June 2013 mitcham community news

Celebrating our Volunteers inside JUNE 2013

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Council Consults on Budget

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Cooking Classes for Senior Men

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Is Your Wood Heater Costing You Money?

Thanks a Million Every single volunteer makes an important contribution to our community.

Upcoming Work in Your Street

The City of Mitcham would like to thank its dedicated volunteers for their wonderful work throughout the year during National Volunteer Week in May.

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Dog and Cat Animal Management Plan Your Elected Members Mitcham's New Street Trees Which Bin for Plastics?

National Volunteer Week is the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteering in Australia, and provides an opportunity to highlight the role of volunteers in our communities.

The City of Mitcham will be celebrating with their volunteers in June to thank them for their contribution to the community and let them know they are valued.

Council has a number of programs supported by volunteers who share their own time, enthusiasm and skills in interesting and enjoyable activities. Our community benefits through volunteer participation.

Every single volunteer makes an important contribution to our community. These services include Community Bus drivers and helpers, personal transport driver support, supporting older people by

connecting them with community activities through our Community Connections program, our library services, community information service, community news reading, local heritage centre, Community Shed services, shared use trails and many more.

There are many volunteering programs that currently have vacancies and if you are interested

in volunteering then now is a great time to take the first step.

Volunteering positions are available in our Community Connections program, Community Bus drivers and helpers, personal transport, our gardening services such as Urrbrae Wetlands, Nellie’s Garden or Gamble Garden or perhaps you would like to lead a walking group or have an interest in local history.

Please phone Melissa Jensen, Coordinator of Volunteer Services on 8372 8860 to discuss any volunteering opportunities you may be interested in or visit mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au for information about different volunteering roles.

PAGE 2 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Recognising Local Government in the Australian Constitution Vote Yes on 14 September 2013 to recognise Local Government in the Australian Constitution to ensure Councils continue to receive funding from the Federal Government.

The Federal Government has announced that there will be a referendum held in conjunction with the 14 September 2013 election, which will address the issue of the financial recognition of Local Government in the Australian Constitution.

The referendum has been prompted by the current legal uncertainty about the ability of the Federal Government to fund local communities directly through their council, due to two recent High Court cases - the Pape Case and the Williams Case.

A successful referendum result will ensure that the Federal Government can continue to provide funding directly to Local Government, as it has for more than 10 years.

This funding has provided vital infrastructure and services to the local community. In particular, Council has benefited from Roads to Recovery funding of $2,750,000 over the five year period from 2009/2010

to 2013/2014 as well as a number of smaller projects. This has resulted in the following major projects: reconstruction of Day Drive, Pasadena – Cashel Street to Dobson Avenue.

Kentucky Avenue, Panorama – Panorama Drive to cul de sac.

Bellavista Avenue, Clapham – Catherine Street to Price Avenue. resealing of Wattlebury Road, Colonel Light Gardens / Lower Mitcham - to Price Avenue.

Inverloch Avenue, Torrens Park.

The Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program has resulted in a $100,000 grant to the Blackwood Football Club to help install oval and carpark lighting. As this is Council property, it means there is an ongoing benefit to the community.

The referendum proposal is very simple. It is proposed that Section 96 of the Constitution is amended to

include a Local Government body, in addition to a State Government body, to which funding can be directly provided.

The referendum will not change the relationship between State and Local Government. Councils will still remain the responsibility of State Governments. There will be no change of status of Local Government or its powers.

The intention is simply to fix a problem that has arisen, which could seriously impact on the ability of Local Government to fund vital local community services and infrastructure. Without Federal funding, the State Government would not be able to afford to step in. This is because the Federal Government collects in excess of 80% of all tax revenue in Australia.

The referendum has the support of the Federal Government, the Federal Opposition, the Greens and the Independents.

Planning for the Future of Manson and Price Memorial Ovals The City of Mitcham is developing Master Plans to plan for the future of Manson Oval in Bellevue Heights and Price Memorial Oval in Hawthorn. the management of maintenance, The Master Plans will be developed the suitability of the sportsground vandalism and graffiti in consultation with the community and facilities. management. with the aim to improve the ovals for the opportunity to introduce sport and community use and will Visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au activities and increase community consider issues such as: in June to assist Council to develop access. the Master Plans. enhancing the appearance of the additional recreation facilities. oval and facilities.

For further information please contact Robert Pride at the City of Mitcham on 0411 861 034.

CC Hood Reserve - Dog Park Upgrade The dedicated Dog Park at CC Hood Reserve has recently been upgraded with a new path and lawn.

A new 250m sealed asphalt path has been laid to link with the shared use path on the southern end of the reserve.

The surface under the two shelters within the park has also been sealed.

An irrigation system has been installed to water the 1,000m2 of new Kikuyu instant turf which has been laid in two sections within the park. The remaining area of the park has been spread with fresh mulch.

Council Consults on 2013/2014 Draft Business Plan and Draft Long Term Financial Plan All residents and ratepayers of the City of Mitcham are invited to provide comment and feedback on the 2013/2014 Draft Business Plan and Draft Long Term Financial Plan. This is an opportunity for community members to share their views for consideration by Council prior to the adoption of the final plans.

The Draft Business Plan outlines the activities we propose to undertake over the next 12 months as we work towards our long term goals set out in our Strategic Management Plan.

This year we are budgeting $53 million in expenditure on delivering services and projects and a further $17.7 million on capital works.

The Draft Plan is based on a 5.25% rate increase leaving a budget deficit, which Council is committed to eliminating by 2014/2015.

It includes an increased investment in stormwater infrastructure improvements to reduce localised flooding throughout the City and the completion of Mitcham’s trail network that provides for walking, horse riding and mountain bike riding throughout the Mitcham hills, while continuing to deliver Council’s existing services.

We are also seeking comment on a 5% rates increase option which does not include the increased investment in stormwater infrastructure or the completion of the Mitcham trail network.

It is also proposed that the differential rate for commercial properties increase from 1.8 to 1.9 times the general (residential) rate and that vacant land be aligned to the commercial property rate.

Council, on the request of the Blackwood Business Network, is also seeking comment on the potential introduction of a separate rate on businesses within the Blackwood Business Precinct for the provision of their Blackwood Safety and Security Program.

There are a range of opportunities for you to provide feedback: Complete an online survey At www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/abp Provide a Written Submission Addressed to: Governance

City of Mitcham

PO Box 21

Mitcham Shopping Centre

TORRENS PARK SA 5062 Or email to: mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Each written submission must include your name and address. Any submissions received that do not provide this information may not be included in the consultation process.

Attend a Public Meeting Tuesday 25 June at 7 pm City of Mitcham Civic Centre

Council Chambers

131 Belair Road, Torrens Park To register your interest in presenting a submission at the Public Meeting phone 8372 8888 or email mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Submissions will be limited to a maximum of three (3) minutes each.

View a Copy of the Plan Copes of the 2013/2014 Draft Business Plan and Draft Long Term Financial Plan are available to view at: City of Mitcham Civic Centre, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park Mitcham Library, 154 Belair Road, Hawthorn Blackwood Library, 215 Main Road, Blackwood www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

All feedback must be received by 5 pm Wednesday 26 June.

JUNE 2013 Publication Details Mitcham Community News is published bi-monthly by and for the City of Mitcham.

