Whitehorse News February 2022 by Whitehorse City Council

WHITEHORSE NEWS

February 2022

Working for Whitehorse Read more about Aborist Callan Walker on page 4.

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Community Grants

Email subscriptions

Civic awards

Caring for the Community

Applications open in February. Page 3

Stay informed about Council news that matters to you. Page 5

Congratulations to our winners! Page 7

Read about Tony Slater’s love for nature. Page 11

February 2022

Contact Whitehorse City Council Contact Whitehorse City Council Contact Whitehorse City Council Contact Whitehorse City Contact Whitehorse City Council Council

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Mayor’s message Cr Tina Liu

With the onset of Omicron and large daily case numbers, Council facilities will continue to operate in line with state government requirements. Our team is here to help you and any changes to services will be shared on our website or the relevant facilities social media pages. I had the pleasure of officiating the Citizenship Ceremony to welcome new Australian citizens to Whitehorse and announce the Whitehorse Civic Award winners on Australia Day. Congratulations to all the award recipients – thank you for all that you do in our community. It is anticipated that the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) Public Hearing for the first stage (SRL East) Environmental Effects Statement and draft Planning Scheme will commence at the end of February.

Council has made a formal submission and will be presenting at the hearing. Updates and more information regarding the hearing will be available in due course through the SRL website and Council communication channels. With the upcoming Federal and State elections this year, Council continues to strongly advocate to the respective levels of government, for the needs of our community and ensure better outcomes for Whitehorse. For those who celebrate Lunar New Year, this is a time for families and friends to come together, share food, stories and learn about this special time of year. 2022 is the Year of the Tiger and I hope that like the animal, it will be a strong, prosperous and dynamic year for all.

Community Satisfaction Survey Residents may soon be contacted by a company conducting a survey on behalf of Council. Council has commissioned JWS Research to undertake the annual Community Satisfaction Survey in 2022. This survey will commence in early February and include more than 500 randomly selected local residents and ratepayers over the age of 18. More than half of this sample will be contacted via mobile phone as we aim to include more of the mobile-only households and

younger population. The survey covers key performance measures such as customer service, waste management, advocacy (lobbying on behalf of the community) and much more. In 2021, Council received strong positive ratings on key performance indicators including elderly support services, waste and local roads management. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ about-council/have-your-say/ community-satisfaction-survey

The surveyor may ask general demographic information but will not ask for your personal details. If you feel suspicious that someone might be impersonating a Council endorsed surveyor, please hang up and call Council on 9262 6333 immediately to verify.

February 2022

Health and fitness in the new year The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on your health and fitness. Aqualink offers more than 200 group fitness classes plus gyms and pools. There are also wellness facilities including a spa, sauna and steam room. Our Health and Fitness Manager Ashley says now is a great time to set new goals and create fitness routines to carry you through 2022. Ashley has some tips to help you: ■ Make exercise fun The key to sticking with exercise long term is finding something you enjoy. There are plenty of different activities including group fitness classes like cycling, dancing and yoga. Try going for a swim and finish with a relaxing spa. If you’re doing exercise you enjoy you’ll be more motivated to continue doing it.

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Gradually increase your activity levels If you’re new to Aqualink or you’ve had some time off from exercising, don’t expect too much of yourself. Remember that doing any kind of exercise is far better than doing nothing, so take it easy and gradually increase your activity levels. Develop an exercise routine Incorporate exercise into your daily routine. It’s important to find a way to exercise that fits into your schedule. This helps your exercise to become a habit rather than a chore. Ask the experts A gym instructor can design a program specifically for you. A personal trainer can guide you each week and track your progress. A PT Starter Pack gives you 3 sessions from $99. Find out more www.aqualink.com.au/PT

Become a member Join Aqualink this year and keep motivated to stay fit and healthy. The wide range of facilities and classes cater for all abilities.

Supporting Whitehorse’s community groups and clubs Applications for Council’s annual Community Grants Program will open 9am Monday 21 February 2022 and close 5pm Friday 18 March 2022. Not-for-profit incorporated community groups, organisations and clubs based in Whitehorse, or who’s work is focused on supporting the Whitehorse community, can apply to Council for funding to deliver activities, services and programs that make a positive contribution to the health and wellbeing of our community. “The grants program is an important way that Council is working in partnership with the community to respond to community needs and deliver benefits to Whitehorse and enrich our community life,” said Cr Skilbeck.

