Whitehorse News | April 2024

Driving into golf paradise

Your ultimate guide to the new Morack Public Golf page 8

WHITEHORSE NEWS

April 2024

• Back-to-back

Whitehorse wins another Snap

Send Solve honour page 3

• Food safety stars

The annual winners of our 5 Star Food Safe Awards page 4

Shaping Whitehorse – have your say page 9

• Fresh faces

Meet Aqualink’s new personal trainers page 6

• The beloved gem

Come inside Box Hill Community Arts Centre page 7

Contact Whitehorse City Council

Whitehorse City Council, Locked Bag 2, Nunawading, VIC 3131

customer.service@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Phone: 9262 6333 Fax: 9262 6490

NRS: 133 677 then quote 9262 6333

Follow Whitehorse City Council on Facebook

Customer service centres

Whitehorse Civic Centre

Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm

Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre

Tuesday to Friday, 9am-1pm

Box Hill Town Hall

Tuesday to Friday, 9am-1pm

Council meetings

▪ Monday 15 April, 7pm

▪ Monday 29 April, 7pm

All meetings are open to the public and are held in the Council Chamber in the Whitehorse Civic Centre.

Council meetings are live streamed at webcast. whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Sustainability

Whitehorse News is printed on paper manufactured at a PEFC and FSC Certified Paper Mill and is produced using soy-based inks.

Whitehorse News online

Sign up to our e-version and read the Whitehorse News online at whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ whitehorse-news

Information correct at time of printing: Tuesday 26 March 2024.

Acknowledgement of Country

Whitehorse City Council acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the land. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Translation services

For free interpreting assistance, call 131 450. Mention the language you speak and ask to be connected to Whitehorse City Council.

如需免费的口译协助服务，请拨 打电话 131 450。接通后请说出您 的母语，并要求转接到 Whitehorse 市议会。

Để được hỗ trợ thông dịch miễn phí, hãy gọi số 131 450. Nêu tên ngôn ngữ quý vị nói và đề nghị được kết nối với Whitehorse City Council.

Για δωρεάν υπηρεσίες διερμηνέα τηλεφωνήστε στο 131 450. Δηλώστε τη γλώσσα που μιλάτε και ζητήστε να συνδεθείτε με το Whitehorse City Council.

Per l‘assistenza gratuita di un interprete chiamare il 131 450. Specificare la propria lingua e chiedere di parlare con il Whitehorse City Council.

Out and about with the Mayor

Cr

Denise Massoud

This month, I visited the Blackburn Tennis Club to meet some of the players who attend group lessons run by coach Andrew Caldwell. This team includes players from Burke and Beyond, a registered disability provider that seeks out opportunities for members of our community with intellectual disabilities to improve their wellbeing through fitness and other ways. Thanks to a grant from Tennis Victoria, the lessons have been running for almost a year, and Andrew hopes to continue the program into the future.

Blackburn Tennis Club isn’t the only club in Whitehorse that supports greater inclusivity for our community members to get involved in sport. We are incredibly lucky to have the Blackburn Football Club, which now has two women’s teams operating that include players who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing. Although it’s been a learning experience, Felicity Langton, a player since 2018, told me a great moment of connection for the players was to learn the club song in sign language and also to be given nicknames in sign language, which helps everyone communicate quickly and easily on and off the field. During the matches, umpires also use sign language to communicate decisions. Another club demonstrating a commitment to greater inclusivity is Nunawading Basketball. It has partnered with Special Olympics Australia and members of its Eastern Ranges branch play on Nunawading’s courts every week, as well as being part of an annual tournament. CEO Mark Hallett is continuing to look for more opportunities to provide players with a disability a chance to play on their courts. Mark tells me to watch this space!

Advocating for Whitehorse

Three Whitehorse-based community volunteer groups have received approximately $150,000 funding towards their projects through the State Government’s Green Links grant program.

Bungalook Nursery, Blackburn Lake Sanctuary Advisory Committee and KooyongKoot Alliance will use the funding to improve vegetation in the Central Road wetlands at Blackburn Lake Sanctuary and expand the green corridor at Gardiners Creek Reserve.

The funding will allow the groups to undertake weeding, maintenance and hold planting days for their projects. It will lead to planting of about 15,000 new local indigenous trees, shrubs and ground storey plants at the two locations.

Council will support the projects and looks forward to working alongside these groups to achieve important environmental benefits for the community.

Cover: Tony from Creekside Golf Club tees off on Morack Public Golf’s new driving range. Photographer: Wren Steiner.

Another win at the Snap Send Solve awards!

Council is delighted to have won Victoria's ‘Snapper‘s Choice Award’ from reporting app Snap Send Solve for the second year in a row.

The Snap Send Solve app operates on Apple and Android phones and devices. It allows users to snap a photo of an issue and send it through to Council to act on. We then pass these onto our service teams to promptly act on the requests, which can include addressing graffiti, dumped rubbish or fallen tree branches.

In 2023, our teams responded to more than 22,000 reports lodged through the Snap Send Solve app.

This award was voted on by the community, with thousands of app users having their say on the operators that impressed them during 2023. Council won the public vote

from a field of 217 organisations (including 85 other councils) in Victoria who can be reached via the app.

Mayor Denise Massoud thanked app users for their support and the Whitehorse community for embracing Snap Send Solve as a reporting tool.

She said receiving the award for a second year in a row was “a fantastic reflection of the hard work and collaboration that happens across Council to address community concerns”.

“This award is a credit to everyone and reflects the growing importance of digital channels to our customers,” Cr Massoud said.

Anzac Day 2024 services

Council is proud to be supporting our local RSL sub-branches for Anzac Day commemorations on Thursday 25 April.

Councillors will attend various services. Please feel free to contact the RSLs with any enquiries about their commemorations.

