Macedon Ranges Shire Council Newsletter :: Issue 20 :: November 2016
Pages 2–3 What’s on
Summer fire safety Pages 8–9
Be ready: Prepare your bushfire survival plan
Page 7
Want to volunteer? Find out how
Page 10
Break It Down: worm farm and compost bin rebate program
Page 16
Free outdoor pool pass
Events at the Rock Petanque at the Rock Triples
Camp Out at the Rock
Saturday 8 April
Sunday 27 November Witness the fun and skilful game of petanque at its best in this Super Sunday Triples Tournament. Visit petanqueattherock.com.au or call Helen on 0408 118 318.
Experience an exciting overnight camp out at the base of the Rock. Bookings essential. For more information and bookings, call 5421 1468.
Run the Rock
Horse racing at the Rock
Saturday 1 April
New Year’s Day races: Sunday 1 January Australia Day races: Thursday 26 January
Choose from a 2km kids run, 5km run/walk, 12km run and 20km run. Proceeds go to Everyday Hero charity. Visit solemotive.com.au for details or call 9285 0600.
Gates open 11am. Visit countryracing.com.au/hanging-rock or call 1300 139 402.
Night Walks
Experience the mystery of Hanging Rock at night, with a guided tour of the Reserve. Tour dates: 25 November 9 December 13 January 24 February 17 March Bookings essential. To book, call 5421 1468.
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Saturday 11 February
Bruce Springsteen returns to the Rock as part of his Summer ’17 tour. For information visit hangingrockconcerts.com
Classic Car Display
Sunday 12 February Come along to Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club’s annual picnic day car display. Visit picnicathangingrock.com.au or call Graham on 0419 393 023.
Summer evenings at the Rock Grab the snags, pack a picnic and spend your summer evenings at Hanging Rock! Throughout December, January and February, Hanging Rock Reserve is staying open until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays, giving you a chance to do more of what you love–spending time in one of our region’s most spectacular spots. Note: Hanging Rock Reserve is closed Christmas Day.
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:: Hanging Rock • What’s on
8pm close
What’s on Australia Day celebrations
Thursday 26 January Join one of our Australia Day fun runs before heading off to a celebratory barbecue and a range of other activities in townships across the shire. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/australiaday for information and locations.
Lancefield Megafauna Festival
25 and 26 November Did you know that Lancefield is famous for one of Australia’s largest discoveries of megafauna fossils dating back more than 40,000 years? Come along to the Lancefield Megafauna Festival and find out more about the town’s fascinating history. With a range of family friendly activities on offer, the community-led event also features a talk with environmentalist Tim Flannery. For more information and to book visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/environment-events
Community spotlight walk
Saturday 10 December 9pm–10.30pm Bald Hill Reserve 281 Pipers Creek Road, Kyneton Don’t miss your chance to spot sugar gliders, possums and night birds during this special night tour of Bald Hill Reserve. Led by Council environment officers and the Friends of Bald Hill Reserve, participants are advised to book early to avoid disappointment and bring a torch, warm clothing and sturdy footwear. To book visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/environment-events
Arts and Culture program launch
Friday 10 February, Kyneton Town Hall, 5.30pm Be the first to find out what music, comedy, dance, exhibitions and workshops are headed for the shire in the New Year at our Arts and Culture program launch. Pick up discounted tickets to shows, enjoy the nibbles and grab yourself a glass of sparkling. See mrsc.vic.gov.au/arts or call 1300 888 802 for details.
Social Business Networking Night
Monday 28 November, 6.30pm–9.30pm Cost: $40 (Macedon Ranges Shire businesses) $60 (non-residents) Cope-Williams Winery, 160 Glenfern Road, Romsey Come along to this fun and informal end of year networking event. This year’s theme is health and wellbeing-which is an emerging industry sector in our region. Experience a diverse range of businesses offering interesting therapies and treatments and enjoy local food and wine. For more information or to book, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events or call 5421 9616.
