Greater Bendigo news A U T U M N 2 0 12
inside Major projects update pages 2 & 3 Take ownership page 5 A guiding hand page 7
Major projects update…
Our Community Theatre Bendigo Senior Secondary College and the City of Greater Bendigo are converting the old Bendigo Gaol into a 1000-seat, $25.8million theatre complex, with a direct link to eduction – a classic case of recycling history and giving it a brand new future. Sandhurst Prison was commissioned in 1861 and played a vital, if punitive, role in Bendigo’s early history. Now it is about to be reborn as the city’s new community theatre, complete with music, dance and drama studio spaces, general learning areas and a commercial learning kitchen. The local education sector is a key stakeholder in the project. Bendigo Senior Secondary College, La Trobe and Monash Universities, Girton Grammar School , Catholic College Bendigo, Bendigo TAFE and other primary and secondary schools across the region are all likely to be major users of the theatre for large gatherings and performances. The new venue will be operated by The Capital Theatre, whose manager, David Lloyd, said: “A 1000-seat capacity theatre is long overdue for Bendigo and will attract Australia’s top performing arts companies, producers and performers”. In addition to the education sector and the arts, the new theatre will be available as a venue for conferences, meetings and seminars held by and/or for the general community. Bendigo Senior Secondary College Principal, Dale Pearce, said the theatre project was extremely important in the school’s future arts program.
Theatre image from the stage.
“In coming years we intend to create a program which provides students with unprecedented opportunities in the performing arts,” Mr Pearce said. The development is financed by the City ($3 million), State Government ($8 million) and Federal Government ($12.3 million) and the education, arts, entertainment, tourism and other business sectors. Plans have been lodged with the City of Greater Bendigo and building contracts are expected to go to public tender before the end of the year. The project has already produced an unexpected bonus. Sections of the original Chapel façade, thought to have been lost in a fire in 1959, have been re-discovered and will be restored. The firm that developed the plans, Y2 Architecture, has worked closely with Heritage Victoria to identify and retain historical elements of the site and overcome the many challenges of transforming old prison buildings into a state-of-the-art theatre facility. An additional 70 car parking spaces will be
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developed opposite the site, with an additional 154 spaces available for overflow parking within the Tom Flood Sports Centre.
Car park on time and on budget On time and on budget was the message City of Greater Bendigo Councillors were greeted with on a recent tour of the City’s new multistorey car park office complex. The skeleton of the complex has been erected with all the work undertaken by local firm Ausform. Ausform has up to 40 workers at the Edward Street site and has increased its employee numbers to ensure that the complex is completed on time. Ausform Projects Engineer, Daniel Ogle, said the project was an example of Bendigo having the skills and resources to successfully complete major building projects. The Victorian Government’s State Trustees has signed on as the major tenant for the commercial ground floor space which will house 100 employees.
As one of the fastest growing regional cities in the State, Bendigo is poised to take full advantage of the major economic benefits aviation can bring to regional areas. Regional airports help improve local economies through transport, tourism and air freight, and also deliver a range of essential emergency services. Council endorsed plans for the Business Park and Runway layout in February. The State Government’s announcement of $5 million – one quarter of its annual RAF funding budget – will contribute to the upgrade of the main north-south runway.
Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Centre The City has called for tenders to undertake planning and design work for the proposed Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Centre. Multi-story car park development well under way.
State Trustees will relocate 25 Melbournebased staff and their families to work in the Bendigo Regional Office from August 2012 and has another 75 jobs to fill. A recent State Trustees Jobs Expo in Bendigo attracted interest from more than 200 local people considering employment opportunities with the organisation. There is still commercial space available on the ground floor of the complex. Expressions of interest enquiries can be made to Bendigo property agents DCK and Tweed Sutherland First National.
Quick facts: • Approximately 50km of cable has been used in the structural slab • 5000m2 of concrete has been poured into the slab • 2,787 aluminium panels will make up the building’s façade.
Airport plan takes off The redevelopment of Bendigo Airport, assisted by $5 million from the Regional Aviation Fund (RAF), will boost investment, productivity and growth opportunities in our region.
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While any construction works are still some years away, it’s important to do the planning and design work now so we can actively seek State and Federal funding for the $25 million project. The work will also be important for Council in determining future funding priorities. A consortium of architects, engineers, cost planners and associated advisors are being invited to tender for the planning and design work and they will work closely with the Aquatic Centre Project Group to guide the project forward. Full details on current projects can be found online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/currentprojects
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What’s in the works? As part of Council’s commitment to deliver improved infrastructure, a range of works are currently underway or have recently been completed.
Replacement of the footbridge over Axe Creek (O’Keefe Rail Trail) - $250,000.
Works in Ellis Street, Flora Hill to realign traffic islands, kerb, footpath and a retaining wall to widen the road for bike lanes between Curtin Street and Edwards Road whilst maintaining parking bays - $130,000.
Widening of Mandurang Road from Tannery Lane to Nankervis Road with the installation of guard rail at various sections to provide safety for both motorists and bicycles - $770,000.
A major drainage upgrade from Collins Street, Kangaroo Flat to Bendigo creek - $320,000.
Recent works underway or completed: • Kneebone Street, Eaglehawk - Drainage upgrade • Railway Place, Bendigo - Landscaping • Lawrence Road, Strathfieldsaye - Drainage improvements • Edward Street, Bendigo - Works associated with car park development • Wellington Street, Strathfieldsaye - Footpath works • Neil Street, Kangaroo Flat - Drainage upgrade Intersection improvements and installation of guard rail at Axedale / Goornong Road - Sugarloaf Road - $120,000.