Blackburn RSL

Service: Cenotaph at Morton Park, Central Road, Blackburn

Gunfire Breakfast: Blackburn RSL, 2 Diggers Way, Blackburn

Box Hill RSL

Service: Cenotaph at Box Hill Gardens, Shipley Street, Box Hill

Gunfire Breakfast: Box Hill RSL 26-28 Nelson Road, Box Hill

Rotary Club of Mitcham

Service: Cenotaph at Halliday Park, 310 Mitcham Road, Mitcham

Join the City Nature Challenge

We need you to help us showcase Whitehorse’s remarkable urban biodiversity in this month's City Nature Challenge. The challenge runs from Friday 26 April to Monday 29 April.

Take part in one of the world’s biggest community science events by taking photos of local plants, animals, fungi and insects in your local area, and uploading them to the iNaturalist app on your phone or smart device.

You can also join one of our free community events throughout April, where you can learn about exciting parts of our environment such as insects and all about citizen science.

L Learn more and check out our events by searching ‘City Nature Challenge’ on Council’s website.

Gunfire Breakfast: Mitcham Bowling Club, 306 Mitcham Road, Mitcham

Wattle Park Heritage Group

Service: Patriotic Area, Wattle Park (opposite entry to Chalet)

Light refreshments to follow

Surrey Hills and Mont Albert Progress Association

Service: The Shrine, Surrey Gardens, 88-90 Union Road, Surrey Hills

Whitehorse City Council CEO Simon McMillan and Mayor Denise Massoud

Members of Council's City Services team with our Snap Send Solve award

L Find out how to download and use the app to report the issues you see throughout Whitehorse by searching ‘Snap Send Solve’ on Council’s website.

5 Star Food Safe Program Awards: Excellence in Food Safety

We are delighted to present the annual winners of our 5 Star Food Premises of the Year Awards. The program aims to improve food safety and provides valuable information to Council, businesses and the community. It also offers a range of reward and recognition incentives.

Nominations were received throughout 2023 in three different categories and assessed by Council’s Environmental Health Officers. Mayor Denise Massoud visited the winners recently to present them with their awards. Congratulations to the winners and all businesses in Whitehorse that have achieved a 5 Star rating, which demonstrates their strong commitment to achieving high standards in food safety.

L Find out about more local businesses that have achieved excellence and obtained a 5 Star rating by visiting the ‘eHealth Portal’ on Council’s website.

Shopping Strip Spotlight: Rooks Road/Beech Street Shops

Location: Corner of Rooks Road and Beech Street, Nunawading

Number of traders: 7

Services: Cafe, fish and chips, tile shop, printers

Parking and nearby transport: 11 parking spaces on Rooks Road, off-street parking on Beech Street. Also serviced by bus route 738.

What do you love the most about your shopping strip?

“Operating my business in Rooks Road is a joy thanks to the supportive community and collaborative spirit. Our loyal customers amplify our craft and celebrate entrepreneurship, ensuring our success. I am grateful to be part of this vibrant tapestry.”

– Karita Brokenshire, Sew Hoes

Save the date: Digital Day Out

Get ready to ignite your business growth here in Whitehorse at the Digital Day Out, an event by Melbourne Innovation Centre that is proudly sponsored by Council.

Join us on Thursday 27 June at The Round in Nunawading for an immersive experience that will help you grow your business with key actionable takeaways to implement straight away.

Pre-sale tickets are now available for a limited time –you can scan the QR code to register your interest.

The Melbourne Innovation Centre also runs the government-subsidised Digital Solutions Program, which includes courses to help small business owners elevate their digital knowledge.

L Find out more by searching ‘Digital Solutions Program’ at wbiz.com.au

Class 1 – Choklits Child Care Surrey Hills

Class 2 – Schnitz Burwood One

Class 2 – Community Group –Dot’s Cafe at Our Lady of Sion College

Help us further improve our Easy Ride Routes

Want to receive a $50 gift card just for riding your bike and exploring Whitehorse? Register your interest for our Easy Ride Routes evaluation panel.

We’re keen to bust the myth that you must be of a certain age or fitness level to use a bike to get around. That’s why we launched our Easy Ride Routes network in 2023.

The Easy Ride Routes use quiet local streets and off-road paths. They aim to help make cycling for short trips safe and comfortable.

Now that the Easy Ride Routes have been available to the community for almost a year, we’re doing an evaluation to see where we can improve them.

We’re looking for a number of Whitehorse locals aged 18 or older with different riding abilities to join our evaluation panel. Selected panel participants will ride parts of the Easy Ride Routes and give us their feedback. In return, they will receive a $50 gift card for their efforts.

L Visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au to learn more and submit your expression of interest by Friday 12 April.

Tell us what matters to you when it comes to waste

We’re working on our next action plan that will guide how we deliver waste services over the next five years, so we can achieve targets set in our Waste Management Strategy.

This plan will include our actions to support and enable our community to divert the most waste they can from landfill.

When it comes to waste, we want to know:

▪ What is most important to you?

▪ What resources and education would be most helpful?

What you can expect in the consultation

Council’s Waste Management Strategy 2018-2028 was endorsed in 2018 with a five-year action plan.

In this consultation, we’re sharing successes and progress over the past five years, and presenting a summary of State Government policy, legislation changes and targets for recycling and waste management across Victoria.

The State Government is standardising household waste and recycling services across Victoria by 2030. This includes the introduction of the food organics and garden organics (FOGO) service and glass recycling service to all households.

L We’re asking you about your waste management needs to help inform our next action plan. Have your say at yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au by Tuesday 30 April.

How can we communicate with you better?

We are undertaking a review of our marketing and communications service, and we want your feedback.

We are seeking input from our community to understand how our marketing and communications performs, what we do well, and what we can improve.

Your experiences, feedback, ideas and opinions will be critical in helping us define what great communications looks like for our community.

The marketing and communications being covered in this review include our website, direct mail, social media channels, community events and service promotions, publications, news and media and more.

