Whitehorse News | March 2024

Autumn School Holiday Program page 13

•

Tee-off time

New sports facilities opening this month in Vermont South page 3

WHITEHORSE NEWS

• Shaping Whitehorse

Have your say in our 2025-2029 Council Plan page 4

March 2024

A live entertainment

FEAST

Get a serve of The Round’s 2024 Season pages 6 + 7

• Celebrating multiculturalism Your guide to our activities for Cultural Diversity Week page 14

•

What’s On guide

Your new home for the Whitehorse Calendar page 16

Contact Whitehorse City Council

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

customer.service@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

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 25 March, 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 27 February 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.

Cover image: SLAP. BANG. KISS. Part of The Round’s 2024 season. Picture by Brett Walker.

Out and about with the mayor

Cr Denise Massoud

Whitehorse’s multiculturalism is one of the most special aspects of our city.

In late January, the Tamil Festival Australia was held at the Nunawading Community Hub, bringing together many Tamil groups to celebrate the significant event of ‘Thai Pongal’. I also enjoyed meeting artist Greta Bernard and supporting her exhibition at Box Hill Community Arts Centre, which focused on The Round’s Midsumma residency. Most recently, the Lunar New Year Festival took place in Box Hill on Saturday 17 February and attracted about 100,000 festivalgoers! With more than a quarter of our Box Hill residents born in China, it is a fitting place for us to hold a major celebration, one that attracts community

leaders and dignitaries from across Australia.

Whitehorse is extremely lucky to be a destination for these huge multicultural events. I’m looking forward to continuing to celebrate our city’s cultural diversity at Culture Fest later this month. Find out more on page 14 and I’ll see you there!

Celebrating National Playgroup Week this March

Playgroups provide a fantastic opportunity for families and children to meet other people going through similar experiences. National Playgroup Week is on from Saturday 23 March until Saturday 30 March.

For parents and guardians, these groups can ease the isolation that can come with caring for young children. They can also provide opportunities to find out more about local community, health and support services.

Play provides children with opportunities to learn, experience, investigate and interact while creating meaning from the world around them.

In Whitehorse, there are playgroups for all types of families and backgrounds. Everyone is welcome.

L Find the nearest playgroup near you by searching ‘Whitehorse Playgroups’ on Council’s website.

Leap into Aqualink

Make this leap year the year of health and fitness with Aqualink! For a limited time you can save on membership at Council’s Aqualink leisure centres at Box Hill and Nunawading.

For two weeks only, new members who sign up before Wednesday 13 March will get their joining fee waived (normally $49) and a free personal training starter pack (normally $99).

Our team of highly experienced and qualified trainers are passionate about supporting members to reach their goals. You’ll receive three 30-minute sessions at a venue of your choice. Your trainer will help tailor a program to your needs and get you started on your fitness journey.

There’s a wide range of Aqualink memberships available, giving you access to our state-of-the-art gym equipment, curated group fitness classes and exceptional aquatic facilities.

L Find the right membership for you and sign up online at aqualink.com.au

Pet registration renewals due soon

Do you have a dog or cat at home? Registering your animal is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. Pet registrations are due on Wednesday 10 April.

All dog and cat owners should receive notices for their pets’ registration renewal by mid-March. If you are yet to receive yours, please contact Council.

Dogs and cats in Whitehorse must be registered with Council once they turn three months old. Cats must also be desexed and cats and dogs microchipped (some exemptions apply). We offer free first-time registration to microchipped and desexed puppies and kittens under three months of age.

Once registered, you will be issued with a tag to place on your pet’s collar, which helps us to reunite you if your pet goes missing. Your pet must always wear its tag. If you’ve moved home or changed your phone number, remember to update your details with Council and your microchip registration company. If we cannot contact you and your pet is impounded, you may be charged a release fee or a fine.

L For more information phone us on 9262 6333 or search ‘Registering Your Pet’ on Council’s website.

New sports facilities to open in Vermont South

March is an exciting month for sport in Vermont South with two venues opening new facilities!

Council’s redevelopment of Morack Public Golf is complete and a grand opening weekend celebration will be held on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 March.

Along with usual bookings across the 18-hole golf course and the brand new mini golf and driving range, plenty of fun activities are planned to celebrate this exciting occasion!

Keep an eye on morackgolf.com.au and the venue’s social media pages during March for updates.

Meanwhile, the new multipurpose pavilion at the Vermont South Club is set to be handed over to the club this month.

The project has been funded by Council, the Federal Government and the club, which offers tennis, lawn bowls and darts.

The building has been expanded to include new facilities for social activities, floor to ceiling windows for views of the bowling green, a new club meeting room and toilets.

The new Morack Public Golf pavilion

A grand opening celebration is planned for mid-April, and it will be available to the community to hire for private or corporate events.

Your ideas can shape our city

What would you like to see for the future of Whitehorse? Now is the chance to put your thoughts forward.

The Council Plan will consider how the community live, work and play in Whitehorse, how they can connect with each other, how they move around and how they access programs and services.

Now is your chance to put your ideas forward to help review and shape Council’s key plans for the next four years.

