway Station 15 minutes before advertised times.

Cost:

Mitcham Camp Goes to the Drill Hall Over 30,000 soldiers trained in Colonel Light Gardens during WW1

$5 per person

Paper Treasures Learn how to care for those precious family photos and documents

In 1915, the Mitcham army camp was established where the model garden suburb of Colonel Light Gardens now stands.

There is little evidence of the more than 30,000 enlisted men who trained there in preparation for the battlefields of WWI. This display, which is travelling throughout Mitcham in 2015, is part of History SA’s The Great War at Home event.

Photos, letters and books are important reminders of our past.

In an era of digital records and cloud storage, paper documents are a stable unchanging record, provided they are well cared for. Come and talk to an experienced bookbinder and paper conservator about how to preserve your family photos and documents, repair books and safely keep family treasures for future generations.

Date:

Friday 8 May and Saturday 9 May

Date:

Thursday 14 May at Mitcham Library

Time:

10 am to 3 pm

Thursday 28 May at Blackwood Library

Location: The Drill Hall, Torrens Parade Grounds, Adelaide

Time:

10.30 am to 12 noon

Cost: Free

Cost: Free

Time

mitcham community news

April 2015

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History Festival Celebrate Mitcham’s local history during the SA History Festival in May. Kick back on a bus tour, stride out on a guided walk, visit an exhibition or learn how to conserve those precious family documents.

The Mitcham Heritage Research Centre has planned an exciting program of events to celebrate the ‘About Time’ SA History Festival this May.

Top of the Ranges Discover Belair Village and the many grand institutional buildings at the top of the ranges See the historic features of the Belair Village Historic Conservation area as Belair’s development is described on this bus tour. Discover why a Home for the Inebriates and two TB sanatoriums were established here in the late nineteenth century. Enjoy a wonderful morning tea at the historic Sheoak Deli (included in cost). Bookings essential.

Date:

Tuesday 19 May

Time:

10 am to 1 pm

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham at 9.45 am Cost:

$20 per person

The Fallen Poignant and personal stories of some South Australians who fell during WWI

Grand Designs

Many young men from the Mitcham district fought and died for their country during World War One. The memorials throughout the Mitcham General and Anglican Cemeteries are a poignant reminder that some never returned to their families. Hear their stories on this guided walk. Bookings essential.

A glimpse of grand architecture on the Mitcham plains

Date:

Wednesday 13 and 27 May

Substantial homes on large estates were built throughout Mitcham during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Sit back on this bus tour and be amazed at the grand architecture; be entertained by the stories of those who lived there. Bookings essential.

Time:

10 am to 12.30 pm

Date:

Saturday 23 May

Time:

Meet at 1.15 pm for 1.30 pm departure.

Arrive back by 3.30 pm

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham Cost:

$10 per person

Location: Meet at the Rotunda, Mitcham General Cemetery, Blythewood Road, Mitcham Cost:

$5 per person

For more information about the SA History Festival visit the ‘About Time’ website at www.historyweek.sa.gov.au or call 8372 8261

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mitcham community news

April 2015

Commemorating the Centenary of the Mitcham Army Camp 100 years ago 30,000 pairs of feet drilled, marched, paraded and trained in the area now known as Colonel Light Gardens in preparation for overseas service during WW1.

It was in April 1915 when a model garden suburb in the area was still on the drawing board, that the army established Mitcham Camp on the three hundred acre Grange Farm owned by the Mortlock family.

When Australia first entered WW1, a flood of enthusiastic young men enlisted to “do their bit for their country” in a rush of nationalistic fervour.

The Mitcham Camp was established after the first camp at Morphettville became overcrowded.

Troops from the 27th Battalion marched into Mitcham Camp on 1 April 1915 and the area was soon a sea of tents swarming with thousands of enthusiastic new enlistees.

The camp accommodated over 4,000 soldiers training for up to 12 weeks. Field patrols, bayonet fighting, bomb throwing and trench digging were all part of routine training at the camp. The Light Horse camped and cared for their horses near what is now the eastern end of Prince George Parade.

Camp headquarters were initially in the old four roomed Grange farmhouse. By 1916 Mitcham Camp resembled a large mining town with rows of neat galvanised iron huts, a hospital, camp HQ, a large recreation building run by the YMCA, a Post Office, bank agency, barbers and religious facilities for many denominations. Sealed roads were named after Adelaide’s main city streets.

Soldiers regularly marched up Wattlebury Road on training. When the troops assembled at Mitcham

Station for embarkation from Outer Harbour, the local community gave them a rousing farewell. Some camp activities were not quite so popular with the locals though. On February 14, 1916 The Advertiser reported that residents from surrounding suburbs were startled by loud explosions as soldiers practised live bomb throwing under simulated war conditions.

Local resident Ron Lugg recalled his excitement at passing the camp regularly as a boy, eagerly awaiting his 18th birthday when he could enlist.

Many of the former students from the Brownhill Creek and Mitcham Primary schools who enlisted, trained at Mitcham Camp. By early 1918, training

on home grounds ceased with troops despatched for training in Egypt or England as soon as a ship became available.