Business events
Local businesses can choose from a range of valuable hands-on workshops, seminars, training opportunities and networking events in 2017 as part of our Business Seminars, Networking and Training Program. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events or call 5421 9616. Page 03
Is your child eligible for Early Start Kindergarten? Early Start Kindergarten provides free or low cost kindergarten to eligible three year old children where programs are offered by a qualified teacher. Engaging children in high-quality early learning programs sets the foundations for future success in school and life. Children are eligible for Early Start Kindergarten if they are: • aged three by 30 April in the year they will be attending a kindergarten program • of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent • your family has had contact with Victoria Child Protection Service or been referred by them to Child FIRST. To find out more call 5421 9510.
Connecting young parents An online community for parents aged 25 and under is up and running as part of Council’s Young Parent Connection Project. Members of the closed Facebook group can connect with other young parents online, make friends, access information, receive invitations to local activities and events and influence the activities that form part of the Young Parent Connection Project. The online community is complemented by face-to-face activities in the community such as playgroups, library sessions, art and craft activities, and visiting parks and local attractions. Visit facebook.com/groups/MRSCYoungParents to find out more, or call Molly Peterson on 5422 0252 or 0487 700 343, or email at mpeterson@mrsc.vic.gov.au
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:: Children and families • Pools • Summer safety
Make a splash at our outdoor pools Council’s outdoor swimming pools in Lancefield and Woodend will open for the 2016/17 summer season from Saturday 3 December 2016 until Sunday 5 March 2017. Pool opening hours are determined according to Bureau of Meteorology temperature forecasts for Melbourne. Some adjustments to the pool opening hours have been made since last year following a review of pool patronage.
School terms
School holidays
3–20 December 2016 and 30 January–5 March 2017
21 December–29 January 2017
Under 26 degrees: CLOSED
Under 24 degrees: CLOSED
26–29 degrees: 3.30pm–6pm
24–29 degrees: 1.30pm–6pm
30 degrees and above: 1.30pm–6pm (possible extension of hours past 6pm dependant upon patronage and weather conditions).
30 degrees and above: 11am–6pm (possible extension of hours past 6pm dependant upon patronage and weather conditions).
Locations and contact details Lancefield Memorial Swimming Pool Chauncey Street, Lancefield Phone 5429 1546 Woodend Swimming Pool Forest Street, Woodend Phone 5427 2268
Note: Council's outdoor and aquatic centres will be closed Christmas Day. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/outdoor-pools for more information
Safety at home
Watch around water
Council provides a safe, fun and family friendly environment throughout all its aquatic centres and outdoor pools within the shire. To ensure everyone enjoys their visit to their local pool during summer, Council is registered with the Watch Around Water program. The initiative encourages parental supervision of children in and around the water, with the supervision guidelines requiring: • Children under 5 years of age must be supervised by an adult who is required to be within arm’s reach of them at all times. • Children 5–10 years of age must be supervised by an adult at all times while in a body of water. • No child under the age of 10 years will be admitted to a facility unless they are accompanied by a person over 16 years of age. The Watch around Water program, managed by Lifesaving Victoria and Aquatics and Recreation Victoria aims to reduce the number of fatal and non-fatal drownings and associated injuries in Victoria, within the 0–14 year age group. Visit aquaticsandrecreation.org.au/watcharoundwater to find out more.
Now’s the time to make sure swimming pools and spas are inspected and maintained and comply with regulations. This means: • ensuring the gate shuts and locks correctly • adjusting and lubricating the gate • inspecting the barrier for corrosion • cleaning up around your safety barrier or pool fence • removing any objects around the safety barrier (such as pot plants, chairs, pool pumps) which could allow a child to climb over the fence • cutting back any overhanging trees. Owners of rental properties with swimming pools and spas are responsible to ensure the barrier is maintained. All in-ground and above ground swimming pools and spas containing a depth of water greater than 300mm (30cm)–including children’s inflatable swimming pools, require a building permit for construction as well as a safety barrier or pool fence. For more information on pool safety, swimming pools, spas, safety barriers and ongoing maintenance requirements, contact Council’s Building unit on 5421 9681. Page 05
Bringing together wise and wonderful ideas for an age-friendly community What activities, projects and events would better support older people in your town? This is the question Council asked shire residents aged 55 years and over recently to help develop a new-age friendly initiative. The project aims to support older people to participate more fully in community life, stay active and well-connected.