Editorial Communications Department City of Mitcham Design + Production Sarah Bennett Design Reprographics + Printing Graphic Print Group

Paperstock Printed on paper made in Australia from elemental chlorine free pulp derived from sustainable plantation forests.

Distribution Salmat Mediaforce and Australia Post Delivered to 29,850 homes, PO boxes and businesses within the Mitcham Council area.

Advertising KRL Media Services Telephone: 8231 5433 PO Box 131 Unley, SA 5061

Contributing Articles Community groups and organisations submitting items for the August 2013 issue of this publication should ensure they reach Business Partner Communications and Marketing Officer Julie Lamond no later than Friday 5 July 2013.

Telephone: 8372 8871 or email jlamond@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Good quality colour/high resolution colour photographs/image files can be submitted although publication will depend on space availability.

Website http://www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Audio Tapes Mitcham Community News audio tapes are available at both Mitcham and Blackwood Libraries or by arrangement from the Community Information Service.

Telephone: 8372 8812.

Council Civic Centre Open weekdays 9 am to 5 pm.

131 Belair Road, Torrens Park or PO Box 21, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Torrens Park, South Australia 5062 Telephone: 8372 8888

Council Meetings The General Purpose Council Committee meeting is held on the second Tuesday of the month at 6.30 pm and the Development Assessment Panel meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6.30 pm. Full Council meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm.

The views and opinions expressed in articles and advertisements submitted by contributors, other than the City of Mitcham, do not necessarily reflect the views of the Council as a body, nor as individual members. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy in published articles submitted by contributors other than Council, no responsibility is accepted for any errors that they may contain.

PAGE 3 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Blackwood Community Centre Looking for a hills venue for hire or to join a local group?

The Blackwood Community Centre (formerly the Blackwood Over 50s Club) is available to the community for regular and one off meetings, classes and social events during the day or evening.

There is a large room with parquetry floor with an adjacent kitchen as well as a carpeted room with connecting lino floored space and galley kitchen.

Perhaps you may wish to join one of the existing groups or activities already established at the centre? Dance, fitness, hobby groups, companionship and opportunities for learning are all on offer.

The Blackwood Community Centre, 4 Young Street, Blackwood, is located in the centre of Blackwood.

For more information contact Lindy Taeuber on 8372 8262 or email ltaeuber@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Take the Community Bus to the Blackwood Library Do you live in the hills and love to read but find it difficult to get to the Library?

The Blackwood Library Community Bus Service visits the Blackwood Library once every month on a Monday afternoon from 1.45 pm until 3.30 pm. Passengers are collected from their homes and taken to the Blackwood Library where they can select news books and enjoy a chat and morning tea with others and make new friends. A gold coin donation is appreciated for the service.

For more information on the Community Bus Service please contact Katey Brown on 8374 7791.

Cooking Classes for Senior Men at the Blackwood Community Centre Would you like to learn how to cook nutritious and easy meals with a small group of men?

This extremely popular ‘Cooking Classes for Senior Men’ course will commence on 25 June at the Blackwood Community Centre.

The course, run by a friendly, qualified, male cook, involves six sessions, each session running for 2.5 hours. Cost for the six week course is $60.

The Blackwood Community Centre (formerly the Blackwood Over 50s Club) is located at 4 Young Street, Blackwood.

Learn how to host a Safe Party Are you are planning to host a party this year? Attend one of the free seminars being held during Drug Action Week and learn how to be ‘Party Wise’.

The City of Mitcham, in The ‘Party Wise seminars’ will of the Alcohol and other Drugs partnership with the Sammy D provide information to teenagers, Council of Australia, funded by the Foundation, is hosting free ‘Party parents and community groups Department of Health and Ageing.

Wise’ seminars. about your rights, risks and Over 500 year 9 and 10 students responsibilities when hosting a Parties should always be about from local high schools will attend party. The legalities and what to good times whether they are held seminars about Safe Partying to do in an emergency situation, as at home or out and about. If you help students make safe choices well as how to minimise harm are planning a party there are and understand the consequences associated with alcohol. many things you can do in order of violence, bullying and antisocial to keep you and your mates safe.

Drug Action Week is an initiative behaviour.

For more information or to book your spot contact Lindy on 8372 8262 or email ltaeuber@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Voices of the Village Come and celebrate cultural diversity in our community at Voices of the Village on Sunday 27 October 2013.

The annual Voices of the Village event at the Mitcham Cultural Village, 103 Princes Road, Mitcham, will celebrate the many cultures of the City of Mitcham’s community throughout our history and today.

Want to be involved? Expressions of interest from community groups and businesses are welcome.

For more information contact Lindy Taeuber on 8372 8262 or email ltaeuber@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

The free seminars will be held at: Blackwood Football Club, Trevor Terrace, Blackwood When: Tuesday 25 June Time: 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm Contact: 0402 097 389 This event is jointly funded by the City of Mitcham and the Blackwood Football Club.

Blackwood Community Centre, 4 Young Street, Blackwood When: Friday 28 June Time: 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm Contact: 8372 8869

Westbourne Park Community Club, 390 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park When: Thursday 4 July Time: 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm Contact: 8372 8869

PAGE 4 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Learn how to be more Sustainable around the Home Discover how to make your own high quality compost as well as a solar cooker during two sustainability workshops.

Bookings are essential for both workshops. For more details and to book your place contact Andrew Tidswell on 0423 630 065 or email andrew@thetidswells.com The workshops are hosted by Sustainable Communities SA, the City of Mitcham and funded by the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board.

Learn how to make compost

Learn how to make a solar cooker

Recycle your household scraps to create high quality compost for your garden and learn how to put manures, lawn clippings and other waste materials to good use.

Date: Sunday 30 June Location: Picket Fence Community Garden St Marys Church, 1167 South Road, St Marys Time: 2 pm to 4 pm Cost: gold coin donation Afternoon tea will be provided. On registration you will be provided with a list of basic materials to bring.

Understand the principles of free cooking from the sun and learn how to make a solar cooker from simple readily available materials.

Date: Sunday 14 July Location: Mitcham Cultural Village Community Shed 103 Princes Road, Mitcham Time: 10 am to 12 noon Cost: $5 Refreshments will be provided. On registration you will be provided with a list of basic materials to bring.

Sustainability starts with us; the place to start is in our own home.

Is Your Wood Heater Costing You Money?

With winter fast approaching follow these simple tips to prevent air pollution and ensure you get the most out of your wood heater this winter.

It is that time of year again when everyone is trying to keep warm.

Wood heaters that are not properly managed may cause respiratory problems, waste hundreds of dollars a year and harm our environment.

Before using your wood heater inspect flue/chimney for build up of soot, holes or leaks and remove excessive ash.

To ensure your wood heater operates correctly and efficiently:

1. Burn dry, seasoned, untreated wood Dry seasoned wood burns best.

An unseasoned (recently cut) log of firewood can contain about two litres of water. Buying your wood in the summer months from a reputable supplier and storing it properly can save you up to 40% of your operating costs.

Wood from old furniture, pallets or house renovations are not considered appropriate to burn as these materials are often treated.

2. Store your wood in a dry, ventilated area Keep your woodpile stacked in a criss-cross way covered in a wellventilated area so that the wood stays dry.

3. Start small

Remember it is illegal to burn rubbish or green waste material in the open anywhere within the City of Mitcham without obtaining a permit from Council’s Bushfire Prevention Officer. Penalties may apply if you burn in contravention to the EPA Policy and guidelines.

