wyndham news
DESCRIPTION
Wyndham News is a community newsletter delivered to all Wyndham households bi-monthly.TRANSCRIPT
Wyndham comes alive in Spring
Wyndham News
Inside• BudgetAdopted• MillionsinContractsAwarded• NationalReadingHour
• Wyndham’sthePlacetobe• TheViewfromTruganina• DumpingSuccess
• ArtsandCultureStrategy• LivingLongerandStronger• What’sOninWyndham
August 2012
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Your Councillors
I recently attended the Australian Local Governance Association Congress in Canberra where the key speaker, Phillip Adams, talked about how important it is for people to connect locally.
People want to get up close and personal with what is happening in their communities, and Local Government plays an important role in this – both now and into the future. Representing our local community is one of the most important things I do as Mayor, and I was pleased to be part of several high level discussions as part of the conference. Cr Menegazzo and I spoke to Tom Bentley, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, and urged support from the Prime Minister’s office for the continuation of the ‘Jobs in Suburbs’ initiative in some form and in closer collaboration with the Minister for Employment. We also continued to advocate to the Prime Minister on the development of the Werribee Employment Precinct with a primary focus on employment. The Age recently urged the government to develop a new city between Melbourne and Geelong and Wyndham has been referred to by the State Government as the capital of Melbourne’s new west – and we have
Mayor’s Messagethe space and willingness to make that happen in the Werribee Employment Precinct. The State Government owns a large tract of land here which could house over 40,000 jobs. Wyndham City, as the Local Government authority, is ready and waiting to help build this new area and wait in anticipation of action from the State Government. We discussed with the Prime Minister’s office the implications of changes to Technical and Further Education in Victoria and the operation of Commonwealth funded Trade Training Centres. Wyndham Councillors also spoke to staff in the office of Mental Health Minister Mark Butler about initiatives to address mental health issues and with staff in the office of Sports Minister Kate Lundy about the financial pressures Council faces in providing enough sporting infrastructure for our community.
Mayor, Cr Kim McAliney JP
Cr Adele HegedichChaffey WardPh/Fax: 9731 7593Mob: 0400 667 [email protected]
Cr Shane Bourke JPChaffey WardPh/Fax: 9974 0638Mob: 0400 659 396 [email protected]
Cr Marcel MahfoudChaffey WardPh/Fax: 8360 7461Mob: 0418 538 [email protected]
Cr Bob FaircloughTruganina WardPh/Fax: 9974 6824 Mob: 0409 408 [email protected]
Cr Kim McAliney JPMayorTruganina WardPh/Fax: 9974 6505Mob: 0439 377 [email protected]
Cr Glenn GoodfellowDeputy MayorTruganina WardPh: 9748 0486Mob: 0429 959 [email protected]
Cr Heather MarcusIramoo WardPh: 9974 1127 Fax: 9731 7073Mob: 0400 533 [email protected]
Cr Cynthia MansonIramoo WardPh/Fax: 9742 7317Mob: 0400 863 [email protected]
Cr John MenegazzoIramoo WardPh: 9741 7123 Fax: 9741 7122 Mob: 0400 037 [email protected]
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Cr Adele HegedichChaffey WardPh/Fax: 9731 7593Mob: 0400 667 [email protected]
Cr Marcel MahfoudChaffey WardPh/Fax: 8360 7461Mob: 0418 538 [email protected]
The 2012/2013 budget includes an average residential rates increase of 5.5 per cent, a municipal charge of $39.35 and a garbage charge of $242. The garbage charge, which has been impacted by both the increase in the State Government EPA levy from $44 per tonne to $48.40 per tonne and the carbon tax, has been reduced from $254.25 as outlined in the proposed budget to $242.
This is due to the development of a clearer understanding of the financial impacts of the carbon tax.The $83.9 million capital works budget incorporates $29.54 million for roads and pavements, $12.04 million for open space and $35.87 million for buildings.To view the 2012/2013 budget, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
Wyndham City 2012/2013 budget adopted
Tarneit Road
This year Wyndham City will work to duplicate Tarneit Road
from The Good Shepard School to south of Sayers Road.
The project includes two new north bound lanes, upgrades
to the existing south bound pavement, new traffic signals
at the intersection of Tarneit Road and Bethany Road,
landscaping and relocating underground services.
The project will improve safety and traffic flow on Tarneit
Road and is part of Wyndham City’s program to upgrade
and duplicate main roads as land and funds become
available. Construction on the road is expected to begin late
September and to be completed in March 2013. Work will
begin to relocate underground services in August.
Wootten Rd PavilionIn September works will begin on the Wootten Rd Pavilion, which is due to be complete in April 2013 at a cost of $3.34 million. The new facility will be home to a football club with a social room, four change rooms and a change room for referees, plus a kitchen and toilets, including a disabled accessible public toilet available to non-club users of the reserve. Tennis will also be housed there with a social room, change rooms, kitchen and storage. The project includes 120 car spaces, lighting, footpaths and landscaping.