This is across five key areas: Social, Built, Economic, Natural and Council Governance.

Later this year, Council will set the priorities for the next four years 2025-2029.

So now is the time to get your input!

How to get involved:

▪ Complete the survey

▪ Subscribe to our project newsletter

▪ Apply to join the community panel

▪ Visit a Pop-Up

Quarter Two Performance Report

Our latest Quarterly Performance Report for October-December 2023 has landed!

We’ve achieved a number of significant milestones, including the adoption of our Climate Response Strategy and Plan. Participation at Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct (pictured) has increased by 30 per cent since last year. We also celebrated the successes of our Gardens for Wildlife program. This document provides our community with an insight into the progress and achievements of the last quarter, and details Council’s progress towards delivering our Council Plan 2021-2025.

L To learn more about our achievements, search for ‘Quarterly Performance Report’ on Council’s website.

This is your opportunity to let us know what matters most to you and to voice your ideas. It will allow us to create a roadmap to 2029 that is ambitious and achievable and takes us closer to the Whitehorse 2040 Vision.

L Email our project team at shapingwhitehorse@whitehorse.vic.gov.au or check our Your Say website regularly for more details.

Get your applications in for our Community Grants Program

Your organisation could be eligible for up to $10,000 as part of our Community Grants Program.

There’s still time to apply, so if you are part of a not-for-profit or incorporated organisation that is making a positive difference in Whitehorse, make sure you get your application in soon!

L Applications close on Sunday 7 April. Search ‘Community Grants’ on Council’s website for more information.

Have your say on our unused roads

You’re invited to have your say on proposed updates to our Road Discontinuance Policy. It covers what we do with unused roads, such as laneways behind houses.

Some older roads in Whitehorse may no longer be necessary and can be considered for sale. For example, laneways originally created for rear access to properties can become redundant as properties are renovated, and residents start using front access instead.

Our current policy has been in place for about 15 years. We’ve reviewed it and are proposing some changes including:

▪ Taking a more proactive stance on people unlawfully occupying unused roads.

▪ Changing the purchase discount for people unlawfully using unused roads.

▪ Having more discretion over land allocation to better balance the interests of the community and adjacent landowners.

▪ A new application fee to help cover administrative costs.

The proposed changes are focused on ensuring fairness while also resolving ownership issues and complying with relevant legislation.

L Feedback is open until Sunday 31 March. For more information and to share your feedback, visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ roads

Come to our Tally Ho Structure Plan drop-in session

Council began work in late 2023 on a Structure Plan for the Tally Ho Major Activity Centre – and we want to share it with you and get your thoughts.

The activity centre is located generally around the Burwood Highway/Springvale Road intersection. It includes landmarks such as the Tally Ho Business Park, East Burwood Reserve, Eastern Health’s Peter James Centre and the Burvale Hotel.

This Structure Plan will guide future changes to Council’s Planning Scheme, including potential planning zone changes and updates to existing planning controls so we can achieve the vision for the activity centre. We have also prepared a report that

analyses economic and demographic trends, drivers of change, and issues/ opportunities related to economics, transport/parking, built form, public spaces and community infrastructure.

A drop-in session is being held on Wednesday 13 March between 4.30pm and 6pm at the East Burwood Hall. The project team will be available to answer questions about the project, and you are welcome to drop in at any time during the session.

L Scan the QR code for more information or contact Council’s Strategic Planning team on 9262 6303.

Positive Ageing survey update

Thank you to the 1052 community members who completed the recent Positive Ageing in Whitehorse survey.

We’re working with your feedback to ensure our Positive Ageing service responds to the needs of our community. A shorter, five-minute survey is now available to help us understand your priorities around the key themes you raised.

L To give your feedback and see the original survey results, visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ positive-ageing

Have your say on proposed land transfer in Box Hill

Council is considering a proposal to transfer land in Box Hill with the Suburban Rail Loop Authority (SRLA).

The proposal is for the:

▪ Sale of 10-12 Watts Street and 11 Court Street, Box Hill, to SRLA.

▪ Purchase of 528 Station Street, Box Hill, from SRLA.

SRLA has made this proposal because they need to offset public open space for the land temporarily used for the Box Hill Suburban Rail Loop station construction. This proposal has potential to benefit Council and our community because:

▪ SRLA proposes to turn the Watts Street and Court Street sites into temporary public open space, which will help address the acute shortage of open space in Box Hill.

▪ We already own 526 and 530 Station Street. The purchase of 528 Station Street would enable Council to own the middle property between these sites.

L Feedback closes on Wednesday 27 March. Learn more and share your feedback at yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/boxhill

Have your say

Register as a user on Your Say Whitehorse to receive notifications of new consultations.

To sign up to Your Say Whitehorse, visit yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au

ABOUT THE ROUND

The Round is Council’s state-of-theart, multi-faceted performing arts venue, which opened in Nunawading in October 2023.

The venue contains a 626-seat main theatre, an intimate 203-seat studio, and function spaces to hold anything from conferences to weddings.