Use smaller dry kindling to get your fire established and larger logs for slower burning. Arrange the logs so that air circulates and better combustion is achieved.

4. Burn brightly When lighting a cold wood heater, make sure that sufficient, dry kindling is used to establish a good flame. Place two or three crumpled sheets of newspaper and small pieces of wood onto the fire load when first lighting the heater. This burns rapidly, heats the flue and gets the draught going. The heater should run on a high burn rate (air controls fully open) for five minutes before and 15 to 20 minutes after adding more logs.

If the heater flue is producing smoke for 20 minutes after lighting or refuelling the fire, simply adjust the fuel load and increase the air settings. The heater’s flue should be cleaned every year to prevent flue fires.

If a neighbour’s wood heater is smoking excessively talk to them about the problem and work together to find a solution. Free mediation services are available from the South Australian Community Legal Centre on 8384 1800.

Burning Permits for Green Waste Material Residents who live in high fire risk areas can apply in writing or on line to Council to obtain a permit, subject to seasonal conditions, to burn green waste material to reduce fuel and hazard reduction in preparation for the next fire season.

Backyard burning is banned throughout the Council area.

The City of Mitcham received an exemption under the Environment Protection Authority (Burning) Policy 1994 to allow burning for the purpose of fire prevention in Council’s high fire prone areas outside the fire danger season.

Residents who live in Council’s high fire risk areas can apply to obtain a permit to burn green waste material to reduce fuel and hazard reduction in preparation for the next fire season.

The process for obtaining a burning permit has changed!

Residents will be able to: 1. Apply for a burning permit on line at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au 2. By visiting the Customer Service Centre at 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

3. Call 8372 8888 to have the information and application sent to them.

To obtain a permit: 1. You must live in Council’s high fire risk area.

2. You must be conducting fuel and hazard reduction work.

3. Material to be burnt must only be green waste (no rubbish).

4. Material must be dry and ready to burn.

For more practical advice on the effective and efficient use of wood heaters contact the Environment Protection Authority SA on 8204 2000 or the City of Mitcham on 8372 8888.

5. Material must be hard to remove eg down in a gully or inaccessible by car.

6. You must apply in writing, read and agree to all conditions of the permit.

7. Permits will be issued between 3-10 days to allow for all applications to be inspected and approved.

8. Have your property inspected by Council’s Fire Prevention Officer.

9. You must adhere to all of the conditions on the permit.

10. Permits will only be issued after the Fire Danger Season.

(1 May, subject to CFS advice and weather conditions) until it becomes too dangerous to burn in November (subject to weather conditions).

Visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au to obtain a burning permit application or contact the Bushfire Prevention Officer on 8372 8894.

PAGE 5 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Upcoming Work in Your Street

Road Works Council’s road rehabilitation and overlay works have been completed in:

Kerbing Construction Council’s kerb and watertable replacement works have been completed in: Adelaide Terrace, St Marys Bellavista Avenue, Clapham Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield Chelmsford Avenue, Mitcham Kentucky Avenue, Panorama Lisburne Avenue, Mitcham Magdalene Terrace, St Marys Marion Street, Melrose Park Northbrook Avenue, Mitcham Council’s kerb and watertable replacement works are currently underway in: Belair Road, Kingswood Hillside Road, Springfield

Stormwater Construction Council’s stormwater drainage construction works have recently been completed in: Blythewood Road, Mitcham Chelmsford Avenue, Mitcham Lisburne Avenue, Mitcham Northbrook Avenue, Mitcham University Way, Bellevue Heights Council’s stormwater drainage construction works programmed for May and June are: Suffolk Road and Goldney Grove, Hawthorndene Batchelor Reserve, Westbourne Park Argyll Walk, Bellevue Heights

Ayr Avenue Bridge Replacement Work to replace the Ayr Avenue road bridge, situated near the Ardeer Road and Ayr Avenue intersection is underway.

The new bridge, designed to meet the flow capacity of Brown Hill Creek, will no longer require a load limit. The bridge will have upgraded handrails, will be wider to improve footpaths and road width for added pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle safety and will improve the alignment of Brown Hill Creek. Concept designs have been finalised.

As a result of concerns being raised regarding traffic conditions in the vicinity of the bridge Council has approved deferral of the construction of replacement into the 2013/2014 works programme.

Brown Hill Creek Work is underway to relocate Brown Hill Creek around the Goodwood Road Rail Grade Separation.

Adelaide Terrace, Pasadena Babbage Lane, Pasadena Bellavista Avenue, Clapham Belleview Avenue, Panorama Birksgate Drive, Urrbrae Branson Avenue, Pasadena Brookman Avenue, St Marys Cambridge Terrace, Kingswood Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield Centre Way, Belair Chancery Lane, Hawthorndene Chelmsford Avenue, Mitcham Comaun Street, St Marys Flinders Drive, Bedford Park Gamma Crescent, Panorama Hope Street, Daw Park Kegworth Road, Melrose Park Kiana Street, St Marys Lisburne Avenue, Mitcham Magdalene Terrace, Pasadena Manfull Street, Melrose Park Marion Street, Melrose Park Monomeeth Court, Hawthorndene Myrtle Road, Hawthorndene Nama Drive, Hawthorndene Northbrook Avenue, Mitcham Paul Street, St Marys Pony Ridge, Belair Scroop Road, Hawthorndene Southern Avenue, St Marys Springbank Road, Clapham Sturt Avenue, Hawthorndene The Grove, Lower Mitcham Thorngate Drive, Belair Tutt Avenue, Kingswood Winchester Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens Winding Way, Belair Yulinda Terrace, Lower Mitcham Council’s road rehabilitation and overlay works are underway in: Kentucky Avenue, Panorama Council’s road rehabilitation and overlay works programmed for May and June are: Francis Street, Bedford Park Olave Hill Road, Hawthorndene

Traffic Management Road safety projects are underway including: Clapham - development of traffic management plans for part of the Panorama and Clapham area. A public consultation process is under way for more information visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Blackwood - traffic management investigation at Blackwood.

Traffic data collection process is continuing.

Edward Street School Crossing relocation of the school crossing on Edward Street is nearing completion.

Footpath Construction Paving works recently completed: Belair Road, Torrens Park Brighton Parade, Blackwood Byrne Avenue, Glenalta Cross Road, Urrbrae Derwent Street, Cumberland Park Elm Street, Hawthorndene Gladys Street, Clarence Gardens Goodwood Road, Panorama Grange Road, Hawthorn Gulfview Road, Blackwood Hilda Street, Clarence Gardens Jose Street, Melrose Park Kingston Avenue, Daw Park Lochwinnoch Road (Princes Road to Fife Avenue), Torrens Park Main Road, Blackwood Mathias Avenue, Cumberland Park Moriane Avenue, Panorama Ottawa Avenue, Panorama Penang Avenue, Melrose Park Rankeys Hill Road, Hawthorndene Rowell Road, Melrose Park Rugby Street, Kingswood Walkway (Strathcona/Boucat), Panorama Walsh Avenue, St Marys West Parkway, Colonel Light Gardens Paving works underway: Belair Road, Kingswood Bellavista Avenue, Clapham East Parkway, Colonel Light Gardens Port Lincoln Boulevard, Pasadena Sturt Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens Paving works programmed for May and June: Coromandel Parade, Coromandel Valley Lochwinnoch Road, (Barrelder Avenue to Windsor Drive), Torrens Park Narinna Avenue, Cumberland Park

Retaining Wall Construction Replacement of the retaining wall on Coromandel Parade, Coromandel Valley, and the reconstruction of the failed retaining wall on Grand Boulevard, Craigburn Farm, are programmed to commence in June.