BudgetWyndham City has adopted its 2012/2013 budget, including a capital works budget of $83.9 million, $1.11 million for new initiatives and a reduction in the proposed garbage charge.
From new community centres to sporting pavilions, Wyndham City has spent the last few months awarding contracts for new community infrastructure projects:• The Nicol Group was awarded the
$2.19 million contract for the construction of the Haines Drive Sports Pavilion and car park.
• The Nicol Group were also awarded the $913,737 contract for the construction of a third kindergarten room at Featherbrook Community Centre.
• Ace Infrastructure was awarded the $1.39 million contract for the construction of a section of the Werribee River shared path and pedestrian boardwalk between Cottrell Street and Wyndham Park.
• Streetscapes was awarded the $3.47 million contract for landscape construction at Saltwater Reserve.
• Excell Gray Bruni was awarded the $870,748 contract for the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Dohertys and Tarneit Roads.
• Dura Constructions was awarded the $8.7 million contract for the construction of Penrose Promenade Community Hub.
These projects, which total over $17.5 million, are part of the City’s $106 million capital works budget for 2011/2012.
They not only cover a wide range of facilities, from roads to bike paths, they also cover the City from Point Cook to Wyndham Vale. Wyndham City is committed to providing new infrastructure
for our rapidly expanding community and upgrading existing facilities in our established suburbs.Wyndham City’s 2012/2013 capital works Budget includes $83.83 million in major projects for the year ahead.For more information on Wyndham’s capital works projects, contact the City on 9742 0777 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
A new Driving is Not a Game billboard is now at the intersection of Heaths and Derrimut Roads, one of our busiest intersections, and features a cartoon from Herald Sun cartoonist Mark Knight.We want to make young motorists think about their driving practice, including speeding and hoon behaviour, as there are real consequences to errors in judgement and practice.
So stay safe when you are driving and remember – driving is not a game.
Millions in contractsawarded in Wyndham City
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Driving is Not a Game
Mayor, Cr Kim McAliney
Featherbrook Community Centre
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Wyndham City’s pooches have some new places to play with the release of the new dog off lead areas throughout the City.The 15 off lead areas are the result of months of consultation with pet owners and residents and include:• The sports oval on the corner of Prudence Parade and Malibu
Boulevard in Alamanda Estate, Point Cook for a 12 month trial period; • A purpose built dog off lead park in Saltwater Reserve, Point Cook
(planned to open in mid-2013); • Southern side of Baden Powell Drive, bound by Baden Powell
College, the Creek and Derrimut Road except from 8-9.30am and 3-4.30pm Monday to Friday.
The off-lead area near Skeleton Creek has been removed and Werribee South has been altered due to works at the Wyndham Harbour Marina.Wyndham City will also implement other changes as the result of community feedback. Improved signage and rubbish bins will be introduced over the coming months at a number of off lead sites and pet waste bags can now be picked up from libraries and the Wyndham Civic Centre.For a full list of Wyndham’s dog off lead areas, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
What’s the right pet for you?Wyndham City encourages residents to consider what animal is right for them before heading to the Lost Dogs Home or the pet store.
DogsWhat sort of dog are you looking for? Is it a high or low energy dog? How many hours a week can you spend exercising and grooming your new family member? How many hours a week do you work? These are some of the questions you should ask yourself and your family before you purchase a dog. Dogs have a lifespan between 10-16 years, so there is a lot to consider. One of the most frequent complaints to Wyndham City is about barking dogs. Dogs bark for all sorts of reasons including boredom and separation anxiety. Please take the time to do some research about the new addition to your family before you make that purchase. Speak to family members, friends and obtain as much information as you can before you choose.
BirdsDid you know that you must have a permit for your cockatoo or galah? Wyndham’s Local Law 16 requires residents to have a permit to keep birds such as cockatoos, corellas, galahs and peacocks. These birds can be a neighbourhood nuisance if not well managed. The Permit conditions may require the bird to be kept inside between the times of 3pm-9am. These are the most reported times these birds are known to screech and cause a nuisance to neighbours. Cockatoos can live up to 70 years and enjoy being part of a family with interaction, so it is important to keep that in mind when considering if you should purchase these types of birds. A budgie or a canary might be a better choice for you and your neighbours.
Visit the RSPCA website for more information on choosing the right pet www.rspca.org.auVisit Wyndham City’s website for more information on responsible pet ownership, restrictions on keeping certain pets and information on local vets www.wyndham.vic.gov.au Wyndham City is also hosting a Pet Expo in September, which will feature loads of information for current and potential pet owners. For more information, see page 8 and 9.