Greater Bendigo News is the City of Greater Bendigo’s community newsletter and is printed on Australian recycled paper. If you have ideas to improve Greater Bendigo News we would love to hear them. Email: gbnews@bendigo.vic.gov.au
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Library redevelopment
Highlights of the proposed redevelopment include:-
– an exciting new chapter for Bendigo The redevelopment of the Bendigo Library has moved a significant step closer with planning approval given at a recent Council meeting. The project has extensive community support and offers a contemporary and exciting redeveloped venue for the future delivery of library services.
Library services from the Kangaroo Flat, Eaglehawk and Castlemaine Libraries will continue to operate as usual throughout the construction phase.
• Creative children’s library area • Gathering spaces, coffee lounge, exhibition, events and alfresco spaces
We are expecting the redeveloped library to be in operation in early 2014.
Expression of Interest from construction companies will be invited in May and we are working towards awarding the tender by September this year so that construction works can commence before the end of the year.
• Provision of new and upgraded technology systems for the community
Take ownership
Registration Animal registrations are due for payment by April 10 each year. Pet owners are encouraged to ensure they renew their pet’s registration before this date or risk receiving a fine. Registration fees help fund the City’s Animal Control services to remove wandering dogs from the streets, respond to dog attacks and nuisance problems such as barking dogs, cat trespass and the control of ‘dangerous’, ‘menacing’ and ‘restricted breed’ dogs to ensure they do not pose a threat to the community.
• New flexible, multi-purpose, creative community spaces and meeting rooms to meet increasing community needs • Replacement of obsolete airconditioning systems, public amenities and outdated and worn fittings and installation of highly efficient energy systems and facilities
The former Bendigo Advertiser building in Pall Mall will become the temporary home of the Bendigo Library while the redevelopment works are undertaken.
Our pets contribute enormously to the family dynamic and life just wouldn’t be the same without them. Pet ownership is a serious commitment and a certain level of responsibility is needed, especially for cats and dogs. This includes making sure that your pet is registered, microchipped and desexed.
• Contemporary and inviting library layout to meet current and future community requirements
Each microchip has a unique number that is detected using a scanner (yes just like at the supermarket checkout). If your pet is lost, the animal shelter or the City Animal Control Officer can scan your pet and contact you.
Huntly resident Megan Ferrie and her family were panic-stricken when their Labrador, Dodge, went missing recently. “We were delighted to find that an Animal Control Officer in the area had collected Dodge in a street not too far from where we live. He had been taken to the RSPCA shelter and we were able to collect him from there. “The Children were so happy to have him back so quickly. Registering Dodge made sure he was able to be returned to us”, said Megan.
Microchip your pet Should your pet go missing, you are far more likely to be reunited if they are microchipped. A microchip is a permanent method of identification that is about the size of a grain of rice which is implanted just under the skin between the shoulder blades at the back of your pet’s neck.
To keep records current you should make sure you notify the City of Greater Bendigo when your address or phone number changes. Last year there were more than 6,000 requests for animal control services
Be safe around dogs The city of Greater Bendigo is a child-friendly city and its Be Safe around Dogs program aims to educate children on safe behaviours around dogs and reduce the likelihood of dogs biting children. Even if children do not have a dog at home, it is still important for them to learn how to be safe around dogs. From 2005-2007, 580 children aged 5-9 years required hospital treatment due to dog bites in Victoria. In most cases the dog was known to the child, with almost 70% of dog bite injuries occurring in the child’s home or the home of a family member, friend or neighbour. The number one rule for kids is, “do not go near a dog unsupervised” It is also important that children learn how to approach a dog correctly and what to do if an angry or aggressive dog approaches them. The program provides educational material to teach children the skills and behaviours they need to be safe around dogs.
To play fun games while learning about safe behaviour around dogs go to the animals and pets web page at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/animal Happy to be re-united Megan, Maeci, Tazma Ferrie and Dodge.
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Creating great recreation facilities
Working together: Ian Schephers, Eaglehawk Soccer Club, Gordon McKern, Eaglehawk Rotary and Cr Peter Cox inspect the new stadium at Truscott Reserve.
Bendigo has 40 new and refurbished community sporting venues to enjoy with many other recreational projects coming on line in the near future. The projects were completed by the City during the 2011/12 financial year, and included the renovation or expansion of existing facilities and the construction of new venues. They include: • Construction of a new pavilion at Mandurang Recreation Reserve • Extension and refurbishment of the Strathdale Park pavilion • Renovation and extension of Weeroona Reserve pavilion • Construction of multi-purpose training facilities at Strathfieldsaye • Surface repairs to LaTrobe Athletics Track and Tom Flood Cycling Track • Installation of a change room hoist at Peter Krenz Leisure Centre • Installation of lighting for the Spring Gully synthetic soccer facility • Change room upgrades at Golden Square Recreation Reserve • New storage and rendering of the Weeroona Fire Brigade Judges’ Box A major new community stadium at Truscott Reserve, California Gully, is a joint initiative between the City, Regional Development
Victoria and the local community. The former Eaglehawk Secondary College stadium has been relocated to Truscott Reserve and includes a stage for community events and playing surfaces for volleyball, basketball, netball and badminton.
