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We are seeking community feedback on the proposed new laws, before deciding whether to introduce them. These changes are being proposed as part of a review of Monash’s overall Local Law No.3, which is nearly 10 years old and needs to be updated by February 2015.
The new local laws we are proposing include:
Giving Council the authority to fine property owners who don’t maintain the nature strips at the front of their properties. This proposal responds to complaints we receive from residents who are concerned that overgrown nature strips detract from the attractiveness of local streets. Under this proposal, Council could issue a $200 fine when the grass on a nature strip is longer than 30 cm. Council would only issue a fine as a last resort after several warnings. People who have sought and received a free Council permit allowing them to maintain plants on a nature strip, to a height of 50 cm, would be exempt from receiving a fine, on the understanding that they are actually making the neighbourhood more attractive.
Banning people from feeding uncaged animals in public areas. When people feed animals such as feral cats, it can attract more feral cats to the area, spreading
cat diseases and causing smells and other nuisances.
Requiring personal training businesses to apply for an $80 annual permit to run fitness sessions in local parks. This permit system would enable Council to control the location and noise of these activities, so other visitors to local parks are not inconvenienced.
Other proposals include: making local businesses more responsible for ensuring their shopping trolleys are not dumped in local streets, and requiring people to get a permit before discharging fireworks from Council land.
Council is also seeking community views on a proposal to introduce compulsory cat desexing. The RSPCA supports compulsory cat desexing, as it helps decrease the number of unwanted cats being born. Under our proposal, cats being registered for the first time in Monash would need to be desexed. Exemptions would apply, for example if a vet provided written advice that desexing would harm the health of a cat or for registered breeding purposes.
Tell us what you think of proposed lawsCouncil is proposing several new local laws which are aimed at making our neighbourhoods more attractive and enjoyable for all.
Please give us your feedback by Friday 5 September. You can find out more or have your say by:
• DROPPING in to a community information session:
Monash Civic Centre, Glen Waverley, on Monday 25 August, from 7pm-9pm
Oakleigh Seminar and Training Centre on Tuesday 26 August, from 7pm-9pm
• VISITING Council’s website, where there is an online survey that you can fill in to provide feedback: www.monash.vic.gov.au/local-law-review
• CONTACTING us on the phone (9518 3449), via mail at Local Law Review c/o P.O. Box 1, Glen Waverley 3150 or via email at [email protected]
monashw w w. m o n a s h .v i c . g o v. a ubullet in
Monash Bulletin | August 2014
We welcome feedbackabout the Monash Bulletin.Please give us your comments on 9518 3678 or at [email protected]
Monash Civic Centre293 Springvale RoadGlen Waverley, 3150Hours: 8.30am to 5pm
Monday to Friday
Oakleigh Service Centre3 Atherton RoadOakleigh, 3166Hours: 8.45am to 5pm
Monday to Friday
Telephone Facsimile9518 3555 9518 3444
National Relay Service 1800 555 [email protected]
Next Council meeting Council will hold its next meeting on Tuesday 26 August, from 7.30pm. The meeting will be held in the Council Chamber of the Monash Civic Centre (293 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley).
Community members are welcome to attend and can submit questions in advance for consideration at the meeting. The meeting’s agenda will be published on Council’s website on the Friday prior to the meeting.
For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/meetings or call 9518 3555.
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Neil is tops for leadershipAs the Sir John Monash Awards got underway, Waverley RSL President Neil Slaughter was flying across the Pacific Ocean on a long planned trip to America. “I looked down at my watch in flight and wondered what might be occurring,” Neil said. “I had no idea I would be receiving two awards that night.”
At the Council-organised awards held in May, Neil won Volunteer of the Year and an overall award for Outstanding Leadership. Having been involved with the Waverley RSL for 28 years, Neil’s achievements include bringing the ANZAC dawn service to the Glen Waverley Cenotaph (where it attracts about 1000
people each year) and ensuring the Waverley RSL is in a position to support those in need. He has been an incredible advocate for local veterans. RSL State President Major General David McLachlan said Neil was “a compassionate man with wonderful foresight and empathy for those for whom he feels a responsibility”.
Neil (pictured below with his family) has a great passion for developing other local leaders. One way he has done this is through the Norman A Smith Scholarship,
which the RSL sub-branch awards to local students, with the recipient delivering the keynote address at the ANZAC dawn service. “The young leaders are like a breath of fresh air. It’s good to see and hear positive stories about our youth in the community,” Neil said.
