Cardinia Connect Oct/Nov

Your Council magazine

October–November 2014

Fresh food hub Supporting local farmers and your good health The heat is on

Prepare for bushfire season

Follow the leader

Young people showing the way

Talk, tools and tea A look inside men’s sheds

Welcome

Council contacts

Message from the Mayor

Council offices are open 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday.

Address all correspondence to PO Box 7 Pakenham 3810 Phone: 1300 787 624 Fax: 5941 3784 After hours emergencies: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au Website: cardinia.vic.gov.au National Relay Service (NRS): Customers who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can call through the National Relay Service: TTY users phone 133 677 then ask for 1300 787 624. Speak and Listen (speech-to-speech relay) users phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1300 787 624.

Connect is the official Cardinia Shire Council magazine. It is published six times each year and is distributed to more than 35,000 homes and businesses in Cardinia Shire. It is also available on audio CD from local libraries.

All images and other personal information collected for Connect will be stored securely, and be made available only in accordance with the Information Privacy Act 2000 and in accordance with Council’s Information Privacy Policy, a copy of which may be obtained from Council’s website cardinia.vic.gov.au/privacy For enquiries, contact the editor on 1300 787 624 or editor@cardinia.vic.gov.au Next edition: December 2014–January 2015 Cover photo: Lauren Roberts from Monash Health Community (left) and Steph Ashby from Cardinia Shire Council with some of the produce available from South East Food Hub, a new initiative being supported

by Council.

Photo by: Hilton Stone

Welcome to the October–November edition of Connect magazine.

WALK into any of Cardinia Shire’s eight men’s sheds and you’ll be amazed at the friendships and projects being made there. Men’s sheds ensure that men always have a place to go to bond with one another, exchange ideas, discuss any worries or simply enjoy their hobbies in the company of others. Read all about this growing movement on page 11.

Do you know a Cardinia Shire carer or resident of all abilities who makes an outstanding contribution to our community? Why not nominate them for Council’s first Cardinia Shire All Abilities Awards, to be announced on 3 December – it’s a great way to acknowledge their efforts and achievements. To nominate visit the ‘Access and disability’ section of Council’s website or pick up a nomination form from Council offices or Outlook Community Centre.

Nominations close Wednesday 22 October, 5pm.

My term as Mayor will conclude on 10 November.

I sincerely thank the many Cardinia Shire residents who have given support and feedback during this past year, and my family for their encouragement. As a long-time Nar Nar Goon resident and someone who really cares about our local area, it has been an absolute honour to take on this role. I look forward to continuing to serve the community as a Port Ward councillor, and I extend my best wishes to our next Mayor.

I am hosting a Mayoral charity dinner on Friday 7 November at Cardinia Cultural Centre, with funds raised going to Officer Specialist School.

Tickets will go on sale soon via the centre – I hope to see you there!

Mayor Cr Graeme Moore

Must do …

1. Start collecting items for disposal through Council’s residential hard and green waste collection during October and November. For your property’s collection date and to find out which services are available in your area visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/hardwaste 2. Snap up tickets to see BABBA at Pakenham’s Cardinia Cultural Centre on Saturday 18 October.

This amazing ABBA tribute band will have you dancing up a storm and laughing non-stop!

See this edition’s ‘What’s on’ section for details.

Printing: Blue Star Print is a Forest Stewardship Council, Chain of Custody certified company. All processes are controlled via our Environmental Management System that is certified to ISO 14001.

3. Join your local library – membership and borrowing is free.

Cardinia Shire has branches in Emerald and Pakenham, and a mobile library. You’ll find a wide range of large and regular print, talking and children’s books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, e-books and e-audiobooks for loan. You can even opt to receive SMS messages so you know when items are due for return. Visit cclc.vic.gov.au for more information.

Printed on ecoStar paper made from 100% recycled post-consumer waste.

4. Find out where your household waste goes by taking part in Council’s ‘Follow your waste’ tour, Thursday 13 November, 9.15am–4pm. Places are strictly limited and bookings are required.

To book contact Council on 1300 787 624 or mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au 5. Come along to Council’s free ‘Yoga in the park’ sessions, on every Tuesday during October and November, 10.30–11.30am, Lakeside Amphitheatre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham.

Bring your own yoga mat or towel. All ages welcome.

twitter.com/CardiniaShire

Two-for-one entry to a group fitness class at YMCA Cardinia Life

App for Android and Apple devices

Pay to attend one group fitness class and bring a friend or family member for free! Bookings not required but class sizes are limited. Valid until 31 October 2014.

Subscribe to our eNewsletters

Offer available to ‘health and wellness’ membership holders or casual fee payers. For the group fitness timetable visit cardinialife.ymca.org.au

‘Community compass’ online mapping and information tool

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Cardinia Life 4 Olympic Way, Pakenham

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Ph: 5945 2888 Email: cardinia.life@ymca.org.au

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facebook.com/ CardiniaShireCouncil

Get fit for summer!

