Cardinia Connect - Feb/Mar

Your Council magazine

February–March 2014

Big hearts Locals making a difference Ways to ‘activate’ Get your family moving

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Playgroup Week Fun activities for kids

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Making tracks Building our roads

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Welcome

Council contacts

Message from the Mayor

Council offices are located at Henty Way, Pakenham, and are open 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday.

Address all correspondence to PO Box 7 Pakenham 3810.

Welcome to the February–March edition of Connect magazine.

Phone: 1300 787 624 Fax: 5941 3784 After hours emergencies: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au Website: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au National Relay Service (NRS): Customers who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can call through the National Relay Service: TTY users phone 133 677 then ask for 1300 787 624. Speak and Listen (speech-to-speech relay) users phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1300 787 624.

Connect is the official Cardinia Shire Council magazine. It is published six times each year and is distributed to more than 35,000 homes and businesses in Cardinia Shire. It is also available on audio CD from local libraries.

All images and other personal information collected for Connect will be stored securely, and be made available only in accordance with the Information Privacy Act 2000 and in accordance with Council’s Information Privacy Policy, a copy of which may be obtained from Council’s website www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/privacy For enquiries, contact the editor on 1300 787 624 or email: editor@cardinia.vic.gov.au Next edition: April–May 2014 Cover photo: Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award winner Matt McDonald at the Upper Beaconsfield Men’s Shed.

Photo by: Hilton Stone Printing: Blue Star Print is a Forest Stewardship Council, Chain of Custody certified company. All processes are controlled via our Environmental Management System that is certified to ISO 14001.

Printed on ecoStar paper made from 100% recycled post-consumer waste.

Council’s road renewal program and other major capital works have progressed well during summer.

New facilities including Toomah Community Centre and Henry Road Children’s Centre are opening this year to service children and families.

A NEW year brings fresh optimism and enthusiasm and the next 12 months will certainly be exciting and busy for Council and the Cardinia Shire community.

The move to new offices in the middle of the year will be a significant focus for Council, as will advocacy on behalf of our community to the Victorian Government and Opposition in this election year. We are also looking carefully at the 2014–15 budget to ensure residents get the best possible value for their rates in tight financial circumstances.

You may have noticed Council’s new logo on this edition’s front cover. It has a modern feel, but still features the sun and bird to pay homage to our heritage. The new logo will be gradually rolled out on Council materials, buildings and signs as they are updated or replaced.

I hope you enjoy reading this edition of Connect.

It was great to celebrate Australia Day and see residents across the Shire show such enthusiasm.

Congratulations to our new Citizen of the Year Matt McDonald and his fellow award winners.

Mayor Cr Graeme Moore

Must do …

1. Join Neighbourhood Watch Cardinia and help make our community safer. Upcoming meetings: Tuesday 18 February and Tuesday 18 March at Pakenham Police Station 7pm–8.30pm.

2. It’s Pakenham Show time! Be part of the fun on Saturday 15 March at PB Ronald Reserve – entry is free. Visit www.pakenhamshow.org.au for details.

3. Pack a picnic and head to Emerald Lake Park for Council’s Summer Music Series – free live music every Sunday afternoon in February.

4. Council’s Sustainability Expo is on Saturday 1 March at Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham. It features bright and affordable ideas for living a greener, healthier life and activities for kids. Free entry.

5. Celebrate Cultural Diversity Week from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 March by participating in events happening around the Shire. Visit Council’s website for details.

Summer Music Series

Re

ad

it Commng i t t to ge

Get connected! www.facebook.com/ CardiniaShireCouncil twitter.com/CardiniaShire

er

bo

fit!

nu s

Get in the swim this summer

Get mobile with our mobile app

Simply clip out this voucher and present it to the friendly YMCA Cardinia Life staff to get entry for one adult or child (aquatic facilities only).

Valid until 30 June 2014.

This pass entitles the bearer to a

FREE

swim at Cardinia Life.

Cardinia Life, Olympic Way, Pakenham Ph: 5945 2888

2 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au



Our eNewsletters are a great way of getting the most out of your Council. Head online to subscribe.

News

Citizen of the Year Matt McDonald (far left) with fellow members of the Upper Beaconsfield Men’s Shed.

In brief ...

The best local bites WHAT are the healthiest food options when eating out in Pakenham? Council’s new ‘Healthy Bites’ program aims to make this choice easier for residents.

As of March, participating food outlets will be displaying ‘Healthy Bites’ signage in their windows. Healthy options will be marked with a green sticker on the menu, and are all low in saturated fat and salt and high in fibre.

