Whitehorse News January 2020

WHITEHORSE NEWS • January 2020

Celebrate Australia Day in Whitehorse at our annual concert!

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Chinese New Year

Youth Activities

Community Grants

Whitehorse Arts Calendar

Celebrate the Year of the Golden Rat in Box Hill.

Fun, games and competitions at Youth ConneXions.

Find out how to apply for a community grant.

Workshops, shows, courses, exhibitions and more.

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January 2020

Join Global Fiesta Are you part of a local, culturally diverse community group or not-for-profit organisation?

Contact us Whitehorse City Council, Locked Bag 2, Nunawading, VIC 3131 customer.service@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

You’re invited to take part in the 2020 Whitehorse Global Fiesta on Sunday 15 March!

awareness and increase their membership through hosting a stall.

This Harmony Day event will feature something for everyone, including an exciting mix of food stalls, eye catching performances and free kids activities.

How to get involved

This popular annual event is a great opportunity for local performing groups to showcase their talents and for community groups to raise

Complete an expression of interest application by Sunday 9 February.

More information on expressions of interest applications can be found at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/global-fiesta

www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au Phone: 9262 6333 Fax: 9262 6490 NRS: 133 677 then quote 9262 6333 Customer service centres

Sustainability

Whitehorse Civic Centre

Whitehorse News is printed on paper manufactured at a PEFC and FSC Certified Paper Mill and is produced using soy based inks.

Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre Box Hill Town Hall

Council meetings Special Committee Meeting Tuesday 28 January, 7pm Ordinary Council Meeting Monday 10 February, 7pm These meetings are held in the Council Chamber at Whitehorse Civic Centre.

Council meetings are live streamed at webcast. whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Acknowledgement of Country In the spirit of reconciliation, Whitehorse City Council acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the land. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Whitehorse News online Sign up to our e-version and read the Whitehorse News online at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ whitehorse-news

Translation services For free interpreting assistance call 131 450. Mention the language you speak and ask to be connected to Whitehorse City Council.

Chinese / 中文

Greek / Ελληνικά

如需免费口译协助，请致电 131 450。电话接通后，请说出 你说的语言，并要求转接白马 市政府。

Για δωρεάν βοήθεια με διερμηνεία τηλεφωνήστε στο 131 450. Αναφέρετε τη γλώσσα που ομιλείτε και ζητήστε να συνδεθείτε με το Δήμο του Whitehorse.

Italian / Italiano

Vietnamese / Tiếng Việt

Per assistenza di interpretariato chiama il 131 450. Indica la lingua che parli e chiedi di essere messo in contatto con il Whitehorse City Council.

Để được hỗ trợ thông dịch miễn phí hãy gọi số 131 450. Hãy nói tên ngôn ngữ của quý vị và yêu cầu được kết nối với Hội đồng Thành phố Whitehorse.

Celebrate Chinese New Year Saturday 1 February, 11am-11pm

Celebrate the Year of the Golden Rat at the Chinese New Year Festival in Box Hill.

The festival is the biggest annual event in the City of Whitehorse and is a funfilled day for all the family with delicious food, music, entertainment and rides.

Whitehorse City Council is once again proud to support the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse as it hosts one of the largest celebrations in Melbourne.

We recommend using public transport to attend the event.

Tickets available soon for Town Hall Tunes As part of Swing Pop Boom!, Town Hall Tunes returns to the Box Hill Town Hall for one delightful afternoon.

Take a step back in time to the fabulous music of the 60s! Guests will enjoy songs from artists such as Dusty Springfield, Dionne Warwick, Shirley Bassey and more as the fabulous Gina Hogan performs these classics.

Don’t miss this free concert!

When: Sunday 1 March, 2pm-4pm Where: Box Hill Town Hall Bookings: This is a free event, however bookings are essential. Tickets will be available from 10am on Tuesday 28 January.

Call the Whitehorse Centre Box Office on 9262 6555 to reserve your free ticket.

January 2020

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Enjoy a Summer BBQ at Blackburn Lake

Rates Reminder

A new barbeque has been installed at Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, just in time for the holidays.

For ratepayers paying their 2019/2020 rates in full: A reminder that full payment is due Monday 17 February 2020.

For ratepayers paying their 2019/2020 rates by instalments:

It's the perfect excuse to have a day out exploring this stunning bushland sanctuary, its visitor centre and the fun playground, and enjoy a BBQ lunch or dinner to boot.

The third instalment is due on Friday 28 February 2020.

For payment options www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/your-rates#payment-options

Just remember, the ducks and other wildlife don’t want your left over food scraps - it’s very unhealthy for them. So please enjoy the facilities, but remember to carefully dispose of all rubbish, including food scraps, into the provided bins - or better yet, take home to separate for composting and recycling!