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News

Cardinia Shire’s male councillors (from left to right) Collin Ross, Brett Owen, Graeme Moore, David Young and George Blenkhorn show their support for the CHALLENGE Family Violence Project.

In brief ...

Australia Day award nominations NOMINATIONS are open for Council’s Australia Day Awards. The awards recognise citizens, events and community groups making an outstanding contribution to Cardinia Shire.

Winners will be announced at Council’s Australia Day and citizenship ceremony celebrations on Monday 26 January at Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham.

Local men break the silence on family violence

For further information about award categories or to obtain a nomination form visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/australiaday. Forms are also available from Council offices or by calling 1300 787 624. Nominations close Friday 14 November, 5pm.

SEVENTY local male community leaders are taking action to prevent men’s violence against women by participating in the CHALLENGE Family Violence Project.

City of Casey, Cardinia Shire Council, City of Greater Dandenong and Monash Health are partnering to deliver the three-year project, which is modelled on the principles of the White Ribbon campaign.

The Victorian Government’s Department of Justice is funding the initiative. It was officially launched in March last year in response to the high incidence of family violence in the region – the highest in Victoria.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Graeme Moore said while many anti-violence programs focus on intervention, few address the underlying causes of violence using men as agents of change.

“That’s what makes this project so groundbreaking,” Cr Moore said.

“It is about empowering men to stand up to behaviours and attitudes which, left unchecked, can lead to violence. These include sexist

discrimination, using degrading language towards women and enforcing stereotypical and strict gender roles.

“Because men are the main perpetrators of this violence, it’s up to non-violent males to do all it takes to stop it,” Cr Moore said.

Community leaders participating in the program have been trained by twenty male mentors to confront behaviours which lead to violence against women. The leaders come from many different backgrounds and vocations including health, law enforcement, education, faith, government and business.

Cr Moore said these leaders will now go out into the community to put what they have learnt into practice.

“This might involve initiating workplace policies to stamp out gender discrimination or actively challenging unacceptable behaviour against women from other men.

“It’s time to take a stand against family violence and spread the word that it won’t be tolerated,” Cr Moore said.

“It’s time to take a stand against family violence and spread the word that it won’t be tolerated.”

Male residents can make their own pledge to prevent gender violence by signing the Accord at cardinia.vic.gov.au/preventfamilyviolence Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar for details of White Ribbon Day (25 November) events in Cardinia Shire.

Council runs a playgroup to support families affected by family violence. Contact Council’s Family Connections team on 1300 787 624 for more information.

Move to new Civic Centre FINAL preparations are underway for Council’s relocation to the new Cardinia Shire Civic Centre in Officer.

Located at 20 Siding Avenue, the centre will deliver a host of features for customers including fully accessible amenities for customers, up-to-date technology for faster service and close access to public transport.

Service delivery will continue with minimal interruption during the relocation process.

Keep an eye on Council’s website for the latest information about the move.

Help shape central Pakenham COUNCIL invites residents to have their say on the draft Pakenham Structure Plan, which will guide the growth and development of Pakenham’s town centre over the next 20 years.

Residents can view the draft plan at cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay or collect a disk or hard copy from Council offices. Details of upcoming community consultation events on the plan are also available on this web page.

You can comment on the plan by posting a response to Council, attention Strategic Planning team, PO Box 7, Pakenham 3810, or by emailing mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au with ‘draft Pakenham Structure Plan submission’ as the subject.

Submissions close Monday 17 November, 5pm.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2014 | 3

Your Council

Meet … Maternal and Child Health Nurse Sue Weston I joined Cardinia Shire Council …

In 2007 as a member of the maternal and child health home visiting team.

Council’s Maternal and Child Health Nurse Sue Weston (left) with mum Brei and baby Jarrah.

My role involves …

Providing parenting support to families with newborn to school age children.

Our consultations involve growth and development assessments, physical and mental health screening for mothers, lactation and feeding support, information sharing and referral to other agencies as needed. I am currently based at the very busy Pakenham Springs centre where we see over 200 new babies every year.

I started my career …

As a midwife and later became a lactation consultant. Maternal and child health nursing has given me the opportunity to travel a journey with parents and their children beyond the birth and newborn stage. It’s very satisfying to monitor a child’s growth and development and then see them happily head off to kindergarten in good health.

On a typical day …

I see a number of families and give advice on a range of issues. These might include helping with breastfeeding difficulties, providing a referral for a mother battling postnatal depression or giving tips for managing behavioural problems in a toddler. No two children or families are the same.

The best part of my job is …

Seeing new mums and dads develop confidence in their parenting abilities and making small changes to achieve big results.

Spotlight on …

Young Leaders Program THIS Council program is helping to shape our community’s future leaders.

