Your Council magazine
April–May 2015
The main event
What’s on in your Shire Illegal dumping
A huge cost for Council
Emerald’s Anzac Walk Honouring fallen heroes
Good sports
Investing in recreation reserves
Welcome
Council contacts
Message from the Mayor
Cardinia Shire Council Civic Centre is located at 20 Siding Avenue, Officer and is open 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday. Address all correspondence to PO Box 7 Pakenham 3810
Welcome to the April–May edition of Connect magazine.
Phone: 1300 787 624 Fax: 5941 3784 After hours emergencies: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au Website: 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 cardinia.vic.gov.au/privacy
LEAVING rubbish in a park, vacant block of land, on the kerb or next to a bin is illegal. Unfortunately, managing this problem is a growing issue for Council – you can read about it on pages 8 and 9. Cleaning up this rubbish is a huge drain on our finances and staff resources. If you see someone dumping rubbish, or suspect they may be, please report it to us so we can remove the rubbish and try to track down the offenders. Together, we can all help to keep Cardinia Shire clean. Do you know of a local business that provides a great product or service, or inspires you with the terrific work they do? Then why not nominate it for the People’s Choice Award in this year’s Casey Cardinia Business Awards! Nominations are now open; the winner will be announced at
a presentation dinner on Thursday 22 October. Visit caseycardinia.com.au/businessawards for all the details. Autumn is a bumper season for events in our Shire – turn to pages 6 and 7 to see what’s on. If you’re looking for a free event for the whole family, the Sustainability Expo on Saturday 2 May at Cardinia Cultural Centre ticks the boxes. It will showcase environmentally-friendly products and ideas to suit all budgets, as well as great entertainment for the kids − they can blend a smoothie using pedal power, watch a magic show and collect a free plant for the garden. Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/ sustainabilityexpo for info − I’ll see you there!
Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot
Must do …
For enquiries, contact the editor on 1300 787 624 or editor@cardinia.vic.gov.au
1. Do a clean out in time for hard and green waste, ewaste and ‘detox your home’ collections in April and May. Why not donate items in good condition to a charity store then sort other unwanted items according to which collection they are suitable for? Visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/communitycompass and type in your street address for all waste collection dates.
Next edition: June−July 2015 Cover photo: Best friends Zara (left) and Ava enjoy Council’s Sustainability Expo last year.
2. Head to Yakkerboo Festival on Sunday 19 April at Bourke Park and Main Street, Pakenham and don’t forget the festival’s art show on 29 to 31 May at Pakenham Hall. Both events are proudly supported by Council.
Photo: 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 which is certified to ISO 14001.
3. Try your hand at footgolf! This fusion of soccer and golf makes for a game that’s fun for all ages. Try it at Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links – visit beaconhillsgolf.com.au for more info. 4. Help preserve and promote our Shire’s rich history by volunteering with Emerald Museum and Nobelius Heritage Park in Emerald. Several two-year term committee member positions are available from July this year. Under Council’s authority, the committee oversees the management of the park and museum. To express your interest in taking up one of these rewarding roles, contact Emerald Museum on 5968 2152 or enquiries@emeraldmuseum.org.au
Printed on ecoStar paper made from 100% recycled post-consumer waste.
5. Connect with Council by ‘liking’ us on Facebook; we’ll keep you posted on Council works, events, activities and programs and provide up-to-the-minute updates in the event of an emergency. Find us at facebook.com/CardiniaShireCouncil
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Get fit and fabulous!
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Discounted entry to any group fitness class at YMCA Cardinia Life. Participate in any group fitness class and pay only $7 (save $6). Bookings not required but class sizes are limited. Valid from Monday 13 April to Sunday 10 May 2015 (cannot be used for classes in the aquatic facilities). Cardinia Life, 4 Olympic Way, Pakenham Ph: 5945 2888 Email: cardinia.life@ymca.org.au
For the group fitness timetable visit cardinialife.ymca.org.au
‘Community Compass’ online mapping and information tool
Re a
News
In brief ...
Koo Wee Rup Football Club member Chris trains on the upgraded oval at Koo Wee Rup Recreation Reserve.
Civic centre declared open THE GOVERNOR of Victoria officially opened Cardinia Shire Council’s new civic centre on Wednesday 25 February. His Excellency The Hon Alex Chernov AC QC visited the Officer building with Mrs Elizabeth Chernov to cut the ribbon and unveil a plaque in the foyer. The ceremony included a traditional welcome and smoking ceremony by a local Aboriginal elder and a performance by the All Together Choir. Students from Officer Specialist School also attended to form a guard of honour for the Governor and Mrs Chernov.
