Divercity #52

the official newsletter of the city of port phillip | issn 1328-0309 | issue 52 aug/sept 2010

Council budget special

Left to right: Rob from KĹ‘y, Renan from Claypots and Leno from Simply Spanish

Ramos-Horta to visit

New chefs of Cecil Street

Snap, write and win

Stop and Stare exhibit

Friends out west

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

mayor’s

Friendship message… goes on In the last Divercity, we invited you to comment on the draft council budget for 2010-2011. Now after receiving a range of feedback, we are pleased to present an outline of the budget that we ultimately adopted.

This edition features a number of pages looking at how the budget reflects the themes in our Council Plan — taking action on climate change, strengthening community, enhancing liveability and maximising community participation in our open and transparent decision making.

Our community consultation about the budget and the Council Plan wasn’t just tokenism. Based on your feedback, we have made some changes to the budget.

Following suggestions from Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation, we will again employ an indigenous policy and program worker. We will also redirect some money originally earmarked for purchasing more Green Power into practical initiatives, pending further advice, to reduce energy consumption around the Council. We will also be refreshing the commemorative Raoul Wallenberg garden at the St Kilda Town Hall.

Separate from the budget process, we have also renewed our friendship agreements with Suai in East Timor and Hindmarsh in Western Victoria. Our links with Hindmarsh are getting stronger and you are all invited to be part of a community tree planting weekend in Nhill during August.

Port Phillip and Hindmarsh councils have renewed their urban-rural friendship agreement for another five years.

Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor said the friendship is a great opportunity to utilise skills and knowledge in both communities.

The councils will work together on community events, planning and shared interests such as environmental sustainability.

Hindmarsh Mayor Cr Mick Gawith and Port Phillip Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor recently signed on for another five years of the urban-rural friendship agreement between the two councils.

The agreement also encourages participation in each council’s local events, such as the Hindmarsh Landcare Network annual community planting weekend and the St Kilda Film Festival national tour.

The Shire of Hindmarsh is approximately 350 kms northwest of Melbourne and is bordered in the north by the Big Desert/Wyperfeld National Park, and in the south by the Little Desert National Park.

Highlights from Hindmarsh

Hindmarsh Mayor Mick Gawith bravely conquers the bucking bull at the Nhill College FreeZa rodeo. Thanks to The Nhill Free Press and The Kaniva Times for the photograph.

In the first of a series of snapshots we’ve captured Mayor Mick Gawith showing the kids how it’s done. He jumped on the back of a bucking bull and after falling off only twice, managed to ride for five seconds while cheered on by local students at the Nhill College FreeZa rodeo. Also featured were the horizontal bungee, fairy floss and a chill out area, but the bucking bull was definitely the highlight with the mayor saying ‘that’s the slipperiest damn thing I’ve been on, and that’s a fact!’

Landcare tree planting weekend With free camping and entertainment, the Hindmarsh Landcare Network annual community Landcare planting weekend is a great excuse to get out of the city. It’s on the weekend of 14 and 15 August, with a bus leaving Southern Cross station ($30 for adults) on Friday 13 August at 1 pm and 6 pm. Registration is essential and you can get full details from Hindmarsh’s Trevor Barker on 5391 4444. Later that same week, the St Kilda Short Film Festival will be showing in Nhill as a part of its national tour.

We are pleased to team up with the Metropolitan Transport Forum and the Melbourne Weekly to host a State Election candidates’ forum to discuss public transport on Wednesday 25 August at the St Kilda Town Hall. This will be an opportunity to discuss important local public transport issues, including Balaclava Station and tram and bus improvements.

Lastly, anyone interested in being more sustainable will enjoy watching a series of short webisodes we have just added to our eHub website.

Cr Frank O’Connor, Mayor Council pays its respects to the people and elders, past and present, of Yalukit Willam and the Kulin Nation.

We acknowledge and uphold their relationship to this land.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Happy snaps at St Kilda Film Fest

The St Kilda Film Festival attracted a host of local talent. Snapped at the Fest were (top left): Underbelly: the Golden Mile star Steve Bastoni and wife Bianca; Andrew and Stephen Curry; Sigrid Thornton; and Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor with David Curzon, producer of Tomorrow — winner Best Film, Best Director, and also Best Actor for Laura Davies.

South Melbourne Market’s Cecil Street has always been a destination for famous take away fare. Now it is developing as a destination for relaxed dine-in cuisine and great cooking ideas. The opening of two new restaurants in spring will add to the seven day appeal of this part of the Market.

In a major addition to the Cecil Street frontage, the Market has opened a new demonstration kitchen facility which can host cooking classes and private dinner parties. Known at the LG Kitchen, the facility was built with financial input from LG Electronics.

Tours have already become a popular feature of the Market’s educational and tourism wing. Run mainly on weekends, these tours will now use the LG Kitchen as a starting and end point.

The main use for the LG Kitchen will be as a cooking school. Run on Wednesday and Thursday nights, the South Melbourne Market website has details of the classes available in the coming months.

Using the talents of local and celebrity chefs, the school has immediately attracted a lot of interest. The Port Phillip community appears delighted to have the opportunity to learn from local chefs.

The Market’s new chefs and restaurant operators have jumped at the opportunity to share their skills. The owners and chefs from Simply Spanish, Claypots Evening Star and Kőy (both opening in spring), have already volunteered. The owners from the Market’s Chocolate Lover and Padre Coffee stalls have also agreed to run classes. Local chefs from The Point and Long Grain are also amongst the list of local celebrities that will share their knowledge.

The Market is excited to be offering more to the community; fresh food and freshly cooked local produce. Renan Goksin from Claypots (above) celebrates his love for all things fishy.

Calling budding master chefs LG Kitchen at the Market will be the new home to cooking classes, demonstrations, private dining and gourmet events. Featuring a fantastic entertaining space, the kitchen will be a brilliant new asset to the local community. For your chance to learn the secrets and skills of some of Melbourne’s great chefs, book in for a class.

Importantly, any local chefs with skills and knowledge to share, please contact the Market about holding classes. The first program of cooking school classes is available at www.southmelbournemarket.com.au or call 9209 6295.

It’s time for the street parties again It’s nearly time again for street party season which begins in spring and summer. Street parties are a common sight in Port Phillip and we have around 30 streets each year where residents are keen to get into the spirit of enjoying their neighbourhood. Most people want to live in a more friendly community, and a street party might be a good start.

To get your street party going, you can log on to our website or call our community and health development officer on 9209 6606. We can give you advice on how to get everyone involved and make your party a fun and memorable one.

Every year in November, residents from a little avenue in Port Melbourne get together and have their early Christmas street party. ‘It is easy to get everyone involved,’ says Glenn, who usually gets other neighbours to help out with dropping off invites and requests for a plate of food to share. Since their party started a few years ago, Glenn says everyone in their street loves getting together and enjoying the street car free. He loves that he doesn’t have to walk far at all and now most neighbours know each other by name.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Market adds kitchen to the menu

Council adopts budget and plan After receiving and considering feedback from the community, the Council has adopted the 2nd year of Council Plan 2009 – 13 and the 2010/2011 Budget. The plans and budget have a significant focus on greening the City, improving options for cyclists and pedestrians and building childcare facilities for future generations.