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The City will soon complete construction of a major sporting pavilion and change facility at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve, including six new change rooms, umpire facilities, commercial kitchen, large function room and meeting space. The Epsom project was jointly funded by the City and the Victorian Government, which contributed $500,000.
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Projects to be completed include • Painting of the diving tower at Bendigo Aquatic Centre • Restoration of the Queen Elizabeth Oval Grandstand • New cricket nets at Barrack Reserve, Heathcote • Irrigation and resurfacing of the oval at Malone Park, Marong • Installation of new filters at the Raywood Swimming Pool • Installation of various playgrounds 1. Weeroona Reserve pavilion 2. Mayor Cr Alec Sandner and Hon Damian Drum MLC at the opening of Strathdale Park pavilion 3. Mandurang Recreation Reserve pavilion 4. Works underway at the Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve
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A guiding hand The City has released the latest st edition of its Aged and Disabilityy Services Guide. The guide provides useful information about Home and Community Care (HACC) services and can be collected from City of Greater Bendigo’s Customer Service Centre as well as the Commonwealth Carelink Centre in Queen Street, Bendigo.
AGED & DISAB
ILITY SERV
ICES Home & Com munity Car e
The Guide includes information on the services provided by the HACC program and details the assessment process for those needing to access HACC services. The HACC program supports the frail and elderly, young people with disabilities and their carers. One of the main aims of the program is to help those at risk of premature or inappropriate admission to long-term residential care. HACC clients are encouraged to become involved in the decision-making process for the services they receive and to participate in the service delivery to achieve their goals. Services provided for eligible clients include Food Services, Home Care, Personal Care and Respite Care. Planned Activity Groups are also listed and help clients maintain living and social skills through social, intellectual, physical and emotional stimulation. Activities include participating in gardening, games, craft, bingo, card games, exercise and celebrating events such as the Melbourne Cup and the AFL Grand Final. Property Maintenance service includes basic home safety maintenance such as the installation of rails and the changing of smoke alarm batteries and light bulbs. Services involve fees which are assessed individually and are based on income. Clients’ rights and responsibilities are also listed in the guide. Find out more about the HACC program online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/aged&disabilityservices or phone 5434 6411.
Join us on social media The City of Greater Bendigo has recently launched its Facebook and Twitter pages as a new way of keeping you up to date with our latest news and media releases, activities, community consultation, job vacancies, events, changes to services and more. Bendigo Art Gallery, The Capital, Bendigo Tourism and Yo Bendigo already have popular Facebook and Twitter pages, and some City of Greater Bendigo Councillors are also on social media. How to find us on Facebook and Twitter Visit our website at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au and click on the links to our Facebook and Twitter pages on the bottom right. (You will need to be logged in to your Facebook or Twitter account.) On our Facebook page, click the ‘Like’ button to have our posts included in your newsfeed. On our Twitter page, click the ‘Follow’ button to have our tweets included in your timeline.
Struggling to get children to playgroup or kindergarten? Concerned about the numbers of children missing out on pre-school or playgroup, the City is offering a program for parents facing difficulties in finding the right place for their children. The Off to an Early Start program is free and helps parents establish routines to get their children to preschool or playgroup on a regular basis. Already attendance has increased to 80 per cent as a result of the program. Acting Manager of Children and Family Services, Maureen Tessier, said: “Parents unsure of how to find a playgroup for their child are offered support. We also assist parents experiencing difficulties
with accessing preschool services including enrolment processes, routine in getting to preschool and support with getting to know the preschool setting. “Staff will help them find a preschool or playgroup they are comfortable with, and support them to attend. “The program supports local parents in giving their children the best opportunities to socialise and learn in their early years, to prepare them and their families for primary school.” The program is funded through the Federal Government Communities For Children Strategy. Parents seeking further information should phone Catherine or Melanie on 5434 6311.
At your service The City’s Service Guide has been updated and sent to residents through the post. The guide includes an overview of the services available to residents and contact details. It also contains information on fees and charges, a location directory, a list of recreation facilities, important dates, general information about the City of Greater Bendigo and much more. Residents are encouraged to keep the guide in a handy location, perhaps even with their phone book and consult it whenever they require information relating to any of the services provided by the City of Greater Bendigo.
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We hope that the updated guide will help improve the way we are servicing our residents. If you have not received your copy of the guide please pick one up from Customer Service Centres in Bendigo or Heathcote or visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/serviceguide
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Taking a strategic view Great towns and cities don’t evolve by accident. Planning and all its various stages, from concept stage to final implementation, need to develop with a clear vision of where, how and why development should take place. This process must happen with full community involvement. The City presents three strategic planning projects – Greater Bendigo Transport Planning, Residential Development Strategy Review and the Eaglehawk Township Structure Plan – which are currently underway.
Greater Bendigo Transport Planning Being able to easily get around town is essential when catching up with friends and family, getting to work, shopping and accessing recreational facilities. Community interest in how this can be best achieved in Greater Bendigo has been significant. Earlier this year, two communitybased discussions were held at the Capital with packed houses at each session hearing from world-renowned transport planning experts. Possible scenarios and options for how we might move goods and people around Greater Bendigo in the future were presented. More than 90 per cent of those in attendance believe Bendigo should establish a vision for a more sustainable transport system, and over 70 per cent want a more compact city with more infill development as opposed to continued outward sprawl. Community involvement in transport planning is fundamental. The City can campaign, run programs and lobby other government sectors, but it takes bottom-up community participation and innovation to achieve real change and positive transport outcomes.
well serviced land with more housing in areas in and around the CBD, hospital and university. The City is now reviewing this plan in the light of increased population growth, an ageing population and the need to integrate housing with transport and employment. The review has three stages: an audit; an issues and options report; and a new revised residential plan. The audit is complete and highlights key issues, including the threat of bushfire as a key consideration and the need to encourage infill development to provide a healthy, active city.
