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Diamond Creek
Diamond Creek
Diamond Creek
Diamond Creek
208 Main Hurstbridge Rd
3 Mindara Court
25 Felicia Rise
2 The Parkway
Shop 10/67 Main Hurstbridge Road, Diamond Creek 0419434111
0419373009
HURSTBRIDGE'S MONASH BRIDGE
THE DIAMOND CREEK CONNECTION
Henry Hurst built a wooden bridge in the 1860's on the family property, Alwood. It became known as Hurst's Bridge and provided access into the early 1900's.
nection with Diamond Creek. It provided employment for a number of men from the town and surrounding area during its construction.
Below is a photograph that shows the bridge under construction in 1917. The men providing their skills and labour are from Diamond Creek - L to R (foreground) Arthur Luxford, W Hatch, RW Harrington, Jack Godber, Ted Pepper, Jack Grandy The township near Alwood can be viewed behind – the railway station and Wattle Cafe, not visible, are behind trees to the right. The original wooden bridge is still fully visible to the right, just downstream to the south of the new one.
Original wooden bridge spanning the Diamond Creek at Hurstbridge – the level piece of land on the west side of the creek where the house stood is still used today
The bridge has carried all types of road transport since it was opened in 1918. Until the 1960's and 70's, the pace and speed of traffic allowed two cars to pass each other on the bridge without giving
A new reinforced concrete bridge, which became known as the Monash Bridge, was constructed in 1917. It was named for Sir John Monash whose company produced the design and constructed the bridge. His company had become experts in bridge construction and introduced the Monier method of reinforcing concrete to Victoria. Sir John, however, had left for active service during the early years of the First World War so the design was provided by one of his talented engineers. The bridge may have been built for Hurstbridge's residents, but it also has a con-
A number of men from Diamond Creek worked on the construction of the Monash Bridge in 1917
way. Difficult to imagine today as the bridge is now single lane. In early days, children on their way home from school often wondered if they could get from one side of the arch to the other below the road. The gap is so narrow that it seems hardly possible, who knows if some did make it through! Jean Verso, Nillumbik Historical Society
View of the Monash bridge soon after construction, looking west
now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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The Diamond Creek News
Distribution: 3500+
P.O. Box 38 Diamond Creek Phone: 0419 337 933 Email: devpress@optusnet.com.au
DISCLAIMER The Diamond Creek News provides the opportunity for each of the elected Nillumbik Councillors in the Wards surrounding Diamond Creek to publish a report to their constituents, as well as reports from State and Federal Government Members. The views expressed in these reports are those of the authors and not those of the Committee of the Diamond Creek Progress Association. The Diamond Creek Progress Association reserves the right to edit any articles supplied for any reason they see fit.
Design & Layout Peter Clarkson Ph: 0419 337 933 Accounts & Distribution Belinda Clarkson Ph: 0439 755 411 Advertising Oliver Thompson Ph: 0423 531 370
Apollo Parkways Arthurs Creek, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Eltham North, Greensborough Complex, Hurstbridge, Kangaroo Ground, Panton Hill, Plenty, St Andrews, St Helena, Smiths Gully, Yarrambat, Wattle Glen.
Email: devpress@optusnet.com.au Email: devpress@optusnet.com.au Email: oliver.thompson@live.com
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This issue Printed & Distributed on 13/12/2012 Deadline for next Edition 21st February 2013
The Diamond Creek Progress Association The Diamond Creek Progress Association has been around since the 1930s. Its main objective is to ensure improvement of the township of Diamond Creek and the advancement of the interests of ratepayers and residents. The Association meets Bi-Monthly at 7.30pm on the second Thursday at the Diamond Creek Scout Hall, 45 Challenger Street, Diamond Creek. Membership is available on application to any resident or ratepayer within the township of Diamond Creek, and those not within the township at the discretion of the Committee. Membership enquiries are welcome. Please contact the Peter Clarkson on 0419 337 933, or write to PO Box 38 DIAMOND CREEK VIC 3089.
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
R.S.L. DIAMOND CREEK - DOREEN SUB BRANCH NEWS Since the last article submitted to the Diamond Creek News, the Club has been involved in both the Legacy Appeal and the Poppy Appeal. I am pleased to announce that well over $4,000 was collected for Legacy Week which is a very good result given the number of volunteer collectors we had. With regard to the Poppy Appeal, I do not yet have the final figure but at this time believe it will be over $10,000. The Diamond Creek and Doreen communities were again very generous. On Sunday the 11th of November the Club conducted a Remembrance Day Service at the Diamond Creek War Memorial. This was very successful being supported by local dignitaries, school members, Police, CFA, Scouts and members of the local community. Whittlesea City Council has approved the Club’s plans for a War Memorial and the Club is currently obtaining quotes prior to seeking funds for this project. The Memorial is to be built on land adjacent to the Laurimar Primary School at the corner of Painted Hills Road and Armidale Road. It is hoped that this project will be completed by ANZAC Day 2013. However this will be dependent upon the
availability of funds but regardless the Club with the support of the Laurimar Primary School does plan to hold an ANZAC Service for the Doreen community similar to that held this year, as well as our usual ANZAC Day Service at the Diamond Creek War Memorial. On Tuesday 20th November I attended the 1st Birthday party of the First Doreen Scout group. For me, this was a great pleasure and it was good to see that the group is growing rapidly. I believe this is very important for the children of the Doreen community. On Thursday the 22nd of November it was my great pleasure, together with Mr Bill McKenna President of the Montmorency – Eltham RSL Sub Branch and in the presence of his sons Michael and Grant, to present the Club’s inaugural President Mr Des Vincent with his certificate and badge elevating him to Life Membership of RSL Australia. The award is recognition of his dedication and service both to the RSL and the community. Congratulations Des it is an honour duly merited.
Creek-Doreen RSL, but there is always room for new members. We would particularly like to see some new members from Doreen. We meet on the last Monday of the month at the Diamond Creek Bowling Club at 6.45 pm. Should you be interested in becoming a member please contact our Membership Officer and Vice-President, Mr. Rhys Thomas C/- Post Office Box 365, Diamond Creek, 3089 John Langford President - Diamond Creek-Doreen RSL Phone: 9438.6054. Email: langford_alpha@bigpond.com
The Diamond Creek-Doreen Sub Branch of the RSL though strong, and has a very active support group in The Friends of Diamond
A.D. Ryans
Bar & Restaurant Cnr Hyde & Main Street Diamond Creek
9438 4111
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Summer 2012
Open: Wednesday 4.00pm to late Thursday – Sunday’s 4.00pm – late Fantastic counter lunches for $15.00 or less on Thurs, Fri & Sat Award winning Pot’s N Parmas Wed & Thurs nights Brilliant local entertainment Friday & Saturday nights with lazy Sunday arvos. Bookings recommended No function to small or large to cater for.
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Diamond Creek East Pre-School What a busy few months we have enjoyed at DCE Preschool. The children in one of our four year old groups was visited by a bee keeper, who came dressed in her protective gear. She described to the children how it kept her safe from stings. We were able to see and smell the “smoker� that is used to stun/slow down the bees for easy collection of honey. We could see the intricate and amazing ability of bees in constructing their hive. We then learned how important bees are for our environment. In addition to this silkworms have been developing over the past few weeks and now that they are easily visible have provided children with opportunities to ask questions as well as make their own observations. Outdoors we have delighted children discovering snails, millipedes,
slaters and the odd centipede. Together we look at where they have been found- is it light or dark under the stump? Is the sand where you found all the snails? We encourage the children to make their own deductions from their observations. We recently celebrated Children's week with many fun activities. One of our four year old groups dressed in their finest Princess and Pirate costumes and prepared and baked delicious pizza. Our three year old group celebrated Children's week with a visit from the Drama Toolbox. We celebrated the Circus with costumes and music supplied by our presenter. We pranced and jumped like ponies around the ring. The pretend lions and tigers kept sneaking out of their cage because the ring master kept forgetting to lock their cage! We all cheered as the tight rope walkers balanced on the tight rope and
laughed as the children dressed as clowns entertained us and those naughty elephants sprayed us with water. It was wonderful to watch as the children laughed and smiled as they waited to take the floor to perform. This dramatic play is a great opportunity for the children to use their imagination and express themselves.