5-Star Food Safe Program Bonbons Bakery in Box Hill is Council’s 5-Star Food Safe business for February for achieving outstanding results in Council’s food safety assessment.

Find out about other local businesses that achieved excellent star ratings by visiting www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ ehealth-portal Bonbon Bakery Box Hill Location: Shop 71/1 Main Street, Box Hill Opening hours: Monday to Friday 7am6.15pm, Saturday-Sunday 7.30am-6pm Phone: 8849 9850 Website: www.bonbonsbakery.com.au

“We encourage community groups, organisations and clubs to apply for a grant and we have a range of online resources and support to help them submit The only way an application.” to apply for a community grant is Grant Writing Workshop through the online To help groups and SmartyGrants organisations with their system applications, Council is holding a free grants writing workshop. When: Thursday 24 February 2022, 11am-1pm Where: Willis Room, Whitehorse Civic Centre, 379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Bookings: https://bit.ly/3tF5aaj L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/grants-community grants@whitehorse.vic.gov.au 9262 6116

February 2022

Working for Whitehorse Tending to our trees Callan Walker leads Council’s Arborist team. With more than 15 years’ experience in the industry, he knows how to help our natural environment flourish. Callan joined Council more than three years ago and says one of the best things about working at Whitehorse is the staff. He says that the great working relationships he has with teams across the organisation makes his job much easier. Callan and his team worked hard throughout the pandemic to keep after our trees and open spaces safe and presentable. During lockdowns our community relied on these open spaces more than usual. We also had major storms to contend with. As team leader, Callan manages a lot more than

tree pruning. In a normal day, he can liaise with a range of Council departments to ensure that projects do not negatively impact the parks and natural environment in Whitehorse. He has also been contributing to recent plans including our Urban Forest Strategy 2021-31. This strategy includes a target of increasing the Whitehorse tree canopy from 18 per cent to 27 per cent by 2031. There are also approximately 350 Council managed facilities with trees requiring yearly maintenance. The Arborist team liaises with many different organisations to manage these sites including Yarra Valley Water and Comdain MultiNet Gas. Making a difference for the community by “replanting new street trees, minimising risks and removing hazards to protect the community” is one of the things Callan enjoys most about his job.

Suburban Rail Loop

Box Hill

The Victorian Government is currently planning the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL).

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The first stage of the project is an underground train line between Cheltenham and Box Hill, including new train stations in Box Hill and Burwood. Thank you to community members who participated in Council’s recent community engagement activities to let us know their thoughts about the project. The feedback received will help shape what Council advocates for in order to achieve the best outcomes for the community. The key messages we heard is that the community would like Council to advocate for:

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Direct underground connection between the existing Box Hill station and the new SRL station Protect vegetation and open space, particularly in Box Hill Gardens Provide support to impacted businesses and residents Connect the cycling path along Whitehorse Road to the existing Box Hill to Ringwood path and the proposed Box Hill to Hawthorn path

Burwood ■

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Direct underground connection between the Burwood station and the northern side of Burwood Highway Protect vegetation and open space Provide support to impacted businesses and residents

Tunnels ■

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Protect the integrity of structures, open space and vegetation above the tunnels Limit noise and vibration from the tunnel’s construction and operation

These priorities are reflected in Council’s submission to the Victorian Government regarding the project’s Environmental Effects Statement (EES). Visit Council’s website for more information on the outcomes of the community engagement activities and to read Council’s EES submission. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ suburban-rail-loop www.suburbanrailloop.vic.gov.au

February 2022

Have all the relevant Whitehorse news and events delivered to your inbox Council has recently updated its email subscription categories to make it easier for you to keep informed about your favourite topics. The following is a list of the ten different mailing lists that you can now subscribe to: 1. General communications, Whitehorse News, community consultations. 2. Culture, creative arts, performing arts, venues, festivals, heritage. 3. Sports, fitness, playgrounds, parks, bushland reserves. 4. Health, wellbeing, parenting, children, youth information, healthy ageing. 5. Volunteering, jobs, grants. 6. Sustainable living, recycling, waste, trees, gardening. 7. Cycling, walking, public transport, roads. 8. Development, planning, building, local economy, business.