Bendigo’s population is currently more than 107,000 and growing at an unprecedented rate. By 2031 the city will be home to over 145,000 people. Already 40 per cent of the forecast growth between 2006 and 2031 has been realised. The City’s 2004 long-term plan for residential development focussed on more efficient use of
The structure plan for Eaglehawk will set a vision for the township and its community for the next 25 to 30 years, focusing on the physical, organisational and functional needs of the area. Input from the community has already helped shape the beginnings of the structure plan and ongoing involvement from the public and agencies is vital to its further development. The latest development in the project is the vision and concept structure plan which sets the foundation for the structure plan to come. Some of the emerging ambitions for the plan include:
You are invited to become involved and encouraged to talk to other people about your ideas and vision. You can register your interest by emailing transportplanning@bendigo.vic.gov.au. The City is committed to developing a long-term transport agenda that builds on the current local appetite for greater livability, productivity and sustainability outcomes.
Residential Development Strategy Review
Eaglehawk Township Structure Plan
• Improving public transport integration • Identifying infill opportunities to increase activity in the town centre • Growing the local employment and industrial base • Developing a civic, arts and community hub • Managing the longer term use of mine sites • Establishing ‘green streets’ in residential areas The audit also highlighted the significant contribution of small subdivisions. Since 2004 more than 300 lots have been created annually through subdivisions of four lots or less, helping reduce urban sprawl and create better public spaces. The Residential Strategy details where and how property developments can use infill parcels of land, types of housing styles and affordability. It will assess current and estimated land supply and demand and consider legislative and policy changes.
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In June the draft structure plan will be displayed publicly for four weeks and meetings will be held for the community to meet the project team, ask questions and provide feedback. Written submissions are encouraged and will be reviewed by the team and Council.
Full details on all strategies can be found online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/ strategyunit
Reinvigorating our walks and laneways The centre of Bendigo is criss-crossed with a warren of fascinating laneways, many of them undiscovered by much of the population. Apart from the distinctive character and historic relevance of these lanes, they have a number of practical purposes:
Bath Lane Lazy lunches, unusual gifts and stylish fashion are all on offer and the two unique public artworks at either end recognise the rich history of the precinct as home to public baths, a pig market and the Lyric Theatre.
• Providing options for navigating the CBD more easily • Linking shopping precincts
showcases, the program has reshaped Bendigo’s CBD into a canvas of colour and beauty. Pennyweight Walk, between Hargreaves Street and Bath Lane, features works by local young artists. The Walk was named Pennyweight in 2009 because iit follows part of the course of tthe former Pennyweight Gully, rreflecting the city’s gold mining h history.
• Providing space for additional shop frontages • Presenting an opportunity to discover the city Each laneway has its own energy reflecting a mix of business, landmarks and heritage. Many have recently been re-invigorated with innovation and flair to create a thriving dining and shopping scene.
street art, global wines, the smell of good coffee and inspired food, transforming it into one of Bendigo’s not to be missed nooks. It is currently exhibiting an exciting new temporary art work created by well known artist Be Free.
Sidney Myer Place In 2010, the City redeveloped the extension of Williamson Street, between Pall Mall and the Bendigo Creek and re-named it Sidney Myer Place in memory of the man who opened the first Myer store in Bendigo in 1900. This leafy area is now used regularly as an event space and for the Community Farmers’ Market, held the second Saturday of each month. It has already become well known for its range of fresh, regional, seasonal produce.
Pennyweight Walk Under its Temporary Public Art Program, the City has transformed Pennyweight Walk and Chancery Lane into open air galleries, featuring the creations of local artists. In the tradition of the world’s great cities and their use of laneways and arcades as artistic
Chancery Lane Chancery Lane was once known as Dispensary Lane after the busy pharmacy where remedies and medications were dispensed to Bendigonians for decades. Today the lane is a welcoming destination offering ever changing
Taking steps to create a vibrant CBD The City will consider funding a range of actions aimed at enhancing the Hargreaves Mall as part of its continued commitment to making the Bendigo CBD a vibrant hub for all. This follows a community survey last year in which 950 respondents had their say on how best to add to the Mall’s appeal. Ideas included fun and interesting activities, more colour and shade, a play space for children, flowers, shrubs and more seating. The feedback has been very valuable and will help to prioritise
the actions and resources needed to attract greater numbers of residents and visitors into the Mall. Council has taken these ideas on board and will consider allocating funds in its next budget for a program of activities, events and entertainment and the installation of seating and planter boxes. We are keen to encourage more community events and activities to be held in the mall to make it more active and interesting to a wide range of people and we will continue to investigate projects that promote the mall as a place for everyone to enjoy.
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What’s happening at the livestock exchange? The Bendigo Livestock Exchange is a fully accredited livestock exchange contributing annually to the Bendigo economy, transacting an estimated $150 million worth of livestock sales each year. As one of the largest sheep and lamb selling centres in Victoria, the exchange is the central selling point for farmers and livestock brokers to buy and sell sheep, cattle and pigs from both Victoria and interstate. Sheep and lamb scanning has never been undertaken in a sale yard environment in Australia and with
Commonwealth funding secured, the livestock exchange will conduct a research project to scope the practical implementation of an electronic based system for reading and tracing sheep. If you haven’t been to the Bendigo Livestock Exchange it really is an experience to see first-hand another aspect of doing business in Bendigo. The exchange is located on Wallenjoe Road, Huntly just 12 kilometres north of Bendigo. Further information about the exchange can be found online or phone 5448 8111.