Support your local Community Paper! The Diamond Creek News needs new advertisers. Contact Oliver Thompson on 0423 531 370 for more info
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
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Diamond Creek News
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
Danielle Green MP - State Member for Yan Yean
Time To Prepare For The Fire Season Thanks to the rain we’ve had over the last couple of years, experts are predicting a higher risk of bushfire this year. It is vital that locals keep their fire plan up to date. As with previous years, on code red days, leaving early is the only safe way to survive a bushfire. As part of your written fire plan you should arrange in advance with friends or family a place you can stay in event of an emergency. We live in one of the most fire prone regions in the world and sadly we know better than most the damage bushfire can do, so it is important we take action in advance to reduce our risk.
The CFA are conducting local community meetings to raise people's awareness and to work with residents to turn awareness into action. For more information please go to https://www.communityprograms.cfa.vic.gov.a u/cfa/landing/default.htm. Alternatively either phone the CFA District Headquarters on (03) 8746 1400 or Diamond Creek CFA on (03) 9438 1457. Ride To Conquer Cancer I recently joined forces with AD Ryans in Diamond Creek to raise money to fight cancer for Victoria’s Ride To Conquer Cancer. I would like to thank everyone who came along to the fundraiser in support of Peter Mac. In total I was able to raise over $700. Special congratulations must go to local team Pippa’s Peddlers with team captain Pippa McGeachie-Parker who raised over $7,300. Next year they have set an ambitious target of $27,000 to help fund breakthrough cancer research, treatment and the discovery of new therapies at Peter Mac. If you wish to support Pippa’s Peddlers please log onto www.conquercancer.org.au. Walk To Work Day As part of the national ‘Walk to Work Day’, I walked to work from my home in Doreen to my office in Diamond Creek along Yan Yean Road to highlight the need for this road to be upgraded. As anyone will testify this road is a nightmare for car users at peak hour, and a no-
Summer 2012
go zone for pedestrians due to lack of footpaths. On my walk, aside from the lack of footpaths, I also spotted numerous examples of litter, broken manholes, storm water drains not clearly marked, drainage problems and unkempt grass verges. I also spoke to residents en route who tell me how severe problems are becoming getting into and out of their properties due to heavy traffic.
I have written to both Whittlesea and Nillumbik Councils and VicRoads asking them to work together to fix the problems on this road. However this would still require major funding from the Baillieu Government which has so far completely ignored our area for infrastructure improvements. On a positive note, I understand that developer monies from Whittlesea will allow Nillumbik Council to fund some minor upgrades between Bridge Inn Road and Kurrak Road soon. Breastscreen Victoria I had the pleasure of attending Breastscreen Victoria’s annual event to promote free breastscreening services in Victoria. The take-up rate in our local area by women in the target age group of 50-69 increased slightly to 54% (from 51%). However this is still slightly below the Victoria average of 55% and well below the target rate of 70%. Given the Baillieu Government cuts to women’s health, I fear that monies won’t be available to adequately promote the services of Breastscreen Victoria in future years, particularly among some critical demographic groups of women, whose take-up is below average. The facts are stark. 75% of women diagnosed with cancer are aged over 50. This is the reason why BreastScreen Victoria invites women aged 50-69, who do not have breast symptoms or changes, to have a FREE screening mammogram every two years. Regular screening is the best way to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms are noticed, and when treatment is likely to be most successful. A high participation rate among women aged 50-69 years is necessary to achieve substantial re-
Diamond Creek News
ductions in mortality from breast cancer across the Victorian community. No doctor’s referral is needed. To make an appointment ring 13 20 50 or book online at www.breastscreen.org.au. The local screening centre is located at 25 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough. Alternatively if you are visiting the city you can visit The Rose Clinic which is located inside the David Jones women’s store. Congratulations to Recently Elected Nillumbik Councillors Congratulations to all those who were elected to Nillumbik Council in the recent elections! I was pleased to see that most of the successful candidates pledged ongoing support for the retention of our amazing green wedge. I look forward to continuing to work positively with Council over the upcoming few years. In addition, I would like to also congratulate Diamond Creek’s own Cr Peter Perkins who was recently elected Mayor. He follows Cr Michael Young and Cr Helen Coleman, who both served with great distinction as Mayor of Nillumbik in recent years. Congratulations also to both Cr Young and Cr Coleman who are now Nillumbik’s longest serving Councillors. And Finally… I would like to wish everyone a safe and relaxing break over the Christmas and New Year period! Here’s to 2013! Danielle Green MP State Member for Yan Yean Electorate Office: Suite 3, 14 Yan Yean Road, Diamond Creek, 3089 PO Box 376, Diamond Creek, 3089 Ph: 03 9432-9782 Fax: 03 9432-9793 E: danielle.green@parliament.vic.gov.au www.daniellegreen.org.au www.facebook.com/daniellegreenmp twitter.com/DanielleGreenMP
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Christmas is just around the corner, so sit back and relax, let us do the cooking for you. ORDER NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. All orders placed for Christmas Day must be Pick-up before 12 noon.
Chickens Turkeys, Salads (Christmas Only)
Conditions Apply - Xmas Day Only No Senior Discount, No Deals Chickens served cold. No Cutting
Mr Rooster and staff would like to thank the community for their kind support throughout this year, we wish everyone a happy and safe 2013 Page 10
Diamond Creek News
naturally tasty naturally tasty naturally tasty naturally tasty
ual d i div and n i for asion p you r el ty ate occ c h y o r als or an sed to xt pa e W ers f plea r ne ord ill be r you fo w we pare pre
Summer 2012
Diamond Creek Men’s Shed has arrived!! “Working Shoulder to Shoulder, Contributing to our Community”
Our newly formed Association has made great progress since its inaugural meeting in November 2011. We haven’t looked back since the initial response. We have out grown our current shed at Diamond Valley Baptist Church and now Nillumbik Shire Council has offered us the former guide hall in Challenger Street, Diamond Creek. Our challenge is to rejuvenate the hall and turn it into our new home. We plan to move-in during late November with an official opening in Feb/ Mar next year. We will be fitting out the building with a passive recreation area and a workshop. These improvements will suit those that
mond Creek Men’s Shed Association is an independently formed and run group. It is founded on the principles of the Australian Men’s Shed Association which represents the Men’s Shed movement nationally. A key focus of the Men’s Shed movement is men’s well being. The National Association operates in all states of Australia and is rapidly growing; 860 plus sheds are currently operating. Sheds are also operational in Ireland, Scotland, enjoyed interesting speakers and had lots of fun on outings together. We had a busy time at the recent Rotary Town Fair and won the price for the best overall float in the procession. It gave our members a real boost to receive such recognition from the judges. Our Aims: • Building friendships and having fun as we work together • Contributing to the wider community • Promoting and encouraging healthy living for men
wish to be “hands on” and those that are seeking to meet in an informal atmosphere with other like minded men. You don’t need to be a “tradie” to join; we have members from many interesting backgrounds. You may be interested to know that Dia-
Summer 2012
England and New Zealand. We have been busy with a number of projects for several Pre-Schools, Parks Victoria, Nillumbik Historical Society, an Aged care Facility etc. Our Members have also
Diamond Creek News
Visitors are always welcome or simply give us a call and have a chat. We’re always looking for new members - that might be you. Gary Burke – Secretary
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Vanillaz Hair Studio
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9th August 13th September 8th November 6th December
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Shop 1 18 Chute Street, Diamond Creek
$6 admission
9438 2244
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now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Page 12
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
DIAMOND CREEK EAST PRIMARY SCHOOL 2012 is nearly over and what a year it has been! With the countdown now on to Christmas and the end of the school year, it’s time to reflect on the year we have had at Diamond Creek East Primary School. We’d like to start off by congratulating our graduating grade 6 class, who will say goodbye to primary school in a few short weeks and begin their secondary school journey next year. We are so proud of everything you have achieved during your time at Diamond Creek East, and we hope you come back and visit us next year! Our Grade 6 Graduation is always a special night for our grade 6 students, their families and teachers, and for the first time this year it will be held in the Bendigo Bank Community Stadium on Tuesday, December 18. We have had much to celebrate recently at Diamond Creek East Primary School. Our grade 6 girls’ volleyball team has reached the State Final, which will be held on Friday November 30. By the time you are reading this, we will already know the result! We are very proud of the girls and their superstar coach Mr Michael Evans on this terrific achievement. Go DCE! Not long ago, our grade 3 and 4 students returned from a fun-filled 3 days at Camp Manyung in Mt. Eliza. For the grade 3s, it was their first school camping experience...and what a great time we all had! The 3 days were sunny and warm and students spent time on the giant swing, the flying fox, learning archery, snorkelling, swimming and exploring rock pools at the
beach. We are very proud of our ‘DCE Live’ program, which has been in its inaugural year this year, involving our Grade 5 and 6 students and DCEP’S Assistant Principal Mrs Marg Chapman. ‘DCE Live’ is a television show that is broadcast live to the entire school and viewed in each classroom via the interactive whiteboards every Wednesday during lunch eating time between 1:30pm and 1:45pm. Regular items include: the weather, birthdays of the week, sports reports, Feeling Fabulous advertisements, reports on excursions and school activities, live interviews, musical performances, and a segment called ‘How well do you know DCE?’. The students are involved in planning, writing, rehearsing, performing and producing the program. The program has been a great showcase this year for the terrific, hard working and talented students we have at DCE and we look forward to watching it again every week next year. Stay tuned for ‘DCE’s Got Talent’!
