Issuu

Spring 2026

Your

Edition : 60

YARRA RANGES

Karwarra in bloom this spring

Celebrate Children’s Week in Yarra Ranges

Water play parks opening for spring

Your Yarra Ranges – Spring 2026 As I write what will be my final column for this Mayoral term, I’ve been reflecting on what an incredible privilege it has been to serve as Mayor of Yarra Ranges. Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand the many things that make our region such a special place to live. From attending citizenship ceremonies and welcoming new Australians into our community, to celebrating Reconciliation Week, meeting young leaders, opening community events and connecting with residents across our 55 townships, I’ve seen the passion, resilience and generosity that define Yarra Ranges. One of the most rewarding aspects of the role has been seeing important projects progress from planning to delivery. Just one year into our new Council Plan, we’ve already achieved significant milestones, including the launch of ngurrak barring in the Dandenongs and the opening of the Warburton Bike Park, further strengthening Yarra Ranges’ reputation as one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations. These achievements are important, but they are only part of the story. Every day, Council continues to deliver more than 120 services that support our community. We maintain roads, footpaths and drains, advocate on behalf of residents, and work alongside our community on the issues that matter most.

A word from our Mayor

I’d like to sincerely thank my fellow Councillors, Deputy Mayor Cr Gareth Ward, Council staff and the wider community for their support throughout the year. Serving as Mayor has been a genuine honour, and I look forward to seeing more Council Plan actions delivered in the years ahead. Before I close, I’d also like to acknowledge the recent developments regarding Avian Influenza H5N1. As this newsletter goes to print, cases have been reported in Victoria. While this news is concerning, it’s important that we remain informed and vigilant. Please avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife, and the areas around them. If you see sick or dead wild birds, record what you observe and contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 immediately. The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) will assess reports and determine the appropriate response. Community reporting plays a vital role in helping authorities respond quickly and effectively. For more information, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu. Thank you for the opportunity to serve this remarkable community.

Cr Richard Higgins, Mayor of Yarra Ranges

Sign up to have your say Shaping Yarra Ranges is Council’s one-stop webpage for community engagements. By signing up, you can be notified directly when new engagements open, for everything from playground

designs to pavilions, master plans through to Council’s annual budget. You can choose what projects you’re interested in hearing about, and find out more about pop ups, information sessions and other in-person events. We’d love to hear from you. Find out more and sign up at shaping. yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

Front cover photo: Waratahs and Boronias at Karwarra Australian Plant Garden and Nursery, Kalorama

Karwarra in bloom this spring Tucked behind Kalorama Memorial Reserve, Karwarra Australian Native Plant Garden is one of the Yarra Ranges’ hidden gems. Established in 1965 by the Mt Dandenong and District Horticultural Society, with support from Council, Karwarra is one of only a few public gardens dedicated entirely to Australian native plants. Home to thousands of native plants, the garden is at its most vibrant in spring and early summer, when native orchids, waratahs and wildflowers burst into bloom. It also provides important habitat for local wildlife, from birds, butterflies, insects and frogs to echidnas, wombats, native bush rats, sugar gliders and other possums. Today, the garden continues to be managed

by Council, with the help of the Friends of Karwarra group. The garden features artworks, a gallery space and a small function room, which is available for community groups to hire. Barbecues and picnic tables are also available at Kalorama Memorial Reserve. The garden and facilities are accessible. Visitors can also stop by the well-stocked native plant nursery and take home a favourite for the garden. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own garden or simply looking for a peaceful stroll through the garden, there’s never been a better time to visit Karwarra. The garden is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, and Sunday, 1pm to 4pm.

Waratahs in bloom Waratah, from the Eora Aboriginal word ‘warada’ meaning ‘beautiful’ or ‘seen from afar’, is one of Australia’s most spectacular flowers. In full bloom during spring and early summer, Karwarra has many species, hybrids and cultivars on display. Karwarra’s collection of Waratahs has been registered with the Plant Trust through the Garden Plant Conservation Association of Australia.

