NEWS DESK
Restricted gamblers have ‘saved’ $34m
Recreation ‘hub’ includes skate bowl PLANS are being drawn up for a $700,000 “active recreation hub” at Mount Martha’s Eco Park, in Glenisla Drive. Mornington Peninsula Shire’s infrastructure strategy and climate change manager Davey Smith said the project is expected to be completed within 18 months, depending on the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Outgoing Briars Ward councillors Bev Colomb and Rosie Clark pushed for the upgrade of the existing reserve with a “modest” skate/scooter bowl and skate/bike/scooter loop. Other features will include play equipment, picnic tables with shade
cloth, scooter path, parkour equipment, flying fox, basket swing, and multi-use ball court. Construction of an active recreation hub was endorsed by the council last October as being the most appropriate model for a new recreation area at Mount Martha. Community consultation generated 188 submissions, with about 32 per cent opposed to the redevelopment and 68 per cent in support. Of those in support, 14 per cent had concerns about car parking and 17 per cent wanted a bigger skate park. Those supporting the playground concept said they preferred a new
scooter loop/pump track and skate/ scooter bowl, while those against did not want a skate bowl. Officers said Mount Martha Primary School’s council opposed a skate bowl. They said they had received mixed feedback with some submitters strongly against including any skate elements and some supporting the skate bowl. Others suggested the skate elements were “too basic and do not meet the needs of skaters as they do not provide enough of a challenge”. The Glenisla Road site follows the shire backing away from building a skate park near Mount Martha Tennis Club. Stephen Taylor
Nominate a local hero
MORE than $34 million has stayed in the pockets of Mornington Peninsula pokies players prevented from getting their gambling fix during COVID-19 restrictions. Poker machine players across Victoria have saved themselves $1 billion. “COVID-19 is presenting us with a unique opportunity to rethink the dire situation Australia has gotten itself into with the prevalence of gambling,” Alliance for Gambling Reform chief advocate the Reverend Tim Costello said. “Australians lost $25 billion gambling last year – the highest rate of losses per head in the entire world.” The mayor Cr Sam Hearn said gambling-related harm could affect health and community services, education institutions, workplaces and local businesses. “It can take a toll on our personal lives, too, damaging families and straining friendships, especially during these unprecedented times,” Cr Hearn said. “It’s important we support those who may be struggling and are more vulnerable to gambling harm. “Even though people can’t access poker machines during the lockdown, gambling is still accessible online, and we need to support others who may have stopped and are struggling with this change in behaviour.” The Rev Costello said: “Gambling harm impacts more people than most of us realise. The stigma associated with it often prevents people from speaking up or seeking help, and we
must overcome this. “As an addictive product, gambling can be sought out by people to selfsoothe during times of stress. Gambling is also known to increase during economic crises. This is a major concern right now.” If you or someone you know is experiencing issues with gambling, call Gambler’s Help 1800 858 858 or gamblershelp.com.au Stephen Taylor
Flinders hall grant FLINDERS Civic Hall will receive $2.25 million as part of a state government upgrade of pavilions, playgrounds, community centres and other infrastructure in Melbourne’s fastest growing suburbs. The grant was among 28 projects to share in $25 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund which aims to support jobs and business through the coronavirus pandemic. The investment complements a state government building works budget $2.7 billion, which includes $278 million in shovel-ready infrastructure projects to be delivered through local councils. Local government minister Shaun Leane said: “These grants will deliver the local infrastructure communities need and create work for local tradies and businesses as we rebuild from coronavirus. “Each of these projects will ensure rapidly-growing local communities get the facilities they deserve.”
Attention Schools, sporting clubs & community groups
Free advertising listings 2021 Australia Day Local Awards The search is on to find Mornington Peninsula’s most dedicated, generous and community minded people. Do you know someone whose contribution to our community deserves to be recognised? Acknowledge their contribution by nominating them for the 2021 Australia Day Local Awards.
Nominate for: • Citizen of the Year • Young Citizen of the Year • Community Event of the Year Nominations are currently open and close Friday 6 November 2020.
Nominate them now!
mornpen.vic.gov.au/ausdayawards 5950 1137
Each month the Mornington News will run a Community Events page, where your school or organisation can promote upcoming events, fund raisers, social events, etc. at no charge. This page is sponsored by the Mornington Village Shopping Centre and listings are completely free. Listings should be about 40 words and include event name, date, time & address.
Send your listing to:
Community Events
PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or email communityevents@mpnews.com.au PAGE 14
Mornington News
8 September 2020