Eleven students from eight Cardinia Shire secondary schools and alternative education institutions will graduate from the 2014 Young Leaders Program on 15 October.

The program helps students who demonstrate leadership qualities to build on these attributes and develop other life skills which can then be put to good use in their schools, homes and the local community. Students are nominated by their teachers to take part in the program.

Participants attended a two-day camp in July where they were motivated and inspired by speakers from Oaktree Foundation, Youth Affairs Council of Victoria and Toastmasters International, as well as by Cardinia Shire’s healthy living ambassador and world champion aerial skier Jacqui Cooper.

Three young people with disabilities also presented on their experience of being leaders in the local community.

Council’s Youth Support Officer Miranda Luck said participants also delivered community projects on a range of issues relevant to their schools including cyber bullying, mental health, fundraising and alcohol.

“Our 2014 ‘graduates’ approached the program with loads of enthusiasm and great attitudes. As a result they have developed skills and knowledge which will serve them well as individuals in the years to come and will benefit the wider community,” Miranda said.

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I am passionate about …

Giving breastfeeding support and advice to new mothers. It isn’t always easy but the health benefits for your baby are truly worth it.

If I could offer future parents one piece of advice it would be …

That parenting is the hardest but best job around! Listen to your kids, always look for the positives in their actions, take time out to nurture yourself and maintain a healthy sense of fun! No problem is too big; just ask for help if you need it.

My hobby is …

Cooking. (Now there’s something I never thought I would say!) I have three teenage girls who love the challenge of completing a Jamie Oliver 15-minute meal recipe in 15 minutes or less, and a husband who loves to eat!

Clockwise from front: Tenielle Cairns, Council’s Youth Services Coordinator Carrolyn Jenyns,Taylah Hood, Sam Love, Erin Rogers and Council’s Youth Support Officer Miranda Luck.

News

Council’s Health Promotion Officer Steph Ashby said residents will love the freshness and full flavour of the produce available from South East Food Hub.

Healthy food special!

What can I order from South East Food Hub? A wide range of vegetables, some fruits including apples, lemons and kiwi fruit, and products such as juices, chutneys and sauces.

Is the produce on offer the same each week?

No – it varies from week to week according to crop yields and what is in season locally.

Is the food fresh?

Very! In many cases it is harvested the day before you collect it.

Is there a minimum order?

No – you can order as little or as much as you like.

Fresh local food from the paddock to your plate CARDINIA Shire residents can now order super fresh fruit and vegies and support our local farmers at the same time thanks to South East Food Hub, a social enterprise project between farmers, local businesses, state and local government agencies, community groups and customers.

The organisation sources top quality, seasonal produce from farms and food producers in Melbourne’s south east. Soon after being harvested it is transported to a warehouse in Dandenong. From here it is delivered to ‘hubs’ around Melbourne, ready for residents and businesses to order online and collect.

Council, Monash Health Community, Outlook Community Centre and Cockatoo Neighbourhood House are supporting the initiative in Cardinia Shire.

Council’s Health Promotion Officer Steph Ashby said Council approached South East Food Hub to expand its service to the Shire as “we recognised how important it was for residents to have access to high quality and competitively priced healthy food”.

“Only about 4 per cent of people in Cardinia Shire eat the recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables, so this increased access to great produce is good for everyone,” Steph said.

South East Food Hub is also good for local business. The venture supports growers and producers in Cardinia Shire including Cafresco Organics (Koo Wee Rup), Summer Snow (Officer) and Jindivick Hydroponics (Labertouche) as well as others in nearby areas such as Clyde, Pearcedale, Mornington Peninsula and Gippsland.

South East Food Hub is supported by Avocare, Cheffields Providore, VicHealth, City of Casey, Cardinia Shire Council, Monash Health Community, Victorian Eco-Innovation Lab (University of Melbourne) and the Australian Food Hubs Network. For more information visit southeastfoodhub.org

How do I place my order?

Vist openfoodnetwork.org.au, choose your collection hub and click on ‘Your shopping cart’ to select goods for purchase.

When do I order?

Online orders open every Wednesday at noon and close on Friday at noon. Orders are available for collection from your chosen hub on the following Tuesday.

Where do I collect my order?

You can select to pick up your order from one of two hubs – Cockatoo Neighbourhood House or Outlook Community Centre in Pakenham. Outlook receives $2 from every order placed through its hub.

Take a healthy bite!

COUNCIL’S Healthy Bites Program is now being delivered in more locations across Cardinia Shire with eateries in Beaconsfield, Bunyip, Garfield, Koo Wee Rup, Pakenham and Officer offering a range of tasty and nutritious meals and snacks.

