New CBD Public Toilet
Transcription
New CBD Public Toilet
Around Ballarat Gardens Statue Pavilion Better public toilets The Statue Pavilion at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens has received a fresh coat of paint. The public toilets located between the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens recently received an internal upgrade by the City of Ballarat Facility Management team. New signage at Buninyong Funded by the City of Ballarat Engaging Communities Program, the new way-finding signage was delivered in partnership with the Buninyong and District Community Association. Buninyong Streetscape Upgrade The $750,000 streetscape upgrade project in Buninyong will be completed by Summer. Funded by the City of Ballarat and the State Government the project will deliver: • Community activity space outside the Buninyong Town Hall in Learmonth Street • Improvements to parking and accessibility along both sides of Warrenheip Street and Learmonth Street • Improved pedestrian safety and revitalisation of the retail precinct along both sides of Learmonth Street The project was designed in consultation with the Buninyong community and supported by the Buninyong Community Reference Team. To stay-up-to-date with projects in Buninyong, follow the Making Buninyong facebook page. CBD Community Safety Project The Victorian Government will deliver $230,000 to improve community safety and confidence at the Little Bridge Street precinct in Ballarat. The City of Ballarat has also committed $50,000 to the project. The Little Bridge Street Pocket Park Infrastructure Improvements project will revitalise Little Bridge Street between the shopping precinct and the bus interchange. Proposed improvements include a new public toilet, improved lighting, public art, landscaping and two new CCTV cameras. Rustic fountain restored at Lake Wendouree The rustic fountain in the south-east corner of Lake Wendouree has been restored to its former glory. The fountain, first constructed in 1879 to commemorate the location of Ballarat’s first water supply, was officially re-opened in October. As part of the restoration, the 120-year-old spray head was removed for cleaning and repairs, sections of the rockwork were rebuilt, and power was reconnected to operate the pump. Thanks to Damascus College students who assisted in landscaping works around the precinct as part of the school’s 10-year contribution to Lake Wendouree. 2 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Visit the Library in Cardigan The City of Ballarat's pop-up library service now visits Cardigan Village Community Centre, 10am to 12pm, every second Tuesday, with story time at 10:30am. Kindergarten and Community Facilities Works to upgrade the Fidelity Club Kindergarten and Municipal Brass Band Hall, Ripon Street, Ballarat Central, will deliver: • An expanded hall that divides into two separate rooms • Upgraded kitchen and accessible toilet • Children's toilet facilities • Outside play area City Oval Grandstand • New fencing The City Oval grandstand fire escape stairs were rebuilt by the City of Ballarat facilities team. The redevelopment will enable the Fidelity Club Kindergarten to meet demand for three and four-year-old kindergarten and create a facility that can be used by other community groups. The project has been funded by the Department of Education and Training Minor Infrastructure, City of Ballarat, ECKA (Kindergarten Cluster Manager), Fidelity Club Kindergarten Committee and Ladies Fidelity Club. Upgraded for Summer The Edward VII picnic shelter at Lake Wendouree has been upgraded. The rotunda has a new ceiling, a new BBQ and a new concrete floor, as well as a fresh coat of paint. Did you know? This year, the City of Ballarat will maintain 685 kilometres of footpaths. That’s 7 kilometres more than last year, due to the city’s growth. Around Ballarat Heritage Street Lights Victoria Park Refurbished heritage street lights have been installed in Sturt Street and Armstrong Street, outside the Ballarat Town Hall. Relocated from Bakery Hill, the street lights complement the existing street lighting and heritage facade of the Town Hall. The Victoria Park carpark, just off Russell Street, has been upgraded. Works were delivered by the City of Ballarat Infrastructure Delivery team. Good news for walkers & runners! The Steve Moneghetti Track between Windmill Drive and Pipers Restaurant has been upgraded. The path along this section has been widened by one metre and re-sheeted, the edging was lifted in low spots to improve drainage, and the grass has been re-seeded along the edge the path. Restored gun on show A restored original German Howitzer ‘short gun’ sFHO2 was unveiled at Lake Wendouree in August. Allied Forces captured Gun Number 68 during the Battle of Amiens in France in 1918. The gun is one of a pair given to Ballarat in 1920 as part of a national program to distribute captured artillery to towns around Australia. The pair of guns was located at the Ballarat Arch of Victory for many years. CONGRATULATIONS! The Rebel Elders project recently won the Oral History Victoria Community Innovation Award 2015. The performance featured as part of the 2014 Ballarat Seniors Festival. Sports & Recreation Tennis shelter The tennis shelter at Hollioake Park has been upgraded. Open for play! In September, the Ballarat Lawn Tennis Club’s new courts and shared clubrooms at Prince of Wales Park were officially opened. The tennis club funded the courts and contributed $70,000 to the clubrooms' construction. The City of Ballarat lent in-kind support to the courts and contributed to the landscaping cost via Community Impact Grants. Prince of Wales Park New home The Visitor Information Centre (VIC) and Ballarat Regional Tourism staff relocated to their new home at the Ballarat Town Hall in August. Caravan parking is available at the rear of the Town Hall. Russell Square Reserve New footpaths • • • • Eyre Street, Buninyong, from Warrenheip Street to Union Street. Cooke Street, Sebastopol. The new footpath starts at Redan Creek on the north side of Cooke Street to the existing footpath in Skipton Street. York Street, Golden Point, from Young Street, along the north side of York Street past Llanberris Reserve to existing footpath near Main Road. Gillies Street, in front of the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre. The hockey practice green at Prince of Wales Park is now complete. The warm up area will be used by away teams during the hockey season. The project was delivered and fully funded by the City of Ballarat. Fostering Excellence The City of Ballarat Economic Development Unit hosted a group of Year 10 Ballarat Grammar School students as part of the 2015 Mindshop Excellence Program. Mindshop Excellence is a work experience program which fast tracks the development of young minds through fostering skills such as team work and self-confidence. The new Russell Square Reserve change room and netball court was officially opened by Ballarat Mayor Cr John Philips and Cr Samantha McIntosh in August The project included: • New $240,000 netball court – fully funded by the City of Ballarat • New $405,000 female change rooms – jointly funded by the City of Ballarat ($305,000) and Sport and Recreation Victoria ($100,000) Works included a new concrete-based acrylic court, new shelter, new lights, perimeter fencing, four new team change rooms, referee change rooms, store room and public access disabled toilet. The Chinese Open Monument The Chinese Open Monument was officially launched in Ballarat in September. The major public artwork of national, historic and cultural significance recognises the contribution of the Chinese population to Ballarat and the surrounding region from 1850 onwards. Internationally-acclaimed Hong Kong born, Australian artist John Young and Times Two Architects have delivered the Open Monument. The Monument, located at Len T Fraser Reserve, Main Road, was supported by the City of Ballarat and commissioned by Sovereign Hill. www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 3 Natural Ballarat Trees, trees and more trees A Natural Career The City of Ballarat 2015 tree planting program has been a busy one! More than 1600 trees have been planted at sites across the city. Pioneer Park The City of Ballarat Parks & Gardens team completed a landscaping project at Pioneer Park, Wendouree. New Garden Bed The corner of Skipton Street and South Street has a fresh look with a new garden bed that has been planted out with Cordylines, Hebes, Nandina and Lavender. Love Lake birdlife? Together with the team at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, the City of Ballarat has released a guide to the most common birds of Lake Wendouree. View it at the City website: www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Creek Slashing Works Students from Ballarat High School, Mount Clear Secondary College and Federation College interested in pursuing a career in horticulture recently participated in a two-day Work Inspiration program at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, co-hosted by the City of Ballarat and Central Highlands LLEN. New trees line Link Road More than 4,600 new trees and groundcovers will be planted along the northern section of the Ballarat Link Road corridor in the coming months. The landscaping project is a key outcome of the Ballarat Strategy and is a partnership project of the City of Ballarat and VicRoads, building on the avenue tree-planting works along Dyson Drive. Greening Ballarat The City of Ballarat’s annual Creek Slashing Program included works along the Yarrowee River, Canadian Creek, Specimen Vale, Pennyweight Gully and Warrenheip Gully. In September, the City of Ballarat and State Government announced joint funding of $300,000 for the Greening Ballarat through Local Water Management project. Looking good! Landscaping works at the front entrance of the Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre are now complete. Lake Wendouree Tree Replacement A tree replacement program at Lake Wendouree is underway. The Lake Wendouree precinct is home to around 1,300 trees. Approximately 58 of these trees are between 50 and more than 100 years old and are nearing the end of their life. Over the coming years, these trees will be replaced with three trees for every one removed. In the first year of the program, 28 trees will be removed and replaced with new trees. The trees will be replaced with species including Kauri Pine, Bhutan Cypress, Aleppo Pine, Western Yellow Pine, Monterey Pine, Black Pine, Swamp Cypress, Pin Oak and English Oak just to name a few. Money for our community Money delivered by the City of Ballarat Community Impact Grants (CIG) have helped many not-for-profit groups run fantastic local community events and develop great projects for the people of Ballarat Ballarat Lawn Tennis Club & Hockey Ballarat Shared Clubhouse Furniture $ 4,027 Ballarat Indian Association Diwali - Festival of Lights 2015 $4,544 Midlands & District Amateur Swimming Association 2015 Victorian Country Short Course Championships $5,434 Eureka Drilldance Club Eureka Drilldance Club - Dressed in Style $3,860 Anglicare Victoria More Sound for the Homeless $1,846 Ballarat Central Uniting Church Homework Club Ballarat Central Uniting Church Homework Club $600 Coronet City Cricket Club Cricket 4 a Cause - Super 7's $4,909 Southern Cross Kids Camps Ballarat Kids for Boundless Futures Ballarat Permaculture Guild Future of Local Food Conference $925 $8,000 Soroptomists International Ballarat Inc Creating a Seasonal Garden $829 Child and Family Services Stars on the Lake $3,087 AJC Executive Taskforce Inc 70th Australian Jazz Convention BLOC Music Theatre Camp Rock $8,000 $3,850 Ballarat Goldfields Car Club Automated External Defibrillator University of the Third Age Integrating Seniors & Community Partners $3,488 $1,200 Ballarat Happy Wanderers Ballarat Happy Wanderers Coach Trips $1,300 Sebastopol Men's Shed Sebastopol Men's Shed Training & Resource Project $1,296 Ballarat Woodworkers Guild Ballarat Wood & Craft Show $3,750 Ballarat Little Athletics Improvements to High Jump & Hurdle Safety $4,180 Delacombe Chairs Forum Community Events $5,600 Ballarat Chess Club Writing & Production of a History Book - 50 years of the Ballarat Begonia Chess Tournament $2,500 Friends of Buninyong Botanical Gardens Community Growing Together Buninyong RSL New Storage Facility $6,439 Gold Museum Festival of Spokes $1,975 Ballarat Interfaith Network Tree of Life - One Voice $916 Delacombe Companion Club Community Christmas Celebration $880 SEAM WARM - A community textile art project $10,000 Emily & Margies Underwater Wonderland Underwater Wonderland Art Exhibition $4,460 BREAZE Farmers Market Engagement $5,333 Ballarat Community Health Ballarat Food Security Forum $1,000 4 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Want