Please scan the QR code and provide us with your feedback by Wednesday 17 April.

Pups in Parks: Behaviour basics with RSPCA and Council

Do you want to better understand your furry friend‘s behaviour so you can be more confident walking and playing around other dogs?

After kicking off last month, Pups in Parks is continuing in April with more free behaviour basics sessions throughout Whitehorse. Join a qualified pet behaviourist from the RSPCA and our Council staff to interpret your pet’s reactions to other dogs and prevent anti-social or aggressive behaviour.

These sessions are open to dogs of all ages and their owners with no bookings required.

Join us for these two sessions in April:

▪ East Burwood Reserve, Wednesday 10 April, 5pm-7pm

▪ Mahoney’s Reserve, Forest Hill, Saturday 27 April, 10am-12pm

Reminder to dog and cat owners. Make sure your furry friends are registered with Council. Pet registration renewals for dogs and cats three months of age or over are due by Wednesday 10 April. For more details and to register your pet, visit whitehorse.vic.gov.au/pet-registration

Meet Aqualink’s new personal trainers

Aqualink is delighted to welcome six new personal trainers on board.

Sandi is a former elite powerlifter who specialises in muscle and strength development. Nigel’s specialties include sports conditioning, weight loss, bodybuilding and overall health. Matt excels in sports conditioning, weight loss and keeping you motivated towards achieving your goals.

Josh can help you with muscle gain, strength training and mobility, while Dwayne is passionate about educating and supporting clients across weight loss, body building and postural correction. Finally, Cam is also a go-to trainer for improving your posture, boxing and tailored programs.

You can kick-start your fitness journey with a PT Starter Park for $99.

L Visit aqualink.com.au to book sessions with our new trainers and explore the excellent facilities at our Nunawading and Box Hill centres.

THE ROUND’S PICK OF THE MONTH

The Wharf Revue

Third and final show on sale now!

After two sold-out performances, we’re delighted to announce a third and final show for The Wharf Revue’s 2024 production Pride in Prejudice.

The Wharf Revue has been performed annually for more than 20 years, and is a laugh-out loud satire of our politicians and public figures in sketches and songs. 2025 will be the final production from the team, so be sure to catch this fantastic show while you still can!

This year’s production features performers Jonathan Biggins, Mandy Bishop, Drew Forsythe, David Whitney and Michael Tyack.

Saturday 27 April, 7.30pm – tickets range from $30-$66.

Other highlights at The Round this month:

▪ DIVA – Queenie van de Zandt –Wednesday 17 April, 11am

▪ Underground Cabaret: Mama Alto –Thursday 18 April, 8pm

▪ Humans 2.0 by Circa –Saturday 20 April, 7.30pm

▪ Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow – Wednesday 24 April, 7.30pm

Venue hire

Did you know you can hire spaces at The Round for your special event? Whether it‘s a conference, party, awards night or a wedding, our team can cater for all occasions.

Congratulations to Mitcham Cricket Club, which held its 140th anniversary dinner for 180 guests at The Round last month.

For more information and bookings visit: theround.com.au

Box Office: 9262 6555

Cam

Josh

Nigel Sandi

Matt Dwayne

Come inside Box Hill’s beloved cultural gem

A cultural gem in the heart of Whitehorse is the Box Hill Community Arts Centre, a vibrant hub for artistic expression, creativity and community engagement. The centre offers a diverse range of programs, workshops and events that cater to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a thriving cultural scene within the local community.

With its uniquely memorable facilities and inclusive atmosphere, the centre provides a welcoming space for artists, performers and enthusiasts to collaborate, learn and showcase

School Holiday Program

Our program for preschoolers to teens celebrates their talents in a supportive environment. Activities include ceramics, painting, drawing, mosaics and our always popular art days, led by skilled tutors. Expect skill-building, fun and self-expression in our well-equipped studios! Secure your spot now.

Seeking garden volunteers

Are you passionate about gardening?

Share your skills and interests with us! Join a dedicated team of like-minded people to enhance our centre’s gardens and make a meaningful impact in the community.

L Register your interest in joining the team at bchac@whitehorse.vic.gov.au or call 9895 8888 (Wed-Fri)

their talents, enriching the cultural landscape of Whitehorse and beyond. Book now for our Term 2 and Autumn programs

Activate your artistic side this autumn by joining our creative, lifestyle and performing arts classes and workshops. From ceramics to dance and printmaking, there is something for all ages and all abilities.

L Head to creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au for the full list and to make bookings.

In our Gallery this month

FREE

Liz Millsom – Ecological

Tuesday 16 April to Sunday 28 April

Opening Celebration: Friday 19 April 5pm to 7pm

In 'Ecological', artist Liz Millsom delves into themes of conservation and ecology within the Australian environment.

Venue hire

Nestled in picturesque gardens, Box Hill Community Arts Centre provides six versatile spaces for hire, perfect for meetings, performances, exhibitions, and family or community celebrations. Complete with on-site kitchen facilities and convenient kitchenettes, we ensure your event is unforgettable.

Alcove Art Shop

Looking for the perfect unique artisan gift? The Alcove Art Shop is an artist-run cooperative that sells original works. All items are created by the artists and works on offer change regularly.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 3pm

WHERE GOLF AND GOOD TIMES MEET

Mini golf

Imagine a full-sized 18-hole golf course shrunk down to fun size!

No windmills or clowns – just a pure putting experience for you and your crew to battle it out for victory!

▪ Choose from the white (easier) or black (harder) course (both 18 holes).

▪ Groups can be up to six players and all under 13s need to be supervised.

▪ Bring your own putter or use one of ours for free.

We are proud to announce the completion of the redeveloped Morack Public Golf in Vermont South. It was officially opened by Mayor Denise Massoud last month along with a celebratory ‘Tee Off’ weekend of activities.

Council invested $12.1 million in the redevelopment with funding also committed by the course’s new operator, Swing Factory, for fit-out of facilities and the mini golf course.