“A community facility for everyone”, says Mayor

9. Pets, wildlife, pests. 10. Emergency management, community safety, alerts.

Construction of the new Whitehorse performing arts centre is well underway with preliminary earth works completed.

You can also keep updated on what is happening in Whitehorse and interact with Council on social media. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/subscribe-news-and-updates

Ready, Set....... Glow! Celebrate the Arts once again in 2022 The Whitehorse Performing Arts Season 2022 will lift your spirits and spark your imagination! Experience passion, drama, music and song with performances from Kutcha Edwards, Jillian Murray, Slava & Leonard Grigoryan and many more. The hilarious Wharf Revue return to deliver their uniquely satirical take on the many wild and wonderful creatures from the world of politics. The season also offers three fabulous children’s shows including a manic and magical performance by the very popular contemporary circus company Circa.

Since Kane Constructions started work in November 2021, the stormwater system and inground services have been installed, the concrete piles poured and basement slab works started.

GLOW Subscription packages are available from Monday 14 February 2022 and individual ticket sales begin on Tuesday WHITEHORSE 1 March 2022 at 10am.

PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAM

A full feature on the Whitehorse performing arts season 2022 will appear in the March edition of Whitehorse News.

2022

L More information www.whitehorsecentre.com.au/ redevelopment 9262 6555

Whitehorse Mayor Cr Tina Liu recently inspected the site to view construction progress firsthand. “It’s wonderful to see the works activity in full swing on this exciting project. The new centre will be a community facility that offers something for everyone,” Cr Liu said. The Box Hill City Band, one of the oldest and strongest community bands in Victoria with about 100 musicians, performed many times in the former Whitehorse Centre soundshell. Band President and 50-year member Graham Homes is looking forward to the senior and junior bands being able to play on the new soundshell stage. “We’ve played at both the Whitehorse Carols and Spring Festival events and it’s always a great atmosphere,” Graham said. “When the people of Whitehorse come together at the amphitheatre it’s just like a mini Myer Music Bowl. It’s going to be wonderful for our bands to play for the community on the new larger soundshell stage.” L More information www.whitehorsecentre.com.au/ whitehorse-centre-redevelopment

February 2022

Parent Information Forums The Health & Family Services team is proud to announce the schedule for the Parenting Information Forum program for 2022. Over the past couple of years the program has been responsive to meet our community needs and expectations alongside pandemic restrictions. In 2021, the program was moved to an online program and saw 879 people access the program. Our 2022 program starts this month. Council believes that effective parenting influences a child’s lifelong development and overall well being. We offer this program to support parents in their important role. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov. au/parenting-informationforums

Suicide Conversations for Parents and Carers

Building Media Literacy in our Children and Teens Presented by: Martine Oglethorpe, The Modern Parent When: Thursday 24 February Age range: 8 to 18 years Our children are increasingly consuming news, information and entertainment online, and socialising online. This session helps parents build their kids’ and teens’ media literacy and manage their online interactions.

Presented by: Neami National When: Tuesday 8 March Age range: 8 to 25 years This webinar is designed to increase the confidence and skills or parents/carers to recognise and respond to risk of suicide. Thoughts of suicide are common in the community, and the more we understand why people feel this way, the greater we can practise early intervention and support This session has been informed by lived experience and focuses on early intervention, and is useful for all parents/carers to increase understanding of a common issue in society.

Young Person of the Month – Lauren Innes Leaders often lead, though it takes a special person like Lauren Innes to nurture those coming up through the ranks. Some would say that time is not on Lauren’s side, but it’s what she does with it that counts. The 26-year old spends much of her week teaching at four schools across Melbourne in classroom music, instrumental brass and bass guitar lessons, conducting bands and ensembles of young musicians. After hours, she conducts the Box Hill Academy Brass and tutors private students. Her weekends are spent tutoring more private students plus playing football for Blackburn Football Club and cricket for Kerrimuir. Lauren is also a regular at assisting in other community band rehearsals like Box Hill City Band’s most senior ensemble.

Lauren is known to be a humble, well-rounded person who leads by example. She has a nurturing leadership style and upholds equal opportunity, irrespective of her students’ gender, age or background. Furthermore, Lauren values her relationships with teammates and friends as well as her strong rapport with students and their families. Lauren’s list of achievements seems endless. For example, she conducted Box Hill Academy of Brass at the 2018 Australian National Band Championships to 4th place in Junior C Grade. Though, her selfless acts of kindness off-stage and out of the classroom that she is particularly known for. In recent years, she has organised awards, presents and Christmas cards for each band member. If members were absent, then she will travel around the neighbourhood to deliver presents and cards so no one misses out.

