Cardinia Connect: February - March

Your Council magazine

February–March 2015

Get back to nature Explore beautiful Mt Cannibal Book it in!

New health hub

Word on the street

Get face-to-face with Council

Service boost for Shire

Maintaining our road network

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Welcome

Council contacts

Message from the Mayor

Cardinia Shire Council Civic Centre is located at 20 Siding Avenue, Officer and is open 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday.

Address all correspondence to PO Box 7 Pakenham 3810

Welcome to the February–March edition of Connect magazine.

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

MEETING local people at events such as the recent Australia Day celebrations has been a highlight of my first few months as Mayor, and reminded me why Cardinia is such a great place to live.

So much fantastic work is done by volunteers in our community. Recognising their work and encouraging others to lend a hand will be a priority for me as Mayor.

I am also committed to ensuring Council builds on its platform of community engagement. It is important to us that you feel connected to what is happening in your suburb, township and the Shire as a whole, and that you have a say on issues that matter to you. To provide feedback on draft Council plans, strategies and policies visit the ‘Have your say’ web page on our website.

Please continue to let us know what we are doing well, and where we can improve.

One project that will benefit greatly from your input is Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

The plan will help us to better engage with and meet the needs of Aboriginal people in Cardinia Shire. Visit our website for details of community consultation workshops about the plan, to be held in late February.

Maintaining and improving the Shire’s large unsealed road network is an ongoing focus for Council. Turn to page 8 to find out more tabout these works.

Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot

Must do …

For enquiries, contact the editor on 1300 787 624 or editor@cardinia.vic.gov.au

1. Our huge Sustainability Expo is happening on Saturday 2 May at Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham from 10am–3pm – make a note in your calendar now so you don’t forget!

Get inspired to live more sustainably, be kinder to the planet, reduce waste and save money at this fun and fascinating day out for the whole family.

Next edition: April–May 2015 Cover photo: Nar Nar Goon residents Lauren Brown (left) and Nickola Oliver enjoy their walk at Mt Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve.

2. Get your groove on at our Summer Music Series at Emerald Lake Park, on every Sunday afternoon during February from 12.30pm. See this edition’s ‘What’s on’ section for details.

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

3. Discover the spectacular views at one of Cardinia Shire’s most beautiful bushland reserves – Mt Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve in Garfield. Go to page 4 of this edition to find out more about this hidden gem!

4. Cardinia Cultural Centre has great events coming up to entertain all ages. The kids will love April school holiday screenings of Postman Pat: The Movie and How to Train Your Dragon 2, and the ‘big kids’ won’t want to miss The Paris Underground Cabaret on Saturday 21 March or Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow on Saturday 2 May. Visit cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au for bookings and information.

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

5. Our teenage school holiday program in April is set to be huge! Don’t miss the excursion to see The Lion King at Regent Theatre on Wednesday 1 April – it’s going to be awesome!

To book in for activities or for more information contact 1800 4 YOUTH (1800 496 884) or visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/youth

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This pass entitles you to one hour of FREE court hire at Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre, including equipment hire.

Valid until Tuesday 31 March 2015.

Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre 11 Webster Way, Pakenham Phone: 5940 8510 Email: prtc@ymca.org.au Open Monday to Thursday 12.30−9pm, Friday 12.30−8pm, Saturday 8am−5pm.

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‘Community compass’ online mapping and information tool

Enjoy a free game of tennis!

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News

In brief ...

Council’s Social and Community Planning Team Leader Petrina Dodds Buckley (left) and Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot look over plans for the new health facility.

Australia Day accolades AUSTRALIA Day Awards were given to outstanding citizens from the Cardinia Shire community at the Pakenham celebrations last month.

Darren Spargo was named Citizen of the Year for his contribution to the Scouts, Pakenham Carols by Candlelight, Council’s Sustainability Expo, Nar Nar Goon Primary School Council, Pakenham Rotary (1996–2006) and Pakenham Masonic Lodge (2012–14).

Awards were also presented for Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Services Award, Community Organisation of the Year and Community Event of the Year. For a full list of winners visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/australiaday

Time for turf cricket A NEW turf wicket at Beaconsfield Recreation Reserve will give local cricketers a taste of playing in the big league.