For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/awards or call 9518 3619.
Free new guideIf you’re interested in finding out more about Monash’s walking and cycling paths, get your hands on the new Monash Walking and Cycling Guide.
You can pick up a guide from local libraries, the Monash Civic Centre or the Oakleigh Service Centre.
If you would like us to mail you a guide, please call 9518 3555 or email [email protected]
DOG OFF-LEASH AREAS
Safe and regular dog walking is an important
part of being a dog-owner. There are 31 areas in
the City of Monash where dogs can be exercised
off their lead. For a list of these areas and more
information, please visit
www.monash.vic.gov.au/community/offlead.htm
Please remember to always take dog waste bags
and water for your dog when taking your dog
for a walk and clean-up after your dog when
necessary.
Please consider the following when
your dog is off-lead:
» Remain in effective voice or hand
management of the dog so you
can promptly place the dog on a
lead, if that becomes necessary
» Carry a lead no longer than
1.5m which can bring the dog
under effective control if the dog
threatens any person or animal
» Do not allow the dog to worry or
threaten any person or animal
» Always keep the dog in sight.
Bring the dog under control if it is or is
likely to be within 20 metres of:
» an organised sporting or practice
event that is underway
» an occupied children’s playground
» an organised public meeting
» an occupied permanent barbecue or
picnic area.
Brickmakers Park | 69 H6
Lake and water play area, pathways,
accessible playspace, BBQ, shelter, picnic
tables, toilets, along Scotchmans Creek
Trail. Stamford Rd, Oakleigh East
Federal Reserve | 61 D9
Natural bush parkland, walking tracks,
accessible playground, picnic tables and
shelter. Federal St, Mt Waverley
Central Reserve | 71 B5
Accessible playspace, skate park, sporting
grounds, athletics track, BBQ, picnic tables.
Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley
Holmesglen Reserve | 60 G12
Situated at the join of the Waverley
Rail Trail and the Gardiners Creek Trail,
accessible playground, shelter, BBQ, picnic
tables, wetlands, sporting grounds.
Power Ave, Ashwood
Lum Reserve | 71 F11
Native parkland and sporting grounds,
walking tracks, playground, BBQ, picnic
tables. Lum Rd, Wheelers Hill
Monash Gallery of Art | 71 J10
The Monash Gallery of Art is recognised
as one of Australia’s leading public
galleries. Boasting a nationally significant
collection of Australian photography, the
gallery’s permanent collection comprises
over 2,000 works. Adjoining the gallery
is a picturesque lake and park, bound by
Gallery Place and the Wheelers Hill library.
How to get there?
The Gallery is on the southeast corner of
Jells Road and Ferntree Gully Road.
Cycle access via Ferntree Gully Road on-
road bike lanes. This lane also joins with
the Jells Park shared pathways.
1 Valley Reserve | 70 G2
Valley Reserve is an urban bushland park,
offering a range of activities including
bushwalking tracks, shared pathways,
adventure play and picnic areas, BBQ and
toilets. There are areas of native bushland
and restored habitats where visitors can
take a bushwalk in the heart of Mount
Waverley.
How to get there?
Pedestrian/cycle access via Wills
Avenue or Regent Street branching off
Scotchmans Creek trail as it crosses
Waverley Road. Alternative pedestrian
access via Waimarie Drive and Valley Road.
2 Oakleigh Town Centre | 69 F7
The Oakleigh Town Centre features
some of Oakleigh’s most popular and
well recognised landmarks, including
the bustling Eaton Mall, Warrawee Park
(featuring sportsground, playspace,
walking paths and toilets), Oakleigh Station
and Oakleigh Library.
How to get there?
Cycle access along Atkinson Street from
Scotchmans Creek Trail via a combination
of on-road bike lanes and informal
bike routes. The Station Trail along the
Dandenong Rail Line will take you directly
to Oakleigh Station.
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WALKING AND CYCLING GUIDE
CYCLING TRACKS
WALKINGPATHS
USEFUL CYCLING TIPS
» Always wear an approved helmet
when riding. It is illegal to ride
without one and research proves that
a helmet will reduce the risk of head
injury
» Always remain visible and use the
appropriate signals. It is worth
regularly checking that your front
and back lights are working
» Adjust your bike to the appropriate
saddle height and leg length. Consult
your local bike shop if in doubt
» Keep to the left at all times and
be aware of other users on shared
pathways.