More information 9262 6333

Community Grants Applications Opening Soon

Right: Councillor Denise Massoud is planning to enjoy lots of BBQs at Blackburn Lake this summer.

Thank You to Our Volunteers!

Council held our annual Volunteer Recognition and Thank You Celebration late last year to celebrate the contribution of our wonderful volunteers.

A number of volunteers were recognised for reaching significant milestones in their volunteering journey. Two volunteers received a certificate for their incredible 46 years of service to the Whitehorse community: Mary Burgess from Meals on Wheels and David Inglis (pictured below with Whitehorse Mayor Councillor Sharon Ellis) from the Wandinong Sanctuary Advisory Committee.

More information and to get involved www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/about-council/jobs/volunteers

Whitehorse Mayor Councillor Sharon Ellis with David Inglis.

Council’s community grants offers financial aid for all sorts of community groups to get new ideas off the ground, or secure a resource they need.

Applications for the annual program open this year on Monday 10 February and close on Friday 13 March.

To be eligible for a community grant you need to apply as a not-for-profit or incorporated organisation, or groups can approach a local neighbourhood house or community organisation to sponsor/auspice them.

Visit Council’s community grants webpage to get full details on the application process, including planning your application and applying for the right type of grant to meet your needs.

Don’t forget the only way to apply for a community grant is through SmartyGrants, an efficient way to submit your application online.

More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/community-grants

Below: Whitehorse Mayor Councillor Sharon Ellis with representatives from community group Dream Stitches.

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January 2020

Youth ConneXions School Holiday Activities Head to Youth ConneXions in Box Hill this month for fun, games, competitions and to celebrate the New Year!

Join one activity or come along to them all. Check out what’s on: Youth ConneXions New Year’s Party

Art and Movie Day

Tuesday 7 January, 2pm-5pm

Enjoy some snacks as you watch the movie on the big screen. There will also be an art table available with a variety of arts and crafts materials.

Enjoy party snacks, sweets and music, and make some great new year’s resolutions!

Gamer Competition Thursday 9 January, 2pm-5pm

Compete in the free Super Smash Bros and Mario Kart competitions or just watch the fun. There are plenty of prizes up for grabs.

Places are limited, so register to secure a spot. Registration details below.

Tuesday 14 January, 2pm-5pm

Dungeons and Dragons Thursday 16 January, 2pm-5pm

A Dungeon Master will run a three hour adventure. Places are limited, so register to secure a spot. Registration details below.

Follow Youth ConneXions on Facebook and Instagram for updates and more information.

More information and registration amy.mcdonald@whitehorse.vic.gov.au 9898 9340.

Rubi the Support Dog Is Back for 2020!

Rubi will be at Youth ConneXions on the first Monday of each month, from 3pm-4.30pm for pats, play, to offer a listening ear and to welcome anyone who drops in.

That means Rubi will be at Youth ConneXions on Monday 6 January.

‘Shining a Light’ – Whitehorse Youth Forum Written by Alan Wu, Whitehorse Youth Representative Committee On 19 August 2019, the Whitehorse Youth Representative Committee (WYRC) held its fifth annual Whitehorse Youth Forum at Box Hill Town Hall. 2019’s theme was ‘Shining a Light’, with the intention that the forum promotes discussion and awareness of stigmatised youth issues in a friendly and supportive environment. In contrast to previous years, 2019’s forum had a broader focus. Six issues were covered including mental health, healthy lifestyles, healthy relationships, safety, career and employment and body image.

Forum attendees from five high schools in Whitehorse were given the opportunity to participate in three interactive workshops covering three of the six issues, as well as the keynote address for body image. During the lunch break, attendees visited stalls set up by youth and community organisations to learn about the services and opportunities available for young people in Whitehorse.

At the end of the event, students and teachers also took part in an informal feedback session about the event as a whole and each workshop.

Overall, the event was a great way to encourage conversations about difficult youth issues and motivate young people to take action to address these issues.

The WYRC would like to welcome other secondary schools in Whitehorse to participate in the 2020 Forum, as well as young people aged 12-25 to join the 2020 Committee. For more information, please visit www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/whitehorseyouth-representative-committee.

Finally, the WYRC would like to thank Headspace, Butterfly Foundation, Relationships Victoria, Box Hill Institute, Youth Support and Advocacy Service, Victoria Police and the stallholders for their invaluable support and contribution to the 2019 Whitehorse Youth Forum.