Creating great leaders
Sale times Weekly sales Prime sheep and lambs
Monday
9.30am
Prime cattle
Tuesday
9am
Prime and store pigs
Wednesday
9.30am
Bobby calves
Wednesday
9.30am
Special Store Cattle Sales
Dates are advertised in the Bendigo Advertiser newspaper
1pm
Regular spring special sheep sales
Dates are advertised in the Bendigo Advertiser newspaper
1pm
Fortnightly
Monthly store sales
Working together: Coordinator Arts and Culture Maree Tonkin, Kews Consulting Karen Ward-Smith and Youth Advisory Group member Sheridan Messfeldt at the Bendigo Library Redevelopment youth workshop.
Young people in Bendigo now have a united voice through the Bendigo Youth Advisory Group. The Youth Advisory Group (YAG) consists of 14 members aged between 12 and 25 with members coming from a range of different backgrounds, including students from local schools, further education institutes and the work force. Sarah Lawrence, a member of YAG said: “Their monthly meetings have seen them discuss a range of issues which affect under 25’s, including transport, entertainment needs and social problems. “We are focused on doing the job properly and before getting a project underway, have created a survey to find out exactly what young people in the city want. With the City’s backing, we hope to start an event for young people by the middle of the year.”
Rory White, Youth Participation Officer said: “The YAG provides young people in Bendigo with an avenue to have their voice heard in regards to decisionmaking. Since its inception, the YAG has been involved with a number of consultations and been able to provide feedback on Council projects, including the Bendigo Library Redevelopment and the Mitchell Street Transport Redevelopment. “In the future, the Youth Advisory Group will have discussions with planning and strategy in regards to the Council Plan and provide opinions from a youth related perspective. Members will under go training in leadership development and action planning.” For details about the YAG please contact Rory White 5434 6092 or youth@bendigo.vic.gov.au
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New entrance signs for Eaglehawk Distinctive new signs featuring an eagle have been installed to mark the entrance to Eaglehawk. The new entrance signs are located at the southern and northern entrances to the township. The Eaglehawk community is very proud of its history, heritage and identity and the new signs were developed with their input. While the signs are in keeping with the City’s other major entrance signs they are unique because they feature a large image of an eagle – a long-time symbol of Eaglehawk.
Cut-it-up at our skate parks Doing a ‘Nollie’, a ‘Frontside Flip’ or a ‘Grind’ is a language that is only clear to those with skateboarding passion. Greater Bendigo is well equipped with a number of skate parks designed for skaters and riders of all skill levels. The parks have a variety of equipment guaranteed for hours of fun. A recent visit to McKern Skate Park in Eaglehawk found a number of skaters at all skill levels with skateboards, scooters and bikes. Jacob Moon travels regularly from Strathfieldsaye to ‘cut-it-up’ at the Eaglehawk skate park and loves it. “I love the range of equipment, it’s a great design and a range of levels. And the skatepark is in a great location, so near to the lake and shops. I come here with friends and it’s always a great vibe,” said Jacob. Why not try it? Practice with your friends at a skate park near you:
Jacob Moon (above) and Cameron Shard (right) show off their skills at McKern Skate Park in Eaglehawk.
Heathcote Skate Park Camp Street, Heathcote Equipment includes two quarter pipes, transition platform and slide rails. Axedale Skate Park Mitchell Street, Axedale Equipment includes two quarter pipes with grind rails and transition platform. Bendigo Skate Park Corner of McIvor Road and Kennedy Street Equipment includes two quarter pipes, curved and multilevel grind poles, fun box and curved pyramid. This park has been designed for beginners to intermediate skaters. McKern Skate Park Canterbury Park, Simpsons Road, Eaglehawk
Equipment ipment includes split levell quarter pipes, flat banks, hubba ledge, spine, euro gap and grind rails to challenge skateboard and BMX enthusiasts at all levels. This is an international class skate park. Elmore Skate Park Hunter - Raywood Road, Elmore A small local fully concreted skate park offering five items of equipment for beginners. The equipment includes a single level quarter pipe with coping rail, basic fun box with hubba ledge, low set flat bar and a curved grinding pole.
Our Visitor Centre - more than award winning Winning two of the nation’s most prestigious tourism awards within a five month period is not just recognition for the Bendigo Visitor Centre’s hard work and vision – it simultaneously helps develop awareness of the City’s many attractions. The Centre won the Australian Tourism Award for Visitor Information Services for the second consecutive year at the 2012 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards at the Cairns Convention Centre on March 2. The win follows the Centre’s induction into the Hall of Fame at the Victorian Tourism Awards last November. Kathryn Mackenzie, Executive Manager Tourism, said: “To be acknowledged for our contribution to Australia’s tourism industry again is a great honour.” The Centre is currently hosting a Designer Delights exhibition in its Living Arts Space, showcasing works by Central Victorian artists and designers. The exhibition runs until July 2 and includes Gretchen Hillhouse Design, Rebecca Share Milliner, Alegria Jewels and Girrawheen Gallery. Their combined collection of unique designer garments, millinery, jewellery and accessories is already attracting locals and visitors interested in style and sophistication.