Cr Marcel Mahfoud with Tinkerbell
Wyndham’s pups have a new place to play
Wyndham’s blue lidded bins are about to get a whole lot more use, with a new contract increasing the types of waste which can be recycled.Wyndham City has recently signed a new contract with SKM Recycling to receive kerbside recyclables. Now not only paper, cardboard, glass and plastic bottles and jars, steel cans and aluminium can be recycled - also pots and pans, dry and empty paint tins, plastic plant pots, plastic toys and more.There will be no change in the day or process for bin collection, but the change will bring many environmental and economic benefits, including diverting waste from landfill, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and placing less pressure on natural resources to produce virgin materials.Wyndham City is taking part in the Get it Right on Bin Night campaign, which encourages residents to put the appropriate waste in the right bin, so it is recycled or disposed of correctly. Putting waste into a recycling bin or putting recycling into plastic bags may result in the entire load of recycling ending up in landfill, so it’s vital that residents do the right thing when filling their bins.Wyndham City has also recently released a waste and recycling services guide, with a comprehensive overview of how to dispose of everything from aerosol cans to yoghurt containers, how to correctly place your bins in the street and information on the refuse disposal facility.For a full list of things you can place into your recycling bin visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
Blue lid BONUS
Some of Wyndham City’s main buildings are going green with solar panels installed at Werribee CBD and Point Cook Library. Both have been fitted with a 5 kilowatt solar panel system, which will save around 8920.6 kilograms per panel of carbon dioxide emissions each year.Installing the panels is one of many green initiatives which were part of Wyndham City’s 2011/2012 capital works budget, which also included the Public Lighting Energy Management Scoping Study and hosting the first National Grassland Management Conference.The reduction in emissions for both systems was the equivalent of taking eight cars off the road each year. Solar panels save on carbon emissions, but also bring a financial saving as they reduce our energy bills.Educational displays have been created in each of the community learning centres to highlight energy, cost and emissions savings to visitors and provide a clear
demonstration of the benefits of solar power. These facilities were chosen as plenty of community members visit each day and they provide a great place to educate the public on the benefits of Renewable Energy.Wyndham City is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through environmentally friendly initiatives. These include methane
gas capture and storage at our Refuse Disposal Facility and increasing the range of items which can be recycled through kerbside collections.For more information on Wyndham City’s environmental initiatives, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
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Going Green with Solar Panels
Cr Cynthia Manson
The Reading Hour on 25th August will see hundreds of people reading together from 2 to 3pm at Wyndham Libraries. These community events will be held at Point Cook Library, the Plaza Library and Wyndham Vale Library, in conjunction with local Kumon Education Centres, and are part of an Australia-wide effort. Special guests will read aloud from popular children’s books from the library’s collection, which will also be available for families to share on the day. If we read together with our children, for just ‘10 minutes a day’, it gives them a great opportunity to build knowledge, confidence and a love of learning for life.There is no better time than now to visit your local library with your child to take part in this and other events throughout the year – check out the events at your local library at www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/libraries
National Reading Hour
New kid on the block in Watton St
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Cr Heather Marcus with her grandchildren
Craig Toussaint with Cr John Menegazzo
There will be a new kid on the block in Watton Street, with Wyndham City set to open a new office and display suite to promote Werribee as the capital of Melbourne’s new West. The Werribee Development Centre will be home to the Werribee City Place Manager and Wyndham City’s Economic Development Unit and will work to attract new development, investment and businesses.In this strategic location, the new office will feature a promotional display suite and highlight plans for the Werribee City Centre. Residents, businesses and others can keep abreast of plans – from the proposal for a Riverbank Promenade to the Piazza Kiosk. It will also provide our businesses with an accessible place to drop in and discuss their plans and seek advice from Wyndham’s Economic Development Unit.This initiative is one of many services Wyndham City operates for the business community, including hosting business breakfasts, training and business development seminars and a business directory which features a list of all the businesses within the municipality.The Werribee Development Centre is at Shop 2 / 10 Watton Street, Werribee. For more information, contact the Centre on 9742 0777.
Date: Wednesday, 5 to Sunday, 9 September
Expo Sunday, 9 September
Time: 10.00am to 4.00pmCost: The Expo is freeThis annual celebration is a five day event and provides first hand information to the community as tools for change. This year’s program will feature festival favourites such as bus tours, opshop tours, workshops and the Sunday Expo at the Wyndham Civic Centre. Residents will also be able to enjoy new programs to educate, engage and inspire a sustainable community. The free Sunday expo brings together a wide range of exhibitors showcasing their products, services and messages and of course includes the residents free plant giveaway.
Date: Saturday, 11 to Saturday, 25 August
Cost: Some free events
The theme for August Arts 2012 is Home, with many of the exhibitions, markets and programs having a homemade or local theme. As part of August Arts this year nine free events will be held between Saturday August 11th and Saturday August 25th. Now in its sixth year, August Arts showcases a range of artistic mediums. From arts markets to exhibitions, workshops to music concerts, there is something for all ages, interests and abilities to attend and participate in.This event continues to provide a great forum for our artists and community to get involved with our vibrant arts scene. With all events free and something going on across the municipality, there are so many choices. Come and see a movie at our pop up cinema, purchase some art at one of our markets or come along to a youth poetry workshop.For more information or to RSVP for some events, visit www.experiencewyndham.com.au/augustarts or contact our Arts Department on 8734 5468.