Exhibitions in the gallery

Upcoming events

•

‘My Yarra Ranges’ art exhibition 1 September – 30 September

Over 50s Festival

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‘100 years of Kalorama’ by Kalorama Collective

•

Garden tours and morning tea with Friends of Karwarra

3 October – 18 October

•

Garden tours 10.30am and 11.30am

•

‘Nature’s call’ by Lucienne

•

Morning tea 10am – 12 pm in the Karwarra function room.

24 October – 9 November

Celebrate Children’s Week in Yarra Ranges Children’s Week is a national celebration recognising the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children. Held each year in October, it’s a chance to celebrate children and the important role they play in our families and in the community. In 2026, Children’s Week will run from Saturday, 24 October to Sunday, 1 November. This year’s theme is ‘Children have the right to use their own language, celebrate their culture and practise their religion’. The theme recognises the importance of children being able to express themselves and celebrate their culture and identity. Each year, Yarra Ranges Council is proud to support Children’s Week and the many children and families who live in our community. Throughout the year, we provide and support a range of programs, services and opportunities that help children learn, connect, grow and thrive – from early years and kindergarten services to family support, community programs and activities. This year, there will also be plenty of opportunities to celebrate Children’s Week across Yarra Ranges, with activities and events for children and families happening throughout the week. Visit our website to see what’s happening as part of Children’s Week. You can also find information about school holiday activities, preschool and kindergarten, programs and services for families, resources for professionals and much more: www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Ourservices/Early-years-and-preschool

Bookaburra Storytime! Bring your children along to Bookaburra for interactive sessions filled with stories, rhymes and plenty of fun. Suitable for children aged 0–5 years, Bookaburra is a great way to support early literacy skills and foster a love of reading from a young age. Sharing stories together can also support children’s language, social and emotional development. Sessions are free and no bookings are required – just come along and join the fun! There are sessions in Chirnside Park, Kilsyth, Monbulk, Mt Dandenong, Mt Evelyn and Lilydale. To find your nearest session and times, visit our website: www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Explore-Yarra-Ranges/ Events/Bookaburra-Storytime

What Yarra Ranges needs from the next Victorian State Government With the 2026 Victorian State Election approaching in November 2026, Yarra Ranges Council is taking priorities shaped by the needs of our community directly to candidates and parties. We are calling for practical commitments that will make our region better connected, safer and fairer.

Our key election asks are:

Council is also calling on the Victorian Government to:

Prioritise safer pedestrian crossings

Expand access to affordable housing

$4 million to install new pedestrian crossings at high-risk locations, making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to move around the Yarra Ranges.

Improve public transport services Better-connected and more reliable bus and train services, alongside strategic investment in key transport infrastructure across the region.

Complete the Yarra Valley Trail $11 million to deliver the Birrarung/ Yarra River bridge crossing and boardwalk, completing the trail connection from Yering to Yarra Glen.

Create stronger planning requirements for affordable housing, helping deliver a greater variety of housing options for people at different ages and stages of life.

Strengthen services for young people Restore and prioritise funding for youth programs, safe spaces and services so our young people can access support and opportunities locally.

Prioritise funding for communities Provide councils with fair, sustainable and predictable funding to protect essential services, maintain community infrastructure and plan for future growth.

Council cannot achieve these outcomes alone. Community voices and real-life experiences help demonstrate why these priorities matter and strengthen the case we take to candidates, parties and government decision-makers. You can add your voice by completing our advocacy survey and telling us which State Election priorities and local issues matter most to you. Scan the QR code or visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/addyourvoice

Water play parks opening for spring Community members can splash into the warmer months ahead at Council’s water play parks, with Seville Water Play Park and Warburton Water World opening from 19 September, and Lillydale Lake Splash Park opening in time for the summer school holidays.

due to planned upgrade works to improve the reliability and operation of the water play park.

The water play parks will operate daily from 9am to 6pm, with closing time extended to 7pm during daylight saving.

