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2008 Council Election: Information for Prospective Candidates

Make a difference

Information sessions for prospective candidates in the 2008 Council elections will be held in September and October.

1. An MAV sponsored Session on 3 September 2008 from 7 to 9pm in the Boroondara Room; and
2. A Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) Session on 22 October 2008 from 7 to 9pm in the Boroondara Room.

For more information, please call 9278 4470.

The 2008 Boroondara Council election is on Saturday 29 November 2008.

Are you enrolled to vote?

You are already enrolled for this election if you are at least 18 years of age on 29 November 2008 and:

• You are on the State electoral roll for your present address; or
• You own property in the municipality, and you are the first or second-named person on the Council’s rate records; or
• You have applied to Council to be enrolled for this year’s elections.

All voters have one vote only.

You must apply to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) to enrol if:

• You are an Australian citizen aged 18 years of age or over on Saturday 29 November 2008; and
• You have lived at your present address for at least a month; and
• You are not on the State electoral roll for your present address.

To download a form, visit www.vec.vic.gov.au or contact the VEC on 131 832.

You can also collect an enrolment form from Coles supermarkets, post offices, Centrelink offices and Australian Electoral Commission offices.

You may apply to Council if you are at least 18 years of age on Saturday 29 November 2008 and:

• You are non-Australian citizens who lives and pays rates in the municipality; or
• You pay rates on a property you occupy and have no other voting entitlement in the municipality (e.g. you are a shop tenant), and are either named on the Council’s rates records to receive the rates notice or have the written consent of the owner to vote in their place; or
• You are a director or company secretary of a corporation that pays rates in the municipality and you have no other voting entitlement within the municipality.

If you fit this criteria, you can apply to Council to vote in this election. To do this, you need to complete a Council enrolment form.

You will automatically be sent a renewal enrolment form if you applied to Council to vote at the last general election.

Read more about the election process and the role of Councillor within the City of Boroondara on this website.

Audit Committee Vacancy - Expressions of Interest

Council's Audit Committee is integral to the principles of sound corporate governance.

The committee acts to oversee and monitor Council's effectiveness of in carrying out its responsibilities for accountable financial management, good corporate governance, maintaining a system of internal control and risk management and fostering an ethical environment. Committee membership currently comprises four councillors and three independent members from the Boroondara community.

The committee operates under a Council adopted Audit Committee Charter. Copies of the charter can be obtained by emailing managerfinancialservices@boroondara.vic.gov.a. A vacancy for an independent member has arisen.

Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualified and experienced members of the Boroondara community to fill this vacancy.

Expressions of interest should be directed to:

Ms Helen Lanyon
Director Corporate Resources
City of Boroondara
Private Bag 1
Camberwell  Vic  3124

or email:  managerfinancialservices@boroondara.vic.gov.au

Boroondara Air Quality Monitoring report

Heggies Pty Ltd (Heggies) was contracted by the City of Boroondara Council to undertake Air Quality Monitoring for particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations at locations adjacent to the Monash and Eastern Freeways during June and July of 2008.

The basis for this monitoring was to assess current levels of these typical roadside pollutants, prior to any upgrade of the freeways.

The results of the monitoring conducted indicated that the concentration of NO2 (a greenhouse gas), did not exceed the SEPP (AAQ) annual average environmental quality objective. To read more, click here or download below.

For more information, contact Mr Evan Boloutis, Manager Engineering & Traffic on 9278 4520.

Roadside Air Pollution Monitoring
Read the report from the Roadside Air Pollution Monitoring, Eastern and Monash Freeways, August 2008.

Boroondara Cares - City Exchange for Farming Neighbours

Visit the Boroondara Cares website at:          www.boroondaracares.com

The City of Boroondara has teamed up with all eight of the municipality’s rotary clubs in a program ‘first’ to support our rural neighbours.

The ‘Boroondara Cares’ program, will establish a number of ongoing social exchanges throughout this year to support the Moira Shire in the face of worsening drought.

The program has been set up as an incubator with an aim to create similar programs across Melbourne.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said the program was not a charitable venture.

“This is not about providing hand-outs, this is about an exchange of friendship and support during difficult times,” said Cr Ross.

“We are not pretending to be counsellors or medicos. We are simply a fellow community with a desire to help.

“Many Boroondara residents I have talked with say they are wanting to help but don’t know how. This is one very real way they can make a difference.

“Already there are discussions happening with other councils to establish a similar program. If this project is a success in Victoria then there is an exciting possibility of uptake right around Australia.”

“The exchanges are happening on all sorts of levels - from Mayor-to-Mayor, Council-to-Council, School-to-School and Church-to-Church - the possibilities are great.”

The program will involve a number of fundraising events in 2008 including a dinner dance and barbecue, holiday camps, ‘kids days’ and a special Moira produce at the Boroondara’s Farmers’ Market.

“We have no magic solution or quick fix to the social challenges in Moira but we do have a community willing to help,” said Cr Ross.

Former Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Phillip Healey said that the program was inspired by a story in the Herald Sun late last year.

“I was reading about the hardship in Moira and thinking about the families that were really doing it tough,” said Cr Healey.

“In the city we worry about not being able to wash our cars or reducing our shower times while people in Moira are worrying about their day-to-day survival.

“I picked up the phone to the Mayor of Moira and asked him what we could do to help.

“I said that I would love to have him send down some children from the bush to explain to our kids down here what it was really like.

“The Mayor asked that we send up 20 good people to have a chat and to listen to their story. We ended up getting 67 people volunteering - the support was overwhelming!”

This year the program has seen Hawthorn Rotary host 40 children from the bush for a BBQ and tennis day at Kooyong. The Kew Rotary Club also delivered over 2000 Christmas cakes and puddings over the Christmas period.

“The Rotary Club of Canterbury is hosting another exciting event on Friday with around 40 children going to the zoo and visiting our Boroondara Sports Complex for a swim,” said Cr Ross.

The Rotary clubs which will auspice the program include Camberwell, Kew Rotary, Kew on Yarra, Hawthorn, Canterbury, Balwyn, North Balwyn and Glenferrie.

 

* Moira Shire is located three hours north of Melbourne and is close to the regional centres of Shepparton, Albury/Wodonga and Echuca/Moama. The Shire includes the major centres of Cobram, Nathalia, Numurkah and Yarrawonga, as well as 18 smaller towns and communities.

Boroondara City Council awarded for green purchasing achievement

The City of Boroondara has been recognised for its achievements in green purchasing at an
ECO-Buy awards ceremony in Melbourne on 2 July 2008 presented by Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Gavin Jennings.

The City of Boroondara won the Communicating Green Purchasing in 2006/2007 Award.