Local arts groups can also access dedicated creative spaces to rehearse and develop their craft.

The Round is also a destination for outdoor festivals and events with its Soundshell – an extension of the Studio stage.

It opens into the surrounding parkland amphitheatre and has already been used for events including Council’s Carols by Candlelight and the Australia Day Concert, both of which attracted around 10,000 people.

A FEAST for the senses – The Round serves up blockbuster entertainment in 2024

A mouthwatering line-up of music, theatre, comedy and circus is coming to Whitehorse as part of The Round’s 2024 season.

FEAST consists of a tantalising menu of performances for live entertainment lovers to enjoy at The Round – the hottest new venue in Melbourne’s east.

“We can‘t wait for audiences to feast their eyes and ears on the artists and shows we have in store for 2024,“ said Shayne Price, Council’s Arts and Cultural Services Manager.

“This season has something to satisfy every palate, making it our biggest and boldest line-up yet as we launch our first full year at The Round.“

Theatrical highlights on the menu include Andrew Bovell‘s ‘Things I Know To Be True’ and Melbourne Theatre Company’s ‘SLAP. BANG. KISS’. Sydney Theatre Company and Moogahlin Performing Arts will also present their powerful award-winning drama ‘The Visitors’. Music lovers will be blown away by Vika & Linda and Marcia Hines’ powerful voices. They can also bask in a tribute to George Michael with ‘Careless Whisper’ and enjoy opera classics with Opera Australia’s production ‘La Bohème’.

A side of dance, circus and physical theatre is also on offer with acrobatic troupe Circa presenting ‘Humans 2.0’. Comedy fare includes the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow starring Claire Hooper, and political

satire from The Wharf Revue. Late-night debauchery is on order with Briefs Factory‘s adults-only cabaret ‘Dirty Laundry’.

The Round‘s family season – the Kids Menu –has also been announced, inviting children to join the fun with the interactive ‘ARC’ by Erth, the inspiring ‘I Wish…’ from Patch Theatre and Gravity & Other Myths, or the live stage show of beloved picture-story book ‘The Gruffalo’. Underground Cabaret also returns in 2024 –with the intimate Studio Theatre transforming into a cabaret club to host saucy performances from the likes of Tash York and Mama Alto. Mayor Cr Denise Massoud urged residents to make The Round “your destination for an unforgettable live entertainment FEAST in 2024”.

“Don’t miss your chance to experience topquality performing arts close to home,” she said.

Tickets are selling fast with some productions already sold out, so be quick to ensure you don’t miss your desired items on the FEAST menu.

Subscription packages – starting from as little as five shows – offer cheaper tickets and many other benefits.

L Get more details on becoming a subscriber and secure your tickets to your favourite shows at theround.com.au

Briefs Factory’s cabaret ‘Dirty Laundry’

The Round – Theatre

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Marvellous Mozart

Saturday 9 March, 7.30pm – SOLD OUT

An Evening With Vika & Linda

Friday 5 April, 7.30pm – SOLD OUT

Circa: Humans 2.0

Saturday 20 April, 7.30pm

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Wednesday 24 April, 7.30pm – SELLING FAST

The Wharf Revue: Pride In Prejudice

Friday 26 April, 7.30pm – SOLD OUT

Saturday 27 April, 1.30pm – SOLD OUT

Saturday 27 April, 7.30pm – NEW SHOW

Briefs: Dirty Laundry (18+)

Wednesday 8 May, 7.30pm

Things I Know To Be True

Friday 24 May, 7.30pm

Saturday 25 May, 1.30pm

The Visitors

Friday 26 July, 7.30pm

Saturday 27 July, 1.30pm

La Bohème

Thursday 1 August, 7.30pm – LIMITED SEATS

Marcia Hines: Still Shining

Saturday 7 September, 7.30pm

– LIMITED SEATS

Bobby Fox: Careless Whisper

A tribute to George Michael

Saturday 5 October, 1.30pm and 7.30pm

Simply BRILL

Friday 1 November, 7.30pm

Saturday 2 November, 1.30pm

FEAST 2024 PROGRAM

Ticket availability as of

Tuesday 27 February

Scan the QR code for more information on each show and to book your tickets.

The Round – Studio

Swansong

Saturday 23 March, 8pm – LIMITED SEATS

Dear Diary

Saturday 18 May, 2pm and 8pm

The Fence

Saturday 17 August, 2pm and 8pm

Melbourne Theatre Company: SLAP. BANG. KISS.

Saturday 24 August, 7.30pm

The Visitors

Underground Cabaret

Tash York

Friday 22 March, 8pm

Mama Alto

Friday 19 April, 8pm

Peppy Smears

Friday 10 May, 8pm

The Kids Menu

I Wish...

Friday 5 April, 10am and 12.30pm

ARC

Saturday 3 August, 10am and 1pm

The Gruffalo

Wednesday 25 September, 10am and 12pm

▪ Under 30s

▪ Subscribers (5+ and 8+ show packages).

L

Marcia Hines: Still Shining Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

The Gruffalo

Where is my ward?

Do you know who represents you in Whitehorse and which ward you live in?