This is an Australian Government funded initiative. For more information visit Council’s website.

Kindergarten enrolments

Salute to our top citizens

ALL three- and four-year-old enrolments for 2015 and beyond are now centrally managed by Council. Families with existing enrolments are now being contacted to check their details are up-to-date.

This new process will ensure all eligible children have equal access to a kindergarten in the year before school.

AUSTRALIA Day Awards were given to outstanding citizens from the Cardinia Shire community at the Pakenham celebrations last month. This was one of many Australia Day events held around the Shire.

Mayor, Cr Graeme Moore, said the awards recognise the contribution made by people who have worked tirelessly to strengthen and improve their community.

Citizen of the Year: Matt McDonald Matt shows amazing public spirit. For the past 30 years he has been part of many Upper Beaconsfield committees and groups. He was instrumental in establishing the Upper Beaconsfield Men’s Shed, and has been involved in Scouts, the Village Fair Committee, Ash Wednesday recovery activities and the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal.

Community Organisation of the Year: ECHO Youth and Family Services ECHO helps families and young people through hard times, equips them to make good life choices and provides crisis relief. It runs several programs out of Emerald, including peer leadership and community mentor development. ECHO turns 30 this year.

Senior Citizen of the Year: John Mitchell

Community Event of the Year: PAVE festival

John – or Jack as he is universally known – proves that the most rewarding years of life often come in retirement. He has been an active member of the Pakenham Lakeside residents and community development forum, Lakeside Neighbourhood Watch, the Pakenham Business Group, the Cardinia Foundation and the 4C’s Crisis Relief Centre.

Emerald’s week-long PAVE festival attracts around 12,000 people each year. Running since 2004, the event features graphic art, photography, dance, theatre, film, music, indigenous and multicultural events. PAVE supports the work of local artists and boosts the local economy.

Young Citizen of the Year: Adele Mepstead Adele has been an active member of Scouts, Venturers, Rovers and the Dr Alan Wade Alzheimer’s Research Fund. She has fundraised for various organisations and has been a member of the Pakenham Blue Light Disco and Relay for Life committees.

Community Services Award: Lynette Joy Wealands Lyn volunteered regularly at the Lang Lang Memorial Hall and was part of the Lang Lang Op Shop Committee. In 2002, she joined the Historical Arts Society, serving as secretary for more than 11 years.

New sports stadium for Officer A NEW indoor sports stadium featuring three multi-use courts will be constructed in Officer.

The stadium will be built as part of the future Officer Secondary College. It will also be used by Officer Specialist School and by the general community outside of school hours.

Council is dedicating $2 million to the project, with the Victorian Government’s Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) contributing $650,000. The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD) will also help fund the facility.

Have you paid your rates?

UNLESS you are paying your rates in instalments, or have already arranged a payment plan with Council, full payment of rates is due by Saturday 15 February. Interest will be charged on outstanding balances after this date. If you cannot pay by this time, please contact Council as soon as possible to arrange a one-month extension or to discuss a payment plan.

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2014 | 3

Your Council

Meet … Council’s Active Children’s Officer Kate Beveridge

Spotlight on ...

Community capital works grants program

Children at Upper Beaconsfield Kindergarten enjoy new play equipment thanks to a community capital works grant.

Photo courtesy: Star News Group.

I joined Cardinia Shire Council …

In November 2007.

My role involves …

Working with primary schools in Cardinia Shire to encourage and support students to be more physically active, by walking, riding, scooting or skating safely to and from school.

“I have the best job at Council!”

A typical day …

Takes place at a school. I usually spend half an hour with each grade, identifying any barriers that may prevent students from actively making their way to school. We then brainstorm ways to overcome these. We also talk about why it’s essential to be active, how to safely cross the road and the importance of wearing a helmet that fits correctly when riding, scooting or skating.

How I began working in this field …

I thought about nursing, and then considered teaching. A career in health promotion seemed to combine great elements of both.

The best part of my job is …

Wheels day! Students are asked to bring a helmet and a piece of equipment with wheels to school, such as a bike, scooter, skateboard, ripstik or rollerskates. I set up an obstacle course that the children then zip around on their ‘wheels’ for around 30 minutes. I love seeing their smiles get bigger as their confidence grows with each lap!

My biggest challenge is …

Trying to increase the number of children coming to school actively. Around 70 per cent of children in Victoria are driven to school each day.