Our school yard is looking tidier than ever, thanks to the hard work of our Junior School Council (pictured above) and some very lively student performances during assembly (featuring a character called Rubbish Man!). These performances encourage the students to keep the yard clean, and earn points for their school
Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
‘house’ team at the same time! Rubbish Man’s message must be getting through to the students because the school yard looks great! Coming up at DCE, is our Christmas dress up day and end of year celebrations! There’s always something interesting happening at DCE,and still time left in 2012 to see our school in action. Please contact our helpful office staff on 9438-1413 if you would like to book a time for a school tour. From all of us here at Diamond Creek East Primary School, we would like to wish you
and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. See you in 2013! Kassie Papuga
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Meet Santa, face painting, miniature train ride, caricature ... all free FREE Tommy the Trackless Train Thursday 20th , Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd 1Oam-3pm Jump on board Tommy the Trackless Tra in who will be taking children on free r ides around Diamond Creek Shop ping Station.
Roaming Santa* Wedn esday 19th - Monday 24th December (excluding Sunday 23rd December) 10am-2pm Look out for Santa and his elves looking for nice [not naughty) children.
FREE Diamond Creek Community Carols
FREE Christmas Caricature Thursday 20t h Decem ber Diamond Creek Plaza, 11 am-1pm
Fr iday 21 st December Between Deganis and The Vines Cafe 11 am- 2pm What better way to captu re Christmas than with a caricature. Br ing your l ittle ones down to Diamond Creek at the locations above and have a caricature done for free.
Sunday, 16th December Coventry Oval 6pm-10pm Sta r ti ng at 6pm be entertained with roving performe rs and children's activities. At 8 pm the community carols will commence.
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
DIAMOND CREEK PRIMARY SCHOOL Well it is certainly hard to believe that yet another year has almost gone by. The dedicated staff, and students in their care have had an action packed year with so many achievements and great things happening within our school. We have new iPads and other fantastic electronic equipment which assists and enhances the children’s learning. Our senior school children have enjoyed participating in the Summer School Interschool Sports on a Friday. Our participation in the Diamond Creek Town Fair highlighted our clubs; these are just a few of the many activities and creative learning opportunities offered to our students. The new post pads added to the courtyard shade sail posts were kindly donated by Rotary and have been a great addition to our school ground making it much safer for all concerned. Thank you to the Rotary Club for their hard work providing this for our school. We have been fortunate enough to have the historic brick pathway fully completed at the entrance to our school. Many past pupils, families and staff members were keen to purchase their commemorative pavers.
Our programs at Diamond Creek Primary School continue to flourish. The Visual Arts program run by Mrs. Isabelle Mignuoli now has great new display cases in the school foyer which showcase the students’ outstanding work. The School Band has been performing at different events at school and has been lead by Mrs. Dickinson. Kirsten Dickinson has been a part of our school for many years. She has decided to leave her working life behind and pursue travel instead. We wish Mrs. Dickinson all the very best in her new ventures and thank her for all she has offered us as a community over the years as a classroom teacher, Reading Recovery Teacher and Performing Arts Teacher. Good luck Mrs. Dickinson and thank you. Our swimming program is currently being enjoyed by all of our students. It is fabulous to think that we are entering into the summer months and all of our children are being given some water safety tips and shown how to keep themselves safe around water.
of their buddy. The extensive transition sessions have been a marvellous way for the new families and their children to experience what life at Diamond Creek Primary School is like. I must say that the new Preps all look so keen and eager to start school. I overheard one new Prep say “I wish that Christmas would hurry up so I can go to proper school.” This enthusiasm is sure to continue until Grade Six! We would like to thank all the local businesses who have supported our school during 2012. We wish you all a happy and safe holiday and look forward to a prosperous 2013. If you would like a tour of our school or to know anything else about our school please contact our Principal Mrs. Helen Micallef 9438 1108.
Our new Preps for 2013 have met their Year 6 buddies and made some great posters to take home with a drawing
now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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DIAMOND CREEK FIRE BRIGADE Bush fire training for our members has commenced for the upcoming fire season. This is a summary of Incidents the brigade has attended between June and November. The Brigade attended a total of 58 calls as summarised below: False Alarms and False Calls 16 Fire and Explosions 17 Hazardous Condition 12 MVA, Rescue, EMS Calls 12 Service Calls 1 The biggest of these jobs was the fire in the Hurstbridge Hardware Store in June where significant damage was sustained to the structure and contents, and a fully involved house fire in St. Helena. The brigade has also attended a number of burn-offs that were out of control. Please note that Fire restrictions come into force in the Shire of Nillimbik on 10th December. Membership New members Mick Brown, Howard JeffreyWright and Ashley Joy continue their development and training within the brigade, having completed their minimum-skills training and pushing on with structure fire related skills. Ex-Captain to Mayor The brigade would like to congratulate ExCaptain Peter Perkins for recently being elected Mayor of Nillumbik Shire Council. Service Awards The brigade held its Annual Presentation Night in August. Annual Awards were presented to:
We have 3 members who have just completed wild fire crew leaders just in time for the upcoming fire season Anthony Rogers, Ross Kummer and Brett Skiffington Moretti. Diamond Creek is now training for the Urban State Championship which will be held at Warrnambool in March 2013 which includes Marching/Discipline Squad, and Hose Running Competition. New Equipment Acquisitions The brigade recently purchased the following equipment. The purchase of these items, which enhance our ability to service Diamond Creek and to support our neighbouring brigades would not be possible without the generosity and support of the Diamond Creek Community through the Ritchie’s Community Benefit Card scheme. If you would like to support the Brigade via this excellent program, please contact the brigade via dcfb@tpg.com.au and we will have a card or key-ring tag delivered to you. Battery-powered LED Work Lights Protek Branches for black-out operations (reduced water usage) New Brigade A new fire brigade has been formed in our area - District 14 HQ Brigade East - with the task of supporting the Incident Control activities that occur in the Kangaroo Ground Incident Control Centre. This new brigade was
formed using existing members from other brigades in the area (dual membership) as well as members that are completely new to CFA. The intent of this new brigade is to play a vital role in providing a large team of well trained and exercised volunteers needed to support the management of major incidents. It is encouraging to see how evenly applicants are spread across the Kangaroo Ground ICC footprint. One important reason for having this umbrella brigade is to ensure that personnel spread across different geographical locations, competencies and know each other from having trained and exercised together frequently in the past. Christmas Trees Diamond Creek Fire Brigade will again be selling Christmas trees through the first three weeks of December. The brigade would like to thank the greater Diamond Creek community for their support of this valuable fund raising event. Facebook Diamond Creek Fire Brigade is now on Facebook. You can now like us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ Photos below are from CFA Sunday (25/11/2012) Left - Members of the community and Right - A future Fire Fighter test drives the pumper.