Further information about the infrastructure program is available at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/goto/budget

PAGE 6 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Dog and Cat Management Plan 2012 – 2017 The Animal Management Plan will guide the City of Mitcham’s management of dogs and cats over the next five years.

The Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 requires all Councils in South Australia to have a five year plan for the management of dogs and cats.

What are Council’s Responsibilities?

The City of Mitcham’s is responsible for managing dogs and cats including: Registration and identification of dogs and cats.

Dog attacks.

Dogs that are wandering at large.

Excessive barking.

Defecation of dogs in public places.

Specific duties relating to certain dogs.

Seizure and detention of dogs.

Assisting residents to resolve issues re nuisance cats and promoting ‘Responsible Cat Ownership’.

Requirements in relation to the preparation of the Dog and Cat Management Plan.

The power of Councils to make by-laws for the control or management of dogs or cats within its area.

Dogs are required to be on a leash, not more than two metres in length, in a public place (roads, streets, footpaths etc) except in a park or reserve. In a park or reserve, a dog needs to be under effective control by voice command, in close proximity of the owner and in sight of the owner at all times. Councils can introduce a by-law to vary the requirements that apply in its parks and reserves.

Dog and Cat Management Plan The Dog and Cat Management Plan aims to: Encourage responsible dog and cat ownership.

Reduce nuisance caused by dogs and cats and their impacts on the environment.

Reduce the threat to public safety from dog attacks and dangerous dogs.

Provide facilities and services that meet the needs of pet owners.

The Plan, developed after consultation with the community, is structured according to nine Key Results Areas with action plans that detail the actions Council will undertake over the next five years to achieve Council’s animal management objectives.

1. Increasing Registration and Microchipping

2. Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership

To increase the number of registered and micro-chipped dogs and cats in the City.

All cats and dogs in Mitcham are required to be registered annually.

Cats are also required to be microchipped. Whilst dogs are not required to be micro-chipped, Council encourages all dog owners to do so.

Council will: Undertake a media campaign and doorknock program to all parts of the municipality.

Continue to hold micro-chipping days.

Investigate the use of SMS text messaging to remind pet owners to re-register their pets.

To implement appropriate education activities designed to achieve responsible pet ownership.

Council provides information on responsible pet ownership on its website and will introduce a responsible pet education program in primary schools.

Council will: Introduce responsible pet education program to all primary schools in the Council area.

Visit each primary school.

Continue the current cat education program.

Develop a Code of Conduct in relation to Dogs in Public Places.

Implement the Code of Conduct.

Investigate the use of social media and SMS messaging in animal management education programs.

Undertake a review of all education material provided by Council for currency, changed circumstances, consistency across all platforms and gaps. Check all weblinks.

Visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au of the Dog and Cat Management Plan

3. Protecting the Community from Dog Attacks and Dangerous Dogs To minimise the risk of dog attacks to the community.

Council continues to work toward reducing the risk and responding to attacks including dogs that attack, harass, chase or otherwise endanger the health of a person or animal.

Council will: Maintain current initiatives to reduce dog attacks.

4. Managing Dogs in Public Places To ensure the requirements relating to dogs and their access to public places are appropriate for the City of Mitcham and are adhered to by dog owners.

Council continues to respond to all reports of dogs wandering at large to ensure the community is safe. It also will continue to educate the community about dogs in public places in particular users of Council’s parks and reserves and where dogs can be taken and exercised off the leash as well as the rights and responsibilities of all users.

Council will: Consider a review of dog access requirements in all future park master plans.

Develop a maintenance plan and budget for CC Hood Dog Park.

Consider establishing a second dog park in Mitcham Council area.

PAGE 7 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

for a copy n 2012 - 2017

5. Managing Barking Dogs To ensure the requirements relating to barking dogs are appropriate for the City of Mitcham and are adhered to by dog owners.

In relation to barking dogs, Council provides a range of information on its website to assist people to reduce the incidence of problem barking and can assist in helping dog owners to resolve barking problems.

Council will; Review and update as appropriate Council’s information and procedures for dealing with problem barking.

6. Managing Cats To continue to manage cats as appropriate for the City of Mitcham.

All cats are required to be registered and micro-chipped. Council will continue to educate the community to encourage responsible pet ownership.

Council will: Prepare a clear Position Description for Council’s Cat Management Officer that provides objectives and priorities of the role and activities to be undertaken.

Undertake community consultation in relation to cat management.

7. Caring for Lost and Unwanted Pets

8. Training Animal Management Officers

9. Implementing the Plan

To reduce the number of stray, lost and abandoned dogs and cats.

To increase the number of unwanted animals that are re-homed or reunited with their owner.

The number of unwanted dogs and cats entering shelters each year remains high due to unwanted litters, lack of identification and inadequate confinement. Some animals are also relinquished.

Council will: Continue to promote dog and cat registration, micro-chipping, desexing and confinement to reduce the number of lost, unowned and unwanted animals.

Promote the re-homing of unwanted animals from animal shelters through information on Council’s website and other means.

To ensure all staff involved in animal management have the knowledge and skills to carry out their responsibilities.

Council staff are appropriately qualified and experienced to carry out required roles and responsibilities. Council has a commitment to ongoing training and education of staffing in accordance with industry standards.

Council will: Complete a skills audit for Council’s compliance unit staff and produce a gap analysis of skills.

Schedule animal management officers skills training.

To ensure the Plan is implemented as effectively as possible.

To ensure the Plan continues to reflect current priorities.

Council will ensure the effective implementation of the Plan.

Council will: Obtain the Board’s approval of the Plan.

Assign responsibility for implementing the Plan to a nominated Council officer.

Establish an internal project team and meet six monthly.

Identify data requirements and establish a framework for recording the data required.

Conduct an annual review and report on the Plan’s currency, implementation and performance against KPIs.

PAGE 8 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

From your Elected Members Celebrating History

Mayor Michael Picton • Celebrating History • Budget • Volunteers Thank You • Wish List – Elections

Telephone: 0417 812 546 mpicton@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

History Month has provided a great opportunity to learn about the past in the Mitcham Council area. ‘About Time 2013’ showcased a wide range of events across the Council area. The launch of the Blackwood Historical Walk brochure was an exciting way to highlight the history of early Blackwood, planned in 1879 in response to the proposed railway line completed in 1883. Mitcham is rich in history and we are fortunate to have preserved much of our heritage. Congratulations to Therese Willis and the Heritage Team at the Mitcham Cultural Village for hosting and putting together such a fantastic program for this year’s History Month.

It was fitting for Mitcham that History Month is held in May. Mitcham Council celebrated 160 years since the Proclamation of the formation of the District Council on May 12 1853. Mitcham was the first district Council in the state. How things have changed in those 160 years! Back in 1853 there were only 3,000 people living in Mitcham, with three schools but there were 12 public houses/hotels. Today we have over 65,000 people living in Mitcham with over 40 education

Boorman Ward Cr Leeanne Moriarty • Footpaths • Netherby Reserve • Street Trees • Voices of the Village

Telephone: 8379 3797 lmoriarty@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

facilities and only four hotels. Our priorities have certainly changed!