Council is currently reviewing more than 150 responses and working with the community to determine which suggested projects will be funded. The project was made possible by a $100,000 Age-friendly Communities Grant from the Victorian Government. To find out more about the project or to get involved, call Rebecca on 5422 0262.
My Aged Care: finding the right services
If you’re looking for information on aged care services for yourself, a family member or someone you’re caring for, visit My Aged Care (myagedcare.gov.au) The website, established by the Australian Government, offers information on the different types of aged services available, your eligibility and helps find the right service provider to meet your needs. If you are already receiving aged care services, you do not have to contact My Aged Care unless your circumstances or care needs change. For more information, call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
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:: Community services
Give and receive:
volunteering with Council Learn new skills, meet new people and engage with your community by volunteering with Council today.
From cooking and caring through to tourism and the arts, there are a range of positions available with Council. We are currently seeking volunteers for the following:
Casserole Club
Be matched with an older person who is living alone in your community, deliver them a spare portion of your home-cooked food and have a friendly chat.
Social support transport
Help residents get to essential, non-surgical, medical appointments in Melbourne or Bendigo. We can supply a vehicle or reimburse you for your fuel costs.
Community support
Assist an older person to participate in social activities around their town or just pop by for a friendly cuppa. To find out more about these opportunities, call Rebecca on 5422 0262 or email rmillard@mrsc.vic.gov.au
Visitor Information Centres (VICs)
Share your knowledge and passion for our region at our Kyneton and Woodend VICs. To find out more, call Christine on 5422 6785 or email vic@mrsc.vic.gov.au
A place for all
Upgrade works to Riddells Creek Community Centre are now complete. Improvements include works to the building, internal works on flooring, walls, doors and windows, along with external and landscape enhancements. The refurbishment aimed to create a community facility suitable for all in the township. Council would like to thank Riddells Creek Senior Citizens Club and the community for their patience during the works.
Kyneton Town Hall is buzzing
From tap and ballet through to contemporary, it’s all about dance at Kyneton Town Hall as local dance schools host their end of year concerts at the venue. The performing arts space is also set for a facelift over the summer months, with a range of works planned designed to breathe new life into the historic building. The upgrades will see improved accessibility to the bar and box office, with new doors, electrical and plumbing upgrades, new signage and storage. A new heating and cooling system will also be installed to provide year-round comfort. Ambient lighting and new furniture will give a fresh look and feel to the hall. Works at the site are expected to begin in November, with the grand unveiling of the new look bar and foyer set to coincide with the 2017 Arts and Culture Program launch on Friday 10 February.
This Christmas share a meal with us
Don’t be on your own this Christmas Day–join us for a free lunch at the Kyneton Town Hall. Join Council and Cobaw Community Health for the ninth annual Christmas Day lunch. Enjoy the company of others, share a meal and join in a Christmas sing-a-long. Bookings are essential. To book, call 1300 888 802 or email kthtickets@mrsc.vic.gov.au Please leave your name, age (this is so we can organise age-appropriate presents for each child under 16), postal address and phone number. You will be sent a ticket/ invitation in the mail.
