June 2014 - July 2014 - Moonee Valley City Council

valley
view
June/July 2014
East West Link
won’t impact
me, will it?
p5
More than
just recycling
p7
Classic movie
screenings
p11
Message from the Mayor
In May I had the pleasure of attending the
National Volunteer Week lunch to recognise and
thank the volunteers who do so much for our
community. Council alone has over 400 dedicated
volunteers and a further 300 who volunteer at
one-off events. Without them, we simply would
not be able to provide the breadth of services,
programs and events that we deliver. Again, I
thank you.
I attended commemorations on ANZAC Day
and was moved at the courage and dedication
to our country shown by our service men and
women. I also paused to remember those who are
no longer with us. Each year I come away from
commemorations such as these reminded about
how lucky we are to live in Australia and how
grateful we all should be to those who serve
our country.
From 6 to 13 July we celebrate NAIDOC Week.
This year’s theme is Serving Country: Centenary
and Beyond. Council will be holding events that
highlight and recognise the role Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders have played in shaping our
identity and pause to reflect on their sacrifice.
I encourage you all to attend.
The Mayor’s Urban Ecology Photo Competition
is still open, so take a photo of your backyard,
a park or reserve, waterways or Moonee Valley
streetscapes and enter today. We’ve had some
fabulous entries so far and I can’t wait to see
the rest.
The 2014 Spirit of Moonee Valley nominations will
open shortly. This is your opportunity to help us
recognise Moonee Valley’s unsung heroes.
See page 8 for details.
Council meeting dates
Public Forum
Tuesday, 10 June
Public Forum
Tuesday, 8 July
Ordinary Council Meeting
Tuesday, 24 June
Ordinary Council Meeting
Tuesday, 22 July
Public Forums start at 6pm. Ordinary Council Meetings start at 7pm.
Public Forums and Council Meetings take place at the Civic Centre,
9 Kellaway Avenue, Moonee Ponds. Access is through the Pascoe
Vale Road entrance.
In April, Council consulted and held information
sessions about the new residential zones to explain
what the zones are and how they are proposed
to be applied in Moonee Valley. The consultation
period has now closed and we are waiting for a
response from the Minister for Planning.
Council officers attended the East West Link
Advisory Committee hearings in April and we
continue to advocate to achieve the best possible
outcome for our community.
There are still many issues in the Moonee Valley
Racing Club master plan that need to be worked
through and, at the time of going to print, Council
was in the process of finalising a Memorandum
of Understanding with all parties to help ensure
there is a clear process going forward.
The proposed development of two sites at
Flemington Racecourse will have a significant
impact on Moonee Valley. Council is not the
planning authority for these sites but we will be
working both to keep the community informed
and advocate on their behalf as this proposal
progresses.
Council has recently completed the draft Heritage
Gap Study, a background research document
on places and precincts in Moonee Valley which
could be of heritage significance. Residents will be
informed when this is on consultation later this
year. When the study is on consultation, Council
wants to hear from all residents, owners and
occupiers to see what they think about the study
and if they think their property has heritage value
or not and why. We also want to know what you
think are the heritage priorities for Moonee Valley.
Your feedback can help myself and my fellow
Councillors to understand what the community
wants in terms of future heritage protection.
On a final note, the Essendon Historical Society
is fundraising to restore the Moonee Ponds
Courthouse which was built in 1890. I encourage
residents to ‘sponsor a tile’ in memory of a family
member or colleague who lived or worked in
Moonee Valley. The tiles will be laid in a garden
setting at the courthouse, and some famous locals
in the areas of education, arts, sports, community,
law and politics will also be recognised. Email
[email protected] for more information.
Cr Jan Chantry
Moonee Valley Mayor
Moonee Valley City Council • 9 Kellaway Avenue, Moonee Ponds Victoria 3039 • PO Box 126, Moonee Ponds Victoria 3039
Telephone 03 9243 8888 • Facsimile 03 9377 2100 • Website mvcc.vic.gov.au • Email [email protected]
3
Progress on new zones MVRC update
The State Government has introduced new residential
planning rules (or zones) across Victoria, which aim to
strengthen controls on the type of development that is
allowed to occur in your street and neighbourhood.
All councils were required to develop maps which showed
how the new zones would apply. The State Government
requires inner urban areas like Moonee Valley to take on a
percentage of Melbourne’s population growth and therefore
have a diversity of housing. On the map we needed to show
where we could accommodate some of this growth, and we
consulted with you on this in March and April.
A State Government Standing Advisory Committee then
looked at Council’s map and community submissions and
made recommendations to the Minister for Planning.
The same process was used by a number of councils in
Victoria. We are expecting the Minister to make a decision
about the zones by Tuesday, 1 July.
We made a real effort to allocate as much Neighbourhood
Residential Zone as possible in Moonee Valley (75 per cent)
and dramatically limit the Residential Growth Zone. Our
reasoning for this is that a lot of growth and development
is occurring and will continue to occur in commercial areas
and not just in residential areas. Regardless, the Minister
may still decide that as a council we did not allow for
enough growth in Moonee Valley. The Minister makes the
final decision and has the ability to change our map.
In April Council adopted several plans to protect the
heritage on the Moonee Valley racecourse site. These
plans are the Moonee Valley Racecourse Incorporated
Plan – Conservation Policy and Permit Exemptions,
and the Moonee Valley Racecourse Conservation
Management Plan.
At the time of printing, Council had written to the Minister
for Planning to prepare, adopt and approve applying the
Heritage Overlay for the Moonee Valley racecourse site
(Amendment C124).
Features on the racecourse site that are considered to be
of primary significance (meaning that a planning permit
has to be obtained before any building or works associated
with these places) are the Club Secretary’s House and the
S.R Burston Stand. Also, the Moonee Valley Racecourse in
general is of significance, including several buildings and
features such as the Main Tote, horse stall (‘birdcage’) area
(including several trees and the perimeter fence), Alister
Clark Garden, Manikato Garden and the racetrack.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/mvrc for more information.
For more information on the zones visit
mvcc.vic.gov.au/newzones. For more information about
why Moonee Valley is changing and growing visit
mvcc.vic.gov.au/growthofMV
Budget update
Thank you to those who provided feedback on our
proposed Annual Budget for 2014/15. Submissions
closed on Tuesday, 27 May.
Councillors are now working with staff to review the feedback
received and prepare our budget for next financial year, which
will be presented to Council at the Ordinary Meeting on
Tuesday, 24 June.
Through the budget process, Councillors determine how
much funding is required to deliver community services,
manage assets as well as upgrade and replace infrastructure.
Some of these expenses can be paid for by user-based fees,
borrowings and government grants. The outstanding balance
is collected in rates.