These savings and efficiencies made now will allow Council to make significant investments in new or enhanced services in the years to come while allowing it to remain within sustainable financial borrowing limits that have previously been set.

On a personal note, May 2013 is the tenth year since I became an Elected Member at Mitcham. It has been an honour to represent the people of Mitcham, firstly as a Ward Councillor and more recently as the Mayor of this great City. I look forward to serving Mitcham residents for many years to come.

Budget Council is set to adopt the 2013/2014 budget early in July.

Emphasis this past year has been in working to return the Council budget to surplus by 2014/2015.

This will be a significant turnaround from the deficit adopted in the 2012/2013 budget. Council is committed to achieving this while also addressing its infrastructure backlog and continuing to provide quality services for residents. In the last 12 months over $650,000 in savings have been found by critically looking at operations and finding efficiencies within the organisation while not impacting on service delivery. This exploration of Council operations will continue with further savings already identified as part of the current draft budget for the next financial year.

Often we do not know how lucky we are in Mitcham. Recently, I had to go to the lovely Italian city of Milan, for work. While the buildings were wonderful, the footpaths were consistently full of holes, crumbling edges and raised pavers, that I stumbled on frequently – even in ‘sensible‘ shoes! While I understand not all of Mitcham’s footpaths are perfect, I must admit I appreciated the ones I used in our Ward, the day I got home and took my dogs for a walk – stumble free!

I am happy to see improvements happening at Netherby Reserve lately, after community consultation and the creation of a Master Plan for the park. New seats are being

Gault Ward Cr Chris Adcock • Community Groups • Brown Hill Creek Matters • Budget • For the Common Good

There are always need for more volunteers and, at the moment, especially deliverers. The task is not difficult and is most rewarding.

If that does not fit in with your particular talents, there are plenty of other spots which need to be filled.

Contact Mitcham Meals on Wheels to enquire about volunteering.

Telephone: 0428 724 315

Brown Hill Creek Matters

cadcock@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Community Groups One very special aspect of being an elected member of Council is that we are able to represent Council as members of the various community groups. One such group I have the privilege of being a part, is Mitcham Meals on Wheels. This year marks the 50th year which it has been in operation and the AGM will be an opportunity for past and present members and volunteers to celebrate.

As a part of the upgrading of Brown Hill Creek to overcome potential flooding, Council is preparing a concept plan for the section of the creek between Angas Road and Kent Street and includes the Soldiers Memorial Reserve, Delwood Reserve and JWS Morris Reserve. It is still only a concept and yet to be sent out for public consultation. If it gains support, it will be developed over a number of years.

Budget Once again we have the daunting task of trying to produce a budget which provides services to the

Council has identified that further investment needs to be made in stormwater infrastructure improvements across the City and to the completion of the Mountain Bike Trails program that Council initiated a number of years ago.

Volunteers Thank You We are fortunate that so many people in Mitcham volunteer by giving freely of their time and expertise to others. Council will this year show its appreciation to our wonderful group of volunteers by hosting a film screening at the Wallis Theatre at Mitcham on Thursday 6 June. This year, apart from seeing the film ‘Gatsby’ and enjoying a special morning tea, local radio star Peter Goers will be a guest speaker who is set to entertain everyone. If you think you may like to help out and assist Council please phone Melissa Jensen on 8372 8860 to find out what is available. We presently have over 300 volunteers helping in over 30 different areas

installed, rubbish bins are being relocated and new trees are being planted.

Speaking of trees, it is a joy to see the newly planted street trees in our Ward, starting to flourish and grow – especially along Princes Road.

I thank those residents who have been giving them an extra drink on the hot days. I am sure they will continue to grow and eventually give us a wonderful avenue of leafy shade.

Looking ahead, I encourage you to pencil in your diary, the Mitcham Cultural Village’s annual Voices of the Village event. This year it has a wonderful multicultural theme

whole community and allows for future eventualities which sometimes have a significance to them. My position is that there are many in our community on fixed incomes, and although there are many conflicting priorities, Council must be aware of these constraints.

I believe that the guide which should be used is the CPI which has risen approximately 2.2%. There are other influences which I apply such as the imposts of State and Federal Government. This year there are additional items which will add another 2% to the rates without any provision to cover the cost to Council.

In spite of this, Council’s significant infrastructure backlog is of enormous concern and needs to be resolved. There are important projects which need to be progressed in order to keep the community safe including stormwater, road, footpath and horticultural maintenance works.

Council is making efficiency gains

throughout Council. Volunteering is a great way of helping others and giving something back to the community. If you are a volunteer in the community thank you for all your hard work and dedication – it is very much appreciated.

Wish List – Elections Often I have requests from Mitcham residents to consider improvements to our roads and community facilities such as libraries, sporting clubrooms and their grounds.

While they are seen as local issues they can be progressed when partnerships with other levels of government are made.

Council has identified a number of key projects it would like our Federal and State elected candidates to consider in the upcoming elections. The re-alignment of the Daws/Springbank and Goodwood Roads intersection, greater use of the Women’s Memorial Playing Fields and the redevelopment of the Blackwood Library are high on our list of projects that we would like addressed.

and is going to be on Sunday October 27, 2013. Keep an eye out for further information in the next Mitcham Community News and future Messenger newspapers. As a member of the Mitcham Cultural Village Committee, along with my Co-Councillor, Judith Weaver, I have seen some of the planned activities, like a selection of multicultural food stalls, dancing demonstrations from different countries and many items for sale with an international ‘flavour’. I have every faith it will be a tremendous day for Mitcham residents to enjoy.

which assist but it will be a long process.

For the Common Good The Common Good means that which is in the interest or wellbeing of the whole community. The common good will provide a better quality of life for the majority rather than just a few. I believe that the reason we have Local Government is so that we are able, and should, serve the common good. Sometimes Elected Members are taken to task for having voted in a particular way with which a resident does not agree. I hope that we as Elected Members always act in the interest of the entire community - that is that they should work for “The Common Good”. I believe that, as Elected Members, we are there to serve the community which also requires us to make decisions which some may not agree with, but I believe is in the interests of the whole of the City of Mitcham.

Contacting Your Elected Member Mayor Mayor Michael Picton 0417 812 546

Babbage Ward Cr. David Munro 0403 161 462 Cr Brett Hearne 0415 150 101

Boorman Ward Cr. Leanne Moriarty 8379 3797 Cr. Judith Weaver 8357 7522

Craigburn Ward Cr. Nick Greer 7420 9808 Cr. Elaine Grimm 8370 0025 Cr. Jane Silbereisen 0477 209 782

Gault Ward Cr. Chris Adcock 0428 724 315 Cr. Stephen Fisher 8272 6116

Overton Ward Cr. Yvonne Poland 0416 773 973 Cr. John Sanderson 0402 517 945

The Park Ward Cr. Tim Hein 0403 080 080 Cr. Mark Ward 0458 112 358

PAGE 9 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

The Park Ward Cr Tim Hein • Budget • Street Sweeping • Blackwood Master Plan

Telephone: 0403 080 080 thein@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Having just been elected by the residents of The Park Ward in January, I am finding it an enormous privilege to serve as an Elected Member. There has been much to learn, and I am loving the opportunity to engage more fully in the variety of issues in our community.