BENEFITS OF CYCLING
Cycling is a great form of aerobic exercise,
giving your heart, blood vessels and lungs
a workout. Other health benefits of cycling
include:
» Increased energy levels
» Increased muscle tone, strength and
flexibility
» Increased joint mobility
» Decreased body fat
» Reduction in stress, anxiety and
depression.
LIBRARIES
There are six public libraries in the
City of Monash that offer a range of
friendly services, events and programs.
CLAYTON LIBRARY
Cooke Street (west side), Clayton
Ph: 9541 3120
GLEN WAVERLEY LIBRARY
112 Kingsway, Glen Waverley
Ph: 9560 1655
OAKLEIGH LIBRARY
148 Drummond Street, Oakleigh
Ph: 9563 4138
MOUNT WAVERLEY LIBRARY
41 Miller Crescent, Mount Waverley
Ph: 9807 5022
MULGRAVE NEIGHBOURHOOD LIBRARY
36-42 Mackie Road, Mulgrave
WHEELERS HILL LIBRARY
860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill
Ph: 9561 6211
79 C3
71 C3
69 F7
70 E1
80 B2
71 J10
The City of Monash has two public
golf courses - Glen Waverley Golf
Course and Oakleigh Golf Course.
Both courses are open daily from
dawn to dusk.
Glen Waverley Golf Course
Jells Road, Glen Waverley
Ph: 9560 7806
This 18 hole public course includes fully
equipped pro-shop, coaching services,
warm-up nets, practice green, practice
fairway and landscaped gardens and
surrounds.
Oakleigh Golf Course
Park Road, Oakleigh
Ph: 9568 3307
This course is nestled amongst the heritage
area of Oakleigh and borders Scotchmans
Creek. This discreet 9 hole course also
includes fully equipped pro-shop, coaching
services, practice green and landscaped
surrounds.
The City of Monash is currently
home to 125 parks and reserves,
over 120 sports clubs and 131
playgrounds and playspaces. For
information relating to sport and
recreation programs, facilities
and opportunities in the City of
Monash, please visit
www.activemonash.vic.gov.au
or call 9518 3527.
Information contained in this Walking and Cycling
Map and Resource is current as at June 2014.
BICYCLE NETWORK VICTORIA
www.bicyclenetwork.com.au
Ph: 8376 8888
HEART FOUNDATION
www.heartfoundation.org.au
Ph: 1300 36 27 87
Oakleigh Recreation Centre
Park Road, Oakleigh
Ph: 8567 0333
Indoor stadium, health club, outdoor
50m pool, dive pool, personal training,
massage and Healthlink Cafe. Oakleigh
golf Course is just next door.
14Clayton Community Centre
Cooke Street, Clayton
Ph: 9541 3100
Health club, swim school, 25m pool,
birthday parties and Healthlink Cafe.
Other features include Clayton Theatrette,
Clayton Library and MonashLink.
13Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre
626 Waverley Road, Glen Waverley
Ph: 9265 4888
Health club, swim school, heated indoor
and outdoor pools, wave pool, personal
training, childcare, birthday parties and
Healthlink Cafe.
12
Dandenong Creek Trail
This is a 44km path that meanders
through a range of suburban areas that
are richly resourced with a wide variety
of parklands.
Waverley Rail Trail
This trail consists of on and off road
tracks, running along the Glen Waverley
railway line.
Scotchmans Creek Trail
This is an 11km path that splits the
municipality into northern and southern
sections. It begins at Warrigal Road and
intersects with the Dandenong Creek
path at the picturesque Jells Park.
For more information on these bike paths,
please call 9518 3527 or visit
www.monash.vic.gov.au/recreation/bike.htm
Gardiners Creek Trail
This off-road cycling route passes through
the Gardiners Creek Wetlands linking the
Blackburn Lakes to the Main Yarra Trail.
Station Trail
This off-road trail runs along the railway line
from Hughesdale Station to Centre Road
past Oakleigh, Huntingdale and Clayton
Stations. The trail also passes the popular
shopping precincts of Oakleigh, Clayton and
Huntingdale.