The turf wicket will be the first in Cardinia Shire, and will give local cricketers better opportunities to move into higher levels of competition.

The project is a joint initiative of Council, Beaconsfield Cricket Club and the Victorian Government’s Local Facilities for Local Clubs Program. Council expects the wicket to be ready for the summer 2015–16 cricket season.

Health hub for Cardinia Shire

Caring for children in Officer

COUNCIL’S former offices in Henty Way, Pakenham will soon be transformed into a one-stop-shop health facility, providing you with access to a huge range of health and welfare services.

The Pakenham Community Health Hub will offer a range of public and non-government health services from the one location, potentially including dentists, GPs, pathologists, pharmacists and clinical specialists, as well as early childhood services and mental health services. Council will partner with Monash Health to deliver the health hub and attract service providers.

The design for the care centre is being finalised and construction and refurbishment is expected to start early in 2015. The Victorian Government has committed $6.2 million to the project and Council will provide the use of the land and existing building.

Council’s Social and Community Planning Team Leader Petrina Dodds Buckley said Council has been working with Monash Health to make the hub a reality for around two years.

“On average, we have four babies born each day to Cardinia Shire families and the population is expected to more than double in the next 20 years, putting pressure on local health services,” Petrina said.

“Residents currently have to leave Cardinia Shire to access many essential health care services; this centre will address the gap and bring these services closer to home. It will deliver a wide

range of health services to individuals and families across the municipality.”

Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot said using the Henty Way site would continue the tradition of serving the community from that location.

“It is fantastic to see that the site of the former Council offices will continue to serve the community’s needs. The site was chosen for this centre because it is close to central Pakenham and local bus services, and has plenty of parking,” Cr Wilmot said.

“We are all looking forward to Cardinia Shire residents being able to access so many health services so close to home.”

COUNCIL and the Victorian Government are funding a new children’s centre in Officer.

The centre in Curran Drive is expected to open in January 2017. It will provide kindergarten, maternal and child health services and a community space suitable for playgroups, parenting programs and community activities.

Council is contributing $2.1 million to the project and the Victorian Government will provide an additional $650,000.

Playgrounds to be upgraded COUNCIL is purchasing and installing new play equipment at four reserves across Cardinia Shire.

From mid-March, existing equipment will be removed and shiny new equipment will be installed at Cora Lynn Recreation Reserve, Cora Lynn; Thwaites Park, Lang Lang; Homegarth Reserve, Pakenham and Sutherland Park Recreation Reserve, Upper Beaconsfield.

Swings in various playgrounds around the Shire are also being replaced.

Council is funding these works at a cost of $120,000.

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Your Council

Meet … Customer Service Officer Louise Both My role at Council involves …

Working in the customer service department, where I respond to phone calls, counter enquiries and emails from residents, business operators and other people outside the organisation. I answer enquiries on a huge range of topics, including pet registrations, waste collection services, rates, roads and drainage maintenance, events and requests to meet with staff.

I started my career …

In the banking industry and since then, every role I’ve had has involved customer service. I enjoy talking to people and helping them to resolve an issue or come up with the information they need.

The best part of my job is …

My colleagues and friends in customer service; they are the reason I work at Cardinia! We work very well as a team and if I don’t have the answer to a question, there’s a good chance the person sitting next to me will.

It’s really nice when you are able to help someone and they appreciate your assistance.

The biggest challenge I face in my role is …

Trying to stay ‘in-the-know’ about everything Council is doing in our rapidly growing and changing Shire. We have lots of facilities, and there are also many programs, services and events happening at any one time. Many staff also specialise in certain areas and it’s hard to know exactly who does what.

Fortunately, Cardinia staff are really helpful and great to deal with, and together we can usually resolve the situation.

Residents may find it handy to know …

That Monday is by far our busiest day. However if you leave a message we will definitely call you back.

Also, we may not be able to answer your query straight away, but we will do our very best to find someone who can.

I have lived in Cardinia Shire …

Since 1992, when we built our first home in Pakenham and later moved to Garfield. Garfield is a beautiful spot and has the best of both worlds; it has a ‘country’ feel yet Pakenham is only a short drive away.