I’m most proud of …

How unique my role is. I certainly don’t know of any other local council with a position like mine.

Talking with students and hearing their ideas is so much fun and really rewarding. I have the best job at Council!

If I could offer residents one piece of advice …

Walk with your kids whenever you can! They enjoy it, it’s good for you both and it improves their concentration and helps them to learn more effectively. It also gives you the chance to teach them how to stay safe and to have a good chat!

4 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

COUNCIL supports the valuable work of many local groups and organisations through its annual community capital works and major equipment grants program.

Grants of up to $35,000 for capital works projects and $10,000 for major equipment purchases are available. To secure their grant, groups raise funds that Council then matches dollar-for-dollar.

Applications for the 2014–15 program opened in late January and can be submitted online via Council’s website until 5pm on Friday 14 March.

The program helps fund improvements to community halls and centres, kindergartens, sporting clubs and recreation reserves and enables local groups and organisations to upgrade or install new facilities, purchase equipment and improve accessibility.

Mayor, Cr Graeme Moore, said these committees and organisations are the heart and soul of our local community, giving residents the opportunity to be active, learn, play and connect with others.

“The grants are always put to excellent use, and help to build a stronger and more vibrant Cardinia Shire,” Cr Moore said.

“Council awarded 58 grants totalling almost $600,000 through last year’s program. This was a record number and we are hoping even more groups apply in 2014–15.”

To find out if your organisation is eligible for a grant or for more information contact Council’s Community Strengthening team on 1300 787 624 or C.Strengthening@cardinia.vic.gov.au, or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

News

Adam Lowndes is entering his business ProPlumb in the new Casey Cardinia Business Awards.

Business awards are

booming

LOCAL business operators, get ready to be part of something big in 2014!

Council is teaming up with the City of Casey to present the first ever Casey Cardinia Business Awards, to be held on the evening of Thursday 9 October at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham.

Local businesses big and small are encouraged to enter, with finalists getting the chance to become the Casey Cardinia Business of the Year.

This year’s awards will feature 11 categories including Hospitality and Tourism, Agriculture and Primary Industries and Manufacturing, as well as two new categories, Social Enterprise and New Business.

Winners will claim some excellent prizes, including a share in $14,000 in prize money and outstanding media and marketing exposure.

“This is a really exciting new phase for our business awards program,” said Cardinia Shire Council’s Economic Development Coordinator Andrew Pomeroy.

“Bigger and even better awards will support the work our two councils are doing to provide business networking, training and development opportunities, to generate local jobs and attract new investors to the area.”

“Entering the awards is a fantastic way to celebrate the success and innovation of your business, give your staff a pat on the back and help raise your profile across the entire Casey Cardinia region,” Andrew said.

Wake up and be inspired!

JIM’S Mowing founder Jim Penman will be guest speaker at the first Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast for 2014 on Wednesday 14 March at Cranbourne Golf Club.

A Casey–Cardinia council partnership, this popular event series gives local business operators the chance to make new contacts, come up with fresh ideas and feel motivated to be their very best.

Pakenham business ProPlumb won the Property, Trades and Construction category at the 2013 Cardinia Business Awards. Owner Adam Lowndes will enter his company again this year and encourages other operators to do the same.

“The win gave us some great promotion and left our staff feeling extra energised and enthused.

Going through the application process helped us to identify strengths, consider ways to improve and plan for the future,” Adam said.

Information sessions and mentor services are available to businesses applying for the awards.

Sessions will be held on: Wednesday 26 March Monash University, Berwick 7.30am–8.30am Thursday 27 March Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham 6pm–7pm To register, or to arrange to discuss your application with a business mentor, contact 1300 787 624 or ecodev@cardinia.vic.gov.au The 2014 Casey Cardinia Business Awards open on 12 March.

To enter, visit www.caseycardinia.com.au/ businessawards Submissions close on 16 May.

To book, visit www.trybooking.com/52316

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2014 | 5

What’s on February Sunday 9

Sunday 16

Family fun day

Beaconsfield Upper Village Festival

Koo Wee Rup outdoor pool, Cochrane Park Reserve, Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup 1pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624.

Tuesday 11 Building your online strategy workshop Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham 6pm–9.30pm. Cost: $30.

Contact Council 1300 787 624 or email ecodev@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Saturday 15 Pakenham pool party Pakenham outdoor pool, Anderson Street, Pakenham 11am.

Cost: $5. Contact Council 1300 787 624 or email youth@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Saturday 15 Activate your family Come and try activities on community outdoor equipment, Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham 10am.