February 2022

Australia Day Civic Awards Congratulations to these Australia Day Civic Award winners. “I would like to congratulate the recipients of the Whitehorse Civic Awards. We are very fortunate to have many dedicated and selfless locals and groups who have given so much back to the community. Thank you for all that you do,” said Whitehorse City Council Mayor Tina Liu.

Young Citizen of the Year – Olivia Gargano Olivia is a very accomplished athlete in Karate and both Inline and Ice Hockey. She has many achievements under her belt which is impressive given her young age of 12 years. She is currently a Black Belt in Karate and working towards her 1st Dan. Olivia is also a Goaltender for Inline and Ice Hockey. In 2021, she was selected to represent Victoria at a national level for Karate and Inline Hockey nationals. Her hard work and dedication at sport doesn’t get in the way of her school work. In fact, Olivia was chosen as a STEM leader for her Grade 6 class. She is also a house caption, talented flute player and great role model for her peers.

Community Achievement Awards Greg Buchanan Greg played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Surrey Hills Progress Association to help retain the heritage and character of the area. Greg became Secretary and has served on the committee since then, including as Treasurer and currently as President. He has advocated for many community issues including as a member on the Level Crossing Removal Project’s Community Reference Group. For more than a decade, Greg has helped preserve and protect his community which will benefit generations to come. Alan Close Alan has been an extremely active and enthusiastic committee member of the Whitehorse Arts Association for the past 23 years. He has also served on the committee as President and Vice-President and produced 253 copies of the monthly association magazine. From 2000 onwards, he organised at least two art shows a year and volunteers at monthly demonstration afternoons. Alan also played a pivotal role in keep members together and connected during the pandemic.

Citizen of the Year – Bwe Thay

Ben and Jane Frawley

Bwe has made outstanding contributions through his volunteer work with Australia’s multicultural and new and emerging communities.

In 2019, Ben and Jane set up Mitcham Community Meal where they provide weekly meals to those in need. They organise rosters of volunteers and businesses to cater to 50-60 people each week. Not only do they offer meals, they also source other items to assist community members.

His advocacy has informed policy and programs at a federal, state and local level and also improved services offered to migrants. His leadership is also very hands-on and practical. Through the pandemic, Bwe has worked long hours to make sure our multicultural communities were supported with food relief, information, mental health assistance and outreach events. Prior to arriving in Australia in 2009, Bwe lived in a refugee camp on the Thai-Burma border. While in the camp he established an educational program to improve the employment prospects of fellow refugees. He has been part of many community groups and is currently Vice-President of the Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues (Eastern Region) Inc.

Sport and Recreation Award – Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club’s Time/Out program, which was a six week, free, all-female and non-rugby program, attracted a wider group of women in the community to become more physically active. After researching female participation trends in Victoria, the Club developed a ground-breaking program to address the gender-based number gap. The program registered 32 participants and helped provide confidence, physical and mental wellbeing, skill development and overcome fears.

During the pandemic, they went to great effort to ensure meals could still be provided. Ben and Jane were nominated together but each received an individual Community Achievement Award. Adult Girl Guide Leaders - Whitehorse District Girl Guides Forty-three Girl Guide leaders in the Whitehorse District were instrumental in developing a program to engage members during the pandemic. The leaders learnted how to use online platforms and encouraged members to participate in innovative programs such as virtual camps, overnight stays and interactive weekly meetings. By continuing to provide a Girl Guide program during the past two years, these leaders have contributed to the positive mental health of young people in Whitehorse and kept our communities connected.

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

Eley Ward

Elgar Ward

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

Trudy Skilbeck 0435 188 822 trudy.skilbeck@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

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

Lake Ward

Mahoneys Ward

Denise Massoud – Deputy Mayor 0409 230 499 denise.massoud@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Mark Lane 0435 387 526 mark.lane@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Whitehorse City Council is divided into 11 single-councillor wards. Our Councillors have been elected to serve until October 2024.