The 2014/15 rates notices will be mailed to residents in
August. Rates are payable in quarterly instalments and the
first instalment is due on Tuesday, 30 September.
Your rates notice will continue to include the Fire Services
Property Levy. Council collects this money on behalf of the
State Government.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/budget for more information.
4
Beyond the Surface
6 June – 27 July, Incinerator Gallery,
180 Holmes Road, Moonee Ponds
An art exhibition showcasing recent works by Indigenous
artists from south-eastern Australia.
US Forces, Peter Waples-Crowe, 2013, part of Indigenous Voices
at the Incinerator Gallery.
Walking the talk!
To recognise and celebrate National Reconciliation Week
(27 May to 3 June) and NAIDOC Week (6 to 13 July),
Council is holding a number of events and activities
for the community to get involved.
Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn
about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories
and cultures, reflect on our shared history and join the
reconciliation conversation. The theme for 2014 is ‘Let’s Walk
the Talk’. Visit reconciliation.org.au/nrw to find out more.
NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander cultures and people and an opportunity to
acknowledge and appreciate their contributions. The theme for
2014 is ‘Serving Country: Centenary and Beyond’, honouring
all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who
have fought in defence of our country. It is an opportunity
for us to pay our respects and reflect on their sacrifice to our
nation. Visit naidoc.org.au for more information.
Council is in the final year of its current Reconciliation
Policy (2010-14) and is committed to ongoing reconciliation
activities. We will be working in partnership with our
community and organisations to review and update the
policy, along with developing an action plan for 2015. To
get involved in conversations about reconciliation, contact
our Community Planning Officer on 9243 8888 or email
[email protected]
To view our Reconciliation Policy and 2014 Action Plan
visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/reconciliation
Cultural Heritage Tour
Wednesday, 11 June, 9am-1pm
Wurundjeri Elder will lead a tour of Brimbank Park and the
Maribyrnong River. Places are limited, contact the Community
Planning Officer on 9243 8888 to register your interest.
• Opening night – Friday, 6 June, 6pm-8pm
Exhibition opening with free wine and snacks.
• Curator talk – Sunday, 29 June, 1-2pm
Hannah Presley and some participating artists will discuss
the themes and artwork in the exhibition.
• Storytelling and Dreamtime - July school holidays
Children will be taken on a guided tour of the art
exhibition and learn about the stories and culture of
Australia’s first people.
• Indigenous Poetry and Spoken Word - Friday,
18 July, 6pm-8pm
Come and experience an intimate night of poetry and
spoken word.
For more information about the Beyond the Surface events
visit incineratorgallery.com.au or call 8325 1750.
NAIDOC Week flag-raising event
Tuesday, 8 July, 9.30am-11am, Clocktower Centre,
750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds
Family fun event including music, kids’ activities and food.
Contact the Community Planning Officer on 9243 8888 or
[email protected] to RSVP.
Cultural awareness training
Tuesday, 12 August, 9.30am-4.30pm,
Clocktower Centre
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness
training with places available for community members
and representatives from local groups. Contact the
Community Planning Officer on 9243 8888 or email
[email protected] to find out more or to book.
Share your stories!
We are collecting stories from local people that celebrate
Aboriginal culture and history and the achievements
of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
members. These stories will be published in Council
publications. Contact the Community Planning Officer on
9243 8888 or email [email protected] if you
have a story to tell.
Moonee Valley City Council respectfully acknowledges the
traditional custodians of this land – the Wurundjeri people
of the Kulin Nation, their spirits, ancestors, elders and
community members past and present.
5
News in brief
Our recent achievements
• Council endorsed the Diversity, Access and Equity
Policy – visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/diversity to take a look.
• We decorated over 400 runners in our inaugural
Colour-Fest Run.
• We held the Moonee Valley Leisure Challenge, running
35 activities over 32 days with nearly 800 people
involved.
• We introduced two new ways to pay your rates –
QR code and BPAY View.
• We held our annual Women in Business lunch with
guest speaker Jane Caro wowing over 320 people.
• Our Men’s Shed held an art exhibition at Avondale
Heights Library and Learning Centre to showcase the
art that they made in workshops.
• We celebrated World Autism Awareness Day by
lighting up the Clocktower Centre for ‘Light It Up Blue’.
Economic Development Strategy
Council recently endorsed our new Economic
Development Strategy. The strategy is designed
to provide a clear plan for sustainable, long-term
economic growth in the area and to attract new
investment, create employment opportunities and deliver
community services. With the announcement of the new
employment precinct at Essendon Fields and Airport
West earlier this year, we’re off to a great start!
We’d like to thank those who have contributed to the
strategy to date. However, we need your continued
support in its delivery so together we can put Moonee
Valley at the forefront of economic growth.
East West Link won’t
impact me, will it?
Do you travel into the city by car?
Yes? Then your commute time into the city will increase
if East West Link goes ahead, with some traffic analysis
indicating travel during peak hour could increase by as
much as 37 per cent from some areas of Moonee Valley.
Do you use a bus or tram?
Yes? Then you can expect to spend more time getting to
your destination if East West Link goes ahead, with local
roads due to be swamped with many additional cars –
causing delays to trams and buses across Moonee Valley.
Do you use our bike paths?
Yes? Then your regular ride is likely to be impacted during
construction and beyond – with the future of bike paths
across Moonee Valley, especially the Moonee Ponds Creek
Shared Path, at risk of major disruption should East West
Link go ahead.
Are you involved in sporting clubs?
Get your kids Fit2Drive!
Yes? Many of Moonee Valley’s sporting clubs will be impacted
during construction of East West Link and beyond. Whether
it’s through noise and dust, construction vehicles accessing
the toll road, or through the relocation of other clubs onto
their grounds – there’s the potential that every sports club
across Moonee Valley will be impacted in some way or another.
Council is helping schools in Moonee Valley host
Fit2Drive half-day workshops for year 11 students.
Do we really need another toll road?
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/business to find out how Council
can support your business.
Fit2Drive is about changing attitudes and behaviours
- not teaching driving skills. The program focuses on
enabling young people to make good decisions when
faced with risky driving situations, whether as
a passenger or a driver.
Ask your child’s school if they are hosting the Fit2Drive
course and if they’re not – ask them to!
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/f2d or call 9243 8888 for more
information.
With all major statewide projects there are winners and
losers; however, when you compare this project to other
major infrastructure projects on the cards, such as the
Melbourne Metro project, Council cannot understand the
State Government’s justification for putting this project first.
Nor can Council understand why the State Government has
an advertising campaign promoting the project, when experts
do not agree about the impacts, both positive and negative.
Find out how Council has been advocating on behalf of
residents in the East West Link process at
mvcc.vic.gov.au/eastwestlink
6
Gaming Policy
Council has developed a Gaming Policy which aims to
minimise negative impacts associated with any future
gaming venues or changes to existing venues on the
Moonee Valley community.