4
5
6
7
8
SAFE CYCLING ON THE ROAD
» Maintain a safe distance between
yourself and any traffic hazards
» Depending on lane width and traffic
speed, keep left or take the lane
» Do not hug the gutter
» Be aware of a driver’s blind spots to
the side and next to their back doors.
CYCLING AT ROUNDABOUTS
» When approaching the roundabout,
move into the middle of the lane
» Give way to cars already in the
roundabout
» Hand signal to cars so they can be
aware of your intended directions
» Be mindful of cars going straight from
behind or beside you.
BENEFITS OF WALKING
The new physical activity guidelines
suggest everyone should aim for at least
60 minutes of physical activity per day,
double the previous recommendation.
Walking is a pleasant and habitual way of
ensuring that we meet these guidelines.
Walking benefits:
» Low cost and minimal equipment
» Can be performed at any time of day
and at your own pace
» A great way of connecting socially
» Can increase cardiovascular fitness,
strengthen bones, reduce excess
body fat, and boost muscle power and
endurance. It can reduce your risk of
developing conditions such as heart
disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis
and some cancers.
USEFUL WALKING TIPS
» New walkers are advised to consult
their doctor should they have any
health concerns prior to embarking on
a new walking program
» Wear loose comfortable clothing
that is lightweight and offers sun
protection. Light coloured clothing is
recommended, and at night a reflective
aid can be useful
» Drink plenty of water before, during and
after long walks, especially on hot days
or when you feel dehydrated
» Walking with someone is not only safer
than walking on your own, but is also
more enjoyable! Encourage family,
friends or neighbours to join you.
Glen Waverley Historical Walk
Start and finish at the Glen Waverley
Railway Station. Walk past the Glen
Waverley Library, the Lone Pine War
Memorial and Central Reserve.
Gardiners Creek Trail
This walk can commence from either
of two points. It can be entered from
Holmesglen Railway Station or from
Vannam Drive. The Holmesglen option
adds 1.5km to the walk. Parking is
available in Vannam Drive. The walk ends
up at Gardiners Creek Reserve.
3.2km
2km
90 minFrom Holmesglen Station
From Vannam Drive 45 min
4km 60 min
7
9
Valley Reserve Path
Enter at Wills Avenue, Mount Waverley
and choose between the short or the
extended walk. It will take you through
a lovely waterhole, footbridge and large
natural wetland area.
Scotchmans Creek Trail
Begin on the sealed pathway (entrance to
the footbridge) on the corner of Midlothian
Street and Prior Road, finishing at Forster
Road. Walk by Caloola Reserve and
Scotchmans Run Reserve. Melway 69 F3
1km
1.5km
5.5km
30 minShort Walk
Extended Walk 45 min
90 - 120 min
2
4
Damper Creek Path
Start and finish at Park Street, Mount
Waverley. Entry is at the adventure
play space. The walk will take you past
a large weeping willow, wetlands and
footbridges.
Oakleigh Historical Walk
Start and finish at Oakleigh Railway
Station. In between, walk through
Warrawee Park and Caloola Reserve.
For more information on these walking
trails, please call 9518 3527 or visit
www.monash.vic.gov.au/recreation/walking.htm
2km
3.5km
30 min
90 - 120 min
11
10
CYCLISTS must give way to all pedestrians
on shared paths, including people using
wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Cyclists must keep to the left of shared paths
unless it is impractical to do so.
All cyclists are required to have a bell on their
bicycle. This is to be used as a warning device
when overtaking.
WHEN WALKING with headphones in, make
sure you can still hear others, as cyclists may
use a bell or their voice when overtaking.
If walking a dog, keep them to the left of you
so they don’t obstruct other path users.
SHARED PATHWAYS
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
For Monash residents seeking more
information about sustainable transport
options, visit the Public Transport
Victoria journey planner at:
www.ptv.vic.gov.au/journey
Additionally, download the free app to
help you plan your journey wherever you
are in Victoria. Whether you use public
transport everyday or only occasionally,
there is an application to suit your
information needs.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING
For information related to sustainable
living in Monash, please visit:
www.monash.vic.gov.au/environment
MONASH CITY
COUNCIL owns
and operates three
industry leading
aquatic and recreation
facilities. Each facility
has something to
appeal for all ages
and abilities, including
fitness classes, learn-
to-swim classes and
court sports.
monash bulletin page 3
Message from Mayor Geoff Lake
Within weeks we had put in place a plan to address each of these areas and respond proactively to this important feedback from our community. A key part of this response is that Council is now actively seeking out your feedback. Rather than waiting for residents to contact us about problems or suggestions, Council is now coming to you.