The budget includes an increase total rates revenue of 3.8% plus 0.7% for an increase in the waste levy collected on behalf of the state government. This is well below the local government sector average of 6%.

Funding priorities and initiatives follow the four strategic objectives set out in the Council Plan; taking action on climate change, strengthening community, enhancing liveability and maximising community participation in decision making (see pages 6 – 13 for more details of the budget and funded programs).

Council rate notices will be mailed shortly with a brochure outlining the budget and plan. It also has information about the rate assistance scheme for eligible pensioners.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

voice

in the crowd…

Home based respite helps families who have children or young people with additional needs or disabilities. Divercity met two of the families receiving respite care to see the program in action.

Tim has been a respite carer for Sue’s son Fraser for four and a half years. Respite care gives parents a much needed break from caring for children with additional needs.

Both families were nervous about receiving home based respite care at first but haven’t looked back since.

Tim has been a respite carer for over 13 years and works with both of these families.

Not so tough at the top

On 17 June I took part in the St Vincent de Paul Society CEO Sleep Out at Etihad Stadium along with 160 executives and business leaders from around Victoria.

The CEO Sleep Out is an experiential event designed to introduce you to what it is like to sleep rough while raising awareness and money for St Vinnies.

Going in to the event I felt I had a good understanding of homelessness from my work at Council. Experiencing it, if only for one night, is entirely different.

After a dinner of soup and bread, armed with my sleeping bag, pillow and a piece of cardboard I set up camp for the night on the concourse of the stadium. I am lucky though. After a long and uncomfortable night with very little sleep I was able to go to my safe, warm home and have a hot shower and breakfast. Thousands of Victorians don’t have that option.

According to St Vinnies, despite commonly held stereotypes, the new face of homelessness is families including young families with children and at the last Census, over 100,000 Australians were counted as homeless.

More than $2 million was raised at this year’s event and next year I hope to see lots of Port Phillip people participating to help raise more.

Sue Wilkinson is Port Phillip’s General Manager Environment and Planning.

Have a break not a breakdown

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Council provides the training that Tim needs to work in the program and he also has a relevant qualification in the field.

The cost of home based respite is assessed and calculated using the framework provided by the Victorian Home & Community Care Department of Health, making it affordable to many families.

Tim has been a respite carer for Gus for the past five years, caring for Gus one night a week. This provides respite to Leigh and her husband Steve giving them a chance to spend some time alone and with their daughter. It has become a very important part of their family routine and Leigh credits respite care for saving her marriage. To anyone thinking about receiving home respite care Leigh says give it a whirl. ‘The benefits to the whole family are so great, and I never thought we would find someone like Tim,’ she said.

Tim has also been a respite carer for Sue’s son Fraser for over four years. The routine of Tim’s visit means friends know when they can catch her, and is also very important for Fraser. Fraser really enjoys Tim’s visits and the regular male company. The experience has been very positive for Sue and her family. She says the home based care team is always helping her out, trying to make more time and are very flexible and supportive. ‘Trust the home based team and they will help you immensely,’ she said.

For further information on how to apply for respite care or to become a respite carer contact the coordinator of Home Based Child Care and Respite on 9209 6339. Or visit www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/children_additional_needs

Guidelines put best foot forward New footpath trading guidelines have been adopted by the Council and will be implemented over the next 12 months. The new guidelines promote pedestrian safety and accessibility while balancing the need for a prosperous local economy and residential amenity.

The guidelines set specific standards for pedestrian zone widths, kerb zone widths, outdoor furniture, heaters, awnings, goods displays and A boards, and ensure Disability Discrimination Act compliance.

The guidelines follow a five month consultation and to ensure a smooth transition the Council will allow up to a 12 month period for traders to comply with the changes. All existing footpath trading permits will be re-assessed according to the new guidelines from July to December 2010. If traders believe they have special circumstances and require a variation from certain sections of the guidelines, they can request a review by the Council’s footpath trading panel.

Visit www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/footpathtrading for more information.

It’s been 10 years since Port Phillip became the first local government in Australia to sign a statement of friendship with East Timor — or Timor Leste as the Timorese call it.

As part of the links between the two communities, Timor Leste President Jose Ramos Horta will visit Port Phillip for a civic reception at St Kilda Town Hall on 9 September 2010.

In May 2010, the Council moved a motion to extend the hand of friendship for a further 10 years, linked to a collaborative strategic plan to be launched at the civic reception.

Boy (2009) in front of the unfinished Suai Cathedral where a massacre in September 2000 took 200 lives.

President Horta will also speak with secondary school students about staying connected with East Timor at a student forum at the town hall. A new generation will have the opportunity to engage with the President and talk about the future, democracy and our relationship in the region.

Through Friends of Suai, a community taskforce of local residents established in 2000, the people of Port Phillip have donated time, goods, money, skills and

eHub TV takes off

Simple, eco-friendly changes are easy to make in any home. That’s the message behind eHub TV community webisodes. Featuring many local residents, they are challenging the myth that ‘going green’ is difficult and expensive.

Creator of environmentally themed cartoon Arctic Circle (formerly published in The Age), Alex Hallatt is one such local showing how easy it can be to lessen your environmental impact, no matter your situation. ‘Small flat, big savings’ — the title of her webisode, sums up Alex’s attitude to living and working with minimal negative impact on the planet.

The six webisodes highlight steps taken by individuals like Alex, families, school groups and communities to do their bit every day. Simple tasks such as composting, turning appliances off at the power point and installing a water efficient shower head are things that anyone, whether they own their home or not, can easily do. ‘You don’t have to be a beardy-weirdy to be concerned about your environment,’ says Alex. It is simply about making what changes you can.

A chance meeting is how these changes all started for ‘accidental activist’ David Robinson. Middle Park resident David had heard of climate change but wondered ‘what could someone like me do about it?’ He is now a community activist who went from just having a compost bin to taking advantage of rebates to add both solar power and insulation to his home. He also helped organise thousands of people to make a human sign about climate change on St Kilda Beach.

To view the changes made by David, Alex and all the others in their webisodes visit www.enviroehub.com.au

friendship to their near neighbours in Suai and the surrounding district of Covalima.

In turn, the people of Suai have enriched the lives of Port Phillip residents. Their resilience in the face of unimaginable violence, their determination to create a new and better future for their children and, above all, their generosity of spirit stands as a beacon for what is best in humanity.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

East Timor leader to visit in September

The public is invited to the civic reception to welcome President Ramos-Horta.

Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor said there is much Port Phillip can offer especially with the introduction of municipal government to Suai in the near future. ‘Port Phillip is ready to play a neighbourly role in sharing knowledge in civic democracy, community development, and both the built and natural environment,’ he said There are now some 50 local government relationships with East Timor across Australia. For further information contact Pat Jessen, coordinator Friends of Suai 9209 6777 or email pjessen@portphillip.vic. gov.au

Check your enrolment With the state election already called for Saturday 27 November 2010 and a federal election announcement to be made at any time, it is important to make sure you are correctly enrolled to vote.

Enrolment forms can be collected from post offices, Centrelink offices or downloaded online. Enrolment for the state election closes at 8 pm on Tuesday 9 November 2010. It is compulsory for Australian citizens over the age of 18 years to be enrolled to vote before this time or miss out on having a say.