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Wyndham’s the Place to beThere’s no reason to be bored in Wyndham over the next few months, with events on across the municipality. From pet owners to green thumbs, children to seniors, there’s something for everyone on Wyndham’s upcoming event calendar. These events are real highlights for the Wyndham community and create a fantastic showcase for our City.For more information come to www.wyndham.vic.gov.au or like our events page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eventsinWyndhamCity to be kept up to date with all of our events.
August ArtsWyndham Sustainability Festival
Date: Sunday, 16 September Time: 10.00am to 3.00pmCost: FreeDoes one of your family members have feathers, fur, scales or hide? Then Wyndham’s annual Pet Expo is the place for you. We have tips, product information, advice from experts, educational seminars, dog obedience display, exotic cat display, competitions, stalls and the opportunity to register and microchip your pet. A great family fun day out, the Expo will also feature plenty for the human family members with a petting zoo and jumping castle.Wyndham Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee. For more information contact the Wyndham Major Events team on [email protected] or phone 9742 0777.
Date: Sunday, 7 to Sunday, 14 October
Cost: Some free eventsThe Victorian Seniors Festival celebrates the inspiring contribution of older Victorians.
This year, the Festival celebrates its 30th year, with Wyndham City running many free and low cost events open to all seniors in Wyndham.Events include the luncheon and concert, multicultural morning tea, education seminar, Police band concert and Seniors Walk. This is a great opportunity for our older people to get together, enjoy some food and music and make some new friends.Tickets for the events go on sale next month and with last year’s program so popular, many sold out. For more information, contact Wyndham City’s Aged and Disability Unit on 9742 0833.
Date: Sunday, 14 October Time: 11am to 5pmCost: FreePoint Cook’s biggest celebration is on again, with thousands expected to line the streets for the 2012 Fiesta. The Point Cook Fiesta is a great day out for the whole family with stalls, rides, a baby animal farm, face painting, food, performances and Wyndham’s Street Surfer Bus.The event is totally free and a terrific opportunity check out the Point Cook Community Learning Centre, which will also
be open as part of the Fiesta. The streets of the town centre will be closed to traffic, however all parking lots will be accessible.For more information, contact the centre on 9395 6399 or email [email protected]
Date: Sunday, 21 OctoberTime: 10.00am to 4pmCost: FreeThe spectacular grounds of Werribee Park will once again come alive for Wyndham’s annual Children’s Week Picnic. Children of all ages will be entertained with an array of fun and unique activities that aim to inspire, expand imaginations, excite discovery, encourage physical movement and provide lots of fun! So, gather your family and friends, pack your picnic baskets and enjoy the exciting line up of entertainment in the lush green lawns and stunning surrounds of the historic Mansion.
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Wyndham’s the Place to be
Pet Expo
Children’s Week Picnic at Werribee Park
Seniors Festival
Point Cook Fiesta
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Ever wondered what life’s like as a Councillor? This is your chance to find out the views of Wyndham’s Councillors and what it’s like to be in local government.
The View from Truganina
Councillor Glenn and Bob
Cr Bob Fairclough
What are some of Truganina’s hidden secrets?
The Federation Trail and other pathways along Skelton Creek
and other waterways – they provide families with a great
opportunity to enjoy walking and cycling close to wetlands and
parklands. Other facilities that not all of our residents are aware
of include the Yarambooee, Point Cook, Arndell Park, Jamieson
Way and Featherbrook community centres. These centres offer
a wide range of fantastic services and facilities for families,
young people and our senior citizens. Our residents also need to
be aware of the “state of the art” sports grounds that have been
established for sport and recreational activities at Arndell Park,
Featherbrook, and Alamanda and those under construction at
Innisfail and Saltwater Reserve.
What changes have you seen in your ward in your
time of living here?
The large number of people taking up residence in Wyndham
from some 130 countries has created a wonderfully diverse
community which has greatly enhanced our way of life. These
new migrants have provided much greater diversity into our
community in the visual and performance arts, music, and in
cultural activities. These cultural contributions, together with
the introduction of a wide range of superb foods have greatly
contributed to the richness and vibrancy of our community here
in Wyndham. The downside in the increase in our population
we have experienced has been a marked increase in traffic
congestion in satellite roads, long delays at railway crossings
and inadequate public transport although these issues are the
responsibility of State and Federal governments.
What changes can residents expect to see in
Truganina over the next 6-12 months?
The completion of major sporting facilities at the Point Cook
Reserve and Innisfail will provide some fantastic new sporting
facilities for the young men and women in our community.
These facilities will also provide additional recreational facilities
for young families and our senior citizens. Other changes
will include the completion of a new kindergarten room at the
Featherbrook Community Centre which will be used to provide
new educational facilities for our 4 year-olds. An increase in
community engagement and consultation with the broader
community in Truganina will also be important in the next 12
months.
What is the funniest thing that’s happened to yo
u
in your time as Councillor?
I was participating in a photo shoot with a local dog to publicize
our new dog off lead policy. However the dog we selected for
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this photo shoot was not keen to obey instructions so we had to
spend some time coaching and cajoling the dog to do the right
thing. Eventually, after some time, and with our patience running
low, we were successful in getting some excellent photos.