Skateboard School Holiday Workshop

Let’s Ride – Bicycle Skills Program (Novice)

When: Thursday January 16, 9.30-10.30am and 10.30am-11.30am Where: Box Hill Skate Park, Canterbury Rd and Middleborough Rd, Box Hill South Age: 8-13 years Cost: $5 Bookings: www.eventbrite.com. au/e/skateboard-school-holidayworkshop-tickets-86063862329

When: Thursday 23 January, 9.30am-3.30pm Where: Terrara Park, Terrara Road, Vermont South Age: 8-13 years Cost: $20 Bookings: www.eventbrite. com.au/e/lets-ride-bicycleskills-program-novicetickets-86078317565

This one-hour skateboard program is aimed at kids aged 8-13. Run by Shredability with Australian Skate Federation National Head Skateboarding coach Renton Miller. Skateboards and helmets provided.

A whole-day bicycle confidence, skills and awareness training program targeting novice riders.

Bring along your roadworthy bike and helmet.

It Is Illegal to Leave a Child Alone in a Car Children left alone in hot cars can die.

Hundreds of Victorian children are rescued every year after being left alone in a hot car.

Even on mild days the temperature inside a parked car can be 20-30 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. During a 30-degree summer day, a child could be suffering in up to 60-degree heat.

There is no safe time limit for a child to be alone in a hot car. As a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult, the impact of this heat on a child’s body is almost immediate. This puts them at greater risk of life-threatening heat stroke, brain injury, heart and lung failure and dehydration.

In Victoria, it is against the law to leave children unattended in a car.

Parents or carers could face fines or up to six months’ jail.

More information kidsafevic.com.au In an emergency, phone 000

January 2020

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Supported Playgroups Natasha has recently joined Whitehorse City Council as the Supported Playgroup Facilitator delivering Smalltalk Supported Playgroup Sessions.

Smalltalk is a short term playgroup that usually runs for 10 weeks (a school term) and is designed to increase positive child parent/caregiver interactions, and increase confidence to do the things we know can have a positive impact on children's learning, social, and emotional development.

It is about using everyday opportunities and activities that many parents and caregivers already do in the home. By attending the Supported Playgroup with your child, you will learn tips and lots of relevant advice. Information is shared about the way parents and caregivers can talk, listen and play with their children, read together and how they can engage them in interesting and stimulating activities. Smalltalk also encourages self-care and, where needed, it also helps build relevant links within our community and local services.

Some families may also be eligible for in-home support.

A playgroup has also been started for parent and caregivers of children with special needs.

More information Natasha – 9262 6406 supportedplaygroup@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

January Immunisations Get the buzz!

Council uses a free app called Flexibuzz to communicate all the latest news on local family events, programs, immunisation, parenting information forums, maternal and child health, Whitehorse Early Learning Centres (WELS), Aqualink’s occasional care and information on parenting youth.

Download Flexibuzz in your app store, register and then search for Whitehorse City Council and select the categories that relate to you.

Council provides free vaccinations against infectious diseases for children from six weeks to 19 years of age and a limited range of vaccines for eligible adults in accordance with the National Immunisation Program Schedule.

No Jab No Pay For all enquiries regarding legislation please call the Centrelink Families and Parent Line on 13 61 50 More information 9262 6197 www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ immunisation

5-Star Food Safe Program Whitehorse Civic Centre (Willis Room) 379 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading 7, 17 and 22 January – 9.15am-10.45am 9 January – 6pm-7.30pm •

Burgess Family Centre 15 Barwon Street, Box Hill North 15 January – 9.15am-10.45am 28 January – 6pm-7.30pm •

Sportlink 2 Hanover Road, Vermont South 10 January – 9.15am-10.45am

Blue Cross Community Services Group in Vermont South is Council’s 5-Star Food Safe business for January for achieving outstanding results in Council's food safety assessment.

Find out the other local businesses that have achieved excellent star ratings by visiting ehealth.whitehorse.vic.gov.au Blue Cross Community Services Group Location: 39 Livingstone Road, Vermont South Phone: 8846 3500 Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ 5-star-whitehorse-food-safe-program

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Whitehors

Sunday 2 Whitehorse C Join us to celebrate our great nation and multicultural community with a stunning night of entertainment for the whole family.

Chocolate Starfish Chocolate Starfish will be headlining a fun-filled night of entertainment, performing show stopping classics from INXS, Meatloaf and Queen as well as their own breakthrough song ‘Mountain’.

Michelle Serret-Cursio and Band Michelle Serret-Cursio has established herself as one Australia’s foremost female vocalists and has featured on TV many times. Accompanied by her band, Michelle will sing the national anthem for the opening ceremony followed by other classic melodies.

Michael Paynter Former The Voice contestant, Michael Paynter, will grace the stage with his accompanying band to perform some Aussie classics. Michael’s bold voice and musical talent is not to be missed!

AC/DSHE The Kazoos A burst of entertainment from one of Australia's most acclaimed children’s acts. The Kazoos will be opening the concert with belly laughing musical comedy.