For any information or to check your enrolment details are correct, visit www.vec.vic.gov.au

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

council plan 10/11

Taking action on climate change

$5.247 m will be dedicated to Council’s climate change program which focuses on reducing consumption and emissions, changing transport priorities, adapting and sustaining, and working closely with the community.

Smart gadgets cut footprint

Money down the drain well spent

The Council will spend $680 k to reduce greenhouse emissions and install energy and water smart equipment in many buildings.

Smarter use of storm water will be a boom for open space and ultimately the Bay.

Currently 25% of the Council’s electricity comes from renewable sources, and is used for public lighting and in buildings.

The smart equipment, including water efficient taps, timers on appliances and altered light fittings and controls, will significantly reduce energy and water consumption.

Currently, 25% of the Council’s electricity comes from renewable sources. Another $500 k will be spent converting public lighting to more sustainable fittings.

In the coming financial year, up to 18 operational buildings and childcare centres will be inspected, and once the opportunities are identified, equipment will be fitted as required.

The Council has recently retrofitted Albert Park, St Kilda and Port Melbourne libraries, as well as some operational sites, with energy efficient lighting and taps, and installed 20 water efficient lever taps at three childcare centres.

Energy and water smart equipment will be rolled out to most Council buildings in the next three years. $500 k will be spent converting public lighting to more sustainable fittings.

Green action with business and community The Council will spend $800 k on a wide range of initiatives that involve the community and build green leadership skills.

The initiatives promote sustainable actions within the community, including continuation of the existing Climate Challenge 1000, Challenge 2 Change and Tomorrow’s Leaders for Sustainability programs.

Also funded is more work on the innovative SOCS & Blocks program (short for Sustainable Owners Corporations and Apartment Blocks) that focuses on apartment buildings. Ten blocks are already involved in audits to uncover low cost ways of increasing energy and water efficiency in common areas, boosting diversion of waste from landfill and promoting sustainable transport.

For businesses, the Council is promoting CitySwitch, a national program to assist business tenancies improve their energy efficiency, and developing a Green Business Program to help local businesses be more sustainable.

The Council will continue to support the EcoCentre to deliver its range of community-based environmental education programs.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Port Phillip and Bayside councils are working on a project to harvest storm water from Elster Port Phillip and Bayside Creek. The Council councils are working on a will spend $350 k as project to harvest storm part of stage one water from Elster Creek. In works to fund time, wetlands will help filter detailed design and storm water before it enters irrigation system Elwood Canal and the Bay. replacement at Elwood sports reserves. The new irrigation system will be able to support harvested storm water as part of stage two works. The stormwater will be filtered through wetlands in Elsternwick golf course to improve water quality discharged to the bay.

Elsewhere across the city, $100 k will fund more harvesting of storm water for street trees. This will include installing passive irrigation systems to ensure storm water is diverted from the road to our beautiful street trees.

The council will also support implementation of new storm water management planning rules (Port Phillip Planning Scheme amendment C78). The amendment promotes a range of ideas that use rainwater better, minimise peak storm water flows and improve the health of waterways by reducing stormwater pollutants.

$  $ 950 k will be spent on the South Melbourne Market to improve roofing over ‘Veggie Lane’ and construction of a substation  $ 50 k to install new and replacement cycle hoops (adding to the 100 installed at 42 locations last year)

The Council will continue to support the EcoCentre’s diverse range of community-based environmental education programs.

 $ 160 k to implement hydraulic modelling of drainage network  $ 100 k to support community gardening initiatives

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

budget 10/11

The Council wants to help people to make a shift to sustainable transport by creating more and safer bicycle paths. The budget includes $850 k for more bike lane works including Beaconsfield Parade and the foreshore bike path.

Getting around safely and sustainably With the population of Port Phillip predicted to increase by 25,000 people by 2026*, sustainable transport will be more important than ever before. The Council is supporting a wide range of initiatives to make walking, cycling and using public transport more attractive now and in the future.

Port Phillip has many natural gifts that make sustainable transport an attractive option. The generally flat terrain is great for cycling, trams provide frequent and easy connections to the city and many of our neighbourhoods provide every need within walking distance. Yet cars still dominate our streets, divide our suburbs and parking is a constant complaint.

Helping people make a shift to more sustainable transport is an important part of tackling climate change. Part of this is creating more and safer bicycle paths. Already a Copenhagen-style path has been built along Fitzroy Street, and there is funding of $850 k for more bike lane works including Beaconsfield Parade and the foreshore bike path. Less obvious but equally important are plans to improve informal pedestrian and cycle routes (including Inkerman and Rouse Streets). In all, Council will spend $1.445 m on pedestrian safety and walkability projects.

Footpaths are fundamental to sustainable transport and Council will spend $1.365 m on footpath rehabilitation. Combined with a renewed emphasis on street tree planting and streetscape beautification, the Council aims to make walking an increasingly attractive option. And if you need to take a break during your walk, you will appreciate the $600 k being spent on new street and park furniture and signage.

New variable speed limits in popular shopping areas will make streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists. Already parts of Clarendon, Carlisle and Barkly Streets have a 40 kph limit at busy times with more streets to follow. The Council will spend $660 k on new electronic signs that will remind drivers to put their foot on the brake.

Better public transport is also important, and the Council is very active behind the scenes in lobbying for improvements to tram, train and bus services. Top of the to-do list is a much needed upgrade to Balaclava Station, more frequent tram services to reduce overcrowding (especially during peak times) and better public transport links between Port Melbourne and St Kilda.

Public transport can play a greater role in bringing people to Port Phillip, not only as visitors but also for work. Recent ABS figures show that 85% of all jobs in Port Phillip are filled by nonresidents (while 75% of residents work outside the municipality). That’s a massive daily exodus, not to mention the massive volume of transit traffic passing through on commuter arterials like Brighton and St Kilda Roads. * The estimated population of Port Phillip in 2009 was 94,000. By 2026, the population is expected to exceed 119,000 people (Source — Victoria in Future 2008).

more information ➤ portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

council plan 10/11

Strengthening our diverse and inclusive community

The Council provides over 87 services for the community and will spend a total of $41.841 m delivering them.

More one-stop spots for families

Libraries are booming The many branches of the Port Phillip Library service are booming. Borrowings are up, visitors are up and the use of free wireless internet is zooming.

Included in the $2.7 m allocated for libraries are funds to make them more welcoming and friendly spaces. St Kilda, Albert Park and Emerald Hill branches will benefit from a much needed upgrade of ageing furniture and fittings. This will include replacement of worn and damaged study tables and chairs, and the addition of new soft furniture and toys in children’s areas.

The free wireless internet at the Port Phillip libraries is booming.

Pictured are St Kilda library wireless users exploring the web in casual style - possibly inspired by the adjacent sculpture.

There will also be a customised space at St Kilda to better accommodate the increasing volume of wireless internet use and respond to current safety issues with people working in corridors.

You’ll also notice that barcodes on books are being phased out and replaced with RFID (radio frequency ID) tags. Ultimately this will enable faster processing of loans and returns, and possibly more self service options.

And of course expect many more new titles — books, DVDs and games — to be available for free.

More support for sport

Sport is a big winner in the Council budget. Funded projects range from new cricket nets in Elwood Park, a reshaped oval in Alma Park, basketball courts and a $4.7 m upgrade to the North Port Oval facilities in Port Melbourne.