Contact Council 1300 787 624.

Beaconsfield Upper Community Centre, Photo cour tesy: Anne 10–12 Salisbury Road, McNeill Photogra phy Beaconsfield Upper 9am–3pm. Contact Janet Cathie 0407 347 742 or ubvillagefest@gmail.com or visit www.ubvillagefest.org.au

Tuesday 18 Activate your family Come and try activities on community outdoor equipment, Cardinia Life (YMCA), Olympic Boulevard, Pakenham 4pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624.

Tuesday 18 Neighbourhood Watch Cardinia meeting Please note change of meeting day and time for 2014, now on third Tuesday of the month, Pakenham Police Station, 780 Princes Highway, Pakenham 7pm–8.30pm.

For information on upcoming meetings, visit www.facebook.com/nhwcardinia

Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 Circling the brink – expressions of interest Professional development workshop for practicing artists, Telopea Gardens, 80 Beaconsfield–Emerald Road, Emerald 9.30am–12.30pm. Contact Vivienne Rogis 0417 663 778 or viv@spaceinmotion.com or visit www.pave.org.au/events/circling-the-brink

Thursday 27 Activate your family Come and try activities on community outdoor equipment, PB Ronald Reserve, Henry Street, Pakenham 6pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624.

March Saturday 1 Sustainability Expo Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham 10am–3pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624 or mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/sustainabilityexpo

Sunday 2 Clean up Australia Day All across Australia, all day. Check locations and times at www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au Contact Council 1300 787 624 or email mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Tuesday 4 Melbourne Heart’s ‘coach the coach’ Training workshop for sports coaches, Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre, 11 Webster Way, Pakenham 7pm–9pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624.

6 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Wednesday 12

Tuesday 18

Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast with Jim Penman

Neighbourhood Watch Cardinia meeting

Cranbourne Golf Club, South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne 7am–9am. Contact Raylene Wilson on 9705 5200 or rewilson@casey.vic.gov.au or book online at www.trybooking.com/52316

Third Tuesday of the month, Pakenham Police Station, 780 Princes Highway, Pakenham 7pm–8.30pm. For information on upcoming meetings, visit www.facebook.com/nhwcardinia

Saturday 15 eWaste collection Gemco Players Community Theatre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald 9am–1pm.

Contact Council 1300 787 624 or email mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Saturday 15 Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Show PB Ronald Reserve, Henry Street, Pakenham 9am.

Contact show secretary David Clarke 0408 117 709 or pakenhamshow1@bigpond.com or visit www.pakehamshow.org.au

Monday 24 to Friday 28 National Playgroup Week Celebrate the week with the ‘Big Play Out’, PB Ronald Reserve, Henry Street, Pakenham on Wednesday 26 March, 10am–1pm; includes craft activities and a visit from the PlayStart van. See page 10 of Connect for details of other Council activities. Contact Council’s family connection team on 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Saturday 29 Sunday to 30 Yakkerboo Festival Annual festival, various sites in Pakenham from 10am. Contact Vanessa Van Gramberg 0434 100 500 or yakkerboo@gmail.com or visit www.yakkerboo.org.au

February–March 2014 Library news Storytime and Tinies’ Time start again this month!

Our free monthly children’s book club has lots of stories, games, quizzes and craft activities. The Library Explorers’ Club is for children from Prep to Year 2 and the Library Adventurers’ Club is for children aged eight and over.

For more details, pick up a brochure from your local library.

Council meetings Meetings are in the Council Chambers at Council offices, Henty Way, Pakenham unless otherwise advised.

Ph: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

February Monday 3

Town planning committee meeting 7pm

Monday 17 General Council meeting 7pm

March

Monday 3 Town planning committee meeting 7pm

Monday 17 General Council meeting, Nar Nar Goon Community Centre, Spencer Street, Nar Nar Goon 7pm

Emerald Library 400B Belgrave–Gembrook Road Ph: 5968 3925

Cardinia Cultural Centre

Inspiring Through Creative Design Wednesday 26 February

Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham Ph: 1300 787 624 Email: ccc@cardinia.vic.gov.au

6.30pm–8pm Melbourne-based interior designer and author of best-selling home-making books Bronnie Masefau can help you discover your own style, capture your vision, incorporate family needs and enjoy the journey.

Q&A session plus book sales and signing.

Head down to Emerald Lake Park this Head down Emeraldannual Lake Park this music February for to Council’s summer February for Council’s annual summer series!