Three key attractions have been added alongside Morack’s existing 18-hole golf course:

▪ A rebuilt multipurpose pavilion with function spaces, a golf shop and new food and drink offerings

‘Club House’ and ‘Café M’.

▪ A redeveloped 28-bay driving range.

▪ A new architecturally designed 18-hole mini golf course.

“These upgrades and new additions will reaffirm Morack Public Golf as one of the best and most loved courses in Melbourne’s east and allow it to be enjoyed by generations of families to come,” Cr Massoud said.

Driving range

Our rebuilt driving range boasts 28 bays with the industry-leading TopTracer Range technology, offering interactive games, ball-tracking and statistics.

Some of the bays can be used by groups of up to four people.

▪ All bookings include unlimited balls for a chosen timeslot.

▪ Bring your own clubs or hire some from us (irons $5, woods $8).

▪ Options include eight ‘Lounge’ bays and a ‘Mega’ bay. Bays can have food and drinks delivered directly to you.

Pavilion

The rebuilt pavilion at Morack is where you can check in for your rounds of golf or sessions on the driving range.

It’s also home to our golf shop to get all the latest gear, our two new food and drink offerings, and function spaces for parties and events.

▪ The ‘Club House’ offers small bites and favourites such as burgers, nachos and woodfired pizzas. It also boasts a relaxing lounge area.

▪ ‘Cafe M’ dishes up coffees, milkshakes and smoothies alongside snacks, graband-go hot food and breakfast items.

Prices start from $10 for children, $16.50 for adults, $11.50 for seniors and $40 for families (saver rates).

Prices begin at $19 for 30 minutes for individuals and $30 for 60 minutes for groups (saver rates).

For bookings (contactless and online only), opening times and more information: morackpublicgolf.com.au

Phone: 9801 4479

Email: morack@swingfactory.com.au

View the menus online at morackpublicgolf.com.au

Follow Morack Public Golf on social media

Mayor Denise Massoud and Cr Raylene Carr on Morack Public Golf’s mini golf course.

Your ideas can shape our city’s future

Join us at one of our Shaping Whitehorse pop-up sessions happening this month.

Share your insights and perspectives to help review and shape the Council‘s critical plans, including the 2025/26 Budget, for the next four years. Your input can make a meaningful difference in our community.

Thursday

Sunday

Wednesday 24 April 11am – 2pm Britannia Mall –Mitcham

Unable to attend the pop-up session or complete the form online? No problem! You can pick up a hard copy of the survey at our libraries, leisure centres or customer service centres.

By participating in this survey, you will be able to nominate yourself for the Shaping Whitehorse Community Panel. This panel will consist of 50 members and start in August. However, selection is not guaranteed. You will be notified if chosen.

L Don't miss out! The survey closes on Sunday 5 May. For more details, please visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ shaping-whitehorse

Whitehorse City Council is divided into 11 single-councillor wards. Our Councillors have been elected to serve until October 2024.

Cootamundra Ward

Cr Andrew Munroe 0429 138 140 andrew.munroe@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Eley Ward

Cr Trudy Skilbeck 0435 188 822 trudy.skilbeck@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Elgar Ward

Cr Blair Barker 0459 857 280 blair.barker@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Kingsley Ward

Cr Amanda McNeill 0435 158 360 amanda.mcneill@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Simpson Ward

Cr Prue Cutts 0409 867 540 prue.cutts@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Walker Ward

Cr Ben Stennett 0448 375 937 ben.stennett@whitehorse.vic.gov.au J

Lake Ward

Cr Denise Massoud – Mayor 0409 230 499 denise.massoud@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

I very much enjoyed participating in the Deaf Awareness Night held by Blackburn Football Club.

I was surprised to learn that signing language differs across the globe and also fascinated to understand how communication occurs on the field during a match for Deaf and hard-of-hearing players and support staff. There is clearly a lot of support for this initiative at Blackburn FC and I am keen to watch their progress.

Sunday 3 March was a busy day at Blackburn Lake. It commenced with Clean Up Australia Day where community members collected over 70kg of litter. Most pleasing was the fact that we collected less waste compared to that in 2023, so well done to the community for reduced litter in 2024! Let’s continue on the path of reducing our litter.

Jazz at the Lake followed in the afternoon and was extremely well attended. I estimate up to 1000 people enjoyed perfect weather, great music and good company with friends and family. It was such a wonderful way to catch up and even share a dance. Another enjoyable task was presenting leadership badges to students who will be excellent role models at Blackburn Lake Primary School.

Wattle Ward

Cr Andrew Davenport – Deputy Mayor 0407 652 145 andrew.davenport@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

National Tree Day – 28 July 2024

Mark your calendars for the upcoming National Tree Day on 28 July 2024. This year, we‘re excited to announce a tree planting initiative along Gardiners Creek, near the Box Hill Golf Course. We encourage the community to join us in this meaningful event. Your participation truly makes a difference, and together, we can create a positive, lasting impact.

Utilise library resources electronically!

As valued members of the Whitehorse Manningham Library, you have access to a wealth of online resources, including ebooks, eAudio books, electronic magazines, newspapers, and the popular LinkedIn Learning. To unlock these resources, simply download the Whitehorse Manningham Library app on your Apple or Android device or visit wml.vic.gov.au/Services/eLibrary

Positive Ageing Survey results

A heartfelt thank you to the more than 1000 participants who contributed to the Positive Ageing in Whitehorse survey. The survey results, along with an additional questionnaire, can be found at yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ positive-ageing. We invite your feedback by 29 April 2024 as we work together to enhance the positive ageing experience in our community.

Whitehorse Community Grants –empower your organisation!

You can match your ward area to one of the councillors in the map.