Show your love for local this Valentine’s Day Whether you have been together three months or three decades, Valentine’s Day can be stressful. But you do not have to travel far to let your partner know how you feel about them. If food is the way to your beloved’s heart, then look no further as almost 25 per cent of businesses in our retail shopping strips sell food and beverages. Perhaps you fancy a coffee and a stroll along Gardiners Creek Trail? Or, what about a romantic brunch in Blackburn or an inspired cooking class to bring the spark back? You can also support your local florists. A hand-tied bouquet, regardless of size, can say so much. #ThinkLocalBuyLocal because you can’t buy love, but you can buy local… and that’s kind of the same thing! Image: East Vermont Florist

Valerie Donlan, a Lake ward resident, has had her efforts recognised, receiving one of ten COTA (Council of the Ageing) Senior Victoria awards.

I hope you have had a restful and relaxing time over the Christmas/ festive and summer period, despite the occasional rain and humidity.

As Whitehorse Citizen of the Year in 2020, past President and active contributor to U3A Nunawading and also at state level, Valerie is a willing volunteer, working hard during COVID lockdowns, assisting with Zoom classes and keeping members connected. Valerie epitomises the characteristics of a great volunteer: good principles, a strong work ethic and a person with great communication skills. Congratulations, Valerie!

I hope you had the opportunity to experience ‘The Plants’ at Brentford Square in January and pick up a free Indigenous plant for your garden. What a great turnout and response we had for this event. Please let me know your feedback on ‘The Plants’ experience.

Blackburn Men’s Walk and Talk An exciting new community initiative, Blackburn Men’s Walk and Talk, is a local walking program where men can develop meaningful and supportive connections with each other while enjoying the health benefits of walking in nature. Walks will start at 8am on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month starting and finishing outside the railway station on South Parade, Blackburn. The walks will follow a circular route of 5km using quiet back roads to link walking trails through Blackburn Lake Sanctuary and along the Blackburn Creeklands. The first walk will be on 5 February. Residents have in recent years ranked feeling connected, physical activity and mental health as their greatest challenges to health and wellbeing. This program is a great opportunity and walks will finish with a chance to grab a coffee and have a chat. Details available at Blackburn Men’s Walk and Talk Facebook page or phone 9878 6632. Wishing everyone good health and happiness in 2022. Denise

Strathdon homestead is now finished and is looking fabulous. If you have not gone for a walk to see the homestead, I encourage you to take some time to meander through the area and enjoy the outdoors. For a bigger challenge, park the car at the Springvale Rd end and see how far you can go. Would be great to hear how far you made it (Terrara Rd, Bellbird Dell, or even Boronia Rd): send a photo of your escapades as well. Keep an eye out as we will soon be into another budget consultation. Take the opportunity to review and have your say on how Council provides services across the municipality. Let’s hope 2022 enables us to get out and meet each other again in person and enjoy the many pursuits our great city has to offer.

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

Walker Ward

Simpson Ward

Cr Amanda McNeill 0435 158 360 amanda.mcneill@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

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

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

Sparks Ward

Wattle Ward

Terrara Ward

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

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

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

I hope everyone had a good break over the festive season. In the midst of the ongoing pandemic, I would like to once again thank our Whitehorse community for their perseverance and patience throughout this time. In speaking with our business community, including those in Box Hill, the emergence from lockdown has seen a pick-up of traffic. However the onset of the Omicron variant and the reintroduction of some restrictions has impacted the recovery process. I continue to advocate and discuss with Council’s Economic Development and Investment team, the various levels of government and business groups/bodies, in how we can continue to and provide further support to our Whitehorse businesses and economy. We can also all do our part by choosing to shop locally wherever we can. It is lovely to attend a number of local events, including the virtual Whitehorse Civic Awards, opening the ‘Where in the World?’ Big Art Quilt Exhibition at the ArtSpace, Box Hill Christmas Movie Night at Box Hill Gardens (pictured), Lunar New Year Media Launch, Box Hill Rugby Club (Broncos) Season Launch and unveiling of new field lights at Sparks Reserve, Surrey Park Model Boat Club and Greenlink Box Hill’s Christmas functions, Box Hill Community Choir Christmas Carols performance, Charity and Multiart Association and Eastern Health Foundation joint charity event. It is great to see our community members and groups continue to thrive and adapt during these times. There is much to do in the year ahead. I hope 2022 – the Year of the Tiger – will be a much better year for all. Take care and until next time, Tina