Bring your family and friends for a music with series! your filled familywith and friends picnic anBring afternoon for a picnic with an 12.30pm. afternoon filled with entertainment from entertainment from 12.30pm.

For more information visit For more website information visit Council’s www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/summermusic

Pakenham Library

Whistle down the wind – CPAC

Corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham Ph: 5941 2036

Swallow, a 15 year-old-girl growing up in America’s deep-south in the 1950s discovers a mysterious man hiding out in a barn …

Thursday 27 February 6pm–7.30pm Get up close and personal with bestselling Australian rural and environmental fiction author Jennifer Scoullar. We get under the covers of Currawong Creek, Brumby’s Rise and Wasp Season and chat about the sometimes rocky road to publication.

Thursday 13 March 4.30pm–5.30pm Let’s Talk Books – for teens aged 13 and over. Chill out and explore what others have been listening to, watching or reading!

Snacks provided.

Thursday 27 March

Cardinia Shire’s outdoor pools will close for the season from the following dates.

• Emerald: Monday 10 March • Garfield: Sunday 16 March • Koo Wee Rup: Sunday 23 March • Pakenham: Sunday 16 March

March: Saturday 1, 8pm; Sunday 2, 2pm; Thursday 6, 7pm; Friday 7, 8pm Cost: $32; pensioner and student: $29; under 15: $25; family: $105

February Friday 21 to Sunday 23 Cardinia grand art exhibition Major art event showcasing fine art by nationally and internationally renowned, established and emerging artists.

For more information contact 9704 7773 or provenance@tpg.com.au

6pm–7.30pm Join Julie Weatherhead from Peppermint Ridge Farm in Tynong North as she shares her knowledge of Australian bush food, its uses and how to grow these wonderful flavours in your own backyard.

March Wednesday 5

Mobile Library

Sunday 16

The mobile library will be in a town near you soon.

Visit www.cclc.vic.gov.au/cardiniamobile or call 5941 2036 for more information.

Pool season ends

February: Saturday 22, 8pm; Sunday 23, 2pm

Visit any time!

Casey–Cardinia Library Corporation operates public library services for Cardinia Shire Council in Pakenham and Emerald. The Cardinia Mobile Library visits townships weekly. Library membership is free. Pick up a brochure or visit www.cclc.vic.gov.au

Morning Melodies Elvis and rock‘n’roll legends.

Morning tea: 10am; show: 11am. Cost: $15.

Psychic Expo Mediums, clairvoyants, spirit artists, tarot and palm readers, astrology, Reiki, aura imaging, massage, book, tarot card, crystal jewellery stalls and free workshops 10am–5pm.

Cost: $5 (children under 15 free).

Saturday 29 Pakenham Pregnancy, Baby and Kids Expo Shopping, education and networking with almost 80 stall holders, roving entertainers, jumping castle and activities 10am–3pm.

Profits to charity.

Cost: $5 (children under 12 free).

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2014 | 7

News

Roads drive a busy schedule PUT all the unsealed roads in Cardinia Shire together and you could almost drive to Sydney!

Add the wear and tear of constant traffic, the impact of weather – summer heat, winter rains – and it’s no wonder managing such a network is a challenge.

But it’s one that Council’s busy Operations unit relishes, and every day dedicated teams with graders, rollers and other heavy machinery are operating across the Shire.

Having so much rural land makes this municipality very different from others on Melbourne’s suburban fringe. Of the 1,400 kilometres of roads, almost 900 kilometres are unsealed.

While constant work is required to maintain such a large area, each summer Council makes a concerted effort to target priority roads in its annual renewal program.

This year, $820,000 will be invested into resurfacing around 35 kilometres of unsealed roads.

ROADS in Bunyip, Cardinia, Emerald, Garfield, Garfield North, Koo Wee Rup, Koo Wee Rup North, Lang Lang, Modella, Maryknoll, Pakenham and Pakenham South will all be resurfaced with a new crushed rock material this summer.

Working with local quarries, Council developed the new material with a higher clay content to bind more firmly together. It will then be compacted to a depth of 100 millimetres, graded and rolled.

Operations Team Leader Mark Howard said this will result in a stronger, safer road surface that is better to drive on, lasts longer and needs less maintenance.

8 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Truck Driver Peter Berkout,Tractor Operator Colin Mills and Operations Team Leader Mark Howard are part of Council’s hardworking Operations team.

The resurfacing works began in October and will continue during the warmer months. Two teams work across the northern and southern parts of the Shire with six graders operating full time.