The North Port Oval project is expected to start in September 2010 with a total of $4.7 m funding coming from Port Melbourne Football Club, Sport and Recreation Victoria, AFL Victoria and the Council ($1.7 m).

The upgrade includes a new administration block on Williamstown Road with new change rooms and club administration areas along with a publicly accessible gym, meeting rooms and function areas. The Norm Goss Stand will also be renewed and pathways added to the reserve to improve public access.

Both these centres will bring together accessible and affordable care, education and health services for families with children aged 0-8 years. The one-stop integrated approach promotes a coordinated method to assist families in the important early years.

There’s also good news about childcare places.

Working with state and federal governments, the Council will increase the available childcare spaces by 116 over the next two years.

The Council will also adopt a new kids’ plan based on extensive consultation with children about their ideas for improving the municipality. The plan will look at many issues close to kids’ hearts, like playgrounds, animals, safety and having fun. This is part of ongoing work to recognise and respond to children as active citizens.

$  $ 150 k towards addressing access issues at Elwood Sailing Club, Albert Park VRI Bowls Club and Sandridge Life Saving Club which will enable the installation of new ramps or disabled toilets as required

South Melbourne Women’s Soccer Club

The basketball courts at Julier Reserve in Port Melbourne will also be resurfaced.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The 2010/2011 capital budget The Council will increase the allocates just over available childcare spaces by 116 $3 m to the over the next two years. completion of the St Kilda Family & Children’s Service Centre (including soil remediation) and a further $840 k for Liardet Street Family & Children’s Service Centre.

The Council has developed close working relationships with community agencies to identify and support atrisk and vulnerable children and their families.

will be able to play matches at Alma The oval at Alma Park will be Park after the oval is reshaped slightly to reshaped slightly to fit a full sized fit a full sized soccer pitch. soccer pitch. This will enable the South Melbourne Women’s Soccer Club to play matches at Alma Park.

Council has allocated $3.9 m to bring the dream of integrated family and children’s services a step closer in St Kilda and Port Melbourne.

 $ 60 k to develop the Emerald Hill precinct plan  $ 30 k to provide more opportunities for positive youth activity

 $15 k to develop “Site Un Scene” — a social inclusion project

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

budget 10/11

Fun programs like this gentle exercise class at Port Melbourne Neighbourhood House are part of the plan to help people to live well for longer.

Living well, living longer As community expectations about retirement change, so too must the Council’s services for older people.

Informed by an Older Persons Consultative Committee, the Council will develop an Ageing Well strategy to better support a new generation of the older generation.

While not everyone wants to have a rock’n’roll retirement, more people are enjoying many more active years in their third age. Most people want more opportunities to be active in their community and expect a wide range of support options to live independently as long as possible.

With active groups like University for the Third Age and Life Activity Clubs, many older people will take up the challenge to be active and engaged themselves. From walking groups to philosophical discussions, creative arts to yoga, there’s always a lot going on in our communities (often in Council supported venues).

Inspired by the OPCC, the Council has organised and expanded the Linking Neighbours and Seniors Register in

conjunction with Victoria Police. The register gives the police quick access to family contacts in case of emergency, while Linking Neighbours connects people through social activities such as café and pub meetings and bus trips inside and outside of the community.

Help to stay at home The Council helps older people to continue living in their homes by providing a range of community care programs. In 2010/2011, more than $5 m of both Council funds and state government funding will be spent on home support, personal care, respite care, property maintenance, delivered meals and the community meals subsidy program.

The community bus also helps bring people who would otherwise have difficulty accessing public (or any) transport to get around. The program also supports other transport providers in the community such as South Port Day Links (which provides transport to things like medical appointments).

To find out more or to access any of these services, call ASSIST 9209 6777.

more information ➤

With support from the state government, the Council also has programs that reach out to isolated people and strives to link them to social and recreational activities.

The Meals in Rooming Houses program helps residents to participate in food preparation and improving their diet.

There’s also a social meals program at Cora Graves Centre.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

council plan 10/11

enhancing liveability

Community consultation stressed that transport, traffic and parking issues together with great streetscapes, public and recreational spaces are key features in a more liveable city.

The Council will spend $71.227 m to make Port Phillip a better place to live.

Market roof will be tops Designs for a new roof over the South Melbourne Market car park will include many smart ideas.

Port Phillip can be a great place to live, work and play — but this popularity sometimes brings social problems like alcohol fuelled violence.

Not only will the roof help to protect both cars and the market from the weather, it will also help cool the shopping area in summer.

The design will include an option for an array of solar panels and rainwater harvesting that will meet many of the market’s other needs — including flushing the toilets and cleaning.

The Council has already completed an engineering feasibility study about the roof, and the designs are expected to be completed in 2011 with construction to follow.

Enjoying a good night out at a

A total of $950 k will be spent on market maintenance and upgrades.

The South Melbourne Market makes it fun to buy locally. Culinary consultant Janet Lillie takes shoppers on tours of the market to help them buy the best quality local produce.

Serious about playtime A new fort, shade sails and a beach play area are just some of the play space upgrades planned for 2010/2011.

The St Kilda Adventure Playground’s fort is a great and memorable feature of this truly unique, ramshackle and creative kids’ space. $150 k will be spent on building a new fort to make it safe but still fun.

In Catani Gardens, the brightly coloured play equipment recently installed will be covered with a shade cloth to make it sun smart. The $60 k project needs to be especially designed to withstand the foreshore conditions and complement the beauty of the famous gardens.

portphillip.vic.gov.au

Complex social local restaurant or bar is part of problems rarely life in Port Phillip. The Council have simple will be working closely with venue solutions and owners and police to reduce alcohol related problems so reducing the everyone has a good night. negative impacts often involves many parts of the community working together.

The Council will be working with venue operators, police, residents and others to develop an Entertainment Precinct Management Plan. High on the agenda are actions to continue to support licensees’ and police efforts to further reduce violence and improve the safety for residents.

The Council will also continue its investigations on the impact of gambling on the community and develop strategies in response.

The campaign to have the Grand Prix relocated will also continue.

$

 $ 4.217 m will be spent on street cleaning  $100 k lifesaving clubs The brightly coloured play equipment recently installed in Catani Gardens will be covered with a shade cloth to make it sun smart.

In South Melbourne, the Plum Garland will get a $40 k upgrade to design an exciting new beach play area that will involve extensive community consultation to determine the needs of local residents and visitors for this popular foreshore destination.

10

Tackling social issues that impact on liveability

 $ 949 k will be spent on economic development initiatives including programs to support sustainable business initiatives

 $ 600 k laneway upgrades and redevelopment of bluestone lanes and improving stormwater runoff

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

budget 10/11

Parks and reserves will also benefit from extra expenditure above the normal upkeep. The magnificent St Vincent gardens (pictured) will get an irrigation upgrade to protect heritage trees.

Caring for the places we share Port Phillip is blessed with parks, popular beaches and streets that range from the humble to magnificent boulevards. We share these places, they are our common ground. The Council devotes literally millions of dollars to their upkeep — $22.43 m to be precise — here’s just a glimpse of what’s planned for 2010/2011.

Beaches from Port Melbourne to Elwood are a great place to start.