The City of Moonee Valley ranks fourth highest in Victoria in
relation to losses via gaming machines. In 2012-13 a total of
$71,499,311 was lost, which is equivalent to $773 per adult.
Problem gambling can have a devastating impact on
the health and wellbeing of individuals, their friends and
family. At the same time, many residents and visitors enjoy
responsible gaming for entertainment, and local community
groups often benefit from some of the income that venues
reinvest in the community.
The policy, which was endorsed by Council in February this
year, sets guidelines for appropriate areas, sites and venues
for electronic gaming machines should a planning permit
application be received. It has no bearing on the number
of gaming machines allowed, which is regulated by the
Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation.
Currently Moonee Valley is at capacity, with all of the 746
licences allocated across 11 venues. Therefore the only way
that a venue may increase the number of gaming machines,
or establish a new venue, would be to transfer them from
another venue.
In this context, the Gaming Policy is an important proactive
policy for the future in the event that Council receives a
planning permit application for gaming machines.
It is designed to achieve a balance in the long-term between
protecting vulnerable communities and problem gamblers,
enabling a choice and diversity of entertainment for the
community, and protecting residential amenity.
To finalise the process and ensure that it has weight in the
eyes of the State Government, Council needs to implement
the policy into the Moonee Valley Planning Scheme.
To do this, Council is undertaking a process called a Planning
Scheme Amendment. This particular Amendment is called
C140 and involves a round of community consultation.
This process also presents an opportunity for interested
parties to have their views heard by an independent panel
appointed by the Minister for Planning.
Amendment C140 is on consultation until Friday, 6 June.
For more information about how to have your say visit
mvcc.vic.gov.au/gamingpolicy, email
[email protected] or call 9243 8888.
Community Groups
Conference
Council is holding its first Moonee Valley Community
Groups Conference at the Clocktower Centre,
750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds on
Saturday, 28 June, 9.45am-2.30pm.
Network with members of other community groups,
witness a keynote presentation about turning ideas into
reality, and see the launch of the Moonee Valley Community
Grants short film. Lunch is included.
This event is free for people involved in small
community groups and organisations. Please email
[email protected] or call 9243 8888 to register.
Community Grants
Our 2015 Community Grants program is just around
the corner so it’s time for you and your group to start
thinking about next year’s project!
The four grant categories are:
• Social Support: projects to support social and
recreational activities run by volunteers.
• Community Development: projects contributing to
Moonee Valley as a vibrant and diverse, friendly and safe
place that provides opportunities for all.
• Arts, Culture and Events: arts, cultural or heritage
activities that encourage participation.
• Sustainable Environment: for projects that contribute
to enhanced environmental outcomes and foster
environmental stewardship in Moonee Valley.
Examples of projects funded in 2014:
• A series of self defence workshops held at community
facilities throughout Moonee Valley.
• Fortnightly activities for senior women from culturally and
linguistically diverse backgrounds to connect and express
themselves.
• Design and implementation of a ‘frog bog’ to increase
biodiversity and provide a natural habitat at a community
garden, and the delivery of a related community education
program.
• A Chinese and Italian Music and Food Autumn Festival.
To ensure you are notified of key dates, add your group
to our mailing list. Contact our Community Support and
Development Officer at [email protected]
or 9243 8888. Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/communitygrants to
check for updates.
7
Improving walking
and cycling
Walking and cycling or even using public transport
are great ways to get fit, be active and stay connected.
You can also help reduce traffic and pollution.
In March Council resolved to start implementing a new
walking and cycling route along the Craigieburn Rail
Corridor between Essendon and Newmarket train stations.
The route aims to encourage people to walk and cycle by
making it easier and safer to do local trips without a car,
connect to public transport for longer trips, cross busy roads
like Maribyrnong Road and commute into the city.
Highlights of the new route will be:
• treatments to allow cyclists to go both ways on some
one way sections
• bicycle parking at stations
• bicycle symbols and shared lane markings on local roads
• pram ramps
• wayfinding signs with distances to local destinations
• new pedestrian crossings
Development of the route is a long-term project for Council
and timings are subject to funding. Initial work will include
planning and implementing crossing treatments on Kent
Street, station bicycle parking, a one way bicycle lane on
Queens Avenue, as well as treatments to allow bicycles to
travel in both directions on Sherbourne Street.
More than just
recycling
Do you have an unwanted or damaged fridge or
washing machine sitting around? Want to recycle it for
free?
Council is proud to support Kids off the Kerb, a notfor-profit organisation that provides training and work
opportunities for disadvantaged and at risk young people.
Kids off the Kerb offers residents a free home collection
of unwanted, damaged and end-of-life white goods.
Once collected, the goods will either be repaired and sold
or salvaged for parts and recycled.
This program provides invaluable training and skills to
young people. It’s also a great opportunity for residents to
purchase white goods at affordable prices.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/crc for more information.
To book a collection call Kids off the Kerb on 9918 7999
or visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/recycling for more information.
Structure plans
completed
more control over how these areas grow and change and
ensure future development is appropriately located, designed
and meets the needs of current and future community.
In a significant step forward for long-term planning in
Moonee Valley, the Planning Scheme Amendment C117,
which implements the North Essendon and Keilor Road
Structure Plans and Built Form Guidelines, was formally
introduced into the Moonee Valley Planning Scheme in
April after being gazetted by the Minister for Planning.
North Essendon and Keilor Road are both State Government
designated activity centres. The State Government requires
activity centres to operate as vibrant hubs containing a mix of
dwellings, shops, services and public transport as well as to play
a role in housing some of Melbourne’s growing population.
Council’s role is to develop long-term plans for these centres,
such as structure plans and built form guidelines, to provide
The structure plans are strategic documents to ensure that
growth and development in North Essendon and Keilor
Road is guided and appropriate. The built form guidelines
outline a series of specific design objectives, preferred
maximum building heights and building setbacks for any new
development in these activity centres.
The amendment enables these documents to be used as tools
by Council when making decisions on planning applications
for new developments in North Essendon and Keilor Road.
The process to develop these documents started in 2008
and involved extensive input and involvement from the local
community.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/krnesp for more information.
8
Support learning
through FILLS!
Do you have a passion for educating young people?
Council is seeking community members to volunteer for
Flemington Community Centre’s Family Inclusive Language
and Learning Support (FILLS) program.
2013 Citizen of the Year Yvonne Kernan.
2014 Spirit of Moonee
Valley Awards
Nominations for Council’s 15th annual Spirit of Moonee
Valley Community Awards open in June.
Nominate someone who you believe deserves formal
recognition for their contributions to the local community.