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/healthybites for more information.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2014 | 5

What’s on October Monday 13

Friday 17

Winning Selling Techniques business seminar

Marketplace Marchers walking group

Casey Civic Centre, Magid Drive, Narre Warren 6–9pm. Cost: $30. CCBG membership discount applies. Contact Lydia Ropiha 9705 5125 or lropiha@casey.vic.gov.au or caseycardinia.com.au/eventscalendar

Wednesday 15 Bunurong Men’s Shed

Third Sunday of every month. Pakenham Football Club, Princes Highway, Pakenham 8–9am. Contact Noel 0422 822 688 or pakenhamfc.com.au

Saturday 18

Bunyip Community House ‘X Factor’ kids competition

E-waste (electronic waste) recycling collection Council depot, Purton Road, Pakenham 9am–2pm.

Contact Council’s waste officer 1300 787 624 or mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Thursday 16

Nature play and your child

7.30pm. For location visit NWC’s Facebook page or contact Richard Stanios 0488 026 881.

Pakenham Community Market

Walk every Friday at Pakenham Central Marketplace, 50–4 John Street, Pakenham 8–9am.

Contact Alison Ryan 5940 4728 or communitycentre@outlookvic.org.au

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am. Meadowvale Retirement Village, Eagle Drive, Pakenham.

Contact president 5941 6869.

Neighbourhood Watch Cardinia (NWC) monthly meeting

Sunday 19

Enjoy a treasure hunt and make pirate hats.

Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Service (community garden), 235 Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup 9.30–11.30am. Contact Aileen Thoms 5997 9681 or thomsa@krhs.net.au or kooweeruphospital.net.au

Bunyip Agricultural Society Spring Ball Bunyip Public Hall, Main Street, Bunyip 7.30pm.

Cost: $35. Contact Joan Harrison 5629 5506 or bunyipag@dcsi.net.au or www.bunyipshow.org.au

Individual or group entry. Bunyip Hall, 38 Main Street, Bunyip 2–5pm.

Cost: $5 to enter.

Contact Davina Veenstra 5629 5877 or davina@bunyipcommhouse.com.au or bunyipcommhouse.com.au

Saturday 25 Business planning basics seminar Location to be confirmed 10am–12pm.

Cost: $20. Contact Living Learning Pakenham 5941 2389 or info@livinglearning.org.au or business.vic.gov.au/businesseventbusiness. vic.gov.au/businessevents

November Sunday 2

Sunday 16

Koowee Community Market

Emerald Market

First Sunday of every month. Koo Wee Rup Community Centre, corner Rossiter Road and Sybella Avenue, Koo Wee Rup 8am–1.30pm.

Contact market coordinator 0418 289 847 or info@kooweemarket.com.au or kooweemarket.com.au

Third Sunday of every month.

Kilvington Drive, Emerald 9am–3pm.

Contact Non Blair or Michelle Perera 5968 3881 or echmarket@iinet.net.au or emeraldcommunityhouse.org.au

Saturday 8

Live music, market stalls, children’s activities and more. Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Service (community garden), 235 Rossiter Road 12.30–4.30pm. Contact Brian Harlow 5997 9687 or harlowb@krhs.net.au

Anaphylaxis awareness course Endorsed by Asthma Foundation Victoria.

Emerald Community House, 356-8 Belgrave–Gembrook Road, Emerald 9.30am–12.30pm. Cost: $60.

Contact Donna 5968 3881 or echadmin@iinet.net.au or emeraldcommunityhouse.org.au

Friday 21 Pakenham Toy Library First and third Wednesdays and Fridays of every month (except school holidays).

Hollins Children’s Centre, 10 Atlantic Drive, Pakenham. For times contact 0468 372 961 or pakenhamtoylibrary@gmail.com

Social cycling group

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Guest speaker paralympian Kurt Fearnley. Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham 7–9am.

Cost: $50.

To book visit trybooking.com/52316

Music on the Grass 2014

Saturday 15 First Sunday and third Saturday of every month. Ride 10–15 kilometres around Pakenham on Saturdays and 30–35 kilometres in other locations on Sundays. Meet at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham. Contact Alison Ryan 5940 4728 or communitycentre@outlookvic.org.au

Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast

Tuesday 25 Wednesday 19 Cardinia Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee meeting Services Central, 6B Henry Street, Pakenham 10am–12pm. Contact Council’s diversity officer 1300 787 624 or mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Cardinia Family Violence Network White Ribbon Day walk Walk down Main Street, Pakenham to say no to family violence 12–1pm.

Contact Kerrie Thorpe 5945 3900 or pakenham.reception@connections.org.au

For more Council and community events visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival 2014 Features a wide range of local activities for older residents during October. Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/seniors to view the program.

Hard and green waste collection Council’s second hard and green waste collection for 2014 starts in late October.

Go to cardinia.vic.gov.au/ communitycompass for collection dates.

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/hardwaste to find out which services are available in your area.