Spotlight on …

Mt Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve DO you enjoy exercising in the bush surrounds of the 1,000 Steps, but find it too crowded? Then you’ll love the stunning Mt Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve; it’s right on your doorstep in Garfield, has wonderful views and will give you a great workout.

The 53-hectare bushland reserve features a 2.2 kilometre loop track which takes about 50 minutes to walk. Because the track is steep in parts it is best suited to those who are moderately fit.

While the climb may leave you a little out of breath, the views from the top of Mt Cannibal’s distinctive flat peak are well worth the effort; you can see Black Snake Range to the north and Western Port Bay and beyond to the south.

The reserve has an extraordinary range of native plants including over 50 varieties of orchids. It also features striking rock formations and plenty of wildlife including echidnas, kangaroos and wallabies.

Council maintains the reserve with the considerable help of the active Friends of Mt Cannibal conservation group.

The reserve has a sheltered picnic table and barbecue, an additional two picnic tables, swings and amenities.

Getting there Take the Garfield North Road exit off the Princes Freeway then continue for 2.5 kilometres to the main entrance.

For trail notes visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ environment or drop into our Customer Service Centre at 20 Siding Avenue, Officer.

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News

Council’s Statutory Planner Ricardo Ramos, Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot and Customer Service Officer Mridula Krishna look over some plans. Meetings with Council officers, including Ricardo, can now be made via our new appointment booking system.

Council on call for residents THE new Cardinia Appointment Booking System allows you to book an appointment with a Council officer at a time that suits you – giving you greater access to Council than ever before.

Your appointment with a Council officer can happen via phone, teleconference, face-to-face or video conference – whichever you prefer!

“We want residents to have an excellent customer service experience with Council each and every time they get in touch,” Cr Wilmot said.

Once your appointment booking request is received, our Customer Service team will liaise with the relevant department to confirm your preferred meeting date and time with a Council officer.

“Most queries will be able to be resolved by calling our customer service centre and speaking to one of our hardworking team members,” Cr Wilmot said.

You will then receive an email to confirm who you’ll be meeting with and your appointment time. If no one is available at your preferred time, an alternative date and/or time will be proposed until a time is found that suits both participants.

Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot said the new booking system allows you to have direct contact with Council on the issues that are most important to you.

“However if you do have an issue that requires further follow-up, such as a planning application query or a road maintenance issue, it’s great to know this option is available.”

To use our system, you will first need to undertake a simple registration process. Once registered, you can log in at any time to request an appointment.

For more information call our Customer Service team on 1300 787 624.

How to use the Cardinia Appointment Booking System To register

To request an appointment

• Visit Council’s website (cardinia.vic.gov.au) and click on the ‘Cardinia Appointment Booking System’ button at the bottom of the home page or go to cardinia.vic.gov.au/appointment

Once you have registered, you can simply log in to the system via the home page of Council’s website and follow these steps: 1. Click on ‘Create a new appointment’

5. Select your preferred date and time to meet according to the availability shown in the calendar

• Register to use the system by providing your name, a username, contact details and your preferred method of contact.

2. In the drop-down menu, select:

6. Click on ‘Submit request’.

• A web link will be sent immediately to your email address. Click on the link to activate your account.

4. Provide additional information regarding why you would like to meet

–– the Council department your enquiry relates to

You will then receive an email to confirm your appointment request.

–– reason for your meeting request

Confirmation of your booking will be emailed to you within one business day. If a Council officer is not available at your requested time, you will be contacted regarding another proposed appointment time.

–– how you would like to meet (face-to-face, video conference, phone call or teleconference) 3. Provide your reference number (if applicable)

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What’s on February

March

Saturday 7

Sunday 1

Sunday 15

Twilight movie night

Koowee Community Market

Pakenham Community Market

A teddy bears picnic and screening of Paddington. Toomuc Reserve, Princes Highway, Pakenham 6.30pm.