The FILLS program provides free tuition and educational
support for primary and secondary school students and
their families each Wednesday night during the school term.
To continue this important program, Council relies on a team
of dedicated volunteers who have a passion for making
learning fun, and for connecting and engaging with the
students and their families.
Applicants must successfully complete a Working with
Children check and Police check in order to be considered.
So if you’re a teacher who works part time or is retired,
you’re studying teaching or you’re just passionate about
supporting learning in our local community, contact the
Flemington Community Centre on 8325 1800 or email
[email protected] to register your interest.
2013 Citizen of the Year Yvonne Kernan was recognised
for the work that she has done at the Ascot Vale Residents
Association. Her selfless work has given voice to individuals,
families and groups of residents on critical planning matters
and local policy development. Yvonne is involved with the
Essendon Legal Service Committee and a member of the
Essendon Historical Society.
Nomination forms will be available from Moonee Valley
libraries, the Civic Centre and online at mvcc.vic.gov.au/spirit
For more information contact our Arts and Culture
department on 9243 8888.
Community programs
Did you know Council’s Flemington and Bowes Avenue
Community Centres offer term programs including a
variety of learning and recreational classes? They’re a
lot of fun and a great, affordable way to pick up new
skills and meet people in your local community!
At Flemington Community Centre, classes for toddlers include
Shake, Rattle and Roll, a fun dance and music program. For
children (6 to 12), there is Young Women’s Hip Hop dance and
Monday After School Activities including art and sports.
Thursday night’s Youth Open House is a chance for teens to
gather, relax and make new friends. Adult classes include art,
computer, exercise and dance classes. They also include a
Boot Camp fitness program with a qualified trainer for those
wanting to get fit! Call 8325 1800 to find out more.
Bowes Avenue Community Centre offers fitness, photography,
sewing, art, craft, computer and skill sharing classes. New
programs this term include Dance Fitness on Mondays and
Yogalates on Wednesdays. Call 8325 1890 to enquire.
Flemington Community Centre is located at 25 Mt Alexander
Road, Flemington.
Bowes Avenue Community Centre is located at 27-31
Bowes Avenue, Airport West.
9
Flemington Racecourse
development
In October 2013 the Victorian Racing Club (VRC) and
Greenland announced their plan to develop two parcels
of land at Flemington Racecourse.
The sites are on Epsom Road, which sits in the City of
Melbourne, and on Leonard Crescent and Fisher Parade, which
sit across both Moonee Valley and Melbourne.
Reporting back on
leisure
Over summer Council asked the community for input,
ideas and feedback to inform two long-term planning
documents; the Sports Development Plan and the
Aquatics and Leisure Centre Plan.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the consultation
process and submitted surveys.
Council is now using the ideas and feedback submitted by the
community to develop draft versions of these documents,
which will be placed on consultation later this year.
Did you know that Council needs to spend around $300,000
every year for basic maintenance and upgrade works on East
Keilor and Ascot Vale Leisure Centres just to keep the centres
functioning well? Did you know that it costs over $1.5 million
to build a new sporting pavilion, and more than $250,000
for two tennis courts?
Sports and leisure facilities are a costly service for Council
to run and maintain both in the short- and long-term.
Council spends millions of dollars each year upgrading,
maintaining and building sporting and leisure facilities for
the community, including pavilions, bike paths, walking
paths, leisure centres and pools. Although the investment
for Council in sports and leisure facilities is big, we know
it is an essential component to creating active and healthy
communities.
The VRC and Greenland have been working on a development
concept for the two sites and, at the time of going to print, were
expected to submit this to the Minister for Planning shortly.
It was announced in August 2013 that the Minister for Planning
would be the responsible authority for planning decisions
regarding the land within Moonee Valley, as he already is for
the land within Melbourne.
This means Council will not be the decision-making body for
any planning applications to develop this land.
Development at both of these sites will have a significant
impact on Moonee Valley residents, particularly in relation
to traffic, parking, community services and open space.
Council continues to advocate to the Minister for Planning
and the VRC on behalf of our residents in an effort to ensure
that the development concepts are well-planned and take
into account the potential impacts on the current community,
as well as those on cultural heritage, social and recreation,
transport and flora and fauna.
We have been reassured by the Minister for Planning that
we will be consulted and kept informed.
We also expect residents will have the opportunity to have their
say and attend information sessions organised by the VRC and
Greenland during a consultation period in the coming months.
Council will provide a submission to this consultation on behalf
of the Moonee Valley community and is committed to helping
residents stay informed and understand the process.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/flemracecourse for more information.
Why is this type of development happening in Moonee Valley?
Why is Moonee Valley changing? Find out why and watch our
video at mvcc.vic.gov.au/growthofMV
10
Lunch series to
support carers
Council is planning a series of weekly lunches to provide
carers with a break from their caring role.
Planning for children’s
services
Council has been working with the community to
develop a revised Municipal Early Years Plan (MEYP).
This plan sets out how we support children (0-12 years)
to develop, learn and grow. It will look at how we meet
the needs of families now and into the future.
Part of our consultation involved working with children.
Below are some of the things they told us about growing
up in Moonee Valley:
• Anthony, aged 10, likes to ride his scooter with friends in
his street with one end closed off
• Robert, aged 9, likes to play in Woodlands Park, Essendon
as it is large and he can do his own thing
• Daemon, aged 5, likes to climb the rope wall at Victory
Park, Ascot Vale
• Bea, aged 8, would like to see a large swimming pool in
Avondale Heights
• Curtis, aged 5, would like to see a beach in Moonee Valley
Caring can be very demanding and it’s quite common for
carers to neglect their own health and wellbeing because
they are so focused on the person they care for. The
Australian Unity Wellbeing index reports carers as having
the lowest level of wellbeing of any large group measured.
The Carer Respite Lunch program aims to provide
participants with an opportunity to take some time for
themselves and to enjoy lunch with other carers. It will
give carers the chance to meet new friends with shared
experiences who can understand and support them.
While the participants are out for lunch, Council Direct Care
staff will provide support for the people they care for.
This is one of a range of programs Council delivers aligned
to our Healthy Ageing Strategy to ensure residents who
are aged and/or who have a disability, and their carers,
can remain active and connected within their community.
To express your interest in participating in this series of
lunches, or to find out about other services Council’s
Aged and Disability Services provide, please call Council’s
Healthy Ageing Officer on 9243 8712 or email
[email protected]
The previous MEYP focused on developing integrated
and connected services like our new Milleara, Avondale
Heights and Strathmore children’s centres, promoting child
friendly spaces, having responsive and accessible services,
strengthening partnerships with community and meeting
the needs of local families.
The draft MEYP is scheduled to go on consultation in late
July. Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/meyp to find out more.