The Mitcham Heritage Research Centre has prepared a series of freestanding interpretive banners to commemorate the centenary of Mitcham Camp. Launched at Colonel Light Gardens Primary School on 27 March the banners will be displayed at Colonel Light Gardens RSL during April and at History SA headquarters at the Drill Hall, Torrens Parade grounds on 7 and 8 May as part of the ‘At Home’ exhibition.

For more details, dates and venues please visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

If your community group or school would like to borrow the banners for a display contact Therese Willis, Local History Coordinator at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Protecting Mitcham’s Heritage A new Development Plan for Mitcham is now in place to provide additional heritage protection to a number of areas and properties throughout the Council area.

The City of Mitcham’s Heritage Development Plan Amendment was approved by the Minister for Planning on 12 February 2015.

13 new Local Heritage Places including elements of the Mitcham Water Works in Ellison Creek / Brownhill Creek

historically important buildings, is recognised and preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.

Key heritage protection measures include: A new Historic (Conservation) Policy Area at Adey Road in Blackwood

introduction of detailed design guidelines (heritage considerations) in Table Mit/8 of the Development Plan

expansion to the Historic (Conservation) Zone – Mitcham Village

As one of the oldest Councils in South Australia it is important that our history, including

The Mitcham (City) Development Plan and detailed information including correspondence with the Minister for Planning is available from Council’s website (go to the ‘Most Requested Links’ section on the front page) www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

For more information on the Heritage Development Plan Amendment please contact Ben Hignett, Business Partner – Strategic Planning and Projects on 8372 8888.

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Food Scraps are Good To Go! As the cooler months approach now is a great time to try food scraps recycling.

All food scraps, (including meat and seafood) paper towel, hair and even pet waste can be placed into your green organics bin. Anything that once grew is considered organic. So not only can your lawn cuttings and garden prunings go into this bin you can also place all your food scraps.

You will be surprised how empty your blue lidded waste bin becomes!

There are several ways you can put your food scraps in your green organics bin: 1. Put your food scraps in loose 2. Wrap your food scraps in newspaper 3. Put your food scraps in compostable bags and kitchen caddy

Kitchen caddies and compostable bags are available from the City of Mitcham at a discounted price for all residents and can be purchased from 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park: Kitchen caddy and roll of 52 compostable bags: $10 Roll of 52 compostable bags: $4 Roll of 100 compostable bags: $7 Compostable bags are made of 100% compostable vegetable materials that decompose during the composting process. Compostable bags are different to biodegradable plastic bags.

Only compostable bags can go into your green organics bin.

For further information please contact the Waste Management Officer on 8372 8888 or email mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Helpful tips: Place lawn clippings, leaves or shredded paper on food scraps to reduce odours Freeze scraps like seafood, liquids and meat until your collection day A tight-fitting lid on your green organics bin will help keep flies and pests away Change your compostable bag every 2-3 days and regularly clean your kitchen caddy Remember you can even recycle food scraps at home using a compost bin or a worm farm and let your own garden reap the rewards!

Clean Up Australia Day Thank you to everyone who participated in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 1 March.

The day was a huge success with individuals, community groups and schools working together to clean up 18 sites in the Mitcham Council area.

Volunteers collected general litter as well as illegally dumped rubbish including tyres, shopping trolleys, timber and cement.

Approximately 40 volunteers, coordinated by the Blackwood Action Group, helped to clean up Blackwood, by collecting 26 bags of rubbish including car tyres and shopping trolleys.

Volunteers were rewarded with a BBQ brunch in the old Stationmaster’s Cottage.

Your contribution has ensured a cleaner environment for all to enjoy and your efforts are much appreciated.

How to make a Difference Everyday Everyone can play their part in keeping our community clean by placing rubbish in the right bin and within the home by utilising Council’s hard waste service for those larger household items. Let us continue with the efforts of our Clean Up Australia Day volunteers and keep our City looking good.

For more information on the domestic ‘At Call’ hard waste service please call 8372 8888 or visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

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mitcham community news

April 2015

community groups

get fit/social activities

community events

Mitcham Community Calendar Probus Club of Brownhill Creek – Mitcham

Folk Federation Dance

Hills Choral Society Birthday Concert

If you are a retired male come along to enjoy morning tea, guest speakers, outings and lunches on the second Thursday of each month in the Uniting Church hall, 103 Princes Road at 10 am.

Call 8357 3238 or write to PO Box 393, Mitcham Shopping Centre.

Enjoy a mixture of Australian, Bush, English, Scottish, Irish and Contra dances with expert callers from Adelaide dance groups on Saturday 11 April at 8 pm at the Mitcham Cultural Village, 103 Princes Road, Mitcham. Beginners welcome.

Members $10, non-members $12. Call 8374 1152 or email ronaldsweeney@bigpond.com

The Hills Choral Society presents a 50th Birthday Concert on Sunday 31 May at St Columba’s Anglican Church, Hawthorn at 2.30 pm. $25 Adults $18 Concession. Call 8227 2239.