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Summer fire Emergency preparation liftout—tear out and keep
Be ready Macedon Ranges If an emergency such as a bushfire occurs and you need to leave your home, Council will open an emergency relief centre. This centre is located well away from the affected area and the location will be broadcast on radio, social media and relevant websites. Services available at relief centres • Food and water • Personal support • Temporary accommodation • Information • A place to bring your pets (make sure you bring a leash or cage, food, water bowls and anything else they may need)
If you are unable to leave your property or choose to stay, you will need to have at least three days’ supply of food, water, fuel and other necessities. As soon as possible after the event and where necessary, Council will open a recovery centre. This centre will be located as close as possible to the affected area. Services that are available at a recovery centre include: • Information about emergency grants • Personal support • Information on clean up, health and wellbeing • Housing, insurance Immediately following an event, Council works with other agencies to assess the impact of the event. You may receive a visit from staff or volunteers who will be checking to see how you are managing after the incident and assessing damage to your property, animals, trees and fencing. Experience shows that those people who have prepared their property and have a bushfire survival plan recover more quickly from an emergency.
Staying informed Hear
• Listen to the radio • Ring the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667
See • Actively patrol your property • Download the new VicEmergency App on your smart phone or tablet • VicEmergency, a single all-emergencies website, emergency.vic.gov.au
Find us on Facebook Macedon Ranges Emergency Alerts
Share Use social media and share information with family and friends
facebook.com/MacedonRangesEmergencyAlerts
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:: Emergency ????????????????????????? preparation
The Macedon Ranges Emergency Alerts page aims to help you to prepare for and respond to an emergency in your town or region, such as fire, flood or heatwave. This page does not replace official emergency alerts from the CFA, Victoria Police or SES.
safety
Emergency preparation liftout—tear out and keep
Bushfire survival plan
Understanding your level of risk is the first step in developing your Bushfire Survival Plan. Research shows that when threatened by a fire, many people living in high risk areas will leave it too late to make critical decisions, leaving them with very few safe options. In high-risk areas, leaving early is your safest option—particularly on Code Red, Extreme and Severe days.
Where will you go?
It’s important to identify where you will go on high fire risk days such as to family or friends, in Melbourne or elsewhere. Neighbourhood Safer Places—Places of Last Resort should not be your ‘go-to’ place when you decide to enact your fire plan. These places are a ‘last resort’ option when all your plans have failed and the fire is about to impact your home. They are not staffed, may not have electricity or other services, and there is no guarantee that the CFA or other agencies will be able to defend the building if it is threatened by fire.
Are you ready? • Pack an emergency kit, including medication. • Keep at least 72 hours’ worth of emergency supplies on hand. • Consider vulnerable members of your family, such as the elderly or those living with a disability. • Plan for the welfare of your pets, horses and livestock. • Review your home insurance to ensure you are properly covered. • Maintain your property over the fire season. For more tips, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/fire-ready and cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare
Maintaining our roadsides
Our rural roadsides contain some of the shire’s most significant native vegetation. These roadsides are critical biodiversity links, often providing the only habitat corridors for wildlife travelling between areas of bushland. The management of rural roadsides is complex, with Council, VicRoads and residents all playing a role in their maintenance and protection. With limited resources, we need to strike the right balance between making our roads safe for drivers and meeting our fire prevention and environmental obligations. Council is currently preparing a Roadside Management Plan which will establish a set of standards, protocols and guidelines for Council works to achieve these multiple objectives. The conservation value of each roadside is currently being reviewed, with a draft Roadside Management Plan to be prepared by mid-2017. To find out if a road is managed by VicRoads or Council, visit maps.vicroads.vic.gov.au For more information on Council managed roads, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/roads
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roadsides
Tackling weeds
Council has begun its annual roadside weed program, which seeks to enhance biodiversity, reduce fire hazards and protect and improve the appearance of roadsides throughout the shire. Each year Council aims to treat over 250 Council managed roadsides. Priority species include declared noxious weeds such as gorse, blackberry, broom, sweet briar and serrated tussock. To see which sites are included in this year’s program and for more information about different weed species and treatment techniques, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/weeds
Free workshop Saturday 3 December Bald Hill Reserve, Kyneton Do you own a small farm property and have a weed problem? Learn how to treat weeds on your property at this free workshop. Bookings essential. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/environment-events to book, or call 5421 9660.