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The Living Arts Space is located in the City’s historic former Post Office, where the decorative features and beautiful ornate plasterwork provide the perfect environment for the annual program of exhibitions and events. Kathryn Mackenzie paid tribute to Centre Manager Viv Collins, her staff and volunteers for raising the bar on the city’s tourism attractions and services. The Visitor Centre opens from 9am to 5pm every day of the year, except Christmas Day and enjoys the help of 100 local volunteers working alongside City of Greater Bendigo staff to welcome over 100,000 visitors annually. If you are interested in volunteering please contact the Bendigo Visitor Centre to talk through the opportunities available phone: 1800 813 153 or visit www.bendigotourism.com
Rebecca Share – Milliner; Alegria Jewels; Gretchen Hillhouse Bangles; Gretchen Hillhouse Garment
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Festival thanks Easter volunteers and sponsors It was an invitation that was hard to refuse – “Let’s Party” – and visitors to this year’s Bendigo Easter Festival accepted the theme with a vengeance. This year’s festival attracted in excess of 100,000 people across the 3 day format, local volunteers conducting an attendance survey recorded visitors from New Zealand, the United Kingdom, many parts of Asia, the United States of America and from most States and Territories of Australia. Thanking volunteers, sponsors and the community, Festival Committee Chairperson Rod Fyffe commented: “Last year’s celebrations were exceptional, but we managed to pull in even bigger crowds this year.”
Sam Cox, 11, from Camp Hill Primary School entertains the Easter crowd on his unicycle.
Connecting Heathcote Even the weather behaved itself for the Connect Heathcote Event on March 31, turning on a wonderful autumn day for a great turn-out of old and young people from the local community. Clowns mingled with story tellers, live musicians and street performers; hot dogs and devonshire teas were eagerly consumed and trash and treasure and give-aways were big crowd-pullers. The event was initiated in 2010 to promote health and wellbeing, bringing residents together to celebrate being part of the Heathcote community. This year funding was provided
by the Commonwealth and State Governments through the Floods Community Recovery Fund, administered by the City. Heathcote Health, Heathcote Community House, local emergency services, schools, community groups and organisations made such an outstanding success of the day, the aim is to make it an annual event.
Cr Fyffe said family groups, interstate travellers, visitors from Melbourne and international guests attended the event. A survey held during the festival showed more than 82 per cent of people would recommend the event to friends and 90 per cent described their experience as excellent or very good. Cr Fyffe said the festival’s success depended on the support of many business community stakeholders including major partners City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Bank, Hazeldene’s, Bendigo Advertiser and Fire Services Commissioner/ CFA. Other partners also heavily involved were Bendigo Media
Michelle den Elzen, Heathcote Health’s Healthy Lifestyles Officer said: “The success of the day was the positive community response. This is the magic of Heathcote, so many groups making a lovely atmosphere and giving us a sense of belonging.”
Centre, Filthy Monkey, Laser Electrical, Mawby Property, VicRoads, Central Trophies and Gifts and Coates Hire,” he added. Along with all the favourites, two new events were introduced this year, Twilight movies and “Opera Under the Stars” - both hugely successful with great numbers attending both events. Cr Fyffe paid tribute to the volunteers and community groups who ensured events and attractions ran smoothly. “No task was too big or small, and they were all great ambassadors for our city,” he said. He highlighted the long term passion and commitment from the Bendigo Easter Fair Society, whom were established in 1870 and conducted the first Bendigo Easter Fair in 1871. Not one year has been missed since so our festival is honoured to be Australia’s oldest constant community festival. Cr Fyffe also singled out the Bendigo Chinese Association for its contribution to the festival through the Chinese Spring Festival, Awakening of the Dragon and their participation in the Torchlight Procession and Gala Parade. Thanks must also be forwarded to the Easter Festival Advisory Board and the City of Greater Bendigo’s Major Events team for creating an outstanding, professional event.
Supporting our rural women The Loddon Bendigo Rural Women’s Network was conceived in the drought and launched in September 2009 to help rural women connect outside their areas; to develop leadership and decision making skills and to provide support and fellowship. Today more than 200 members in the City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire meet regularly and organise training workshops, social gatherings and community activities across both municipalities. An Evening with Amazing Women was attended by 150 members, and focused on the impacts of long term drought and extensive flooding. More than 130 members attended the Farm Diversification Expo at Campbell’s Forest in August, 2011 and funds are currently being sought for a second Expo in 2012. Summing up just one aspect of the Network’s aims, a Loddon Bendigo Rural Women’s Network Steering Group member said: “We can give rural women the opportunity to grow their skills and knowledge to support themselves, their families and communities in the future.” Joining the network is easy! You can join by phone or email: Loddon Shire - Christine Coombes, Economic Development Officer ph: 5494 1251 or ccoombes@loddon.vic.gov.au
Clowning around at the Heathcote Connect event Nancy Cutleck, June Borrett and Jeanette O’Brien.