Adelaide-Mitcham Prostate Cancer Support Group Come along to discuss health issues on Thursday 23 April at 7 pm at the Colonel Light Gardens RSL Club, 4 Prince George Parade, Colonel Light Gardens. Guest speaker will be Graeme Ruwoldt from Lifeline. Call 8374 1236 or visit www.adelaide-mitchampcsg.org

Yoga Classes at the Blackwood Uniting Church

Care and Share

The Kingswood Playgroup offers lots of free play, craft, stories and songs for children 0-5yrs, in a fun, caring environment. Every Friday morning (school terms) 9 am to 10.45 am at 35 Cambridge Terrace, Kingswood in the church hall. $4 per family. Call 0448 890 515 or just come along.

If you are an aged person who is living in your own home come along and enjoy friendship through activities such as, craft, gentle exercises, board games and the occasional outing. Every Monday and Thursday from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm and Wednesday and Friday from 9.30 am to 2 pm. Morning and afternoon tea with a hot lunch is provided each day. $12 includes meals and transport. Email careandshare@adam.com.au or call 8276 1144.

Trinity Baptist Children and Youth Join in the activities run during school terms, playgroups Monday and Tuesday 9.30 am to 11.30 am, Junior Kids Club Fridays 4 pm to 5.30 pm even school weeks, Senior Kids Club Sundays 4.30 pm to 6 pm even school weeks, Junior Youth Fridays 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm Years 7-9. Visit www.trinityclg.org.au or call 0412 996 519.

Flinders University of the Third Age Holds twice weekly meetings for seniors and retirees at Ascot Park, just off Daws Road and outings, walks etc. Call 8201 3068 Monday to Wednesday 9.30 am to 12 pm or visit u3aflinders.org.au Blackwood Hills View Club Meet new friends at a luncheon meeting at the Belair Park Country Club on Monday 20 April at 10 am. Guest speaker is Simone Sarris, a Physiotherapist from Smart Health who will be presenting ideas for preventing problems in ageing. Please wear loose clothing to join in some simple exercises. Cost is $26.

Call 8370 2289.

Probus Club of Colonel Light Gardens (Ladies) Come along on the first Friday of the month at 10 am at the Colonel Light Gardens Uniting Church, 560 Goodwood Road, Daw Park to enjoy guest speakers, day trips and lunches. New members welcome. Call 8276 8228.

Come and enjoy Yoga classes on Thursday - Chair Yoga Class between 1 pm and 2 pm or General Hatha Yoga Class between 7.30 pm and 9 pm.

Call 0437 389 186.

Kingswood Playgroup

Zumba Fitness Classes Join the fun and get fit with Zumba Fitness Classes at the Cumberland Park Community Centre, 390 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park every Monday 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Zumba is an easy to follow, Latin dance fitness class suitable for all ages.

Beginners welcome. No booking required. First class is free. Visit www.firstwavefitness.com.au or call 0412 853 395.

Hawthorndene Primary School Celebrates 50 Years Enjoy an Open Day on Sunday 24 May from 10 am to 3 pm. Tours ½ hourly from 11 am. Classroom viewings; historical displays, stroll around the beautiful grounds, sausage sizzle, cake stall. Visit www.hthdeneps.sa.edu.au/50thcelebrations Meet Author Fiona McIntosh Blackwood Hills View Club invites you to share afternoon tea with local author Fiona McIntosh to celebrate her latest book - The Last Dance on Sunday 12 April at 1 pm at the Belair Park Country Club, Upper Sturt Road, Belair. Tickets $35. Call 0408 400 276.

Belair Autumn Treasure Market Looking for a Mother’s Day gift, good coffee and crepes, second-hand books, recycled jewellery, plants or patisserie, come along to the market on Saturday 9 May from 9 am to 2 pm at the Belair Uniting Church, 18 Sheoak Road, Belair.

Call 0408 861 725.

Ride For East Timor

Every Wednesday craft activities and board games between 1 pm and 4 pm at St Columba’s Parish Centre, 3 Rosevear Street, Hawthorn. Afternoon tea provided.

Community bike ride to raise funds for building houses in East Timor on Sunday 26 April at 12.30 pm from Westbourne Park Uniting Church, 27 Sussex Terrace, Hawthorn to Wigley Reserve, Glenelg. Ride either 12 km or 34 km. $20 per person or $50 per family. Registrations close 20 April. Email wpuc@internode.on.net, visit www.wpuc.org.au or call 8271 7066.

Edwardstown Baptist Community Centre

Seniors in Harmony

Are you over 50? Want to meet some new people?

Come along to the Friendship Club and enjoy table tennis, eight ball, carpet bowls, card and board games and day trips every Tuesday 10 am to 2 pm. Cost is $2. Bring your project and join an existing knitting, embroidery, quilting or cardmaking to Café Craft each Thursday from 9.30 am to 12 noon at the Edwardstown Baptist Church Community Centre. Cost $3. Call 8276 1040.

The Hills Choral Society will perform Vintage Voices, singing WW1 songs on 5 May at 1.30 pm at the Mitcham Cultural Village Institute Hall.

Admission is free and includes afternoon tea.

Email seniorsharmony@gmail.com

Coffee, Craft and Chat

Men’s Link Café Every first and third Tuesday between 10 am and 12 noon at the Trinity Baptist Church, 8A Bedford Square, Colonel Light Gardens. Call 0412 996 519 or visit www.trinityclg.org.au Reade Park Lawn Tennis Club Come and play friendly social tennis on lawn courts every Wednesday evening at Reade Park Lawn Tennis Club, Hereford Place, Colonel Light Gardens from 5.30 pm till dusk. Cost $6 pp. Call 0488 481 466

Falling Upwards Easter Exhibition Gallery One and Uniting Church Mitcham present Life@Death 2015 exhibition until 4 May from Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 4.30 pm.