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:: Environment • Sustainability
co
Break It Down: worm farm and compost bin rebate program Did you know the average household bin contains more than 25 per cent food waste? Council is making it easy for residents and business in the shire to recycle garden clippings and food scraps by offering a rebate on the purchase of worm farms, compost bins and associated accessories. The Break It Down: Worm Farm and Compost Bin Rebate Program offers residents and businesses who live and operate in the Macedon Ranges a rebate of 50 per cent off the price of worm farms, compost bins and associated accessories, to a maximum of $100. Fill out a rebate form and take it to a designated suppliers to receive your discount. For more information, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/breakitdown
ompost
Getting waste sorted sustainably Council has received an $11,000 Keep Australia Beautiful grant to assist in improving recycling at the shire’s sporting grounds. The Beverage Container Recycling Community Grants funding will allow Council to install new recycling bins in sporting grounds throughout the shire. The program aims to reduce waste going to landfill through a trial that will assess the effectiveness of temporarily placed recycling bins. A recent audit of waste bins currently located in shire sporting grounds revealed 70 per cent of material in general waste bins was recyclable. These recyclables included aluminium cans, glass bottles, tetra packs, plastic bottles and containers. The grant will fund the installation of 80 new purpose-built recycling bins at sporting grounds as well as associated signage, which will promote the correct disposal of recyclable materials. The new initiative supports the objectives of Council’s Waste Management Strategy 2015-20, which focusses on community involvement in reducing litter and increasing reuse and recovery of materials. Council’s Operations and Recreation units will work with local sporting clubs to implement the trial in coming months, with a view to install recycling bins at sporting grounds on a permanent basis should the trial prove successful.
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Business New guidelines for developing an equine business
Are you thinking about setting up an equine business in the Macedon Ranges? New guidelines have been designed to help you to understand some of the requirements associated with these types of businesses. To find out more, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/equine-centre If you’re considering establishing and/or expanding an existing equine business in the Macedon Ranges or are looking to purchase property for development, get in touch with our Economic Development and Tourism Department on 5421 9616. We can provide you with the necessary guidance and the steps that would need to be undertaken to achieve your goal.
Environmental Upgrade Agreements
Council has recently agreed to offer Environment Upgrade Agreements (EUAs) to businesses in the shire. An EUA is an agreement between a commercial property owner, a bank and local government that facilitates building upgrades to improve energy, water or waste efficiencies or to increase use of renewable energy. EUAs allow for tenants and building owners of commercial property to collaborate on projects that provide positive environmental outcomes and also reduce operating costs. EUAs also offer 100 per cent project finance, competitive interest rates and extended loan periods. Expressions of interest for participation in this program are now being sought. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/EUA for more information, or call Robert on 5421 9615.
Discover what’s on in the Macedon Ranges
If you’re looking to get out and about, remember that there’s so much to see and do right here in our own backyard. The million-plus people that visit our shire each year must be on to something, right? If you’ve got a sunny day with nothing planned or maybe you’ve got some friends or family coming to visit, make sure you check out the What’s On section of visitmacedonranges.com – it’s packed with loads of things to see and do. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to like the Macedon Ranges Naturally Cool Facebook page—then you’ll be in the know with what’s happening in the place we call home.