Community precinct for Lang Lang
It’s time to play ball! PROVIDING our residents with great recreation reserves and sporting facilities is a key priority for Council. As our community grows it’s important that young people have access to excellent netball and tennis courts, playing fields and other facilities so they can stay active, enjoy better physical and mental health, make friends and connect with their local community. Council has recently established new recreation reserves and conducted major upgrade works at several grounds around Cardinia Shire. Some of these are highlighted below.
Heatherbrae Recreation Reserve
NEW
Corner of Arena Parade and Princes Highway, Officer
Used by sporting clubs including Arena Jets Junior Netball Club and various football and cricket clubs across the Shire as needed. Cost: About $3.2 million ($2.7 million from Council, $500,000 from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Community Facility Funding Program). Pavilions for the ovals and netball courts will also be constructed in the next three years.
Beaconsfield–Emerald Road, Beaconsfield New features: two netball courts. Used by sporting clubs including Beaconsfield Netball Club. Cost: $200,000 (funded by Council).
UPGRADE
Belgrave–Gembrook Road, Emerald
Features: two football and cricket ovals with flood lighting, two cricket nets, two netball courts with flood lighting, one half-court basketball and tennis hit-up wall and a playground.
Holm Park Recreation Reserve
Chandler Recreation Reserve
UPGRADE
Works: reshaping of football and cricket oval; new grass, fencing, cricket pitch and practice nets, playing surface area increased, major drainage and irrigation works. Used by sporting clubs including Emerald Cricket Club and Emerald Football Club. Cost: $500,000 (funded by Council).
Koo Wee Rup Recreation Reserve
UPGRADE
Denhams Road, Koo Wee Rup Works: major drainage and irrigation works on the football and cricket oval. Used by sporting clubs including Koo Wee Rup Football Club and Koo Wee Rup Cricket Club. Cost: $300,000 (funded by Council).
Nar Nar Goon Recreation Reserve
UPGRADE
Spencer Street, Nar Nar Goon Works: ground reshaping, major drainage and irrigation works on the football and cricket oval, new grass. Used by sporting clubs including Nar Nar Goon Football Club and Nar Nar Goon–Maryknoll Cricket Club. Cost: $300,000 (funded by Council).
A MAJOR recreation and community precinct will be established at Lang Lang in an exciting new partnership between Council and Lang Lang Community Bank. The precinct will be constructed on a 36-hectare parcel of undeveloped farmland purchased by the Community Bank and handed over to Council for public use. The land is bordered by Soldiers Road to the east and Caldermeade Road to the north. The precinct will include sporting facilities, multipurpose community spaces, and parks and other open spaces for recreational activities. Council has consulted with community groups on the project and a master plan is now being developed. Consultation on this plan will take place with the community later this year.
Road resurfacing COUNCIL has committed $2.75 million to its annual road resealing program for 2014–15, with 76 roads and some car parks to be resealed. Works include $1.25 million towards sprayed bitumen surfacing and $1.5 million on asphalt surfacing. The program also includes preparation and patching prior to resurfacing. An estimated 156,500 square metres will be resurfaced – this is eight times the size of the MCG! The works are expected to be complete by the end of April.
McGregor Road works finished THE DUPLICATION of McGregor Road, Pakenham, between Rogers and Main streets is now complete. This section of road now has two lanes in each direction, a central median strip and upgraded intersections. As one of our Shire’s busiest roads, the duplication will improve safety and access for the 15,000 vehicles and many pedestrians who use it each day. The $5 million project was fully funded by Council. Council will continue to advocate to the Victorian Government for the upgrade and duplication of the road over the rail crossing and for intersection works at Henty and Rogers streets.
APRIL–MAY 2015 | 3
Your Council
Meet … Cardinia Cultural Centre’s Venue Manager Nat Noonan I have worked at Cardinia Cultural Centre … Since November 2013.
My role involves …
Overseeing the centre’s day-to-day operations. I meet with show producers, sell tickets to upcoming shows, liaise with our catering and technical teams, and organise functions including conferences. The centre is a really versatile community facility and is usually a hive of activity. It has a buzzing atmosphere!
The best part of my job is …
Seeing people enjoying themselves at our venue. We host so many feel-good events including award nights, theatre and comedy shows, school holiday movies and concerts, so this is a happy place for many people. I also love to see young people performing on stage – their confidence, energy and willingness to put themselves ‘out there’ is inspiring.