New green waste service available for this collection! For $60 Council will collect an extra two cubic metres of bundled green waste. For bookings and payment (at least two weeks prior to your collection date) contact Council on 1300 787 624.

Library news All events are free.

Bookings are essential.

To book visit www.tinyurl.com/cclcevents or phone the library.

Emerald Library 400B Belgrave–Gembrook Road, Emerald Phone: 5949 4600

Tuesday 7 October 2–3.30pm Demystifying social media COTA Victoria hosts a session for seniors on social media and its uses. Learn about internet safety and ask questions.

Thursday 9 October 2.30–3.30pm Book chat Join this informal gathering with the library team to discuss favourite books and authors.

Wednesday 22 October 5.30–6.30pm History Week 2014 event HMAS Cerberus Naval Museum’s curator presents on the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s naval contingent and Australia’s WWI campaign in German New Guinea.

Yoga in the park Free yoga every Tuesday during October and November. Run by a qualified yoga instructor. Bring a towel or yoga mat.

Lakeside Amphitheatre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham 10.30–11.30am.

December Wednesday 3 Country Women’s Association Pakenham branch meeting Guide Hall, Henry Street, Pakenham 9.30am–2.30pm. Contact Vicky Birch 5940 4651 or vickyken@bigpond.com

Friday 12 Pakenham Blue Light Disco A drug and alcohol free event for young people aged 9–14. Pakenham Hall, corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham 6.30–9pm. Contact Sharon Peterson or Cath Emmett 5945 2500 or bluelight.org.au

Cardinia Cultural Centre Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham Phone: 1300 887 624 Email: ccc@cardinia.vic.gov.au

October Wednesday 15 Morning melodies The Seekers tribute show with Leslie Martin.

Morning tea 10am; show 11am. Tickets: $15.

Saturday 18 BABBA The ABBA tribute show 6pm. Tickets: $65 dinner and show.

November Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 Psychic development workshop and show with Sue Nicholson See how Sue connects to the spirit world and learn how to tap into your own psychic ability. Visit suenicholson.co.nz for details.

Tickets: $395 show and workshop; $369 workshop only; $60 show only.

Tuesday 28 October

December

4–5pm Halloween storytime Dress up for Halloween and hear spooky stories with Miss Wendy. For ages 4 to 7.

Wednesday 3

Saturday 8 November 11am–1pm Antiques roadshow with Lester DeVere View a variety of antiques and learn about their history and potential value. Receive a free valuation for one item.

Pakenham Library Corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham Phone: 5940 6200

Wednesday 8 October 6–7.30pm Managing anxiety session Bev Aisbett has written 10 books on dealing with anxiety including Taming the Black Dog. She will talk about how to manage anxiety by controlling stress and using healthier thinking patterns.

Casey–Cardinia Library Corporation operates public library services for Cardinia Shire Council in Pakenham and Emerald. Cardinia Mobile Library visits the following suburbs and townships every week: Beaconsfield, Bunyip, Cockatoo, Garfield, Gembrook, Koo Wee Rup, Lang Lang, Maryknoll, Tynong and Upper Beaconsfield. Library membership is free.

For more information on all library services including mobile library locations, dates and times visit cclc.vic.gov.au

Morning melodies Issi Dye’s special Christmas show.

Morning tea 10am; show 11am.

Tickets: $15.

For more events visit cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au

Council meetings Open to the public. Meetings are held in the Council chambers at Council offices, Henty Way, Pakenham (unless otherwise advised and until Council relocates to the new Civic Centre in Officer. Please check Council’s website for meeting locations).

Phone: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

October Monday 20 Council meeting 7pm

November No Town Planning meeting – Melbourne Cup eve

Monday 10 Statutory Council meeting 7pm

Monday 17 Council meeting 7pm

December Monday 1 Town Planning meeting 7pm

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2014 | 7

Feature

Pakenham Bowls Club member Roy Harvey squeezes in a game before the rain arrives.The club is participating in the Save It For the Game Program to reduce its energy costs.

It’s ‘game on’ for energy efficiency

A chilling fact!

As a result of the Save It For The Game Program energy audit, a Cardinia Shire sporting club was shocked to learn that a fridge was costing the club a whopping $4.82 per day to run.

The appliance is now turned off between matches. This simple yet effective measure is expected to save the organisation over $1500 each year in energy costs.

Council’s Environment Officer Brett Munckton (left) with Pakenham Bowls Club President Kevin McDonald.

SIX local sporting clubs are participating in a program to help save energy and reduce their electricity bills.

Energy costs are a big expense for sporting clubs, which is why Council is supporting the Save It For The Game Program.

The project is being funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry through its Energy Efficiency Information Grants Program, and is being delivered in Cardinia Shire by South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA) in partnership with Council.

Sporting clubs taking part in the program across the Shire include Beaconsfield Tennis Club, Bunyip Football Club, Emerald Junior Football Club, Koo Wee Rup Cricket Club and Pakenham football and bowls clubs.