On 5 October, the heated Belgrave Outdoor Pool opens for its summer season, with other pools opening later in the year. The Olinda Outdoor Pool will open from 5 December, followed by Healesville and Lilydale pools on 12 December.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the water play parks are some of Council’s most well-visited areas. “On hot days in the school holidays, people travel from far and wide to meet with friends and play at our water play parks, which is brilliant to see,” he said. “The parks are free to visit and with three of them in our region, no matter where you are in the Yarra Ranges, a park isn’t too far away. “If you’re visiting, remember to park safely and have a back-up option in mind if it’s a busy day. The parks run for nine hours a day, so there’ll always be a good time to enjoy them. Lillydale Lake Splash Park will open just prior to the summer holidays this season

“I look forward to the warmer weather and our aquatics facilities opening as spring and summer get underway.”

“Summer will be here before we know it. Until then, Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Jack Hort Memorial Pool and the Yarra Centre are open year-round for swimmers. “Our new partner, Aligned Leisure, is off to a great start in managing our aquatics facilities, and this will be another excellent season to have a swim locally. “Visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/pools to check your local opening hours and see what events may be on as the season gets underway.”

Cr Higgins encouraged locals to visit their nearest pool for a play or a swim.

Outdoor pools will remain open until March 2027.

“Swimming is a fantastic way to get active, to play, and to strengthen skills in the water, which can be crucial throughout our lives,” he said.

Water play parks will remain open until April 2027.

“We have some fantastic pools in the Yarra Ranges – from our indoor facilities servicing communities year-round, to our outdoor pools that thrive on hot summer days.

Warburton Water World and the Olinda Pool will be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating.

“Going to your local pool on a warm weekend, or dropping in after school is an affordable way to have some fun and get active.

Opening hours can be weather dependent.

Information on opening hours, and the end of the season for each pool is published on Council’s website at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ pools

Bookings

Just a taste of what’s coming

1300 368 333 yarraranges.vic.gov.au/culturetracks

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SEP–DEC 2026

creative yarra ranges

We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People as Custodians of this land and its waterways. We honour Elders past and present whose knowledge ensures the continued protection of Country and culture. The area we know today as Yarra Ranges has a deep and rich Aboriginal heritage extending beyond 40,000 years ago. This continuous culture is reflected in our community, organisations, festivals, celebrations and art.

@CultureTracks @baysidegallery @CultureTracksYarraRanges @baysidegallery Please contact us in advance if you need additional support to make the most of your participation in our events on 1300 368 333. Program details, including dates, times and lineups, may be subject to change.

EXHIBITION

Ella Thompson

MUSIC

Sat 21 Nov, 7:30pm The Memo Healesville $42.50 Full / $37.50 Conc

Play School: Come and Play!

Ella Thompson is a vital voice in modern soul. Mentored by Renée Geyer and having toured with Mark Ronson, she follows acclaimed solo releases with her new album, Triumph and Sadness.

14 Nov 2026 – 14 Mar 2027 Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Wed –Sun, 10am – 4pm Free entry, bookings essential

MUSIC

Celebrating 60+ years of Play School, this exhibition invites pre-schoolers behind-the-scenes to learn how an episode of the iconic series is made. An ACMI Touring Exhibition. Presented with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and supported by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program and Major Partner Blackmagic Design.

2 Oct – 4 Oct 2026 Arts Centre Warburton

Play School: Come and Play! 2026, ACMI. Photo © Eugene Hyland.

Beauty

The River Folk Festival 2026

DANCE

and the

Now in its 6th year, The River Folk Festival will be presenting a stellar program of performing artists over the weekend, featuring Victorian, interstate and international artists.

Beast

MUSIC

Victorian State Ballet Wed 23 Sep, 2pm & 7:30pm The Memo Healesville $43 Full / $39 Conc $36 Group 4+ $20 26yrs under A magical evening for the whole family. A spectacular fulllength classical ballet filled with romance, adventure and dazzling dance. Children will be captivated by their favourite fairy-tale characters, while adults will be moved by the elegance, artistry and breathtaking transformation scene. 8

Royal Australian Navy

Wind Band

Sat 7 Nov, 2pm Mooroolbark Community Centre $16 Full / $0 Under 18 with a full price ticket The wind band, consisting of up to 45 members, performs a wide variety of musical styles from traditional military marches and classical symphonic works, to music theatre and popular repertoire.