We are well into a program of visits to local shopping precincts and other activity areas throughout Monash to talk to residents about how we can serve you better. These visits are attended by councillors and a range of council staff – from the CEO (who has attended every one) to our senior managers and frontline customer service staff. Please see the list of upcoming visits elsewhere in this Bulletin.
Some of the things people have been telling us are that they want Council to focus on the core things which local government is responsible for – things like making sure our neighbourhoods look good, that footpaths, drains and roads are well maintained and our local parks are a higher priority.
We’ve also had a lot of feedback about the significant financial impact of paying Council rates. Even though
Monash has the lowest average rates in the state, we know this still doesn’t make our rates easy to afford – particularly for low income households and pensioners.
We hear you. That is why we will remain firmly focused on improving how we do things, being more efficient and being prepared to make tough decisions to ensure that the money you pay each year in rates is spent as effectively as possible.
As a start, Council has boosted our spending on local infrastructure by more than 10% in this year’s budget while reducing overheads and staffing costs.
Please contact me directly using the details below if you would like to pass on any ideas or views on what we can do to serve you better.
In June, Monash Council again recorded a customer satisfaction result well above the state average in the annual Victorian local government community survey. However, we were disappointed with a drop in our performance ratings for communication, consultation and advocacy.
www.geofflake.com.au
[email protected] 0411 645 281
@geofflake
Geoff with some of Monash’s Age Friendly Ambassadors (back row) and prize winners in a recent survey competition
Yes to smoke-free diningCouncil welcomes the Victorian Government’s announcement that it intends to introduce a statewide ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas.
The smoking ban will protect children and other people from exposure to second-hand smoke. The ban is supported by 75% of the Monash community, according to a survey we undertook in 2010. When our Mayor Geoff Lake was on the TV news and radio in April 2014 calling for the ban, the majority of residents who contacted us by email or phone strongly supported the ban.
On behalf of our residents, Council has been campaigning for the ban for many years, including writing to the Government in late 2012 to ask them to make outdoor dining areas smoke-
free. Several residents have contacted Council over the years to say they would be more likely to take their families to places like Oakleigh’s Eaton Mall (pictured) if there was a ban on smoking in its outdoor dining areas.
The Government has not stated when the ban will be introduced. Before the Government’s announcement in early August, Victoria was the only state in Australia where a ban on smoking in alfresco dining areas hadn’t been introduced or announced.
The Government is also proposing to ban smoking around the entrances to
childcare centres, schools, preschools, indoor play areas, public hospitals, registered community health centres and some government buildings.
For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/smoke-free-environments or call 9518 3555.
We’re listeningCouncil wants to make sure we are providing our residents with the services and support you need.
We are visiting local neighbourhoods on weekends, and during the week, to make it easier for you to raise any local issues with us. Please come along to any of these Council “listening posts” and tell us how we can serve you better.
For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay or call 9518 3678.
Advocating for our communityOn behalf of Clayton residents, Council is lobbying the Victorian Government to ensure the redeveloped Clayton train station becomes a well-connected and attractive transport hub.
The Government has released preliminary designs for the redevelopment of Clayton station and will accept Council and community feedback on these designs until 31 August.
Council is thrilled with the Government’s plan to put the train line and station below Clayton Road. Council has been pushing for the removal of the level crossing for many years, as it is a traffic nightmare for local residents and delays ambulances on their way to the nearby Monash Medical Centre.
While Council is a strong supporter of removing the level crossing, we are concerned that the Government’s preliminary plans don’t provide for easy, effortless connections between the railway station and buses, or provide for bikes. We would also like to see safe walkways created that allow pedestrians to cross under the road, rather than being forced to cross busy Clayton Road. As a focal point for the Clayton area, the station building should be of an excellent design standard.
Council has made a submission to the Victorian Government, advocating for the best outcome possible for the Clayton community. In its submission, Council has included comments from Clayton residents who expressed their views at a special meeting of Council in mid-July.