Mark said driver safety is a constant focus for Council’s road maintenance crews and encouraged motorists to do their bit by always driving according to the conditions.

The program is a feature of Council’s overall road management plan which includes annual assessments of all unsealed roads to determine maintenance priorities. Inspections are also conducted in response to calls from residents.

The schedule of works is updated regularly on Council’s website.

“The speed limit is the fastest you can legally drive on a particular stretch of road, not necessarily the speed you should drive,” he said.

Operations Team Leader Mark Howard said Council is committed to providing safe and well maintained roads for the community.

The unsealed network makes up a large part of Council’s road maintenance efforts but is by no means the only focus.

The 508 kilometres of sealed roads – growing all the time in the expanding residential areas around Pakenham, Beaconsfield and Officer – are also attended to daily.

“Some unsealed roads are checked as often as every four weeks, others are checked every six weeks, or 12 weeks, depending on their condition. Even roads with minimal traffic in areas with limited access are inspected at least twice each year and any works prioritised,” Mark said.

A key factor in the condition of the roads is the weather. Dust and corrugations in summer, and potholes in winter are constant reminders that it takes only a heavy downpour to wipe out weeks of careful maintenance.

“Wow! What a great job of the resheeting. For the first time in years we have a road that is safe and free of corrugations and drivers are keeping on the correct side of the road …

The grader driver has done a terrific job. Thanks again.”

– Resident feedback

Council Grader Operator Col

in Mills.

News

Upgrades improve safety ROAD and footpath projects across Cardinia Shire are making life easier and safer for motorists and pedestrians.

Council’s asset renewal program is delivering several key improvements this year.

McGregor Road duplication (north of railway crossing to south of Main Street)

$5 million

Cardinia Road repair works

$1.5 million

Mark Howard.

Gembrook–Tonimbuk Road stabilisation works

$1.6 million

New footpath program

$700,000

Bald Hill Road reconstruction

Caldermede Road repair works

$690,000

$487,000

Bessie Creek Road stabilisation works

Main Street asphalt patching and resurfacing

$300,000

Council Operations Team Leader

Resurfacing a fo

otpath in Upper

Beaconsfield.

Council Road Su pervisor Adam Re nyard with Andr Blackwell and Jo ew el Kent from Ke nt Environmenta Vegetation Man l and agement.

$240,000

Gravel footpaths have also been given a recent spruce-up as part of Council’s annual renewal program.

Four kilometres of paths across the Shire – the equivalent of a healthy morning walk or jog – were resheeted in an $82,000 project.

The project involved the replenishment of gravel lost through natural wear and tear or sudden storms.

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2014 | 9

Connections

Pakenham Show ambassadors Catherine Ritchie, Geoff Young and Grace Calder enjoy last year’s event. Photo courtesy: Star News Group.

Get ready to play!

BRING the family along to Council’s National Playgroup Week celebrations from 24 to 28 March. A range of fun, free events that celebrate the importance of play will be on offer for children aged five and under.

Country’s finest on show COME join the festivities at the 2014 Pakenham Show on Saturday 15 March from 9am at its new venue, PB Ronald Reserve in Pakenham. For the first time in its 103-year history the show will be free for visitors to enter.

Previously held at Pakenham Racecourse, the change of venue marks an exciting new chapter for the event, one of Victoria’s top country shows.

Families can see prizewinning sheep, flowers in full bloom or get up close to different dog breeds, goats and poultry.

“I’m particularly looking forward to this year’s photography and art exhibitions and the outer space-themed school artworks,” Geoff said.

“Our event celebrates the land, the local economy and our community.”

Pakenham Show president Geoff Young said agricultural shows remain among Australia’s greatest traditions.

“Come along and discover the science behind primary production, see where food comes from and celebrate the skill of our farmers, and jam and cake makers.

Be sure to catch old show favourites including the dog high jump, gumboot throwing, paper plane flying, junior show personality competitions, vintage cars and machinery, the popular giant pumpkin and vegetable competition and the much-loved Wally Wombat Trail.

For more information visit www.pakenhamshow.org.au

Happy holidays A NEW school holiday program called ‘Cardinia Kids in Action’ is happening in 2014–15, offering free or affordable entertainment in the Shire for families with children aged 12 and under.

10 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Events and activities will include puppet shows, family walks and games, cooking demonstrations, dancing, drumming, musical instrument and book making, arts and crafts, treasure hunts and lots more.