Ross Kummer - Fire-fighter of the Year Chris Droge - Most Valuable Member The Bury Family - Captain’s Award The recipients of Service Awards were: Jess Murphy 5 Year Service Lenny Pritchard 5 Year Service Peter Clarkson 10 Year Service Lubo Petrnousek 10 Year Service Charles Potter 10 Year Service William Pritchard 25 Year Service Darren Kirkbride 30 Year Service Bruce Holland 50 Year Service The Brigade congratulates and thanks these members for their years of dedication to the Diamond Creek Community. Training Activities
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
Thank You! I would like to thank my constituents for your support over the last four years. I have enjoyed working with you despite the apparently false allegations made against me by sections of the Victorian government. I would also like to thank the Nillumbik Ratepayers Association, for commissioning the two, independent, CFA endorsed, Bushfire Assessments in 2003. Those two Assessments, “Bushfire Threat to Nillumbik Shire” by David Packham, and “Fire Hazard and Vegetation Controls in the Shire of Nillumbik” by Rod Incoll, warned the Victorian government that a Black Saturday bushfire was coming. I believe most of the lives lost on Black Saturday, would have been prevented, if the Victorian government had acted on the expert advice of the CFA endorsed Packham and In-
coll Assessments. Indeed, the first book published about Black Saturday was “Inferno”. That book stated “…the threat of catastrophic fire was dismissed with what now seems a culpable disregard for life and safety”. The word culpable means “deserving of blame or censure”. My heart goes out to the families affected by Black Saturday, and I wish those of you who are still struggling with the consequences, all the best. Almost ten years after the CFA endorsed Packham and Incoll Assessments were personally delivered to a Victorian government formal Hearing, they are even more relevant now, because bushfire fuel loads have increased since Black Saturday. Unfortunately the full consequences of Black Saturday will only be determined after the court cases about damages are settled next year. The cost for all of us taxpayers is
expected to be well over one thousand million dollars. Hopefully the Victorian government and the generally unquestioning media will then accept expert advice, that it is cheaper to reduce landscape fuel loads in the vicinity of towns and suburbs, than leaving those fuel loads at levels where people cannot escape an extreme bushfire. Belinda Clarkson. Former Blue Lake ward Councillor 2008 - 2012
now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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year winning the Victorian Championships, with Leah going on to win the Victorian Championships on Beam and placing 3rd on Floor. The Level 4 Girls (Chloe Manuel, Emily Saunders, Imogen Richards, Romy Gardam & Georgia Siderov) just capped off a wonderful competition season being crowned National Champions on Floor, 3rd on Beam and 5th Overall in all of Australia, earlier in the month Romy Gardam was crowned Victorian Champion on Floor and Georgia Siderov placed 2nd on Floor in Victoria and the Team placed 3rd in Victoria.
Jets Gymnastics has just completed its first year in the new Community Bank Stadium and wow what a year it has been. The stadium has been widely acknowledged as the best gymnastics centre in all of Australia, ahead of both the Australian & Victorian Institute of Sport - right here in Diamond Creek, quite unbelievable !!! The venue was given a big stamp of approval as it hosted 3 major competitions early in 2012 including the Elite Victorian Championships which had many of the girls who trialled to make the Olympic Team competing at the venue and VIP's including the National Coach. The centre also welcomed back many of the people who helped establish the foundations of the Community bank Stadium including Bo Bendtsen, Janice Crosthwhite, Malcolm Hackett, Barry Henwood and Belinda Clarkson - we were very lucky to have such wonderful support at our Club. Jets Diamond Creek has had some significant performances by our gymnasts in 2012, notably Isis Lowery was selected to compete for Australia in an International Competition against Japan. Isis finished 9th at Australian Championships in July and just last week was crowned the National Clubs Champion on Vault where she also finished 3rd Overall. Isis is the first ever Senior International Gymnast from the shire to remain training in the shire and represent Australia, she is an in-
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In May Jets had 4 girls selected to represent Victoria at National Championships (Isis Lowery, Brianne Allen, Teliah Farren-Price and Emily Dean) this was a fabulous effort from the girls and due reward for their hours of hard work in training. Brianne was also crowned Victorian Champion on Bars and just recently placed 2nd in Australia on Balance Beam at the National Clubs Competition held in Geelong.
spiration to many of the young gymnasts at Jets and is set for bigger and better things in 2013 with World Championships firmly on the radar.
We are very proud of the girls achievements and the wonderful sportsmanship which they have showed throughout the year. Jets has a fabulous training environment which encourages each and every gymnast to be their very best and at the same time learn to be a great team-mate, friend, role model and importantly enjoy the wonderful challenges the sport presents each and every training session. We welcome gymnasts from ages 3 and up and have programs to suit every level from beginner to Olympic Level. Call Jets Diamond Creek on 9438 8940 to book a Free Try out class today.
The State Level 8 Team consisting of Paige Goodwin, Leah Stangherlein, Brittany Green and Darcy Moore also had a huge
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
2013 COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
HAVE YOUR SAY ON CAR PARKING
POLICY AND SERVICES COMMITTEE AND PLANNING COMMITTEE
ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETINGS
12 February 2013
26 February 2013
12 March 2013
26 March 2013
16 April 2013
30 April 2013
14 May 2013
28 May 2013
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13 August 2013
27 August 2013
10 September 2013
24 September 2013
15 October 2013
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12 November 2013
6 November 2013*
Council has prepared draft car parking strategies for the Shire’s major activity centres – Eltham and Diamond Creek.
10 December 2013
26 November 2013
The draft strategies consider current and future car parking needs within both centres and provide recommendations for best practice parking management. This work supports Council’s commitment to promoting economic development, improving the amenity and functionality of our major activity centres and encouraging sustainable transport.
*(Wed) 2013 Special meeting to elect the Mayor
View both strategies at www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au.
17 December 2013
Meetings will occur on Tuesday nights throughout the \HDU XQOHVV RWKHUZLVH VSHFL¿HG 7KH 3ROLF\ DQG 6HUYLFHV Committee meetings start at 7pm followed by the Planning Committee meetings at approximately 8pm. Ordinary Council 0HHWLQJV VWDUW DW SP 8QOHVV RWKHUZLVH VSHFL¿HG PHHWLQJV are held at the Civic Centre, Civic Drive, Greensborough. For further information visit Council’s website.
Make a submission Write to: Alison Fowler Senior Strategic Planner Nillumbik Shire Council PO Box 476 Greensborough VIC 3088 Email: nillumbik@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
COME AND MAKE A SPLASH!
Extended deadline: submissions on either strategy close 5pm 1 February 2013.
Keep the kids cool over the summer holidays at the Diamond Creek Outdoor Pool. The outdoor heated pool complex features a 25 metre shaded pool and separate toddlers play pooll with shade structure.