Learner driver
mentors wanted
L2P is a VicRoads initiative that assists young learner drivers
aged 16 to 21 years who face significant barriers to achieving
on-road driving experience, to be matched with fully licenced
community volunteers who become L2P mentors.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Our Youth Services team
is recruiting for mentors now. So if you’re available for one
hour each week and interested in supporting a local young
person to get the 120 hours of driving experience required
before going for their probationary licence, then apply today!
The L2P program incorporates professional driving lessons
for the learner driver to ensure they have the basic driving
skills and knowledge prior to the L2P sessions.
Upon successful selection, L2P mentors will undertake
formal training before being matched with a local young
person for driving sessions. All sessions take place in the
L2P car.
For more information or to register as a mentor visit
mvcc.vic.gov.au/l2p or call 9243 8888.
11
Classic movie
screenings
In partnership with Vic’s Flicks, Council’s Aged and
Disability Services runs free monthly classic movie
screenings for residents who are aged and/or have
a disability, as well as their carers.
Movies from a range of different genres are screened
each month, including musicals, westerns, dramas,
comedies and action adventure films.
All sessions are held at Burley Griffin Neighbourhood
Centre, Park Drive (off The Crossway), Keilor East.
Screenings start at 1.30pm.
• Phantom of the Opera
Thursday, 19 June
• Arsenic and Old Lace
Thursday, 17 July
• The King and I
Thursday, 21 August
• River of No Return
Thursday, 18 September
• High Society
Thursday, 23 October
• An Affair to Remember
Thursday, 20 November
Bookings are required as spaces are limited – please
call Council’s Healthy Ageing Officer on 9243 8712 or
email [email protected] to book at least one
week prior.
Transport services, carer support and community meals
are also available upon request for a fee.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/connected for more information.
Parkinson’s support movie
screening
In partnership with Essendon Parkinson’s Support Group
we are holding an additional classic movie screening for
residents who have Parkinson’s disease and their carers.
The screening will take place at Burley Griffin
Neighbourhood Centre from 12.30pm on Wednesday, 9
July. The film for this session will be High Society.
Transport services, carer support and lunch are available
upon request for a fee.
To book your place at this session, please call Council’s
Healthy Ageing Officer on 9243 8712 or email
[email protected]
Youth events
Calling young film-makers
Moonee Valley Youth Services short film festival, Fling Fest,
is now accepting entries from young film-makers aged 12 to
25 years from across Moonee Valley.
Films can be submitted into two categories, Short Film and
Video Art, and have the chance to be screened at the 10th
anniversary event night. Finalist films are judged by a panel
of industry experts and go in the running to win major prizes.
Fling Fest provides an opportunity for young people to share
their views on social issues and engage in an event that
showcases their talents to their community.
The Youth Services team is available to explore ideas with
young people interested in entering a film.
Entry forms are available at mvcc.vic.gov.au/flingfest, or for
more information contact Youth Services on 9243 8888 or
[email protected]
Battle of the Bands
Moonee Valley Youth Services is hosting a FReeZA Push
Start Battle of the Bands Regional Heat.
FReeZA Push Start is a statewide Battle of the Bands
competition that showcases young and emerging Victorian
performers aged 12 to 25 years.
The event will see five talented acts from Moonee Valley
battle it out for a chance to play at the regional finals. The
regional winners then go on to compete for the grand prize
on stage at the annual Push Over Festival in March next
year at Abbotsford Convent.
Bands, producers, singers and DJs are all encouraged to
enter Battle of the Bands.
Please contact the Youth Services team on 9243 8888
or [email protected] for further information and
an entry form.
12
Adapting
to our
changing
world
World Population Day
– 11 July
Water-wise planning
Many of us love walking, jogging or cycling along
our urban waterways and we feel lucky to have
these spaces in our city. But whenever we develop
hard, impervious surfaces – such as roads, roofs and
pavements – we threaten the health of our waterways
by increasing the volume, frequency and pollution of
stormwater runoff which flows into them.
Is seven billion people a lot of people?
To help manage these urban impacts and make better use
of our stormwater, we have a leading program which builds
Water Sensitive Urban Design assets such as constructed
wetlands, raingardens and stormwater harvesting schemes.
Once upon a time our world seemed infinitely big.
While the size of the world hasn’t changed, the world’s
human population has quadrupled in the last 100 years
and reached an estimated seven billion in 2012. Sounds
like a big number, but just how big is it?
But statewide planning regulations have not applied to most
of the smaller-scale, infill development occurring in Moonee
Valley and so the waterway impacts of our increasing
development density have not been effectively managed...
up until now!
We were doing a little calculation on the back of an
envelope over coffee one day and trying to picture the
world’s population of seven billion people.
Council has introduced a new Stormwater Management
Policy into the Moonee Valley Planning Scheme which
requires new buildings or extensions over 50m2 to include
stormwater management measures (such as rainwater tanks
or raingardens) and meet best practice standards.
• Seven billion is seven thousand million. If all those people
stood side-by-side holding hands, the line of people
would stretch for about 9,000,000,000 metres.
Yes, that’s 9 million kilometres!
• The Earth’s circumference is 40,000 kilometres so this
line of people would go around the earth 220 times!
• If you were to fly in a 747 aeroplane past all those people
in a line it would take just over one year!
• If you were to drive past all those people in a line at
100km/h it would take 10 years’ non-stop driving.
• And more environmentally, if you were to cycle past all
those people in a line at 25km/h it would take 40 years.
This is a significant step in protecting the health of our local
waterways, improving water efficiency and making our city
a more enjoyable place to live.
More information can be found at mvcc.vic.gov.au/WSUD
So is 7,000,000,000 a big number of people? Yes, it is
enormous! Of course, all those people need a place to
call home, land to grow food, oceans to fish, some fuel to
cook and a shirt on their back. These resources need other
resources and so on until, you find, there are not many
natural resources left in the world which are not devoted to
or affected by humans.
In Moonee Valley, our current population of 107,000 is due
to grow another 12,500 by 2031. We will need to reconsider
the ways we value our resources, live locally, prevent
waste, do business and protect our valuable urban ecology.
Council’s City Sustainability Policy provides guidance and
actions to adapt to the challenges of increased population.
To read more about this policy and what you can do to
make a difference locally, visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/csp
Join our environment mailing list – Send your email address to Council
13
Working to
change our
community
Zero carbon kids
Come along and help us plant:
Sunday, 27 July, 10am–12 noon
Afton Street Conservation Park, Afton Street, Aberfeldie
In addition to community planting facilitated by Council,
friends groups will be hosting their own planting events.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/environment for a full list of groups
and events.
We are excited to announce that all our childcare,
preschool and child health centres are now carbon
neutral. This means they do not contribute any
damaging greenhouse emissions to the atmosphere.