Craigburn Ward Cr Jane Silbereisen • Brown Hill and Keswick Creek Stormwater Management Project • Budget • Draft Strategic Directions • Balyana Pool • Blackwood Safety and Security Program

Telephone: 0477 209 782 jsilbereisen@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au Council continues its focus on important local issues and has been working consistently to improve resources and services to our community including the future planning of our city. We work

Babbage Ward Cr Brett Hearne • Balyana Pool • Magdalene Terrace • Budget

Telephone: 0415 150 010 bhearne@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

It is a stimulating responsibility, not only because of the significant matters before Council, but also because of the enormous potential within the City of Mitcham and the enthusiasm of so many fellow residents for our local communities.

My fellow Councillors have already elected me to the Audit Committee and the CEO Performance Review Committee.

Council has faced some significant financial issues, including a history of deficit budgets. I am pleased to say our new budget will enable us to finally break-even by 2014/2015 financial year, and I believe should build a sustainable, prudent financial future for Mitcham.

One of my initial acts following the election was to inquire about the increased amount of leaf and

We don’t just live our lives in our own residence, but rather in and through the many things we share.

And life is richer for it.

The invitation is for all of us to piece together a shared vision of Mitcham not just for ourselves, but also each other. This will be my focus.

I am very committed to seeing some real renewal in the Blackwood town centre, and have already initiated a budget allocation for a Blackwood Master Plan. Although this was frustratingly lost by just one vote on this occasion, I shall continue to work hard to see this eventuate.

It has been a time of some recent change for our family also, moving to a house in Meadow Avenue, Hawthorndene.

I do consider it an honour to represent the residents of Belair, Blackwood, Glenalta, Hawthorndene, Upper Sturt and Crafers West, in service to the whole City of Mitcham.

I have also been working closely with advocates for a Community Garden.

I am acutely aware that as a Council we have a duty not only to our

constantly with the community with the aim of bringing positive solutions to the issues put before it.

management staff on the excellent work they have achieved to this end.

The Brown Hill and Keswick Creek Stormwater project Management Master Plan has received support from neighbouring councils and has finally been endorsed by the State Government’s Stormwater Management Authority.

The Draft Strategic Directions Report has been developed, including input from the council wide community consultation and presented to Council.

Council have spent many months preparing for the 2013/2014 Budget.

Important issues for the current budget have been to balance a commitment to resolve the deficit by 2015 in addition to ensuring much needed maintenance to valuable council properties is addressed while keeping rate increases to a minimum. Reducing our deficit has required ensuring the most efficient and effective use of council resources. We commend the expertise and dedication of financial

I would like to thank those who voted in the Babbage Ward Supplementary Election. I am grateful for the overwhelming support I have received.

Further, I thank my family and friends for their continual support now and into the future.

In relation to Balyana Pool, I raised questions with administration at the last Full Council Meeting on 23 April 2013. The questions addressed the possibility of Mitcham Council becoming caretaker of the pool to prolong its closure. Administration explained that in any event, this was not a viable option due to time constraints. Administration emphasised that seven days would

Community Ward Forum for Babbage Ward Community Ward Forums provide an opportunity for residents to meet with Elected Members, find out more about your ward, ask questions and talk about local issues. Residents are invited to attend the: Community Forum for Babbage Ward (Bedford Park, Panorama, Pasadena and St Marys) 7 pm, Monday 24 June City of Mitcham Mayor’s Parlour, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park.

Residents are invited to submit questions prior to the forum to ensure that the topic can be addressed on the night. Questions should be made in writing and: Be sent to Council at least one week prior to the forum.

Include the resident’s contact details should any clarification of the question need to be sought.

Be addressed to: Governance Officer, Virginia Fisher PO Box 21 Mitcham Shopping Centre Torrens Park SA 5062 or by email: mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

heritage, but also to our future.

What kind of community are we helping shape?

bark throughout the Mitcham hills streets. A subsequent review by administration revealed that the dry conditions had indeed increased the drop, and our contractors have been asked to increase the number of machines used. Sweeping is now back to a far more agreeable standard.

this issue and discussions are still in progress.

Council have been requested to conduct a consultation of local commercial premises in the Blackwood district on a special rate that would fund the operating costs of the Blackwood Safety and Security Program for the future – a combined CCTV and Guard program. This will be undertaken in May and June 2013.

I continue to work toward gaining support for a much needed community garden for our local hills residents who are so passionate about progressing this initiative.

We have two newly elected Councillors. Tim Hein represents The Park Ward and Brett Hearne joined council in April representing the Babbage Ward. We welcome both new Councillors and look forward to working closely with them in support of local issues and Mitcham’s vision for the future.

Council have been advised of the enormous response from the community to try to mitigate the planned closure of the Balyana Pool.

The pool has been such a valuable resource to many groups in Mitcham in particular those benefiting from the disability friendly facilities and for learn to swim groups who have used this facility for decades.

Council is assisting where it can on

Please do not hesitate to call me with your concerns at any time.

rates low. One way we can ensure that these spectrums are met is by promoting Council efficiency by finding ways to save costs.

Effective cost management will be important in reducing the deficit. If we are able to enforce effective cost management procedures this should in turn keep rates low.

not be enough time to legally become the pools caretaker. While Balyana has very disappointingly closed, I will continue to work towards a workable solution for the former users.

Magdalene Terrace is another interesting issue, the matter is returning to Council in the near future. The community will have an opportunity to have their say about the two properties in question. I encourage all those concerned to raise those issues in the consultation.

An issue of particular importance to Babbage residents is the Daws, Goodwood and Springbank Road intersection. Due to recent approvals in the chamber, the Council will be asking for Federal and State Funding for the project.

The topic on everyone’s lips at the moment is the all important Budget!

As a business we face the issue of providing services and keeping

CUMBERLAND PARK

CLARENCE GARDENS

RTON

OVE

DAW PARK

MELROSE PARK

PASADENA

WESTBOURNE PARK

HAWTHORN

URRBRAE

KINGSWOOD NETHERBY

T GAUL

COLONEL LIGHT GARDENS

Once again, I appreciate your support.

LEAWOOD GARDENS

SPRINGFIELD

LOWER TORRENS MITCHAM PARK

CLAPHAM

MAN

BOOR BROWNHILL CREEK

MITCHAM

BELAIR

PANORAMA LYNTON

BAGE

BAB

ARK THE P

ST MARYS

GLENALTA EDEN HILLS

N

GBUR

CRAI

BEDFORD PARK

BLACKWOOD

BELLEVUE HEIGHTS

For more information call 8372 8888.

HAWTHORNDENE

CRAIGBURN FARM

COROMANDEL VALLEY

UPPER STURT

CRAFERS WEST

PAGE 10 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Mitcham Community Calendar community groups Mitcham Kiwanis Meet on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Marion Sports Centre, Sturt Road, Marion.

Call 8374 3694.

Westbourne Park Community Club Join the fun at the Westbourne Park Community Club at 390 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park. Enjoy social indoor bowls every Saturday and social bingo each Monday with all activities starting at 1 pm. All welcome call 8271 3290.

Blackwood Action Group Meet on the third Monday of each month at the Blackwood Community RSL Club, 1 Brighton Parade commencing at 7.30 pm. Call 8370 3006.