1 February is the first day of the Lunar New Year and marks the start of the Year of the Tiger. The Tiger has traits of leadership, respect and acting assertively as well as being courageous, energetic, outspoken and prone to taking risks, which suits perfectly for economic recovery post COVID-19. The Lunar New Year festival lasts for 16 days and allows for families, friends and the broader community to celebrate. I’d like to wish all members of the community who celebrate this festival the very best Year of the Tiger. Continuous Improvement and Transformation

Happy New Year to all. I wish everyone a safe, healthy and productive New Year. Unfortunately, we haven’t started the year anywhere near as well as I had hoped, as we are still at the mercy of this dreaded virus. I have to say though, despite a quiet start, my New Year has taken a positive turn. Last week, I heard from a resident how delighted he and his neighbours were at the street trees in their court. The botanical name for these stunning trees is Corymbia Ficifolia commonly known as Red Flowering Gum. They are small ornamental trees with an expected maximum height of 10 metres. Flowering occurs from December to May.

I’m pleased to report that there are a number of Continuous Improvement Projects completed or underway to get better value for your rates. Looking forward, I’m pleased to support Council’s transformation program which expands Council’s continuous improvement focus, and systematically review all Council’s services over time. For details on the transformation plan, please see the Council plan at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/council-plan Deakin University Library In Wattle Ward, Deakin University provides a library which is well-resourced for secondary school students and is available for general community use. For details on how to join as a community member, please visit www.deakin.edu.au/library/join/communityand-oua parkrun – 4th Anniversary I’d like to congratulate parkrun on its fourth anniversary at Gardiner’s Creek Reserve. parkrun is a free weekly timed 5km walk/run open every Saturday at 8am and is organised by volunteers, including my Councillor colleague, Cr Munroe of Cootamunda Ward. If you would like to participate, please register at www.parkrun.com.au/gardinerscreek

Have you been to Terrara Park lately? If you have, you would have noticed the finishing touches being applied to the pavilion. I was fortunate to have a look inside the other week and it really is impressive. This purpose-built building has a central social room, kitchenette and separate commercial kitchen. The change rooms, coaches’ rooms and storage facilities are located at either end of the complex. An undercover viewing area extends along the width of the pavilion. All being well, the opening is scheduled for the end of February. Until next time, take care and stay well.

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Prominent parks and reserves ■ Apex Park ■ Banksia-Waratah Reserve ■ Mont Albert Reserve ■ Murray Drive Reserve

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Spotlight on Kingsley Ward with Cr Amanda McNeill

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“Named after Kingsley Gardens on Whitehorse Road, our residents love the leafy environment. It’s a great spot to picnic. Mont Albert Reserve, Dunloe Avenue Mont Albert North is loved by the community, dog walkers, Mont Albert Cricket Club and Surrey Park Lacrosse Club. New fences, dog facilities, toilets open seven days a week, picnic table, outdoor basketball court, playground, and on-demand lighting from May to September make this a ‘must’ destination for all. Matilda’s Café nearby is very popular with locals. Mont Albert Village Hamilton Street is very special with its old-world charm and village vibe. Cafés, jewellery, fashion, local supermarket, butcher, fruit and veg, post office, newsagent, professional services and an upholstery specialist make this a unique area of Whitehorse and Melbourne that is cherished by locals and visitors alike.” – Cr Amanda McNeill

Rate cap for 2022/2023 The Victorian Government has set a 1.75% rate cap for 2022/2023 under its Fair Go Rates system.

Rates provide around 58% of Council’s total annual income, which helps to deliver more than 100 services to residents.

The rate cap limits the amount councils can increase rates each year and applies to the council’s total rate revenue and not individual properties. Individual rates may increase or decrease by more (or less) than the 1.75% based on assessments made by the Victorian Government’s Valuer-General. This may occur because the value of the property has increased or decreased in relation to the value of other properties in the area.

Rates fund various Council services, including: ■ home and community care for elderly and disabled residents ■ maintaining roads, footpaths, parks and gardens ■ maintaining sports grounds and leisure centres ■ maternal and child health

Only the general rate is subject to the rate cap. Other fees and charges for services provided by Council remain uncapped.