This has been achieved through a committed program to
install energy saving equipment such as solar power and
solar hot water systems where appropriate. We have also
purchased carbon offsets towards the Tasmanian Native
Forest Protection project to cover the remaining greenhouse
emissions that could not be avoided.
We have a number of other carbon neutral buildings in
Moonee Valley including Essendon Traffic School and
Flemington Community Centre. These initiatives are all
part of Council’s aim to reduce our greenhouse emissions
to zero net by 2020.
National Tree Day
Each year Council works with our local communities to
enhance our parklands and urban ecology. Community
planting events are a great opportunity for Council
and friends groups to promote sustainable gardening
practices and to demonstrate mulching, native plant
selection and water conservation techniques. Local
communities get their hands dirty by joining in and
enjoying the surrounding environment.
Making a
change at
home
Get a green home
To celebrate our childcare, preschool and child health
centres becoming carbon neutral we’d like to help you
make your home carbon neutral too!
We’ve created some activity sheets with a collection of tips
helping to make your home carbon neutral. These sheets
are aimed at helping families and young children to make
a difference to the environment at home.
Get snapping for your
chance to win!
We have been receiving some amazing images from
the community capturing the urban ecology of
Moonee Valley in our parks, streetscapes, backyards
and waterways. If you would like to get involved for a
chance to win an Apple iPad mini it’s not too late, just
visit mvcc.vic.gov/EcoPhoto for more information and
lodge your entry before 5pm on Monday, 16 June.
The competition also coincides with the consultation of
Council’s Draft Urban Ecology Strategy which has been
developed to enhance and protect our natural environment.
Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/UrbanEcology for more information
and to find out how to have your say.
Some of the tips include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Turn the TV off when no one is watching
Switch off lights when you don’t need them
Switch off appliances not in use at the wall
Only heat or cool rooms you are using
Use energy efficient light globes
Make sure your fridge door seal is tight and free from gaps
Turn down your thermostat and throw on a jumper
Know what goes in your recycling bin
Get weather seals for the bottom of external doors to
stop draughts
Check out our environment programs at
mvcc.vic.gov.au/environmentprograms for more advice
on sustainability in your home.
at [email protected] or phone 9243 8888 to register.
14
750 Mt Alexander Road (Cnr Pascoe Vale Road),
Moonee Ponds
P: 9243 9191
E: [email protected]
W: clocktowercentre.com.au
Theatre Season 2014
Head to clocktowercentre.com.au to book your tickets
or call 9243 9191.
Victorian Opera in Concert
Saturday, 28 June at 8pm
Join Victorian Opera’s bright young stars for an evening
of much loved opera classics, performing works from
Madama Butterfly, Un ballo in maschera, Rusalka and more.
The Fabulous Singlettes
Saturday, 19 July at 8pm
NEW SHOW Sunday, 20 July at 5pm
Don’t miss this high camp trio
perform their impeccable harmonies
and sly, camp humour as they
celebrate the ‘60s with immaculate
covers of the girl group era.
Enrolments open: term three
art courses
Get your creative juices flowing in one of these hands
on and encouraging art courses.
•
•
•
•
My First No.2/HB: drawing for beginners
Too Hot to Handle: glass slumping and fusing for all levels
Easing into the Easel: painting for beginners
Tile with Style: mosaics for beginners or continuing
students
• The Human Form: life drawing for all levels
Winter Music in the Valley
Enjoy beautiful music this winter in this free concert series
held over four Sundays from 15 June – 6 July at St Martin
de Porres in Avondale Heights, St George’s in Travancore,
St John’s Uniting in Essendon and the Clocktower Centre
in Moonee Ponds.
Groups this year include the Fantasy Quintet, singers
from Lyric Opera of Melbourne, Melbourne’s premier vocal
ensemble the Consort of Melbourne and Moonee Valley’s
own Essendon Symphony Orchestra.
Find out more at mvcc.vic.gov.au/wintermusic or call
9243 8888.
180 Holmes Road, Moonee Ponds
P: 8325 1750
E: [email protected]
W: incineratorgallery.com
Exhibitions
The following exhibitions all open on Friday, 6 June and
close on Sunday, 27 July.
Beyond the Surface
Group exhibition, co-curated by Hannah Presley
An exhibition of recent work by Indigenous artists from
south-eastern Australia on the idea of deep listening, an
integral part of Indigenous culture.
What’s your cape?
Rob Ball, in the Atrium Project
A series of workshops for gallery visitors where they can
participate in the act of cosplay, the act of dressing up in
costumes and accessories to represent a specific idea or
character, usually from popular culture.
Untitled
lysdexic
Sound and light collective, lysdexic, will light up the garden
space at night with an abstract light and sound show created
from environmental data collected from the garden during
the day.
There 2B Drawn
Gwendoline Krumins
Over 30 sketches in media including graphite, ink and
coloured pencil.
Free talks
Come to one of our informative talks at the gallery with wine,
tea, coffee and cheese included. Free but RSVPs preferred.
Curator Talk: Beyond the Surface
Sunday, 29 June, 1pm-2pm
Hannah Presley, curator of Beyond the Surface, and some
of the participating artists will discuss the themes and
artworks in the exhibition.
Indigenous Poetry and Spoken Word
Friday, 18 July, 6pm-8pm
Come and experience an intimate evening of poetry
and spoken word from some of Melbourne’s known and
unknown Indigenous poetic artists.
15
Library news
Survey results
The results of the Library Community Satisfaction Survey
which was conducted late last year are now available. We
appreciate the time people took to provide their feedback.
The main findings reveal positive results which will be used
to inform future planning. Visit libraries.mvcc.vic.gov.au to
view the results.
Author talks
Meet John Marsden
Famous for the Tomorrow series
and other well-known titles, John
Marsden needs no introduction. At
this exclusive event, brought to you
by High Road to Reading, he will
share his expertise on the writing
process, his inspirations, and many
more tips for budding authors.
Avondale Heights Library and Learning Centre,
69-79 Military Road, Avondale Heights
Saturday, 14 June, 2pm-3pm
Free, but bookings necessary. Call 8325 1940 or visit
mooneevalleylibraries.eventbrite.com.au to book.
High Road to Reading brings authors to Victorian public
libraries for readings, talks and workshops.
Mangia! Mangia! Gatherings: the spirit
of coming together
Teresa Oates and Angela Villella are from Italian immigrant
families and have grown up in a culture that uses food to
celebrate just about anything. This new book celebrates
the home cooking from their native Calabria. Teresa will
talk about her involvement with the book and will give a
demonstration of some of her recipes. Their earlier book,
Mangia! Mangia!, was a best-seller.
Sam Merrifield Library, 762 Mt Alexander Road,
Moonee Ponds
Tuesday, 17 June, 7pm
Free, but bookings necessary. Call 8325 1950 or visit
mooneevalleylibraries.eventbrite.com.au to book.