Hurstbridge TWILGHT
ool offer Diamond Creek Outdoor Pool swimming lessons, birthday parties and hiring options.
Farmers’ Market
Swimming lessons are run after school on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on Saturday morning for children aged 3-5 years old, 5-15 years old and adults.
Get your quality, fresh and seasonal produce from local producers!
Diamond Creek Outdoor Pool is located at 1 Elizabeth Street, Diamond Creek and is open:
Sunday 23 December 2012 3pm-8pm Fergusons Paddock, Hurstbridge-Arthurs Creek Road, Hurstbridge
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www.hurstbridgefarmersmarket.com.au
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www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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Diamond Creek Primary School Walking School Bus. Even our toddlers and preschoolers join us for a walk on the Walking School Bus. It is a great way to socialise the young preschoolers who feel such a part of our Walking School Bus Community. This has also become an unofficial prep orientation activity as in December each year we allow our next year’s preps to walk with us in their uniform and we give them a special ticket
and show bag to welcome them to the Walking School Bus. The culture of exercise being a great way to start the day has been firmly entrenched in our Walking School Bus traveller’s way of life. The children just get a real buzz out of waiting for the Bus and walking all together. It has been a great way to meet children from different grade levels and also for parents to
meet up and have a casual chat while walking to school as a group. Congratulations to Matthew who walked 1173 walks with the walking School Bus. We will have your star photo in the next addition Matthew! Thank you to for volunteering to walk with the Walking School Bus. We love having community members walk with us on the Walking School Bus. Our school program is continuing to grow and we are proud of all of our participants – keep up the great walking champions!
now online www.diamondcreeknews.com
Diamond Creek Primary School Human Powered Vehicle - 2012 In November each year at least 200 schools meet to compete in the RACV Human Powered Vehicle Challenge in Maryborough Country Victoria. The whole of the town is abuzz with this marvellous opportunity to present the best there is in each of the competing schools. This challenge compromises of
several different elements. The team must be both girls and boys and they need to present reasons that they have been able to save the environment from the build up of green house gases and protect us all by using green energy. The team for 2012 were champions!! Well done to all of our team who happened to win for the second year in a row and who are also winners in the tenth anniversary year. Our enthusiastic team of teachers continue to support the students who represent our school at Maryborough. A great deal of community effort goes in to the
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Diamond Creek News
Human Powered Vehicle Challenge with families and children needing to give a commitment for at least 30 weeks in the year to train and achieve excellence. Thanks goes to Ian Hartwig and Michelle Chubb who are such dedicated past parents who continue to travel up and offer vehicle support, training and catering to the current Human Powered Vehicle team even though their children left Diamond Creek Primary School at least 3 years ago. Well done to this year’s team you are champions! Two years in a row and on the 10th anniversary we salute you!
Summer 2012
The Diamond Creek Town Fair The Diamond Creek Rotary Town Fair was held on Saturday 24th November and was yet again a resounding success. Unfortunately the extremely hot weather did keep some people away but those who attended had a great time! This year’s theme was Life in the Green Wedge and one of the new activities was the Enchanted Forrest which was a place of
Summer 2012
magic and wonder for all who visited it. Charming fairies captivated the visitors with stories and activities. This year the Grand Parade through Main Street was the largest ever with many participants from schools, kindergartens, community organisations and local businesses. Congratulations to the Diamond Creek Men’s Shed for winning the best
Diamond Creek News
entrant in the parade. Whilst the heat may have kept the crowds at home in the afternoon, the warm evening certainly brought them out for the CFA’s torchlight parade and the fantastic fireworks display accompanied by music. The Rotary Club of Diamond Creek would like to thank all of the local organisations who participated in the Town Fair and we look forward to seeing everyone back again next year!
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Scouting Around Diamond Creek 1st Diamond Creek Wakoola Scout Troop The past couple of months has been extremely busy with almost half of the Troop preparing for AJ 2013,(Australian Jamboree), being held in Maryborough, QLD, in January. In October, 38 out of 40 Scouts attended Mafeking Scout Park out of Yea for the annual EDAC camp. 200 Scouts from around the district were there enjoying the activities and fun. We camped with Lower Plenty as another opportunity to get to know their Scouts before we all head off to Jamboree. The theme was based around the 100th anniversary of Mawson's trek to the South Pole. A fortnight later, the Jamboree Scouts attended a Pre-Jamboree Camp at Noonameena, at Kyneton. Here we joined Lower Plenty again, and also had our fellow Jamboree Scouts from 1st Maiden Gully (out of Bendigo). Patrols were mixed up and constantly rotating, allowing all of the Scouts to get to know each other. All 6 patrol leaders were chosen from Diamond Creek, which is impressive and shows the leadership qualities our Scouts possess. The Troop have also enjoyed nights with a Halloween Theme, a Karate Theme, and also a visit by the Diamond Valley Women’s' Football League. We have also had an evening Barefoot Bowling at Diamond Creek Bowling Club, where we welcomed Laurel into the pack. 1st Diamond Creek Wolf Cubs Like the rest of the Group, the Cub pack has enjoyed many varied activities in the last couple of months, sharing their Halloween Disco with the Joey Scouts and the Venturers, and also participated in a joint Karate night with the Scouts. The Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts and Venturers all enjoyed dressing up in their scariest costumes ever.
The Cub Scouts have also spent weeks on their Scouting skills, with Knotting, First Aid and Hygiene, and Navigation on a bike ride from the Scout Hall. The pack will complete their year with a swimming night and hope to invest 2 new members to the pack. 1st Diamond Creek Joey Scout Mob The Joey Scouts have enjoyed being out of the hall this term, with a visit up to GMAC in Yarrambat, and also a walk to the Wetlands in Eltham North. ‘Kookaburra’ (Helen) was explaining each of the native plants as we walked along, and we were pleased to see that there was actually water in the wetlands this time, so we saw wildlife too - a duck, her duckling, and some frogs and fish. We will also welcome Paige to the Mob when we invest her at the Diamond Creek Town Fair. We celebrate our 19th birthday this week, with a walk through Diamond Creek, ending up at the Coventry Oval for a Teddy Bear's picnic. We have also participated at Mc Happy Day, where we had 2 new friends join the mob. Sadly, we must say goodbye to Kookaburra Helen, who is headed interstate to take up a new work role. 1st Diamond Creek Scout Group Committee and Leaders The adults of the group have been just as busy as the others! We have been represented at Pet Expo, Mc Happy Day and also at the Remembrance Day service held at Diamond Creek in the last few weeks alone. Our small but determined Committee has embraced a year of Jamboree fundraising and also have purchased a couple of new tents for the group to use.
The whole group sends everyone Seasons Greetings and wishes for a safe and happy break, and thanks each and every person and organisation that has been helped Scouting locally in the last 12 months. And also, as always, if there are any boys and girls, aged between 5.5 and 26 years of age, or any adults looking for a new challenge, either in a Leadership or Support role, please feel free to come and chat to us when you see us out and about in Diamond Creek, come and see us at the Scout Hall in Challenger St, or else give me a call on 0411 719 812. Yours in Scouting Natarsha Jacobs Joey Scout Leader & Leader in Charge 1st Diamond Creek Scout Group
The leaders have had support from the committee to continue with their training modules and program each week, which is vital to make sure that each and every one of us is having fun Scouting.
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
DIAMOND CREEK FOOTBALL CLUB Celebrating 125 years - 1888 - 2013 Players and coaches come and go but one football icon has remained the same. Next year the Diamond Creek Football Club will celebrate its 125th year. In order to commemorate the occasion former committee members, coaches, players and supporters will be invited to join in the celebration at a gala event which is not to be missed on Friday, April 26th. 2013 at Ivanhoe Town Hall.