Rock out with this fabulous fronted AC/DC tribute band as they take you through the hits of this iconic Aussie band.

Getting There Fireworks Due to the unprecedented ongoing bushfire emergency across the country, Whitehorse City Council has cancelled its Australia Day fireworks. Council is deeply concerned for the wellbeing of those affected by bushfires and our thoughts are with all communities directly impacted.

As parking is limited, guests are encouraged to take public transport, cycle or walk. To plan your journey, visit Public Transport Victoria's journey planner at www.ptv.vic.gov.au or use the interactive map at bit.ly/AUSdayMap

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se Australia Day Concert

26 January, 6pm-10pm Civic Precinct, Nunawading

Rides, Refreshments and Giveaways Kids big and small will love the free rides, which start from 5pm. A wide variety of food stalls will be on site, as well as face painting and games. There will also be giveaways and exciting activities galore thanks to the event sponsors.

Accessibility Accessible parking and toilets will be available. An accessible viewing area will be located at the top of the lawn off the main path. The full concert will be AUSLAN interpreted with a dedicated viewing area at stage left, with interpreters also on the big screens throughout.

STAGE PROGRAM 6pm

Welcome from MC Wendy Stapleton

6.05pm

The Kazoos

6.30pm

Official Opening and Welcome to Country

6.35pm

Civic Award Presentations

6.45pm

National Anthem

6.50pm

Michelle Serret and Band

7.25pm

AC/DSHE

8.05pm

Michael Paynter and Band

8.55pm

Chocolate Starfish

10pm

Concert ends

5pm-9.40pm Food trucks, activities for kids

and free rides *Times are subject to change

MORE INFORMATION www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

MAJOR SPONSOR

ASSOCIATE SPONSORS

Whitehorse Festival Season bit.ly/AUSdayMap Retirement living and aged care

at its best!

MEDIA PARTNERS

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January 2020

Do You Want to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient?

Council has partnered with the Australian Energ y Foundation to provide you with simple energ y advice you can trust.

The energy advisors at the not-for-profit Australian Energy Foundation can help you work out exactly what you need to do to make your home energy-efficient.

From solar to pool pump controllers, they can provide advice on all areas of your home, helping you make an informed decision.

They can also connect you with reliable suppliers for everything you need to make your home energyefficient. They conduct a rigorous procurement process so that you can buy with ease and confidence.

Areas they can help with include: ■

Solar panels and battery storage

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Insulation and draught proofing

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LED lighting

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Hot water heat pumps

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Reverse cycle air conditioners

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Home energy assessments

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Pool pump controllers

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Window films

Visit the Australian Energy Foundation website at aef.com.au to learn about all the things you can do in your home.

More information 1300 23 68 55 advice@aef.com.au

Unsure About What to Do With Your Christmas Tree?

Here are some options to recycle your "real" Christmas tree so it can be turned into a valuable mulch: ■

Book a free hard waste collection and take the opportunity to have a clean out this summer. Residents are entitled to two free hard waste collections each financial year. For more information visit: www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/hard-waste-collection Please note: bookings may take up to two weeks in peak times.

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Drop it off at the Whitehorse Recycling and Waste Centre (charges apply). For more information visit www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/hard-waste-collection Mulch on site. This valuable mulch can be either be composted or placed on your garden to assist retaining water in the soil this summer.

Please note plastic trees cannot be recycled as they contain multiple materials, but they can be reused for many years.

Pruning Keeps Trees Clear of Power Lines Council manages tree pruning on public land to ensure a safe distance between trees and power lines.

Pruning will occur in Box Hill South this January.

Pruning is done in accordance with the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2015 and also with Council’s Electric Line Clearance Management Plan.

More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/naturestrips

Just Chillin’: Try These Heat Busters This Summer Heatwaves can have serious impacts on people's health so it's important to take care of yourself, loved ones and neighbours. Plan ahead and be prepared for extreme heat with these tips.

1. Drink plenty of water or other cool non-alcoholic fluids even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinking extremely cold liquids as they can cause stomach cramps.

2. Reduce activity and avoid exercise. If activity is unavoidable, try to schedule it for the cooler part of the day and rest often.

3. Stay indoors or in the shade whenever you can.

4. Keep air circulating around you.

Keep windows covered and turn on your fan or air conditioner.

5. Eat smaller meals more often and make them cold meals such as salad.

6. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton and linen.

7. Place wet towels on your body, put feet in cold water and take cool (not cold) showers.

8. Consider visiting an air conditioned shopping centre, public library or cinema.

Below: Libraries are a great place to keep cool in extreme heat. Councillor Prue Cutts is pictured here with a young reader at Nunawading Library.

January 2020

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Abbey Walk Footbridge Repair Works Council is responsible for the maintenance of 73 bridges and path structures including a variety of road bridges, footbridges, boardwalks and viewing platforms.