The award recognised communication activities undertaken by Boroondara City Council including:
- an induction for all new staff on the Council’s Green Purchasing Policy
- the creation of a Green Office eLearning module on the intranet
- the creation of green branding to encourage green purchasing initiatives
- the creation of a Sustainable Shopping Guide
- a successful week-long Living for Our Future as a 2007 Council event, and an expo and workshops for the public.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that by purchasing green products, Boroondara City Council creates a more sustainable future for both the organisation and the local community.

“Council’s action has helped create demand for recycled and environmentally friendly products, reduced costs by buying energy and water efficient products and also reduced our impact on climate change,” Cr Ross said.

“The City of Boroondara is taking leadership by purchasing products with reduced environmental impacts.”

“Boroondara City Council has been recognised for its commitment and achievement in this important area of environmental leadership,” said ECO-Buy’s Chief Executive Officer Hugh Wareham.

“This award shows that the City of Boroondara is leading the way in implementing and communicating the benefits of green purchasing.”

Results for 2006/2007 show that the 59 members of ECO-Buy’s local government program invested over $62 million on green products in the last year.

ECO-Buy is a not-for-profit company which helps organisations buy goods and services which are less damaging to the environment and human health. ECO-Buy has provided green procurement programs to Victorian local governments since 2000 and 73 per cent (59) of Victorian local government are members of ECO-Buy.

For contact information for ECO-Buy please contact Sarah Priest, Media Officer.

Boroondara's 'Community Profile' Website has been Updated

The City of Boroondara Community Profile website is now updated with the latest available data from the 2006 Census of Population and Housing.  Residents, businesses, students and visitors can now access detailed demographic information about our 11 suburbs and the City, via the Council website. The 2006 Community Profile website has interactive maps, time series data from 1991 to 2006 and new Census data on unpaid work, disability and volunteering.

Take a look at the Community Profile website now...

City of Boroondara locked out of lock out

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that the Premier, John Brumby, is to be congratulated for taking the initiative to reduce the negative impacts of pubs, clubs and bars.

“Over the past two years, the City of Boroondara has worked with the community including police, traders and late night venue operators to address problems in the Glenferrie Road caused by late night revellers,” said Cr Ross.

“However, while Council supports the initiative it is particularly disappointed that despite there being a need for police to regularly use a brawler van in Glenferrie Road the Government had failed to recognise the seriousness of the issues in this shopping centre.

“The City of Boroondara is warning that a 2am lockout in Melbourne’s inner city will result in more crime and anti-social behaviour in Melbourne’s suburbs unless the State Government broadens the trial.

“The City of Boroondara is calling on the State Government to include adjoining municipalities like Boroondara in the lock out, to ensure that the Glenferrie Road precinct does not become the favourite alternative for those locked out of inner city locations,” said Cr Ross.

Council will be urging the support of the Minister for Consumer Affairs to include Boroondara in the trial.

“While the lock-out may result in a reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour in Melbourne’s inner city this is likely to come at the expense of increased crime and anti-social behaviour in Melbourne’s suburbs like Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn,” said Cr Ross.

“There is a major risk that patrons attending late night venues in the lock-out area will be flushed into areas like Glenferrie Road as they seek alternative late night venues where they have the freedom to come and go as they please.

“This will result in crime and anti-social behaviour and disrupt the lives of residents abutting shopping centres.

Ward Councillor, Meredith Butler, said that Council has in working with police, traders and late night venue operators over the past two years achieved the following:

• Establishment of a formalised process for joint communication with residents, traders, police and Council departments and action on anti-social behaviour with the formation of a Working Group;
  
  
• Increased cooperation from venue operators with the installation of new cameras and street and door security;
  
  
• Council improvements to parking signage, street lighting, tree care, taxi rank locations, litter collection, street cleaning processes, extra Nightrider bus stops and increased officer patrols;
  
  
• Established a Memorandum of Understanding with local Police on the local law regarding open alcohol containers on Council-owned land;
  
  
• A process established for logging issues and informing police and Council;
  
  
• Police have run special operations to prevent problems and respond to hotspots;
  
  
• Changes to parking signage in St Columbs Street have been very effective in reducing disturbances;
  
  
• Changes through Connex on issues relating to Glenferrie Railway Station; and
  
  
• A Pilot Youth Outreach project will be initiated for three months to collect information on the
  profile, extent, nature and locations of anti-social behaviour in the Glenferrie precinct.”

“This community has banded together and worked long and hard to achieve major improvements to manage what is a difficult problem. However we risk having this progress reversed if the State Government fails to include us in the trial,” said Cr Ross.

“Council understands that the trial was requested by Victoria Police and supports any attempts to better manage the impact of anti-social behaviour arising from pub and night club activity.

“That said, we believe that in order for this ban to be fair and effective for everyone the ban needs to be inclusive of all metropolitan areas with known hot spots, not just selected ones.”

Community Safety & Wellbeing Awards 2008

Nominations invited for Community Safety & Wellbeing Awards 2008.

Community Safety Month in October will be celebrated in Boroondara by acknowledging individuals and services that have contributed to making Boroondara a safer place.

We are looking for initiatives that have addressed safety in the home and in the local community through:

• Promoting social connections;
• Community education; 
• Good design; 
• Responding to emergencies;
• Promoting health and fitness; or
• Reducing risk of physical &/or emotional injury.

Certificates will be presented by the Mayor at an afternoon tea at 3pm on 28 October 2008.

To nominate, please click on the link and return the completed form by 26 August 2008.
Email ros.winkler@boroondara.vic.gov.au or contact Community Planning on 9278 4751.

Community Safety & Wellbeing Awards 2008 nomination form - PDF format
Download the Community Safety & Wellbeing Awards 2008 nomination form in PDF format.

Community Safety & Wellbeing Awards 2008 nomination form - word doc
Download the Community Safety & Wellbing Awards 2008 nomination form in word format.

Council crackdown on illegal sales

Almost a quarter of tobacco retailers in Boroondara have been busted selling cigarettes to children.

Test purchases conducted by the City of Boroondara’s Environmental Health Team in July found that 29 out of 122 retailers in the municipality broke the law by selling to people under 18 years.

All 29 vendors caught breaking the law, were issued with official warnings.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that selling to minors was a serious issue which urgently needed to stop.

“Smoking is a major health risk to the community and we need to make sure that vulnerable, younger people are protected. Eight out of ten new smokers start as children and are 15 times more likely to die of lung cancer than non-smokers,” said Cr Ross.

“Council’s Environmental Health Team will continue to run a test purchase program to ensure tobacco retailers in Boroondara comply with the laws.

“If vendors continue to flout the laws then they can expect formal legal action from Council.”

Retailers found to be breaking the law risk fines of up to $5000 and the loss of their right to sell tobacco.

“Fortunately the vast majority of retailers are responsible and comply with the law but it is disappointing that some retailers ignore their civic and legal obligations,” said Cr Ross.

“Vendors simply have to ask for proof of age before selling to someone who may be underage. It is not difficult to do.”