Monster Garage Sale 8.30 am on Saturday 18 April at Blackwood Uniting – the Church by the roundabout. Bargains including clothes, sports/fitness, homewares, electrical, books, plants, tools, cakes, sausage sizzle and more.

Hidden Valleys of Brownhill Creek Enjoy a walk around Brownhill Creek on Sunday 10 and 24 and Saturday 16 May at 1.30 pm.

Meet at the Manure Pits, Brownhill Creek Road.

Call 0430 472 262.

mitcham community news

April 2015

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Upcoming Work In Your Street Further information about the infrastructure program is available at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/goto/budget Bridges

Tree Planting

Preparatory works associated with the replacement of Ayr Avenue Bridge, Torrens Park continue.

Street tree planting will begin in May in Clarence Gardens, Cumberland Park, Westbourne Park, Hawthorn, Kingswood, Netherby, Urrbrae, Melrose Park and Daw Park.

Road Works Road rehabilitation works completed:

Water Sensitive Urban Design

Catherine Avenue, Clapham Freeling Crescent, Colonel Light Gardens

Treenet Inlets will be installed in: Springfield Avenue to provide passive irrigation to street trees.

Lloyd Street, St Marys Thomas Street, Clarence Gardens

Footpath Construction

Kerb and Watertable Works

Tobruk Avenue, St Marys

Paving works recently completed:

Windsor Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens

Blythewood Road, Torrens Park

Kerb and Watertable works are currently underway in:

Carruth Avenue, Torrens Road

Belair Road, Hawthorn

Road rehabilitation works planned:

Comaum Street, St Marys

Carruth Road, Torrens Park

Alpha Road, Bellevue Heights

Fife Avenue, Torrens Park

Carruth Road, Torrens Park

Freeling Crescent, Colonel Light Gardens

Freeling Crescent, Colonel Light Gardens

Clovelly Avenue, Clarence Gardens East Parkway, Colonel Light Gardens Eden Avenue, Bellevue Heights Gladys Peach Court, Torrens Park Norman Street, St Marys Rosella Avenue, Glenalta

Traffic Management Road safety projects were completed in: Clapham - Traffic control devices for Boothby Street and O’Neil Street have recently been implemented.

Lloyd Street, St Marys

Osborne Street, St Marys

Tobruk Avenue, St Marys

Prince George Parade, Colonel Light Gardens

Shepherds Hill Road, Blackwood

Quinlan Avenue, Pasadena The Strand, Colonel Light Gardens Tobruk Avenue, St Marys Paving works underway: Ardeer Road, Torrens Park East Parkway, Colonel Light Gardens Grandview Drive, Pasadena Newark Road, Torrens Park Norman Street, St Marys Princes Road, Torrens Park Rosella Avenue, Glenalta Walkway (Colorado to Sun Valley), Glenalta Walkway (Ti Tree to Deneland), Hawthorndene

Windsor Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens

Stormwater Stormwater works have recently been completed in: Coromandel Parade, Coromandel Valley Diosma Drive, Coromandel Valley Stormwater works are currently underway in: Centre Way, Belair

Playgrounds Playgrounds will be constructed in: Kent Street Reserve, Colonel Light Gardens Woodlake Reserve, Craigburn Farm CC Hood Reserve Fitness Equipment

Reducing Bushfire Risks in Randell Park Last December vegetation was removed and/or posioned from the quarries to reduce bushfire risks and rock falls to nearby house.

Fraser Street, Lower Mitcham, Western Avenue, Pasadena and Cudmore Crescent, Melrose Park to alleviate water pooling issues.

Infiltration devices will be installed: Near the River Red Gums in Freeling Crescent, Colonel Light Gardens to distribute stormwater for tree irrigation.

Beneath The Strand Reserve in Colonel Light Gardens to harvest stormwater for passive irrigation.

Grey Box Woodland Reserves Boneseed, Olive, Aleppo Pine and Italian Buchthorn will be controlled in: Blackwood Hill Reserve Randell Park (main gully)

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mitcham community news

April 2015

Boorman Ward Cr Adriana Christopoulos

Craigburn Ward Cr Nick Greer

Gault Ward Cr Stephen Fisher

Telephone: 0433 999 121

Telephone: 7420 9808

Telephone: 0407 973 321

achristopoulos@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

ngreer@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

sfisher@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Firstly I would like to start by saying thank you to all the residents and ratepayers who supported my election as Councillor for the Boorman Ward in November 2014. I personally thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent your views at Council for the next four years. I will ensure that decisions made are in the best interests of the City and that these decisions reflect the wishes of residents and ratepayers.

I thank the electors of Craigburn Ward for electing me again to represent them on Mitcham Council.

Blackwood and the surrounding suburbs have missed out on far too much for far too long, both from Council and from the current State Government - and we need a better deal.

Thank you to Gault Ward residents. I look forward to continuing to represent you. The new Councillors and Mayor, and the six returned members, have a broad spectrum of skills and experience, and discussions at Council meetings lead to the best possible outcomes.