We’ve pulled together a guide to help you identify your ward and councillor.

Search ‘Whitehorse Wards’ on Council’s website for more information on your ward, and you can find contact details for your local councillor on the ‘Councillors’ page.

You can enter in your home address at map.whitehorse.vic.gov.au for extra information including bin collection days, indigenous plant lists and planning overlays for your property.

Kingsley Ward

Cr Amanda McNeill

Suburbs: Mont Albert, Mont Albert North, Surrey Hills

Open spaces:

Mont Albert Reserve, Boisdale Park, Bluebell Hill Reserve, Gawler Chain Trail parks

Major shopping precincts: Mont Albert Village, Wattle Park shops

Cr McNeill represents Council on the following:

▪ Victorian Local Governance Association

▪ Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action Executive Committee

▪ Metropolitan Transport Forum

▪ Whitehorse Disability Advisory Committee

Wattle Ward

Cr Andrew Davenport –Deputy Mayor

Suburbs: Box Hill South, Burwood

Open spaces:

Wattle Park, Gardiners Creek Reserve, Box Hill Skate Park

Sparks Ward

Cr Tina Liu

Suburbs: Box Hill, Box Hill South

Open spaces: Surrey Park, Wembley Park, RHL Sparks Reserve, Box Hill City Oval, Whitehorse Reserve

Major shopping precincts: Box Hill Activity Centre, Box Hill South Shopping Centre

Cr Liu represents Council on the following:

▪ Eastern Transport Coalition

Major shopping precincts: Burwood Village shops, HomeCo Box Hill

Cr Davenport represents Council on the following:

▪ Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corp.

Suburbs: Box Hill, Box Hill North, Mont Albert North

Open spaces: Box Hill Gardens, Elgar Park, Hagenauer Reserve, Memorial Park, Eram Park, Springfield Park

Major shopping precinct: Box Hill Activity Centre

Cr Barker represents Council on the following:

▪ Audit and Risk Committee

▪ Domestic Animal Management Plan Advisory Committee

Suburbs: Blackburn, Blackburn North

Open spaces: Koonung Park, Koonung Creek Linear Reserve, Blacks Walk, Kalang Park, Furness Park, Wandinong Sanctuary

Major shopping precincts: Blackburn Square, Blackburn Station Shopping Precinct, Blackburn South Shopping Centre

Cr Munroe represents Council on the following:

▪ Local Government Working Group on Gambling

Elgar Ward

Cr Blair Barker

Cootamundra Ward

Cr Andrew Munroe

Suburbs: Mitcham, Nunawading

Open spaces: Ronald E Gray Reserve, Halliday Park, Walker Park, Yarran Dheran Reserve, Antonio Park, Charles Rooks/ Dagola Avenue Reserve

Major shopping precincts: Mitcham Shopping Centre, Rangeview Shopping Centre

Cr Stennett represents Council on the following:

▪ Heritage Steering Committee

▪ Whitehorse Sport and Recreation Reference Group

Suburbs: Blackburn, Blackburn North, Forest Hill, Nunawading,

Open spaces: Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, Morton Park, Nunwading Reserve, Tunstall Park, Nicoll Park, Slater Reserve, Junction Road Reserve

Major shopping precinct:

MegaMile Home and Lifestyle Precinct

Suburbs: Blackburn South, Burwood East

Open spaces: Wurundjeri Walk, Mirrabooka Reserve, Eley Park, Highbury Park, Ballyshannassy Park

Suburbs: Burwood East, Vermont South

Open spaces: East Burwood Reserve, Terrara Park, Bellbird Dell, Billabong Park, Tyrol Park, Lookout Trail Park, Dandenong Valley Parklands

Cr Massoud represents Council on the following:

▪ Municipal Association of Victoria

▪ Whitehorse Business Group

▪ Eastern Affordable Housing Alliance

▪ Eastern Region Group

▪ Whitehorse Disability Advisory Committee

▪ Whitehorse Reconciliation Advisory Committee

▪ Environment and Sustainability Reference Group

Major shopping precincts: Burwood One, Burwood Heights Shopping Centre, Burwood Brickworks

Cr Skilbeck represents Council on the following:

▪ Audit and Risk Committee

▪ Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corp.

Major shopping precinct: Vermont South Shopping Centre

Cr Carr represents Council on the following:

▪ Visual Arts Advisory Committee

▪ Domestic Animal Management Plan Advisory Committee

Suburbs: Blackburn South, Burwood East, Forest Hill, Vermont

Open spaces: Mahoney’s Reserve, Forest Hill Reserve, Stephens Reserve, Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct

Major shopping precincts: Brentford Square, Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre

Cr Lane represents Council on the following:

▪ Eastern Region Group

▪ Whitehorse Business Group

Suburbs: Mitcham, Vermont

Open spaces: Abbey Walk, Bellbird Dell, Buckanbe Park, Campbells Croft, Heatherdale Reserve, Simpson Park, Somers Trail, Vermont Reserve

Major shopping precinct: Vermont Village

Cr Cutts represents Council on the following:

▪ Environment and Sustainability Reference Group

▪ Whitehorse Reconciliation Advisory Committee

▪ Whitehorse Sport and Recreation Reference Group

COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE

Our councillors meet fortnightly on Mondays from 7pm at our Civic Chambers in Nunawading.