More than 5000 Victorians die of tobacco related diseases every year.

People concerned about retailers selling to children should ring the Council’s Environmental Health Team on 9278 4710 or the Department of Human Services Tobacco Information Line on 1300 136 775. Information on tobacco laws is available at www.health.vic.gov.au/tobaccoreforms

Council Plan 2008-2013

The City of Boroondara is pleased to present the Council Plan 2008-2013.

Council supports continuation of tree laws

Council has backed the continuation of the tree law in Boroondara after evidence that the law has been effective in regulating the unnecessary removal of more than 100 canopy and ‘significant’ trees.

The review presented to Council found that 97 per cent of applications for tree removal are from residential property owners while only three per cent are from developers.

The report also shows the applications are being processed within an average of six days of receiving the application.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said regulating tree removal was vital to ensure the hallmark, leafy quality of Boroondara’s streets was maintained for the benefit of the wider community.

“The tree law is also about public education to make all residents aware of the value of their trees and encourage the preservation of trees for future generations,” said Cr Ross.

“Applications are being processed quickly and easily. Residents can also look forward to further efficiencies with a plan to use a remote access system.

“If one were to estimate the replacement value of these individual trees it would be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

“One of the hidden, but significant benefits of the tree local law is that new trees must be planted to replace those which are removed.  This sustains our tree canopy for the future.”

Council has now amended its guidelines to state that proposals to build carports, garages or swimming pools will no longer be accepted as the sole justification for tree removal. Other criteria relating to the condition of the tree must be met. 

Council has also resolved to request that the government increase maximum penalties for illegal tree removal from $2,202 up to a maximum of $11,320 per tree to create a disincentive for illegal removal.

“It is important to remember that the local law requires a permit for tree removal when the circumference of the tree is 110cm or more measured at 1.5m above ground level,” said Cr Ross.

“The reality is that many of these trees are priceless, some taking hundreds of years to fully mature and contributing to the streetscape and amenity of an area benefiting dozens of neighbouring houses.”

Council urges citizens to make a stand

General elections for the City of Boroondara are fast approaching and community-minded citizens are being urged to think about standing for council and planning their election campaigns now.

The City of Boroondara has joined a state-wide campaign encouraging citizens to stand for council and help candidates understand what is involved in pursuing this.

A dedicated website has been launched where candidates can check their eligibility to stand for council and find about more about the day-to-day activities of a councillor. The link can be found on Council’s website or by going direct to www.standforcouncil.com.au.

CEO of City of Boroondara, Ms Catherine Dale said that becoming a councillor is a great chance to influence the future direction of the local community.

“If you are over 18 and on the electoral roll for the council area, the chances are you are eligible to stand for council,” said Ms Dale.

“Deciding to stand for council is a big decision. A councillor’s role is exciting but also demanding, and prospective candidates need to find out what is involved before nominating for election.

“This year is a good opportunity for councils to work together to raise awareness of local democratic processes because all councils are holding elections at the same time.

The City of Boroondara will also host a public information session on 3 September 2008 from 7:00pm till 9.00pm in the Boroondara Room at the Camberwell Office, 8 Inglesby Road, Camberwell. Prospective candidates are invited to hear first hand from experienced councillors from other councils, what the role entails.

Elections for the City of Boroondara will be conducted by postal voting.  Postal ballots will be mailed out in the week commencing 10 November and they must be returned by 6:00pm on Friday 28 November.

Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan

Council has endorsed the development of the Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan for the purposes of public consultation.

The Plan is now a requirement of the State Government as outlined in the Domestic (Feral & Nuisance) Animals Act.

Animal Management issues which are included as part of this Draft Plan are:

• Community safety – managing the risk of dog attacks
• Amenity issues resulting from domestic animals in high density living
• Environmental issues such as disposal of dog faeces
• Management of cats in our community
• Signage in Public Open Space
• Community Education relating to Responsible Pet Ownership
• The regulatory framework

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that the Draft Plan seeks to balance the competing demands of animal owners, the broader community and the animals which share people’s lives.

“Council recognises the positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing resulting from the ownership of a pet,” Cr Ross.

“The programs and activities to be outlined in the Draft Plan strive to achieve the balance of encouraging responsible pet ownership while giving regard to the welfare, amenity and well-being of others.

“The approach is to build on previous work undertaken by Council to enhance animal management in Boroondara and encourage responsible pet ownership.

Copies of the Draft Plan will be made available on Council’s website and in Council’s offices and libraries. Comments and submissions are invited by Friday 5 September 2008.

Eastern Freeway Noise Monitoring Results

Heggies Pty. Ltd. (Heggies) was retained by the Boroondara City Council to determine existing traffic noise levels at eight different locations along the Eastern and Monash Freeways.

Results compared with the assessment criterion provided by VicRoads, and all noise monitoring locations were within the nominated noise limits for existing freeways (68dBA, L10, 18h).

Further noise testing is scheduled to be undertaken In October 2008, to gauge the impact of the opening of Eastlink and further construction activity along the M1 project.

Please click here for further information, results and analysis or download below.

For more information, please call Mr Evan Boloutis, Manager Engineering & Traffic, on 9278 4520.

The results
Download the Eastern Monash Freeway Noise Monitoring results.

Entries Now Open for Boroondara Eisteddfod!

Young and talented musicians are encouraged to hurry before entries close on the 14 March for one of Melbourne's most esteemed music festivals – the Boroondara Eisteddfod.

People of all ages are able to hear their peers perform as well as compete for prize money totaling over $14,000.

The event runs from Monday 7 April to Sunday 27 July with sections including:

• pianoforte
• vocal
• instrumental (strings, guitar, woodwind and brass)
• chamber music
• ensembles (instrumental, concert bands, string orchestras)
• choral (primary school, secondary school, A’capella)

In 2008 the Eisteddfod will be hosting the Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra’s  Piano Concerto Competition. This competition has a first prize of $1,000 and will also give three finalists the prestigious chance to perform with the Zelman Symphony.

This year the Eisteddfod also presents the inaugural Boroondara Brass Concerto Award with Kew Band.

Other highlights for the Eisteddfod include the Primary Schools Choir Final, The Robert Salzer Vocal Championship Award, Margaret and Murray Sharp Memorial Chamber Music Award and the Boroondara Eisteddfod Showcase Concert.

Entry information can be downloaded from www.boroondara.vic.gov.au from Monday 11 February 2008.

For further information or information in hard copy, please call the Eisteddfod Coordinator on 9278 4770 or email: eisteddfod@boroondara.vic.gov.au

Final call: 2008 Boroondara Literary Awards entries closing soon

Writers of all ages can enter the Boroondara Literary Awards, with a total prize pool of $7,350 available in a range of categories. Entries close on Friday 29 August.

The awards encourage creative submissions for an Open Short Story section, and poetry and prose for a Young Writers’ section.