Cleaned daily during summer by clever machines and hardworking cleaning crews, the beaches are used by literally millions of people. The 2010/2011 budget features some great news for beach lovers, including $360 k for landscaping on Middle Park including an exercise station, rain garden to collect beach shower run off, seating and lighting upgrade to create a vibrant beach space.

Council shall contribute $250 k to the state government’s $2.5 m Elwood Beach sand top. Perc White Reserve shall have $150 k to protect and improve the natural landscape in that area.

Our street trees are also a magnificent and precious asset. The Council has a new tree strategy that will see an extra $600 k spent on street tree planting in 29 streets across the municipality.

There’s also specific funding for fig tree replacement in Beacon Cove and avenue tree planting on Fitzroy Street.

Parks and garden maintenance is also a big job. $2.5 m is devoted to garden bed, lawn and playground maintenance, including irrigation. Tree maintenance programs cost $1.7 m with an additional $300 k spent for replacement of park and street trees that have died or become unsafe.

Parks and reserves will also benefit from extra expenditure above the normal upkeep. The magnificent St Vincent gardens will get an irrigation upgrade to protect heritage trees. Plans will be drawn for Murphy Reserve, Waterloo Reserve (St Kilda) and Turville Place Reserve (Port Melbourne).

To help celebrate the 150th anniversary of the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, $250 k will be spent on improvements to the pond. The works will include draining the pond, levelling and new liner, aquatic plants to provide habitat and water quality improvements.

more information ➤ portphillip.vic.gov.au

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The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

council plan 10/11

engaging and governing the city

Council will improve systems to better manage our major public assets and will be implementing a communications and engagement strategy, including an upgrade to the Port Phillip website to make it more vibrant and user friendly.

Better informed and more involved

Information exchange The Council uses a variety of mediums to keep the exchange of information between the community and Council flowing.

Community reference groups enable locals to give Council informed and independent advice on many important issues.

At the forefront of the information flow is Port Phillip online which gives you 24/7 access to a wealth of Council and community information.

You can reserve a library book, apply for a permit, contact your councillors or discover the details of hundreds of Council services.

Divercity newsletter that you are now reading will be delivered by Australia Post to every home six times a year. The newsletter helps keep you informed about your community and Council. Divercity also features lift-out supplements that list courses and classes, foreshore activities and other events for the community.

The Council is literally involving hundreds of people in a huge range of community reference groups. At last count there were over 25 such groups and the number is growing as the Council progresses its plan.

Topics range from input into the plans for local parks and reserves, to municipality wide topics like climate change, trees and animal management.

Divercity newsletter is delivered six times a year to every letterbox in Port Phillip. It increases community participation by promoting community and Council activities.

Council is always looking for community members to join reference groups. If you would like to register your interest please call ASSIST on 9209 6777 or email assist@portphillip.vic.gov.au

The Port Phillip websites will be reviewed and revised over the next 12 months to make them more user friendly.

Service Excellence Program: Putting you first A community-first philosophy will be at the heart of a service excellence program involving frontline staff at the Council.

The Council conducts regular surveys of residents and ratepayers to gauge their opinion on the quality of service. Over recent years, Port Phillip has consistently received very good customer service performance ratings, especially for the call centre and the service desks at the three town halls.

Community consultations like the Climate Conversation session (pictured) are an opportunity for more people to have an informed say on Council policies.

It is anticipated that many Council processes will be changed to make them more ‘community friendly’.

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$

 $ 100 k for a fully integrated contract management system

Throughout 2010/2011, a new service excellence program will build on that strong foundation by promoting a community-first philosophy across the entire Council. The program will help improve the service skills of staff and look at ways to improve inefficient processes.

 $ 300 k to develop a new IT strategy  $ 50 k to implement a service excellence program to improve internal and external service delivery Throughout 2010/2011, a new service excellence program will build a community-first philosophy across the entire Council.

 $ 1.226 m devoted to community engagement and information channels

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

budget 10/11

The Council invites you to have your say in many ways. Pictured are Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor (left) with Cr Serge Thomann and Yarra Trams CEO Michel Masson on a tram as part of the community engagement on climate change.

New ways to have your say Meaningful community consultation is high on the Council’s agenda, and we value community feedback which helps inform our decision-making.

To ensure we continue to actively inform, consult, involve, collaborate and empower our community while collecting their feedback on issues that matter to them, we have introduced an independently moderated online engagement tool. This interactive forum is helping us reach members of the community who are hard to reach through the more traditional forms of community consultation.

And while face-to-face consultations will always form a large part of our community consultation strategy, our Have Your Say online forum is another important tool in helping the Council include community input into council decisions.

Have Your Say allows our community to choose when and where to be engaged, and opens the way for ‘new voices’ and ‘new conversations’ to be conducted on issues that really matter to our community. It’s about us listening to the community and giving you a voice.

You can find our Have Your Say page at: www.portphillip.vic.gov. au/haveyoursay So why don’t you jump online and take a look at

what consultations the Council is currently running, and have your say on issues that are important to you.

Community forums and more Following the success of community forums on trees and climate change, the Council will continue to invite you to meet others in the community and discuss topics of mutual interest.

There will also be more conversation tents with councillors and Council officers at community venues such as farmers markets and shopping strips.

Of course, there is always the opportunity to contact your ward councillor or come to Council meetings to see the discussion and decision-making first hand. The Council meetings will continue to be held across a variety of town hall venues.

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The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

councillors…

Cr Frank O’Connor, Mayor Emerald Hill BH: 9209 6431 AH: 9690 1080 M: 0432 289 012 F: 9536 2711 E: mayor@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Councillor budget highlights 2010 – 2011 Cr Thomann: Funding for landscaping for the Luna Park tram interchange will help make that iconic intersection both beautiful and functional. There are also plans to review the St Kilda Film Festival to make it even bigger and better. While along the foreshore, we have new on-street bike lanes and funds to bring Marina Reserve closer to completion. I am also hoping for a trial of a car-free Acland Street on Sundays over summer.

Cr Rachel Powning, Deputy Mayor Carlisle BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9527 1896 M: 0418 389 346 F: 9536 2715 E: rpowning@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Janet Bolitho Sandridge BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9645 4754 M: 0411 096 400 F: 9536 2766 E: jbolitho@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Judith Klepner Albert Park BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9682 7314 M: 0409 968 850 F: 9536 2768 E: jklepner@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Cr Bolitho: The budget funds some great ideas to help make everyday walking and cycling easier. My number one priority, making the Liardet/Bay St intersection safer for everyone has also been funded. There are funds to make it safer for children to get to Port Melbourne Primary across Poolman Street. We’ll also be improving the ‘look and feel’ of Rouse Street (West) to by adding more trees — it’s tremendous to see funding of the new tree strategy.

Cr Middleton: I’m pleased that we are substantially increasing funding to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. The new roof over the South Melbourne Market will realise multiple environmental as well as financial benefits and will improve amenity for users, particularly on hot days. Council will prepare a feasibility study looking at better pedestrian/cycling access across Queens Road to provide residents of the St Kilda Road/Queens Road area with improved access to Albert Park and to the South Melbourne activity centre.