EXHIBITION

Rishu Kapoor Atelier

Silent Stories Stories in Coffee, Coffee in Stories

EXHIBITION

Yarra Valley Arts Exhibition Series

Open Studios 2026 Denise Smith - Art Tools, YVA Open Studios 2026

30 Sep – 1 Nov 2026 The Memo Healesville Free entry Yarra Valley Open Studios returns this Spring for its highly anticipated annual event.

The

20 Aug – 13 Dec 2026 Arts Centre Warburton Free entry This exhibition uncovers the quiet narratives embedded in everyday life. Painted in coffee, each artwork is adorned with delicate gold foiling, revealing the warmth, depth, and richness of human connection. Silent Stories: Kids Coffee Painting Workshop Thu 24 Sept Arts Centre Warburton 11am / 2pm $17.50 Rishu Kapoor Atelier, The First Fleet.

Music Room

EXHIBITION

6 Nov – 22 Nov 2026 The Memo Healesville Free entry An evolving participatory exhibition centred around a grand piano and live performance space inspired by the life and legacy of Yarra Valley Arts co-founder and violinist Nan Francis.

Outgrown OPENING EVENT Sat 28 Nov Free, bookings essential

EXHIBITION

26 Nov 2026 – 21 Mar 2027 The Memo Healesville Free entry

Inspired by the natural world and time spent in the garden, each handbuilt ceramic piece evolves intuitively, reflecting both the fragility and resilience of the human experience. Glenys Hodgeman, Outgrown.

Burrinja Climate Change Biennale #4 22 AUG – 25 OCT 2026

Scan for full program

Gondwana VR 15 Jul – 1 Nov 2026 Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Free entry Gondwana VR is a living, breathing virtual ecosystem that invites you to a one-of-a-kind, multiplayer durational experience. Gently unfurling over a day, each showing is unrepeatable: a quiet meditation on time, change and loss of an irreplaceable ecosystem. Gondwana VR is presented at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum as part of the 2026 Burrinja Climate Change Biennale. Gondwana VR , installation view in Wales, 2023, photo by Polly Thomas, © the artists

Listening deeply: developing a climate responsive relationship to land Fri 16 Oct, 11am–12:30pm Djirra Binak (located in bushland opposite Kalorama CFA) $33 Full / $27.50 Conc (plus booking fee) Join Murrup Biik (Aunty Kim Wandin and Chris Joy) at their dynamic sculptural installation Djirra Binak. You will be guided through a mindful and sensory connection to Country; an exploration of Wurundjeri perspectives, fibre plants and weaving practices; and the creative processes and inspiration behind this collaboration. Presented by ngurrak barring as part of the 2026 Burrinja Climate Change Biennale. Aunty Kim Wandin & Chris Joy (Murrup Biik) in collaboration with Collide Public Art Djirra Binak (Reed Basket), 2024 Photo: Cathy Ronalds

BCCB#4 Talks Three programs. Countless possibilities. Three thought-provoking programs co-curated by Burrinja, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum and the RMIT Regenerative Futures Institute. Sat 5 Sep Talk 1: Regenerative Futures: The imagination gap Unlocking change through creative disruption Sat 10 Oct Talk 2: Regenerative Futures: Healing cultures Designing regenerative systems Sat 17 Oct Talk 3: Regenerative Futures: Living through it Adaptation, justice and who gets to survive Burrinja Theatre 1:30pm – 3:30pm Free entry, bookings required burrinja.org.au

School Holiday Workshop:

Gondwana Cyanotype Printing for Kids Thur 1 Oct, 10am & 1pm Yarra Ranges Regional Museum $15 Full Harnessthe thepower powerof ofthe thesun sunininthis thisfun, fun,hands-on hands-on Harness printmakingworkshop workshopinspired inspiredby bythe theexhibition exhibition printmaking Gondwana VR. Gondwanna VR. Photographicartist artistand andeducator educatorRebecca RebeccaMurray Murray Photographic will guide kids through this exciting process. will guide kids through this exciting process. Thisworkshop workshopisispresented presented part of the 2026 Burrinja This asas part of the 2026 Burrinja Climate Change ClimateBiennale. Change Biennale.