In addition to the prize pool, winners will be recognised at a civic presentation and published in the annual anthology. Selected writers will also feature in the Progress Leader.

The Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that the award is one of the highlights in the arts and cultural calendar of Boroondara.

“The standard of competition is extremely high making the awards a fantastic stepping stone for people serious about a writing career,” said Cr Ross.

“While the competition attracts hundreds of budding writers from around the nation we think it is important to inspire local submissions by offering a $500 prize for the best Boroondara entry.

“Writers are many ages and from all walks of life and their original works are sure to touch us and inspire us in some way.”

“I would also like to thank major sponsors Rotary and Progress Leader.”

The Open Short Story section invites literary works between 2,000 and 3,000 words. The Young Writers’ section, which includes prose and poetry, is only open to young people living, working or studying in Boroondara.

For more information about the awards and how to enter, please call Leisure and Cultural services on 9278 4770, email bla@boroondara.vic.gov.au or by visiting www.boroondara.vic.gov.au.

The awards are jointly sponsored by the City of Boroondara, Leader Community Newspapers and the Rotary Club of Balwyn.

Free computer recycle service

The City of Boroondara is urging residents to think ‘green’ when disposing of their used computers and equipment by using the free Byteback™recycling service at the Boroondara transfer station at 648 Riversdale Road in Camberwell.

Since the program began in 2005 Byteback™ has recycled more than 858 tonnes of computer waste collected in the first three years of operation. That’s equivalent to 116,169 items recycled including:

• 22,896 desktops
• 31,254  monitors
• 11,101 printers
• 243 servers
• 1473 laptops 
• 49,202 miscellaneous items such as keyboards, mouses, speakers, fax machines, scanners, modems, cables and power racks.

For a small disposal fee Council is also able to accept and recycle a range of electronic waste like televisions, DVDs, VCRs and sound systems.

As well as E-waste, the Boroondara transfer station accepts motor oils, car and domestic batteries, tyres, light globes, mattresses, paint, gas bottles and disused household appliances (a disposal fee is charged for some items – see City of Boroondara website for details).

The City of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that Council provides a vast array of recycling services and urged residents to take advantage of these.

“Council undertakes weekly household collections for all rigid plastics, glass bottles, aluminium and steel cans, paper and cardboard as well as fortnightly green waste collections and free disposal of green waste on Sundays for residents only,” said Cr Ross.

“Waste sent to landfill contributes to green house emissions so any recycling will help make a greener Boroondara.”

In 2007/08, Council recycled 50 per cent of the total waste generated in the municipality and we are working to improve this rate into the future.

Gardiners Creek Trail Diversion

As part of the State Government’s Monash Freeway widening works, the re-alignment of Gardiners Creek and the development of the Glen Iris Wetland, the Gardiners Creek Trail (shared path) between Tooronga Road and Great Valley Road, will need to be closed to the public for approximately 12 months.

Council recognises the importance of this cycling route and has been actively undertaking consultation with relevant stakeholders to minimise any adverse impacts.
Consultation has included:

• meetings with all stakeholders including Bicycle Victoria, the Boroondara Bicycle Users Group, all project teams and the City of Stonnington;
• advertisements in Page 9 the Progress Leader;
• running editorial in the Boroondara Bulletin (67,000 households);
• installing signage along the path on behalf of the Monash Alliance and Melbourne Water;
• planning to install further signage along the path to reassure riders they are following the correct route on behalf of the Monash Alliance and Melbourne Water; and
• advising Bicycle Victoria prior to the changes and specifying dates of when the changes would occur.

In addition, the Monash Alliance has also undertaken a number of activities to ensure that the local community and bike users were informed of the changes to the path. These activities included installing a variable message sign at the Great Valley Road end of the closure for approximately one month prior to the 15 July and providing traffic controllers to man the diversion points in the peak periods on the first day of the closure. (Additionally, a total of 19 additional signs will be installed at various locations along the detour to assist users. These works are expected to be completed by the end of July 2008).

The alternate route will run along Tooronga Road/Carroll Crescent/Wills Street/Great Valley Road and is considered the most practical solution (see attached plan). This route essentially utilises local and lower order local roads with a 50 km/h speed limit and the on road bicycle lanes on Tooronga Road. The City of Stonnington is also proposing to install traffic calming treatments along Carroll Crescent to encourage motorists to travel more slowly, further enhancing the safety along this section of road. These works have commenced.

The alternative route, which is within the City of Stonnington, was agreed upon by all parties including Bicycle Victoria. The route was chosen because it clearly offered the most direct route and at the same time was the safest option because it avoided the major road network. Some further works were suggested by Bicycle Victoria, however these were not adopted by the City of Stonnington.

Officers from Council are currently liasing with contractors on behalf of the Monash Alliance and Melbourne Water to improve the surface of the ramp connecting the shared pathway to the east side of Tooronga Road. The sealing of the ramp is expected to be completed by the end of July 2008.

Date of Closure: 15 July 2008

Date Reopened: July 2009 (exact date to be confirmed) 

Should you require further information, please contact one of the following:

Melbourne Water
Communications
Ph: 131 722

Monash Freeway Alliance
Communications
Ph: 9834 4700
City of Stonnington

Peter Kyrkylis
Transport & Parking Coordinator
Ph:  8290 3557

City of Boroondara
Customer Service
Ph: 9278 4444

The plan of the Gardiners Creek Trail Detour through City of Stonnington can be viewed here or downloaded below.

A plan showing the extent of works by the Monash Alliance and Melbourne Water can be viewed here downloaded below.

 

Plan of the Gardiners Creek Trail Detour
Download the updated plan of the Gardiners Creek Trail Detour.

Plan of Gardiners Creek Trail works
Download the plan of the Gardiners Creek Trail works by the Monash Alliance and Melbourne Water.

Glenferrie earmarked for ‘Safe City Taxi Rank’

The City of Boroondara is set to establish a Safe City Taxi Rank (SCTR) in Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn in a bid to improve safety in the area.

The move follows a $55,000 grant from the State Government to fund the taxi rank which will be manned by two security staff, possible lighting as well as seating and crowd control devices to maintain orderly taxi queues.

The Safe City Taxi Rank (SCTR) imitative is part of the actions by the Glenferrie Late Night Amenity Working Group represented by Council, traders, residents, Connex and Victoria Police.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that the SCTR program would provide safety for passengers and taxi drivers, as well as contributing to improvements in the area.

“The program will seek to ensure that patrons leaving night-time venues have easy access to a safe taxi ride home.

The program was announced by the Minister for Public Transport on 13 August 2007, based on recommendations from the Taxi Safety Industry Taskforce.