Rates notices for the 2022/2023 financial year are issued in August/September. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/rates

February 2022

Caring for the Community Branch out and learn about eucalypts Tony Slater is a curious life-long learner and a passionate advocate for nature. He credits his father – a dairy farmer who loved animals – for his own passion for nature. “In high school I did Biology and loved it,” Tony reveals. “My first degree majored in Botany and Zoology so it could’ve gone either way. My passion is for living things” His masters’ degree in reproductive biology launched his career, firstly in native orchids, then wildflowers. Tony has travelled for work from Tasmania to Cape York in Australia, and as far as Europe including the Arctic Circle and Romania. “Nature is just fascinating – it’s the way that plants and animals interact and are interdependent on each other.” Tony volunteers for Council’s Gardens for Wildlife and Environmental Education programs to give back to his community. During lockdown, he wrote the Guide to the Eucalypts of Whitehorse as a way to keep learning and share his knowledge when he couldn’t volunteer. “When I worked with cut flowers, I got to know the wildflowers, right up to a few acacia and eucalypts that were used for those purposes. But I didn’t know the eucalypts. Because I do have a degree of knowledge most people don’t have, hopefully

[the guide] will interest them to learn about them as well and appreciate them.” The 40-page guide includes 18 Indigenous eucalypt species and 20 non-Indigenous; a go-to guide for Whitehorse residents. Tony’s idea for the guide developed after a few conversations with Belinda Moody, Tree Education Officer for Council’s City Planning and Development team. She supported the need for a eucalypt guide that covers species in the municipality. “There are some wonderful guides to eucalypts of Victoria or of the south-east of Australia,” Belinda says. “But we were lacking a guide that focuses on our local area.”

Road condition survey Council’s contractors are assessing the condition of our roads and footpaths to prioritise improvement works. During February and March, you may see cars and bikes with large cameras travelling across Whitehorse. Please note that no personal or identifying information will be recorded.

During the writing process in lockdown, Tony received help from Belinda and Council’s arborists. Plus, Tony was within five kilometres from Blackburn Lake and Dandenong Creek among other reserves which helped develop the guide. “I could go out testing the guide. The key was re-written a number of times [to include] characteristics that are around for most of the year – buds, nuts, bark – to make it useful for most of the year.” So how can residents learn about eucalypts at ground level? “Learn one a day,” Tony suggests. “If people can learn what’s the eucalypt at the moment that’s losing its bark and showing nice orange new bark then those people will be helped.” L Download the guide at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ eucalypts-whitehorse Below: Council’s Tree Education Officer Belinda Moody with volunteer Tony Slater.

Nature illustration with Angharad Neal-Williams Working with plants collected from the area, Angharad will teach you the skills to draw strong lines and shapes to develop your own still life nature drawing. This class is aimed at adults with an interest in art and no previous drawing skills. All materials for this class will be supplied. When: 1.30pm-3.30pm, Saturday 12 February Where: Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct, 449-465 Springvale Road, Forest Hill. Please check in at the main reception desk inside Strathdon House. Cost: $25 per person Bookings essential: 9262 7688 or strathdon@whitehorse.vic.gov.au Participants must adhere to terms and conditions of entry as per current Victorian Government guidelines. L More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ strathdon-learn

February 2022

WHITEHORSE CALENDAR WHERE IN THE WORLD: AN AUSTRALIAN QUILTERS ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION:

Pruning keeps trees clear of power lines Council manages tree pruning on public land to ensure safe distances between trees and power lines. Pruning will occur in Vermont South during February. Pruning is done in accordance with the Electric Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2020 and also with Council’s Electric Line Clearance Management Plan. More information: www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ naturestrips

为地方社团组织提供支持市议会的年度 Community Grants Program（社区补助金计划）的申请时间为 2 月 21 日星期一上午 9时至 3月 18 日星期五下午 5 时。位于 Whitehorse 或与 Whitehorse 社区有合作关系的非营利性社团组织均可申请资助，用以开展对我们的社区福祉有积极贡献的活动、服务和项目。免费的资助申请书写作讲座时间：2 月 24 日星期四上午11时至下午 1 时地点：Whitehorse City Council 内的Willis Room（地址：379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading）报名预约：https://bit.ly/3tF5aaj

Subscribe to Whitehorse News e-version www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ whitehorse-news

When: until 12 February Where: Whitehorse Artspace Come and explore this exciting exhibition of quilts created in response to the theme “Where in the World”. Quilters from across Australia interpreted the theme through time, space, form and meaning. The result? Original, surprising and skilfully-made works of art. As part of the exhibition, there are a series of quilting demonstrations running every Saturday afternoon. The exhibition, presented by the Australian Quilters in Public Places, closes on 12 February.