History Diamond Creek can boast a long, illustrious history which has seen us enjoy premiership success, in four distinct eras, in several different competitions. Formed in 1888 the club competed in the Whittlesea
District Football Association without winning any premierships. In 1906 the club was a founding member of the Bourke Evelyn Football League. The change of stamping ground obviously did the side good as it promptly claimed the inaugural BEFL flag followed by a second place finish in 1907 and another premiership in 1908. This was effectively the first of Diamond Creek's four eras of success. The second such era occurred during the 1920s. In 1922 Diamond Creek was one of seven foundation members of the Diamond Valley Football League. The club was a force in this new league from the outset, and went to take out the premierships in both 1924 and 1926. There then followed more than half
a century of predominantly mediocre showings which were finally brought to an end by the club's first, and to date only, back to back premiership triumphs in 1981 and 1982. The 1981 season had seen the DVFL split into two divisions, with both of the Demons' successes coming in the top flight. However, the last of the club's four eras of success involved a trio of second division flags, in 1992, 1998 and 2005.
Premierships Bourke Evelyn Football League 1906, 1908 Diamond Valley Football League 1924,1926,1981,1982,1992,1998,2005
If you have any information, photos or memorabilia that you would be willing to share or for any further information on the event please contact either, Glenn 'Mushy" Walle: 0438 024361, Caliem O'Connor: 0408 090 378 Brian Harvey: 0414 235 302 or Club Historian -Gary "Tarax" Marchant: 0413 458 516
Be a part of history in 2013 and help celebrate 125 years of the Diamond Creek Football Club
Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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UNITING CHURCH IN DIAMOND CREEK AND HURSTBRIDGE
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Combined carols service at the Diamond Creek church at 10.30am, Sunday 16 December (preceded by morning tea at 10.00 am). Christmas Day Services Tuesday 25 December 9.00 AM at Hurstbridge 10.00 am at Diamond Creek Community Christmas Day Lunch Once again there will be our Community Christmas Day Lunch in Diamond Creek. Last year, at our sixth Christmas Lunch, we had 105 people sit down together to a lovely, festive meal in warm and welcoming company.
When: Christmas Day, Tuesday 25 December, 2012 at 12.00 noon. Where: Diamond Creek Uniting Church, Main Hurstbridge Road, cnr Wensley Street, opposite the Emergency Services Centre. Who: These days, for all sorts of reasons, many of us find ourselves at a bit of a loose end on Christmas Day. Everyone is most welcome to join us for a friendly Christmas meal. There is no charge. How: Transport readily available to and from the lunch if required. Give us a call to have a chat about maybe
coming or to say "yes". Diane 9718 2035 Community use of church buildings Our centrally-located suites of buildings have a variety of venues available for hire, both at Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge. For Diamond Creek – contact Barrie Cole 9431 1740 For Hurstbridge – contact Robert Joynt 9438 4107 For further information about the Uniting Church in Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge, please contact Rev Loni Vaitohi on 9438 1107. Also please see our informative website www.diamondvalley.unitingchurch.org.au
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Phone: 9438 1970 Mobile: 0419 354 858 Page 24
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
texture to set a scene and create lively characters. Each one is different, and each picture tells a story. I feel I have learned a little about each of you. Best of all, it looks like you had as much fun with plasticine as I do!
WGPS Turns 90!!!!
Artists learn from other artists, and I know you will inspire me as I work on future projects. Thank you for connecting through books and artwork from one side of the wold to another.
Tuesday December 18 from 7.00pm
Best wishes and happy reading,
It is now November and the countdown has begun! This night will include our graduation ceremony, the school end of year class performances and the special cutting of Wattle Glen Primary School’s 90th birthday cake!
Barbara Reid 2012 Graduates Congratulations to our 2012 Graduates, Isabelle, Alexandra, Nathan, Leif, Dane, Matthew, Blake and Adam. You have been wonderful students and we wish you all the best for the future at secondary school.
Please feel free to invite past students and parents to the event so that they too can celebrate! Portsea Camp 2012 Year 4, 5 and 6 students attended the 3 day camp to Portsea and came back with wonderful memories! Thanks to Andrew Buller and Jess Johnston for their valuable time! ART @ WGPS As part of a Modelling unit in Art, grade 1 / 2
so impressed with the art that I sent a letter and a picture of the children’s work to Barbara Reid herself and got a wonderful response; Dear Barbara, I am a primary school Art teacher at Wattle Glen Primary, Melbourne, Australia. My grade 1 and 2 students (6-8years old) completed a unit of work inspired by your amazing books. We also loved watching your 'how to' instructions on youtube. The students and I wanted to share their work with you so I have attached a photo. Thank you for the inspiration!! Cheers Eliza Venosta Art Teacher Wattle Glen Primary School This is Barbaras response;
students created plasticine pictures (now on display in the foyer) inspired by well-known American children’s author/ illustrator Barbara Reid. The children’s work is amazing!! I was
THANK YOU STAFF A huge thank you to all the staff of WGPS on an outstanding year. Your efforts and support have been greatly appreciated! From implementing quality programs, to helping at fundraising activities and participating in professional development courses – you are an amazing team! Thank you Allison Birkett, Simone Natoli, Keren Wakefield, Jessica Johnston, Tracey Fay, Elizabeth Murray, Debra Anderson, Natalie Tyrrell, Donna Seivers, Petra Cox, Joy Turner, Tracie Shallard, Dani Syzmanski, Anita Da Silva, Anna Volodina, Eliza Venosta, Kerryn Pilkington, Kerry Buller and Angie and Joe Robassa. Looking forward to a prosperous 2013! Merry Christmas and Have a Safe Holiday everyone!!!! 2013 - Mark this date in your calendar – Sunday March 24, Wattle Glen Family Fun Day
Hello Eliza and your talented students! Thank you very much for sharing this beautiful artwork. I love to hear from readers, but it is even more exciting to learn about fellow plasticine artists. You have all done an excellent job in designing your picture and using colour, shapes and
If you would like a personalised tour of the school, please contact Gerard on 9438 1259. For more information, please visit us at - http://www.wattlegps.vic.edu.au/
SMALL SCHOOL ………. BIG OPPORTUNITIES!! now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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COMPLETE OFFICE ASSISTANT COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH If you are at a loose end or just plain lonely on Christmas Day then please join us at the
Uniting Church Hall Cnr Hurstbridge Rd and Wensley Street, Diamond Creek 12 Noon on Christmas Day No Charge Transport available if needed Relaxed and friendly atmosphere Everyone welcome If you would like to chat about coming, or simply to say
“yes” then call Diane on 9718 2035 or Loni on 9438 1107
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SANDRA SHELL 0417 525 696 NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH YOUR BAS/TAX LODGEMENTS? ATTENTION ALL TRADIES & SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS IN THE DIAMOND CREEK/ELTHAM AREA WE HAVE THE SOLUTION FOR YOU • COMPLETE BOOKKEEPING SERVICE - INCLUDES PAYMENT OF YOUR ACCOUNTS IF REQUIRED OUR OFFICE OR YOURS • COMPETITIVE RATES – NO EXTRA COSTS INVOLVED • AUSTRALIAN TAXATION OFFICE REGISTERED & QUALIFIED • ALL WORK GUARANTEED • WE LIAISE WITH YOUR ACCOUNTANT AT ALL TIMES • ORGANISATION AND RETENTION OF YOUR RECORDS IF REQUIRED
CONTACT SANDRA FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
SACRED HEART PRIMARY SCHOOL Mural to celebrate 50 years On Sunday 18th November, 2012 Sacred Heart School celebrated its 50th Anniversary with an Open Day. The school was open to all past and present members of the Parish and School community to view memorabilia and to see the expansion and improvements to the school over the years. To commemorate this special occasion the school commissioned artist Russell Danby from ‘Muralmaker’ to paint a mural on the rebound wall depicting what our students thought were the strengths of Sacred Heart Diamond Creek. Towards the end of Octo-
ber, Russell outlined the artwork and spent a day painting the top section that was too high for the children to reach. A number of school children, who had submitted designs, were chosen to work with Russell helping to finish the mural. At the planning stage, staff and students had the opportunity to have some input as to the final product. A draft watercolor of what the finished product would look like was provided and after some adjustments to the plan it was time to paint the final product. As part of the design, a large eucalyptus tree was placed on each side of the mural so that we could attach ceramic leaves on the trees.