There is an ongoing program of inspections, maintenance, repair and renewal of these structures.

Most recently, Council completed major repairs to the Abbey Walk footbridge over Dandenong Creek, Vermont.

The project included: ■ ■

Bridge strengthening works Re-adjustment of the tension elements on the cable stayed bridge

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Replacement of decking

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Replacement of balustrade

Cute critters: Renowned Victorian mural maker artist Jimmi Buscombe created one of his 3D artworks at Britannia Mall in Mitcham in December. The permanent work features the fauna of Whitehorse in a colourful mood!

The works mean the bridge will provide a safe path for pedestrians and cyclists travelling the Eastlink Trail for many years to come.

Get to Know Your Council Whitehorse City Council is proud to announce its results in the state-wide Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) indicators for 2018/2019.

LGPRF is an initiative of the state government that aims to give the community a greater understanding of the work Councils do and how they are performing.

Through the Know Your Council website, residents can see how Whitehorse compares with other Councils across a range of services and measures.

More information www.knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au

Transparency The percentage of Council decisions made at meetings closed to the public for Whitehorse was 4.39 per cent compared to the metro* average of 7.17 per cent.

Financial Performance Indicators Council performed well across all indicators demonstrating Council’s financial sustainability.

Animal Management

Roads

Animals reclaimed from Council increased to 72.05 per cent, compared to the metro average of 54.69 per cent. Council continues to focus on reunification as a priority through continued education initiatives.

Council scored 72 out of 100 in satisfaction with sealed local roads, significantly exceeding the metropolitan group and state-wide averages.

Recycling Governance Satisfaction with Council decisions scored 60 out of 100 in the 2019 Community Satisfaction Survey.

This was consistent with the metro average and exceeded the state-wide average of 55 out of 100.

The amount of waste sent to organics and recycling facilities in Whitehorse was 50.46 per cent compared to the metro average of 45.87 per cent.

Councillor attendance at Council meetings was 100 per cent.

Aquatic facilities

Maternal and Child Health

Council’s recreational facilities are one of the top performing areas in Council’s Community Satisfaction Survey, significantly exceeding the state-wide averages for the period 2016-2019.

Participation in this service remains high at 84.36 per cent compared to the metro average of 77.67 per cent.

* Metropolitan Melbourne is considered the geographical area that defines Melbourne as a city. Of the 79 local government areas in Victoria, 22 are in metro Melbourne.

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The views expressed are those of individual Councillors and do not necessarily reflect Council policy or the views of Council as a whole.

Central Ward

Elgar Ward

Morack Ward

Cr Andrew Munroe 0429 138 140 andrew.munroe@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Tina Liu 0418 121 357 tina.liu@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Bill Bennett 0409 195 530 bill.bennett@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Denise Massoud 0409 230 499 denise.massoud@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Blair Barker 0459 857 280 blair.barker@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Raylene Carr 0400 886 889 raylene.carr@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

By Cr Andrew Munroe

By Cr Blair Barker

By Cr Bill Bennett

Whitehorse Centre’s 2020 Season was launched in December at a fabulous night with musical performances from several artists who will be performing in the new season.

It was wonderful to see so many at Council’s free Christmas carols event.

Eastern Health is one of Melbourne’s largest metropolitan public health services. It includes Box Hill Hospital as well as our local Peter James Centre in Mahoneys Road, Burwood East.

It was also announced that in August, Rhonda Burchmore, Michael Cormick, David Hobson and Silvie Paladino will perform in The Event. This will be the last season performance at the Whitehorse Centre before it is completely closed. During the closure many of the professional events will be held at One Community Church in Surrey Road, Blackburn, which I am sure will prove a great venue.

Box Hill to Ringwood Shared Use Path Council passed a motion at its December meeting to enable the Department of Transport to complete the missing link from Blackburn Station to Middleborough Road. While not a Council project the Department needs to work with Council as Main Street, Laburnum Street and Laburnum Park are our assets. Cr Massoud and I would have preferred a separated path, however once the Blackburn Road grade separation was completed that option was effectively closed. I note that there will be some improved traffic treatments with the South Parade, Main Street intersection and lights for people and bikes crossing at Laburnum Bridge.

Morton Park Pavilion The complete rebuild of the Morton Park Pavilion is underway with the old building now demolished and the build to be completed later this year. The facility, costing almost $6m, will be a great asset to the Blackburn Football Club and Cricket Club for both juniors and seniors and in particular, will deliver facilities that will assist female participation. There has been a delay of several months to the start date of the works as changes to the building regulations required that the temporary buildings, which were to be in situ for more than six months, should be fully environmentally compliant and accessible. This added hundreds of thousands to Council’s costs and we will be taking up this issue with the state government prior to subsequent pavilion developments.