to know more? Applications for the City of Ballarat Community Impact Grants are now open. Visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au $5,497 Did you know? Every year, the City of Ballarat inspects more than 5788 kilometres of road On the Road Road Shoulder Works Road shoulder works have been carried out at the intersection of Gladstone Street and Laurie Street, Mt Pleasant. Grass and built up silt from the drainage channel has been removed and replaced with crushed rock to improve road safety. Bell Street The reconstruction of Bell Street, from Sutton Street to Adair Streets, Redan is now complete. The project delivered full pavement reconstruction, new kerb and channel, and dedicated parking areas adjacent to Bray Raceway. Alfredton Roadworks are now underway at Cuthberts Road, Alfredton. The project includes road reconstruction of Cuthberts Road, from Lawrie Drive to Elaine Avenue, and a new entrance road into the Alfredton Recreation Reserve. Works are expected to be complete at the end of January, 2016. Miners Rest Maintenance works at the Miners Rest Road Bridge are complete inlcuding works on the base of the bridge and the re-sheeting of the road. Rural Roads Armstrong Street Works The City of Ballarat 2015/16 rural road re-sheeting program is underway and expected to be completed at the end of 2015. The City Road Maintenance team cleans all drains and extends culverts where necessary. Grading works are also underway ready for the dust suppressant program in the first week of December. The reconstruction of Armstrong Street South, from Sebastopol Street to South Street, is now complete. The project delivered full road pavement reconstruction, kerb and channel, concrete footpath and traffic management works. Streetscape and asphalt works were also completed on Armstrong Street South, from Sturt Street to Bath Lane. Ring Road Roadside Programs Invermay Bicycle Path Program The City’s annual roadside spraying program is now complete, and the roadside slashing program will now be rolled out this Summer. Cardigan Cuthberts Road in Cardigan is being re-sheeted, with works expected to be complete in mid-November. Works to install a guardrail at the intersection of Cootamundra and Slatey Creek Roads, Invermay are complete. The City’s Road Safety Signage crew installed width markets and guide posts at the culvert on Alkera Road, Invermay. Some minor maintenance on the road has also been undertaken, improving visibility and safety around the culvert. The City of Ballarat Road Safety team have upgraded the line-marking along Ring Road, improving safety for motorists. As part of the Bicycle Path Program, the City has constructed a new off-road asphalt path linking the Ring Road path to the Sturt Street Service Road, in front of the Ranger Barracks in Alfredton. The next project is to construct an off-road path from Waringa Drive to Waltham Drive, Mitchell Park, linking the Wendouree Industrial Estate to Wendouree. City of Ballarat Road Works The following construction projects are in the works: Project Location Doveton Street North, Invermay - Golfview Drive to Heinz Lane Little Bendigo Creek, Lofven Street, Nerrina Various locations in City of Ballarat Cuthberts Road, Alfredton - Elaine Avenue to Laurie Drive Bakery Hill roundabout, Victoria and Humffray Streets Lilac Court, Wendouree Acacia Street, Invermay - Swinglers Road to Alkera Road Intersection of Ripon and Dana Streets Sturt Street – Raglan Street to Lyons Street (north side) Wendouree Parade - Ripon Street to Pleasant Street Sharpes Road, Miners Rest - Raglan Street to east of Garlands Road Collins Street & Duncan Street - Hotham Street to Mill Street Vickers Street - Grant Street to Rowlands Street Learmonth Street - Warrenheip Street to Winter Street Description of Works Road reconstruction, kerb and channel works, and asphalt pavement works Concrete lining repairs to culvert Bituminous resurfacing of sealed road network Road reconstruction, kerb and channel works, and asphalt pavement resurfacing Asphalt resurfacing Road pavement reconstruction, and new kerb and channel works Road reconstruction, and kerb and channel construction Roundabout construction, kerb and channel works, and asphalt resurfacing works Footpath construction, Bluestone paving works, and kerb and channel repairs Road shoulder reconstruction and asphalt pavement resurfacing Road reconstruction and widening Road reconstruction, kerb and channel works Road reconstruction, stormwater drainage works and new kerb and channel works Service Road reconstruction, kerb and channel works, and asphalt pavement works Project Duration To December December December December to February January January to February January to February January to February January to February. January to February February February to March February to March February to March Residents and businesses directly affected by these projects will receive letters from the City of Ballarat with details of the location and impact of the works. Remember to approach works areas with caution and keep an eye out for speed restriction signs. Want more information? Call the City of Ballarat’s Customer Service Centre at 5320 5500 or visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 5 Building Ballarat Ballarat Major Events Precinct The project: Development of the Precinct as a vibrant events and sporting hub to host premier cultural, entertainment, recreation and sporting events. The commitment: In June 2015, the Victorian Government committed $31.5 million to the Ballarat Major Events Precinct. The $31.5 million includes: • $15 million for Eureka Stadium • $9 million for Ballarat Sports and Events Centre • $5 million for the Ballarat Showgrounds • $2.5 million towards C.E Brown Reserve The City of Ballarat has committed $5 million towards the Ballarat Sports and Events Centre. Status: The City of Ballarat has finalised the Ballarat Major Events Precinct Master Plan as part of the first stage of the project. The Master Plan provides an exciting and viable vision of a precinct that delivers a major events and regional capital city experience. Key stakeholders including sports user-groups, the Ballarat Agriculture and Pastoral Society, VicRoads and private landowners were extensively consulted about the Master Plan, with community consultation to take place in the future. The redevelopment of Eureka Stadium began in September, 2015 and is progressing well. Work involves realignment and upgrade of the stadium’s playing surface and an upgrade of the adjacent #2 oval to provide an alternative training venue and manage usage loads of the stadium’s playing surface. Completion date: Current works pave the way for further development of spectator facilities in 2016 and will allow AFL games to be staged in Western Victoria in 2017. Ballarat Link Road The project: A key transport priority of the City of Ballarat, the Ballarat Link Road will provide a direct link from the Western Highway to the Midland Highway and will deliver significant benefits along the city’s western growth corridor. The road will be a major north-south arterial road, which will service Ballarat West, including Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ), and the regional community. The commitment: The State Government has provided $38 million in funding, which includes $2.5 million to plan the entire 16-kilometre road corridor and $35.5 million to construct Stage One, between Remembrance Drive and Learmonth Road. Status: Construction of Stage 1A, the 1.7 kilometre section between Learmonth Road and the new access point at BWEZ, is progressing well. A completed section has been opened to traffic, and contractors are currently working on the road adjacent to the new Aiport Road intersection roundabout and final associated works. Completion date: Construction of Stage 1A is expected to be complete by the end of 2015. Stage 1C and 1D are completed, including 600 metres of road between Remembrance Drive and The Terrace, Lucas; and the upgrade of the Remembrance Drive and Dyson Drive intersection at Lucas. Future works: Construction of the remaining 2.5 kilometre southern section of Stage 1 between the newly-created access point into BWEZ and Remembrance Drive. There have been delays to the beginning of works due to culturally significant sites. The City of Ballarat is working with the Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation to identify sensitive sites and prepare a Cultural Heritage Plan. 6 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Did you know? Building Ballarat This year, the City of Ballarat will issue 1,000 planning applications with a total development value of approximately $190 million Ballarat West Employment Zone The project: The Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ) is the staged development of 438 hectares of land adjacent to the Ballarat Airport as a high-quality industrial estate for a range of manufacturing, agribusiness, construction, freight and logistics, and research and development uses. It will include a freight hub, large lots, access for high-productivity freight vehicles and top-quality infrastructure. The commitment: The State Government has committed $25 million, and the City of Ballarat will provide $5 million, to build Stage 1 of BWEZ. Status: Broadbent Grain signed the first contract of sale and became the first tenant of BWEZ. The company will build a $24 million export grain-handling facility on a 10.67 hectare site adjacent to the new Ballarat Link Road. Construction will begin in late 2015 and the facility is expected to be operational in 2016. More than 50 jobs will be created during construction and 45 people will be employed after the facility is completed. Broadbent Grain operates grain-handling facilities in the Western District of Victoria, Southern Queensland and Northern NSW. Future works: The BWEZ Stage 1 land release of up to 60.1 hectares in late 2014 received strong interest from the market and negotiations are continuing with other respondents. A Request for Tender for the Stage 1 Civil Works was released in August, 2015 to a short list of four contractors. Works will comprise the main entry, boulevard road and internal roads, and all services including power, gas, electricity, water, sewer, data and telecommunications. Construction is scheduled to begin in November, 2015. Ballarat’s Inclusive Play Space The project: Ballarat’s first Inclusive Play Space. Located at Victoria Park, it includes multiple play zones and accessible equipment designed for people of all abilities. Features are a double flying fox, multiple swings, slides, carousel and a year-round passive/imaginative water play precinct. The project includes new paths, shade shelters, BBQs, picnic tables, carparking and toilet facilities. The commitment: The $1.4 million Play Space is a partnership project of the City of Ballarat, State Government, businesses and the community. Central Highlands Water contributed significant funding to the water play precinct that includes a network of shallow streams and weirs. Project partners, the Touched by Olivia Foundation has championed community involvement with generous donations from Rotary Clubs, Bank of Melbourne, TGM, V/Line, RACV and local schools. Project status: Works on the first stage began in August, 2015. The toilet and changing places facility, and shade shelters, are complete. Water play construction is expected to be completed in November, with paths and park furniture to be finished in December. Works on the main play structure are scheduled to begin in December, with carparks underway in early 2016. Have Your Say Valuable feedback and opinion was shared by local residents on several City of Ballarat plans and strategies recently, including: The Victoria Park Master Plan: Following six months of development and consultation, the final Plan will be presented to Council in December, 2015. City of Ballarat Positive Ageing Framework 2015-2018: The Framework was adopted by Ballarat City Council in September. The plan aims to maximise the quality of life, participation and social recognition of seniors living in Ballarat. It also provides an action plan for Council, the community and other stakeholders. City of Ballarat Community Engagement Framework: The draft Community Engagement Framework outlines Council's commitment to engage its community to the best of its potential. The Framework aims to improve community engagement across the City of Ballarat, strengthening the planning, active participation and feedback components for each process. Miners Rest Local Flood Guide: City of Ballarat and Ballarat SES sought feedback on the Guide, outlining local flood risk information (including maps that show the areas vulnerable to flooding), historical information on past floods and information on flood warnings. City of Ballarat Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2015-2017: In August, Council adopted the Plan, which helps understand the obstacles that prevent people from being a full and inclusive member of the community, enabling actions to be developed and implemented that focus on reducing barriers to access. Emissions Management Action Plan: The Plan provides an outline of actions over the next five years to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in consultation with the Ballarat Strategy which established clear directions for Council’s approach to environmental sustainability and climate change adaption moving forward. Primary Schools Neighbourhood Survey: In August and September, more than 1300 Ballarat primary school students shared their feelings and ideas about safety and youth activities in their local neighbourhoods. Thanks to teachers and school administration staff for their involvement in this project. Community Road Safety Strategy: Submissions are invited to 30 November. Visit haveyoursay.ballarat.vic.gov.au Want to get involved? Share your feedback and comments at haveyoursay.ballarat.vic.gov.