The Forgotten Rebels
Recognition of women’s activity in politics and major
historical events tends to be overlooked. Clare Wright is a
historian who has worked as a political speechwriter, lecturer
and broadcaster.
The Forgotten Rebels reveals the pivotal role that women
played on the Ballarat goldfields and at the Eureka rebellion.
Hear Clare talk about her groundbreaking book.
Avondale Heights Library and Learning Centre
Monday, 23 June, 6.30pm
Free, but bookings necessary. Call 8325 1940 or visit
mooneevalleylibraries.eventbrite.com.au to book.
Night Games
Anna Krien’s book Night Games delves into issues such as
how sport reflects our culture and the role of money and
adulation on often immature and irresponsible young men.
It also details the relationship between clubs and Police,
and the heavily male centric culture of sports journalism.
Night Games also highlights how football culture fails to
deal with sexual assault. Anna will be discussing these issues
and more in an interview format.
Night Games was shortlisted for the 2013 Walkley Book
Awards and the 2014 Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature
(Non-Fiction Prize).
Sam Merrifield Library
Wednesday, 23 July, 7pm
Free, but bookings necessary. Call 8325 1950 or visit
mooneevalleylibraries.eventbrite.com.au to book.
Family History Group
Family and community history is of interest to a great
many people in our community. Moonee Valley libraries are
seeking members for a family history group which will meet
regularly at Sam Merrifield Library.
Join the group to connect with other local people with an
interest in genealogy, and to share stories, research skills
and knowledge. Members will also be involved in setting
the direction, activities and meeting times of the group.
To register your interest or for more information call
8325 1950.
NAIDOC Week: Artist talk
Paola Balla is an artist, community arts practitioner, curator,
Indigenous studies lecturer and, most recently, a Victorian
Indigenous Art Award winner.
In this exciting presentation, Paola will talk about the
development of contemporary Indigenous art and prominent
Indigenous artists, including her work and inspirations.
Flemington Library, 313 Racecourse Road, Flemington
Wednesday, 9 July, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Free, but bookings necessary. Call 8325 1975 or visit
mooneevalleylibraries.eventbrite.com.au to book.
16
Capital Works
Projects in your Ward
Some of the capital works recently completed or underway in your Ward are listed below.
For further information on any of these capital works, please contact Council on 9243 8888.
Rose Hill Ward
Myrnong Ward
Buckley Ward
Road improvements to
• Riverside Avenue
• Canning Street
• Lacy Street
• White Street
• Woodbury Court
• Wood Street
Road improvements to
• Progress Street
• Monash Street
• Elliott Street
• Chauvel Street
Road improvements to Term Street
(Strathmore)
(Ascot Vale)
(Avondale Heights)
$155,000
$190,000
$150,000
Traffic management works in
Clarendon Street (Avondale Heights)
Drainage improvements to Heritage
Street (Moonee Ponds)
Strathmore Tennis Club tennis court
improvements (Strathmore)
$92,000
$400,000
$200,000
Improvements to Rosehill Park
(Keilor East)
Flemington Library renewal and
improvement works (Flemington)
Road safety improvements to
Cooper Street (Essendon)
$25,000
$150,000
$10,000
In Focus
Greening Airport West
Airport West is not renowned for its green spaces
which is why Council is committed to protecting and
enhancing the green spaces that currently exist in the
suburb as part of the Green Spine Project.
With the support of the State Government Office of Living
Victoria, Melbourne Water and City West Water we asked
the community for their ideas on improvements to the linear
park that runs along the Airport West Easement between
Parer Road and Fraser Street in Airport West.
These ideas then led to the development of a draft plan for
the space which includes an amazing array of features that
will create a vibrant and accessible green spine through the
heart of Airport West. Featuring play areas, sport facilities,
ponds and other habitat for wildlife, walking paths, an
orchard and a BBQ area, the proposed plan offers something
for all local community members to enjoy. The draft plan is
available to view at mvcc.vic.gov.au/greenspine
The next step for this project is the completion of the
final plan following feedback from the community.
Once completed, the final design will be available to view
on our website.
17
Buckley Ward
Ward Duty
Buckley
Rose Hill
Ward
Aberfeldie Essendon Essendon Fields Essendon North
Niddrie Strathmore Strathmore Heights
Ward
Myrnong
Ward
Mayor, Cr Jan Chantry [email protected]
Portfolio: Arts and Culture
Phone: 0411 704 625
It was great to see members of our Moonee Valley Men’s Shed taking part in art workshops and
holding an exhibition of their works. Our Men’s Sheds have been so well received by the community
that we’re hoping to partner with several rotary clubs to expand our network of Men’s Sheds into
Strathmore.
The Incinerator Gallery recently held the Wunderkammer touring exhibition. We’re lucky in Moonee
Valley to have a dedicated gallery that continues to attract high quality exhibits, and the Clocktower
Centre which hosts varied performances every week. If you haven’t been along to an exhibition or
performance this year, I encourage you to make the time to go.
The Incinerator Art Award is the successor to Artecycle and is Moonee Valley’s premier visual arts
prize. Art for Social Change is the focus of the award, which demonstrates a belief in cultural and
creative expression as a means of deep and lasting social change. Entries for the award open on
Monday, 2 June and will close on Monday, 28 July. Visit incineratorgallery.com for more information.
Cr Paul Giuliano [email protected]
Portfolio: Urban Design, Open Space and Assets Phone: 0423 699 646
We recently completed the consultation on a draft Road Asset Management Plan. Roads are one
of Council’s biggest assets and it’s important that we strategically assess and upgrade our roads.
This allows us to continue to drive on acceptable roads in Moonee Valley and to limit the disruption
to residents, schools and businesses during works. Thank you to all those who took part in the
consultation.
Council recently finished community consultation for the Airport West Green Spine project. We
received great ideas about improving this linear park between Parer Road and Fraser Street including
exercise stations, play space, BBQ, bird boxes, orchards, skate area and half basketball court. The final
design is being developed based on your feedback and will be available soon. I look forward to seeing
the space activated in years to come.
June brings about Men’s Health Week. I encourage everyone to make the effort to talk to the men in
their lives and check on their wellbeing. Also, to all men, if you’re concerned about your health, visit
your doctor today.
Cr Narelle Sharpe [email protected]
Portfolio: Family, Aged, Disability and Youth Phone: 0429 977 171
facebook.com/councillornarellesharpe
twitter.com/narellesharpe
Website: narellesharpe.com.au
Council’s C117 Amendment proposed specified controls for residential land in the North Essendon and
Keilor Road Structure Plans. These controls would ensure that only villa units or townhouses could
be built in these areas and would prevent inappropriate development from occurring in residential
streets. Much work went into the development of these controls and I sincerely thank the residents
who were directly involved in this for their time and commitment.