I congratulate Sam Duluk, who defeated me in a fair fight for Liberal Preselection for the seat of Davenport. Sam will be an outstanding Member for our electorate.

Council is currently discussing our 2015/16 Budget.

The Directors and the whole Council Staff have achieved the savings targets in our 2014/15 operating budget, and should be able to complete the year with the minor planned surplus. This is a vast improvement over the underlying $1.732 Million deficit reported at the start of 2014/15.

The months ahead will be challenging but I believe in working as part of a team, especially with my co-councillor and I believe that all Elected Members have the interests of residents utmost in their decisions.

There are many issues that are on the agenda straight away and as a new member I am concerned that the Federal Government’s decision to cut the National Partnership Agreement on Certain Concession Card and Senior Card Holders (NPA) and if that wasn’t enough, our State Government who also maintained Council Rate Concessions paid under the South Australian Rates and Land Tax Remission Act 1986 have now also announced it will stop concessions on rates at the end of this financial year. This is bound to have an effect on many ratepayers in our community.

I don’t believe that SA Councils will be in the position to pick up the concessions themselves and to do so would create significant inequity between Councils with high numbers of pensioners and those with low numbers as remaining ratepayers would have to contribute more rates to fund them.

Consequently the City of Mitcham voted at its first meeting in December 2014 to let ratepayers know of the impending impact by inserting a flyer into the next Council rates notices alerting ratepayers to the “Bill Shock” and impact the removal of pensioner concessions will have on rates.

So, please I encourage anyone who may be at all concerned to let their State and Federal MPs know and to seek a solution to the issue.

Once again, thank you and I look forward to hearing from you should you have any issue or concern.

Over recent years, I have focused heavily on reducing waste and doing what I can to keep your Council rates as low as possible. I have had a cap placed on Council staffing levels, and helped implement a Council efficiency audit which is now saving hundreds of thousands of dollars every year. Council is implementing service reviews when staff leave - meaning that we do not keep filling and paying for positions that are no longer required. I have also put checks in place to stop blowouts in Council’s legal expenditure. Through the Ratepayers Alliance which I chair, Councillors across South Australia have pledged to not support any rate rise above an averaged inflation rate.

Why are our rates increasing so much? One major reason is money spent on staff. Council now spends around $790,000 every single fortnight on staff salaries. For 2013/14, as actual cash outgoing, we spent $20,523,175 on Council staff.

Ten years ago, the figure was $10,636,507. Our expenditure has almost doubled, far outstripping inflation and driving rates up.

Despite rates continuing to rise, Councils seem to be finding it harder to make real change for communities. A Telstra tower to fix mobile phone reception in Craigburn Farm was delayed by years as it was bounced from one location to another.

Community tennis clubs now find it almost impossible to do simple things such as erect light poles, given the vast scope for complaint. And whilst China can move entire cities to build the Three Gorges Dam, we seem paralysed in our ability to protect more than 2,000 homes (mostly in West Torrens) from flooding. Why? Largely because any solution (whether dam, culvert, or creek widening) costs residents in a different Council.

As a society we demand more, but are less willing to sacrifice for others in our community. Frivolous demands of Council and vexatious complaints about petty issues tie up countless hours and resources. And with ever widening avenues for review and complaint, bold and unpopular (but right) action is not being taken.

This term I will do as Walt Whitman suggested, to “stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labour to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence toward the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown or to any man or number of men” - and I promise to act boldly in the best interests of my Ward, Council, and State.

This article reflects my own views and is not official Council policy.

2015/16 Budget Preparation

66 Year Loans Repayment time At our Budget briefing on 03/02/2015, it was reported that our current loans principal repayments had a 66 year schedule, never previously reported.

Most Councillors at earlier Budget planning sessions wanted loans to be paid off over a 10-15 year schedule, in order to minimise interest costs, but more recent sessions has seen this extended to a 20 year term.

Whilst a 20 year loan principal term is a vast improvement over the 66 years which has been happening, I believe that Council should be economising further, in order to reduce our debt as soon as possible.

Essential and statutorily required maintenance work must be done at our current high standard, but spending on new projects by Council should be cut or delayed until the finances of the community can withstand extra costs. The Global Financial Crisis aftermath is still hitting Australian businesses, and wage rises are a thing of the past for many residents.

Some have lost their jobs.

The mining boom is over. Recent fuel price reductions are welcome, but Santos has reduced staffing and contractors significantly.

Holden will be closing their local manufacturing in 2017. This will have very bad affects on employment in the many small and medium car parts suppliers throughout Adelaide.

The Federal Government’s behaviour towards the promised building of the new submarines by ASC, and the exclusion of the Swedish companies from the Tender process is weird. Is it an extreme cultural cringe, to believe that an Australian company and workers cannot produce a quality vessel? This is more remarkable, given that nearly all of the problems encountered during the building of the Collins Class submarines, were the result of overseas sourced systems which did not work as well as specified.

Once early build problems were resolved, these largest conventionally powered submarines in the world, with superior range and underwater speed, are sufficiently ‘silent’ that during a wargames exercise, one entered San Diego Harbour undetected, and ‘sank’ US capital ships.