I am excited that …
The Wiggles are performing their first-ever evening show in Australia at Cardinia Cultural Centre this April. Because their shows here always sell out in record time, The Wiggles thought our venue was the perfect place to host a night-time performance. When tickets went on sale the phones rang hot and visits to our website skyrocketed! I am really proud that we can offer our patrons such excellent entertainment and events.
I hope to see …
Lots of people at our theatre shows this year – there are some excellent productions coming up including Simply Sinatra, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow and the hilarious 51 Shades of Maggie. There’s no need to head to the city for a night out when there are so many great acts right at your doorstep!
My other job is …
Parenting a gorgeous two-year-old. When I have a challenging day there is nothing better than seeing his little face light up when I walk in the door. I’m also a very social person and love spending time with family and friends. We enjoy going camping; there is something so relaxing and refreshing about being close to nature and giving up creature comforts for a little while.
Spotlight on … Anzac Walk COUNCIL and Emerald RSL were proud to unveil the Anzac Walk in Emerald in time for Anzac Day this year. The commemorative walk honours the 32 soldiers from the Emerald region who lost their lives in the First World War. Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove officially opened the walk on 11 March. Emerald’s Anzac Walk features plaques, information signs, an audio tour and an Unknown Soldier statue. It starts at the cenotaph on the corner of Kilvington Drive and Belgrave–Gembrook Road and finishes at Anzac Place. The official opening included a flyover by the Air Force Roulettes and a re-enactment of troops arriving home from the Great War on the historic Puffing Billy steam train. Local school students and their parents dressed in period costume for the event, which also featured a display of veteran cars. Council contributed $30,000 to the project and provided advice to Emerald RSL on its concept plans for the Anzac Walk. We also planted and pruned trees and laid turf in the area, and will continue to manage and maintain the walk. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the Department of Premier and Cabinet (Veterans’ Affairs division) and Emerald Rotary also provided funding for the project.
4 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624
Emerald RSL president Peter Maloney polishes the memorial plaque at the Anzac Walk.
News
Dogs that are exercised regularly and given toys to play with are less likely to bark excessively.
The dogs are talking DOGS barking excessively is one of the most common complaints received by Council. However, there are a number of strategies you can try – both as the owner of a barking dog or as someone who lives nearby – that could solve the problem.
“The solution could be as simple as walking your dog at least once a day. If you struggle to fit regular walks into your schedule, a dog walker could be the answer,” Mark said.
While it is normal behaviour for dogs to bark in some circumstances, when they do so excessively it can annoy or severely disrupt the whole neighbourhood.
“You might even hide or bury toys or bones around the yard. Putting snacks into a treat ball can also help prevent barking.
Council’s Planning Enforcement and Compliance Officer Mark Hayward said nuisance barking is barking that is extended in duration or happens at an inappropriate time.
If you have approached your neighbour about their dog’s excessive barking and the problem continues, it’s time to report it to Council.
“It’s reasonable for dogs to bark. They often bark for very good reasons, such as when a stranger approaches the house or when they hear an unfamiliar sound. “But it is not acceptable for a dog to, for example, bark every night at 3am or yap for hours on end every day,” Mark said. If you are affected by nuisance barking, the first thing you should do is approach the dog’s owner to discuss the issue. “This is important as some owners don’t even realise their dog is barking excessively, especially if they are not home when it happens. The problem is often resolved at this stage,” Mark said. If your dog is disturbing the neighbours, you will first need to identify why it is barking. Excessive barking often results when a dog is not getting enough exercise, is left alone for long periods of time or is not getting enough stimulation.
“Dogs are pack animals so they like to be around other dogs or humans. If your dog is barking due to loneliness, perhaps find a friend, neighbour or dog minder to keep your pooch company, or bring it inside the house at night.” Chew toys, balls or a bone can help keep your faithful friend busy while you are away from home.
“Behavioural training can also make a big difference,” Mark said.
A Council officer will provide you with noise diaries to record the time and duration of the barking over specified time periods. “As part of the investigation we will also get in touch with the dog’s owner to discuss the issue and give them strategies to try to stop the noise,” Mark said. “Council can’t force someone to get rid of their barking dog; however, owners are required to implement the strategies we put forward and may face fines or prosecution if they fail to do so. But obviously we would much prefer to solve the issue before it gets to this point.” Mark urges residents who make a complaint to Council about a barking dog to be as patient as possible. “The owner may need time to work out why the dog is barking so they can fix the problem. It is also quite a complex and time-consuming issue for Council to investigate,” he said.