Outside of Lake Ward, I attended Music In The Park at Cootamundra Walk with music provided by Blackburn High students, presented to Year 4 classes at Orchard Grove Primary School and PLC about what Council does, I opened Morack Golf and tested the driving bay and mini golf offerings and, at The Round, I listened to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Looking to make a significant impact in your community organisation? Consider applying for a Whitehorse Community Grant, offering funding ranging from $1000 to $10,000 across various categories. For more details and to submit your application, please visit whitehorse.vic.gov.au/about-council/ grants-community

Let's work together to continue to build a stronger, more vibrant community!

F Mahoneys Ward

Cr Mark Lane 0435 387 526 mark.lane@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

The year seems to be going so fast –it really does seem that time goes faster as we get older!

There has been a lot happening in recent weeks, including: Matsudo Student visit, Open Space plan is progressing along with the Tally Ho Structure planning, the budget is moving along for 2024/25 and the opening of the Morack Golf Course redevelopment has taken place. The redevelopment of the sportsfield at Vermont Reserve is also now complete, with the pavilion and lighting areas in their early planning phases.

Strathdon House precinct remains a focal point with the Repair Café (every second Saturday of the month) attracting many people and the Culture Fest a big hit (formerly Harmony Day).

I would love to hear from you with ideas and thoughts on what would make Mahoneys an even better place to live, work and play. Please send me an email with your thoughts and hopes for our great part of the city.

International Women’s Day was another great success with around 250 people in attendance. Congratulations to all involved and the great speakers on the day.

Stephens Reserve

You will hear more soon on the creation of the Friends of Stephens Reserve group. This group will have an interest in what happens in Stephens Reserve and provide Council with feedback on what could/should be done.

I hope you have had a great Easter break with family and friends. Take care and I hope to see you around Mahoneys Ward and don’t forget to say hi!

HCr Tina Liu 0418 121 357 tina.liu@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

I hope everyone had a nice and peaceful Easter break.

I had the pleasure of presenting at the International Women’s Day event at Box Hill High School. It was great to meet and speak with the students, parents and teachers. We celebrated the wonderful achievements of girls and women and also discussed some of the challenges still faced by many. I was particularly impressed and inspired by the Year 12 student panellists who spoke about their experiences as young people in today’s world, as well as their hopes and aspirations for the future. Thank you again to Box Hill High School for inviting me to take part in such an engaging and insightful conversation. Recently, I also attended the official opening of Box Hill headspace. During my term as Mayor in 2021-2022, I had strongly advocated for a headspace facility in Box Hill to better provide mental health support for Whitehorse’s youth. I am pleased to say that the new headspace site, located in Prospect St (Box Hill), is now open and accessible to young people in Whitehorse.

I want to take this opportunity to also thank members of our community, including our Youth Representative Committee – past and present – who reached out to me to discuss how we can better address youth mental health and wellbeing. For more information on headspace, visit: headspace.org.au/ headspace-centres/box-hill

Whitehorse Community Grants Program is now open. There are many community and not-for-profit organisations out there doing wonderful work in Whitehorse, and we want to support you! If you have a program that addresses recreational, cultural, social and/or sustainable needs in our community, you may be eligible for Council funding. Applications close 7 April 2024. For more information and/or to apply, visit: whitehorse.vic.gov.au/about-council/ grants-community

Take care and until next time, Tina

Terrara Ward

I Sparks Ward

Cr Raylene Carr 0400 886 889

raylene.carr@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

As Chair of the Visual Arts Committee, I would like to pay tribute to long-time member Keith Lesselyoung, who passed away just prior to Christmas.

At a celebration of his life, all acknowledged Keith‘s incredible talent and invaluable commitment to the Visual Arts Committee over many decades. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind, Keith will be sadly missed.

In February I spent a very enjoyable afternoon at the Vermont South Cricket Club attending its Ladies‘ day luncheon and in March had the pleasure of attending a committee meeting of the Bill Sewart Athletics Association to discuss various issues it has on the forthcoming East Burwood Master Plan. We were able to discuss in detail their issues, not the least of which is the resurfacing of the running track which is in urgent need of repair. I gave an undertaking to follow up and provide them with answers asap.

I have also had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the sensational Morack Golf Pavilion. I highly recommend a visit if you have the time.

The opening in March of the Vermont South Club extension was very welcome. This has been a long time coming and I worked for many years to have this included in Council’s capital works program and consider this one of my proudest achievements.

I wish to acknowledge David Dressing for his involvement and encouragement in the early days and Ken George in more recent times, not forgetting Michael Sukkar MP for his valuable advocacy that secured the funding from the Federal Government to give the extension a kick start.

Wishing you a happy Easter. Hoping you are able to celebrate the true meaning of Easter, which is happiness and gratitude.

Spotlight on Eley Ward with Cr Trudy Skilbeck

The Eley Ward community has grown since this Council term started, and it is my privilege to represent the long-standing and the new elements of Eley life.

There were no Burwood Brickworks precinct residents in 2020. By April 2024, around 2,000 new residents have joined us in Eley. The awardwinning John Flynn Retirement Village in the Brickworks precinct celebrated its official opening on 13 March.

The transformation of the Rooftop Farm at Burwood Brickworks is a great news story of the past 12 months, with Cultivating Community getting the farm in fantastic working order and engaging with a wonderful range of local community groups.

Watch out for their free community workshops and other news at cultivatingcommunity.org.au/ urban-rooftop-farm-burwood Wurundjeri Walk almost traverses Eley Ward, east to west. The first event of the new Friends of Wurundjeri Walk group was held in March as part of Clean Up Australia Day efforts. Around a dozen volunteers removed a sizeable amount of rubbish and recycling covering the entire walk from Finch Place near Blackburn Road to Christies Road near Middleborough Road. Contact friendsofwurundjeriwalk@ gmail.com to connect with this enthusiastic group.