For more information check out Council’s website, contact Council’s Children’s Services team on 1300 787 624 or pick up a brochure from your local library.

Events include library storytimes, puppet shows, healthy eating demonstrations, free dance and exercise activities, service information and much more.

The ‘Big Play Out’ at PB Ronald Reserve will be a highlight on Wednesday 26 March, 10am–1pm, with craft activities and a visit from the PlayStart van.

Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre will open its doors to families for free on Friday 28 March from 5pm–8pm, with equipment also free to use.

Council’s Best Start Community Facilitator Nadine Ford said the week-long event is a chance to promote and celebrate playgroups in the Shire.

“Playgroups foster connections between families, enhance children’s learning and provide a place to go for support,” Nadine said.

“They help create special memories and friendships for life.

“Playgroups rely on community volunteers as well as partnerships with other organisations and agencies,” Nadine said.

For more information contact Council’s Family Connections team on 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Connections

SH THE PU

BU

T TO N

WANT to have fun and boost your health and wellbeing at the same time? Long daylight hours and warm weather means it’s the perfect time of year to increase your physical activity. So gather the family, lace up your sneakers or grab your swimmers and get ready to be your healthy and happy best!

Blake Photo Drur y show s cour te sy: Sta off his footy r New s Grou skills. p.

Council’s Partnerships and Engagement Officer Freya Mellor-Prior says encouraging families to be more physically active is a priority for Council.

“That’s why we offer a range of indoor and outdoor sport and recreation facilities, health and fitness programs and open spaces to help the community to get more active, more often,” Freya said.

“Daily physical activity helps you to manage your weight, reduce the risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, gives you more energy, helps you sleep better and leaves you better equipped to cope with life’s ups and downs.”

“And, mums and dads, by being a positive role model for your children, they are more likely to make exercise a healthy habit for life,” Freya said.

The Drury family enjoy some active leisure time at one of the Shire’s premier sporting facilities.

Photo courtesy: Star News Group.

“Thirty minutes of moderate activity for adults and 60 minutes for children is all it takes to reap significant health benefits. By choosing an activity the whole family enjoys, it needn’t be a chore!”

To help keep the community moving, free outdoor gym equipment is available at six locations around the Shire, including Koo Wee Rup, Pakenham and Cockatoo.

Regularly taking part in physical activity together has helped Beaconsfield resident Fiona Drury and her husband Steve build a stronger family unit for their three young boys; Mitchell, eight, and five-year-old twins Archie and Blake.

As part of the Activate Your Family campaign this summer, Council is partnering with the YMCA to deliver free ‘come and try’ sessions, run by a qualified instructor, to help residents use this equipment safely and effectively.

“We often go for bike rides and walk to the park to kick the footy around.

It’s much more healthy and fun than sitting in front of the TV and has definitely helped bring us closer together,” Fiona said.

Participants can then access 30- or 60-minute, family friendly activity plans based on the session. For dates and info, head to Council’s online events calendar at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar

Head to Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre for a game of tennis.

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Join one of the Shire’s 13 walking groups.

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Give your legs a good pedal-pushing workout at a BMX track.

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Walk, run, cycle or horse ride along the Cardinia Aqueduct or Emerald—Cockatoo recreation trails.

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Take a swim at Cardinia Life (use the free pool entry voucher on page 2) or in one of Council’s four seasonal outdoor pools.

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Grab your skateboard and head to a skate park.

For more ideas, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/health or www.facebook.com/healthytogethercardiniashire

Visit a park or recreation reserve.

Children will love the new play equipment at Alexandra Avenue Reserve in Koo Wee Rup, Ashton Place Reserve in Pakenham, Dunstan Road Reserve in Avonsleigh and Koolangarra Park in Bunyip.

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ways to get the family moving

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is a Healthy Together Cardinia Shire initiative which is jointly funded by the Victorian and Australian governments.

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2014 | 11

Looking forward Cr Brett Owen Ranges Ward

From your councillors Cr Leticia Wilmot Ranges Ward

Ph: 0418 993 370 Email: b.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au I attended the presentation of the National Emergency Medal to over 200 CFA volunteers from brigades across the Shire. The medal was awarded to those who gave sustained service during the Victorian bushfires in February 2009.

Congratulations to all medal recipients.

The Beaconsfield Structure Plan was adopted in December. This plan is the end result of extensive community consultation and will guide the development of Beaconsfield over the next 10 to 15 years. Thanks to all those who provided input.