If you would like to tell the Victorian Government your views on this project, please ring 8392 6655 or fill in an online survey at www.transport.vic.gov.au/projects/cranbourne-pakenham-rail-corridor-project For more info on Council’s submission, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/clayton-deserves-better or ring 9518 3597.
Anzac tributeWe’re seeking community ideas for a suitable permanent structure to commemorate the Anzac centenary.
Over the next four years, Australia will commemorate the Anzac centenary, marking 100 years since our nation’s involvement in the First World War. The Anzac centenary is a milestone of special significance to all Australians, as the First World War helped define us as a people and as a nation.
Council has allocated $50,000 in its budget for the creation of a permanent physical structure in a prominent public space to commemorate the ANZAC centenary. We would like ideas from our community about what this structure could be. Every idea that is submitted will be considered by a committee which will include local Returned Services League (RSL) members and will be chaired by the Mayor. The committee will make a recommendation to Council about which idea (or ideas) should be funded.
All ideas must be submitted by Tuesday 30 September. Please send your idea (marked Anzac centenary project) via email to [email protected] or via mail to Monash Council, PO Box 1, Glen Waverley 3150. For more info, contact Nick Andrianis, Coordinator – Civic and Governance, on 9518 3696.
Warrawee Park, Oakleigh* Saturday 23 August, 10.30am-12.30pm
Hamilton Place, Mount WaverleyFriday 5 September, 10.30am-12.30pm
Clayton Community Centre, Cooke Street* Saturday 13 September, 10.30am-12.30pm
Southern Reserve, Mulgrave* Saturday 20 September, 10.30am-12.30pm
*FREE community BBQs will be provided at these events.
monash bulletin page 5
How Do I...?...request meals on wheels?
If you’re aged 65 years or older, have a disability or are a carer, you may be eligible to receive healthy meals delivered to your home via Council’s Meals on Wheels service. Volunteers helped us deliver 15,800 meals to Monash residents during the April-June 2014 quarter.
A side benefit of this service is that our volunteers are able to check on your welfare when they deliver your meal and arrange assistance if you require it. A small fee applies for our Meals on Wheels service, but some of the costs are subsidised by Council and the Victorian and Australian governments. Our staff are happy to talk through the eligibility requirements with residents and/or their family members.
For more info, contact our Home and Community Care team on 9518 3553 or at [email protected]
...register for a translated version of this newsletter?Each month, Council has this newsletter translated into three of the most commonly used non-English languages in Monash: Chinese, Greek and Italian.
If you or someone you know would like to receive this newsletter in one of the three translated languages, please register by calling 9518 3619 or emailing [email protected]
Better parking optionsThe parking restrictions in Glen Waverley’s Euneva East multi-deck car park have been changed to allow people to park for longer periods.
People can now park in the two upper levels of the car park for five hours at a time, compared with three hours previously. On the lower levels, people can now park for three hours, compared with two hours previously.
These time limits apply during the hours of 8am-6pm Monday-Saturday. Vehicles can enter the car park between 6am-11pm on any day, so there are times when people can park in the car park without any time
restrictions. People are able to enter the car park at any time to retrieve their car, so you can park in the car park past 11pm at night.
Council has changed the time limits in response to feedback from residents who have sought longer term parking in the area. For example, people who visit the cinemas and wish to have a meal before or after a movie will benefit from having more five hour car parks in the area. The expanded
parking times will apply for a 12 month trial period.
It is FREE to park in the Euneva East car park, which is on the corner of Euneva Avenue and O’Sullivan Road.
For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/euneva.carpark or contact James Paterson, Manager-Engineering, on 9518 3420 or at [email protected]
Family Day CareIn coming months, Council will be talking to families and educators involved in our Family Day Care service about options for the program’s future.This comes after the Australian Government announced, as part of its budget, that it would be withdrawing operational subsidies for family day care from 1 July 2015. Council currently receives an operational subsidy from the Government of $255,000 per year.
Given the funding withdrawal, Council will now review the service to determine a sustainable operating model for the future. As part of this review, Council will consult with the families of the 406 children who are enrolled in the service, the 54
contracted educators who provide the service, and the Council staff who coordinate the program. Council will consider any issues or priorities raised in these consultations before deciding upon a future model for the program.
In the meantime, Council has written to local Members of Parliament to ask them to advocate for the continuation of the operational subsidy.