Cost: by donation. Contact Wendy Andrews 0417 169 183 or lakesidecommunity@ymail.com

First Sunday of every month. Cochrane Park, corner Rossiter Road and Sybella Avenue, Koo Wee Rup 8am–1.30pm. Contact market committee 0418 289 847 or info@kooweemarket.com.au or kooweemarket.com.au

Third Sunday of every month. Stalls available for booking for $20 (free for not-for-profit and community organisations). Pakenham Football Club, Princes Highway, Pakenham 8am–1pm. Contact Noel 0422 822 688 or pakenhamfc.com.au

Wednesday 4

Thursday 19

Bicycle maintenance session

Country Women’s Association Pakenham Branch meeting

Neighbourhood Watch Cardinia meeting

Guide Hall, Henry Street, Pakenham 9.30am–2pm. Contact Vicky Birch 5940 4651 or vickyken@bigpond.com or cwaofvic.org.au

Third Thursday of every month.

Pakenham CFA station, 780 Princes Highway, Pakenham 7.30pm. Contact David Farrelly 0417 887 108 or nhwcardinia@outlook.com

Saturday 14

Saturday 21

Young Observers night

Pakenham and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Show Great activities, stalls and displays for the whole family. PB Ronald Reserve, corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham 9am–5pm.

Contact Secretary Anita Rovers 0408 117 709 or pakenhamshow1@bigpond.com or www.pakenhamshow.org.au

Covers how to choose the correct bike size and adjust it so it’s right for you, and how to maintain and repair your brakes, gears and chain. Push Bike Shop, 1/206 Princes Highway, Pakenham 6.30–9pm. Cost: free. Supported

by Council, Cardinia Bicycle Users Group and Push Bike Shop. Contact Outlook Community Centre 5940 4728 or communitycentre@outlookvic.org.au

Sunday 29 Neighbour Day ‘HELLO’

Health and nutrition seminar – ‘Chewing the fat’ Nutritionist and weight loss specialist Jessica Simonis talks about why we gain weight.

Learn how to tune into the messages your body is sending you to achieve weight loss.

Brought to you by Outlook and Active Ambition Personal Training. Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham 1–2.30pm.

Cost: gold coin donation.

Second Saturday of every month 7.30pm.

Families are invited to bring children along to view the night sky through telescopes.

Cost: $5 per child.

Mount Burnett Observatory, 420 Paternoster Road Mount Burnett.

Contact info@mtburnettobservatory.org or mtburnettobservatory.org

Get to know your neighbours by holding a street party or barbecue, or simply invite them over for a cuppa and a chat. The community you want starts at your front door! Visit neighbourday.org.au for information.

Saturday 14 Koo Wee Rup Pool party Live music and activities for young people.

Koo Wee Rup outdoor pool, Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup 12–4pm. Cost: $5 (includes all activities, barbecue and entertainment).

April

Sunday 15

Sunday 5

Thursday 9

Emerald Lake Park Easter treasure hunt

PAVE Festival’s Emerald FunFest

Emerald Market Third Sunday of every month. Around 80 stalls, including local produce, wine, crafts, clothing, toys and plants. Kilvington Drive, Emerald 9am–3pm. Contact Non Blair or Christine Sutton 5968 3881 or echmarket@iinet.net.au or emeraldcommunityhouse.org.au

Upper Beaconsfield Village Festival Many stalls and fresh produce, including hot foods, drinks and ice creams. The six-kilometre tower fun run starts at 9am followed by awards and trophy presentations. Full program available on website. Upper Beaconsfield Community Centre, 10–12 Salisbury Road, 9am–3pm.

Contact Janet Cathie 0407 347 742 or janet@poolservices.com.au or ubvillagefest.org.au

Photo credit: Star News Group.

Bring the kids along to Council’s annual Easter hunt. Cost: free.

Emerald Lake Park, Emerald 11am–3pm.

Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar for more info.

Rides, music, dance displays, street performances and stalls. A week of great festival activities to follow. Visit pave.org.au for the full program.

Emerald Community House, 356–8 Belgrave–Gembrook Road, Emerald 9am–8pm. Contact Non Blair 5968 3881 or info@pave.org.au

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For more Council and community events visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar Library news All events are free. Bookings are essential.

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

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

Friday 6 February 2.30–3.30pm Book Chat Talk about what’s new and recommended at Book Chat. For ages 18 and over. This month’s theme is sustainable living.