On the celebration day, past and present school families were given the opportunity to go into the Visual Art room to glaze and add their family name to a ceramic gum leaf to be attached on the mural. It was a wonderful opportunity for past and present members of the school and parish community to permanently record their name in Sacred Heart’s history. The mural was officially unveiled on the 50th Birthday Celebration Day on Sunday 18th November. Thank you to our enthusiastic Visual Art Teacher, Andrea Williams, who spent many hours planning and overseeing this project.
CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES Sacred Heart Parish Christmas Eve Children’s Mass - 6pm Diamond Creek Mass - 9.30pm Diamond Creek Christmas Day Mass - 8.30am Diamond Creek **No Midnight Mass
St Thomas Parish Greensborough Nth Christmas Eve Children's Mass - 7.30pm Christmas Day Mass - 10.30am **No Midnight Mass
Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
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1862 .......and all that What has 150 years done for the battlers?
The Gold Rushes of the early 1850’s had petered out. There were tens of thousands of ex-miners – mainly from Europe – who faced a parlous future. Economic and political events in Europe had wiped out any prospect of a prosperous and free life. Australia had land – thousands of hectares of it but it was locked up by the squatters who had capital and influence For a modest licence fee they could access and hold these vast areas of virgin land. For the diggers and other free settlers such areas were effectively out of bounds. Take Major Anthony Beale, late of the East India Company, whose regiment was charged with guarding Napoleon on St Helena in the south Atlantic Ocean. As a squatter, he controlled a station which stretched from Greensborough in the south to Kinglake in the north - a distance of about 40 Km. And his footprint is still seen today in the (Mel-
bourne) suburb of St Helena and Beale Avenue in Kinglake. Come the 1860’s and a more representative parliament was anxious to do something for the thousands of men, some with their families who had been locked out of access to the land. It fell to the Irishman, Charles Gavin Duffy to do this with his Duffy Land Act of 1862 which opened up tens of millions of acres for selection in parcels of from 40 to 640 acres. The land, held as freehold, was purchased on generous terms, but required the construction of a residence as well as other improvements. One of those districts which rejoiced in this far-sighted legislation is the area of Arthurs Creek, north east of Melbourne in the hills south of the Kinglake Ranges. On October 13th and 14th 2012 the community celebrated the opening up of this district to “closer settlement” 150 years ago under the Duffy Land Acts. And, no doubt, many other districts throughout Victoria are also celebrating. This legislation represented a victory for the common people to claim a part of their heritage as pioneers and adventurers. It also laid the foundation for the establishment of a more just and equitable economy in which the destitute and marginalised could share.
The irony is that under successive Victorian Governments, these farmer-settlers have found that their modest holdings have been frozen, allegedly in the interests of the urban areas which are said to require space and recreation. The fundamental problem with this is the land’s questionable viability to generate a liveable income in the present environment. For many older landholders a fair value for their land in fact represents their only “superannuation”. So why have recent Governments, in an unjust twist, chosen to turn the clock back and deny small landowners the right to a fair return on the capital value of their land? People with holdings near urban areas should be able to sub-divide them into 8 H. blocks to form an intermediate zone between the suburban and the rural, while still meeting expectations of a “green landscape.” Moreover there would be thousands of people in our cities who would value the chance to live on, and work a small hobby farm. Reported news of the current Government reviewing regulations about the size and development of our rural districts is indeed welcome. Let us see if they have the will to deliver. While justice delayed is justice denied, after 150 years it is indeed time that landholders can hope for a better deal. C. Malcolm Macmillan - Arthurs Creek.
DIAMOND CREEK OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC 27 BLACKGULLY ROAD, DIAMOND CREEK
SPORTS INJURIES, MUSCULAR, SKELETAL PROBLEMS, NECK & SHOULDER, STRESS AND HEADACHE ETC. TAC & WORKCOVER
For Appointment Phone 9438 1404 or 0412 403 293 now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Page 28
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
Local Girls Party for a Cause Diamond Creeks Girls Night In Friday 26 October was the night for over 180 local ladies to ‘party for a cause’ at the Diamond Creek Community Centre. With everyone dressed well and truly ‘in the pink’ those attending enjoyed some great music courtesy of local band Amanda & the Jets who volunteered their time to be involved and set the scene for a fun night. The ladies at Gigliola also put on a great fashion parade to showcase their new season’s range of mother / daughter ‘frocks’ suitable for all those festive parties ahead. Local support for the evening was once again overwhelming and the event committee would like to thank all those who so generously donated products as raffle and silent auction prizes. Just over $5100 was raised to be split between the Victorian Cancer
Council Girls Night In and our local cancer support network the 4C’s. Watch out for information about next year’s event early in 2013 and contact Living & Learning Nillumbik on 9433 3766 or via admindc@nillumbik.vic.gov.au if you are interested in being part of the event management team.
Gatherings Day venue - 2nd Tuesday of the month at St John’s Anglican Church Diamond Creek. The Church meeting room is opposite AD Ryans on Main Street. The group gather in the meeting room from 1-3pm. Please bring a small plate to share. A warm welcome is assured. Night venue - Degani’s Bakery Café Main Street Diamond Creek. Last Thursday of the month. From 7pm – about 9.30pm. We gather for tea in the private function room; new members welcome. If you would like to come and have a coffee with us feel free to join us a meal is not necessary. We do not meet again until February however, if you wish to contact one of our members for information or support please feel free. We guarantee a listening ear and support even though we have no more official meeting for this year. The Committee will be meeting in January to plan the day and evening meetings and look at the topic that will be discussed as well as arrange guest speakers and special events. This is all made possible through the generous support from our community. The 4C’s are indebted to our local community for their support through raising awareness and funds for new
Summer 2012
Diamond Creek News
members. Recently Contours and Curves of Diamond Creek held candle sales and green teas hand wash sales with Sandra Davies from Dominant Home Care. We really appreciated your support in raising awareness of women’s cancers. Sandra Davies also kindly approach many businesses to make up a welcome pack for new members. This pack has been gratefully accepted by our new members and it contains many treats and vouchers from local businesses. We would like to thank all business for their contribution to the 4C’s welcome pack. Our thanks is also extended to Sandra who has coordinated this great initiative as a volunteer. A big thank you to Mitre 10 and staff for their Ladies Night in September thank you once again for your great efforts. I love my pink shovel!! Living and Learning Nillumbik deserve another big thank you for the Girls’ Night In held in October at the Diamond Creek Community Centre. The room was decorated beautifully, a fantastic meal was consumed by all and we danced the night away to Amanda and the Jets. Thank you to the girls at Living and Learning Nillumbik and to Amanda and the Jets. 4C’s can be contacted through Nillumbik Community Health Service on 9430 9154 Linda Hammond is our Community Health Nurse. We wish you all a joyous Christmas and New Year and thank you for your support as a Diamond Creek community.
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SAVE THE CHILDREN DIAMOND CREEK BRANCH Christmas Blessings and Greetings to all of our supporters and their families and may 2013 bring you all Good Health and Good Cheer. The year of 2012 seemed to flash by with extreme alacrity, so to our surprise here is our last newsletter for the year. Stalling News: We held a three day stall outside Coles Supermarket in Eltham. We sold a lot of knitwear for babies and toddlers and sundry craft items. We raised $1,000. We have just delivered two bags knitted baby wear from our ‘Ladies of the Manor’ who reside on the Mornington Peninsula.