Hence, it is extremely disappointing that the Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy, has approved
Amendment C117 without these controls. In the past there has been much community concern about
activity centres, structure plan boundaries and the potential for development in residential areas.
This clearly highlights that decisions relating to how our residents want to see their suburbs develop
should be left to the Council, rather than another tier of government that has no idea about our area
and our residents.
If you have a local issue that you want to talk to me about, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.
18
MyrnongWard
Ward Duty
Buckley
Ascot Vale Flemington Moonee Ponds Travancore
Rose Hill
Ward
Ward
Myrnong
Ward
Deputy Mayor, Cr Nicole Marshall [email protected]
Portfolio: Land Use Planning Phone: 0408 141 471
facebook.com/MarshallforMooneeValley
twitter.com/marshall4moonee
Proposed large developments and projects such as the East West Link will have a huge effect on
Moonee Valley. Council is committed to advocating for the best outcomes for residents. At the recent
East West Link hearings we put forward a strong argument that the Minister for Planning should not
grant the approvals required for this proposed project. Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/eastwestlink for details.
We’ve been informed that we will be closely consulted with in regards to the Flemington Racecourse
development. Unfortunately, Council does not have planning control over this development and any
decision will be made by the Minister for Planning. We will keep the community informed as more
information becomes available.
Our work regarding the Moonee Valley Racecourse redevelopment continues. Plans are progressing to
protect the heritage of this site and we are working with the racing club to develop a Memorandum
of Understanding to provide a framework for moving forward. I encourage community groups and
individuals to apply for Community Grants. See page 6 for more information.
Cr Jim Cusack [email protected]
Portfolio: Community Engagement and Learning
Phone: 0407 521 432
For more than a decade, Council has supported the district of Liquica, East Timor, with funds raised
on the Mayoral Race Night. Initially, Council’s Liquica Working Group, supported by the local Friends
of Liquica, funded community projects to address the immediate aftermath of Indonesian occupation.
More recently though, this has turned towards social enterprises providing work and training for the
community. Positions on the group are available so contact me if you are interested in joining.
Thanks to all residents who made submissions to the East West Link panel – these are online
at the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure website. The East West Link
adversely affects 14,000 people in Flemington, Travancore, Moonee Ponds and Ascot Vale. Although
submissions have closed Council is continuing to advocate on this issue alongside the Moonee
Valley Racecourse, changes to residential zones, and the proposal for redevelopment of Flemington
Racecourse that includes 1280 apartments. Council receives around 30 development proposals a
week and many of these are major developments in Myrnong Ward. Keep up to date with what’s on in
winter through Council’s website and social media.
Cr Cam Nation [email protected]
Portfolio: Economic Development
Phone: 0409 247 410
facebook.com/councillorcam Website: councillorcam.com
As Council’s Economic Development portfolio holder I’m thrilled that the State Government has
announced a major new jobs precinct at Essendon Airport. This announcement will pave the way
for 16,000 new jobs in the precinct and a potential investment in the municipality of more than
$2 billion. The partnership between the Metropolitan Planning Authority, Essendon Fields and Council
will deliver a framework to build on an existing base of 9,000 jobs and more than 630 businesses
within the precinct. Several development projects have been identified in early master planning
including a $30 million hotel and conference centre, an $80 million extension of the Auto Centro
car retail hub, and construction of additional hangars and aviation facilities.
In other Council news, nominations for the Spirit of Moonee Valley Awards will open shortly.
As a previous winner of the Youth Award in 2008, I know firsthand the honour that comes with
receiving one of these awards, and encourage residents to nominate a member of their local
community who has made an important contribution to life in Moonee Valley.
19
Rose Hill Ward
Ward Duty
Buckley
Rose Hill
Ward
Airport West Avondale Heights Essendon West Keilor East
Ward
Myrnong
Ward
Cr Shirley Cornish [email protected]
Portfolio: Environmental Sustainability
Phone: 0409 524 662
I attended the Anzac Day Dawn Service commemorations to pay my respects to the men and women
who have served our country. I was moved by the stories of courage and sacrifice that I heard about
those who have served.
The recently opened Avondale Heights Early Years Centre brings together preschool, three-year-old
programs and Maternal and Child Health Services for the Avondale Heights community. The centre
provides an exciting and engaging environment for our children and families, meets environmentally
sustainable standards and is accessible to the whole community. It is a wonderful addition for the
Avondale Heights community.
Following a comprehensive review, the State Government is working to strengthen planning controls
along the Maribyrnong River. This started with the recent introduction to our planning scheme of
interim mandatory height controls for properties directly alongside the river. Work is now starting
with Melbourne Water, Brimbank and Maribyrnong City Councils and other stakeholders to implement
an Environmental Significance Overlay to the entire river which will help protect our unique waterway
for future generations to enjoy.
Cr John Sipek [email protected]
Portfolio: Leisure and Recreation
Phone: 0423 776 740
Council’s Community Grants will open soon. The grants allow Council to partner with the community
to support the delivery of projects that enhance wellbeing in Moonee Valley. Community groups and
individuals can apply under four categories for grants up to $5,000. I encourage you to apply for a
grant – you could provide social activities, promote community safety, or host a cultural event. Take a
look at page 6 for some of the activities that last year’s grant recipients held.
During our annual budget process Council determines how much funding is required to deliver
Council services, manage assets, and upgrade or replace infrastructure during the year. Thank you to
everyone who made a submission on the 2014/15 proposed Annual Budget; our Council officers are
now reviewing the submissions we received.
Council’s first branch and pruning collection for the year will be between Monday, 5 May and Friday,
6 June. Your collection date will depend on your normal weekly collection day, so check your Council
calendar or visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/branchcollection to find out your collection week.
Cr Andrea Surace [email protected]
Portfolio: Traffic and Transportation
Phone: 0408 309 435
The Minister for Planning released new residential zones for Victoria and Councillors have been
working on this issue. Council held community consultations about the residential zones in April.
Thank you to everyone who came along. We are now waiting for a response from the Minister
for Planning.
Council has been assisting our young people with a variety of programs to increase road safety
awareness in Moonee Valley. These include a ‘don’t text and drive’ campaign encouraging drivers
to put their phones on ‘road mode’ before they drive and we continue to assist schools to run the
Fit2Drive workshops for year 11 students. See more details on page 5.
It’s coming to that time of year where the weather makes us want to stay indoors – so why not
get along to a performance at the Clocktower Centre. Check out the Victorian Opera or The Fabulous
Singlettes from our 2014 Theatre Season line up. Visit clocktowercentre.com.au for details and to
buy tickets.
National Relay Service 133 677 or iprelay.com.au