What has been your biggest challenge as a
Councillor?The frustration at having Council decisions, such as applications
for multi-unit developments on residential blocks overturned by
legislative bodies such as the Victorian Civil and Administrative
Tribunal, which are under the jurisdiction of State government.
On these occasions Councillors often put a lot of effort and time
into weighing up complex issues and to have these decisions
overturned on a number of occasions presents some personal
challenges. Other challenges include situations where there is
an obvious need for a facility but there are insufficient finances
available in the budget to support particular projects.
What is a common misconception about being a
Councillor?That we have much greater influence on acquiring funding
some infrastructure projects than we actually have. Many of our
residents are under the belief that Council are responsible for
the satellite roads at the entry and exit to Wyndham, for public
transport and for other major infrastructure projects and health
services which are the responsibility of State government.
AFL or soccer?My family are proud supporters of the Cats AFL team but I am
also a very keen supporter of all of our local sporting clubs.
Cat or dog?Previously our family was the proud owner of a Maltese dog
which passed away.
Deputy Mayor Cr Glenn Goodfellow
What are some of Truganina’s hidden secrets?
The Truganina Ward covers a wide area and many people forget
the rich history that the area has played in the development
of the area. From the dairy Farm of Alfred Leake to the dry
farming areas to our North and the old salt works in Point Cook
and to the RAAF Base at Laverton. One of my favourite places
would have to be the old sandstone quarry along the banks of
Skelton Creek; it is a lovely walk and has so much history also
the old dairy vaults along the creek. If these could talk I would
be amazed with some of the stories they could tell. There is
however so much more, but I encourage residents to get out and
explore not only your area but all of Wyndham.
What changes have you seen in your ward in your
time living here?Having living in Wyndham all my life, I have seen many changes
over the years. I can recall when the only Shopping centre
was Werribee and everyone knew everyone else it was a real
country town and Point Cook, Truganina and Tarneit were farms
and Hoppers Crossing finished at Spring Drive. But what really
stands out for me is the growth not only in houses but in the
number of new cultures that are calling Wyndham home. This
I think we can be very proud of. But overall it would have to be
the growth of Wyndham and especially the growth in the last 10
years.
What changes can residents expect to see in
Truganina over the next 6-12 months?
There are many changes and challenges facing Wyndham over
the next 6-12 months and beyond, but what changes can we
see in the ward? Firstly the upgrade of Sneydes Road in Point
Cook which is long overdue. For our friends in Laverton North
are in need of upgrades to footpaths and road upgrades to allow
freight movement. And through the ward completion of much
needed sports ovals, upgrading of our cycling paths and a new
footbridge over Skelton Creek at Traviller Drive (Westmeadows
Lane Area) linking the community as well as being better on
those little things.
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to you
in your time as Councillor?
Being set up to sing at a function I was at (Thanks Shirley).
And most recently saying condemned in instead of commend in
relation to a Council report.
What has been your biggest challenge as a
Councillor?Balancing the needs of the ratepayers in my ward to the needs
of the whole Wyndham community. This can be very hard as
we all want to ensure that our own ward gets things. I also
find it hard when you want to speak out in favour of or against
something to let the community know you are listening when you
have to be careful of Conflict of Interest Rules. Most of us are
elected from the work we do in our community and sometimes
those associations which we have made over years are the
biggest challenge we face in our role as Councillor.
What is a common misconception about being a
Councillor?That we only meet on a Monday Night and we are full time
councillors. That we have more power or influence than we
actually do and that we can fix things at the drop of a hat.
AFL or soccer? AFL North Melbourne and the Mighty Werribee Tigers.
Cat or dog?None as my children are too young to have a pet at this point,
but I am a dog person having 3 dogs growing up.
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Wyndham City is continuing to have success with its Dumping is Damaging campaign with 6 successful prosecutions in just over six months.Between December 2011 and June 2012 there have been successful prosecutions for illegal dumping totalling over $13,000 in fines and costs.The Dumping is Damaging campaign has been extremely successful, with a large rise in the number of people reporting illegally dumped rubbish from 651 in 2009/2010 to 881 calls during the same period in 2010/2011. There has also been a 93.5 per cent reduction in illegal dumping in specific targeted areas for the same period.Wyndham City spends approximately $1.2 million each year on cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish, including cleaning gross pollutant traps and street sweeping. But the cost to the community isn’t just financial – there are large costs to our environment, with illegally dumped waste making its way into our rivers and wildlife habitats, as well
as having a negative impact on the way people view our City. The success of the Dumping is Damaging program has been a community effort– from real estate agents to charity bin operators, developers to residents, everyone has played their part.Ratepayers are entitled to two free tip tokens and two pre-booked hard and green
waste collections each year, so there is no excuse for dumping rubbish illegally in Wyndham.For more information on the Dumping is Damaging campaign, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.auTo report illegal dumping, contact Wyndham City on 9742 0777.