You can also watch the meetings online at webcast.whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Meetings are scheduled on the following dates:

▪ 25 March

▪ 15 and 29 April

▪ 13 and 27 May

▪ 24 June

▪ 8 and 22 July

▪ 12 and 26 August

▪ 9 and 23 September

Council will enter a caretaker period on 24 September in preparation for the 2024 Council elections on 26 October. Meetings will resume on 11 November.

Walker Ward

Cr Ben Stennett

Lake Ward

Cr Denise Massoud – Mayor

Eley Ward

Cr Trudy Skilbeck

Terrara Ward

Cr Raylene Carr

Mahoneys Ward

Cr Mark Lane

Simpson Ward

Cr Prue Cutts

The views expressed are those of individual Councillors and do not necessarily reflect Council policy or the views of Council as a whole.

Cootamundra Ward

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

While the Suburban Rail Loop is a State Government project our Council is taking a proactive role in informing residents in the areas immediately affected through letterbox drops and pop-up information sessions. The SRLA has released its draft Precinct Visions for the Box Hill and Burwood structure plans. The Box Hill precinct extends into Cootamundra Ward. The published draft Box Hill Vision outlines a preliminary idea to ‘support local centres such as Laburnum’ and includes a proposal for higher density housing and mixed-use developments near Laburnum train station, between Whitehorse Road and the train line. I don’t believe Council has a full understanding as to the extent of the State Government’s plans other than it will likely involve higher density. It is so important that residents get informed and involved and have a say on the works that will have significant impacts on our neighbourhood.

In recent weeks I attended the Brian Cadd concert at Whitehorse’s new performing arts centre, The Round. I suspect most won’t know singer-songwriter Cadd, who was big in the ‘70s, but you may know his big hit, Little Ray of Sunshine. It was a sample of the many fantastic events in our outstanding facility and if you are yet to visit, have a look at the schedule of performances at theround.com.au There truly is something for everyone.

Whitehorse City Council is divided into 11 single-councillor wards. Our Councillors have been elected to serve until October 2024. Contact our other councillors on these details:

Eley Ward

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

Paying attention to what 2024 may bring McCrindle Research has released their top 8 expected 2024 trends (mccrindle.com.au/ article/the-trends-of-2024/). Looking at trends is a helpful way to anticipate what we need to keep adjusting to. However, no future trend is inevitable.

We can impact trends if we actively pay attention to them.

One important trend is the demand that we focus on the ‘real environment’ in 2024; moving beyond buzzwords and dubious claims to engage people in very tangible and practical ways. We have to be able to talk about ‘what does reducing emissions mean for me?’ and then activate things people can do in response. Look out for Whitehorse’s year-long (not a ‘conference week’) sustainability emphasis; and help us collectively to be real about it.

Another trend is the redefining of community taking place through the loneliness epidemic. Micro-communities will continue to emerge digitally and physically; let’s be curious about increasing human connection for all.

In local government we are seeing a trend known as ‘the growth reckoning’ (balancing the upsides and downsides of population growth) land squarely in planning reform. Let’s be in this debate as communities, with an open mind. Housing availability/ affordability and infrastructure pain are complex problems requiring far more than politically popular responses.

There will be Blackburn South residents aware of disputes relating to the Scoutsowned property in McCracken Avenue, and its use as a musical rehearsal space. There are hearings before VCAT in recent months, which are continuing.

Council’s statement on this matter is at whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ blackburn-sth-scouts-feb-2024

Elgar Ward

Cr Blair Barker

0459 857 280 blair.barker@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

What a magnificent summer it has been! Thanks to the significant rainfall over Christmas, our ovals and gardens remained green and the turf team has been racing to keep up with the rapid growth. The Australia Day Concert and Lunar New Year celebrations were massive successes with thousands enjoying the local entertainment.

Positive and rapid change is happening in the Elgar Ward.

The Kerrimuir Cricket Club now proudly hosts two senior women’s cricket teams, enriching our club community with new energy and camaraderie.

Council has distributed leaflets regarding the Suburban Rail Loop to thousands of homes, raising awareness about proposed planning changes by the State Government. While these changes may bring increased population density to our area, many recognise the potential benefits of improved transportation options and enhanced access to jobs and affordable housing.

Despite understandable concerns about significant changes, it’s important to acknowledge the potential advantages. However, maintaining the natural environment and social infrastructure remain paramount. The 2023 Australian Liveability Census highlights the importance of elements like green spaces and community facilities.

To ensure our neighbourhood’s liveability, I believe it’s crucial to advocate for additional park space alongside increased population density. That’s why I‘ll be advocating that the Suburban Rail Loop acquires the old Brickworks site at Surrey Park and transforms it into open space for 50,000 future residents. I need your help and your engagement in the consultation processes that will be vital in shaping these decisions. Let’s work together!