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City of Greater Bendigo - Jenny Pendlebury, Rural Support Coordinator, ph 5434 6479 or j.pendlebury@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Gracious Bendigo What’s On Grace Kelly: Style Icon Until June 17 Bendigo Art Gallery Faith in Fashion: Religious Robes and Regalia Until June 17 The Capital Theatre Hidden Worlds: glimpses from Bendigo’s Forest Street archaeological excavation Until June 24 Post Office Gallery, Bendigo Visitor Centre Designer Delights Until July 2 Living Arts Space, Bendigo Visitor Centre Greater Bendigo Heritage Festival April 27 - May 2 Various locations Groovin the Moo May 5 Bendigo Showgrounds Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market Second Saturday of each month Sidney Myer Place Central Victorian Chrysler Club’s Midstate Mopars June 9-10 Bendigo Livestock Exchange and The Town Hall precinct Heathcote on Show June 9 -11 High St, Heathcote The Square - Bendigo’s Handmade Market June 16 Bendigo Town Hall Australian Goldfields Snooker Open July 9 - 15 Bendigo Stadium
Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria
While the city shines with historic beauty, cosmopolitan Bendigo is firmly set in the now. Stroll the historic streets to find a vibrant cafe culture, breath-taking architecture, an eclectic arts scene and boutique retail experiences. Or explore the region’s riches, and pick up the Food Fossickers guide to find gourmet delights. From rich, ripe reds to elegant whites, the wines from the Bendigo and Heathcote wine regions are a wine lover’s delight or simply savour a locally-made wine over a divine meal with a roaring fire in a heritage building.
Winter events include Heathcote on Show over the June long weekend, which showcases the best of Heathcote’s wine and food and art. Then in July the top 16 world ranked snooker players plus 16 qualifiers head to Bendigo for the Australian Goldfields Snooker Open. Don’t miss the Australian Sheep and Wool Show, where Bendigo becomes the epicentre for fine wool and delicious lamb. Bendigo Art Gallery’s growing reputation has seen visitors flock from across Australia in recent years. See the amazing Grace Kelly: Style Icon exhibition before it closes on June 17.
Festival of Lamb July 16 - 22 Various locations Australian Sheep & Wool Show July 20 - 22 Bendigo Showgrounds Women of Wool July 16 - 22 Various locations For more information and events go to www.bendigotourism.com or Freecall 1800 813 153
Greater Bendigo news | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbnews |
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Grace Kelly in Bendigo When people think of Grace Kelly (1929-82), one of the most photographed women of the 20th century, what they usually recall is her beauty and elegance. She rose to fame as an actress in the 1950s, starring in films by Hitchcock and others. Her image was cultivated by the movie industry, which fed cinema-goers’ growing appetite for pictures of glamorous stars through magazines and newspapers.
11 March – 17 June 2012 Bendigo Art Gallery
Grace Kelly: Style Icon highlights the spectacular wardrobe of Grace Kelly and examines her glamorous Hollywood image and enduring appeal. The exhibition features dresses from such films as High Society as well as the gown she wore to accept her Oscar in 1955. It also explores the evolution of her style as Princess Grace of Monaco, from her extensive wedding trousseau to her haute couture gowns of the 1960s and 1970s by her favourite couturiers Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy and Yves St Laurent. The exhibition is organised by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London and the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco.
Tickets Grace Kelly: Style Icon is a timed ticket exhibition. Tickets have a specific entry time at one hour intervals throughout the day (please note that this does not however limit your actual visit to one hour). This exhibition is extremely popular so it is highly recommended to book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased and collected from The Capital, online at www.gracekellybendigo.com or phone 5434 6100. Tickets are not available directly from Bendigo Art Gallery.
Grace Kelly: Film screenings Throughout the exhibition enjoy two Grace Kelly silver screen classics: High Society and Rear Window. Screenings will be on Saturdays and Sundays at 11am and 1pm at The Capital, next door to the Gallery. All tickets $8, available at the door.
Celebrate Grace Kelly Bendigo is also celebrating Grace Kelly by offering a range of exquisite Grace Kelly experiences, from couples’ and girls’ weekends away accommodation packages, wine tours to high teas and vintage fashion shopping tours. Call 1800 813 153 or visit www.gracekellybendigo.com
ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES from $85 per person* LOCAL WINE & POTTERY TOURS from $150 per person* SOCIETY HIGH TEA AT HOTEL SHAMROCK Saturday or Sunday, from $60 per person* VINTAGE FASHION SHOPPING TOURS from $65 per person* * Conditions apply. See website for packages.
Exhibition organised by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London and the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco
Left: Grace Kelly in High Society (detail) 1956. © Everett Collection / Rex Features Above: Grace Kelly (detail) 1954. Image courtesy of Philippe Halsman / Magnum Photos / Snapper Media
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What was the highlight of the Grace Kelly exhibition for you? With more than 45,000 people through the doors of the Bendigo Art Gallery since the opening of the Grace Kelly: Style Icon exhibition, we asked people what the highlight was for them. Valerie Andrews, Dunolly – The exhibition was fabulous. I love the elegant, romantic clothes and the detail in the fabrics, it took me back years.
The Capital Bendigo’s Performing Arts Centre 2012 Theatre Season CIRCA Saturday June 16: 8pm Monday June 18: 8pm From amazing acrobatics and powerful solos to a hauntingly beautiful finale, CIRCA is movement at its most adventurous.
Knee-tremblingly sexy, beautiful and moving... The Guardian
Dorothy Stroschein and Lesley McKibbin, New Gisborne – The exhibition was marvellous. Beautifully displayed and well managed, it brought back great memories.
David Stibbard, Hunter Valley NSW – I really enjoyed the exhibition, the detail was great. I named my children after characters in the High Society and Rear Window movies.