Dumping is damaging success
Arts and Culture StrategyWyndham City wants your views to shape the future direction of Arts and Culture in our municipality.We are in the process of producing a new Arts and Culture Strategy which will outline our commitment to:• CommunityArts• ArtsandCulturalProgramming• CulturalFacilities• ProfessionalDevelopmentintheArts
Sector• CreativeIndustries• PublicArtBrecknock Consulting has been employed by Council to undertake this work, bringing many years experience in Public Art Development and Arts and Cultural Planning. Over the next few weeks, Brecknock will be contacting some of Wyndham’s arts community to be involved in focused discussions about Arts and Culture in Wyndham.
It’s important that a broad cross-section of the community tells us their opinion about Arts and Culture, to make sure that we best represent what the community wants in our planning and future development.The online survey will be open until Friday, 10th August 2012.
For further information about the Art & Cultural Strategy contact Jamie Smith, Arts & Cultural Development Coordinator on 9742 0777.To view the survey, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
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Reminder on Pool SafetyIt may be cold outside, but Wyndham City is reminded pool and spa owners that their safety barriers need to be properly installed and maintained.Swimming pools and spas can be great places for relaxation and recreation, but they can also be places of tragedy. Last year in Australia, 12 children under the age of 5 drowned in swimming pools.While the responsibility for installing and maintaining pool and spa barriers rests with owners, Wyndham City also has a role to play. Wyndham City’s Building Services Unit can provide advice on the specific requirements for barriers and issue building permits for the installation or alteration of these barriers.Safety barriers are required for in-ground swimming pools, jacuzzis, indoor swimming pools, above-ground swimming pools and spas. This includes inflatable and portable units that are capable of holding water greater than 30centimetres (300mm) in depth. The barriers can include fences and walls, with associated gates, windows, locks, latches and hinges.These barriers must be maintained by the property owner and occupant, ensuring that:• All gates providing access to a pool or a spa
have self-closing and self-latching devices that work,
• No tree branches, pool pumps, pot plants or other items which could be used to climb over the barrier are within a 90 centimetres (900mm) radius of the gate or fence,
• Any fences (especially boundary timber paling fences) are still in good repair and non-climbable,
• All gates that provide access to the swimming pool or spa area are closed at all times, except when entering or leaving the area.
During Spring Wyndham City’s building inspectors will undertake a program of pool barrier audits and inspections to ensure that pool barriers are in place and being properly maintained. For more information, contact Wyndham City’s Building Services Unit on 9742 0718 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/building_planning
Ever wanted a green thumb? Then this is the workshop for you – and you can go shopping for dinner in your own backyard!Wyndham City, in partnership with Shoestring Gardening and Very Edible Gardens, is hosting a series of nine free gardening workshops as part of the Growing Communities project.The Complete Wyndham Gardener Workshops will focus on what to plant and where, composting, understanding soils, managing fruit trees, caring for chickens, preserving, organic pest control, permaculture and much more.Growing Communities is a joint Australian and State Government initiative under the National Partnership Agreement on Preventative Health and the Transport Connections Program. Growing Communities is one of the many projects that are to come as part of the Healthy Communities Initiative, working to tackle obesity and chronic disease in Wyndham.RSVP is essential. Register via email Karen at [email protected] or phone on 0435 235 144.
If you require an interpreter at a workshop these can provided, please inform Karen at Shoestring Gardening when you register.For 2012 dates, visit the web site www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
WORKSHOPSIntroduction to Permaculture (2-day workshop) Very limited places, book early.Saturday, 25 and Sunday, 26 August 20129.30am-4.30pm each dayWestern Region Environment Centre28 Ridge Drive, Wyndham Vale
Intro to Organic Gardening/Preparing for SpringSaturday, 22 September 201210am-1pmWerribee Community Shed – Heathdale57A Kookaburra Road, Heathdale
Composting/WormsSaturday, 13 October 201211am-1pmTarneit Community Centre150 Sunset Views Boulevard, Tarneit
Understanding SoilsSaturday, 1 December 201211am-1pmArndell Park Community Centre29-49 Federation Boulevard, Truganina
S.O.S. WestS.O.S West, a creative group of young people with acquired brain injuries, Aspergers and Autism, have launched their second album and a short film at Wyndham’s Youth Resource Centre.This is the third year the group has been in operation, and the second album created, with many of the songs now appearing on itunes.The album is called “ ...the story so far!” and was produced with support from the Wyndham City’s Youth Resource Centre and the Department of Human Services.SOS have worked work together with local artist Akash Temple
through a series of workshops to improve their skills and get involved in the mixing and arranging process.They have been involved with everything – from writing and recording to the development of video clips, a website called ‘electronictribes’ and a short film.There are 15 people in the group, which was originally formed in response to a lack of artistic and creative options for young people in the area, especially over the school holiday period.For more information, visit http://www.electronictribes.net/
FREE Growing Communities Workshop
14
Community Safety MonthOctober is Community Safety Month and to celebrate Wyndham City is running a number of events to make your neighbourhood safer: • Safety Plate Day – Come and get anti-theft screws installed
on your number plates. Wyndham Safe Stroll – Come out for a night time community walk and reclaim the night.