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 7 Building Ballarat Budget Priority Projects Ballarat City Council committed to deliver 11 new projects totalling $4.7 million investment, in the 2015/16 Budget. In April 2015, all residents were invited to have their say on a priority list of popular community projects. A total of 638 residents completed the survey, on paper and online at myTownHall. COMPLETE New CBD Public Toilet The project: Located in Alfred Deakin Place, the new facility includes one accessible toilet, three standard cubicles, lighting and CCTV. The re-instated Indigenous-themed artwork by artist Marley Smith is also in place, with flower boxes brightening the facility. Status: COMPLETED. The new toilet block was popular with the crowds of visitors to the Archibald Prize exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. IN THE WORKS Sebastopol Library The project: The future Sebastopol Library will be a vibrant and interesting place for the whole community, welcoming people of all ages and all backgrounds. It will be a local hub for a variety of exciting cultural, learning and recreational programs. Features of the new and improved Sebastopol Library: • Increased opening hours • Increased library floorspace • Upgraded public toilet facilities located inside the building (current toilet facilities are located outside) • Meeting room space available out of hours • Upgraded technology room and facilities • Increased children’s collection and activity space located adjacent to children’s playground facility • Inclusion of a dedicated young adult space • More areas to sit and gather due to removal of small rooms and walls • New furniture and relocatable shelving on wheels • Out of hours returns chute directly into a dedicated sorting room • An additional rear accessible entrance adjacent to car parking space providing a safer option for library users to access the facility • Upgraded staff facilities The commitment: $1.25 million by City of Ballarat Project status: Designs and plans for the refurbishment of the Sebastopol Library are progressing, with the tender for architectural services advertised in October, 2015. Following architectural design, the tender for building works will be advertised mid-2016 with construction to begin next year. IN THE WORKS Her Majesty’s Theatre The project: New theatre seats and upgrade to provide a contemporary theatre experience. The new seats will be installed on a new curved alignment to allow for improved sightlines, a total of 890 seats, and a number of wider seats with improved DDA accessibility to the stalls. Existing donor plaques will be reinstalled. Upgrade includes: patch, repair and refinish flooring, realign and reinstall footwarmers, carpentry works to stairs, lighting connection and new specially designed carpet for the entire building. The commitment: $1.148 million by City of Ballarat Project status: Works are scheduled to commence mid-December, 2015, with the expected completion date of February, 2016. This is the Theatre’s usual shutdown period. FUTURE WORKS Works on all Budget Priority Projects are underway. Other Priority Projects are: Ballarat Botanical Gardens Fernery ($1.4 million), Black Hill Reserve Lookout ($230,000), Mining Exchange Live Music Venue ($150,000), Implementation of the Environmental Sustainability Strategy ($100,000), Regional Motor Sports Facility ($100,000), Art Gallery of Ballarat desk and curtains ($50,000), Youth Space ($50,000) and LED Street Lighting ($25,000). Saleyards Decision At a Special Meeting of Ballarat City Council on 14 October, 2015, a majority of Councillors voted in favour of a new saleyards development, the Central Victoria Livestock Exchange, between the Sunraysia Highway and the Western Freeway, south west of Miners Rest. The Special Meeting was held over three days (12, 13 and 14 October) to hear submissions on the application for Amendment C185 to the Ballarat Planning Scheme. In August 2014, Council received a Planning Scheme Amendment application to rezone land to the Special Use Zone with targeted development controls for the site. The Victorian Minister for Planning will now assess the Planning Scheme Amendment and will make the ultimate decision. For more information on the Planning Scheme Amendment application and the saleyards, visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au and follow links to Strategic Projects. 8 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Building Ballarat Stay safe, stay Fire Ready this Summer Whether you own or lease, you are legally required to manage fire risks on your property. You must ensure it is clean and free of any debris, long grass or other vegetation that could pose a fire hazard. FIRE HAZARD REDUCTION CHECKLIST Cut any long grass so it is not higher than 100mm and maintain it at that height throughout the fire season. This includes maintaining your nature strip to the gutter, either by mowing or removing any excess vegetation that could pose a fire risk. Remove flammable material on or around your home, including cleaning out gutters and spouting. Clear away dead undergrowth and fallen branches, and ensure that any firewood or timber is stored well away from your home and outbuildings. As a general rule, the on-ground mulch or leaf layer should be no more than 2cm thick. Remove any noxious and environmental weeds from your property, including highly flammable gorse infestations. Trim excess vegetation, including overhanging branches, along driveways and firebreaks to ensure easy access for firefighting appliances. As a guide, the Country Fire Authority requires minimum clearance of 4 metres wide x 4 metres high. Make sure your property is clearly numbered so that it can be found quickly and easily by emergency services. The City of Ballarat, under the CFA Act, must regularly inspect all properties within the municipality for potential fire risks. Residents in violation will receive a Fire Prevention Notice. A Fire Prevention Notice is a legally enforceable directive under the CFA Act. Failure to comply could lead to substantial fines or, in serious cases, imprisonment. Infringement starts at $1,517 and legal proceedings may occur resulting in fines up to $18,200 and/or 12 months imprisonment. These penalties are declared in the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 (Section 41) Want to know more about Fire Prevention Notices? Call the City of Ballarat’s Fire Prevention Officer at 5320 5568. CITY OF BALLARAT TAKES ACTION The City of Ballarat is busy getting prepared for the fire season. A variety of teams work together to make sure residents are best placed in the event of an emergency. Fire season preparations • Strategic fire control lines cut and maintained during the Fire Danger Period These roads are strategically identified by the Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee to assist with stopping the spread of a fire. • Rural roadside slashing Primarily for road safety but also assists in fire prevention. • Reserves and open spaces slashed where practical • Monitor and maintain all City of Ballarat-managed fire access tracks Before undertaking a controlled burn, check to see if you need a permit. Within the declared Fire Restriction Period PROTECTING THE CITY OF BALLARAT What if I receive a Fire Prevention Notice? Act quickly to remove the fire hazard in the timeframe specified on the Notice. Controlled Burns • Designate and maintain strategically-placed static water supplies to assist the fire agencies • Under the Electrical Safety Act, the City inspects for hazardous trees Making a plan The City of Ballarat works closely with all emergency services in the preparation for the fire season and maintains the Municipal Fire and Emergency Management Plans. The City conducts community education in conjunction with the CFA and has supported the development and implementation of Community Information Guides in high fire risk areas. The CFA Act requires that you apply for/obtain a Permit to Burn before burning off. Permits are issued either by the City of Ballarat’s Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA. Outside of the Fire Restriction Period The requirements and conditions relating to lighting fires in the open are specified under Council’s Local Law 17 (Section 3.8.1). Under this law, a Permit to Burn must be obtained if you wish to light a fire or allow one to remain alight in the open air or in an incinerator on any land less than half an acre or 0.2 hectare in size within an urban residential area or township residential area. www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 9 Many thousands of innovative and inspiring conversations with local residents have come together to inform the next stage of the Civic Hall site project. In November, the final five concepts for development of the site were unveiled to the Ballarat community. The Next Stage The final five concepts will be discussed at a public Ballarat City Council meeting in 2015. Interested community members are encouraged to attend the meeting and share their thoughts on the Civic Hall site. Details of the meeting will be available on the City of Ballarat website: www.ballarat.vic.gov.au, Facebook and Twitter pages. Participatory Community Design 2015 In August 2014, the City of Ballarat made a commitment to introduce a community-driven participatory design process for the Civic Hall site. The centrally-located site holds immense value and potential in socio-cultural and economic terms. It has excellent CBD proximity and transport links. Here Studio was appointed to manage the participatory design process and in November 2014, the Civic Hall’s foyer became host to the Open Door Studio. Over the past 12 months, extensive work has gone in to refining the design concepts from 300 to 10 and from 10 to 5. There has been thorough and detailed consideration of urban and architectural design prospects, as well as technical and cost planning, and consultation with experts. In November 2015, the Core Team hosted a public launch of the final five concepts. The concepts are now on display at the Ballarat Library, and will be exhibited at the Open Door Studio on Tuesdays and Thursdays from December. To join the conversation, visit www.civichall.org or follow the Civic Hall on Facebook and Twitter. The Final Five Concepts: Civic Hall Site Concept K In Concept K, the Ballarat Library starts at Mair and Armstrong Streets and connects community uses indoors and outdoors, through multipurpose adaptive reuse of the Civic Hall, a mix of shops, cafés and apartments, and a high quality office building. 10 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Concept L In Concept L, the Civic Hall is turned into a purpose-built performing arts centre complemented by an expanded Ballarat Library and a new office building activating Market Street. The Hall includes raked seating, flytowers, large and small event spaces, and loading bays. Concept M In Concept M, a diverse commercial mix of shops, cafés, studios and high quality offices connect community uses indoors and outdoors. There is a new office building on Armstrong and Market Streets, adaptive reuse of the Civic Hall, roof gardens, and an expanded Ballarat Library. www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 11 Concept N In Concept N, the Ballarat Library wraps the Armstrong Street half of the site with adaptive reuse of the Civic Hall, and a high quality office building on the Creswick Road corner. The Library includes a new entrance that activates both Armstrong and Market Streets. Concept O In Concept O, the Ballarat Library wraps the Armstrong Street half of the site with a series of courtyards, and adaptive reuse of the Civic Hall to complement a high quality office building. The Library emphasises community space that starts on the corner of Mair and Armstrong Streets. 