-----------------------
Other Glenferrie Late Night Amenity Working Group actions include:

• Establishment of a formalised process for joint communication with residents, traders, police and Council departments and action on anti-social behaviour with the formation of a Working Group;
• Increased cooperation from venue operators with the installation of new cameras and street and door security;
• Council improvements to parking signage, street lighting, tree care, taxi rank locations, litter collection, street cleaning processes, extra Nightrider bus stops and increased officer patrols;
• A Memorandum of Understanding on the local law regarding open alcohol containers on Council-owned land, is established and being implemented by the police;
• A process established for logging issues and informing police and Council;
• Police have run special operations to prevent problems and respond to hotspots;
• Changes to parking signage in St Columbs Street have been very effective in reducing disturbances;
• Dialogue is occurring with Connex on issues around Glenferrie Railway Station; and
• A Pilot Youth Outreach project will be initiated for three months to collect information on the profile, extent, nature and locations of anti-social behaviour in the Glenferrie precinct.

Glenferrie Road closures

Transurban and VicRoads announced this week that in order to carry out works on CityLink as part of the M1 upgrade, a small section of Glenferrie Road will be temporarily closed overnight in coming weeks.

As stated on the Monash-CityLink-WestGate upgrade website, there will be some temporary traffic arrangements in place on Glenferrie Road from 10pm until 5am on:

Monday 4 August until Thursday 7 August (inclusive)

Further works on CityLink will also require temporary traffic arrangements to be in place on Glenferrie Road between 10pm and 5am on:

Tuesday 12 August until Friday 15 August (inclusive)

Visit the project website at www.mcwupgrade.com.au for more information.

Glenferrie Road closure detour route

Greythorn Park Sports Pavilion

The new Greythorn Park sports pavilion will be officially unveiled on Sunday 27 July 2008 at Alpha Street, North Balwyn at 12.00pm by the Mayor of the City of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross, Ward Councillor Nicholas Tragas and resident clubs - Greythorn Falcons Junior Football Club and the Koonung Heights Cricket Club.

The pavilion was identified as part of Council’s building renewal program.

The improvements to the refurbished pavilion include:

• A disability access toilet that is open to all park users from dawn to dusk
• Improved kitchen/kiosk space for tenant clubs so that the volunteers in the kiosk can now interact with all patrons and at the same time watch the sporting activity
• Installation of a large viewing window allowing spectators to view the sporting activity in poor weather
• Two large new change room areas
• A multi-purpose area that can be used for change rooms, social rooms or community meeting spaces

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that consultation was undertaken with the resident sporting clubs and the Special Committee to achieve the best possible outcome for all sportsground users.

“We have ensured that we have also included disability access to the public toilet to ensure that the wider community benefits from the upgrade,” said Cr Ross.

“The project has used the renewal of an existing asset to produce a functional space without the added cost of a full rebuild.”

Ward Councillor, Nicholas Tragas said that opening of the new pavilion was an exciting event.

“It’s a fabulous new facility that will serve our local sporting groups for many years to come.”

The $400,000 works are the result of the 2007 / 2008 Capital Works Program.

Hard Rubbish Collection

The dates for the 2008 collection are available online by clicking on the link below. 

To minimise local amenity issues, hard waste should be placed out for collection no more than one week prior to your scheduled collection day.

What can be included in the hard rubbish collection?

The hard rubbish collection helps residents dispose of waste not accepted in the normal waste collections. Wherever possible, materials are recycled resulting in a reduction in the amount of waste going to landfill.

Items that are collected as part of the hard waste collection include:

• metals and whitegoods including
  washing machines,
• fridges and dishwashers, (for safety reasons doors should be removed from fridges and freezers;
• wood (not including fencing);
• disused household appliances;
• furniture;
• and small car parts.

All materials left out for collection must not exceed 1.5 metres in length. Scrap metal will be collected separately for recycling.

What can’t be included in the hard rubbish collection?

The following items will not be collected as part of the hard rubbish service:

• green waste;
• building materials;
• builders’ rubble or debris from renovations;
• fencing;
• hazardous chemicals;
• paint;
• liquid waste;
• asbestos;
• gas and BBQ cylinders;
• car tyres; and
• recyclables such as paper and bottles.

Think twice before placing unwanted items out for the hard rubbish collection

Do your part for the environment and recycle your unwanted items.  The Boroondara Transfer Station provides recycling facilities for:

• computer equipment (free)
• TV's, audio/visual equipment
• mattresses
• light globes (free)
• paint (free)
• gas cylinders (free)
• other items

For more information, please call 9278 4444. 

Hawthorn Craft Market - Relocation

From July through to September the Hawthorn Craft Market will temporarily be relocating to Melbourne University, Hawthorn Campus.

Indigenous Heritage Study

Please note:  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander users are warned that information contained in this website may contain images of deceased persons.

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Council acknowledges the traditional owners of Boroondara the Wurundjeri and pays respect to their Elders and to Elders from other communities.

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Council would like to acknowledge the following organisations for their assistance in the development of the Indigenous Heritage Study:

• Wurundjeri Tribe Land Compensation and Cultural Heritage Council Inc.
• Rotary Club of Balwyn
• Aboriginal Affairs Victoria
• Terra Culture (report prepared by)

Further information

Full details of Boroondara’s Indigenous Heritage Study are available from the municipal libraries, by contacting Leisure and Cultural Services on 9278 4770 or by downloading a copy of the report below.

Kew Courthouse Update

Roof restoration works at the Kew Courthouse and Police Station are poised to commence, but now face considerable delay, with the Federal Government’s decision to reverse the previous government’s approval of a $330,000 contribution to the project.
 
The City of Boroondara received a surprise letter from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government that the project had failed to demonstrate that works had already commenced or that the project fulfilled the criteria of the Regional Development Grant program.

Mayor of Boroondara Councillor Coral Ross said the decision had come as a shock to all parties involved with the project, in particular VATMI Industries, who have been on board since May 2008 and were looking forward to having a new and improved space for their artists.

“We are hopeful that the grant will be reinstated as groups like VATMI are reliant on funding to participate in the project,” the Mayor said.

Cr Ross said that Council had written to The Hon Gary Gray MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development and Northern Australia and The Hon Bill Shorten, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Service seeking their assistance to have the grant reinstated.

Cr Ross said the project would provide exhibition space and ongoing employment opportunities for people with disabilities which she understands to be a priority for the Government.
 
“This is an exciting project. The vision for the Kew Courthouse is to create a cultural hub for all people in Boroondara,” said Cr Ross.

Cr Ross welcomed the generous contribution of $250,000 from Heritage Victoria for restoration of the roof and hoped that delays would be minimal.

An independent consultant has submitted the Arts Strategy for Boroondara, and highly commends the Courts as a place for the performing and visual arts. (To see the Arts Strategy please visit www.boroondara.vic.gov.au and search under ‘Arts Strategy’).

Boroondara Citizen of the Year, Peter Allen, has joined with Professor Peter McIntyre to help raise $1.5 million in corporate support.