Image: Cr Munroe and Whitehorse Centre Patrons.

I will always support this marvellous traditional celebration and thank all of the community and faith-based groups and volunteers that have powered it for years. I’ve been privileged to spend time with local people recently, including selling the Big Issue in Box Hill, Mont Albert Dog Walkers Christmas Drinks, U3A, Surrey Park Swim Club and Greenlink and various Cricket Clubs. All are powered by amazing volunteers that give up their time for others so our area is more liveable and people are more connected. I thank all sincerely.

There are over 50 facilities in the Eastern Region providing a wide variety of services. I recently attended a forum where Eastern Health provided an overview of their operations with the keynote speaker focussing on mental health and the outcomes from the Royal Commission. I was pleased to be able to speak at Council about our own Whitehorse Health and Wellbeing Plan and to highlight mental health challenges in our community.

Community Sport

Opening Doors

Community sport offers a multitude of community benefits over just physical fitness and mental health benefits. It unites and connects people, develops social skills and resilience and brings people together.

I’m incredibly proud of Surrey Hills Cricket Club who have been in the news recently after they bought Romanian Cricketer, Pavel Florin, to Australia to play some games. Pavel is a wonderful ambassador for the game, reinforcing to us that ability and financial riches will always be secondary to the game's inclusivity for anyone and everyone. Also super proud of Elgar local Caitlin Morando who has been selected to play for Victoria in the U18 National Championships. Caitlin is following a tradition of our area producing talented Australian players such as Meg Lanning and Rachel Haynes. I’ve coached cricket alongside Caitlin.

She is not just a prodigious talent, and great lady, she continues to invest back into the game and its inclusivity by running Kerrimuir Cricket Club's Friday night kids' clinic. Go Caitlin and thank you to her new sponsor IconSports Geelong.

This is a community leadership program which aims to build stronger, more inclusive and connected communities. I had the privilege to attend their 10th anniversary celebrations and listen to inspiring stories from their 2019 graduates.

Image: Cr Barker with Caitlin Morando.

Image: Bobby Fox: The Irish Boy with Cr Bennett.

Bravo!

The Whitehorse Centre Season 2020 'Bravo' begins in February with Bobby Fox: The Irish Boy. I attended the season launch and it promises once again to be fantastic local entertainment of world class. The season continues through to August this year at the Whitehorse Centre and will then be temporarily relocated to One Community Blackburn whilst the new Whitehorse Centre is constructed.

Best wishes for a safe and happy 2020.

Bill

The views expressed are those of individual Councillors and do not necessarily reflect Council policy or the views of Council as a whole.

Riversdale Ward

Springfield Ward

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Representing the Community

Cr Sharon Ellis (Mayor) 0419 397 194 sharon.ellis@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Ben Stennett 0448 375 937 ben.stennett@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Part of the work of a Councillor is to represent and promote the Whitehorse community at different community organisations, bodies and committees.

Cr Andrew Davenport 0407 652 145 andrew.davenport@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Cr Prue Cutts 0409 867 540 prue.cutts@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

At the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 25 November, Councillors were appointed to the following bodies: ■

By Cr Sharon Ellis

By Cr Prue Cutts

At the end of October I had the great honour of being elected mayor for a third time.

Happy New Year to all!

Thank you to all who sent me messages of congratulations. Since that time I have had endless events in the lead up to Christmas.

Whitehorse Christmas Carols As usual, this was a highly successful event with an estimated 10,000 in attendance.

Marina Prior, David Hobson and Michael Cormack were a great hit with the large crowd and we were provided with perfect weather.

Chaucer Park Just before Christmas I was delighted to officially open the wonderful new park in Chaucer St, Box Hill South.

This beautifully designed park has been constructed on a double block and has fabulous play equipment for the children and seats for the parents to relax while watching them. There is even a bench seat named after the previous owners of the house who were active volunteers in the community.

Of course if you don't happen to have small children it is an ideal spot to read a book.

I hope you all have a healthy and happy 2020.

What a marvellous year of delivering on capital works we are looking forward to in Springfield Ward! So many projects are due for completion and others soon to start!

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We look forward to the completion of the $3.6 million Walker Park pavilion early in the year, and the $30 million Nunawading Community Hub mid-year.

The Whitehorse Centre will be closing mid August for demolition and a rebuild will follow taking two years. 21 Wattle Valley Road in Mitcham will be turned back to parkland and we will be delivering more playgrounds for our young families. Plans for the Heatherdale Reserve pavilion are moving along at a cracking pace, with detailed design soon to be completed. So much activity! These are all important community building projects.