12 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au THE BALLARAT ECONOMY A strong Ballarat economy is good for everyone. The City of Ballarat’s Economic Program 2015-2019 sets out a practical framework to guide economic development in the city over the next four years. Adopted by Ballarat City Council in August, the Program builds on Council’s 20-year economic vision and is closely integrated with Council’s long-term plan for growth and development, The Ballarat Strategy (2015). BALLARAT’S ECONOMIC VISION Regional Development – the Capital of Western Victoria Economic Growth and Diversification Capitalising on Population Growth Ballarat will consolidate its position as the capital of Western Victoria over the next 20 years. The city will serve the region with higher order retail, service, business, institutional, entertainment, recreation and cultural needs. Ballarat will build on its strengths to become the premier high tech and knowledge-based economy in Australia. The city’s diversified knowledge-based economy – defined by higher education, health services, research, manufacturing, information technology and business services – will grow, integrate and evolve to generate significant new investment and jobs, including a large number of highly skilled jobs. The forecast growth in Ballarat’s population will be the single most important factor influencing the city’s economic development in the short, medium and longer terms. The growth in Ballarat’s services sector has been dramatic in the past decade. Of the $2.5 billion growth in the Ballarat economy from 2007 to 2014, more than 44% ($1.1 billion output) was from the service economy. Ballarat’s annual population growth rate is 2.1%. The Victorian rate is 1.6%. The latest forecasts by Victoria in the Future (2014) report that Ballarat’s population will exceed 142,000 residents by 2031, an increase of 40,000 residents in the next 16 years. Platforms of Growth Australia’s Best There are four platforms of growth in the Ballarat economy: The City of Ballarat won an Economic Development Australia 2015 National Award for Excellence, with its Ballarat Industry Participation Program (BIPP) taking home the Business/Industry Development Project Award. Since 2010, the BIPP has driven $231 million into our local economy every year, though a reduction in escape expenditure. The BIPP has also delivered $54 million into the local economy through the increase in Council contracts with local businesses. In 2013, the City of Ballarat won the EDA Strategic Planning Award for the Ballarat West Employment Zone. • Economic Growth and Transformation • CBD Activation • Innovation • Building Capacity From Within JOBS IN BALLARAT More people are working in Ballarat than ever before with the city reporting a strong downward trend in the local unemployment rate, as evidenced in the City of Ballarat Economic Program 2015-2019. In December 2010, Ballarat’s unemployment rate was 7%, above the state and national unemployment rate of 5%. In December 2013, the Ballarat’s unemployment rate was just above 5%, below the national and state rates. The significant drop in the local unemployment rate is reflected in the growth and development of Ballarat’s economy, with more than $2.5 billion added to the Ballarat economy from 2007 to 2014. The Jobs Picture: 2007-2014 In 2014, Ballarat largest employers by sector were: • Health Care & Social Assistance: 6,849 jobs • Retail/Trade: 5,299 jobs • Manufacturing: 4,646 jobs • Education & Training: 4,101 jobs • Accommodation & Food Services: 2,699 jobs Ballarat’s jobs of the future From 2014 to 2031, the total number of jobs in Ballarat will increase from 33,773 in 2014 to more than 54,700 in 2031. Top jobs in 2031 • Health Care & Social Assistance: 10,349 (+3,500 jobs than 2014) • Retail Trade: 7,341 (+2042 jobs) • Education & Training: 6,471 (+2,370 jobs) •Manufacturing: 5,353 (+707 jobs) • Accommodation & Food Services: 3,809 (+1,110 jobs) •Construction: 3,435 (+1,195 jobs) • Professional, Scientific & Technical Services: 3,425 (+1,192 jobs) Other sectors expected to experience large job increases in the City of Ballarat: • ICT: up 75.4% to 1,401 jobs in 2031 • Transport, Postal & Warehousing: up 45.3% to 1,923 jobs in 2031 • Administrative & Support Services: up 41.1% to 1,187 jobs in 2031 • Arts & Recreation Services: up 41.1% to 971 jobs in 2031 • Public Administration & Safety: up 35.3% to 3,175 jobs in 2031 Find out more about our city and its economic future in the City of Ballarat Economic Program 2015-2019 at www.ballarat.vic.gov.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 13 Christmas in Ballarat Jingle your way into the CBD and experience the magic of Christmas. Christmas decorations Every year our city’s Christmas decorations attract crowds from Ballarat and all over Victoria. Best experienced at night, visit the CBD to see the: • Famous floral reindeers • Christmas trees, decorations and lighting in the 300 block of Sturt Street and Bakery Hill • Christmas flags, cubes and planter boxes • Rotunda decorations in the 400 block, giant baubles, giant stars, floral santa boots, floral stars and floral trees. • Christmas bows and Christmas-themed projections on the Ballarat Town Hall. Visitors to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens during the festive season will also enjoy the Christmas-themed garden beds. Ferris Wheel The City of Ballarat’s FREE Ferris Wheel is back by popular demand. Located at the Sturt Street end of the Bridge Mall, take a ride on the 12-carriage Christmas Ferris Wheel and get a unique view of beautiful Ballarat. The Ferris Wheel will be officially launched on Saturday 5 December and will operate every day, 10am to 5pm, until Christmas. City of Ballarat Holiday Closures The City of Ballarat services and operations have altered operational hours during the Christmas and New Year holiday period. City of Ballarat office departments will shut down at 5pm, Thursday 24 December, 2015 and will reopen on Monday 4 January, 2016. The City of Ballarat operations rapid response team, street cleansing/sanitation unit and waste collection unit will continue to operate during the holiday period. Community Care and Access will also continue to provide essential services to clients during the holiday period. The Art Gallery of Ballarat, 40 Lydiard Street North, is closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open 10am to 5pm all other days. Entry is free. Waste Collection City of Ballarat Libraries There will be no waste or recycling collection on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Bins will be picked up the following day. All other collections are as usual. City Services The Ballarat Botanical Gardens is open every day. The Robert Clark Conservatory is closed Christmas Day. Open 9am to 5pm all other days. Entry is free. Her Majesty’s Theatre including the MajesTix Box Office, closes end of business, Wednesday 23 December. Due to reseating and recarpeting works in January 2016, reopening may be delayed or a temporary site established. During this period, updates, tickets, memberships and gift certificates are available online at www.hermaj.com Ballarat Library, 178 Doveton Street North Thursday 24 December 9.30am to 5pm 25 December to 28 December: Closed Tuesday 29 December 9.30am to 6pm Wednesday 30 December 9.30am to 6pm Thursday 31 December 9.30am to 6pm Friday 1 January: Closed Normal opening hours from Saturday 2 January, 2016 Wendouree Library, Stockland Shopping Centre Closes: 5pm, Thursday 24 December. Normal opening hours resume on Saturday 2 January, 2016. Sebastopol Library, 181 Albert Street Closes: 1pm, Thursday 24 December. Normal opening hours resume on Saturday 2 January, 2016. Library Outreach Services Closes: Thursday 24 December. Normal opening hours resume on Saturday 2 January, 2016. Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre (BALC) Thursday 24 December: 6am to 6pm Friday 25 December: Closed Saturday 26 December: 8am to 4pm Sunday 27 December: 8am to 6pm Monday 28 December: 8am to 4pm 29 December to 31 December: 6am to 6pm Friday 1 January: 8am to 4pm Normal opening hours from Saturday 2 January, 2016 The BALC Children’s Centre will close at 5pm, Thursday 24 December. It will re-open Monday 4 January, and will operate 8.30am to 12.30pm, 4 to 8 January. The Children’s Centre will resume normal operating hours from Monday 11 January, 2016. Want to know more? Call City of Ballarat Customer Service at 5320 5500. 14 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au EUREKA DAY To 6 Dec Four Tens: forty years of Australian Art, 1940-1980 To 10 Jan Matthew Clarke: The wallabies’ garden party 7.30 to 9.30pm North Gardens, Lake Wendouree facebook.com/ballaratcarols The 161th anniversary of the Eureka Rebellion For events, see page 22 ChristmasFest by the Lake 2015 Ballarat Fresh Produce Market 5 to 9pm Pleasant Street Primary School Lake Wendouree 9am to 1pm Bridge Mall Detox Your Home Saturday 5 December | 10am to 5pm Ballarat Market Every Sunday, 8am to 1pm Ballarat Showgrounds Cnr Creswick Rd & Howitt Street Presented by Ballarat South Rotary Club Ballarat Transfer Station, Gillies Street South Free, safe disposal of household chemicals. 11 to 13 December | Lake Wendouree To 10 Jan John Bursill: Fire, Drought and Flood 7pm, Town Hall To 17 Jan Ordinary Council Meeting Deanne Gilson: Body of My Ancestors 24 Jan to 17 April IRONMAN 70.3 Ballarat 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride & 21.1km run Buninyong Village Twilight Market FREE Christmas Concert by Singers of the Black Book 2.30pm Art Gallery of Ballarat 4 to 8pm Buninyong Town Hall Town Hall, Sturt Street, Ballarat ballarat.vic.gov.au Smart Living Market William Kentridge: Drawn from Africa 9am to 1pm Windmill Drive, Lake Wendouree artgalleryofballarat.com.au Looking for last minute AMT Ballarat Gold Christmas Gifts? Pro Tournament 19 to 23 December Visit Santa an Saturday 19 December Santa Claus will make appearance at many retail son, locations this Christmas sea are, Squ tral Cen r, Mye g udin incl Bridge Mall and Stockland Wendouree. Remember to take your Christmas list! 9am to 1pm Ballarat Showgrounds ballaratfood.com Christmas Day On Your Bike! Cycling in Ballarat To April 2016 Gold Museum Bradshaw Street, Ballarat A celebration of Ballarat love of cycling and cycling culture. Christmas Day sovereignhill.com.au/gold-museum New Year's Eve Light Up Christmas Take a family tour of Ballarat’s best Christmas light displays, including Sturt Street and the famous reindeer! 26 & 27 December Shakespeare’s most popular play, presented by OZACT Kirk’s Reservoir Park "Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year" ballarattennis.com 8.30 to 9.30am Ballarat’s many retail stores have Christmas covered. Keep your money local festive season. ChemClear Ballarat Transfer Station Free disposal of farm chemicals To register, call 1800 008 182 26 to 31 December Australian Jazz Convention 2015jazzconvention.org.au Boxing Day Christmas Carnival Ballarat Cycling event presented by Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club Marty Busch Reserve, Sebastopol www.vic.cycling.org.au True Spirit of Christmas This Christmas, please give generously to Ballarat’s worthy appeals, including the 3BA Christmas Appeal, Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal, Target and UnitingCare Giving Box, Myer Christmas Gift Wrap and Centacare Christmas Appeal. www.ozact.com www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 15 2016 Mars Cycling Australia Road National Championships 6 to 10 January The Mars Cycling Australia Road National Championships is the most prestigious event on the Australian cycling calendar and the third largest elite road cycling event in Australia. In January, the nation’s best cyclists take to the streets of Ballarat and Buninyong to compete for the prestigious green and gold jersey. Criterium Sturt Street, from Lyons Street to Lydiard Street Wednesday 6 January Held in the heart of Ballarat’s CBD in the early summer evening, competitors ride up to 40 laps of the 1.1km course. Come along, be part of the excitement and festival atmosphere, do some late night shopping and eat at one of the local cafés. Individual Time Trial Buninyong Thursday 7 January Set amongst Buninyong’s rolling hills, the time trial is a real test of a rider’s physical and mental strength. Affectionately known as the “race of truth,” it’s each rider against the clock and the fastest rider wins. Mark your calendar Road Race Buninyong Saturday 9 January 1pm – U23 Men (132km) Sunday 10 January 8am – U23 & Elite Women (102km) 12pm – Elite Men (183km) Traffic alterations Watch Australia’s best cyclists race the iconic 10.2km circuit around Mount Buninyong. With many of the Australian cyclists that feature in the Tour de France, Olympic Games and World Championships, spectators are encouraged to experience what millions of people do each year when they line the roads of Europe for the world’s biggest bike races. Details of the road closures and traffic diversions will be available at the City of Ballarat’s website: www.ballarat.vic.gov.au and in The Courier in early January, 2016. Mark the calendar with the City of Ballarat’s great annual community events of 2016 and don’t forget to invite your friends and family to visit and celebrate Ballarat! 