Kindergarten enrolment - offers out for 2009

The Boroondara Kindergarten Central Enrolment System (BKCES) has now posted out kindergarten offers to all parents who have applied for three and four year old kindergarten in 2009.

For details on the process and answers to many frequently asked questions, click here.

Kindergarten Open Days 2008

A number of the City of Boroondara's kindergartens will be having Open Days in May and August this year. The table below lists some of these kindergartens and the days they will be open to the community. Please be aware that some Kindergartens do not schedule an Open Day.  You are welcome to contact these Kindergartens to make an appointment to visit at your convenience.

If you are unable to attend a particular Open Day, please contact the Kindergarten directly to arrange a time to visit. Details of all kindergartens in Boroondara are available on Council’s website, or by telephoning 9278 4444.

Kindergarten	Phone No.	2008 Open Day
Alfred Road Kindergarten	9889 4038	Saturday 10 May 10pm - 1pm
Auburn South Preschool	9821 0190	Saturday 16 February
Bellevue Kindergarten Association Inc.	9859 6000	By Appointment
Boroondara Preschool	9857 6159	Saturday 17 May 10am - 12pm
Canterbury and District Preschool	9836 0016	Saturday 17 May 10am - 1pm
Canterbury Norwood Baptist Kindergarten	9836 0305	Saturday 24 May 10am - 12pm
Cara Armstrong Kindergarten	9882 5908	Tuesday 3 June 9.45am - 11.15am, 1.15pm - 2.45pm
Estrella Preschool	9885 5398	Sunday 10 August 10am - 12pm
Fordham Avenue Kindergarten	9836 9341	Re-scheduled- Saturday 24 May, 10am - 12pm
Glen Iris Rd Uniting Church Kindergarten	9885 5798	Saturday 24 May 10.00am - 12.00pm
JJ McMahon Kindergarten	9817 3624	Saturday 24 May 11.00am - 1.00pm
Manresa Kindergarten	9818 6628	By Appointment
The Merrell Kindergarten	9859 1259	12-16 May Tours by Appointment. Wednesday 14 May  7:30pm Information Evening
Robert Cochrane Kindergarten	9818 1063	Sunday 31 August 10am - 12pm
Rowen Street Kindergarten	9889 7996	Saturday 17 May 10am - 12pm
St Columba’s Day Kindergarten	9836 3939	Saturday 10 May 11am - 1pm
St Paul’s Anglican Kindergarten	9830 5869	Saturday 31 May 10am - 12pm
Summerhill Park Kindergarten	9889 1543	Saturday 17 May 10am - 12pm
Surrey Hills Preschool	9836 4902	Everyday is Open Day
West Hawthorn Preschool	9818 5153	Saturday 23 February
Yongala Preschool	9817 4939	Saturday 17 May 10am - 12pm

Living For Our Future Program

Residents are invited to the next round of Living for our Future workshops, which will be held from September to December. 
These free interactive workshops provide practical eco tips that are simple, efficient and don’t cost the earth. Learn how to ‘think green’ when it comes to house cleaning, saving water and reducing domestic energy bills. Participants will also receive free product samples and enjoy delicious organic refreshments at every workshop.

The workshop topics are:

• Water in the home and garden
• Energy in the home
• Green cleaning and healthy homes

Council also hosts a new series of Green Seminars that are ideal for people who are thinking of taking the next step toward sustainable living. The seminars provide more specific, technical and individually-tailored information on a range of topics such as installing solar power in the home.

These one-off seminars will feature a range of expert presenters, and attendees will be able to obtain independent advice from service providers in the accompanying trade show display.

The seminar topics are:

• Green homes and renovations
• Solar solutions for the home
• Green vehicles and sustainable transport

The program is run by Council, in partnership with the National Centre for Sustainability at Swinburne University.

It is also sponsored by Sustainability Victoria, VISY and Melbourne Water.

You can either register to attend as an individual, or you can submit an expression of interest for your community group/ school parents' associations to host the program at their venue. 

Each workshop will have a maximum of 40 participants, each who are encouraged to attend one of each of the four different workshops. 

Early registration is encouraged to ensure you receive a place. More workshops may be scheduled if there is sufficient interest.

Please call our Environmental Planning team on 9278 4347 or livingforfuture@boroondara.vic.gov.au if you have any enquiries on the Living for our Future program.

New leadership at the City of Boroondara

The Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Phillip Healey today announced that Council has resolved to appoint Catherine Dale as the City’s next Chief Executive Officer. Ms Dale will commence the appointment on 4 February 2008.

Ms Dale has extensive experience in local government, and is currently appointed as Chief Executive at the City of Bayside. She was formerly the CEO of Nillumbik Shire Council and held the position of Director Planning and Economic Development at the City of Boroondara from 1995-1999.

Cr Healey said Ms Dale has a strong affinity with the local community and an understanding of the valued attributes of the area.

“Catherine has a proven record in the areas of community engagement, financial management, urban and environmental management and community planning,” Cr Healey said.

“Council is confident that we have appointed a Chief Executive with the unique mix of attributes and experience appropriate for this local government.”

Council unanimously agreed to appoint Ms Dale at a special Council meeting on Thursday 1 November, following an extensive recruitment search. A team of Boroondara Councillors, known as the Leadership Transition Committee (LTC), oversaw the recruitment process and were supported by representatives from SACS Consulting.

“Council completed a thorough, open-market recruitment and through this process, we have selected an excellent Chief Executive to take Boroondara into the future,” Cr Healey said.

“We were impressed by the field of more than 100 candidates who applied for this position, with both the number and quality of candidates as testament that this is a coveted role in local government.”

Cr Healey also took the opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of the incumbent Chief Executive, Peter Johnstone. Mr Johnstone advised Councillors last year that he would not be seeking a further renewal of his contract.

“By next year, Peter will have been CEO at Boroondara for nine years and he has decided it is time to pursue other career interests,” Cr Healey said.

“This timing will enable Catherine to be in place well before the 2008 Council election and we now look forward to a seamless leadership transition.”

The City of Boroondara is one of the largest local governments in Victoria with more than 158,000 residents in 62,000 households and community assets of almost $1.7 billion. Council’s annual Budget of $152 million in 2006/07 and delivers more than 150 services to the community.

Profile - Catherine Dale

Catherine Dale, 51, will begin a four year contract as the City of Boroondara’s Chief Executive Officer on 4 February 2008. 

Ms Dale is an experienced CEO with 18 years of working in local government.

Ms Dale recently completed a Doctor of Philosophy thesis which explored the role of Victorian local government. With a range of other qualifications including a Masters of Business Administration (Monash University) and Masters of Education (Melbourne University), Catherine brings a wealth of organisational management experience, including expertise in interaction and consultation with communities on a wide variety of local level issues.
 