BLACKWOOD Hills VIEW Club Invites women to have fun and meet new friends at their monthly luncheon meeting at Belair Park Country Club on Monday 17 June at 10 am. Celebrating Blackwood Hills VIEW Club’s 6th birthday. Lunch booking essential. Call 8370 2528.

get fit/social activities Westbourne Park Ladies Probus Club Friendship Day on Monday 24 June at 10 am at Uniting Church Hall, corner Sussex Street and Monmouth Road, Westbourne Park. Lots of fun, friendship and fellowship with entertainment by the Esprit Female Barbershop Quartet. Call 8293 8863.

Yoga Garage Tune up your mind, body and soul at Yoga Garage at the Belair Community Centre. Strengthen and lengthen the body whilst calming the nervous system and steadying the mind. General classes, kids yoga, restorative and men’s yoga classes held Tuesday - Saturday every week. First class free. Mats provided.

Call Karen on 0412 820 886 or email yogagarage@yahoo.com.au French for kids

Picket Fence Community Garden The garden has a great range of raised, modular and vertical garden boxes for only $10 to grow a good variety of vegetable, herb and flowers. Vegetables grown in the garden are sold at the Picket Fence Community Centre, 1167 South Road, St Marys, to people on low income on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Volunteers are always welcome.

Drop in on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays from 9 am to 3 pm or call 0478 455 334.

Men at the Centre a program open to men of all ages from 6.30 pm to 9 pm every third Tuesday of the month. $6 for pizza tea. Call 8276 2541. Friendship every Wednesday during school terms at 10 am. Come and learn a craft or just enjoy a chat. Morning tea provided. $2 donation. Drop in each Saturday from 9.30 am to 1 pm to the Ye Olde Village Shoppe and Meeting Place to purchase second-hand and new goods including clothing, books, brica-brac, toys, shoes and home-made jams and pickles. Call 8278 8259 or visit 103a Princes Road, Mitcham.

community events Holiday Soccer Camp

Mitcham Prostate Cancer Support Group Come along to discuss health issues and listen to guest speaker Dr Nathan Harten Phd ESSAM AEP from iNform Health and Fitness Solutions on Thursday 27 June at 7 pm at the Colonel Light Gardens RSL Club, 4 Prince George Parade, Colonel Light Gardens. Call 8277 2138 or visit www.psamitcham.org.

Mitcham Village Uniting Church

Children from 2 to 6 years are invited to join native speaker, Olivia for activities, music and games all immersed in a French environment at 3.45 pm on Wednesday at Mitcham Cultural Village. Email melanie.sophie@lcfclubs.com.au, visit www.lcfclubs.com.au or call 0466 494 797.

Rapid Sculpt Fitness Enjoy a range of morning and evening classes including Pilates, Zumba and Rapid Sculpt at the Mitcham Village Institute, Mitcham Cultural Village, Princes Road, Mitcham. All ages welcome. Call Leonie on 0407 668 676 or email nicholas4@adam.com.au

Improve your soccer skills and make new friends at the Ambassadors Soccer Camp from the 9 to 12 July at The Parks Playing Fields, Hawthorn (Corner of Cross and Belair Roads).

Boys and Girls aged 7 to 12 years enjoy games, skills sessions, competitions and World Cup tournaments. $120 (scholarships and early bird discounts available). Visit www.soccercamps.org.au to register.

Each player receives soccer ball, camp T-shirt, certificate, camp photo and team talk booklet.

Gallery One Art Exhibition Gallery One invites you to a ‘behind the curtain’ view of its boutique exhibition ‘Froth & Scandal’. Come and have a peek every Tuesday to Thursday, 10 am to 4.30 pm from 11 to 28 June. Artists were asked to have fun and think – everybody’s idea of a scandal is different. Gallery One, 1 Torrens Street, Mitcham – located within the Mitcham Cultural Village. For enquiries phone 8272 4504 or email info@galleryone.org.au.

Children’s Picnic Come and enjoy games, fun and fellowship, a free sausage sizzle and more at the Picket Fence, 1167 South Road, St Marys on Wednesday 17 July from 10 am to 2 pm. Call 8374 2522.

Rotary Club of Blackwood Art and Photography Show Help us celebrate 30 years! If you paint or take photographs then consider putting in an entry. You could win one of the prestigious prizes. If you like art and photography and want to see the best on offer in Blackwood then come along to one of the open sessions between 11 to 21 July.

Entries close Friday 21 June.

Visit http://www.rotarynews.info/ club3788 or https://www.facebook. com/RotaryClubBlackwood or call 0417 312 853.

Annual Camellia Show Countless blooms are on display and plants are for sale at the Camellia’s South Australia Inc annual Camellia Show at Carrick Hill, 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield on Saturday 10 August from noon to 4.30 pm and Sunday 11 August from 10 am to 4.30 pm. Free admission to the Camellia Show and Carrick Hill grounds. Call 8295 6563 or 0419 815 035.

Women’s All Day Retreat Women of all ages are invited to come and be refreshed, renewed and restored on Saturday 22 June from 9.30 am to 4 pm at the Blackwood Hills Baptist Church, 72 Coromandel Parade, Blackwood.

Guest Speakers: Carolyn Atkinson, Julia Taylor along with guest artists Daniella, Edith Van Loon, Burundian African Gospel Choir. $20 / $15 concession (includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea). Call 0400 860 988.

Men’s Breakfast Enjoy a continental breakfast with guest speaker Garry Parker on Saturday 20 July at 7.30 am at the Blackwood Hills Baptist Church, 72 Coromandel Parade, Blackwood.

Garry is a Youth Pastor, Chaplain, Young Adult Facilitator and author who has a real passion for fostering and journeying with young people. $8 or $5 concession. To book your seat email jodiemick@adam.com.au or call 0403 656 537.

Fun Multi Sports at the Blackwood Community Recreation Centre Children can have fun and develop multi sport and gross motor skills to: Learn skills from common sports.

Fundamental Motor Skill Development.

Fun non competitive environment.

Age appropriate classes.

Programs start from 1.5 years to 8 years old.

Develop social skills and meet new friends.

Call 8278 8833, email contactus@blackwoodrec.com.au or visit www.blackwoodrec.com.au for more information.

Belair Scout Group Celebrating 60 Years of Scouting More than 120 Scouts, old and young celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Belair Scout Group in April.

Scouts and visitors enjoyed some of the outdoor activities Scouts revel in such as testing their skills on a rope bridge and kayaking on an improvised pond along with musical entertainment, a sausage sizzle and birthday cake.

As part of the celebrations the newly renovated Scout Hall was officially opened by the Scouts SA Chief Commissioner Chris Bates, with three young Scout members Ben, Caitlin and Oliver. The George Waye Hall has a new kitchen, meeting rooms, Leaders’ den and storerooms thanks to a team of dedicated parents.

The Belair Scout Group has over 80 girls and boys in Joeys, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers, aged from 6 to 18. If you are interested in becoming a Scout at Belair call Nicola on 0412 708 940.

Left: Cutting the ribbon on the new hall were the Scouts SA Chief Commissioner Chris Bates helped by Scout Caitlin (centre) and Cubs Ben and Oliver.

PAGE 11 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

How Your City Looks Today The City of Mitcham continues to improve local infrastructure throughout the City.