Tuesday 17 February 6.30–7.30pm Author event Julia Drury-Catton talks about her dream house on the island of Lemnos and the Mediterranean garden her family created there, as discussed in her book It Began with the Watermelon.

Thursday 9 April 3–5pm Movie – Bee Movie Barry the Bee leaves his hive and decides to sue humanity for centuries of honey theft.

Rated G, duration 91 minutes. BYO snacks.

Friday 10 April

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

Saturday 14 March 1–3pm The Pantry Detox Learn how to clean, organise and stock your pantry with Catherine Saliba, a naturopath, passionate foodie and founder of business The Pantry Detox. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and food tastings.

Children’s book clubs will return in February Library Explorers’ Club – ages five to seven.

Library Adventurers’ Club – ages eight to 12.

Tinies’ Time – babies and toddlers.

Storytime – ages three to five.

Check the CCLC website for dates, times and locations.

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 library services including mobile library locations, dates and times visit cclc.vic.gov.au

11.15am–12.45pm Crazy characters with Mark Carthew Explore book design, humour and wordplay with award-winning children’s author Mark Carthew. For ages seven and over.

Head down to Emerald Lake Park this February for Council’s annual Summer Music Series! Pack a picnic and bring your family and friends to an afternoon of live music from 12.30pm every Sunday during February.

For more information visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ summermusic

Council meetings Open to the public. Meetings are held at 7pm in Council chambers at Cardinia Shire Council Civic Centre, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer.*

February Monday 16 Council meeting

March Monday 2 Town planning meeting

Monday 16 Council meeting Koo Wee Rup Community Centre, Rossiter Road

April Monday 6 Town planning meeting * Unless otherwise advised. Check Council’s website for meeting locations.

Cardinia Cultural Centre Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham Phone: 1300 887 624 Email: ccc@cardinia.vic.gov.au Legally Blonde: The Musical presented by Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC) The hit movie is strutting its way on to the Star Theatre stage.

Tickets: $32, concession $29, children $25, family (two adults, two children) $105, groups of 15 or more $25 each.

March

April

Sunday 15

School holiday movies

Psychic Expo 10am–5pm

All movies screen at 10am. Tickets: $3, combo pack $8 (includes movie, drink and popcorn).

Tickets: $8, concession $5, children 15 and under free.

Saturday 21 Paris Underground Cabaret A classic French cabaret and variety show with performers, magicians, dancers, singers, circus and burlesque artists.

February Saturday 21 at 8pm, Sunday 22 at 2pm

7.30pm arrival for 8pm start. Tickets: $49, concession $45 (including sparkling wine on arrival and canapé desserts at interval).

Friday 27 at 8pm, Saturday 28 at 8pm March Sunday 1 at 2pm, Thursday 5 at 7pm Friday 6 at 8pm, Saturday 7 at 8pm

February

Postman Pat: The Movie

Friday 3 How to Train Your Dragon 2

Friday 10 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles For more events visit cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au

Tuesday 31

Wednesday 18

Pants Down Circus

Issi Dye’s tribute to Elvis

Amazing circus acts performed to a classic rock soundtrack. Trapeze, acrobatics, juggling and more. Includes death-defying stunts and incredible displays of strength and agility.

Suitable for all ages. 7pm, tickets: $19.

Come and enjoy morning tea with friends and sing along with Issi as he performs some of the biggest rock’n’roll hit songs in history. Morning tea 10am; show 11am. Tickets: $15 (includes morning tea).

Wednesday 1

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Feature

Milners Road in Lang Lang is resurfaced with a special blend of crushed rock.

Unsealed roads a challenge for Council EVERY year Council resurfaces unsealed roads and footpaths in Cardinia Shire as part of our Roads and Footpaths Resheeting Program. Given 69 per cent of the roads we maintain are unsealed, it’s a big and expensive job!

By June this year, Council expects to have finished resheeting about 29 kilometres of roads and five kilometres of footpaths across our Shire.

“But it’s a responsibility our roads crews take very seriously, as it ensures these roads are safe for drivers and pedestrians to use.”