As part of the program, SECCCA monitored the electricity and gas usage of participating clubs in early 2014. Individual audit reports were distributed to clubs and Council in August.

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Council’s Environment Officer Brett Munckton said clubs are now implementing and considering ways to slash their energy bills based on advice and findings in their report.

“This may involve upgrading appliances and equipment such as lighting, fridges, urns, vending machines and hot water systems, and educating club members to make simple behavioural changes such as turning lights off and using timer systems,” Brett said.

Local clubs participating in the program are eligible to apply for grants to help fund energy efficiency improvements through Council’s Community Capital Works Grants Program.

Council’s Environment and Recreation teams will support the clubs as they make changes.

Council’s Recreation Development Officer Liam Fitzpatrick said because sporting facilities

are managed by community volunteers and often used by several different clubs during the year, keeping a lid on energy use can be challenging.

“Rising energy costs result in increased club membership costs, which strain club and family finances and result in less people playing sport.

“By showing clubs how easy it can be to cut their energy bills, this project will help to make sport more affordable for Cardinia Shire families,” Liam said.

Council is passing on advice and tips from the program to all sporting clubs in Cardinia Shire so they too can reap the rewards.

Feature

Council’s Community Risk and Emergency Manager Myles O’Reilly advises residents to remove bark and twigs from their property to reduce bushfire risk.

Burning off in Zone 2 As part of Council’s Open Air Burning Policy, certain burning off restrictions for properties in Zone 2 will be lifted from 1 October 2014 until the CFA declares the fire danger period.

Subject to approval from Council’s burns register, if you live in a Zone 2 property you will be allowed to burn off from Monday to Saturday during daylight hours, but only until the fire danger period is declared.

During this period all Cardinia Shire property owners will need to comply with CFA restrictions on burning off. For more information visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ openairburning or call Council on 1300 787 624.

“It is also important to have working smoke alarms and a written bushfire survival plan which has been rehearsed by all members of your household.

Get ready for the bushfire season CARDINIA Shire is one of the highest bushfire risk areas in Victoria, so it’s important to start taking precautions now to ensure your property is in a fire-safe condition for summer.

To reduce the risk of fire in our municipality, Council will conduct fire inspections on all private properties across the Shire from Monday 3 November.

Council’s Community Risk and Emergency Manager Myles O’Reilly said people don’t need to live in the ‘country’ to be vulnerable to the threat of fire.

eep gutters and roofs clear of leaf litter • k

ove flammable items away from decks and • m verandahs including furniture and doormats

To assess how prepared you are for the bushfire season visit cfa.vic.gov.au For more information on fire inspections visit the ‘Emergency information’ section of Council’s website at cardinia.vic.gov.au

se pebbles or rocks in your garden rather • u than mulch • s tore flammable liquids away from the house and in flame proof containers

nsure mature trees are pruned regularly • e and overhanging branches are cut back

To prepare your property for the bushfire season, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) advises you to:

eep large shrubs away from windows and • k cut lower branches so they do not ignite fuels on the ground.

• r emove dry grass, leaves, twigs, weeds and loose bark from around your property

“The importance of leaving bushfire-prone areas early cannot be overstated; this means leaving well before extreme or code red conditions are announced. In these conditions fire will travel incredibly fast and can change speed and direction in seconds. Staying put to see how things develop is not a risk anyone can afford to take.”

• s tore woodpiles away from your house

“Many Cardinia Shire residents are at risk from fires, especially if they live in the interface between rural and urban areas, and in other areas with lots of bush or grasslands,” Myles said.

• k eep grass short so it is always less than 10 centimetres

“If you live in a high fire risk area, keep a careful eye on weather conditions over summer and monitor ABC Radio 774 and the CFA website regularly, especially on high fire danger days,” Myles said.

rune shrubs so branches are kept clear • p of mature trees

Myles gives some fire safety tips to Emerald resident Deb Woods.

“If your household can tick off every item on this list, it could really make all the difference in the event of a bush or grass fire,” Myles said.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2014 | 9

Connections

Manisha and her son Arjun enjoy the great outdoors at Tiny Turtles playgroup.

Playgroups are perfect for young families

Did you know…

DURING October many primary schools across Cardinia Shire are participating in ‘Activate 2014’, a VicHealth initiative being delivered by Council.

The program encourages students to actively travel to school by walking, riding, scooting or skating. Visit walktoschool.vic.gov.au for details.

PLAY is vital to young children’s learning and development.

Local playgroups give babies, toddlers and preschoolers the chance to have fun while building their language, social and motor skills, and allow parents and carers to connect with others raising young children.

Cardinia Shire has playgroups in many locations including Bayles, Bunyip, Cockatoo, Emerald, Garfield, Gembrook, Koo Wee Rup, Lang Lang, Maryknoll, Pakenham, Tynong and Upper Beaconsfield.