BOX HILL COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE Do you want to have fun and learn a new skill in 2022? There are a range of short courses for adults starting this month, from botanical illustration, wheel work and pottery, ceramics, gentle yoga, mixed media, painting, sculpture, art therapy and community choir. Kids can also get involved in a variety of short courses and workshops this term. From yoga flow, clay wheel work and comic art, there is something for your child to choose from. Numbers are limited and age limits apply. More information: www.bhcac.com.au/whats-on/ courseandworkshops

NATURE - 自然 MELBOURNE ARTISTS ASSOCIATION When: 17 February – 12 March Where: Whitehorse Artspace Local artists from the Melbourne Artists Association present a spectacular exhibition of nature in Chinese scrolls and paintings. Traditional and contemporary methods portray landscapes of sweeping mountains and plant life, with trees and flowers in glorious blooms. Unquestionably, the multitude of artworks in this exhibition define the very word nature. Image: Chijian Ye (2021) Golden Wattle (detail) [oil painting on silk]

When: Various dates starting from 1 February Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre, 470 Station Street, Box Hill

Hỗ trợ các nhóm và câu lạc bộ cộng đồng tại địa phương

Υποστήριξη τοπικών κοινοτικών ομάδων και συλλόγων

Supporto per gruppi e club comunitari locali

Đơn đăng ký cho Community Grants Program (Chương trình Tài trợ Cộng đồng) hàng năm mở từ 9 giờ sáng thứ Hai 21 tháng Hai đến 5 giờ chiều thứ Sáu 18 tháng Ba. Các nhóm, tổ chức và câu lạc bộ cộng đồng philợi-nhuận có trụ sở tại Whitehorse hoặc làm việc với cộng đồng Whitehorse có thể đăng ký xin tài trợ cho các hoạt động, dịch vụ và chương trình có đóng góp tích cực cho phúc lợi của cộng đồng chúng ta.

Οι αιτήσεις για το ετήσιο Community Grants Program (Πρόγραμμα Κοινοτικών Επιδοτήσεων) του Δήμου είναι ανοιχτές από τις 9 π.μ. τη Δευτέρα 21 Φεβρουαρίου μέχρι τις 5 μ.μ. την Παρασκευή 18 Μαρτίου. Μη κερδοσκοπικές κοινοτικές ομάδες, οργανισμοί και σύλλογοι που εδρεύουν στο Whitehorse ή συνεργάζονται με την κοινότητα Whitehorse μπορούν να υποβάλουν αίτηση χρηματοδότησης για δραστηριότητες, υπηρεσίες και προγράμματα που συμβάλλουν θετικά στην ευημερία της κοινότητάς μας.

Le domande annuali per il Community Grants Program (programma del Consiglio comunale per finanziamenti alla comunità) possono essere presentate dalle ore 9:00 di lunedì 21 febbraio alle ore 17:00 di venerdì 18 marzo. Gruppi, organizzazioni e club senza scopo di lucro con sede a Whitehorse o che operano nell’ambito della comunità di Whitehorse possono presentare domanda per il finanziamento di attività, servizi e programmi che contribuiscano positivamente al benessere della nostra comunità.

Những tài trợ miễn phí cho hội thảo viết Khi nào: Thứ Năm 24 tháng Hai, 11g sáng – 1g trưa Ở đâu: Willis Room, Whitehorse City Council 379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Đặt chỗ: https://bit.ly/3tF5aaj

Δωρεάν εργαστήριο συγγραφής επιδοτήσεων

Seminario gratuito su come scrivere una domanda per la richiesta di finanziamento

Πότε: Πέμπτη 24 Φεβρουαρίου, 11 π.μ. – 1 μ.μ. Που: Willis Room, Whitehorse City Council 379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Κρατήσεις: https://bit.ly/3tF5aaj

Quando: giovedì 24 febbraio, dalle 11:00 alle 13:00 Dove: Willis Room, Whitehorse City Council 379-399 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Prenotazioni: https://bit.ly/3tF5aaj