Ms Dale also holds a number of strategic advisory roles including board member of the State Library Victoria, Montsalvat Ltd and as a member of the Reference Group for the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability.

She has received a number of accolades for her work in the public sector, including the Andrews Walls Scholarship for Institute Municipal Management, and was a finalist in the Telstra Businesswomen’s Award in 2004. Ms Dale has also received a Monash University Award for Best Research Project, and has published a book entitled ‘Corporate Planning in Local Government’.

Nominations for Victorian Senior of the Year

The Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year celebrates and recognises the talents, achievements and contributions senior Victorians make to their communities.
Each person nominated for the Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year is also considered for:

• Council on the Ageing Victoria Senior Achiever Awards.
• ‘Go for your life’ Senior Achiever Award.
• Council on the Ageing Victorian Senior Achiever Awards.

The 2008 Awards will be presented at a reception at Government House on Friday 3 October 2008.

Nomination forms are available from Seniors Information Victoria. Phone 1300 135 090 (local call cost) or download the Nomination Form and the Information Brochure.

To be eligible, nominees must be residents of Victoria aged 60 years and over.
 
Nominations close on Sunday 10 August 2008.

Online Enquiry Forms

Work is currently in progress to resolve technical difficulties relating to ALL online enquiry forms.

We anticipate that this matter will resolved shortly.

In the meantime, we would ask you to resubmit any form or feedback via email on boroondara@boroondara.vic.gov.au or by phone on 9278 4444.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

Results due on freeway testing

The City of Boroondara is due to receive the results of air and noise tests taken along the Eastern and M1 freeways within the next few weeks. 

The test results will assist in understanding the extent of greenhouse gas emissions being produced as a result of upgrades to both freeways.

Testing sites include:

M1 freeway
 •  Kaikoura Ave, East Hawthorn
 •  Nicholas St, Ashburton
 •  Saxby Rd, Glen Iris
 •  Reserve Rd, Hawthorn

Eastern freeway
 •  Willow Gve, Kew
 •  O'Brien Ct, Kew
 •  Koonung St, Balwyn Nth

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that Council had been advocating on behalf of the Boroondara community on noise and air pollution for many months.

“Council knows this issue is a major community priority. We have therefore commissioned consultants to collect hard data on air and noise quality to ensure that we can continue to advocate this matter in an informed way,” said Cr Ross.

“The readings were undertaken before the opening of Eastlink and during the first stages of construction of the M1 project but we also intend to do further testing down the track.

“The readings will be also used to gauge the impact of additional traffic generated long the Eastern Freeway (following the connection with Eastlink) and the M1 project following the upgrade to this freeway.”

Council has approved an allocation for the testing in the new budget.

Retesting of both freeways is proposed in late September or early October.

Saving Boroondara’s Historic Civic Buildings

Plans are now finalised to save the City of Boroondara’s heritage civic buildings and deliver urgent upgrades to address workplace health and safety regulations.

Under the Boroondara Civic Precincts Renewal (BCPR) plan, Council will renew the 1891-built town hall, 1924 and 1925-built municipal office, demolish the 1958 additions and replace these with a new building, refurbish the building at 8 Inglesby Road in Camberwell and refurbish the ground floor office space at Hawthorn.

The project will be completed over the next two years, starting in March, with a guaranteed maximum total price (GMP) $20M which Council will fund within the existing budget.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said the City of Boroondara was addressing a similar challenge that every Victorian local government had inherited following the amalgamations of the 1990s.

“There is an urgent need to address the issues of appropriate civic accommodation. The current civic buildings no longer serve the needs of our modern community,” Cr Ross said.

“To this end, Council has adopted a considered ‘adaptive re-use’ approach and is retro-fitting the existing buildings to adjust them to meet the current needs of the community and modern demands.”

“The works will be funded from within the current budget considerations and will not impact rates unless the design plans change dramatically.

“In fact, as the project will enable some consolidation of council administration activities at the one complex of buildings, this will result in an additional annual rental of $200,000 being generated at the Hawthorn offices.”

Overall, the Civic Precincts Renewal project will:

• Be fully funded from within Council’s provision for asset renewal;
• Create additional community spaces and provide better access to civic areas;
• Restore a major heritage and civic asset for the City of Boroondara;
• Provide better customer service areas;
• Use environmentally sustainable materials;
• Introduce lighting and heating efficiencies as well as water conservation; and
• Ensure occupational health and safety within the work environment.

Cr Ross called the project “a critical investment for the future of the community.”
 
“Council has taken a best value approach and considered all feasible options in finalising the CPR design plan," said Cr Ross.

“This work is an imperative for Council. It is required to ensure that the buildings meet modern safety and accessibility requirements for both staff and the community.  Preserving our heritage buildings is a major priority for Council. We are investing in this project rather than risking the longer term costs of maintenance on these building or worse still losing these priceless heritage landmarks forever.”

Skate and BMX Comp

Skating and BMX enthusiasts are able to impress with their tricks and flips on Saturday 1 March at the annual Skate and BMX Competition, Junction Skate Park, Hawthorn.

The competition, which is open to young people aged 12 – 25 years of age, will host age-division heats and finals throughout the entire day.

The competition will be judged by local skating and BMX identities and feature great prizes and giveaways including skating decks and street wear.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that the event was a unique event for young people to have some fun.

“The event, now in its fifth year running, is one of seven great events throughout the year by young people, for young people,” said Cr Ross.

“The Skate and BMX Comp in 2008 attracted over 250 spectators and we can expect an even bigger crowd this year with the addition of live musical talent.”

“The competition is open to boys and girls of every level so I encourage everyone to come along and have some fun.”

The 2008 Skate and BMX Competition will be jam packed with all sorts of things to see and do:

• The Competition will run all day (for guys and girls of all levels)
• Free giveaways and prizes
• Sponsor stalls and displays
• A sausage sizzle
• Food and drinks for sale
• Live tunes
• Great talent!

The event is a drug, alcohol and smoke free event hosted by the Boroondara Youth Service’s 3Phase Committee, Council’s Youth and Leisure Services departments and the YMCA.

Local businesses, Bladeworx , Hakan, Ashburton Cycles, Metric, Hungry Jacks YMCA and Freeza, are sponsoring the event. The event is free to the public with a small donation for entry to the contest.

Event Details:
What: Skate and BMX Competition
Where: Junction Skate and BMX Park, Riversdale Road, Hawthorn (Melways 45 H12)
When: Saturday 1st March, 2008, 12-5pm, (Participants can register from 10am or in the week leading up to the event)

Entry will be via gold coin donation. For more information please contact Georgina Crawford, Youth Services Outreach Worker on 9882 2621 or georgina.crawford@boroondara.vic.gov.au.

SouthernLink Upgrade - Upcoming closures

The SouthernLink section of the Monash-CityLink-West Gate upgrade includes the construction of an additional operating lane in each direction from the eastern Burnley and Domain tunnel portals, to where CityLink joins the Monash freeway just east of Glenferrie Road.