Local Roads and Footpaths in the City of Mitcham In 2012/2013 the City of Mitcham improved 91 local roads by laying approximately 18,000 tonnes of asphalt to 41 streets and rejuvenating 77,000m2 of roads.

Mitcham Council has paved 32 streets with over 22,000m2 of paving.

This included an additional nine local roads and an additional footpath due to the efficient delivery of Council’s programs.

Mitcham’s New Street Trees The City of Mitcham has begun planting more than 1,100 street trees this winter to improve tree avenues and beautify our streetscapes adding value to homes and neighbourhoods.

New street trees and avenues are planted to replace those that are in poor condition, have been lost due to natural causes, vehicle accidents, pests and disease, or through development.

Avenues or individual trees are replaced to maintain amenity and

the health of the local environment.

Streets are selected based on the health and condition of existing trees, current tree maintenance requirements, civil works, risk and public safety considerations and streetscape amenity.

Flinders Drive Flinders Drive, between South Road and University Drive, was resurfaced at a cost of $750,000 with funding assistance from the Special Local Roads Program.

Council, to minimise disruption to the hospital, University and local residents, undertook the work at night over a two week period in February.

The asphalt was laid in four designed layers up to a maximum depth of 210mm. 4,010 tonnes of asphalt was placed on Flinders Drive as part of this project, averaging 500 tonnes per night.

Mary MacKillop’s Life in Mitcham Recognised The life and activities of Saint Mary MacKillop in Mitcham was commemorated in stone last October.

Two stone cairns, crafted by a local stone mason Jose Paim Bruges, used local stone recovered from a demolished church at Scotch College.

The cairns, approximately one metre in height, are topped with brass plaques with historical references about Mary MacKillop.

For more information about the commemorative plaques contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Urrbrae Wetland Maintenance During April, just over 192 tonnes of silt and sediments was removed from one of the main basins at Urrbrae Wetland.

The basin, located adjacent to Cross Road west of Urrbrae Agricultural High School, was dried to allow the material to be removed.

The sediments had low-level contamination of copper, zinc and hydrocarbons requiring the silt to be disposed of to a controlled landfill.

Streets included in the 2013 avenue restoration are:

Grey Box Grassy Woodland

Street

Suburb

Species

The City of Mitcham is recovering Grey Box Grassy Woodland in the Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges.

Council, with funding from the Federal Government Caring for Country Grant, has rehabilitated 67 hectares of bushland in Ashby Reserve, Blackwood Hill Reserve, Magpie Gully, Mt Batten Reserve and Randell Park.

The bushcare work undertaken on the reserves, in partnership with University of Adelaide, National Parks and Wildlife SA, National Trust of SA, City of Onkaparinga and SA Water, includes clearing weeds of national significance such as Boneseed, Bridal Creeper and Blackberry in important bush environment of remnant Grey Box grassy woodlands.

Maitland Avenue / Taylors Road

Mitcham

Claret Ash

Finlayson Street

Netherby

Dwarf Claret Ash

Grange Road

Westbourne Park, Hawthorn, Lower Mitcham

Jacaranda

Samson Avenue

Westbourne Park

Jacaranda and Purple-Leaved Plum

Crozier Avenue

Melrose Park

Golden Rain and Chinese Pistachio

Morgan Avenue

Melrose Park/Daw Park Golden Rain

Winston Avenue

Clarence Gardens

Golden Rain and Southern Hackberry

Abbotshall Road

Hawthorn

Claret Ash (Fraxinus angustifolia ‘Raywood’)

Wheaton Road

Melrose Park

Wilga

Rothesay Avenue

St Marys

Callery Pear

Ragless Street

St Marys

Wilga

Walsh Avenue

St Marys

Golden Rain

Stanlake Avenue

St Marys

South Australian Blue Gum

Land Improvement Grants The City of Mitcham has continued to assist property owners to improve their land through grants.

Land Improvement grants, of approximately $25,000, have assisted 10 landholders in the Mitcham hills to purchase equipment and to control weeds.

Property owners, with the assistance of Council and specialists, have purchased equipment and tools, plants and herbicide as well as provided funds to undertake weed control.

Landholders, who receive the grant, enter into a long term Land Management Agreement with Council.

PAGE 12 Mitcham Community News JUNE 2013

Which bin for plastics?

Unwanted TVs – Don’t panic, don’t dump!

Did you know that only rigid plastic containers can be recycled in your yellow recycling bin!

Rigid plastic containers, or those that hold their shape, can be recycled in the yellow recycling bin. Don’t forget to remove the lids which can also be recycled, just place them in a plastic milk bottle and once the bottle is full put it in the recycling bin. For larger plastic lids, such as butter, yogurt or take away container lids, just cut a slit into the side of the plastic milk bottle and slide them through the side.

Don’t be fooled by the triangular symbol with a number inside on plastic containers. This symbol is not a recycling symbol. It is a plastics identification code describing what type of plastic the item is made of.

The plastics that cannot be recycled in your yellow recycling bin are the soft plastics which include:

bread bags. frozen food bags. biscuit and lolly packaging. newspaper wraps.

reusable shopping bags.

old ‘green’ bags.

produce bags.

Soft plastics can still be recycled through the REDcycle Program at Coles supermarkets. The soft plastics recycling scheme means soft plastics can be diverted from landfill, recycled and turned into outdoor furniture for Australian schools as part of Coles Helping Australia Grow program. Many other supermarkets also recycle soft plastics too, so check with your local store.

The other tricky plastic is polystyrene foam. All polystyrene foam including packaging material, foam cups and foam meat trays need to go in the blue general waste bin.

Your new 2013/2014 Kerbside Waste and Recycling Calendar has lots of great information on what goes in which bin or contact Council’s Waste Management Officer on 8372 8809.

Domestic ‘At Call’ Hard Waste Collection Book your FREE hard waste collection service today. Visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or call 8295 5077.

Council will collect up to two cubic metres of: Furniture.

Mattresses.

Refrigerators and freezers (for safety reasons – please remove doors).

White goods.

Dismantled clothes lines.

Blinds and window coverings.

Bikes and toys.

Floor coverings (up to 1.5 metre lengths).

Sheets of iron and guttering (up to 1.5 metre lengths).

Timber off cuts (up to 1.5 metre lengths).

Tree and shrub prunings cut into two metre lengths and tied in bundles (max of 30 cm diameter).

Rainwater tanks (segments no larger than 1.5 metre lengths).

Air conditioners.

Small items of scrap metal.

Hot water services.

Lawn mowers.

Your Domestic Hard Waste Pickup will be within four weeks of booking the service, with residents advised in writing two weeks prior to their pick up date.

For further information please call 8372 8888. For collection enquiries and bookings call 8295 5077 or visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

There are 15 permanent locations in South Australia for you to dispose of your unwanted TVs and computers for free with many open 7 days a week. So there is no need to panic or illegally dump TVs along roads, in reserves or laneways.

The closest locations to drop off your unwanted TVs and computers include: Adelaide Waste and Recycling Centre, 181 Morphett Road, North Plympton.

Beverly Waste and Recycling Centre, 2-6 Toogood Avenue, Beverley.

Heathfield Resource Recovery Centre, Scott Creek Road, Heathfield.

Advanced Recycling Technologies, 13 Chrysler Drive, Lonsdale.

For a complete list of sites under the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme and more information on electronic waste visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or call 8372 8888.