This means less potholes, corrugations and dust and produces better roads to drive on,” Charles said.

Council is funding the total cost of these works, directing $880,000 to resheeting roads in areas including Bunyip, Cockatoo, Cora Lynn, Dewhurst, Emerald, Garfield, Lang Lang, Nangana, Pakenham Upper and Tonimbuk. Another $86,000 is going towards resurfacing footpaths.

Council regularly inspects the Shire’s unsealed roads and considers feedback from residents to help determine which roads to prioritise for works.

As unsealed roads can deteriorate quickly in prolonged wet or dry weather, their condition can change quickly. Council staff conduct regular inspections of the road network to ensure it is maintained in a safe and trafficable condition.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot said because much of Cardinia Shire is rural, Council has a huge unsealed road network to maintain.

“We have 871 kilometres of gravel roads to look after. If you drove that distance up the Hume Highway, you’d make it to Sydney!”

“Maintaining unsealed roads is labour intensive and costly. It’s an expense and responsibility that municipalities closer to Melbourne’s CBD generally do not have to cover,” Cr Wilmot said.

Council’s Operations Manager Charles Taveira said unsealed roads lose gravel as a result of everyday wear-and-tear and extreme weather conditions.

“Our crews prepare roads to be resurfaced with a grader then apply a special blend of crushed rock developed in partnership with local quarries,” Charles said.

“The crushed rock is then spread and compacted using a grader and a vibrating drum roller.

“The crushed rock has a high clay content which binds together to form a strong road surface.

“An unsealed road can be in excellent condition one day, but might need urgent repairs the next day after a big downpour or stretch of hot, dry weather,” Charles said.

“For this reason, motorists should always drive to the conditions of the road.”

To stay up-to-date on road and drainage works happening across Cardinia Shire visit the ‘Weekly works update’ web page on Council’s website cardinia.vic.gov.au.

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Feature

Council’s Tractor Operator Phillip Harrop.

The tractor behind Phillip tows a roller (pictured right) which compacts the road to provide a safe driving surface.

Council’s Grader Driver Keith Hance (left) with Operations Manager Charles Taveira.

Roads in residential areas MANY residential areas in townships including Emerald, Cockatoo, Nar Nar Goon and Koo Wee Rup have a lot of unsealed roads.

This is because when these townships were established, developers were not required to provide sealed roads as part of new subdivisions.

Times have changed, and now developers need to provide infrastructure including sealed roads, footpaths and underground drainage as part of a new estate. The cost of these works is passed on by the developers to new property owners when they buy the land.

It costs around $1,000 per lineal metre to seal a road to subdivisional standards. As much as Council would like to seal every road in our municipality, we would need over $1 billion to do so!

In certain circumstances, Council may introduce a Special Rate and Charge Scheme in which property owners who will benefit from the roadworks contribute to the cost of these infrastructure improvements. This only happens following extensive consultation with property owners.

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Connections

Emerald’s Emergency Support Team members Wayne Collins (front) with (from left to right) Andy Walker, Magda Lane and Kyria Perry.

Volunteers helping local communities to ‘bounce back’ WHEN emergencies such as fire, flood and urgent medical situations happen, communities that are well prepared cope best and recover more quickly. With this in mind, four volunteer groups based in Cockatoo, Emerald, Lang Lang and Gembrook are taking important steps to ensure their townships are prepared in the event of an emergency.

The Emergency Support Team (EST) is trained to provide support to the Emerald community immediately after an emergency, such as a fire.

Group members participate in workshops and training in partnership with local and state emergency service agencies.

Ready2Go is a heatwave resilience program for Cockatoo residents. It aims to help people who live alone and are particularly vulnerable during a heatwave, such as older residents, those with mobility or mental health issues or people without their own transport. The program matches individual residents with a volunteer who can offer support during a heatwave, or help to relocate the resident before conditions get too extreme.

Lang Lang’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is comprised of Ambulance Victoria volunteers from the township and its surrounding areas. As the closest ambulance depot is some distance away, the team’s trained volunteers provide emergency care to patients until paramedics arrive. The team is equipped with a vehicle and lifesaving equipment.