Yarra Valley Trail What’s the best thing about our trails? The people who use them! Every year thousands of locals and visitors walk, run, cycle, horse ride, scoot and enjoy our fabulous trail network. Recently, Intercept and Observational Trail User Surveys were conducted along the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail and Yarra Valley Trail, to find out more about who, how, when and why people are on the trails. Intercept surveys speak directly to trail users, asking them a series of questions, while observational surveys capture what surveyors see and record. These two approaches, combined with trail counters placed at intervals along the trails, help us get a more complete picture of trail use. This information supports a range of activities from trail maintenance schedules, grant applications, and project upgrades.

What did trail users say? Respondents along the Yarra Valley Trail at Coldstream said they loved the peaceful scenery, and the feeling of safety of the trail, and being away from the highway. Many comments praised the infrastructure near Coldstream Station. One user described the “great amenities - lots of seats, water taps, maps, heritage stories, toilets.” Along with requests for some added extras – particularly a BBQ area, more shelter, and more seating. Trail users, surveyed at different points along the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, commented on the beautiful, peaceful scenery, well maintained trails and ease of shared use. Many users noted the friendly people they meet along the way! It’s great to hear that our trails are not only getting people moving, but also helping people connect with nature, their communities, and each other. Thanks to everyone who took the time to stop, chat and share their thoughts. Your feedback helps us make our trails even better. You can read more about the survey results on www.rideyarraranges.com.au

Councillor Catch Up

Cr Richard Higgins

Cr Gareth Ward

Chirnside Ward - Mayor

Chandler Ward - Deputy Mayor

It can feel like there’s always roadworks happening in Chirnside ward, but with our area serving as a key route to the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs, our roads experience heavy use and need regular investment to keep them safe and reliable. While recent works along Maroondah Highway are being delivered by Yarra Valley Water, Council is focused on improving local roads where we can make a real difference.

With flower farms and public gardens bursting into bloom, it’s the perfect time to explore this beautiful region, discover local treasures and enjoy everything that makes our community such a special place to live and visit.

One of our major projects is the new roundabout at the intersection of Edward and Paynes Roads in Chirnside Park. This busy route connects communities across the region and has long been affected by poor visibility and unsafe driver behaviour. The upgrade will make travel safer and easier to use for residents and visitors alike.

Replacing the 1970s building, the new pavilion will provide a modern, accessible, expanded facility that will better support local sporting clubs and community groups. It will include a multi-purpose community space, a meeting room, a kiosk, better storage and new all-gender change rooms for players and umpires alike.

Major works will continue through September and into mid-October, with delays expected for nonemergency traffic. Emergency services will retain access at all times.

Once complete, the Seville Neighbourhood House will relocate into the pavilion, creating a vibrant community hub where sporting clubs, community organisations and residents can come together, connect and thrive. Construction is expected to be completed later this year, and I’m looking forward to welcoming the community into this fantastic new facility soon.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete this important safety upgrade. We look forward to opening a safer, more efficient intersection soon.

Over spring, we’ll be busy progressing the redevelopment of the Seville Pavilion.

Cr Peter McIlwain

Cr Mitch Mazzarella

Cr Fiona McAllister

Lyster Ward

Melba Ward

Ryrie Ward

Spring is a great time to get out and enjoy everything Lyster has to offer.

I was thrilled to see the McDermott Avenue Reserve Master Plan adopted by Council recently, mapping out the future of this site with huge potential.

Construction of the Don Road Community Pavilion is set to commence in the coming weeks. The existing pavilion has been part of Healesville’s story for generations, hosting many important community moments. The new pavilion will provide a modern, accessible facility that better supports local sporting clubs, community groups and residents into the future.