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Chance Meeting with Former Mayor and Councillor I was delighted to meet former Mayor and Councillor of Nunawading, Savvas Athan, at the U3A Nunawading Christmas lunch recently. Savvas was the first non-English background Councillor to be elected as Mayor. Savvas has spent the last 20 years as a “Philosophy of Life” tutor at the U3A but at the ripe age of 80 something, he has decided to step down.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to community!

Above: Cr Cutts with former Councillor and Mayor of Nunawading, Savvas Athan.

Queen Scout Award Congratulations Emma Rahman for achieving your Queen Scout award! Less than 3% of Venturers achieve this prestigious award representing only one or two per year across the whole municipality.

Emma spent over 360 hours in achieving this award!

I was thrilled to be invited by Emma to her award ceremony. My son and Emma both attended 1st Heatherdale Scout Group five years ago. There’s a big future awaiting Emma! Good luck to any other students aiming for this acclaimed award!

Image: Cr Ellis at the opening of Chaucer Street Park.

May each and every one of you have a wonderful year full of success, positivity, personal achievement, health and happiness!

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Local Government’s Waste Management Forum (to support the Metropolitan Waste Management Group): Cr Bill Bennett, and Cr Denise Massoud as a substitute when required Municipal Association of Victoria: Cr Sharon Ellis and Cr Bill Bennett as a substitute when required Whitehorse Business Group Inc.: Cr Andrew Davenport and Cr Tina Liu Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corp.: Cr Andrew Munroe and Cr Tina Liu Victorian Local Governance Association: Cr Bill Bennett and Cr Andrew Munroe as a substitute when required Eastern Region Affordable Housing Alliance: Cr Sharon Ellis Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) Executive Committee: Cr Tina Liu Eastern Transport Coalition: Cr Tina Liu Metropolitan Transport Forum: Cr Andrew Davenport

Community Briefs Start the New Year with a film!

Join the Whitehorse Film Society and meet some fellow film lovers in a relaxed and friendly social environment.

The Whitehorse Film Society offers local screenings of a variety of dramas and comedies, international art house and recent commercial films.

Screenings are held on the first and third Saturdays of the month, starting at 7.45pm in the Willis Room, Whitehorse Civic Centre, 379 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading.

Yearly membership are available at $55 and benefits include a monthly newsletter, free supper, opportunities for discussion and a DVD library from which movies may be borrowed at no cost.

More information www.whitehorse.filmsociety.org.au secretarywhfs@gmail.com Pat: 9877 1474

WHITEHORSE ARTS CALENDAR EXHIBITION

A 50 Year Journey – Professor Chijian Ye 30 January – 29 February

This stunning exhibition focuses on the 50 year career of Professor Chijian Ye, whose prolific body of work includes ceramics, silk and oil paintings.

Where: Whitehorse Artspace

EXHIBITION

James Carmichael – Australasia Outdoors 3 February – 1 March Opening: Thursday 6 February, 6.30pm-8.30pm

Local photographer and filmmaker James Carmichael captures diverse and rugged landscapes and wildlife.

Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre

NEW COURSES AT BOX HILL COMMUNITY ART CENTRE

Alcohol Ink Homewares 5 February – 11 March, Wednesdays, 12pm-2pm

Create your very own personalised coasters, tiles, mugs, plates and pots.

Alcohol Ink Painting

Etching and Collagraphs

Women’s Meditation Circle

5 February – 11 March, Wednesdays, 9.30am-11.30am

3 February – 23 March (no class March 9), Mondays, 7.15pm-9.15pm

11 February – 17 March, Tuesdays, 7.30pm-8.30pm

This is a great course to expand your horizons on what is possible with alcohol Ink. Cost: $162 / 6 weeks

Arts for Adults with a Disability 7 February – 27 March, Fridays, 1.30pm-3pm

This course allows adults with a disability to creatively express themselves.

Cost: $171.50 / 7 weeks

Join us for an evening of meditation and connect with other like-minded women, hear their stories and make new friends.

Gentle Yoga

Cost: $102 / 6 weeks

Explore the process of nontoxic etching and collagraphs.

5 February – 25 March, Wednesday, 12pm-1pm

These user friendly yoga classes are suited to those over 50 years of age but are open to anyone.

Cost: $136 / 8 weeks

Hey Dee Ho Parent and Child Music Classes (NEW)

Cost: $163.20 / 8 weeks

Mixed Media

Beginner Wheel Taster

4 February – 24 March (no class March 17), Tuesdays, 7.15pm-9.15pm

Free Class – Come and give it a try: 3 February, 10.45am11.30am

Learn basic techniques such as throwing, trimming and glazing in a supportive environment.

Gain experience and confidence in a range of mediums including painting, printmaking, drawing and collage.