12 to 14 March – Ballarat Begonia Festival 20 March – Harmony Fest 7&8 May – Ballarat Heritage Weekend July School Holidays – Winterlude October – Ballarat Seniors Festival October - Children’s Week Looking for a 2016 calendar? Pick up a free copy of the City of Ballarat ‘All of Us’ Wall Calendar, featuring cultural days and events. Available mid-December at the Multicultural Information Place desk, Ballarat Library. For the safety of all road users, there will be road closures and traffic diversions throughout the Road National Championships. To minimise disruption, the City of Ballarat will liaise directly with residents and business owners in the affected areas through letter drops and community meetings. Want more information? Visit www.roadnationals.org.au Follow Cycling Australia on Facebook and Twitter Did you know? Every year more than 100,000 people enjoy the City of Ballarat’s annual events and celebrations including the Ballarat Begonia Festival, Ballarat Heritage Weekend, Summer Sundays, Harmony Fest, Christmas and Australia Day. Saturday 16 January With countless craft beers from across Australia, 2016 is set to be the biggest Ballarat Beer Festival yet. Sample the nation’s best rare brews, get immersed in the brewing process and discover the fine art of matching great ales with food. A cavalcade of food trucks from around the state will roll into town, and entertainment includes a line-up of independent artists throughout the day plus a bucket load of kid’s activities. Want to know more? www.ballaratbeerfestival.com.au 16 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au MARS CYCLING AUSTRALIA ROAD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS New Years Day 6 to 10 January, Ballarat CBD & Buninyong www.roadnationals.org.au. See page 16 Ballarat Fresh Produce Market 9am to 1pm Bridge Mall New Year’s Day Races Burrumbeet Park & Windermere Racing Club Countryracing.com.au 6 to 8 January 8 to 17 January 9 & 23 January Follow Your Dream Dance Competition Organs of the Goldfields Smart Living Farmers Market Mercure Ballarat ballarat.com/organs See page 18 9am to 1pm Windmill Drive, Lake Wendouree Ballarat Market Every Sunday, 8am to 1pm Ballarat Showgrounds Cnr Creswick Rd & Howitt Street Presented by Ballarat South Rotary Club Summer Sundays Ballarat Botanical Gardens See page 20 GOT OLD MEDICATIONS? Out of date and unwanted medications should be returned to a pharmacist. If put into landfill, medications are the hardest contaminant to remove from waste water streams and can stay in the environment for decades. returnmed.com.au Jiggety-Jig Farmers Market 9am to 1pm Ballarat Showgrounds ballaratfood.com 23 & 24 January Ballarat Regatta & City of Ballarat Sprint Regatta Australia Day Lake Wendouree Ballarat PETstock Pacing Cup Bray Raceway ballarattrottingclub.com.au 26 JANUARY 7pm, Town Hall Ordinary Council Meeting Town Hall, Sturt Street, Ballarat ballarat.vic.gov.au Saturday 30 January Buninyong Marvellous Marmalade Fair 1 to 4pm buninyong.vic.au/marmalade Starry Summer Nights - The Sci-Fi Event All things sci-fi! Ballarat Observatory, Mount Pleasant ballarat.net www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 17 11 to 14 February The Ballarat Beat Rockabilly Festival comes alive on the streets of Ballarat's CBD and celebrates all things rockabilly in an unforgettable way! It’s an electric spectacle, with international music acts spilling from bars and balconies, hundreds of glamorous retro guys and gals flocking into town, parades of classic cars and hot rods, unique market stalls and more. Lose yourself in the colour and excitement of the 1950's rock n' roll days! In 2016, there is an exciting line up of national and international artists including the UK’s the Kingcats and The Netherlands’ CC Jerome, as well as the 2016 Valentine’s Ball. Want to know more? Visit ballaratbeat.com.au or follow the Festival on facebook Ballarat Cycle Classic Sunday 21 February The Ballarat Cycle Classic has cemented its place as one of the city’s great participation events so this summer, sign up, get on the bike and help raise valuable money for cancer research. One hundred percent of all registration fees are donated to the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute (FECRI), with the first 1,200 entries receiving the unique Ballarat Cycle Classic jersey. In eight years, the Classic has raised more than $1.2 million for cancer research. In 2016, the Cycle Classic Precinct at Lake Wendouree is the place to be, with the 50km, 60km, 85km, 100km and 135km circuits, starting and finishing at the hub. Take MTB Fat Tyre Challenge of 25km, 33km, 40km and 50kms, or join the cycling relay race around the Lake. Want to know more? Not sure about riding? Support the Classic and sign up for the 6km Lake walk. The Family Fun Day will run all day with free kid’s activities, including mobile climbing wall, jumping castles, face painting, and balloon and kid’s art. There will be a great display of cycling equipment, music and entertainment, as well as food and beverages. Visit www.ballaratcycleclassic.com.au 2015 Ballarat Cycle Classic Facts • • • • • • • 200 volunteers Total km’s cycled: 153,000 1,600 bananas consumed 1,000 sausages eaten Oldest participant: 80 years Youngest participant: 6 months Participant from farthest away: Darwin Ballarat on TV Light, cameras, action! The silver screen has been covered in Ballarat this Spring. Local residents filled the audience of Q&A at Federation University, and a full house enjoyed the live Rockwiz show at Regent Cinema. Australian viewers learned all about Ballarat, including the city’s unique retail, arts and culture, and food experiences on Postcards and Better Homes and Gardens. Ballarat will again play a starring role in the new season of The Doctor Blake Mysteries, airing on ABC 1 in February, 2016. Organs of the Goldfields Ballarat Gift 8 to 17 January 6 & 7 February Classical music in historic locations is the hallmark of the Organs of the Goldfields festival. In its 21st year, the program features 24 recitals on organ, strings, brass, woodwind and voice in Ballarat and the region. Locals and visitors will enjoy demonstrations on heritage church organs, visits to historic and tourist sites, and social functions and dinners. Australia’s best sprinters will line up to race the Ballarat Gift at Eastern Oval. Presented by the Ballarat Athletic Club, the 120-metre handicapped foot race has been running for more than 60 years. The first and final Festival performances are at the beautiful St Patrick’s Cathedral in the heart of Ballarat. Want to know more? Visit www.ballarat.com/organs For booking queries, call 0429 327 097 For program information, call 5333 1195 18 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au A record number of entrants competed in the 2015 Gift, including a large increase in the junior race entries showcasing the future of athletics in Australia, with an estimated 2,000 spectators enjoying the action. Want to know more? Visit ballaratgift.com Ballarat Backyard Tasters 5, 12, 19 & 26 February Alfred Deakin Place Ballarat Fresh Produce Market 6 & 7 February 9am to 1pm Bridge Mall Eastern Oval See page 18 6 & 7 February Ballarat Market WendoureeBallarat Rowing Regatta Every Sunday, 8am to 1pm Ballarat Showgrounds Presented by Ballarat South Rotary Club Lake Wendouree wbrc.com.au See page 21 13 & 27 February Smart Living Farmers Market Chinese New Year Ballarat Gift Valentine's Day 9am to 1pm Windmill Drive, Lake Wendouree 2016 is the Year of the Monkey Ballarat Rodeo | Ballarat Airport BALLARAT BEAT ROCKABILLY FESTIVAL 11 to 14 February, See page 18 ballaratbeat.com.au Rowing Victoria Schools APS Regatta Lake Wendouree Saturday 13 February 6 & 7 February WendoureeBallarat Rowing Regatta Lake Wendouree wbrc.com.au Saturday 19 December Ballarat Airport Major regional car show Ballarat Showgrounds ballaratfood.com 25 to 27 February 26 to 28 February Ballarat Swap Meet Rowing Victoria State Champs Regatta Australia’s largest swap meet! 20,000 people visit more than 2,000 sites Lake Wendouree Ballaratcycleclassic.com.au See page 18 Horsepower Extravaganza 9am to 1pm Ballarat Airport Ballarat Cycle Classic Lake Wendouree Rowingvictoria.asn.au 27 & 28 February Miss Muddy Ballarat Turf Club missmuddy.com.au ballaratswapmeet.com.au Starring BALLARAT The Doctor Blake Mysteries returns to ABC 1 in February Highland Gathering Sunday 28 February | Lake Wendouree www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 19 r e Summ Sundays One of Ballarat’s most popular summer events, Summer Sundays, returns to the beautiful surrounds of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens in January. At its new time, 4 to 7pm, mark 10, 17, 24 and 31 January on the calendar and relax, be entertained and enjoy Summer Sundays. Sunday 10 January Sunday 17 January Sunday 24 January Sunday 31 January 4 to 5.15pm Freya Josephine Hollick 4 to 5.15pm Brendan Welch 4 to 5.15pm Arkie T Williams & The Mudlarks 4 to 5.15pm All Our Exes Live in Texas 5.15pm to 5.45pm Yuko Nishiyama 5.15 to 5.45pm John McNamara 5.15 to 5.45pm A Miner 5.15 to 5.45pm Ari & Rhiannon 5.45 to 7pm Quarry Mountain Dead Rats 5.45 to 7pm The Reprobettes 5.45 to 7pm Montaigne 5.45 to 7pm Thelma Plum Freya Josephine Hollick Brendan Welch Arkie T Williams & The Mudlarks All Our Exes Live in Texas Genre: Country/Roots Genre: Indie Folk Interval A Miner Genre: Folktronica Interval Ari & Rhiannon Genre: Indie Montaigne Thelma Plum Genre: Indie/Pop/Rock Genre: Folktronica Genre: Folk/Country Freya Josephine Hollick is a folk musician from the Victorian Goldfields. She sings of breathtaking, bucolic scenes, perfectly articulated love and loss, and our very human fear of both. Interval Yuko Nishiyama Genre: Indie Pop Quarry Mountain Dead Rats Genre: Bluegrass Taking it back to a simpler time, where the pickin’ was fast and the banjo was king, this five-piece bring their raw and gritty version of bluegrass kicking and hollering into the modern day. Genre: Indie Rock Brendan Welch is a quiet master of Australian song-writing, channelling the likes of The Go-Betweens and Paul Kelly while adding a lonesome country twang. Interval John McNamara Genre: Blues The Reprobettes Genre: 60’s Garage/Surf Rock The Reprobettes’ music would be equally at home on a Tarantino soundtrack or at a 1960’s beach party. Playing reverb-drenched garage rock laced with fuzzy riffs, surf influences and defiant attitudes, they are out to prove that bad girls have all the fun! Arkie T Williams is a natural fit for alternative country and roots music. With her band 'The Mudlarks,' buckle up for toe-tapping tunes with halting moments of sorrowful beauty. Montaigne's fresh and powerful vocals showcase an incredible talent beyond her years. Handpicked by San Cisco and Megan Washington as special guest on their national tours, she is a young songstress gaining well-deserved media hype. With four songwriters and four unique voices, All Our Exes make music that is refreshingly different, crafted with taste, care and skill creating a brand new type of modern folk. Thelma Plum is a Gamilaroy woman, an Indigenous singer-songwriter who captured the hearts of Australians when her first demo ‘Father Said’ won Triple J’s Unearthed competition in 2012. Thelma has performed at major music festivals and sold out tours across Australia. Thelma Plum The Reprobettes Quarry Mountain Dead Rats Scrumptious Sundays Grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors available on site The Forge Pizzeria: Wood fired Pizza Bean Me Up Espresso: Coffee, Chai and Chocolate Baskervilles Jaffles: Toasties with a Twist Wholesome Hippo: Vegan Friendly Raw Food Combinations, Cold-Pressed Juices, Smoothies and Desserts Bianco Latte: Artisan Gelato and Sorbet Montaigne Summer Sundays When: 4 to 7pm – 10, 17, 24 and 31 January Where: Ballarat Botanical Gardens (enter via Wendouree Parade or Gillies Street) All Summer Sundays are FREE Bring a picnic, rug or low chair. Arrive early for a beanbag (limited number available) The Conservatory and Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage will be open during all Summer Sundays events. Want to know more? Follow Summer Sundays on Facebook. BALLARAT BACKYARD TASTERS Ballarat’s favourite FREE Friday night chill-out is back in 2016. All four Fridays in February, Alfred Deakin Place will come alive with a selection of Ballarat’s best local and live music, food & fun! Ballarat Backyard Tasters 6 to 9pm, Friday 5, 12, 19 & 26 February Alfred Deakin Place, Ballarat CBD Plans for Backyard Tasters are in the works, and full event details will be available on the City of Ballarat website, www.ballarat.vic.gov.au in December or follow Ballarat City Council on facebook and Twitter. Heritage Grants – Now Open Applications are now open for the Ballarat heritage grants. Each year, the Ballarat Heritage Restoration Fund offers $100,000 in heritage grants to assist local owners of not-for-profit, commercial and private properties to conserve and restore their properties. Recent Ballarat Heritage Grant recipients include: • 320A Learmonth Street, Buninyong - new corrugated iron roof • 38 Hotham Street, Lake Wendouree - new slate roof Celebrate Australia Day in Ballarat Tuesday 26 January 6 to 6.45pm - Kanga Kapers Celebrate Australia Day in Ballarat at Lake Wendouree with FREE live entertainment followed by the 3BA Skyworks Spectacular. 