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:: Business • Major projects
Agribusiness Plan update Now two years in to the implementation of the Plan we thought it was time to update you on some of the key activities undertaken to date: • Agribusiness Forum developed and meets regularly • Producers Directory launched and Meet the Producers business matching workshop held • New Farmers Kit developed and distributed • Kyneton Saleyards Strategic Plan complete • Responses provided to Government submissions. And a few important things to come: • Support and further roll out of the Farmer Needs a Farmer Program • Development of an identity for Macedon Ranges agriculture products/provenance • Building of the Producers Directory for more regular targeted communication. For more information on the Agribusiness Plan, call Robert on 5421 9615 or email rmcloughlin@mrsc.vic.gov.au
Major projects Hanging Rock update
Kyneton Community Park update
After a wet winter and spring, the grounds at Kyneton Botanic Gardens are now dry enough for works to begin on the construction of Kyneton Community Park. Over the coming months the site will be a hive of activity as a variety of play elements are installed. These include a water play area, swings, ropes course and raised cubby houses. Planting will get underway at the site, along with the installation of nature based play experiences using local rocks, timber and other materials. The Kyneton Community Park, nestled within the heart of Kyneton’s Botanic Gardens, is set to be a place for all ages and abilities where community members can gather, celebrate, play and explore. The park will include elements to reflect the origins of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens, along with Kyneton’s town history, Indigenous and colonial history, and Kyneton’s role as an agricultural hub for the surrounding goldfields. To receive regular updates on the parks development, subscribe to our email reports by contacting Jodie Turner on jturner@mrsc.vic.gov.au
Romsey All Abilities Park on its way
Plans to transform the former Romsey Primary School site into a shared community space are continuing. The project, which is a joint partnership between Council, the Greater Romsey All Abilities Park (GRAAP) committee and Cobaw Community Health, will see the construction of an all-abilities park and refurbishment of the existing school building, bringing the structure back to its former glory. The site has local heritage significance, so the design of the building focuses on restoring its internal and external heritage features. This work will be complemented by an extension built behind the school house, where a variety of allied health services can be accessed by the community. Following community consultation in September, Council’s landscape architect developed concept plans for the park on the remainder of the site. The plans respond to community feedback and capture the vision for the site that the GRAAP committee have developed over the previous eight years. Proposals for inclusion in the park include an active nature based play area within a woodland that encourages climbing, swinging, scrambling and other physical challenges through the use of natural materials and elements. It also features a therapeutic/sensory garden zone. To view the concept plans for the building and park, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Romsey-Park For more information, call Jodie on 5422 0247.
The first steps in the development of a new master plan for Hanging Rock have concluded, with consultation on the Hanging Rock Vision Paper complete. Hundreds of residents and visitors have given feedback via an online survey or directly on the draft Vision Paper. Listening posts at markets and Hanging Rock were conducted over September and October. The master plan will be informed by public response to the Vision Paper, discussions with key groups and individuals, information gathered at workshops, and the expertise of the consultant team. A draft of the master plan will be considered by Council at its December meeting prior to being released for public discussion and comment in early 2017. The new skills-based Hanging Rock Strategic Advisory Committee is being formed and will have input to the draft master plan.
Regular updates on the project will be provided at mrsc.vic.gov.au/HangingRock or you can sign up for regular email updates on the project via hangingrock@mrsc.vic.gov.au
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Operating hours over Christmas and New Year
Your rates at work
The following works are currently underway: Road reconstruction works on McGeorge Road, Gisborne South between Watson and Weigall streets. To be completed by the end of November 2016.
Council service centres in Kyneton, Gisborne, Romsey and Woodend will be closed from 12.30pm on Friday 23 December 2016 and will reopen at 8.30am Tuesday 3 January 2017. For more information about changes to Council services during the Christmas and New Year period, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au
Pavement reconstruction, drainage works and seal widening of Three Chain Road, Carlsruhe, near the intersection of Mowbrays Road. To be completed by December 2016.
Garbage, recycling and green bin collection
Road improvement works on Smith and Victoria streets, Macedon, involving the reconstruction of the pavement, installation of kerb and channel to improve drainage and resurfacing of the road with a new asphalt surface.
There will be no change to bin collection services over the Christmas and New Year period.
Construction of a new 1.5 metre footpath to improve pedestrian safety at the intersection of Wrixon and Murphy streets, Romsey and the intersection of Pohlman and Murphy streets, Romsey. Culvert renewal works on Chambers Road, Ashbourne. This includes the removal of the existing structure over the Campaspe River to improve road safety for motorists. The works include installation of a new box culvert structure, rock beaching within the stream and a road pavement reconstruction. To be completed by February 2017.