The RBA’s recent reduction in the interest rate proves that the Australian economy, whilst better off than most European economies, is under stress.

Many residents have fixed incomes, and have already been hit with water, electricity and gas price rises. It is essential that rates be kept as low as possible.

mitcham community news

April 2015

The Park Ward Cr Tim Hein

Craigburn Ward Cr Karen Hockley

Overton Ward Cr John Sanderson

Telephone: 0403 080 080

Telephone: 0423 919 080

Telephone: 0402 517 945

thein@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

khockley@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

jsanderson@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

It’s been fantastic getting to know the new Elected Members, and embarking on the first few meetings of the new Council, already covering some major issues.

I am overwhelmed and honoured that you have elected me to represent the people of Mitcham.

Thank you Craigburn Ward for giving me a resounding election victory. This is an exciting time for my whole family. I have had to explain to my six year old that, no, I am not the Prime Minister and my eight year old wants to know if I can make a law to ban homework.

Thank You

I think we know how important it is for us to be able to understand one another and work constructively and efficiently together for the sake of all of Mitcham.

I encourage residents to visit a Council meeting if they haven’t ever done so, to observe the reasoning and debate put forward on matters of particular interest. I’m sure they will see the serious and considered way the Elected Members engage with the issues that affect our community.

Of particular interest at present is the Blackwood Masterplan process. Since being included in the budget last year, Administration has been collating previous data, and we’ve had an initial workshop looking at some overview issues. This shall be a fascinating process, which hopefully shall contain some real vision.

Council has also begun the new budget process, and are currently considering its various components. It’s pleasing to see the efficiency savings Administration are both achieving and forecasting. As usual, I’ll be seeking the lowest sensible rate rise possible.

There are, of course, so many essential and excellent services that Council provides, however I’m reminded of the limits to what Council can do in building a rich and healthy community.

I’m also aware of how much of what shapes Mitcham depends on volunteers, organisations, businesses, schools, churches, sporting clubs and the initiative of local residents.

Recently, I have been reading on the changing trends in society and local communities. Recent decades have seen a diminishment in what is known as ‘third place’ communities, that is, the traditional places we connect aside from work and home.

Indeed, many traditional organised ‘third place’ communities have declined. And with the busyness of modern life, there is a sense we are becoming a more isolated society, more lonely. Many people no longer know their neighbours.

One sad by-product of this is that when a seemingly small practical disagreement arises, there’s not the foundation of relationship to buffer and work it through.

I’m reminded how important it is for us to take the initiative to connect with others closer to where we live, and invest in building relationships, and nurturing community connections.

May I encourage residents to take the time to initiate a connection with those living close by? Why not host a street BBQ, or wine and cheese on the front lawn, or invite people for a personal cuppa?

For some this seems obvious, but for an increasing amount of people this may be a novel idea. Who knows what a blessing we might be to someone in our street?

Council will always do what we can in the practical services you expect; but let’s all take initiative to look out for one another, and build the genuine, trusted connections that can facilitate a stronger community.

My homework is not maths or spelling, it’s much nicer than that, it’s talking with and listening to you.

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This is the first occasion I have had to thank Overton Ward residents for their support in returning me as one of your Ward Councillors for another term. Thank you. I will strive to assist you with your Council needs. I also welcome our new Mayor Glenn Spear and new Councillors and in particular my Co-Councillor for Overton Ward Cr Nicholas Economos. I am sure we will work well together over the next four year term.

Street Trees

People are making contact with me, worried about the cuts to pensioner/senior discounts on council rates. I can help by explaining what is happening and what I and my fellow Councillors are doing about it.

Many of our street trees are having a slight trim which has made the streets completed much tidier, and assist residents out walking not dodging tree branches. The Council staff will be in your street very soon.

The Federal Government has cut funding to our State and the State Government has cut funding for pensioner/senior discounts on council rates, effectively passing the cut to Councils. This means Mitcham could be left with a funding shortfall that would either have to be passed on to pensioners/ seniors by cutting their discounts or funded by increasing council rates by around 2.5% to cover the shortfall of $1,200,000 pa.

Budget

With a higher than average population of over 60 year olds, the burden of funding this discount falls disproportionately on younger members of the Mitcham community. This is why support for vulnerable groups is best provided by State or Federal Governments, who can spread the burden more equitably.

Mitcham Council has written to Federal politicians to highlight the impact of cancelling this discount and has requested that the funding be reinstated. We have also participated in a statewide campaign to raise awareness and press for reinstatement.

We may be on the cusp of success as the state opposition and minor parties may prevent the change being passed by parliament. This is good news, however the outcome is still not certain. If you would like to be heard on this issue, please contact your State or Federal representative or send me an email and I will pass on your comments.

Another issue is about your right to vote in Council elections. Many people who are interested in local issues say they are disappointed to be unable to vote because they are not Australian citizens.

The good news is that people who reside in Australia but are not Australian citizens are allowed to vote in Council elections. However, it is necessary to enrol before each election.

If you are a resident and would like to enrol to vote in the next Council election, please let me know and I will make sure to send the form to you. I am also keen to know if you think the current system is fair or if you think that all Australian residents should be included and be able to vote. Please let me know how you feel.