Improvements in Eley are constant. Some are very recent (path upgrades in Wurundjeri Walk, revamped steps leading up to Eley Park’s main oval) and some are coming next financial year (Ballyshannassy Park’s pathway from Crow Street, and some upgraded

seating/fencing and tree planting in the reserve). I want to underline the integrated approach that Council takes. We do not simply ‘plonk’ something into a spot. We activate precinct planning that considers community preferences, environmental gains, formal sport needs, dog recreation, and collaboration with the community strengthening efforts of others.

Council appreciates all the feedback and community-mindedness of those who live, work or play in Eley.

Get involved in the 2024 Built Environment Showcase

Nominations are now open for our biennial Built Environment Showcase.

Once every two years, the community gathers to celebrate success in greening our built environment. This exciting event celebrates great design and creative thinking in Whitehorse.

We encourage you to nominate a project you believe enhances our local neighbourhood character through good-quality design. Award-winning designs will embrace sustainability, innovative ideas and a commitment to the future.

To nominate, you can be a resident, industry professional, designer or property owner. The building can be one you live in, own, have designed, built or one that you have seen on your walk around the neighbourhood with great design features.

If you see a building, renovation or design that you think deserves recognition, make sure you nominate them before Monday 29 April. Successful submissions will be presented at our Built Environment Showcase event, and standout projects will also be acknowledged and promoted in Council media.

L Search ‘Built Environment Showcase’ on Council’s website to make a nomination and learn more about this year‘s event.

Green Living Champion: Elizabeth, Surrey Hills

Meet Elizabeth, our latest Green Living Champion and the recent recipient of one of Council’s Civic Awards for a lifetime of volunteering in the community.

Elizabeth in her 90s and a retired biological scientist and educator who values Australia’s open, sunny and green lifestyle. Elizabeth is doing many sustainable living actions – including having rooftop solar, composting garden waste and food scraps, insulating her house to improve comfort and energy efficiency, and restricting the use of plastics.

When it comes to gardening, Elizabeth has a small vegetable patch and grows lettuce, snow peas, silverbeet, tomatoes and beans. She also has lots of trees and shrubs, including lilly pillies, to cool her home and increase privacy.

Elizabeth has spent a lifetime volunteering and has been involved in community groups that have advocated to all levels of government to retain, maintain and improve open space. “I have learnt, and it is also supported by research, that green open space is really important for the development of children, including their mental development,” Elizabeth said.

Here are some of Elizabeth's tips for your own sustainable living journey:

▪ Join a group whose interest overlap with yours. As Helen Keller said –“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”.

▪ Work with others.

▪ Even as a volunteer, be prepared for some setbacks, and stay in for long-term outcomes.

L Find out more about Elizabeth’s journey by searching ‘Green Living Champions’ on Council’s website.

More ways to earn cash for recycling your containers

Sustainable Living events in April

Check out these local workshops and activities to help care for our environment and create a healthy climate for a better future.

All events are free, but bookings are essential –search ‘Sustainable Living 2024’ on Council’s website.

Drop and Swap clothing exchange

Saturday 6 April, 11am-1pm

Box Hill Community Arts Centre

Repair Café: Official opening

Saturday 13 April, 10am-2pm

Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct, Forest Hill

Easy solar and batteries with Solar Savers

Thursday 18 April, 6.30pm-7.30pm

Nunawading Library

Sustainable living for renters

Sunday 21 April, 1.30pm-4pm

Box Hill Community Arts Centre

Whitehorse residents now have another way to get a 10c refund on their eligible beverage containers as part of the Container Deposit Scheme.

Two Reverse Vending Machines have been installed and are available for use at Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre (pictured) and Box Hill Central Shopping Centre

They are both open from 7am-8pm daily, except for Good Friday and Christmas Day.

These two new locations join the high-speed sorting outlet at the Environbank Depot in Rooks Road, Nunawading, and many over-thecounter locations across Whitehorse.

L Find a refund point near you and for a list of eligible containers visit cdsvic.org.au

Introducing our Positive Ageing Connect and Support Service

We have introduced a new service to assist you to connect to information, support networks and your community.

Our Positive Ageing Connect and Support team members are here to listen and help you discover the many options available to you. We can help in the following ways:

▪ Connect you to social groups and community programs and activities.

▪ Help you learn about the aged care system including the intake and assessment process.

▪ Find out about local service providers, carer support services and networks.

▪ Refer you directly to advocacy and support services, such as the Federal Government-funded Care Finder Network or Access and Support Service.

L Want to get involved or receive a call from our Connect and Support team? Email us at positiveageing@whitehorse.vic.gov.au, phone Council’s customer service team on 9262 6333, or search ‘Positive Ageing’ on Council’s website.

Complete our new Positive Ageing survey

The Positive Ageing team held our inaugural expo at The Round on Thursday 29 February which attracted more than 140 people from various community groups.

We discussed the results of our Positive Ageing Whitehorse survey from last year, which was completed by more than 1000 participants.

A faster, five-minute survey is now available to help us understand more about community priorities around the key themes raised. You can also complete the survey over the phone or request a paper copy by contacting the team. Visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au by Monday 29 April to complete the survey and have your say.

Active April in Whitehorse

Join in free programs and events for people of all ages, abilities and fitness levels and increase your physical activity during April.

Find your own way to be active by checking out the content on the Get Active Victoria app and website.

L Download the program from the Positive Ageing page on Council’s website or collect a printed program from our customer service centres.

Daylight Savings ends on Sunday 7 April

Daylight Savings time finishes at 3am on Sunday 7 April – remember to turn your clock back one hour before you go to bed.

Most digital clocks will turn back automatically (like the clock on your smartphone or device).

It is recommended you test smoke alarms monthly, dust them every year, replace the battery when daylight savings start and finish, and replace your smoke alarm every 10 years.

Smoke alarms alert you to smoke from fires and give you an early warning and time to escape. All Australian homes including units, flats and townhouses are required by law to have smoke alarms installed. Fire Rescue Victoria recommends that you install a smoke alarm in every bedroom and living space.