Lake Ward

Cr Denise Massoud – Mayor 0409 230 499

denise.massoud@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Mahoneys Ward

Cr Mark Lane

0435 387 526 mark.lane@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

The views expressed are those of individual Councillors and do not necessarily reflect Council policy or the views of Council as a whole.

Kingsley Ward

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

It’s pleasing to announce Council is working with our preferred applicant to operate a social enterprise café from the Mont Albert Heritage Station building. I recently visited Alkira at Box Hill TAFE, an outstanding local disability organisation that works alongside TAFE to support young people with intellectual disability to make the transition from school into the community and employment. The Momentum Program teaches 18 to 21 year-olds independent living and employability skills including budgeting and accessing the community. Perkins House in Churchill Street, Mont Albert, is run by Alkira and is a beautiful heritage home providing short-term accommodation and support for people with disability. Take a walk along Churchill Street on a nice day and check it out. Contact Alkira 9890 1365, or info@alkira.org.au

Walker Ward

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

Thanks for your feedback!

Council has been seeking your feedback on two Landscape Masterplans, at Walker Park Nunawading and Charles Rooks/Dagola Reserves in Nunawading. Council will use this feedback to prepare draft Masterplans, which will then go out for a further round of consultation later this year. I would like to thank all of those who have participated so far.

Lions Club of Nunawading

I would like to thank the Lions Club of Nunawading for working with Council on a special project recently. Long serving members of the club, Kevin and Rosemary Frazer donated funds through the club to install new park furniture at Schwerkolt Cottage Mitcham.

Clean Up Australia Day

Thank you to those participating in Clean Up Australia Day this year. Every year so many people help to clean up our local parks and waterways including Antonio Park, Yarran Dheran and others. Did you know that more than 21 million Australians have donated their time to Clean Up Australia Day activities over the last 30 years, including nearly 40 million hours of volunteer hours!

Dog attacks in Mitcham

There have been two serious dog attacks in Mitcham recently. Councillor Prue Cutts and I have been listening to the community who are concerned about this issue. Whitehorse’s Community Laws team is responsible for animal management, which includes investigating dog attacks. Council undertakes a range of proactive actions such as park patrols, education campaigns relating to responsible pet ownership and community engagement initiatives to assist with the reduction of dog attacks. For more information please see whitehorse.vic.gov.au/damp

Sparks Ward

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

Wattle Ward

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

Simpson Ward

Cr Prue Cutts

0409 867 540 prue.cutts@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

The Vermont Recreation Reserve oval redevelopment is at the exciting stage! The natural turf is now 100% laid, and synthetic turf, safety netting and the perimeter path are all installed. Fencing is almost complete. It’s expected that the carpark will reopen from March but the oval will be off-bounds until mid-April to allow for turf establishment.

THANK YOU to the wonderful volunteers of the Whitehorse SES Unit based in Box Hill South, who work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

The recent storm on Tuesday 13 February was as intense as it was short, but it left such destruction in its wake. Large parts of Simpson Ward (Mitcham and Vermont) were left without power for several days. Mike and Damien (pictured) were out in Brunswick Road, Mitcham, clearing a massive tree branch that had blocked the busy road.

CONGRATULATIONS to Heatherdale

Cricket Club for a hugely successful 10th Pink Stumps Day. It raised $5800 for the McGrath Foundation, which funds breast care nurses. Simpson Ward local and breast cancer survivor Lauren Harbeck spoke of her personal journey after being diagnosed at the age of 35. It was a moving afternoon, held for the first time in the beautiful new rooms of the Heatherdale Reserve pavilion.

Terrara Ward

Cr Raylene Carr

0400 886 889 raylene.carr@whitehorse.vic.gov.au

Pink Stumps Day at Mont Albert Reserve was a great success again this year, raising funds for the McGrath Foundation. It was wonderful to see the Mont Albert Reserve Pavilion packed with women in pink. Congratulations to the Mont Albert Cricket Club on another outstanding perfect day.

Spotlight on Sparks Ward with Cr Tina Liu

2024 has started with a bang, with a number of wonderful events held in the heart of Box Hill including an Australia Day Citizenship ceremony at the iconic Box Hill Town Hall as well as the Lunar New Year festival. Events like these bring together people from all different backgrounds and walks of life; it is really a celebration of community spirit and a reminder of how lucky we are to be in this great country.

I am honoured and fortunate to represent such a wonderfully vibrant and diverse community.

Box Hill, being a key activity centre in Whitehorse and metro Melbourne, continues to evolve. While I understand change can also bring a level of uncertainty, my focus has always been on informing and working together with our community and other stakeholders, including other levels of government, to foster sustainable change.

We have a number of city-shaping projects, including the Suburban Rail Loop and the proposed Vicinity Masterplan (and associated proposed redevelopment of Box Hill Central). It is imperative Council continues to advocate strongly for these projects. I am encouraged by the broader

Shopping Strip Spotlight:

Eley Road Shops

Location: Eley Road, Blackburn South

Number of traders: 7

Services: Takeaway food stores, accountant, beauty and massage services, bakery, nuts and sweets store.