For more info, contact Julie Salomon, Director – Community Development and Services, on 9518 3510 or at [email protected]
Your CouncillorsGlen Waverley Ward
Mulgrave Ward
Mount Waverley Ward
Oakleigh Ward
Centre Road
Poa
th R
oad
Police Rd
Waverley Road
War
riga
l Roa
d
Princes Hwy
Monash Freeway
Spri
ngva
le R
oad
North RoadWellington Road
Blac
kbur
n R
oad Highbury Road
Glen Waverley Ward
Mount Waverley Ward
OakleighWard
MulgraveWard
Cr Geoff LakeMayor9518 3509 or0411 645 [email protected]
Cr Katrina Nolan0406 274 126Katrina.Nolan@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Brian Little0407 878 033Brian.Little@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Jieh-Yung Lo 0400 235 363Jieh-Yung.Lo@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Rebecca Paterson 0437 959 [email protected]
Cr Robert Davies0416 000 777Robert.Davies@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Micaela Drieberg0403 034 307Micaela.Drieberg@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Paul Klisaris9518 3555Paul.Klisaris@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Stephen DimopoulosDeputy Mayor9579 3118Stephen.Dimopoulos@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Bill Pontikis0418 355 166Bill.Pontikis@ monash.vic.gov.au
Cr Theo Zographos9530 9793 or0430 316 911Theo.Zographos@ monash.vic.gov.au
PLEASE ADDRESS ALLCORRESPONDENCE TOPO Box 1,Glen Waverley 3150Councillors’ faxes:9518 3444
Councillor News – Cr Robert DaviesWe have had a full agenda these last few months on Monash Council with resolution of Council’s 2014/15 budget a significant area for debate. I voted against the budget because I thought the rate rise was unnecessarily high at 6%, and I also didn’t like the increase in debt that is planned.
A hot issue in Mulgrave has been the Waverley Park powerlines dispute. In April, the State Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, confirmed that Mirvac would have to do what they are already contractually obligated to do, and put the powerlines underground. The Waverley Park Residents Action Group (WPRAG) was pleased with this outcome, however, Mirvac is appealing the issue with VCAT so the dispute is not over yet. I fully support residents and WPRAG in their goal to get the powerlines underground and bring the matter to conclusion. It has gone on long enough.
We also saw the sale of the former Brandon Park Secondary School site for $47.5m. I worked extensively with the Brandon Park Residents Group to ensure locals had a strong voice in the outcome achieved. Most school sites were sold with only 5% open space while the State
Government reserved 18.5% for Brandon Park. The State also put many development restrictions in place around height, setbacks, pedestrian links, and many other areas. The site was purchased by a retirement village operator so we anticipate this will likely be developed accordingly. A quality development on this site will be great for the Brandon Park area, providing employment and new opportunities for small business.
In April, Council passed new guidelines in relation to Councillors contesting State elections. Among other objectives, these guidelines are meant to ensure Councillors do not make improper use of their position to gain an advantage in a State or Federal campaign. As I am the Liberal Party Candidate for the state seat of Mulgrave, I will have to take a Leave of Absence from Council responsibilities during the formal election period in and around November this year.
All the best, Cr Robert Davies
Preventing diseaseChildren can receive FREE vaccinations at local immunisation sessions run by Council’s nurses.
FREE vaccinations are available for babies, toddlers, pre-school and school-aged children who have an Australian Medicare card (or are eligible for one). The aim is to prevent diseases such as poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough. Eligible adults are also able to access some FREE vaccines. To suit busy families, immunisation sessions are run at a range of times and venues. Bookings are required for evening sessions but not for morning sessions.
Bookings for evening sessions can now be requested online. To book or for more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/immunisation Enquiries: 9518 3534 or email [email protected]
September Session TimesMon 1, 5.30pm-7pm(Bookings required)
Glen Waverley Community Centre
Wed 3, 10am-11.30am Mount Waverley Community Centre
Thurs 4, 10am-11.30amTue 16, 10am-11.30am
Clayton Community Centre
Mon 8, 10am-11.30amMon 15, 6pm-7.30pm(Bookings required)
Ashwood Hall
Tue 9, 6pm-7.30pm (Bookings required)Fri 26, 10am-11.30am
Oakleigh Seminar and Training Centre
Wed 10, 10am-11.30am Brandon Park Community Centre
Fri 19, 10am-11.30am Mulgrave Community Centre
Tue 23, 10am-11.30am Monash Civic Centre, Glen Waverley
Reducing gambling harmCouncil will soon begin a program to reduce the risk of Clayton residents experiencing harmful gambling.