Morack Public Golf 现已开放！

我们非常自豪地宣布，位于

Vermont South 的 Morack Public Golf 重建工程现已竣工。上个月， 市长 Denise Massoud 宣布该中 心正式开放，并在周末举办了庆 祝活动。

除了 Morack 现有的 18 洞高尔 夫球场外，还新增了三个主要 景点，包括：

▪重建后的多功能馆内设有多 功能空间、高尔夫用品店以及 新的餐饮场所 “Club House (俱乐部会所)” 和 “Café M (M 咖啡厅)” 。

▪重建后的 28 个练习场。

▪全新的 18 洞迷你高尔夫球 场，由建筑师精心设计。

如需了解更多信息并进行预订， 请访问网站：morackpublicgolf. com.au

就垃圾管理发表您的意见

我们正在制定下一个行动计划， 该计划将指导我们在未来五年内 如何提供垃圾处理服务。

此计划将包括我们为支持和帮助 社区尽量从垃圾填埋场分流垃圾 而采取的措施。

我们向您了解在垃圾管理方面 的需求，以帮助我们制定下一 个行动计划。请在 2024 年 4 月 30 日(星期二)之前访问网站： yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au 发表您的意见。

“积极乐颐年“ 长者联系和支 持服务

市议会的 “积极乐颐年（Positive Ageing）“ 部门推出了一项新服 务，帮助您与信息、支持网络和社 区建立联系。

希望参与其中或接到我们的联系 和支持(Connect and Support) 团队的电话？请发送电子邮件至： positiveageing@whitehorse.

vic.gov.au，致电 9262 6333，或 在市议会网站上搜索 “Positive Ageing” 。

Morack Public Golf đã khai trương!

Chúng tôi tự hào thông báo việc tái phát triển Morack Public Golf ở Vermont South đã hoàn tất. Sân golf đã được Thị trưởng Denise Massoud chính thức khai trương vào tháng trước cùng với các hoạt động ăn mừng cuối tuần.

Ba điểm thu hút chính đã được bổ sung cùng với sân golf 18 lỗ hiện có của Morack, bao gồm:

▪ Một gian hàng đa năng được xây dựng lại với các không gian chức năng, một cửa hàng golf và các dịch vụ ăn uống mới ‘Club House’ và ‘Café M’.

▪ Sân tập 28 khu vực được tái phát triển.

▪ Sân golf mini 18 lỗ được thiết kế theo kiến trúc mới.

Tìm hiểu thêm và đặt chỗ tại morackpublicgolf.com.au

Chia sẻ ý kiến của quý vị về Quản lý Chất thải

Chúng tôi đang xây dựng kế hoạch hành động tiếp theo nhằm hướng dẫn cách chúng tôi cung cấp các dịch vụ xử lý rác thải trong 5 năm tới.

Kế hoạch này sẽ bao gồm các hành động của chúng tôi nhằm hỗ trợ và cho phép cộng đồng chúng ta đưa nhiều chất thải nhất có thể ra khỏi bãi chôn lấp.

Chúng tôi sẽ hỏi ý kiến của quý vị về nhu cầu quản lý chất thải của quý vị để giúp đưa ra kế hoạch hành động tiếp theo của chúng tôi. Chia sẻ ý kiến của quý vị tại yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au trước Thứ Ba, ngày 30 tháng Tư năm 2024

Dịch vụ Hỗ trợ và Kết nối Lão hóa Tích cực

Ban Lão hóa Tích cực của Hội đồng Thành phố đã giới thiệu một dịch vụ mới để hỗ trợ quý vị kết nối với thông tin, mạng lưới hỗ trợ và cộng đồng của mình.

Quý vị có muốn tham gia hoặc nhận cuộc gọi từ nhóm Kết nối và Hỗ trợ của chúng tôi không? Hãy gửi email cho chúng tôi theo địa chỉ positiveageing@whitehorse.vic. gov.au, gọi số 9262 6333, hoặc tìm kiếm ‘Positive Ageing’ trên trang mạng của Hội đồng Thành phố.

Το Morack Public Golf είναι τώρα ανοιχτό!

Είμαστε περήφανοι να ανακοινώνουμε την ολοκλήρωση του ανακατασκευασμένου Morack Public Golf στο Vermont South. Εγκαινιάστηκε επίσημα από την Δήμαρχο Denise Massoud τον περασμένο μήνα μαζί με ένα εορταστικό Σαββατοκύριακο δραστηριοτήτων Τρία βασικά αξιοθέατα έχουν προστεθεί παράλληλα με το υπάρχον γήπεδο γκολφ 18 οπών του Morack, όπως: ▪ Ένα ανακατασκευασμένο περίπτερο πολλαπλών χρήσεων με χώρους εκδηλώσεων, ένα κατάστημα γκολφ και νέες προσφορές τροφίμων και ποτών από το ‘Club House’ και το ‘Café M’.

▪ Ένα ανακατασκευασμένο πεδίο προπόνησης 28 θέσεων.

▪ Ένα νέο αρχιτεκτονικά σχεδιασμένο γήπεδο μίνι γκολφ 18 οπών. Μάθετε περισσότερα και κάνετε κρατήσεις στο morackpublicgolf. com.au

Πείτε τη γνώμη σας για τη Διαχείριση Απορριμμάτων

Εργαζόμαστε στο επόμενο σχέδιο δράσης που θα καθοδηγήσει τον τρόπο με τον οποίο παρέχουμε υπηρεσίες απορριμμάτων τα επόμενα πέντε χρόνια.

Αυτό το σχέδιο θα περιλαμβάνει τις ενέργειές μας για την υποστήριξη και τη δυνατότητα στην κοινότητά μας να εκτρέψει όσο το δυνατόν περισσότερα απορρίμματα μπορούν από τον χώρο υγειονομικής ταφής.