APRIL–MAY 2015 | 5
What’s on April Saturday 11
Saturday 18
Sunday 19
PAVE Festival
Glitz and Glamour Charity Ball
Yakkerboo Festival
Enjoy a week of great activities including chilli night and historic walking tours. For more information and bookings contact 5968 3881 or pave.org.au
Supporting community projects and children’s education initiatives in East Timor. Beaconhills College, 30–4 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham 7pm. For bookings and enquiries contact Fonu Emberson 1300 002 225 or Fonu.Emberson@ beaconhills.vic.edu.au or beaconhills.vic.edu.au
Check out the carnival and firework display on Saturday night, then watch the parade, browse the market and enjoy activities in the park on Sunday. Bourke Park, Railway Avenue, Pakenham. Visit yakkerboo.org.au
Saturday 18
Gembrook Market and walk
ewaste collection
Start your morning with a walk around beautiful Gembrook Park at 9.30am (meet in car park), then enjoy the delights of Gembrook Market 9am–2pm at Gembrook Station, 60 Main Street, Gembrook. Contact market coordinator 0437 664 121 or gembrookmarket.com.au
Friday 17 Blue Light Disco Disco for young people in year levels 5 to 8. Pakenham Hall, corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham 6.30–9pm. Cost: $5. Contact Sharon Patterson 5945 2500 or kathyfrolley@gmail.com or bluelight.org.au
Recycle unwanted battery-operated items or those with a power cord (except whitegoods). Council depot, 18 Purton Road, Pakenham 9am–1pm. Contact Council 1300 787 624 or cardinia.vic.gov.au/recycling
May
Sustainability Expo
Saturday 2
Saturday 9
Detox your home collection
Outpost Gaming Club
Dispose of your old and unwanted chemicals in an environmentally responsible manner. Council depot, 18 Purton Road, Pakenham 8am–4pm. Contact Council 1300 787 624 or cardinia.vic.gov.au
Second Saturday of every month. Play cards and board games or tabletop war games in a fun and friendly environment. Cost: 12-month membership $100, 6-month membership $50, casual entry $10, spectators free. Beaconsfield Neighbourhood House, 8 O’Neil Road, Beaconsfield 9am–5pm. Contact outpostgamingclub@gmail.com
Saturday 9
Wednesday 20
Cockatoo Country Market First Saturday of every month. Alma Treloar Reserve, 74–5 Pakenham Road, Cockatoo 9am–2pm. Contact Tanya Burmeister 0418 508 068 or cockatoocountrymarket@ outlook.com
Free legal advice 15-minute appointments on legal and court issues. Bookings essential. Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham 6–7.30pm. Contact 5940 4728 or communitycentre@outlookvic.org.au or outlookvic.org.au
Saturday 30 ewaste collection Gemco Players Community Theatre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald 9am–1pm. Contact Council 1300 787 624 or cardinia.vic.gov.au/recycling
6 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624
Sunday 26
Learn how to save money, be kinder to the planet and reduce your waste at the Sustainability Expo on Saturday 2 May at Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham 10am–3pm. This event features fun and free activities for all the family including blend your own smoothie with pedal power, bike riding activity course, and face painting.
Neighbourhood House Week 11–17 May Cardinia Shire’s community centres and neighbourhood houses are opening their doors for morning teas, free training and other events to celebrate Neighbourhood House Week. For more information about what’s on at your nearest centre check Council’s online events calendar.
For more Council and community events visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/calendar
June Thursday 4 All Together Choir
Library news
All events are free. Bookings are essential. To book visit www.tinyurl.com/cclcevents or phone the library.
Emerald Library 400B Belgrave–Gembrook Road, Emerald Phone: 5949 4600
Friday 10 April 2.15–3.45pm Crazy Characters with Mark Carthew Explore book design, humour and wordplay with award-winning children’s author Mark Carthew. For ages seven and over.
Every Thursday during school terms. Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham 11am–12.30pm. Contact 5940 4728 or communitycentre@outlookvic.org.au or outlookvic.org.au
National Youth Week Festival Come along and enjoy a day of music, food and activities to celebrate National Youth Week on Saturday 11 April 11.30am–3.30pm at PB Ronald Reserve, Pakenham. Take part in activities including bubble soccer or watch the annual SEL skate and BMX competition. This is a fully supervised, drug-, alcoholand smoke-free event and is supported by the Australian and Victorian governments.
Open to the public. Meetings are held in Council Chambers at Cardinia Shire Council Civic Centre, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer (unless otherwise advised. Please check Council’s website for meeting locations). Phone: 1300 787 624 Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au
Monday 20 – Council meeting
May Monday 4 – Town planning meeting Monday 18 – Council meeting
April
Thursday 16 Great songs of the war years – Daylight Entertainment 2015 marks the 100-year anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. Come and sing along with the songs of the war years. Morning tea 10am, show 11am. $15 (includes morning tea).