7 to 7.45pm - Aussie Rocks! This rock’n’roll duo has worked with some of the greatest names in the music industry including Tom Jones and Jimmy Barnes. Gillian & Terry combine their extensive musical know-how and experience working on ABC KIDS projects to bring rock’n’roll straight from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s on to the main stage for kids and adults to enjoy. Pack a picnic, chairs and rugs and join the fun at Windmill Drive, next to the Adventure Playground. The event is alcohol free. 5 to 5.30pm - Kanga Kapers The musical kritters will play their funky tunes around the Australia Day site and on the main stage with quirky twists on modern classics. 5.30 to 6pm - Pink Moon Featuring a fantastic mix of blues classics, country stompers, classy jazz numbers, alternative rock tunes, and contemporary hits, Pink Moon will play popular songs from the 50's to now and some classic rock anthems. 7.45 to 8pm - Mayor’s Welcome 8 to 9pm - Electric Intent Electric Intent recreate the distinct sounds of bands like U2, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, AC/DC, Dire Straits, Crowded House, The Beatles, Elvis, Guns ‘n Roses, Pink Floyd and Ben E King - encompassing most genres of live music. 9pm – 3BA Skyworks Spectacular Food vendors will be available on site including Just Chips, Bean Me Up Espresso, Baskerville Jaffles, Ballarat East Men’s Shed and The Icecream Truck. • Clifton Villa, 208 Winter Street, Buninyong - chimney repairs/lace work • 604 Sebastopol Street, Ballarat - new corrugated iron roof • 17 Ascot Street North, Ballarat - verandah tiles restoration • 13 Young Street, Golden Point - new corrugated iron roof and verandah Want to know more? Visit www.vhrf.org.au Photo: With the support of a Ballarat Heritage Grant, owners of 38 Hotham Street, Lake Wendouree teamed up with Ballarat expert slate roofer, John Murnane, to restore their heritage home. John won the 2011 Ballarat Heritage Award for specialist trade skills. HUL Ballarat wins Victorian Special Excellence Award! So, what's HUL Ballarat? It's a new interactive website about our people, culture and place. Get online today and see what everyone's talking about! Visit www.hulballarat.org.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 21 Gum Loong’s 20th Birthday Party 9.45 to 11am Gum Loong, Ballarat’s Chinese Fortune Dragon, will join a parade of primary school students, the Ballarat Chinese Community Association and the Ballarat China Community Committee, accompanied by drums and Chinese Lions. Free event, spectators welcome. SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER Peter Tobin Oration 11 to 11.45am President of Eureka’s Children Eric Howard presents the annual address about the Eureka Stockade and contemporary democracy. Free event. Bookings essential. EUREKA DAY Ballarat celebrates 161 years since the Eureka Stockade Rebellion, 3 December 1854. All events at Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E) Death or Liberty Death or Liberty THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 1.30pm Free entry to M.A.D.E on Eureka Day Eureka Democracy on Trial Eureka Day 161 Commemoration Eureka Democracy on Trial 7.20 to 8.30am 2pm. Also screened at 11am & 2pm on 4 & 5 Dec. Graeme Innes AM, former Disability Rights Commissioner, will speak at the Commemoration, which co-incides with International Day for People with disabilities. Free event, bookings essential. SUMMER AT M.A.D.E Filmed re-enactment of the 1855 trial, based on the original court transcripts of the trial of Timothy Hayes. Produced by Bottled Snail Productions. Free event. 21 December to 27 January Summer School Holiday Program Roar Film will premiere its documentary, Death or Liberty, based on historian & author Tony Moore’s book about the political prisoners that came to Australia as convicts in the mid 1800s. A Q&A session and live music accompany film. Classification: M Bookings essential, $10 per ticket. Online bookings or call 1800 287 113. Summer at Circles, stars and squares. Explore geometry with M.A.D.E’s discovery worksheets, craft a pixel mask and play shape-themed games in M.A.D.E’s bean bag garden. Saltbush Kitchen offer: $5 cookie and juice box. 5 February to 10 April Political T’s Next of Kin | 3 to 20 December Exhibition of iconic T-Shirts and photographs, showcasing the role of T-Shirts in protest and political debate. Work by son, mother and auntie - Scott Fredericks, Pam Fredericks and Joan Asmussen - exploring photography, mosaic and fibre artistry. Rare Trades | 4 to 21 February Group exhibition of contemporary work of beauty and function, created by traditional hand skills. To 31 January, 2016 ‘Songs of Freedom – Celebrating Democracy’ exhibition Ballaarat Quilters Inc celebrate its 20th Anniversary with its national Quilters Challenge Exhibition. The quilts are inspired by the lyrics of five protest songs which form part of an interactive permanent exhibit at M.A.D.E. Cut | 25 February to 13 March 102 Stawell Street South, Ballarat. Open 10am to 5pm daily. All exhibitions are free with admission. Entry is free for Ballarat residents. For info, call 1800 287 113 or visit www.made.org Group exhibition, curated by Laurene Dietrich, celebrating the collaborative nature of ‘women’s work.’ Huyghue House | 15 Camp Street Thursday - Sunday 12 - 4pm Love Arts & Culture? Call for artists Want to keep up with the local arts scene? Or share your cultural events? Share your life in Ballarat with the world, with this open invitation to artistic Ballarat people of all ages, all backgrounds, and all abilities. Join more than 600 local readers and subscribe to the free monthly ARTeFACT eNewsletter, packed with all the happenings of Ballarat’s exciting arts and cultural community. Postcards From Ballarat is a special exhibition of small postcard-size artworks about Ballarat, on exhibition at Backspace Gallery in March 2016, in association with National Diversity Week and Harmony Fest. To sign up, email [email protected] 22 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Want to know more? For application information, email [email protected] or call 5320 5643. Did you know? This year, the Art Gallery of Ballarat will welcome more than 110,000 visitors! UNIQUE & CONTEMPORARY This Summer, Art Gallery of Ballarat will show three very different contemporary art exhibitions. Matthew Clarke creates works full of an effervescent energy, bursting at the seams with eccentric and dynamic characters. From his studio at the old Fletcher Jones Factory in Warrnambool, he paints the wallabies that visit the large rambling garden. John Bursill captures the landscapes of rural Victoria, super-imposing line drawings onto photographs, creating a dialogue with the terrain and interaction with the artist’s shadow, cast across each image. These large-scale photographs brings the viewer face-to-face with the aftermath of nature at its most destructive — the enduring drought of the first decade of the new century, the Black Saturday fires, and the floods of 2010. Matthew Clarke: The wallabies’ garden party Locally-based Deanne Gilson is a proud Wadawurrung artist. In this exhibition, she draws on her English and Aboriginal heritage. Three large clay installations, along with a series of paintings, explore and relate to traditional ways of being, connecting to Country, spirit, lived experience, oral history and memory. Through these works created over the last two years, Gilson aims to establish, revive and maintain Wadawurrung culture, marks, symbols, artefacts, stories, history, song, language, ceremonial and dance practices. 5 December to 17 January To 10 January John Bursill: In Landscape — fire, drought, flood 28 November to 10 January Deanne Gilson: Body of my Ancestors The Art Gallery of Ballarat is open, 10am to 5pm, at 40 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat. Visit www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au ENTRY IS FREE Summer fun at the Gallery Stay cool and have fun at the Art Gallery of Ballarat this Summer holidays. In January, the Gallery offers a great program of art activities and workshops with local artists, with two-hour, one day and two day workshops for school children from Prep to secondary school, and their parents and carers. Become a Member of the Gallery Association and save with great discounts on workshops and classes, as well as in the Gallery Shop, café and other local businesses. The Gallery’s Summer Holiday Program runs 11 to 21 January, 2016. For information, visit www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au or call the Gallery at 5320 5858. www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 23 Become a Family Day Care Educator Imagine doing a job you love in your own home? Not only is Family Day Care a career where you can make a real difference to the lives of young people, it is also financially rewarding. Educators are required to have a minimum of Certificate 3 in Children’s Services, are contracted through the City of Ballarat, and set their own working schedule. Photo: The launch of Children’s Week was an exciting event at Parent Place. New at Parent Place Interested in becoming a Family Day Care Educator? Corner Sturt Street and Albert Street, Ballarat Open: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday | Phone: 5320 5676 Parent Place is the perfect place for parents and carers. Visit the City of Ballarat’s popular, free drop-in centre for change and feeding facilities in a toy-filled, welcoming environment. Want to book your child into Family Day Care? Enrol now for 2016 Run by City of Ballarat Family and Children’s Services staff and supported by an energetic and passionate team of volunteers, valuable support and information available at Parent Place includes: • Child Care •Kindergarten •Playgroups • Family Day Care •Immunisation • Maternal and Child Health Nurses Call the City of Ballarat Family Day Care Co-ordination unit at 5320 5720. New programs at Parent Place • Baha’i Playgroup: 10am, every Monday. Free and open to new members, the playgroup focuses on exploring virtues such as love, kindness and service through stories, songs, craft and play. • Story time: 10.30am, every second Tuesday, starting 1 December. Did you know? • Women’s Health Checks: 9am to 12pm, first Thursday of the month. • Lactation Consultant: 9.30am to 4.30pm, every Thursday. No appointment necessary, just drop-in. • Maternal and Child Health Nurse: 10am to 2.30pm, every Wednesday. No appointment necessary, just drop in. BABY ROOMS Want to keep up-to-date with Parent Place? FollowCARE Parent Place – Ballarat on Facebook The City of Ballarat Maternal and Child Health nurses carry out more than 14,000 visits with local children and their parents and carers every year. The following places in Ballarat provide dedicated baby change and feeding rooms for parents with young children. In addition, public toilets and a number of Ballarat businesses provide nappy change facilities within their toilet facilities. Check with staff at these businesses. Baby Care Rooms Baby Care Rooms Visiting Ballarat with a baby or young children? There are several dedicated baby change and feeding rooms in the City of Ballarat. In addition, many Ballarat businesses offer nappy change facilities within their public toilets - check with staff at local businesses. Microwave Seating Toilet Hand Washing Facilities Designated Feeding Area Parent Place Myer Ballarat Central Square Shopping Centre Stocklands Wendouree Ballarat Library – Doveton Street North UFS Dispensary – Bridge Mall (facility for members) York Street Church of Christ Kiro Kids Sovereign Hill City of Ballarat (Phoenix Building) City of Ballarat (Girrabanya Children’s Centre) DET Regional Office Her Majesty’s