I would love to hear your perspectives on these and other issues, please contact me by email at khockley@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or by phone on 0423 919 080.

Council staff and Elected Members are presently in the middle of preparing a Budget for 2015/2016 financial year including a 10 year Financial Plan.

This work has already taken many hours of staff time and they have presented mostly completed figures to Elected Members for our consideration for amendment and/or additions to enable the Budget and Financial Plan to be finalised in the near future for public consultation.

Traffic Traffic continues to create some concern to residents in numerous streets throughout the Ward. A traffic survey has been completed on the southern end of the Ward around the Repatriation Hospital and this report is still being considered

by Council staff for an outcome. Concern is also in the north eastern corner as well as the vehicle ratrunners coming from South Road and Goodwood Road continues to give residents and Council staff concern.

Sausage Sizzle On a lighter side, Council staff organised a ‘Get to know your neighbours’ sausage sizzle at Rozelle Reserve on 13 March 2015 in conjunction with our good friends Mitcham Rotary Club who provided their mobile BBQ to enable locals to enjoy time together at their local reserve.

There will be more complex issues to report on in the coming months ahead, but if you have a Council issue that you wish to discuss, please telephone me at any time on 8277 1884 so I may be of assistance.

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mitcham community news

April 2015

Outdoor Cinema to Commemorate Anzac Centenary Centennial Park Cemetery will commemorate the Anzac Centenary with an Outdoor Cinema Anzac Tribute on Tuesday 21 April at 6 pm.

Families, friends and children are invited to attend a free screening of Australian World War I film, The Lighthorsemen in the Centennial Park’s Derrick Gardens from 6 pm, to mark 100 years since Australia’s involvement in the First World War. The Lighthorsemen, set during WWI, tells the story of the men of the Australian Light Horse unit who were involved in the 1917 Battle of Beersheeba.

The 3,500 memorial headstones adorned with Australian flags and a light display set on Centennial Park’s Cross of Remembrance, will be a moving backdrop for the Outdoor Cinema Anzac Tribute.

Prior to the screening, a local veteran will lead a twilight tour through Derrick Gardens – Centennial

Park’s post-war commemorative area for service personnel.

Families are welcome to bring a picnic or purchase refreshments and a sausage to help raise funds for service organisations.

For more information please visit www.facebook.com/centennialparkcemetery or www.centennialpark.org

Mitcham Kiwanis working in our Community

Good and Useful Work – Travelling Red Cross War Exhibition

Mitcham Kiwanis is looking for more members to help raise funds for our local community.

A Travelling Red Cross war exhibition Good and Useful Work will be on display in Centennial Park’s Jubilee Complex until the 31 April.

The Club recently cleaned up a car park which is used , during community events, to raise funds to support Kick Start for Kids to provide a computer for the Childhood Cancer Association.

The exhibition traces the history of the South Australian division of the Red Cross through a range of stories, images and objects.

If you would like to join contact the Club Secretary on 8374 3694.

Mitcham Kiwanis Club meets at the Marion Club on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7 pm with interesting speakers on the second meeting of the month.

Jack Wass Legacy Show The Jack Wass Legacy Show, raising funds for Legacy, returns to Blackwood on Saturday 18 April as part of Anzac Day commemorations.

To commemorate the centenary of the First World War, the Concert Band of SA Police will feature well-known songs from both World Wars such as Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag, The White Cliffs of Dover and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.

Get the most out of your Wood Heater this winter With winter fast approaching follow these simple tips to prevent air pollution and ensure you get the most out of your wood heater this winter.

It is that time of year again when everyone is trying to keep warm. Wood heaters that are not properly managed may cause respiratory problems, waste hundreds of dollars a year and harm our environment.

3. Start small

Before using your wood heater inspect flue/ chimney for build up of soot, holes or leaks and remove excessive ash.

4. Burn brightly

To ensure your wood heater operates correctly and efficiently: 1. Burn dry, seasoned, untreated wood Dry seasoned wood burns best. An unseasoned (recently cut) log of firewood can contain about two litres of water. Buying your wood in the summer months from a reputable supplier and storing it properly can save you up to 40% of your operating costs.

Jack Wass Legacy Show will be performed at the Blackwood Memorial Hall, 21 Coromandel Parade, Blackwood on:

Wood from old furniture, pallets or house renovations are not considered appropriate to burn as these materials are often treated.

Saturday 18 April, from 1 pm

2. Store your wood in a dry, ventilated area

Saturday 18 April, from 4 pm

Keep your woodpile staked in a criss-cross way covered in a well-ventilated area so that the wood stays dry.

Tickets are $17 and can be purchased online from www.trybooking.com For more information call 0438 400 033.

Use smaller dry kindling to get your fire established and larger logs for slower burning.

Arrange the logs so that air circulates and better combustion is achieved.

When lighting a cold wood heater, make sure that sufficient, dry kindling is used to establish a good flame. Place two or three crumpled sheets of newspaper and small pieces of wood onto the fire load when first lighting the heater. This burns rapidly, heats the flue and gets the draught going.

The heater should run on a high burn rate (air controls fully open) for five minutes before and 15 to 20 minutes after adding more logs.

If the heater flue is producing smoke for 20 minutes after lighting or refuelling the fire, simply adjust the fuel load and increase the air settings.