Parking and nearby transport: 24 parking spaces, also accessible on bus routes 703, 735 and 736.

engagement activities that we as a Council have been undertaking. While projects such as the SRL are under the State Government, my view is that we should provide every opportunity to inform and engage with our community in order to better advocate for Whitehorse.

I also want to thank residents, traders and community members who have taken the time to drop into our various community drop-in sessions / listening posts. It was great to speak with you all and hear your feedback. I would also highly encourage everyone to review the recent Draft Precinct Vision released by the Suburban Rail Loop Authority (SRLA) and submit your feedback. Our collective efforts will assist in ensuring Box Hill and Box Hill South are great places to live, work and play.

What do you love the most about your shopping strip?

“Eley Road is a clean, quiet street easily accessible with plenty of parking and a great combination of community business owners.”

– Setareh, PJ Barber and Beauty

5 Star Food Program

Congratulations to Box Hill North’s Da Pino Pizzeria e Cucina – Council‘s 5 Star Food Safe nominee for this month.

Restaurant staff impressed officers with a near perfect score during a recent inspection. Manager Grace Licciardello and the team pride themselves on serving up authentic, Sicilianinspired food and have been based in Box Hill North for more than 30 years.

Find out about other great local businesses who have achieved excellent food safety ratings by visiting the eHealth portal on Council’s website.

Da Pino Pizzeria e Cucina

Address: 939 Station Street, Box Hill North

Trading hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 5pm

Contact details: 9899 9393 or visit dapinopizzeria.com.au

Book in some dates

Here are some highlights of awesome activities you can enjoy in Whitehorse in the upcoming school holidays.

The Round

I Wish...

WHITEHORSE

Autumn School Holiday Program

whitehorse.vic.gov.au/school-holidays

Box Hill Community Arts Centre

All Day Art Day –Wonderfully Willy Wonka

Join us for a day of pure imagination and indulge in Willy Wonka themed crafts, vibrant egg painting and handbuilding with clay.

When: Wednesday 3 April, 9.30am – 3.15 pm

Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre

Age: 6 -12 years

Cost: $89

Bookings: Required

Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct

Kids Egg-venture and family picnic

Join us for a morning of family fun. There will be crafts for the little ones and a scavenger hunt for the whole family with sweet rewards on offer!

When: Friday 12 April, 10.30am – 12pm

Where: Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct

Age: Family

Cost: $18 per child, extra children $15 each (must be booked in the same transaction) Bookings: Required

Featuring gravity-defying acrobatics, stunning visuals and playful humour, I Wish… is an unforgettable live performance experience.

When: Friday 5 April 10am* and 12.30pm (*relaxed show)

Where: The Round

Age: 4-8 years and their families

Cost: All tickets $24, Groups of 4+ $20 Bookings: theround.com.au

Schwerkolt Cottage

Easter fun at Schwerkolt Cottage!

A big afternoon of Easter fun awaits at Schwerkolt Cottage! There’ll be crafts, games and two Easter egg hunts for children in the garden. Book in early!

When: Saturday 30 March 1pm – 4pm

Where: Schwerkolt Cottage

Age: 6 -12 years

Cost: Free Bookings: Required

Moonlight Movies

Moonlight movie night – ‘Migration’ (G)

Spread your wings and soar to our free school holiday screening of Migration! Join us for an adventure-packed journey that’s sure to lift your spirits!

When: Thursday 28 March, 6.30pm

Where: Box Hill Gardens

Age: All ages

Cost: Free

Bookings: Not required

Nunawading Hub and Sportlink

Court hire

Come down to the Hub or Sportlink and play your favourite sports with your friends and family.

When: Check availability with the centre

Where: Nunawading Community Hub, Nunawading and Sportlink, Vermont South

Age: All ages

Cost: See website for details Bookings: Required

Festivals

Moonlight movie night – ‘Wonka’ (PG)

Dive into a world of chocolate dreams and whimsical wonders at our free school holiday screening of Wonka!

When: Friday 5 April, 6.30pm

Where: Livingstone Primary School Reserve

Age: All ages

Cost: Free

Bookings: Not required

Aqualink Box Hill

Chill Zone

Are you brave enough to jump off the 3m diving board, the 1m diving board or the tarzan rope?

When: Everyday during the school holidays

Monday to Friday 12pm – 4pm

Saturday to Sunday 1pm – 4pm

Where: Aqualink, Box Hill

Age: All ages

Cost: Casual cost entry Bookings: Not required

Green Living Champion –Barbara, Burwood

Meet Barbara, our very experienced Green Living Champion. She is in her 90s and is a passionate advocate for the environment, including action on climate change.

Barbara has been a teacher, wine grape farmer, a member of various environmental groups and often writes letters to media and other stakeholders about climate and environment matters.

“Everyone needs to take some sciencebased climate action because it is a world problem,” Barbara said.

“Climate change isn’t going to solve itself and Australia must transition away

from fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas) very largely within the next six years.”

Here are Barbara’s tips for taking action on climate change:

▪ Think about your home electricity and transport options. Choose to have local holidays, as these usually have lower carbon emissions. Get solar panels or buy green-power electricity.