Gembrook Community Emergency Management Planning Group was recently formed to ensure the township’s community responds in a coordinated manner to emergencies.

In 2014, Council coordinated workshops to help the Gembrook community identify its key risks.

The group now works collaboratively with local

emergency service agencies and Council to develop an emergency response and recovery plan.

These four groups recently met to exchange ideas on how they can work with their communities to build resilience.

Council’s Resilience and Recovery Coordinator David Lane says building community resilience is all about communities using available resources to respond to, withstand and recover from adverse situations.

“Council plays an important role in linking emergency agencies with local volunteer groups and community organisations to ensure communities have a coordinated plan for when things go wrong.

Tiny Turtles on top COUNCIL’S Tiny Turtles supported playgroup has been named Victoria’s best supported playgroup at the Playgroup Victoria Awards 2014.

The free playgroup encourages play in nature and the surrounding environment in any weather, to promote outdoor play and motor skills. Tiny Turtles was developed

by Council’s Family Connections team for families who live in Officer.

This group is in the process of becoming a community playgroup, with the parents to run the group themselves.

“Our Community, Risk and Emergency Management team also supports groups by facilitating workshops and forums, offering training and advice and supporting the development of local initiatives,” David said.

“Building community resilience is everyone’s responsibility. Strong local initiatives led by the community in partnership with specialist agencies are vital to ensure a community can ‘bounce back’ when an emergency happens.”

To enquire about joining or starting a community resilience group in Cardinia Shire contact Council’s Community, Risk and Emergency Management team on 1300 787 624.

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Connections

Gregg Brown from Play Animation (left) and Council’s Youth Participation Officer Reece Gains at the shooting of the short film.

Emerald Secondary College students (from left to right) Kelly Brown, Jack Dempsey and Rachel Skipsey.

Cyber safety … it’s a wrap!

EMERALD Secondary College students have created a short film to encourage young people to stay safe and consider other people’s feelings while using the internet.

Seven students went on to write, produce and shoot a short film on the topic during Term 3 and 4 last year. They were supported by Council’s Youth Participation Officer Reece Gains, Chisholm TAFE Diploma of Youth Work student Cherylee Studham and Gregg Brown from Play Animation.

As part of the ‘Ctrl-Alt-Delete’ Cyber Safety Project, Council’s Youth Services team hosted a forum last year with Year 8 and 9 students from Emerald Secondary College on how to use social media safely.

“The film illustrates how important it is for young people to think carefully before they post on social media, and to consider the impact it may have on others as well as on their future,” Reece said.

Reece said the production aimed to help young people create a safe and positive online environment.

“It also encourages young people to support their friends to be safer online,” Reece said.

The Victorian Government’s Department of Human Services funded the ‘Ctrl-Alt-Delete’ project through the ‘It’s There for Life’ Grants Program.

To watch the short film visit the Cardinia Youth Services Facebook page or Council’s YouTube Channel ‘Cardinia TV’. Many local schools will also be screening the film for students.

For more tips on staying safe online visit cybersmart.gov.au

Prize for passionate advocate BEACONSFIELD resident Shaunagh Stevens has been named Council’s All Abilities Leader for 2014. The disability advocate was a worthy winner of the inaugural All Abilities Awards, which celebrate the achievements of individuals who improve the lives of people living with a disability.

At the age of five, Shaunagh campaigned with her parents to attend mainstream school. Since that time she has been a strong community advocate at local, state and national level for people living with disability. As a result she has recently been appointed Chair of the Cardinia Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee (AIAC).

Shaunagh accepted the award in December, supported by her husband Wayne, daughters Hayley and Ashlee and Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre Coordinator Lynda Smith, who nominated Shaunagh for the award.

“I have faced many challenges in my lifetime, but each one has strengthened me to make me the person I am today – someone who is passionate about the rights of people, especially those with a disability,” Shaunagh said in her acceptance speech.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot presented the award and commended Shaunagh for being one of many in Cardinia Shire who committed themselves to breaking down barriers and opening doors to create an inclusive society.

“I congratulate Shaunagh on being the first to be presented with this award. She has been an instrument of change in the community by raising awareness and encouraging access for people of all abilities,” Cr Wilmot said.