• Know your Neighbours Barbecue Day – Have a street party or barbecue in your local park and get to know your neighbours.
Community Safety Month is a community based initiative aimed at making our communities even safer through the promotion of safe practices.For a copy of the calendar of events or further information on Community Safety Month, please contact Wyndham City’s Community Safety Planner on 9742 0763 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
Spring into SPRING
With the close of winter it’s time to get back outdoors and put that ‘spring’ back in your step. Why not try something new, participate in something close to home or just come along to meet others? Wyndham City’s Active Wyndham program encourages the whole community to keep active this spring, by showcasing many of the low cost and free outdoor recreational activities available to residents. Activities vary and there is something to suit most ages and abilities. Winter offered a myriad of indoor activities to keep you warm such as Tai Chi, carpet bowls, and dancing. Spring will feature outdoor activities such as walking and cycling to encourage people to get out and enjoy all that spring has to offer.Being active can make you feel good, improve your health, and is a great way to relax in the company of friends. The Department of Health and Ageing recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity per day for adults, 60 minutes per day for those aged 5-18 years and 3 hours spread across each day for children under 5 years. Active Wyndham offers seasonal leisure and recreation opportunities that help us celebrate the best of each season. To find out about the latest activities and opportunities we encourage you to visit the website www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/activewyndhamFor more information, or to promote your community recreational activity through Active Wyndham, contact Wyndham City’s Health Development Project Officer on 9742 8127.
Living Longer Living
StrongerLooking to improve your strength, balance, co-ordination and fitness levels as you get older? Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre’s over 50’s Council on the Ageing (COTA) Living Longer Living Stronger program could be the perfect option. Supervised by qualified gym staff, you will be shown through an individualised gym program specific to your needs. COTA runs Monday to Friday 10am-2pm with additional staff available at all times to attend to any questions or to help you safely complete your program. The cost of the program is only $5 per session – which includes access to all the aquatic facilities at the centre. All you need to get involved in the program is a clearance from your doctor and to make an appointment at the centre for your first, free consultation.For further information about COTA or to book an appointment please contact the centre on 9748 2555.
Community Safety Month
CHET BAKER – Like Someone in LoveSaturday, 4 August David Goldthorpe brings to the stage the
extraordinary life and sudden demise of
America’s Chet Baker. With a 3 piece
band Goldthorpe brings to life Baker’s
soulful voice and melodic music and
some raw dialogue.
What a man’s gotta doSaturday, 8 SeptemberThe hilarious one man comedy musical
by Andrew Horabin. Spend a night with
comedian and award-winning songwriter
Andrew Horabin, laughing about sex,
work, marriage, mateship, booze, Buck’s
Nights, being a dad and getting old
without necessarily growing up.
Ladies Night Thursday, 4 October
The story of four unemployed guys,
motivated by ‘The Chippendales’ to form
a male stripping act, in order to make
some fast cash.
Treasure IslandFriday, 5 OctoberA legendary adventure story told through
the eyes of young Jim Hawkins. In
our interpretation of the story, young
Jim is assisted in the story telling by
his father. This adventure story sees
its characters battling with the sea,
the land, one another and their own
inner emotions as they search for the
famous buried treasure. Their heroic
and brave approach together with their
constant ploys and strategies to outwit
one another, offer a hostile yet comical
journey towards their goal of finding
Treasure Island and its glorious prize.
Stevie-The Life & Music of Stevie Wright & The EasybeatsFriday, 12 October
This upbeat LIVE Rockumentary takes
the audience on a journey from the beat
of the 60’s to the hard and heady days
of the 70’s and 80’s. Australian music
history was made with hits such as
Friday On My Mind, She’s So Fine, Evie,
Sorry, Goodtimes, Make You Happy and
many more and has been selling out and
receiving standing ovations.
Caravan Burlesque Thursday, 8 NovemberFrom multi-award winning Finucane
& Smith, creators of global smash hit
The Burlesque Hour, comes a travelling
emporium that fuses Parisian nightclub
with jaw-dropping cabaret.
15
Wyndham Cultural CentrePresents…
Changes for Werribee South Boat Ramps UsersWyndham City has re-zoned the vehicle and trailer car park at the Werribee South Boat Ramps as a ‘Permit Only’ parking zone.All ramp users must now:1. Park only within the marked parking bays;2. Only use the parking spaces if you have a
vehicle towing a trailer; and3. Display a valid ramps ticket in your
windscreen. The ticket must be visible for inspectors.
The changes at the Werribee South Boat Ramp parking lot will provide parking facilities for those who have paid to utilise the ramps and those parking a vehicle with a trailer.When all marked bays are full, ramp users are still able to utilise the overflow car park.
All vehicles utilising the overflow car park must:1. Have a trailer attached to their vehicle.2. Display a valid ramps ticket in their
windscreen.3. Park in an orderly fashion.Wyndham City’s Legislative Officers will be patrolling the parking lot on a regular basis and those who do not follow the parking rules may be fined. If a valid parking ticket is not on display, or a user is parking outside of a marked bay, an on-the-spot fine may be issued.Annual Pass holder’s who launch prior to the Coast Guard being at the ramps must display a valid annual pass in their windscreen. Otherwise, fines may be issued.