Biddies By Don Reid Saturday July 21: 8pm Diving for Pearls By Katherine Thomson Friday August 10: 8pm Saturday August 11: 8pm Mozart’s Don Giovanni Sung in English Tuesday August 28: 7.30pm Wednesday August 29: 7.30pm Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica By David Williamson Saturday September 22: 8pm Visit www.thecapital.com.au to download a subscription form.
Justin Nicholas, Atmosphere Photography
Snooker champions to hit Bendigo Jenny Graham, Berwick and Marilyn Widdowson, Melbourne – Mum and I have learnt a lot from this beautiful exhibition and the memories have been great. The wedding dress was definitely the highlight for us.
Glenda Virgora, Macedon – The exhibition took me back in time and I loved the wedding dress and the film footage.
The worlds best snooker players will assemble again in Bendigo, Central Victoria to contest the Australian Goldfields Open Championship. This year the event will be staged at the Bendigo Stadium from July 9 - 15, with the 16 best players in the world vying for honours. They will be joined by 16 qualifiers with the lowest two qualifiers playing the two Australian Wild Card entrants. With prize money of $435,000 AUD on offer, this years Australian Goldfields Open will be hotly contested.
quarter finals will be determined the day before and published by the tournament director.
Matches will be played throughout the day at The Bendigo Stadium, the order of play and table numbers for all matches up to and including the
For ticket sales go to www.bendigostadium.com.au/tickets.shtml or phone 5440 6214. Ticket box hours 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.
Australian Neil Robertson, currently ranked 4th in the world is considered amongst the favourites, with hot competition from John Higgins, Mark Selby, Mark Williams and Judd Trump. All matches up to and including Quarter Finals will be best of 9 frames, Semi Finals – best of 11 frames and the Final – best of 17 frames.
For more information BENDIGO VISITOR CENTRE 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo Open daily from 9am – 5pm (excluding 25 December). Freecall 1800 813 153 or visit www.bendigotourism.com
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Greater Bendigo
news | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbnews | 15
60 seconds with...
Your Councillors
Mayor CR Alec Sandner
FLORA HILL WARD
Mayor Cr Alec Sandner T: M: E:
1. Best holiday... Merimbula with my family
5434 6208 0428 335 177 a.sandner@bendigo.vic.gov.au
2. Comfort food... Roast duck
STRATHFIELDSAYE WARD
Cr Keith Reynard
3. Relaxing CD... Neil Diamond – Hot August Night
T: 5439 4967 M: 0428 581 198 E: k.reynard@bendigo.vic.gov.au
4. I admire... People who strive hard to achieve their ambition and do so
EAGLEHAWK WARD
Cr Peter Cox
5. I can’t live without... My wife Helen.
T: 5434 6189 M: 0427 318 490 E: p.cox@bendigo.vic.gov.au
6. What I love about Bendigo... Everything one needs is close by
KANGAROO FLAT WARD
Cr Barry Lyons T: 5434 6215 M: 0429 292 084 E: b.lyons@bendigo.vic.gov.au EPSOM WARD
Cr Lisa Ruffell
Council election 2012
T: 5434 6206 M: 0429 946 171 E: l.ruffell@bendigo.vic.gov.au
The City of Greater Bendigo Council election day is October 27, 2012. This is a postal election and votes will be sent out mid October, closing at 6pm on October 26. The results are expected by Sunday, October 28, or within a few days. Three councillors will be elected to each of three wards. Nominations open on Thursday, September 20 and close at 12 noon on Tuesday, September 25.
GOLDEN SQUARE WARD
Elmore
k Ward Whipstick Whipstic
Cr Rod Fyffe
Raywood Neilborough
T: 5434 6102 M: 0419 874 015 E: r.fyffe@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Sebastian Goornong
Huntly
Myers Flat Marong
Maiden Gully Axedale
Lockwood Ward
EPPALOCK WARD
Strathfieldsaye Mandurang
A Community and Candidate information Session will be held Tuesday May 29 Town Hall reception room 7pm to 9pm.
Lockwood
Eppalock Ward Costerfield
Ravenswood
Further information about Council elections and standing for Council is available on the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) website www.vec. vic.gov.au/stand or go to City of Greater Bendigo website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/councilelection
Heathcote
Mia Mia Redesdale
New ward structure
Cr Rod Campbell T: 5434 6203 M: 0427 514 429 E: r.campbell@bendigo.vic.gov.au SANDHURST WARD
Cr James Reade
City of Greater Bendigo
Senior Management Team
T: 5434 6190 M: 0427 881 771 E: j.reade@bendigo.vic.gov.au
195-229 Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo
Craig Niemann Chief Executive Officer
NORTH WEST PLAINS
Postal PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552 Telephone 5434 6000 Hearing or speech impaired? Call us via the National Relay Service on 133 677 Fax 5434 6200 Email requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au Website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au
Pauline Gordon Director, Community Wellbeing Stan Liacos Director, City Futures Darren Fuzzard Director, Presentation and Assets
After Hours/Emergency Number 5434 6000
Marg Allan Director, Organisation Support
Operating Hours (Main Office) 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday
Prue Mansfield Director, Planning and Development
16 | Greater Bendigo news | www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbnews
Cr Bruce Phillips T: 5434 6192 M: 0428 159 816 E: b.phillips@bendigo.vic.gov.au Councillor emails like other correspondence are the property of the City of Greater Bendigo and may be referred to a staff member for action. As with any correspondence, if you would like emails to be kept private and confidential please place “private and confidential” in the subject line.