AGE 3+ GROUP VACANCIES FOR 2013 Contact us; Call our enrolment officer Leanne on 0401 974 442 Email the Pre-School at diamond.creek.east.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au or call in to see us at 28 Coniston St Diamond Creek.
Though these talented Knitters have celebrated their 90th Birthdays, they keep those needles clicking, and our supply for our next venture is always there only to disappear off the table by the end of the week. We thank all those who knit and donate craft work, your creativity and industry are the ‘engines’ that keep us stalling around. Our 49th Annual General Meeting was held on the October 8, 2012 at the home of Mrs. Carol Randle. President Mrs. Pam Markus, Secretary, Mrs. Lorraine Ramplin, Treasurer Mrs. Val Greer were all re-elected. In the last newsletter we reported that some of the money raised was sent over to Fiji as they had a devastating cyclone. Pam Markus received a thank-you letter just as this newsletter was being completed, from Jennifer Keys of Save the Children Australia to thank our Branch for the donation. They have purchased Early Learning Equipment which had to be replaced due to cyclone, and now can start the Early Learning Class in 2013 with replacement equipment. We were delighted to receive this feedback and pass it on to our donators, and all the friendly people who buy our merchandise. “From little things big things grow” as the song goes, if everyone does a little we can Save the Children all over the world from hunger, disease and lack of education. Wishing all our readers a Happy Christmas and may you all enjoy safe and enjoyable holidays. We will be back with more news in 2013. Jill Pittle
Peace of mind A clean, safe and loving environment for your child A Personalised, Clean Centre Highly Qualified Staff Committed to the Care and Development of Children. Open from 7.00 am to 6.30 pm (Monday to Friday) Long Day Care – 6 weeks – 5 Years Kindergarten program provided by a qualified Kindergarten Teacher promoting a wonderful literacy and numeracy program Nutricious Meals, Cooked on the Premises (Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea)
Multilingual and Bilingual staff members Our Centre has an Open Door Policy Privately Owned by a local family Enquiries welcome: Director, Deborah Phone: (03) 9435 5104 or Mobile: 0433 379 430 www.sutherlandchildcare.com
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Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
Pride of Workmanship Awards The Rotary Club of Diamond Creek recently presented their annual Pride of Workmanship Awards. The recipients of the award are all nominated by their workplace or by the community for a job well done. Each one of the awardees has extended themselves and “gone the extra mile”. Proud recipients were Andrew Knight who is employed by Nillumbik Shire Council, Travis De Silva from Lloyd Plumbing and Jeremy Georges from Vines Café, (who unfortunately could not attend on the night). Each were given a plaque and a certificate to commemorate their award. Andrew Knight was nominated by Nillumbik Shire Council because of his tireless and dedicated approach on erosion rehabilitation and drainage improvement works after the Black Saturday fires and recent storms. Travis De Silva was nominated by both a local builder and a resident for whom Lloyd Plumbing had done some work. His meticulous work, great customer service and professional atti-
tude earned him his award. Jeremy Georges was nominated by his manager for the way that he has enhanced the menu at Vines Café. The Awards were presented by local resident, Ken Crompton, founder and former CEO of the John Monash Foundation, a former Agent General for Victoria in London and former CEO of the Australian Chamber of Manufactures. Ken made a significant keynote speech about the importance of taking pride in one’s work.
banks, schools, childcare centres and retail establishments. If there is any business or organisation within the Shire who would like to participate in next year’s awards please call Alan Jones on 0414 861 558.
In the past the Rotary Club of Diamond Creek has made awards to staff from
now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Summer 2012
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Hall’s Funeral Services 15 Station Street, Diamond Creek. An Australian owned and operated family Funeral business for three generations that understands the needs of people at a time of grief.
Pre-arranged and Prepaid Funerals
Telephone: 9438 5416 24 Hours a Day 7 Days a Week now online www.diamondcreeknews.com Page 32
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
What’s Happening at the… Diamond Creek Bowling Club Now the Pennant Season is underway our Tuesday and Saturday teams have been experiencing some great games. At the time of this report, two of our Tuesday Pennant and three of our Saturday Pennant teams are in the top four. Our bowlers have pennant practise every Thursday afternoon with drills and coaching advice and are confident they will continue to improve.
SUMMER BOWLIING Every second Monday, bowlers from our club, and visiting bowlers, are competing in our ‘Hot Cash” Triples Competition. While the onlooker may think these afternoons appear relaxed and informal, this is a strong and determined competition, and with each bowler having three bowls, there are many tight good shots.
BARE FOOT BOWLS…
tables. On the Monday night before the Melbourne Cup, members enjoyed what is becoming a Diamond Creek tradition, The Cup Eve Calcutta. There was a variety of games for all to enjoy and the winners of ‘Fashions on the Field’ were Peter Crocker and Jean Robinson. Winner of the 2010 Diamond Creek Calcutta was Ted Landy. Diamond Creek Bowling Club is a friendly place to come and enjoy a game of bowls. If you would like to visit our club you would be made most welcome. For any Information… please phone the club on 9438 1717. Our Clubrooms are at Recreation Reserve, Diamond Creek. Sandra Darling - Media.
Our Friday night Bare Foot Bowls competition is underway. With a BBQ meal when they arrive, and then 16 ends of bowls, we have 14 teams of mixed ages having a great time. There will be a short break over Christmas and then the fun will continue again. If you have any queries please contact Graham Guy on 0411 798546 or email gusguy@bigpond.net.au
SOCIAL COMMITTEE… After a very special Launch Dinner that transformed our lounge area into a 5 star restaurant, our Social Committee organised a journey back in time with our first 60/40 Supper Dance on Saturday 27th October. The band ‘The Two of Us’, provided fantastic music and members and their friends danced the night away. A major highlight was when the floor was filled with couples waltzing and the more adventurous doing the ‘Pride of Erin’. As with a Supper Dance, dancers took a break halfway through the night to enjoy and share a mammoth supper that filled six
Summer 2012
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The North East Region Volunteer Resource Centre (located in Heidelberg, also known as Volunteers of Banyule) provides information to groups and individuals about volunteering, assists members of the community to find suitable volunteering opportunities, and supports non-profit community organisations with recruiting volunteers throughout Banyule and Nillumbik. Nillumbik residents have shown a lot of interest in this service, so a local outreach service has been developed through a partnership between the Shire of Nillumbik and Volunteers of Banyule. Volunteers of Nillumbik will run a weekly outreach volunteer service on a Monday, across different townships in Nillumbik including Eltham, Diamond Creek, Hurstbridge and St Andrews. If you are interested in volunteering in your local area and would like some in-
INTRODUCING:
The Volunteers of Nillumbik formation about what is available, this service is a great place to start. For more information about this exciting new service please feel free to contact myself, Emily Scott Coordinator- Volunteers of Nillumbik on 0400 052 172 or 9458 3777 es-
cott@volunteersofbanyule.org.au Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VolunteersOfNillumbik
Become a CFA Volunteer today and make a difference in more ways than one. Free call 1800 232 636 for more information on how to join or call into your local CFA Station Page 34
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year from everyone at the Diamond Creek News
Diamond Creek News
Summer 2012
From all of us at Diamond Creek Community Bank速 Branch, best wishes for the holiday season and thank you for your loyalty and support. We look forward to seeing you Saturday 22 December - 9am to noon Sunday 23 December - Closed Monday 24 December - 9am to 5pm Tuesday 25 December - Closed Wednesday 26 December - Closed Thursday 27 December - 9am to 5pm Friday 28 December - 9am to 5pm Saturday 29 December - 9am to noon Sunday 30 December - Closed Monday 31 December - 9am to 5pm Tuesday 1 January - Closed
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Diamond Creek Community Bank速 Branch
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