Closures will be occurring throughout August and information on these closures can be found below. Streets particularly affected include:

• Gibdon Street (16 to 18 August);
• Batman Avenue (17 August);
• CityLink, Outbound Carriageway, from Burnley Tunnel Exit Portal to East of Glenferrie Road (17 August); and
• CityLink, Inbound Carriageway, from East of Glenferrie Road to Cremorne Street (18 August).

For more information about the Monash-CityLink-West Gate upgrade, go to:  http://www.mcwupgrade.com.au/

To read more news about other closures, go to here.

Gibdon Street closures
Download a PDF with information on the Gibdon Street closure for 16 to 18 August 2008.

Batman Avenue closures
Download a PDF with information on the Batman Avenue closure for 17 August 2008.

CityLink, Outbound Carriageway closure
Download a PDF with information on the CityLink, Outbound Carriageway, from Burnley Tunnel Exit Portal to East of Glenferrie Road closure for 17 August 2008.

CityLink, Inbound Carriageway closure
Download a PDF with information on the CityLink, Inbound Carriageway, from East of Glenferrie Road to Cremorne Street on 18 August 2008.

Lane Closure - 22 to 24 August 08
Download a PDF with information on lane closures for 22 to 24 August 2008.

Lane Closure - 26 to 29 August 08
Download a PDF with information on lane closures for 26 to 29 August 2008.

Yarra Blvd exit ramp closure
Download a PDF with information on Yarra Blvd exit ramp closure.

Yarra Blvd - Inbound
Download a PDF with information on Yarra Blvd exit ramp closure - inbound.

Yarra Blvd - Outbound
Download a PDF with information on Yarra Blvd exit ramp closure - outbound.

Town Hall Gallery: artists and poets team up

The exhibition opening of Team Up at the Town Hall Gallery will be presented at the August Boroondara Soiree on Thursday 7 August.

The exhibition features visual art pieces from young artists who are members of the Art Nerds group, who have partnered with a professional artist in a mentoring relationship over many months.

Each young artist has gained insight into the professional artist’s career, artistic practice and inspiration.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said the exhibition was a wonderful example of creative talent and community spirit coming together.

“Established artists have generously donated their time and energy to fruitfully inspire the best of our emerging local artists.

“I would urge art lovers to come along and support these young people in their artistic endeavours.”

It continues until Saturday 30 August and is open from 12pm to 5pm, Wednesdays to Saturdays at the Town Hall Gallery, rear lower level of Hawthorn Town Hall, 360 Burwood Road, Hawthorn.

For literary enthusiasts, three contemporary poets from Queensland will feature at the opening – David Stavanger, Nathan Shepherdson and Ghostboy.

Matt Hetherington will be the master of ceremonies. The opening will be held on Thursday 7 August, from 6pm to 8pm.

Literary readings will commence at 8.15pm (arrive at 8pm to register for open readings). Tickets at the door.

For more information, please call 9278 4770 or visit Council’s website.

Update on the Kindergarten Central Enrolment Scheme

The City of Boroondara in conjunction with 19 Boroondara kindergartens has recently created the Boroondara Kindergarten Central Enrolment Scheme.

The Council-managed Boroondara Kindergarten Central Enrolment Scheme (BKCES) is operated on behalf of the 19 community-managed kindergartens which participate in the scheme, and commenced receiving applications on 1 February 2008.

Mayor of Boroondara, Councillor Coral Ross said that already the benefits of kindergarten central enrolment are being seen.

“Families wishing to enrol at one of the participating kindergartens have benefited because they only need to complete one form in which they detail their first, second and third kindergarten preference.

“Administration of applications and liaison with families applying for kindergarten in 2009 by Council staff has significantly reduced the work-load and duplication of effort by voluntary committees across Boroondara.

“In the initial stage of the allocation process the number of calls to Council from families wishing to clarify the process has been high. Council has endeavoured a 24-hour turn around response to telephone calls.

“An added benefit of central enrolment is also the ability to obtain clear planning data that will inform the demand for kindergarten in the municipality and provide opportunities for Council to advocate to the State Government for additional capital and operational funding to ensure programs are provided that can meet demand. This can only be achieved if all Boroondara community-managed kindergartens participate in the scheme, however at this stage not all 30 community managed kindergartens are participating.”

The scheme is administered by a central enrolment officer employed by Council, and works with the Boroondara Kindergarten Central Enrolment Scheme Advisory Group (comprising representatives of each participating kindergarten) on the development and implementation of policies.

“First Round Offers for 3-year-old and 4-year-old places at kindergarten in 2009 were sent to families on Friday 1 August 2008,” said Cr Ross.

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Wetland to solve irrigation challenge

The City of Boroondara will contribute half million dollars to a new $1.79M wetlands on the 1.7 hectare site of a former bowls club in the suburb of Glen Iris.

The wetland, will provide major improvements to stormwater quality entering Gardiners Creek, create a haven for native flora and fauna and provide passive open space for residents to enjoy a range of recreation activities.

The project responds to Boroondara’s environment strategy which advocates for the catchment, cleansing and deployment of rain water.

Mayor of Boroondara said that the wetlands will have the capacity to treat water to a quality suitable to irrigate Borooondara’s sports ovals saving tens of thousands of dollars each year.

“Since the introduction of stage three water restrictions Council has been spending around $1M transporting recycled water from outside the municipality to water its sportsgrounds,” said Cr Ross.

“The installation of an underground water tank to store the treated water from the wetlands will allow the water to be reused within the municipality also reducing Council’s carbon footprint.”

“Council is always seeking creative solutions to improve our drought management and reducing the impact of climate change.

“Council has a responsibility to preserve our native animals and plants. This project ensures that we do this for the enjoyment of our community now, and for future generations.” 

A second wetland, the Koonung Creek wetland in the suburb of North Balwyn, will also be upgraded and improved to make it a permanent landscaped water feature that will also filter stormwater runoff.

Melbourne Water and property group, Stockland, are also contributing to the Glen Iris Wetlands.

‘Keys Please’ session at Balwyn Library

There is now free help at hand for Learner drivers and their parents.

As part of the City of Boroondara’s commitment to responsible road management and public safety the Balwyn Library will be hosting the Keys Please program.

The VicRoads initiative is an informative and interactive forum run by trained facilitators covering the various skills needed when learning to drive.

Parents and guardians will also get valuable tips.

The session at Balwyn Library is free but bookings are essential. Please contact any of our libraries to book a place.

Wednesday 30 July, 7.00-8.30pm
Balwyn Library
336 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn
Phone: 9278 4644 or book online at www.boroondara.vic.gov.au/library

Archived Media Releases from the City of Boroondara

Read all the previous 'Latest News' Announcments in our Media Release's section