Σας ρωτάμε για τις ανάγκες διαχείριση των απορριμμάτων σας για να

ενημερώσετε το επόμενο σχέδιο δράσης μας. Πείτε τη γνώμη σας στο yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au μέχρι την Τρίτη 30 Απριλίου 2024

Υπηρεσία Σύνδεσης και Υποστήριξης

Θετικής Γήρανσης

Το Τμήμα Θετικής Γήρανσης του Δήμου εισήγαγε μια νέα υπηρεσία για να σας βοηθήσει να συνδεθείτε με πληροφορίες, δίκτυα υποστήριξης και

την κοινότητά σας.

Θέλετε να συμμετάσχετε ή να λάβετε

μια κλήση από την ομάδα

Τηλέφωνο 9262 6333, ή αναζητείστε

Ha aperto il Morack Public Golf!

Siamo lieti di annunciare che sono stati completati i lavori di ammodernamento del Morack Public Golf a Vermont South. Il corso di golf è stato inaugurato ufficialmente dalla sindaca Denise Massoud il mese scorso durante un fine settimana di attività e festeggiamenti.

Al campo da golf a 18 buche che già esisteva a Morack, sono state aggiunte tre nuove attrazioni e tra queste:

▪ Un padiglione multifunzione ricostruito con spazi per eventi, un negozio di articoli per il golf e nuove offerte di cibo e bevande con il ‘Club House’ e col ‘Café M’.

▪ Un campo pratica ristrutturato con 28 postazioni di tiro.

▪ Un nuovo campo da mini golf a 18 buche progettato con cura architettonica.

Per maggiori informazioni e per prenotazioni vai al sito morackpublicgolf.com.au

Esprimi la tua opinione sulla gestione dei rifiuti

Stiamo lavorando al prossimo piano d’azione che guiderà la fornitura dei servizi di raccolta rifiuti per i prossimi cinque anni.

Il piano includerà le azioni che intraprenderemo per supportare e aiutare la nostra comunità a ridurre al massimo la quantità di rifiuti mandati nelle discariche.

Ti chiediamo di farci sapere quali sono le tue esigenze per la gestione dei rifiuti, così da aiutarci a definire il nostro prossimo piano d’azione. Condividi la tua opinione al sito yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au entro martedì 30 aprile 2024

Servizio di informazione e supporto per un invecchiamento positivo

Il dipartimento “Invecchiamento Positivo” del Comune ha introdotto un nuovo servizio per aiutarti a trovare informazioni, e metterti in contatto con reti di supporto e con la tua comunità.

Vuoi partecipare o vuoi venir contattato/a da qualcuno del gruppo di informazione e supporto? Mandaci un’email all’indirizzo positiveageing@whitehorse.vic.gov.au, chiamaci al numero 9262 6333, oppure cerca ‘Positive Ageing’ sul sito web del Comune.

Autumn WHITEHORSE School holidays fun in April!

Scan the QR code below to check out our full program and make bookings – or visit whitehorse.vic.gov.au/school-holidays

Book in some dates

WHITEHORSE CALENDAR

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Mega Wellness Class

Aqualink invites you to its Mega Wellness Class, a special event designed to help you unwind, refresh your mind and energise your body. Includes yoga, pilates, meditation and breathing exercises.

Date: Sunday 7 April, 6pm-7pm

Venue: Aqualink Box Hill

More details: aqualink.com.au

MARKETS

Whitehorse Farmers' Market

Stock up on fresh produce, crafts and other goodies at this monthly market organised by Whitehorse’s Rotary and Rotaract clubs outside Council’s Civic Centre.

When: Sunday 14 April, 9am-1pm

Where: Whitehorse Civic Centre, Nunawading

More information: ‘Rotary Whitehorse Farmers’ Market’ on Facebook

Arts Nunawading Market

Local makers offering a wide range of handmade goods from unique art and crafts to fresh produce and delicious gourmet food.

When: Sunday 28 April, 9am-2pm

Where: Whitehorse Civic Centre, Nunawading

More information: artsnunawading. org.au/market

Want to see more?

Scan the QR code to view more events

You can also list your Community Event on the ‘What’s Happening’ section of our website.

YOUTH AND PARENTING

Avoiding parental burnout

Join presenter Frances Bilbao from Mums Matter Psychology for this free online webinar, designed for parents of children aged 16 and under. Learn more about what burnout is, how you could be at risk, and skills to help reduce your risk and start feeling better.

When: Thursday 18 April, 7pm-8.30pm

Where: Online forum

More information: Bookings at trybooking.com/COOPD

ACTIVITIES

Box Hill South –Views from the Sixties

Join the Box Hill Historical Society’s April meeting for a presentation by sisters Pam and Lynette. They grew up with their family above a shop in Canterbury Road, and will share their memories of the lives of local tradies, retailers, schools and the world of Box Hill South in general.

When: Sunday 21 April, 2pm-3.30pm

Where: Bert Lewis Room at Box Hill Library

More information: boxhillhistoricalsociety.com.au

The Basics of Kombucha

Learn the art and science behind crafting this probiotic-rich drink. All experience levels welcome!

When: Sunday 14 and 21 April, 11am-2pm

Where: Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct, Forest Hill

Cost: $146 plus booking fee

More information: Bookings at creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au/whats-on

Pruning keeps trees clear of power lines

Council manages tree pruning on public land to ensure safe distances between trees and power lines.

Pruning will occur in Box Hill North and Box Hill South during April.

Pruning is done in accordance with the Electric Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2020 and also with Council’s Electric Line Clearance Management Plan.

More information:

Search: ‘Pruning’ at whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Public immunisations

Council provides free vaccinations against infectious diseases for children aged from six weeks to 19 years old, as well as a limited range of vaccines for eligible adults in accordance with the National Immunisation Program Schedule.

Immunisations can be booked online through a new State Government platform that also includes electronic consent.

L whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ immunisation-dates