Enriching and educational, this music program is suitable for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Cost: $146 / 4 weeks

Cost: $196 / 8 weeks

Children’s Picture Book Illustration

Photography for Beginners – Mastering Manual Mode

6 February – 26 March, Thursdays, 10am-12pm

5 February – 25 March, Wednesdays, 7pm-8.30pm

24 February – 23 March (no class 9 March), Mondays, 9.30am-10.30am

Learn the basics of children’s picture book illustration from a published illustrator.

Learn about shutter speed, aperture, depth of field and composition. BYO DSLR camera and tripod.

Get messy as you touch, mix and squish in these hands on classes that explore creativity through tactile activities.

Cost: $147.20 / 8 weeks

Cost: $72 / 4 weeks

Cost: $196 / 8 weeks

Bookings essential for classes and courses.

KINDY COURSES AT BOX HILL COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

10 February – 23 March (no class 9 March), Mondays, 10.45am-11.30am

10 February – 2 March, Mondays, 10am-12.30pm

470 Station Street, Box Hill 9895 8888 www.bhcac.com.au

Cost: $93 / 6 weeks (Siblings under 12 months are free)

Kindy Sensory Play

Rear of 397 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Box Office 9262 6555 www.whitehorsecentre.com.au

Located at Box Hill Town Hall, 1022 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill Hours: Tue to Fri 10am-4pm Sat 12pm-4pm www.whitehorseartspace.com.au

Kindy Creative Clay Play 21 February – 27 March, Fridays, 9.30am-10.30am

Engage in creativity and develop fine motor skills whilst making clay and craft creations.

Cost: $108 / 6 weeks

Cost: $162 / 6 weeks

Συναυλία και Πυροτεχνήματα για την Ημέρα Αυστραλίας στο Whitehorse

Fuochi d’artificio e concerto a Whitehorse per Australia Day

Κυριακή 26 Ιανουαρίου 2020, Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct, Nunawading, 6μμ-10μμ.

Domenica 26 gennaio 2020, Area del Centro civico di Whitehorse, Nunawading, 18:00-22:00.

Ελάτε να γιορτάσετε μαζί μας το θαυμάσιο έθνος και την πολυπολιτισμική μας κοινωνία σε μια δωρεάν εντυπωσιακή ψυχαγωγική βραδιά για όλη την οικογένεια.

Unisciti a noi nel celebrare la nostra grande nazione e la nostra comunità multiculturale con una splendida notte di attrazioni gratuite per l’intera famiglia.

Στους καλλιτέχνες περιλαμβάνονται Chocolate Starfish, Michael Paynter, AC/DShe και Michelle Serret-Cursio και η Band. Θα υπάρχει επίσης ψυχαγωγία για παιδιά με τους The Kazoos, καθώς και δωρεάν λούνα παρκ και δώρα.

Si esibiranno, tra gli altri, Chocolate Starfish, Michael Paynter, AC/DShe e Michelle Serret-Cursio e il suo gruppo.

Ci saranno anche attrazioni per i bambini con l’esibizione di The Kazoos, oltre a giostre gratuite e omaggi.

Μια εκθαμβωτική επίδειξη πυροτεχνημάτων διάρκειας 10 λεπτών θα κλείσει αυτή τη φανταστική βραδιά.

Uno sfolgorante spettacolo pirotecnico di 10 minuti concluderà questa notte fantastica.

白马市澳大利亚日音乐会及烟花燃放 2020年1月26日星期日，Nunawading白 马市市政中心，晚上6-10点 欢迎大家参加，庆祝我们伟大的国家和多 元文化社区，在这个辉煌的夜晚，合家娱 乐，一切免费。 演出单位和个人有Chocolate Starfish、Michael Paynter、AC/DShe和 Michelle Serret-Cursio及乐队。还有The Kazoos表演，专为儿童提供娱乐。提供免 费乘车和赠品。 10分钟的烟花燃放，将使这个美妙之夜 达到高潮

Hoà nhạc và Bắn pháo hoa ở Whitehorse nhân Ngày Quốc khánh Úc Chủ nhật ngày 26 tháng 1 năm 2020, tại Khu Trung tâm Công dân Whitehorse, Nunawading, 6 - 10 giờ tối.

Hãy cùng chúng tôi ca tụng cộng đồng đa văn hoá và đất nước tuyệt vời của chúng ta trong đêm lộng lẫy với các trò giải trí miễn phí cho cả gia đình.

Người biểu diễn bao gồm Chocolate Starfish, Michael Paynter, AC/DShe và Michelle Serret-Cursio cùng ban nhạc.

Cũng sẽ có các trò giải trí cho trẻ em như màn trình diễn của The Kazoos, và cả các trò chơi và quà tặng miễn phí. Đêm tuyệt vời này sẽ kết thúc bằng 10 phút bắn pháo hoa thật rực rỡ.