Shaunagh Stevens with Cr Brett Owen, Lynda Smith and Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot.

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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 Congratulations to all our Australia Day Award nominees and winners.

Council and Johns Hill Landcare Group have partnered in a pilot project which has developed a successful model to foster community action on weed control.

With the help of local landcare groups and under the guidance of a facilitator, neighbourhood groups have been formed to collectively tackle common weed issues.

For information on weed management please contact Council.

Cr Tania Baxter Ranges Ward

Phone: 0427 135 879 Email: L.Wilmot@cardinia.vic.gov.au Congratulations to the winners of the Australia Day Awards in all categories.

I’d also like to congratulate all those nominated for the awards as you’ve all been recognised as outstanding members of your communities. Thanks also to the committee for their work to make this day so special.

Work has started on the Ash Wednesday Memorial in Cockatoo, which is great news for our community.

Cr Collin Ross Central Ward

Phone: 0427 528 358 Email: t.baxter@cardinia.vic.gov.au Following the conclusion of the present CFA declared Fire Danger Period, Council will be reviewing its newly adopted Open Air Burning Policy which is available on our website. Because the current policy has been in place for one year, officers feel it is appropriate to undertake a document review at this stage. Council is calling for feedback on the existing policy. Email your feedback to fire@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Cr George Blenkhorn Central Ward

Phone: 0428 598 491 Email: c.ross@cardinia.vic.gov.au With the hottest time of year upon us, I encourage all residents to update their bushfire survival plans, even if you live in the growth corridor. Having a plan is very important, especially if you live close to or among bush, grass or paddocks. Local CFA branches can offer you advice on developing a plan.

Phone: 0429 139 902 Email: g.blenkhorn@cardinia.vic.gov.au Council is teaming up with Monash Health to develop a health services hub at the former Council offices site in Pakenham. Medical, dental, diagnostic imaging and other medical and health services will be delivered following the site’s refurbishment. Due to open in late 2015, the facility will provide much-needed local health services.

By making safety the priority, we can then enjoy the warmer months in our Shire.

The Victorian Government has committed $6.2 million to the project. Council is contributing a further $1.9 million in land and building holdings.

Cr Kate Lempriere Central Ward Phone: 0427 371 263 Email: k.lempriere@cardinia.vic.gov.au New Years Resolution 2015: work hard for positive results re ongoing developer and business creation. Advocating for job creation aimed for Central Ward and throughout Cardinia. High on the agenda.

Budget review, Rate changes, attention to Rural Roads, Hills dieldrin farm solutions, Pakenham improvements. Government Subsidies/Funding limited. Attending six committees including Audit committee.

Councillors and Council on track for successful outcomes 2015.

Cr Graeme Moore Port Ward

Cr Jodie Owen Central Ward Phone: 0427 294 893 Email: j.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au Congratulations to all nominees and winners of Australia Day Awards. Our community benefits greatly from your hard work and generosity.

Looking for some great entertainment?

Cardinia Cultural Centre is an excellent local venue with a great variety of acts coming up.

With a long and hot summer forecasted, remember to listen for any warnings.

Ensure you keep well hydrated and check regularly on elderly neighbours in the heat.

Cr David Young Port Ward

Phone: 0400 167 844 Email: g.moore@cardinia.vic.gov.au Drainage and resurfacing works at Koo Wee Rup and Nar Nar Goon Recreation reserves are now complete. Great news that Koo Wee Rup’s ground will be ready for footy this winter.

Phone: 0427 455 798 Email: d.young@cardinia.vic.gov.au After a slow start to spring, we were fortunate to get good rain in November and December.

I am excited to have joined the Youth Strategy Reference Group. Council’s Youth Services team organises great local events and gives young people fantastic support.

National Youth Week events in Cardinia Shire start on 11 April – visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ youth for details.

Pakenham Racing Club is holding its first meeting at the new racecourse in Tynong on Thursday 26 March. The racecourse will create plenty of business activity and will be a major employer for the Shire.

Young people are invited to Council’s Pool Party at Koo Wee Rup swimming pool on Saturday 14 February. Entry is $5.

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

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

12 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624

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