Saturday 18
Bee Scene @ the library 7.30–8.30pm Emerald for Sustainability presents this talk by local beekeeper Bec McBride on all things bees, followed by a screening of the film More Than Honey.
Simply Sinatra
Wednesday 20 May
May
6.30–7.30pm The Camino Way Travel writer Karen Manwaring talks about her experience walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
Friday 29 May 2.30–3.30pm Book Chat for Adults Find out what’s new and recommended, discover new authors and meet new friends.
Australian veteran of stage and screen Tom Burlinson stars in this wonderful musical production featuring over 20 of Sinatra’s greatest hits. 8pm. Adults $49, concession $45
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow This show brings the best homegrown and international discoveries and superstars from the Melbourne Comedy Festival to Pakenham. 8.30pm. Adults $38, concession $34
Sunday 10 Mother’s Day luncheon
Corner John and Henry streets, Pakenham Phone: 5940 6200
Two-course carvery lunch. Live entertainment, giveaways for mums. 12pm. Adults and children aged 13 and over $38.50, children aged 12 and under $18.50. To book contact Vista Cafe 5945 0015.
Wednesday 29 April
Saturday 16
Pakenham Library
5–6pm Explore your library’s e-resources A demonstration of how to make full use of your library’s free online resources including books, audiobooks and music. 6.30–8pm ReMinds ‘Triple M’ Nadine Shome from ReMinds presents the ‘Triple M’ challenges for children with learning difficulties.
Public holidays All Casey–Cardinia libraries will be closed on: • Anzac Day – Saturday 25 April • Queen’s Birthday – Monday 8 June
April No town planning meeting due to Easter
Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham Phone: 1300 887 624 Email: ccc@cardinia.vic.gov.au
Tuesday 14 April
Tuesday 2 June
Council meetings
Cardinia Cultural Centre
Casey–Cardinia Library Corporation operates public library services for Cardinia Shire Council in Pakenham and Emerald. Cardinia Mobile Library visits the following suburbs and townships every week: Beaconsfield, Bunyip, Cockatoo, Garfield, Gembrook, Koo Wee Rup, Lang Lang, Maryknoll, Tynong and Upper Beaconsfield. Library membership is free. For more information on library services including mobile library locations, dates and times visit cclc.vic.gov.au
51 Shades of Maggie Meet Maggie – she’s smart, streetwise and looking for love in all the wrong places. This play is a parody of the bestselling book Fifty Shades of Grey. Suitable for ages 18 and over. 7.30pm. Adults $49.90, concession $44.90
Saturday 23– Sunday 24 Picture to Page scrapbook show Featuring more than 25 traders specialising in scrapbooking, stamping, card making, paper craft and mixed media art supplies. Saturday: 9.30am–4.30pm, Sunday: 10am–3pm. Adults: $10 entry, children under 16 and reluctant husbands free. For more information visit picturetopagescrapbookshow.blogspot.com.au or facebook.com/FromPictureToPage
June Monday 1 – Town planning meeting
APRIL–MAY 2015 | 7
Feature
Council’s Compliance Services Officer Ashley Reed inspects dumped rubbish in McGregor Road, Pakenham.
Thumbs down to illegal dumping IT’S A SAD fact that the incidence of illegal rubbish dumping is on the rise in Cardinia Shire. Council is committed to tracking down the dumpers – and we are calling on you to help us. In 2009–10, Council received 548 requests to clear away illegally dumped rubbish in Cardinia Shire. By 2013–14 that number had risen to 895 requests.
their rubbish illegally, but unfortunately the criminal actions of a thoughtless few are jeopardising the health, safety and quality of life of everyone in the community.”
Council’s Compliance Services Officer Ashley Reed said while illegal dumping is an increasing problem, the good news is that more and more residents are reporting it to Council.
When illegally dumped rubbish is reported to Council, members of our Compliance Services team often go out to inspect the site in the hope of finding evidence to identify those responsible. After this inspection, staff from our Operations team remove the rubbish.
“Many Cardinia Shire community members have had enough of seeing dumped rubbish, so they’re ‘dobbing in the dumpers’,” Ashley said.
Cr Wilmot said a crew of three or four employees now spend at least one day per week clearing dumped rubbish.
In 2013−14, Council’s Operations crew spent just over 1,200 hours removing and disposing of illegally dumped rubbish around our municipality, at a cost of almost $140,000.