Most playgroups are run by parents or carers and are free or very affordable to attend. Groups often meet in community or children’s centres, or parks or playgrounds.

“Our ‘Tiny Turtles’ playgroup connects families in Officer, while ‘Small Steps’ supports families with children under six who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence.”

Belinda says while the benefits of playgroups for children are clear, “parents and carers often gain just as much out of the experience as their little ones”.

“Parenting young children can be quite lonely, especially if you have few friends in the same situation.

“Playgroups are a great place to form new friendships, swap stories, share experiences, offer and receive support and develop parenting skills and confidence,” Belinda said.

Council also manages the Supported Playgroups and Parent Groups Initiative (SPPI) in Cardinia Shire. As part of this program the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development provides grants to organisations that run playgroups or parent groups for vulnerable or disadvantaged families.

Council supports Cardinia Shire’s playgroups in a number of ways. It provides advice to parents and carers on starting up and running playgroups, coordinates network meetings, links families with services and support, and offers training opportunities and information sessions.

Council’s Family Connections Facilitator Belinda Potts said Council also runs two supported playgroups, both of which are held weekly during school term.

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“Playgroups help to give children a great start in life,” Belinda said.

“Council is proud to support Cardinia Shire’s wide range of vibrant and valuable playgroups.”

For more information on playgroups in your local area visit playgroup.org.au For advice on starting a playgroup contact Council’s Family Connections team on 1300 787 624.

CASEY Cardinia Business Group is offering half price memberships to all new business operators who join – but hurry, it’s for a limited time only!

The group is the largest business network in the Casey Cardinia region. It offers networking and training events to help local business people strengthen and grow their business. Members also enjoy free or discounted access to events including the popular Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast Series.

For more information visit caseycardinia.com.au/ccbg

Connections

Emerald Men’s Shed members with some of their woodworking creations.

Fun and friendship for the fellas CARDINIA Shire’s men’s sheds are giving men a place to enjoy old hobbies and learn new ones, make friends and feel supported.

About 200 men of all ages and cultural backgrounds are part of Cardinia Shire’s men’s shed movement.

The Shire’s eight sheds are located in Bunyip, Cockatoo, Emerald, Koo Wee Rup, Lang Lang, Pakenham (Bunurong and Cardinia sheds) and Upper Beaconsfield.

Men’s sheds are not-for-profit organisations mainly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments and by donations and fundraising.

Monash Health also provides significant support to Cardinia Shire’s men’s sheds.

Council contributes funds to local men’s sheds through its Community Capital Works Grants Program. Council’s Community Strengthening team also supports their activities.

Emerald Men’s Shed President Mike Allery says men’s sheds are “just like your average backyard shed, only less lonely and better for your health!”

“Men are taught to keep a lid on emotions, and as a result we often suffer in silence or feel that no one cares,” Mike said.

“It’s a bit like the town square! We gain a lot from the local community and give a lot back too,” Mike said.

The popularity of men’s sheds is growing quickly, with about 1000 sheds registered with Australian Men’s Shed Association across Australia.

Some men first become involved to access tools and materials, but Mike said most soon find the sheds have much more to offer.

“When new members join, I show them the drop saw, wood lathe and timber supplies.

“Then I point to our coffee table and say ‘But this is our best piece of equipment!’”

“Men’s sheds are all about removing that lid, helping others and asking for help if it’s needed.

“Members are encouraged to talk about their problems and discuss mental or physical health issues with each other, however difficult or embarrassing they may seem,” Mike said.

“We also aim to recognise when people are doing it tough and give support.”

Activities happening in and around these sheds are as interesting and varied as the men who visit them. They include carpentry, gardening, home repairs, cleaning, restoration projects, groundskeeping, working bees and mentoring young people.

The sheds are particularly popular with older men who are no longer working or semi-retired, some of whom are isolated, coping with illness or injury or simply looking to get out of the house and spend time with like-minded people.

Emerald Men’s Shed opened in 2012 and is located next to Worrell Reserve. Open two-anda-half days a week, members enjoy carpentry, repairing bikes and carrying out small ‘handyman’ jobs for local residents. Many also bring their own materials to the shed to complete projects while enjoying company and friendship.

Mike said the shed’s central Emerald location means residents often drop in to donate materials, have a chat, check out the bikes for sale or simply come to find out what the shed is all about.

Want to join a men’s shed?

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/community directory for contact details for men’s sheds in Cardinia Shire.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2014 | 11

Looking forward Cr Brett Owen Ranges Ward

From your councillors

Cr Leticia Wilmot Ranges Ward

Phone: 0418 993 370 Email: b.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au Unfortunately the media cannot always report on the full debate at Council meetings.

To gain a better understanding of the reasoning behind Council’s decision making you can access the audio podcast of meetings on Council’s website.