Cr John Middleton Junction BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9645 9346 M: 0432 324 133 F: 9536 2719 E: jmiddleton@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Serge Thomann Catani BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9534 6297 M: 0432 299 372 F: 9536 2767 E: sthomann@portphillip.vic.gov.au Cr Jane Touzeau Point Ormond BH: 9209 6705 AH: 9531 8753 M: 0432 287 634 F: 9536 2769 E: jtouzeau@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Cr Touzeau: My highlights include the partnership with Bayside Council to develop further wetlands to increase storm water capture from Elster Creek for irrigation and to treat the water before it reaches the Bay. I am also pleased about works to retain stormwater for passive watering of mature street trees. The renourishment of Elwood Beach and the better drainage is also good news. These are significant steps towards a more sustainable city.

Cr Powning: Trees, trees and more trees! I like the plans to improve walking and cycling paths for locals to commute through local neighbourhoods (especially children to and from school). I’m also really pleased we have budgeted to create more childcare places, and to consider options for a much needed upgrade of the St Kilda Library.

Cr Klepner: We are increasing services and programs for older people while continuing to roll out more quality childcare. There will be upgrade works on the beloved Mary Kehoe Centre, support for community gardens and improvements to the sustainability of Council buildings. There’s also work on drains, one of the hidden infrastructure responsibilities of local government. Look forward to stronger heritage protection with improved environmental and public amenity through proposed changes to the planning scheme.

All enquiries during office hours should be directed to the Mayor and Councillors’ Office Mayor Tel: 9209 6431 (Barbara Wilson,

Mayoral Exec. Assistant) Fax: 9536 2711 Email: mayor@portphillip.vic.gov.au Councillors: Tel: 9209 6705 (Mary Baensch, Councillors’ Support Officer)

Fax: 9536 2708

Email: see individual email addresses All councillors email: councillors@portphillip.vic.gov.au Postal address: City of Port Phillip, Private Bag No. 3, PO St Kilda Vic 3182

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Cr O’Connor: A number of important South Melbourne projects will be funded to move forward. Designs for a roof on the Market car park will be developed. Ultimately the roof will better protect the market from weather as well as catching water and housing solar panels. The revisioning of the Emerald Hill precinct as a dynamic civic and arts hub will continue, while there will be more work on the Cecil Street bike path.

focus…

The art of school fund raising ALBERT PARK: Be seen at the opening night of the Albert Park Primary School Art Exhibition. Enjoy art works, meeting the exhibiting artists, fine food, wine, live music and maybe some purchasing. Opening Night is Friday 3 September, 7 pm - 10.30 pm.

Tickets $30 per adult. Alternatively family day may be more your style — on Saturday Albert on Show Oil on 4 September 10 am - 4 pm. Entry is free, canvas, Amanda TonkinHill 102cm x 76cm. there will be workshops for the kids, a BBQ and other activities. Get tickets by emailing appsartexhibition@gmail.com or roll up at the Albert Park Primary School church hall (enter via Cardigan Place)

Eat, pray, Hare Krishna

Been working so hard ELWOOD: Elwood College students are tearing up the town and are gonna cut loose for opening night of their college musical Footloose on Wednesday 28 July. Held at the Phoenix Theatre, Glenhuntly Road, Elwood. Show closes 30 July. For ticket enquiries call 9531 9566.

National Tree Planting Day ELWOOD: A community planting session will be held on Sunday 1 August 10 am - 12 pm. Meet behind the Elwood Angling Club and contribute to the revegetation of the foreshore.

Let climate change inspire you ELWOOD: Join Artists for Climate Action on a fun walk of Elwood Canal on Sunday 8 August at 10.30am; meet beside the canal at the Glenhuntly Road crossover. Get some inspiration for the Elwood Poetry Prize 2010’s theme ‘Elwood Canal — past, present, future’.

Bendigo Bank is sponsoring a $100 prize for best poem by an Elwood community group. Other cash prizes are available for a range of categories including ‘most touching expression of an environmental issue’, haiku, illustrated or multimedia poem, and limericks!

Entries close Monday 30 August. Entry forms available via ASSIST on 9209 6777, or www.live.org.au

Don your team colours

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

d o o h r u o b h g i ne

ELWOOD: See the AFL Grand Final on the big screen at the Elwood RSL, cnr Pine Ave/Ormond Road on Saturday 25 September from 1 pm. Lunch will be available, competitions will be running and the bistro will open early at 5.30 pm. Ronnie Charles Retro Band will take the stage from 8.30 pm. Bookings 9531 4331 or turn up on the day.

Wandering the world of eternal rest

MIDDLE PARK: Port Phillip Multifaith network presents its last Open House for the year at the Hare Krishna Temple. Learn how to cook inexpensive, nutritious vegetarian meals. It’s free, and an opportunity to experience the hospitality of the Hare Krishnas who have been Port Phillip residents for around 30 years. Bookings essential, call Cristina Del Frate 9209 6385 or email cdelfrat@ portphillip.vic.gov.au; 197 Danks Street, Middle Park, Thursday 5 August 6.30 pm - 9 pm.

Enjoy a Jamboree?

ALBERT PARK: The 1st Victorian Sea Scouts are looking for adult leaders to help with their growing program. If you would like to help out, contact Steve Hibbard 0412 380 423 or visit www.victorianseascouts.weebly.com There are leadership roles open for adults who want to plan, operate and grow the program, as well as places for those who want to help on a part time or casual basis. Meeting times are as follows: Cubs — Wednesday 6.30 pm to 8 pm, Scouts — Mondays 7 pm to 9 pm and Venturers — Tuesday from 7.30 pm to 9.30pm.

Preschool relocates ALBERT PARK: Montessori Community Preschool has relocated from Stonnington Primary School to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. It will provide a Montessori based kindergarten program for children aged 3 - 5 years in Port Phillip. For more information email montessori.mcp@optusnet.com.au or call Jackie on 9926 1639.

ST KILDA: Summon your courage and join the Friends of St Kilda Cemetery on a selection of themed moonlight tours. Bring your own torch (to see the bats and foxes) and a warm jacket. Saturday 25 September 6.30 pm. $15 plus booking fee. If you prefer to tour the cemetery by daylight then perhaps the August Booksellers, Authors & Literati tour is more for you. Sunday 22 August, 2.00 pm $10 plus booking fee. Bookings essential at www.foskc.org

A birthday symphony SOUTH MELBOURNE: To mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Frederic Chopin, come along to an afternoon concert at South Melbourne Town Hall with the South Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Program includes Dvorak’s New World Symphony and the Grand Valse Brillante (orchestrated by Stravinsky). Sunday 12 September, 2.30 pm, tickets $15/$10.

Where is the friendliest ‘hood’?

PORT PHILLIP: It is time to warm up your facial muscles and increase your neighbourhoods ‘smiles per hour’ (SpH). The race is on for this year’s coveted ‘Port Phillip’s friendliest neighbourhood award’. Albert/Middle Park is in the lead with a rating of 26 SpH. Port Melbourne is not far off the pace with a cracking 24 SpH. Last year’s most improved SpH winner South Melbourne has had a down turn with only 12 SpH. It’s time to get happy! To find out more about the Smiles per Hour project go to www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/ smiles_per_hour.To volunteer your smile-espionage services contact alhooper@portphillip.vic.gov.au

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Make a big noise about it!

focus…

Tree replanting PORT PHILLIP: Elwood Foreshore and Canterbury Road Urban Forest have had a considerable amount of dead, dying, or unhealthy trees removed. New shrubs and trees will be planted up until August.