We have received a $205,000 grant from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation to run the Clayton CANVAS program.
The program will build the resilience of Clayton residents to gambling and encourage them to consider other social and recreational activities away from gambling.
It will reach out to people such as young male footballers and cricketers, senior residents (particularly those who are socially isolated), international students, residents experiencing social and financial difficulties, and young people exposed to online gambling.
Clayton was chosen as the location for this program because it is the hot spot for gambling harm in Monash. The suburb has a high density of poker machines, with $5 million spent in one Clayton gambling venue alone in the 2012/2013 financial year.
For more info on the CANVAS program, contact Emily Halliburton, Health Promotion Officer, on 9518 3574 or at [email protected]
Sports boostIn September, we will begin constructing the first Council-funded synthetic sporting pitch in Monash.
Council is constructing the soccer pitch at Jack Edwards Reserve in Oakleigh, to increase sporting opportunities for local children. Synthetic surfaces can withstand more use than natural surfaces so this means the new surface will be able to be played on more regularly than the previous surface.
The ground’s home teams - junior club Chisholm United FC and National Premier Leagues Victoria club Oakleigh Cannons FC - will be regular users of the synthetic pitch. It will also be available for bookings by school groups and others. Construction of the pitch is expected to be completed by next February.
For more info, contact Council’s Recreation team on 9518 3559 or at [email protected]
WHAT’S ONCommunity tree planting & BBQSunday 31 August, 9am-12noon
Come along to Brandon Park Reserve to help plant 800+ plants and to enjoy a FREE community BBQ. We’ll also be seeking ideas on what people would like to see included in the reserve’s playground, which is due for an upgrade. Gardening tools will be provided but please bring along some gloves. Prior to the planting day, Council has made other improvements to the reserve including removing rubbish, pruning trees and re-instating garden beds. There is no need to RSVP for this event; please just turn up on the day.
For more info, ring 9518 3527 or email [email protected]
...at Monash Gallery of ArtBowness Photography Prize exhibitionRuns from 4 September – 12 October
You’ll be able to view images by 48 of Australia’s best photographers in this exhibition of the finalists of the $25,000 William and Winifred Bowness Photography Prize. The winner of the annual prize will be announced on 4 September.
The finalist images can be viewed at www.mga.org.au/bowness-prize/gallery or see them up close at the MGA (860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill) from 4 September. Enquiries: 8544 0500.
Mend it workshopSaturday 6 September, 10am-2pm
Do you have a pile of clothes waiting to be mended? Maybe you need to patch some jeans or replace buttons on a shirt? Bring your garments to our workshop, where we will have someone to guide you and all the materials you need to mend or alter your garments. This FREE workshop is being held at Mulgrave Neighbourhood House (36-42 Mackie Rd).
Bookings are essential and can be made on 9518 3049 or at environmentalmanagement@ monash.vic.gov.au
Big band concertSunday 14 September, 2pm-4pm
Each year, Council holds FREE music concerts to brighten up the colder months. The Monash Concert Band will entertain the crowd at this last event of the 2014 Monash Winter Concert series. They will perform Broadway favorites which people can sing along to. This concert is being held at the Mount Waverley Community Centre (47 Miller Crescent). Bookings are essential and open on Monday 1 September.
Bookings: 9518 3636 or email [email protected] For more info, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/events
Darren SYLVESTERWhen will I learn 2014courtesy of the artist
…at Monash librariesAuthor’s talk – Maggie MackellarWednesday 17 September, 12.30pm-2pm
Enjoy a talk by Maggie Mackellar, author of the deeply moving and thought-provoking memoir “When it rains”, which was short-listed for The Age Book of the Year Award (Non Fiction) in 2011. In her second memoir “How to get there”, she writes about her move to Tasmania, for love, and the struggles and joys of settling there. This author’s talk is being held at the Monash Gallery of Art (860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill). The event costs $15 per person and
includes a light lunch with a menu by Big Kitchen Events with Gary Mehigan (the new operators of the MGA cafe).
Bookings are essential and can be made on 9561 6211 or at [email protected]