We have many active ‘friends’ groups which work to look after our public bushland reserves. Over 2000 volunteer hours annually are spent protecting and preserving flora and fauna. We thank all these volunteers for their amazing contribution.

Cr Tania Baxter Ranges Ward

Phone: 0427 135 879 Email: L.Wilmot@cardinia.vic.gov.au Do you know someone who makes an outstanding contribution to the local community? Maybe there is a community event or organisation you feel should be recognised. Why not consider nominating them for a 2015 Cardinia Shire Australia Day Award. There are a number of different categories including Citizen, Senior Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year. Nominations close Friday 14 November, 5pm. For details visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/australiaday

Cr Collin Ross Central Ward

Phone: 0427 528 358 Email: t.baxter@cardinia.vic.gov.au Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival features a wide range of activities happening across the local area, with many hosted by community groups. This year we have set up another ‘mobile councillor office’ where you can meet your Ranges Ward councillors. Please take the opportunity to have a cuppa and chat about local issues important to you on Tuesday 21 October at Emerald Evergreens Senior Citizens Club, corner of Anne and Church streets, 10–11am. All welcome!

Cr George Blenkhorn Central Ward

Phone: 0428 598 491 Email: c.ross@cardinia.vic.gov.au I have been an ambassador for the White Ribbon Foundation for over 10 years, signified by the ribbon I wear on the lapel of my suit jacket at all times. White Ribbon makes a stand on men’s violence against women. Council is also taking a stand with its Challenge Family Violence Project, which is based on the principles of the white ribbon movement. See Council’s online events calendar for local community events happening on White Ribbon day on 25 November.

Phone: 0429 139 902 Email: g.blenkhorn@cardinia.vic.gov.au Victorian Government funding for our Shire has not kept pace with our growth, resulting in less educational opportunities, poorer quality medical facilities and much lower local employment prospects than those available to inner Melbourne residents. I find this to be totally unacceptable. Before the State election please ask all candidates in the Bass, Gembrook and Narracan electorates about how they would address these issues, and get specific commitments from them.

Cr Kate Lempriere Central Ward Phone: 0427 371 263 Email: k.lempriere@cardinia.vic.gov.au Careful planning, an emphasis on sustainability, accessible community services, new schools and development, disability amenities, better public transport. Big push to obtain funding for major infrastructure. Discussions on investment and employment. Looking closely at road surfaces and underground drainage and overall maintenance services, including roads, drains, footpaths. Policing increased, graffiti contained but has troughs and flows.

Casey Cardinia Business Awards and a visit from the Governor of Victoria in October!

Cr Graeme Moore Port Ward

Cr Jodie Owen Central Ward Phone: 0427 294 893 Email: j.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au It is really exciting to see new facilities opening, more people moving into this great municipality and more jobs being created. Making inroads with tagging vandalism, but I need your help to make sure all tags are photographed and reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. If you dob in a tagger you may be eligible to receive a $500 reward if the report leads to the arrest or charge of an offender.

Cr David Young Port Ward

Phone: 0400 167 844 Email: g.moore@cardinia.vic.gov.au Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival is on during October – visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/seniors.

Activities include dancing, a road safety session, gentle exercise classes and an afternoon of entertainment and singing from Lang Lang Primary School’s choir. Port Ward councillors are hosting a morning tea on Wednesday 22 October at Bunyip Aged Care, 10–11am. My fellow ward councillor David Young and I will be very happy to chat or respond to any queries.

Phone: 0427 455 798 Email: d.young@cardinia.vic.gov.au After the mild start to winter it turned cold and bleak, but it improved markedly and has been a good spring so far.

I look forward to catching up with many of our older residents during Seniors Festival celebrations. It is pleasing to see so many actively involved in the community.

On 20 November the Gippsland Men Shed Cluster Muster meets at Lang Lang. The mens shed movement has re-engaged many men in their local communities.

Views expressed in ‘Looking forward’ are those of the Ward councillors.

Cardinia Shire Ranges Ward • Avonsleigh • Beaconsfield • Beaconsfield Upper • Clematis • Cockatoo • Dewhurst • Emerald

• Gembrook • Guys Hill • Menzies Creek • Mount Burnett • Nangana • Officer • Pakenham Upper

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Port Ward • Bayles • Bunyip • Bunyip North • Caldermeade • Cardinia • Catani • Cora Lynn • Dalmore • Garfield

Central Ward • Garfield North • Heath Hill • Iona • Koo Wee Rup • Koo Wee Rup North • Lang Lang • Lang Lang East • Longwarry

• Maryknoll • Modella • Monomeith • Nar Nar Goon • Nar Nar Goon North • Nyora • Officer South

• Pakenham South • Rythdale • Tonimbuk • Tooradin • Tynong • Tynong North • Vervale • Yannathan

• Pakenham