Cr Tania Baxter Ranges Ward

Ph: 0427 135 879 Email: L.Wilmot@cardinia.vic.gov.au Congratulations to the people and organisations nominated for the Australia Day Awards. There were so many worthy nominations again this year and it is great to have the opportunity to acknowledge the excellent work you all do. Council’s Summer Music Series will again be held at Emerald Lake Park on each Sunday during February.

There is a different performance each week and the concerts are free. The performances are held at the bandstand and start at 12.30pm.

Cr Collin Ross Central Ward

Ph: 0427 528 358 Email: t.baxter@cardinia.vic.gov.au Council has recently adopted its updated Open Air Burning policy. (I like to think of it as a ‘second draft’ as it will be reviewed again in 12 months). The policy will come into effect after the 2014 bushfire season and is vastly different from the original draft policy which went out for community consultation last year. I encourage everyone to access a copy of this new document on Council’s website or via our Customer Service team.

Cr George Blenkhorn Central Ward

Ph: 0428 598 491 Email: c.ross@cardinia.vic.gov.au Preparations are underway for the next phase of the duplication of McGregor Road, Pakenham, a $5 million project to improve safety and access on one of our busiest roads. The project will deliver two lanes in each direction, a central median strip and intersection upgrades. Also underway is reconstruction of Bald Hill Road, Pakenham.

This $690,000 project will again improve motorist and pedestrian safety. I hope all residents had an enjoyable and safe Christmas break and look forward to a challenging year ahead.

Ph: 0429 139 902 Email: g.blenkhorn@cardinia.vic.gov.au 2014 is a very special year for Cardinia Shire families who have children with disabilities.

In Term 1, an early intervention facility for children aged five and under is opening at Henry Family Children’s Centre, as is Officer Specialist School. These excellent facilities mean that our children with disabilities will have specialist care and services much nearer to home and have a better chance to achieve their full potential.

Cr Kate Lempriere Central Ward Ph: 0427 371 263 Email: k.lempriere@cardinia.vic.gov.au I hope your Christmas was happy and memorable. This year will be exciting because strategic development and planning will continue to illustrate a progressive ongoing trend with road improvements, project development and better facilities in our towns. I will continue to advocate for funding from Victorian and Australian government sources and work cooperatively with Councillors for better environmental and social outcomes, including job creation for all residents.

Cr Graeme Moore Port Ward

Cr Jodie Owen Central Ward Ph: 0427 294 893 Email: j.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au Firstly, I hope all residents have a well prepared fire plan for the bushfire season.

This year another outstanding group of residents have been selected for Australia Day awards. Thank you to each and every one of you for what you give to the community. I am looking forward to working harder for residents in relation to reducing vandalism and graffiti throughout the Shire.

Cr David Young Port Ward

Ph: 0400 167 844 Email: g.moore@cardinia.vic.gov.au Welcome to 2014! I hope the residents of Port Ward had a safe and happy festive season and all have bushfire plans in place.

My appreciation and congratulations goes to the community members who were nominated for and received Australia Day Awards and to the organising committees involved in these events. I am looking forward to the challenges of the New Year, including policies and strategies to be discussed as part of Council’s agenda for the community’s benefit.

Ph: 0427 455 798 Email: d.young@cardinia.vic.gov.au Spring extended into the early part of summer, making hay conservation difficult.

I would like to congratulate the Australia Day Award recipients and thank the many people who attended the three official functions in Port Ward. Congratulations to the Lang Lang Show Committee on a successful show and I look forward to the Bunyip Show in March.

The final race meeting at the present home of Pakenham Racing Club will be held in early February and we look forward to the opening of their new facility in Tynong in 2015.

Cardinia Shire Ranges Ward • Avonsleigh • Beaconsfield • Beaconsfield Upper • Clematis • Cockatoo • Dewhurst • Emerald

• Gembrook • Guys Hill • Menzies Creek • Mount Burnett • Nangana • Officer • Pakenham Upper

12 | 1300 787 624 www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Port Ward • Bayles • Bunyip • Bunyip North • Caldermeade • Cardinia • Catani • Cora Lynn • Dalmore • Garfield

Central Ward • Garfield North • Heath Hill • Iona • Koo Wee Rup • Koo Wee Rup North • Lang Lang • Lang Lang East • Longwarry

• Maryknoll • Modella • Monomeith • Nar Nar Goon • Nar Nar Goon North • Nyora • Officer South

• Pakenham South • Rythdale • Tonimbuk • Tooradin • Tynong • Tynong North • Vervale • Yannathan

• Pakenham