Whether you’re exploring local gems like Birdsland, home to our much-loved platypus population, cheering on a local sporting team, or attending a community event, there’s plenty happening across our ward. Our community groups continue to do wonderful work, bringing people together, delivering local projects and events, looking after those who need support and cleaning up the neighbourhood. Many of these initiatives are supported by Council grants, helping great local ideas become reality. It’s also encouraging to see more and more people seeking opportunities to get involved. Being connected to your local community not only strengthens our neighbourhoods, but also makes life richer, healthier and more rewarding. If you’re looking for ways to get involved, our Council staff are a great place to start. They have a wealth of knowledge and can help connect you with groups, activities and opportunities that match your interests. Give us a call on 1300 368 333, email mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au, or drop in to one of our Council Community Links. We’d love to12 help you get connected.

The Master Plan lists 15 years’ worth of projects and works at the former netball facility, which will transform the site into public open space that locals and visitors alike will be proud to spend their time. The plan includes sealed paths for walking, running and on-lead dog walking, an interactive sensory garden, a playspace, climbing wall, a multi-purpose court for games and, of course, plenty of seating and places to relax. This site has fond memories for me – I used to ride my bike there when I was growing up – and I’m sure many in the community have memories there, too. When these works are completed, a whole new generation will be able to make memories in a space designed for them. Thank you to everyone who took part in the master plan process and gave their feedback. Visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au to read the master plan.

Across the ward, it has been fantastic to see so many people enjoying the first stages of the Yarra Valley Trail and facilities in Coldstream. The trail’s scenery, accessibility and amenities have been welcomed by residents and visitors alike. Work will continue soon as the trail extends towards Yarra Glen. Advocacy also continues for funding of the much-needed bridge across the Yarra (Birrarung) River, and I thank community members supporting this important project. Planning for the future remains a priority, with Council endorsing the Yarra Glen Township Plan and progressing the Healesville Township Design Framework. The formation of Project 3775 is another example of community leadership, and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together.

Cr Tim Heenan

Cr Jim Child

Billanook Ward

O’Shannassy Ward

As spring arrives and more people head outdoors to enjoy everything Billanook has to offer, it’s worth recognising the community volunteers who help make our community such a great place to live. From environmental groups caring for reserves and waterways, to community organisations running local events, volunteers contribute countless hours behind the scenes to bring people together and look after the places we love.

It’s wonderful to see continued progress on several projects that will benefit communities across the Upper Yarra. Work continues on the final stage of the Warburton Bike Park, which remains on track to open later this year. The new trails will add to the region’s appeal, creating more opportunities for locals and visitors to experience this special part of Australia.

One of the challenges many groups now face is finding the next generation of volunteers. Whether you’re a young adult, a busy parent, new to the area or simply looking to meet people, volunteering is a great way to build skills, make friends and give back to your community. The Mount Evelyn Township Group is currently seeking new volunteers to help continue great local traditions like the Mount Evelyn Street Party. Even a small commitment can make a big difference. If you’d like to get involved and help shape the future of Mt Evelyn, visit mtevelyntownshipgroup.org.au to learn more.

It’s also great to see new footpath works completed in Warburton and Wesburn, improving safety, accessibility and connections for pedestrians. I’m particularly pleased to share an outcome that reflects the strong community spirit of our region. For some time, I have supported calls to recognise the important contribution of the Rotary Club of Upper Yarra, which played a leading role in developing the Yarra Junction playground in the 1970s. The park will now officially be known as Rotary Park, ensuring that commitment and community legacy are properly recognised for generations to come. As always, please get in touch if there’s a local issue you would like to discuss. See you around the valley!

Cr Jeff Marriott

Cr Len Cox

Streeton Ward

Walling Ward

Spring has officially arrived in Streeton Ward, bringing the perfect excuse to step outside and soak up our stunning environment. As winter sports wrap up, local courts and grounds are buzzing with tennis, cricket, and lawn bowls. It’s a fantastic time to cheer on our teams or sample a new summer sport.

I’m excited to be attending the Kilsyth Festival at Elizabeth Bridge Reserve on 29 November.