Theatre Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E) Ballarat Community Health - Lucas Robert Clarke Centre – Ballarat Botanical Gardens Children’s Services | 5 24 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au SENIOR OF THE YEAR AWARDS SENIOR OF THE YEAR The 2015 City of Ballarat Senior of the Year Award-winners were announced at Town Hall on 25 September, 2015. Every year, the City of Ballarat’s Senior of the Year awards recognise local residents 55 years and older who have made a significant contribution to the Ballarat community. The City of Ballarat 2015 Senior of the Year Award-winners are: Ballarat Senior of the Year – Janet Low Ballarat Senior Volunteer Award – Janet Low Janet first came to Ballarat in 1966 as a Victorian police officer and was one of the pioneers of the Ballarat branch of the Children’s Protection Society. Janet is a founding board member of the Ballarat Arts Foundation, president of the Ballarat Art Gallery Women’s Association, and she was recently awarded the Denis Bateman Award for her long-term commitment to the arts community in Ballarat. Ballarat Senior Workplace Award – Nola Bradley Nola is a support worker and carer for six people with disabilities. Nola is a person who always encourages and supports her colleagues, welcoming new co-workers into the workplace and supporting them in their role. Ballarat Senior Health and Active Living Award – Desmond Lloyd Des has always had a love for cricket and spends most of his time at the Golden Point Cricket Club, teaching kids the finer points of the game. In 2014, Des represented Australia in the over 70’s Ashes team tour of England, winning Man of the Match for one of the games. Ballarat Senior Mentor Award – Alex Tascas As the first female president of the RSL, Alex has set a trailblazing example for servicewomen all over Australia. Alex led Ballarat into the 100th year commemoration of the ANZACs, organising two services, gunfire breakfast and a poignant instalment of 1800 white crosses along Sturt Street – an individual commemoration for each Ballarat resident who served in defence of their country. Janet Low is the City of Ballarat 2015 Senior of the Year Desmond Lloyd, Nola Bradley and Alex Tascas were honoured with City of Ballarat 2015 Senior of the Year awards. Congratulations The winners of the 2015 Inagawa Speech & Cultural Contest are: Laura Benney - Ballarat High School Alison Kemp - Mount Clear College The students were awarded a two-week cultural exchange trip to Ballarat’s sister city, Inagawa, sponsored by the City of Ballarat. Well done to all entrants and runners up who were presented with encouragement awards from local www.ballarat.vic.gov.au sponsors including Federation University, Asahi Restaurant, Kambei Restaurant and Hakubaku Australia25 Ltd. YOUTH AWARDS A record 115 young people were nominated for the City of Ballarat Youth Awards, with 14 exceptional contenders honoured as the 2015 award-winners. YOUTH AWARDS All nominees and their families gathered at the 2015 Youth Awards Ceremony at Regent Cinemas on Friday 23 October, to celebrate the impressive achievements of Ballarat’s young people. Visual Design Sam Brown Young Leader Lamourette Folly Sam has overcome challenges in his life to forge his own graphic design and signage business, S Morgan Creative. He was the recipient of the Rising Star Grant in 2013 and has been involved in many creative projects in Ballarat including an installation for the Laneway Festival, programs and brochures for the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, and the container bar at the Art Gallery for the Archibald Prize exhibition. Lamourette’s commitment to the local community highlights her valuable leadership skills. Currently, she volunteers with the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) Advisory Group, Ballarat African Association, City of Ballarat Youth Council, Victorian Multicultural Commission Grampians Advisory Committee and the Phoenix College student leadership program. She is the founder of a new dance troupe called Zion Girls and helped design and co-create programs such as the CMY Grampians Youth UnConference and Happy Place. Lamourette has achieved all this while studying for Year 12! Youth Community Safety Award Jaymee-Lin Ellis As a Youth Ambassador for UNICEF, Jaymee-Lin spoke at local schools and wrote blogs for the UNICEF website about anti-discrimination and bullying, to promote children’s rights. In 2012, Jaymee-Lin created a pilot program targeting bullying in schools, which she presented to 80 Year 6 students, and is now an annual program for local Year 7 students. Challenge & Change Corey Loader Corey is an inspirational young man who is challenged by Autism. Passionate about helping animals, he was determined to raise money for the Australia Zoo as part of the Readathon. Not only did Corey improve his own reading, he raised $2000 for the Wildlife Hospital at the Zoo. Sam Brown 26 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Jaymee-Lin Ellis Positive Youth Award Amber Barker-Lovett Amber is a proud Gunditjmara/Wemba Wemba woman, who is currently completing Year 12 at Phoenix College. She has been involved with indigenous mentoring program, AIME, for three years and is a mentor for other Aboriginal girls. Amber was instrumental in restarting the Namarilly Banarook Dance Group, which performs at community events in Ballarat, and she works as a project officer at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association. Young Carer Award Grace Davidson Fifteen-year-old Grace provides great amount of care for her mother and older sister dealing with their illnesses, and supports the family with domestic and self-care tasks. She does an amazing job as a young carer and we applaud all nominees for the support and care they give their families. Corey Loader Lamourette Folly Sporting Award Andrew Day Adult Ally Volunteer Roger Jeffrey A student at Federation University, Andrew has a leadership role with the FedUni Football Club and has worked tirelessly to create strong connections and opportunities for the club within the Ballarat community. He organised for the FedUni FC students to attend a leadership breakfast hosted by Leadership Ballarat & Sports Central, and encouraged the club to volunteer in Clean up Australia Day and Roosters Support 4 Cancer Golf Day. Andrew also supports and promotes women in AFL and has secured several sponsorship deals. Roger has been involved in the Scouts for more than 20 years, helping young people develop skills and confidence to grow into community leaders. The Scout Leader of the 7th Ballarat Scout group, Roger is now the Ballarat District Commissioner, working to promote and develop scouting in Ballarat. Performing Arts Award Sarah Perkins Sarah is a passionate and dedicated ballet dancer who has been recognised by The Australian Ballet School, winning every award in her age group at Royal South Street including the Classical and Pirouette Championships. She was also one for four Victorian dancers selected for the Queensland Ballet Senior Program. Youth Volunteer Award Jody Dontje Jody’s many volunteer roles including mentoring indigenous children through AIME, co-ordinating mentors at Federation University, supporting English language development of migrant/refugee students and tutoring in local schools. After volunteering in Nepal last year, Jody established the Help Nepal Appeal fundraising initiative which has raised more than $7,000 in the aftermath of this year’s devastating earthquakes. Youth Group & Project Award Happy Place – Centre for Multicultural Youth Happy Place is a creative space where young people of all backgrounds come together to participate in social and recreational activities. The program is completely led by local young people with the support of Centre for Multicultural Youth and Ballarat Regional Multicultural Centre staff. Happy Place is where young people of all nationalities and backgrounds can feel safe, make new friends and develop important new skills. The program is run at the Koorie Hub every second Monday afternoon, attracting more than 30 young people each session. Happy Place Roger Jeffrey Beth Burgess Adult Ally Worker Beth Burgess A teacher at Mount Clear College, Beth is recognised for supporting and encouraging her students to reach their full potential, and is a valued asset to the school. Nominated by students of Mount Clear College to show their appreciation for her commitment, Beth encourages students to participate and volunteer within the school and in the Ballarat community. City of Ballarat 12-17 Award Terrence Curwen-King An accomplished cricketer, Terrence is a volunteer member of the Headspace Ballarat Youth Reference Group and facilitates sporting activities for children at the YMCA. Terrence currently studies at the SEDA education program in Melbourne and has created a facebook page called Poetry4teens to share his poetry and encourage other young people to be their best. Recently, he led a youth training program on ambassadorship. City of Ballarat 18-25 Award Steffi Patience Steffi has volunteered with many local programs and community groups including the Salvation Army’s mentoring program ‘LARF’ and the Highlands LLEN mentoring program ‘MATES.' Studying a diploma in community services, Steffi also volunteers with Ballarat’s Survivors of Suicide (SoS) and the Wellbeing Wendouree group at Yuile Park Community, helping with its night kitchen and breakfast club. The Youth Councillors deemed Steffi a fantastic role model, and a great example of a young woman who has shown amazing resilience and great passion for the Ballarat community. Terrence Curwen-King Steffi Patience www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 27 COMMUNITY SAFETY AWARDS SAFETY COMMUNITY AWARDS Congratulations to the winners and nominees of the 2015 City of Ballarat Community Safety Awards. Every year, the Awards acknowledge the work of local individuals and groups to improve the safety of our community. For the first time in 2015, the Community Safety Innovation Prize of $500 was presented to one award-winning project. The inaugural recipient was the program of Community Safety Events presented by Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre with Neighbourhood Watch. The City of Ballarat 2015 Community Safety Award-winners are: Community Strengthening Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre with Neighbourhood Watch: Community Safety Events Child and Adolescent Safety Child and Family Services (CAFS): Ballarat Foster Carers Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre with Neighbourhood Watch has hosted a series of community safety events over the last three years, aimed to strengthen and build local communities and increase safety knowledge across a variety of issues. Foster care provides vulnerable children and young people a safe and nurturing environment in which to live when they cannot live at home because of concerns for their safety. Foster carers strengthen their community by putting up their hands to care for vulnerable children and they provide opportunities for safety, growth and development. Road Safety Carmen’s Road Safety Message Project Family Violence Prevention Child and Family Services (CAFS): Step Up Carmen’s Road Safety message educates drivers in the critical area of road use and road safety. Every year, founder John Maher shares his potentially life-saving presentation at 70 Victorian secondary schools, including Ballarat. A CAFS Ballarat program funded by the Ian Potter Foundation, Step Up addresses adolescent violence in the home with the aim of restoring family relationships through casework, counselling and group work. Ballarat’s model citizens Eight Ballarat students were recognised at the Order of Australia Association School Citizenship Awards at Town Hall on 1 October, 2015. In its fourth year, the Awards are presented by the Order of Australia Association Central Highlands Regional Group. Congratulations to the winners of the 2015 School Citizenship Awards: • Genevieve Chapman – Ballarat Clarendon College • Jake Cunningham – Ballarat Secondary College • Kaitlin Eden - Mount Clear College • Lillian Hearn – Ballarat Grammar School • Remie McMaster – Loreto College • Sophie Monkman – Ballarat Christian College • Hannah Patterson – Ballarat High School • Mitchell Tuddenham – St Patrick’s College 28 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Sports & Recreation Did you know? The City of Ballarat maintains more than 100 recreation and sporting facilities New outdoor water play under construction at Eureka Aquatic Centre IN THE WORKS Alfredton Recreation Reserve The project: Oval reconstruction and lighting upgrade Project status: Underway. Expected completion: oval reconstruction in April, 2016 and lighting upgrade in early 2016. Planning for future facility developments is also