Some planting will be supported by Earthcare and Conservation Volunteers Australia.

Penguins in record numbers Penguin Population at St Kilda Breakwater 1400 1215

1200 Number

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

d o o h r u o b h g i ne

1025

1000

854

800 600 400

432

520

310

200

SOUTH MELBOURNE: The Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) will be holding a community open day on Sunday 29 August 11 am – 5 pm. Tour the buildings, see rehearsals, or watch Maestro Richard Gill conduct Stravinsky’s ‘Symphonies of Wind Instruments’.

You too can make some noise by bringing along your instrument to participate in the Big Play alongside the Orchestra of the Academy.

All musical abilities are welcome. For more information or to register your interest in the Big Play, call ANAM on 9645 7911 or visit www.anam.com.au

Butcher hangs his hook

0 1999/00 2001/02 2003/04 2005/06 2007/08 2009/10

Population estimate Members of Earthcare St Kilda have been monitoring the Little Penguins health for the past 24 years.

ST KILDA: Penguin populations at St Kilda Breakwater have increased to record numbers. A massive increase in the past year has reversed three years of decline. With an estimated 1215 little critters nesting in 262 sites, there are a few simple things we can do to protect the penguins: help reduce litter and restrict human access to the breeding sites. The Earthcare volunteers cover torches and flashes with red cellophane to protect the birds from bright white light which elevates their heart rate and causes them stress.

Expose St Kilda!

ST KILDA: The St Kilda Photography and St Kilda Word Prizes are back by popular demand. In 1,500 words or less tell us about your St Kilda. Or get snapping and capture the essence of St Kilda. Both competitions have cash prizes of up to $7,000.

Entries close Friday 13 August. See www.stkildaessence.com. au for more information.

An exhibition of the winners’ work will be held from the 6 – 21 October 2010.

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Butcher boys, George Karambetsos and John Kavvidias (with moustache).

SOUTH MELBOURNE: One of South Melbourne Market’s most loved stallholders, George Karambetsos, has hung up his butchers’ hook after 33 years of supplying tasty meats. George set up P & G Meats with his brother Peter after arriving from Greece. Long hours and heart problems forced George’s decision to close up but it doesn’t mean the end of his links with the market’s legendary deli aisle. His wife Rita runs the coffee and nuts stall while daughter Sophie has the adjacent coffee shop.

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

in brief

Call out for community choir

Business awards a winner Record nominations have been received for this year’s CitiPower Port Phillip Business Excellence Awards with over 600 local businesses nominated. Award winners will be announced at a gala evening at St Kilda Town Hall on Thursday 21 October. Finalists will be announced at a free networking evening for business on Tuesday 31 August. Find out more and book online at www.portbizawards.com.au

Parenting 1 – 4 year-olds A parenting educator from the Drummond Street Relationship Centre is facilitating a free seminar for parents with lots of ideas, practical strategies and humour. The seminar will look at: • Ages and stages — where they’re at • Building a close relationship • Managing behaviour • Toilet training Elwood Community Playgroup 51 Broadway, Elwood 23 September 6.30 pm – 8 pm Light refreshments provided

Stacks on at MSAC

MSAC’s school holiday program for kids aged 5-12 years includes aquatic games, basketball, cricket, inflatable soccer, AFL, movies and more. Surf the waves, speed down the waterslide, tackle the monster inflatables or master the aqua climb wall at SplashOUT. PlanetSport School holiday program 9 am – 4.30 pm daily (bookings essential) SplashOUT waves 11 am – 4 pm weekends and school holidays.

Swim School MSAC offers intensive five day swimming programs for children aged 3 – 16 years.

Programs include private and group learn-toswim classes and an intensive squad program.

Week one, 20 - 24 September Week two, 27 September - 1 October Bookings open 21 August For more information please contact MSAC Swim School on 9926 1581, swimschool@msac. com.au or visit www.msac.com.au

Join this small, relaxed and friendly community choir. With a repertoire including African, gospel, pop, folk and classical the choir performs each term at community events. No auditions but you need to be able to sing in tune. Contact Simone Eyssens (Director) on 0402 001 150.

Creative Ministries Network, Cnr Hotham and Inkerman Street, East St Kilda.

Saturdays 3 pm - 5 pm

MSAC advisory committee

Ingenious guide to local plants

The CoPP Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre (MSAC) Advisory Committee is seeking individuals to join the committee as community representatives for a period of two years. The committee assists Council by ensuring that the views of CoPP, community members and relevant community service providers are expressed and taken into account in the ongoing operation of MSAC. Representatives are required to attend bimonthly meetings.

Call 9209 6806 or send your submission to David Shepard, Coordinator Recreation, City of Port Phillip, Private Bag No. 3, PO St Kilda, 3182

Social Support Groups Social Support provides recreational activities to residents of Port Phillip and consists of a range of social, cultural and health related activities for: • Older residents 65+ • Younger people with disabilities • T hose living in supported residential services or experiencing mental health issues • Carers support groups and activities A small contribution applies to assist with the cost of meals, transport and program activities.

Referrals may be made to the community access team leader. To contact the service call 9209 6738, telephone ASSIST on 9209 6777.

Indigenous Plants of the Sandbelt, a Gardening Guide for South-Eastern Melbourne will help even the brownest of thumbs to make their garden flourish. The guide includes flowering seasons, and how to attract fauna and edible plants. Funds raised from the sale of the book support Earthcare St Kilda and the Port Phillip Ecocentre.

Copies $25, available at the Ecocentre; St Kilda Indigenous Nursery Cooperative; St Kilda, South Melbourne and Port Melbourne Town Halls; St Kilda, Port Melbourne and Albert Park libraries. Call 9534 0670 or visit www. ecocentre.com/ecoshop for more details.

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The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

in brief

Women in the spotlight

Shoestring Opera and the ties that bind

Theatre Works presents Girls@Work as part of Melbourne Fringe Festival 2010. Performers include dance/physical theatre companies Liquid Skin (Rochelle Carmichael and Jenny Robinson) and The She Session (Sally Smith, Trudy Radburn and Tirese Ballard), award-winning author Hoa Pham, cabaret sensation Isabel Hertaeg and cross-disciplinary artist Alison Richards.

Port Phillip based Shoestring Opera will perform Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas. The roles of Dido and Aeneas will be sung by South Melbourne soprano Tracey Hendy and tenor Adam Wood (pictured).

St Silas Church, Bridport Street, Albert Park Friday 6 August, 7.30 pm

23 September - 9 October Details and bookings www.theatreworks.org.au or 9534 3388

Get snapping

A prize of $2,500 is on offer to the person who can create a new image for St Kilda Festival 2011. The winning design will capture the vibrancy of St Kilda and the spirit and atmosphere of the festival.

Saturday 7 August, 4 pm All tix $25 Ph 9696 5116

Visit www.stkildafestival.com.au for competition details, terms and conditions.

Entries close Friday 27 August 2010

Q&A at U3A Port Phillip U3APP will engage a panel of experts as part of the program ‘Seniors in the spot light’, with speakers representing a wide range of views as they discuss two hot topics. More details on the website soon. Bookings essential, contact 9696 3495.