The heater’s flue should be cleaned every year to prevent flue fires.

If a neighbour’s wood heater is smoking excessively talk to them about the problem and work together to find a solution. Free mediation services are available from the South Australian Community Legal Centre on 8384 1800.

For more practical advice on the effective and efficient use of wood heaters contact the Environment Protection Authority SA on 8204 2000 or the City of Mitcham on 8372 8888.

mitcham community news

April 2015

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The National Broadband Network rollout throughout the City of Mitcham begins soon The National Broadband Network is an Australia wide project to upgrade the existing fixed line phone and internet network infrastructure.

A rollout plan, released last December, identifies areas of the City of Mitcham as part of the next 161,000 homes and businesses across 42 cities, suburbs and towns in South Australia to receive the National Broadband Network.

Preliminary survey and inspection works to assist in network design and in advance of actual construction starting is underway. It is anticipated that construction will begin mid 2015.

The National Broad Band Network is committed to bringing fast broadband to all Australians as quickly as possible.

For more information: Free call: 1800 687 626 Email: info@nbnco.com.au Web: www.nbnco.com.au

Mitcham is Planting Street Trees this Winter Over 800 street trees will be planted during winter to ensure our beautiful street avenues remain leafy and green.

Throughout Clarence Gardens, Cumberland Park, Westbourne Park, Hawthorn, Kingswood, Netherby, Urrbrae, Melrose Park, Daw Park and Colonel Light Gardens street trees that have died or have been removed due to ill health will be replaced.

The magnificent shady avenues of White Cedar are well-loved features of Westbourne Park, Hawthorn and Kingswood but some trees are decayed and are nearing the end of their lives posing a risk to our community. As part of our winter plantings approximately 50 White Cedar trees will also be replaced with a new low fruiting form of the same species (Melia azedarach ‘Elite’).

The new low fruiting White Cedar trees will eliminate issues caused by the abundant berries.

Help our Young Street Trees to Survive Council will be planting street trees across Mitcham in response to requests from residents.

To ensure the survival of new street trees dispersed across Mitcham residents, who request a new tree, must commit to watering it until it is established.

By watering your new tree you will make a difference to the health of the tree as well as increasing its rate of growth.

Open Day at Urrbrae Wetland Enjoy an open day at the Urrbrae Wetland on Sunday 12 April from 1.30 pm to 4 pm.

The Friends of the Urrbrae Wetland invite you to enjoy illustrated talks on why the Wetland exists, how it was built and how it has developed over the past 17 years.

Sunday 12 April Meet at the Learning Centre for illustrated talks and guided walks at: Illustrated Talks 1.40 pm 2.10 pm 2.50 pm Guided Walks 2 pm 2.30 pm 3.10 pm Special Children’s Walk at 2.30 pm.

Families can also enjoy guided walks through the wetland to discover the beautiful flora and fauna, the bird boxes high in the trees as well as the wetland.

Every Tuesday morning, this energetic group of volunteers, work at the site. At this time of year they are preparing the ground and planting seedlings, some of which they have propagated from plants thriving in the Wetland environment.

For more information about the Wetland visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urrbrae_Wetland

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mitcham community news

April 2015

Have you thought about Volunteering?

Volunteering makes a real difference to people’s lives.

If you have two to three hours a week or fortnight to spare and would like to assist others in your community who find getting out and about challenging we have some options for you: Visit someone in their home or accompany them to join a club or activity, so they are valued, included and a part of the community.

Driving or being ‘a helping hand’ for passengers on the Community Bus makes it possible for passengers to go to their favourite shopping destination or visit the library.

Driving and accompanying someone to appointments or shopping to support their wellbeing.

We offer comprehensive induction as well as training opportunities. Your work will be valued and appreciated. Phone 8372 8860.

Enrich Your Life!

For more information or to book your seat call Deb on 8372 8803.

Men’s Lunch Group Men are invited to come and join our popular ‘Don Juan’ men’s lunch group which has now expanded to two groups.

Don Juan meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at the Mitcham Community Centre before you board the Mitcham Community Bus and enjoy a trip to a different lunch destination.

If it’s not easy for you to get out and about and see others this could be just right for you as transport assistance to the community centre is also available. Funded by Home and Community Care for over 65 (50 ATSI) or younger with a disability.

Help Conserve our Bushland The City of Mitcham is looking for volunteers to help preserve native bushland areas in the foothills.

If you have a passion for native flora and fauna, enjoy working outdoors and would like to develop an ongoing relationship with a unique piece of bushland then volunteer for Council?

Council is looking for enthusiastic bush carers to volunteer on: Dunns Reserve, Glenalta Mountbatten Reserve, Bellevue Heights Kenny Park, Eden Hills Blackwood Hill Reserve, Blackwood (north of football club) General good health and enthusiasm is all that is needed to adopt one of these sites. Volunteers will receive guidance on basic bushcare principles. The main duties on these sites will include minimal disturbance weed control, native plantings, identifying and documenting native plants, mulching and litter control.

All volunteers need to be inducted (which involves a police check) and receive onsite training and supervision. For further information about volunteering on these sites please contact Coordinator Open Space Volunteers on 8372 8888.