“Every hour and dollar spent on cleaning up and disposing of illegally dumped rubbish is time and money taken away from Council’s road and drainage maintenance works,” Cr Wilmot said.
Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot said dumped rubbish is a significant and growing expense for Council.
The Shire’s dumping ‘hotspots’ are generally isolated locations. Commonly dumped items include furniture, tyres, mattresses, clothes, dirty nappies, food waste, packaging and building materials containing asbestos. Many dumped items are hazardous and can contaminate land or pollute waterways.
“It is a huge drain on our resources and is very difficult to budget for. “Ultimately it’s ratepayers who end up footing the bill and this simply isn’t fair. I am sure very few people in our Shire would even consider dumping 8 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624
“If you witness illegal dumping or see suspicious behaviour such as vehicles loaded with rubbish heading to an area that is out-of-the-way, please note down the details and contact Council as soon as possible. “We have successfully prosecuted offenders quite recently thanks to photos and details provided by members of the public. Information you provide could be the key to bringing the culprits to justice,” he said. Dumpers risk an on-the-spot Council fine of $295. Convicted dumpers of general waste may be issued with a fine of up to $14,761, or up to one month in prison. “It’s just not worth risking a hefty fine or prosecution,” Ashley said.
Feature
Council staff who regularly remove or inspect illegally dumped rubbish include (from left to right) Backhoe Operator Paul Barnes, Relief Operator Gael Smith, Compliance Services Officer Ashley Reed, Relief Operator Sue Smith and Drainage (South) Supervisor Brendan Nunn.
DOB IN THE DUMPERS Be Council’s eyes and ears when it comes to illegal dumping. If you see rubbish being illegally dumped or witness suspicious activity, here’s what to do: • Write down the vehicle’s registration details • take note of the vehicle’s colour, make and model, the date and time of the offence and the perpetrator’s appearance • take some photos (if it is safe to do so) • don’t touch or remove the rubbish – you may put yourself in danger or remove valuable evidence • report the incident immediately. During business hours, please call Council on 1300 787 624. After hours, please log a report on the ‘Make a request or report an issue’ web page on Council’s website, or call Crimestoppers (1800 333 000) or EPA Victoria’s 24-hour pollution hotline (1300 372 842).
Cr Wilmot said Council provides plenty of ways for residents and businesses to dispose of waste safely and considerately. “We hold free hard and green waste collections twice a year and all residents can now request a green waste bin to be collected fortnightly. We also hold regular ewaste collections across the Shire. With so many waste disposal options, there is simply no excuse for dumping. “We would like to thank all residents who have taken the time to report incidences of illegal dumping to us. You are helping us tackle a significant problem for our Shire,” Cr Wilmot said.
To find out your hard waste, green waste and ewaste collection dates, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/communitycompass and type in your street address.
APRIL–MAY 2015 | 9
Connections
New smoking bans protect children
St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School students Aaron, Briella and Ashreena at the launch of the Kitchen Garden Program in Cardinia Shire.
Dirty hands, healthy kids! HEALTH and wellbeing is on the menu at six Cardinia Shire schools. Council is partnering with the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation to deliver the organisation’s renowned Kitchen Garden Program in our Shire. The program teaches children how to grow and harvest their own produce then use it to prepare and enjoy eating healthy meals. Children from selected year levels at Berwick Grammar School’s Officer campus, Officer Specialist School, and Garfield, St Patrick’s Catholic, St John’s Catholic and St Clare’s Catholic primary schools are participating in the program, which was launched at Pakenham Community Garden in February. The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program is part of Cardinia Shire’s Healthy Together Achievement Program. This program, delivered by Council, helps local education centres and workplaces to be healthier. Healthy Together is funded by the Victorian Government. Council’s Health Promotion Officer Julia Hobbs said knowing how to grow and cook healthy food plays a big part in enhancing long-term health and wellbeing.
UNDER new Victorian Government legislation, smoking will be banned outside all children’s facilities and most community buildings from 13 April. The changes will help protect young people from exposure to second-hand smoke. Smoking will not be allowed within four metres of entrances to: • childcare centres, kindergartens and schools
families and the wider Cardinia Shire community reap the benefits too.
• public hospitals and registered community health centres • some Victorian Government buildings.
“Unfortunately, only one in three children in Cardinia Shire eats the recommended amount of fruit and vegetables each day. This highlights the need for initiatives like the Kitchen Garden Program,” Julia said.
Smoking is already illegal within 10 metres of playground equipment, swimming pool complexes, skate parks and at sporting venues during organised events for people aged under 18.