Help create St Kilda Fest 2011

Refugees, Asylum Seekers, and Immigration: Saturday 21 August

Festival organisers are on the lookout for the best local talent to build the 2011 St Kilda Fest lineup. There are opportunities for:

Perspectives on Population Growth: Saturday 16 October:

• Live n local and new music stage

U3APP, Mary Kehoe Centre, 224 Danks Street, Albert Park, www.u3app.org.au

Free physio for over 65s ‘Making a Move’ is a free program of 15 onehour physiotherapist led exercise classes designed to improve balance and help prevent falls in over 65s. Participants get a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment, individual exercise program and follow up.

Contact 9534 0981 (St Kilda) or 9690 9144 (Southport) for more information.

Betty Day Centre Tuesdays 1 pm – 3 pm from 13 July Liardet Street Community Centre Thursdays 1 pm – 3 pm from 26 August

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New image for St Kilda Fest

portphillip.vic.gov.au

• Traders Melbourne documentary photographer Georgia Metaxas will be facilitating free photography workshops, which form part of The Babel Project, a Jewish Museum of Australia community arts project that explores diversity and multiculturalism. Participants can learn basic photography techniques while unleashing their inner creativity. Anyone over 18 who lives in the City of Port Phillip is welcome to attend. Cameras provided free of charge.

Information sessions and registration: Wednesday 4 August 1 pm - 2 pm St Kilda Town Hall Council Chamber Bookings are essential and places are limited.

Contact Christina Del Frate on 9209 6385 or 0421 582 732 or cdelfrat@portphillip.vic.gov.au

• Children’s entertainers • Event proposals • Stall holders Bands/musicians and event proposal deadline is 30 September 2010. For more information and to apply go to www.stkildafestival.com.au

Seniors, beat the winter blues Members of Port Phillip Life Activities Club continue to enjoy their outdoor activities, but for those who prefer the indoors, there are two film groups, a book group, live theatre outings, dine-outs and opportunities to socialise with other members.

Call 9686 4942 for more information.

Students show sustainable flair The Sustainable School Awards is an annual event for local schools to showcase their achievements in sustainability. Hosted by the Port Phillip EcoCentre and the Council, this event features student presentations, performances, awards, activities and celebration. This year’s awards will include the Elwood Poetry Prize school entry awards.

Tuesday 14 September; 10 am to 1pm St. Kilda Town Hall Auditorium

This exhibition showcases a variety of artworks created by people who participate in inclusive arts projects within the City of Port Phillip.

Groups presenting their artwork include: • JCAAA’s Holiday Arts for Adults • JCAAA’s SnapShot Photography • Community Access Arts Works • Friday Leisurely Art Group • KickstART Contemporary Art Artists in the exhibition come from a variety of backgrounds and are of varying abilities.

The Gallery, St Kilda Town Hall Opening Friday 6 August 2 pm – 4 pm

BikeScope – have your say and light the way

St Kilda Town Hall - Corner Brighton Road and Carlisle Street, St Kilda South Melbourne Town Hall - 208/220 Bank Street, South Melbourne

Imperial Russian Ballet

Translations

Port Melbourne Town Hall - 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne

For a translation of the information contained in this edition of Divercity please call the Council’s interpreter service: Chinese 9679 9810 Greek 9679 9811 Russian 9679 9813 Polish 9679 9812 Other languages 9679 9814

Audio recordings

Community Kitchen

The Port Phillip is recognised as one of the most ‘film friendly’ municipalities in Victoria and has a great reputation amongst local and international crews. The month of May had a record number of permits issued to filmmakers and photographers. The city hosted film crews as diverse as Bollywood features to student short films. Of the current television series being shot in Victoria, five of them — City Homicide, Rush, Killing Time, The Librarians, and Angry Boys all took advantage of the diverse range of locations that Port Phillip provides. The Council’s film liaison service works with producers to ensure that residents and businesses are affected as little as possible during the filming while making sure this important local industry is supported. Was that Clive Owen in Acland Street? You never know.

You can visit your local ASSIST at:

Telephone 9209 6777 Fax 9536 2722 TTY line 9209 6713 SMS for the hearing impaired 0432 005 405 Email assist@portphillip.vic.gov.au Internet www.portphillip.vic.gov.au E-newsletter — subscribe online at www.portphillip.vic.gov.au

*PS To be part of SnapShot Photography contact JCAAA on 9209 6159 or email jedwards@portphillip.vic.gov.au. Participants must live within the Cities of Bayside, Glen Eira, Port Phillip and Stonnington and have a disability.

Watch for stars in film friendly city

Information, requests, questions and feedback

Bicycle Victoria, on behalf of Port Phillip, is conducting BikeScope, an online survey that will collect feedback on cycling issues from bike riders in Port Phillip. It allows you to ‘pin point’ problem locations on a map. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a prize draw for a full dynohub light worth $800. To complete the survey, head to the BV website before the survey closes on Sunday 15 August 2010; www.bv.com.au/bikefutures/91770/

4 August - 1 September

Would you love to learn how to cook your favourite foods, make friends and have fun?

JCAAA is currently taking expressions of interest for this exciting new program. Call 9209 6753 or email brayner@portphillip.vic. gov.au to register. Participants must live within the Cities of Bayside, Glen Eira, Port Phillip and Stonnington and have a mild to moderate disability.

contact assist…

The Official Newsletter of the City of Port Phillip

Stop and Stare Art

The Imperial Russian Ballet Company will perform Tchaikovsky’s enduring favourite, The Nutcracker at the Palais Theatre. The cast of 45 dancers straight from Moscow will be joined onstage by 40 children from a Melbourne ballet school.

Friday 3 – Sunday 5 September Palais Theatre, St Kilda Book at www.ticketmaster.com.au

Be first to win movie tickets We’re giving away movie passes to the Palace George Cinema in our reader competition.

The tickets will go to the first reader from each Port Phillip postcode to email your answer to this edition’s question: The President of which nation will visit Port Phillip in September?

Email your answer (with your address and postcode) to divercity@portphillip.vic.gov.au The first answer from each Port Phillip postcode (received after 25 July 2010) will win two Palace movie passes. To spread the love, we are now limiting prizes to one per household per year.

Audio recordings of Divercity are available on the Council’s website and on CD from a Port Phillip library. CDs are delivered to 200 vision-impaired residents every issue.

Information included in this magazine is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.

divercity Aug/Sept 2010

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Editor: Greg Day gday@edunity.com.au Next deadline: (Oct/Nov edition) 20 August 2010 Writers: Kathryn McGrath, Claudene Shoesmith, Miriam Wilson and Greg Day Photography: Chris Cassar, Miriam Wilson and Greg Day Design and Production: Mediation Communications Feedback: divercity@portphillip.vic.gov.au Divercity is printed on recycled paper

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Metropolitan Transport Forum and Melbourne Weekly Emerald Hill present

State election: Public transport forum

A long awaited upgrade to Balaclava Station will be one of the topics at the Port Phillip transport forum.

You’re invited to a special forum on local public transport issues in the context of the forthcoming state election.

Chaired by Port Phillip Mayor Cr Frank O’Connor, the forum will include speakers from all the major parties and questions from the community.

Topics will include the future of Balaclava Station, tram and bus improvements.

7 pm – 8.15 pm Wednesday 25 August St Kilda Town Hall RSVP 9209 6777 or pprsvp@pt4me2.org.au by 20 August.