Beyond the grounds, our local townships and villages are bursting with unique offerings. Be sure to check out the newly opened ngurrak barring. Stretching from the southern to northern aspect of our main ridges, it beautifully weaves together natural scenery and landmarks of inspiring artistic expression. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in village shops, exploring ridge trails, fossicking, or embracing local art, there are endless experiences across our fantastic Ranges. Let’s make the most of warmer days ahead, support local businesses, and enjoy everything our great community has to offer throughout this vibrant season!

The Festival was first held in 2014 and aims to highlight the community’s natural resources, educating the community about how we can all look after the environment and lead sustainable lives, setting up our future generations, our flora and our fauna to thrive. The logo for the festival is the long neck turtle, which you can find living at Elizabeth Bridge Reserve. The original name of the festival, Chelodina Festival, was based on the scientific name for the turtle. This is a reminder of the importance of taking care of our local environment, which is home to an incredible variety of native animals worth protecting. This event is a feat of planning from the Kilsyth Community Action Group, Friends of Elizabeth Bridge Reserve, and a passionate team of locals. I’m proud that we at Council support this key date in the community calendar. Find out more at kilsythfestival.com.au

Drainage a key focus for infrastructure works Council is prioritising several multi-year drainage projects, to help improve water flow and prevent flooding. As part of Council’s annual Capital Works Program, outlined in the Council Budget 2026-27, more than ten drainage projects are currently in design, with several moving to construction this financial year. Council recently began construction on a drainage project in Chapel Street, Lilydale. This project involves reconstructing the road, upgrading drainage infrastructure with kerb and channel, and new stormwater connections. The existing gravel carpark on Chapel Street will also be sealed to improve drainage flows during the works. Crews are making progress as they divert the main drain and the project is expected to be finished by November this year. Construction will also begin on several other drainage projects within the next 12 months, including: • Hazford Street in Healesville

• North Avenue in Mount Evelyn • Belle Vue in Lilydale • Morrison Reserve Detention System and • Lilydale Tennis Club Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said that drainage works were crucial for the environment, neighbourhood amenity and to future-proof the region. “The last five years have seen very significant weather events, from extreme wind to heavy rains and flash flooding, and we know that as the climate continues to change, extreme weather will become more frequent,” he said. “While there may still be times when extraordinary events overload our drainage systems, we can construct new drains and improve the ones we have to better handle water flow. “I’m excited to see these works get underway this year, and we’ll also be working on updated flood mapping, which will give us a better understanding of flood behaviour and help us plan our ongoing projects.

Cr Higgins said residents would be kept updated on these drainage projects. “For community members with projects in the design-phase, we’ll be in touch with details about expected construction timeframes; for locals in areas where new drains will be built, our teams will be sharing details of any impacts to your road ahead of construction beginning.” Cr Higgins said that maintaining and repairing existing drains was a focus, with teams taking an innovative approach to fixing local drains. “We’re taking modern steps to maintain our older drains, by installing lining and doing very targeted works. These approaches are proven, quick and cost-effective. “They will result in less disruption on the roads for our residents, and a quicker turnaround ahead of future rain events. “By keeping our existing drains working well, and expanding our network, we can help keep flooding to a minimum, protect public infrastructure and homes, and reduce the impact on local waterways and the environment.” For more information about Council’s upcoming Capital Works, read the recentlyadopted 2026-27 Council Budget.

Bundled branches collections coming soon Council’s annual bundled branches collections will take place over November and December, with community members encouraged to check their collection week on Council’s website to ensure they don’t miss out. Through November and December, households will be able to put out up to three cubic metres of branches to be collected during their designated collection week, free of charge. Branches must be tied with non-plastic string, with individual limbs no longer than 1.5m and no wider than 20cm. Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the bundled branches collection is a great way for residents to keep their properties tidy and fire-ready. “With spring upon us, we know that many residents will be tidying up their property and often have more garden waste at this time of year than their green bin can hold,” he said. “Our annual bundled branches collection helps residents to get rid of tree limbs easily, and acts as a good prompt to get everyone