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Bins will be collected as normal on public holidays Monday 26 December and Monday 2 January 2017. For any service problems with garbage, recycling and green bins, contact Wheelie Waste on 1800 999 690. For emergency after hours assistance, call 5422 0333.
:: Your rates • Christmas operating hours • Contacts
Subscribe to eNews
Receive updates on Council projects and services direct to your mailbox. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/newsletters and subscribe to one or more of the following: • Aquatics and Leisure: fitness classes, sporting activities, lane availability, swim lessons, school holiday activities and membership specials. • Arts and Culture: arts and cultural events, festivals, exhibitions and funding opportunities in the Macedon Ranges. • Business: events, support and other opportunities for businesses and tourism in the Macedon Ranges. • Disability: Council programs and local service providers that cater to people with a disability. • Environment: environmental projects and events happening in the shire. • Family: information for local families with children aged from birth to eight years. • ShireLife: receive our bi-monthly newsletter and other Council news via email. Great if you want more regular updates or don’t receive ShireLife in your letterbox or PO Box.
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Macedon Ranges Naturally Cool
Rates instalments
ments st be paid in four instal Rates and charges mue date. Instalment reminder by no later than the duor to each instalment date. notices will be sent pri paid by the due date it If an instalment is not nalty interest. will be charged with pe 2016/17 are: Instalment dates for | 28 February 2017 30 November 2016 | 30 September 2017 31 May 2017 via BPAY View®, online You can pay your rates via Council’s website, with Visa or Mastercard ents or in person at a mrsc.vic.gov.au/paym Council service centre. t ns about rates paymenrates on If you have any questio g your yin pa y ult fic dif ve ha u 22. methods, or if yo department on 5422 03 time, contact the Rates
Contact Council
You can contact Council by: Phone 5422 0333 or 1300 656 577* Email mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au Website mrsc.vic.gov.au Post PO Box 151, Kyneton VIC 3444 * Our 1300 number offers residents living in the south of the shire the ability to contact us without incurring an STD call rate. Visit one of our service centres: 40 Robertson Street, Gisborne 129 Mollison Street, Kyneton 96−100 Main Street, Romsey Cnr High and Forest Streets, Woodend. Residents who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can contact Council through the National Relay Service:
• TTY users phone 133 677 then ask for (03) 5422 0333 • Speak and Listen (speech-to-speech relay) users phone 1300 555 727 then ask for (03) 5422 0333 • Internet relay users connect to the NRS (see www.relayservice.com.au for details) and then ask for (03) 5422 0333.
If you or someone you know may benefit from receiving a large print version of this newsletter, contact us on 5422 0302 or email comms@mrsc.vic.gov.au
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You can also find us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. For more information, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/contact-us
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Voucher Voucher Voucher
Free pool pass Present this voucher at either the Lancefield or Woodend outdoor pool to receive free entry.
Valid for 1 adult or 1 child until 31 December 2016. Limit 1 per person.
Free coffee at Kyneton Town Hall
Present this voucher to enjoy a free barista-made coffee at one of our performance season shows in 2017. For event details and bookings, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/arts or call 1300 888 802.
New Councillors A new Macedon Ranges Shire Council was formed following local government elections in October.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council Newsletter :: Issue 20 :: November 2016
The new councillors are: East Ward Henry Bleeck Natasha Gayfer Bill West South Ward Mandi Mees Helen Radnedge Andrew Twaits West Ward Jennifer Anderson Roger Jukes Janet Pearce
For more information, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/councillors
Request a New Resident Kit Are you new to the shire? Contact us to request a New Resident Kit to be sent to you. Submit a request online at mrsc.vic.gov.au, call 5422 0333 or visit a Council service centre in Gisborne, Kyneton, Romsey or Woodend.
Summer fire safety Pages 8–9
Be ready: Prepare your bushfire survival plan