Casual users who launch prior to the Coast Guard being at the ramps may still launch and purchase a ticket upon retrieval.The Coast Guard will remain responsible for the selling of ramps tickets. Tickets can be purchased from the Coast Guard when at the ramps (either upon launch or retrieval).For ticket enquiries, please contact the Coast Guard on 0488 228 025 or 9742 1502.For all other enquiries, please contact Wyndham City’s Leisure Contracts Officer on 9742 0777.For more Information on the Werribee South Boat Ramp facilities visit:http://www.experiencewyndham.com.au/leisure_recreation/water/wsouthboatramp
16What ’s On in Wyndham
Wednesday, 8 August 2012Gran’s Bag - Children’s TheatreChrissie Shaw brings the tale to life as the larger than life Gran and pulls the entire show out of her giant red handbag - which seems to have a life of its own. With storytelling, songs and puppetry, Gran takes us on a fun adventure full of twists and turns. You never know where the story will go next.Time: 10.30am and 1pmWhere: Wyndham Cultural Centre, 177 Watton Street, Werribee.Cost: Adult $15, concession $11 and child $11Contact: Tickets available from Box Office 9741 9500 or www.wyncc.com.au
Saturday, 11 August 2012IramooMarketFood, plants, swap table, handmade wares and Indoor and outdoor stalls available at the Iramoo Market held on the 2nd Saturday of the month.Time: 9am to noon.Where: Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale.Contact: Linda on 8742 3688
Saturday, 18 August 2012Yarambooee Community Monthly MarketCome along on the 3rd Saturday of Every Month, 30 plus stalls of handmade, knitted, new and used products, including jewellery, home decor, candles, toys, coffee, sausage sizzle, face painting, jumping castle, freebies and much more.Time: 9am-2pmWhere: 55 Maple Crescent, Hoppers CrossingContact: Nicole 9748 9310 or [email protected]
Saturday, 18 August 2012Wyndham Fruit and Vegie SwapOn the 3rd Saturday of each month veggie growers bring their excess produce along and put it on a
common table and then swap it for other home grown produce on the table. It’s very casual and no money changes hands. You can swap your produce for whatever you need. You could turn your extra figs into lemons, eggplants into oranges, roses into rhubarb, or home made pickles into pumpkins. You might want to bring along seeds, seedlings, cuttings, flowers, fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, homemade jams, chutneys, sauces and home grown eggs (all dated please). Or feel free to bring a thermos for yourself on cool days and perhaps you would like to wow us with some wonderful dish to share that you have cooked with your home grown fruit or vegetables. Time: 11amWhere: Iramoo Community Centre, Honour Avenue, Wyndham ValeContact: Coralee Klement [email protected] or 0403 433 795.
Saturday, 25 August 2012Tai Chi in the Werribee PiazzaCome along and enjoy the relaxing and invigorating exercise of tai chi in the open air. Learn simple exercises that you can incorporate into your daily routine. Open to all ages. Wear comfortable clothes and enjoy an experience that may transform your life. No cost, just bring yourself along. Time: 10am-12amWhere: Werribee Piazza, Watton Street, (Opposite Werribee CBD Library)Cost: FreeContact: John Sindoni (Werribee Celestial Tai Chi Instructor) on 0418512255 or visit www.celestialtaichi.com
Saturday, 25 August 2012Roy Orbison and the Legends of RockThe show comprises 3 x 40 minute sets and there is an open dance floor for you to get up and rock ‘n’ roll to the classics. Dinner and show includes a gourmet platter to share, main meal and dessert with beverages available at bar prices.
Time: 6.45pmWhere: Italian Sports Club of Werribee, 601 Heaths Road, WerribeeCost: Members $35per head, Non Members $40 per head.Contact: 9741 1225 or visit www.iscw.com.au
Sunday, 26 August 2012Community Garden Swap in Point CookHeld on the 4th Sunday of the month this is a free community gathering of like-minded home gardeners/cooks, who want to share their surplus home-grown harvests, garden supplies, recipes and plants.Time: 10am-1amWhere: Meet at the park shelter, Corner Bergamot Drive and Caraway Crescent, Point Cook - enter via Boardwalk Boulevard – (opposite Point Cook Senior School)Contact: Rita on 0418 469 598 or email [email protected]
Saturday, 15 September 2012Heathdale Christian College Family Fun Day Come along and help us celebrate 30 years as a school. There is guaranteed to be lots of fun, food, rides and craft stalls. Lots of free activities on the centre stage including music performances and dance displays. Time: 10-3pmWhere: Heathdale Christian College, 175 Derrimut Road, WerribeeContact: Sharon 0457 008 359.
For more information on What’s on in Wyndham visit: facebook.com/EventsInWyndhamCitytwitter.com/EventsInWyndham
www.experiencewyndham.com.au