thinking about fire safety ahead of the highrisk season.” Timber, stumps, roots, untied branches, bamboo and other materials cannot be put out for collection. To check your collection dates and a full list of items that will or will not be collected visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ bundledbranches After the November/December collections, the next opportunity for community members to put out bundled branches is when the annual hard waste collection begins in early-2027. Cr Higgins, said that hard waste collections were also an excellent way to safely dispose of and recycle electronic items that aren’t allowed to go in wheelie bins. “We know that when Christmas comes around, a lot of appliances and toys, tools and things around the house might get replaced,” Cr Higgins said. “Anything that can be powered – by batteries or a cord – is classified as e-waste and can’t go in any wheelie bins. E-waste can contain hazardous materials such as lead and

mercury that can harm the environment, as well as valuable materials such as copper that can be recycled. “Small hand-held electronic items can go into our new recycling hubs at Council Community Links for free. For a lot of residents, disposing of bigger items means taking them to the tip, which has a fee. Residents in the Yarra Ranges can instead dispose of these items for free in hard rubbish, or at our recycling hubs, and know that e-waste will be recycled or dealt with safely. “The three cubic metres of metal allowed in hard waste means you can put out the old washer or dryer, along with three cubic metres of furniture or bulky items (including mattresses and e-waste) that aren’t repairable.” To find out more about the 2027 hard waste collections, and check your dates, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/hardwaste For more information on Council’s recycling hubs visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/recyclinghubs

Get ready for fire season Yarra Ranges residents are being urged to prepare their properties for the fire season early this year, by clearing fine fuels like branches and leaves over spring.

your property are easy ways to prepare for the bushfire season, remember vegetation removal – such as removing trees – may require planning approval.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said that preparing ahead of summer was the best way to ensure the community was prepared for fire season and emergencies.

“We all have a part to play. In summer, Council’s work begins in earnest in reserves, on roadsides, and around powerlines. We prioritise this work, and it can be weather dependent at times, but it’s a crucial part of our own bushfire preparedness and a responsibility we take seriously.”

“The Yarra Ranges, particularly the Upper Yarra, has a much higher bushfire risk than other parts of Victoria. We can’t be complacent, and preparing is easier if we get started early and give ourselves plenty of time,” Cr Higgins said. “Keeping your grass mowed, picking up dead leaves, twigs and branches, and trimming back trees and plants from your house can make a world of difference on a high-risk day. “Clearing out your roof gutters, and debris around and under decks is also crucial. If you can get on top of this in spring, it’s easier to stay on top of it by the time summer comes around. While clearing leaf litter, sticks and mowing

While Council recommends considering alternative methods of fuel reduction first, burning off is permitted in some areas outside the Fire Danger Period. Strict conditions apply depending on whether your property is categorised as urban, bushland or rural and can include forecast windspeeds, minimum clearance, and supervision. Check yarraranges.vic.gov.au/burningoff to find out what category your property is in, and what is permitted. When the CFA’s Fire Danger Period for the Yarra Ranges begins later in the year, burning off without a permit will be prohibited

right across the municipality. Cr Higgins said a crucial part of staying fire-ready was to have a bushfire plan for your family and pets, to download the VicEmergency app and turn on notifications, to regularly check fire danger ratings, and to know when to leave. “Having a tidy property is an excellent start, but you should always have notifications switched on for the VicEmergency App. Knowing what your triggers are for leaving early, and what to do if a fire starts at your house, are also vital,” Cr Higgins said. “Know your trigger to leave, know where the things you need to take with you are, make sure you consider pets and livestock and always make sure that everyone in your family understands the plan. “It’s better to have a plan and not need it, than need it and not have one.” For more information about the Fire Danger Period and tips for preparing your property, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod

Yarra Ranges Council acknowledges the Wurundjeri and other Kulin Nation peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of these lands and waterways. We pay our respects to all Elders, past, present, and emerging, who have been, and always will be, integral to the story of our region. We proudly share custodianship to care for Country together.

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