The Good Guys Pakenham donated a bench-top mixer to each participating school for use in the program.
Anyone aged 18 and over found breaking these laws risks being fined or prosecuted under the Tobacco Act 1987.
For more information about the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program visit kitchengardenfoundation.org.au To find out more about Healthy Together Cardinia Shire and the Achievement Program visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/healthytogether
For more information visit health.vic.gov.au/tobaccoreforms or contact the Tobacco Information Line on 1300 136 775 or tobacco.policy@health.vic.gov.au
“The Kitchen Garden Program is all about children getting their hands dirty in the garden and heading to the kitchen to cook what they grow. We want kids to learn healthy habits early in life and gain a real understanding of how their food gets from the garden or paddock to their plates,” Julia said.
What’s in a name?
“Gardening is proven to boost mental health and wellbeing and increase physical activity. We hope the students take what they learn home so their
Scarlett (12) and Olivia (11) rounded out the top three girls’ names while Oliver (15), and Mason and Hudson (both 13) were the second and third most popular boys’ names. In total, 856 babies were born in our Shire last year.
10 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624
IS YOUR child named Sophie or Lucas? You must be on-trend; these were the most popular baby names in Cardinia Shire for 2014. Thirteen girls were named Sophie and 17 boys were named Lucas.
Connections
Joan Vogels (right) with Council’s Community Strengthening Facilitator Allison Howard. Allison supports the work of local volunteers like Joan by coordinating the annual Mayor’s Volunteer Reception, working with neighbourhood houses and community centres to provide subsidised training for volunteers, and by maintaining the ‘Connecting our Community’ online database.
Let’s hear it for Joan! VOLUNTEERS help make the world a better place. Cardinia Shire is lucky to have many residents who generously give their time and energy as volunteers. National Volunteer Week (11 to 17 May) is an opportunity to say thanks to these people and acknowledge the many ways they contribute to our community. This year’s volunteer week slogan is ‘Give happy, live happy’. Joan Vogels has dedicated 60 years to volunteering; much of this time has been devoted to organisations and projects in Cardinia Shire. The 79-year-old recently retired after an impressive 19 years on the Cardinia Shire Australia Day Advisory Committee. Joan’s commitment to her community started in her teens when she accepted a leadership role with the Girl Guides. Joan took on many positions and responsibilities in the organisation until her retirement from active involvement six decades later. Having been involved in two Probus clubs in Cardinia Shire, the Yakkerboo Festival administrator for 10 years and attended Pakenham Uniting Church for many years, she is now helping establish a fundraising group for GROW, an organisation which supports people with mental illness or depression. Joan said she met many hardworking Cardinia Shire residents during her time on the Australia Day Advisory Committee. “We are fortunate so many people who live here have great community spirit,” Joan said.
“There is no doubt that volunteering enriches your life. It’s a wonderful way to make friends, meet people with common interests and play a part in something quite special.” Local volunteers play a vital role in organisations such as sporting clubs, charities and emergency services. Mayor Cr Leticia Wilmot said selfless and dedicated residents like Joan make Cardinia Shire a great place to live, work and play. “National Volunteer Week is an opportunity for us all to let volunteers know how valuable and important they are to our community. On behalf of Council I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to our Shire’s marvellous volunteers,” Cr Wilmot said. Council supports local volunteering in many ways, including through the ‘Connecting our Community’ online database. This resource connects people with volunteering opportunities in more than 500 not-for-profit organisations. We also offer training subsidies for eligible volunteers who help the Cardinia Shire community.
Eat out, eat well COUNCIL’S Healthy Bites Program is growing, with twelve cafes and restaurants across Cardinia Shire now taking part in the program. All offer at least three healthier menu items that are low in saturated fat and salt and high in fibre. According to a recent program evaluation, three in four people dining out at Healthy Bites outlets thought more carefully about their food choices after spotting Healthy Bites stickers on the menu, and more than half of those surveyed selected a healthier menu option as a result of the program. Healthy Bites eateries are located in Beaconsfield, Bunyip, Garfield, Gembrook, Koo Wee Rup, Officer and Pakenham. For a list of participating outlets visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/healthybites
APRIL–MAY 2015 | 11
Looking forward Cr Brett Owen Ranges Ward
From your councillors
Cr Leticia Wilmot Ranges Ward
Cr Tania Baxter Ranges Ward
Phone: 0418 993 370 Email: b.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au Chandler Reserve in Emerald has been upgraded. It now has new drainage and irrigation systems, a reshaped oval, sand base, larger playing surface, perimeter fence, cricket pitch and three cricket nets. The oval is now one of which we can be proud.