underway. Eastern Oval The project: Construction of new netball court with new fencing, lighting and shelter; new cricket practice nets and synthetic lawn bowls green. Project status: Underway. Expected completion by April, 2016. Project cost: $860,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat COMING SOON Project cost: $1.645 million, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Marty Busch Recreation Reserve The project: New junior netball court including shelter and lights, and Stage 1 power upgrade Alfredton Recreation Reserve Russell Square Recreation Reserve The project: Lighting upgrade to AFL and soccer training standards at south oval Project status: Underway. Expected completion by January, 2016. Project cost: $250,000: $170,000 from City of Ballarat and $80,000 from Sport and Recreation Victoria City Oval Bowling Club Project status: Works to commence in December. Netball court due for completion by April, 2016 and Stage 1 power upgrade by July, 2016. PLANNING OUR FUTURE Lawn Bowls Facilities Framework The project: Following extensive community consultation, the Framework was adopted by Ballarat City Council in September. View the final Lawn Bowls Facilities Framework at www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Western Oval Facilities Plan The project: A strategic plan for current and future uses of the reserve whilst protecting its character and enhancing its sporting, social, environmental and heritage values. Project status: Community consultation complete. Final plan expected in November. Project cost: $365,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Royal Park Facilities Plan Mount Clear Recreation Reserve The project: A strategic plan for current and future uses of Royal Park, Buninyong. The project: Pavilion extension and oval lighting upgrade Project status: To commence early 2016, for completion by April, 2016. Project cost: $655,000: $550,000 from the City of Ballarat and $100,000 from Sport and Recreation for change room development The project: Removal of existing synthetic green and construction of new natural turf green including new drainage and irrigation system Black Hill Mountain Bike Park Project status: Underway. Expected completion by March, 2016. Project status: Designs finalised, works to be delivered in stages commencing in 2016 Project cost: $180,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Project cost: $500,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat The project: Mountain bike park Project status: Community consultation complete, with 100 submissions received. Draft Plan currently being finalised, followed by another round of community feedback. Active Women and Girls Strategy The project: The City of Ballarat is the first regional Council in Victoria to develop an Active Women and Girls in Sport Strategy. The Strategy will explore opportunities to improve sport and physical activity participation for females in Ballarat. Project status: Data collection and research analysis has commenced. Final strategy to be complete in 2016. Sports & Recreation St Patrick's Point Reserve READY, SET, PLAY! The City of Ballarat has been busy during the cooler months upgrading existing facilities and constructing two new outdoor water play facilities – one at the Eureka Aquatic Centre and the other at Victory Park, Sebastopol. Both projects were fully funded in the City’s 2015/16 Budget. Black Hill residents will also welcome the re-opening of the outdoor pool with improved facilities including a new BBQ, shade and seating. COMPLETED Eureka Aquatic Centre The project: Kiosk and change room upgrade, removal of water slide for safety reasons, 50 metre pool and toddlers pool re-painted. Project cost: $200,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Midlands Outdoor Water Play Facility The project: New double BBQ, bike rack, additional shade, bench seating and additional bins. Project cost: $30,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Brown Hill Aquatic Centre Check out the new and upgraded City of Ballarat playspaces at: • Pennyweight Park Reserve Otway Street, Ballarat East • St Patrick’s Point Reserve, Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree Black Hill Aquatic Centre • Bogart Drive Reserve Bogart Drive, Wendouree The project: Upgrade for 2015 re-opening. Pool infrastructure, new BBQ, seating, new shade structure, new roof over change rooms and solar heating. • McNulty Drive Reserve McNulty Drive, Wendouree • Banyule Yaluk Reserve Hostein Close, Delacombe Project cost: $190,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat. • Lions Gate Reserve Corner of The Ridge, Adelphi Close and Shaftesbury Avenue, Delacombe IN THE WORKS • Alex Mills Reserve Corner of Lal Lal and Joseph streets, Canadian Sebastopol Outdoor Water Play The project: New Outdoor Water Play Facility Project cost: $500,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Eureka Aquatic Centre The project: New Outdoor Water Play Facility Project status: Underway and due for completion in December, 2015 Project cost: $550,000, fully funded by the City of Ballarat Did you know… All swimming pools and spas with a water depth of more than 30cm MUST have a permanent safety barrier, such as a fence with a lockable gate, and a building permit. This includes inflatable pools or wading pools that are capable of holding 30cm of water. Want to know more? The City of Ballarat’s Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barriers fact sheet has the answers to your questions, available online at www.ballarat.vic.gov.au or at the Building desk, City of Ballarat Customer Service, 25 Armstrong Street South, Ballarat. 30 www.ballarat.vic.gov.au All projects – a total of $235,000 - are fully funded by the City of Ballarat as part of its 2015/16 Budget. The project: New BBQ Project status: Underway and due for completion in December, 2015 Midlands Outdoor Water Play Facility Seven new and upgraded children’s playspaces will be ready for play by Christmas in Ballarat. BALLARAT AQUATIC AND LIFESTYLE CENTRE The City of Ballarat recently assumed management of the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre (BALC). There have been no changes to staff, services and programs at the Centre. As part of the changeover, the City of Ballarat is in the process of delivering a range of works to improve the visitor experience. Projects include: • Landscaping works • Gillies Street footpath • Tipping buckets repaired • Learn to Swim pool painted • Café food options have increased • Change room doors have been repaired Also, the new permanent grandstand at the 50 metre indoor pool was installed in September. To find out more about the services, programs and opening hours, visit the new website, www.ballarataquaticcentre.com, and follow the new facebook page, Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre. Cool off this Summer at outdoor pools and water play Looking for somewhere to keep cool this summer? Ballarat has more outdoor pools and water play facilities than ever, with options across the city for swimming and water fun. Note – The City of Ballarat Cold Weather Policy applies at Buninyong, Brown Hill and Black Hill Swimming Pools: these venues may open longer during hot weather and close during cold weather. OUTDOOR POOLS Venue Facilities Dates Opening Hours Eureka Aquatic Centre Stawell Street, Ballarat • 50m and 25m heated outdoor pools • New outdoor water play facility • Toddlers pool • BBQ and picnic facilities • Playground facilities Pool Open: Now to 30 April, 2016 November, 2015 & 12 to 30 April, 2016 Monday to Friday: 6.30 to 10.30am & 3.30 to 7.30pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 7.30am to 7.30pm Adult - $4 Concession - $3.50 Child - $3 Family - $12 Costs December to 11 April Monday to Friday: 6.30am to 7.30pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 7.30am to 7.30pm Season Pass Adult - $185 Concession - $170 Child - $138 Family - $323 (NB. Eureka Season Pass is valid for entry to the Buninyong and Black Hill Aquatic Centres) Closed Christmas Day Buninyong Aquatic Centre Forest Street, Buninyong • Solar-heated 25m outdoor pool • Toddlers pool • BBQ and picnic facilities Pool Open: 5 December, 2015 to 6 March, 2016 Outside school holidays Monday to Friday: 3 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 11am to 7pm Adult - $4 Concession - $3 Child - $2.50 Family - $11 School holidays Monday to Friday: 12 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 10am to 7pm Season Pass Adult - $77 Concession - $62 Child - $51 Family - $113 Closed Christmas Day Black Hill Aquatic Centre, Chisolm Street, Black Hill • Solar-heated 25m outdoor pool • Toddlers pool • Shade • BBQ and picnic facilities • Diving Board Pool Open: 5 December, 2015 to 6 March, 2016 Outside school holidays Monday to Friday: 3 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 11am to 7pm Diving Board Monday to Friday: 5 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 12 to 2.30pm & 4.30 to 7pm Adult - $4 Concession - $3 Child - $2.50 Family - $11 Season Pass Adult - $77 Concession - $62 Child - $51 Family - $113 School Holidays Monday to Friday: 12 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 10am to 7pm Diving Board Monday to Friday: 12 to 3pm & 4 to 7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: 12 to 2.30pm & 4.30 to 7pm Closed Christmas Day Brown Hill Aquatic Centre Humffray Street North, Brown Hill • 30m unheated outdoor pool • Toddlers pool • Waterslide • BBQ & picnic facilities Pool Open: 5 December, 2015 to 6 March, 2016 Owned by the City of Ballarat and managed by the Brown Hill Progress Association Outside School Holidays Every day, 2 to 7pm Adult - $4 Concession - $3 Child - $2.50 Family - $11 School Holidays Every day, 12 to 7pm Season Pass Adult - $77 Concession - $62 Child - $51 Family - $113 Closed Christmas Day Want to know more? Visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au OUTDOOR WATER PLAY FACILITIES Venue Facilities Dates Opening Hours Midlands Outdoor Water Play Facility Midlands Reserve, Doveton Street North, Ballarat North • BBQ • Bike rack • Shade • Seating Open: Now to 30 April, 2016 9am to 9pm every day FREE 9am to 9pm every day FREE Sebastopol Outdoor Water Play Facility Victory Park, Vickers Street, Sebastopol Eureka Aquatic Centre – Outdoor Water Play Facility Costs Closed Christmas Day Open: December, 2015 (date TBC) to 30 April, 2016 Closed Christmas Day Refer to Eureka Aquatic Centre Open: December, 2015 (date TBC) to 30 April, 2016 Eureka Aquatic Centre opening hours Eureka Aquatic Centre entry prices Closed Christmas Day Want to know more? Visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au 31 Help to settle your dispute Have you got a neighbourhood problem or are you in a conflict situation and don’t know how to resolve it? The Dispute Settlement Centre Victoria (DSCV) can help with: • Neighbourhood disputes involving fences, trees, animals, noise and drainage • Difficult or anti-social behaviour • Bullying – in person, online or by phone • Personal Safety Intervention Order matters • Contract or financial matters • Property damage/interference • Use of public spaces e.g. placement of rubbish bins, parking, nature strips. The DSCV provides a free, informal, impartial and accessible dispute resolution service that is confidential. The service is provided by the Victorian Department of Justice & Regulation. Want to know more? Visit the Ballarat Justice Service Centre, 206 Mair Street Ballarat; call 4301 7000 or 1300 372 888; or visit www.disputes.vic.gov.au Welcome to Ballarat Ballarat is one of Australia’s fastest growing cities and we welcome all our new residents. Sign up for the City of Ballarat’s New Residents Program to receive a welcome booklet with community information, vouchers to local businesses and invitations to New Resident functions at Town Hall. Are you a long-time Ballarat resident? When you meet a new resident – perhaps a co-worker, sports club member or neighbour – be sure to tell them about the City of Ballarat’s New Residents Program. Want to know more? Visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au or visit Customer Service, The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong Street North. Front cover: Ballarat Beat Rockabilly Festival, Ballarat Beer Festival, Water Play and IRONMAN – just a few of the great events this summer in the city. IRONMAN photo courtesy of Delly Carr. CONNECT WITH US Customer Service: 5320 5500 National Relay Service Telephone: 133 677 (Quote 5320 5500) Customer Service Email: [email protected] In person: Customer Service Centre, The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong Street Sth fb.com/ballaratcity @cityofballarat @cityofballarat www.ballarat.gov.au At the time myBallarat went to print, the 2016 City of Ballarat Mayor and Deputy Mayor were not determined.