Phone: 0427 135 879 Email: L.Wilmot@cardinia.vic.gov.au April is certainly the time for festivals with two of the Shire’s biggest events happening during this month.
Council has engaged with an external consultant to drive the community engagement process around the design and development of Emerald Community Hub. We encourage everyone to be involved.
Yakkerboo Festival’s family fun day is on 19 April, and be sure not to miss its art show from 29 to 31 May. For details visit yakkerboo.org.au
Emerald’s PAVE Festival runs from 9 to 19 April with more than 50 events to enjoy; for details visit pave.org.au
Cr Collin Ross Central Ward
Phone: 0427 528 358 Email: t.baxter@cardinia.vic.gov.au Congratulations to those who helped to organise Anzac centenary commemorations, in particular Emerald and Cockatoo RSLs for their outstanding efforts in relation to Emerald’s Anzac Walk and the upcoming Cockatoo Anzac weekend expo. I’d like to acknowledge Beaconsfield Progress Association for the new bronze plaques at the entrance of Beaconsfield Park and Officer Community Association for their efforts on the relocation of the commemorative gates at Officer Recreation Reserve.
Cr George Blenkhorn Central Ward
Phone: 0428 598 491 Email: c.ross@cardinia.vic.gov.au As promised when elected I will again vote against the 5.50 per cent rate increase. I have listened to your number one concern and for the seventh year in a row I will vote against the rate increase. Residents with rising costs of living need an affordable increase. I hope all residents have enjoyed a safe and happy Easter break.
Phone: 0429 139 902 Email: g.blenkhorn@cardinia.vic.gov.au Council has two hard waste collections each year, but still some residents dump their hard waste on roadsides around the Shire. This is illegal, unsafe and looks very unpleasant. Illegal dumping costs Council about $150,000 per year; this is ratepayers’ money wasted. If you see someone illegally dumping rubbish please take their vehicle registration details and report the incident to Council.
Cr Kate Lempriere Central Ward Phone: 0427 371 263 Email: k.lempriere@cardinia.vic.gov.au Attended the Audit Committee. All’s well financially! Have attended Town Planning and Council meetings. Assisting residents in Beaconsfield, Lakeside, Pakenham Upper and in Ahern Road, Pakenham. Promoted and financially supported art delivery throughout Cardinia Shire. Voted to re-appoint Cardinia Shire’s CEO Garry McQuillan for a further four-year term. Attended Municipal Association Victoria Financial Assistance Grants and Rate Capping Taskforce. Attended briefings on road safety, family violence, youth and Council’s Community Grants Fund.
Cr Graeme Moore Port Ward
Cr Jodie Owen Central Ward Phone: 0427 294 893 Email: j.owen@cardinia.vic.gov.au Council is developing its first Reconciliation Action Plan to meet the needs of, and better engage with, Aboriginal people and their communities in Cardinia Shire. We are also committed to creating an age-friendly community in line with the World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Cities framework. Cardinia Shire is working so positively with so many diverse groups in the Shire.
Cr David Young Port Ward
Phone: 0400 167 844 Email: g.moore@cardinia.vic.gov.au Pakenham Show was held in March. Congratulations to its organisers for a job very well done and especially for incorporating the Festival of Nations event. We are looking forward to the opening of Toomah Community Centre, which will be a fantastic community facility. Please support Neighbourhood House Week from 11 to 17 May and don’t forget our wonderful community event Yakkerboo Festival on Sunday 19 April – it has something for everybody!
Phone: 0427 455 798 Email: d.young@cardinia.vic.gov.au Summer has been mild but humid; a pleasant summer for most farmers. 2015 marks 100 years since the Gallipoli landing, one of the most significant events in Australian history. Special memorial services will be held across Port Ward on Anzac Day, on which we commemorate the servicemen and women who have served this nation. I am proud that Port Ward has so many residents who volunteer. Council will recognise them during Volunteer Week in May.
Views expressed in ‘Looking forward’ are those of the Ward councillors.
Cardinia Shire Ranges Ward • Avonsleigh • Beaconsfield • Beaconsfield Upper • Clematis • Cockatoo • Dewhurst • Emerald
• Gembrook • Guys Hill • Menzies Creek • Mount Burnett • Nangana • Officer • Pakenham Upper
12 | cardinia.vic.gov.au 1300 787 624
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 • Pakenham • Rythdale • Tonimbuk • Tooradin • Tynong • Tynong North • Vervale • Yannathan