▪ Eat more local plant-based food instead of meat and dairy. Wear more cotton and wool instead of polyester and synthetic fibres.

▪ Join a local climate action group, and talk about the issue with family and friends.

Thinking of installing solar panels?

Whitehorse has joined Solar Savers, a local government initiative operating across 17 councils.

Solar Savers makes solar power installation easy, affordable and reliable for Whitehorse residents. The team has done the hard work for you, selecting accredited solar installers offering affordable, high-quality solar systems.

Solar Savers offer peace of mind knowing your installers have been independently checked for safety, quality and value for money.

The program is supported by Council’s new Climate Response Strategy 2023-2030, which includes working towards a target of net zero community emissions by 2040.

Cultural Diversity Week in Whitehorse

We are proud to be celebrating multiculturalism in Whitehorse with Cultural Diversity Week from Monday 18 March to Sunday 24 March.

The week will culminate with Culture Fest, a massive all-ages event at Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct in Forest Hill on Sunday 24 March from 12pm to 3pm.

Get ready for an explosion of cultures with free activities, tasty bites, cultural displays, and music that will have you tapping your toes.

Other events being held by Council as part of Cultural Diversity Week include:

▪ Being Biracial Podcast Live

The Round (Studio), Thursday 21 March, 7.30pm.

▪ Maria Pena exhibition: Landscape Under The Skin

Box Hill Community Arts Centre, Tuesday 12 March to Thursday 27 March.

▪ Chosen Family: Recent Works by Patricia Agus and Daniel Ha Whitehorse Artspace, Box Hill Town Hall, Friday 1 March to Saturday 30 March. Artists’ Talk on Friday 22 March, 12pm.

L For more information on Cultural Diversity Week and these events please visit: creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au

L Read more of Barbara’s story by searching ‘Green Living Champions’ on Council’s website.

L Find out more about the program at solarsavers.org.au/registerwhitehorse/

免费活动——“文化节 （Culture Fest）”

欢迎参加文化节，弘扬

Whitehorse 的多元文化。活动时 间为 3 月 24 日（星期日）中午 12 时至下午 4 时。

该活动免费，将在 Forest Hill 的 Strathdon House 和 Orchard Precinct 举行。您可以免费参加各 种活动，品尝美味佳肴，欣赏来 自不同民族和文化的文化表演和 音乐。

如需了解更多信息，请访问网站： creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au

宠物注册续期即将到期办理

您家里养猫狗吗？为您的动物注 册是成为负责任宠物主人的重要 一环。宠物注册截止日期为 4 月 10 日星期三。

居住在 Whitehorse 的所有猫狗 在满三个月后都必须向市议会登 记。如果您搬了家或更换了电话 号码，请记得更新您的联系方式。

如果市议会无法与您取得联系， 而您的宠物又被扣留，则您可能 需要缴纳释放费或罚款。

欲了解更多信息，请致电

9262 6333 或在市议会网站上搜 索 “Registering Your Pet (为您的宠物注册）” 。

土地出售提议

市议会正在考虑一项提议，即在

与 Suburban Rail Loop Authority 的交易中出售我们的部分土地并 购买其他土地。

市议会的提议内容为：

▪市议会将 10-12 Watts Street

和 11 Court Street, Box Hill 两 处出售给 SRLA

▪市议会从 SRLA 购入

528 Station Street, Box Hill 如需了解有关该提案的更多信 息，请浏览网站： yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov. au/boxhill

Sự kiện miễn phí – ‘Lễ hội văn hóa’

Hãy tham gia Lễ hội Văn hóa với chúng tôi để tôn vinh chủ nghĩa đa văn hóa ở Whitehorse. Sự kiện này được tổ chức vào Chủ nhật ngày 24 tháng Ba từ 12 giờ trưa đến 4 giờ chiều

Đây là sự kiện miễn phí và sẽ được tổ chức tại Strathdon House và Orchard Precinct ở Forest Hill. Quý vị có thể tận hưởng các hoạt động miễn phí cũng như thưởng thức các món ăn ngon, trình diễn văn hóa và âm nhạc từ nhiều quốc gia và các nền văn hóa khác nhau.

Để biết thêm thông tin, vui lòng truy cập creativewhitehorse.vic. gov.au

Gia hạn đăng ký thú cưng sắp đến hạn

Quý vị có nuôi chó hay mèo ở nhà không? Đăng ký vật nuôi của quý vị là một phần quan trọng của việc sở hữu thú cưng có trách nhiệm và hạn đăng ký thú cưng vào thứ Tư ngày 10 tháng Tư

Tất cả chó và mèo sống ở Whitehorse phải được đăng ký với Hội đồng khi chúng được ba tháng tuổi. Nếu quý vị đã chuyển nhà hoặc thay đổi số điện thoại, hãy nhớ cập nhật thông tin chi tiết của quý vị.

Nếu Hội đồng không thể liên lạc với quý vị và thú cưng của quý vị bị tạm giữ, quý vị có thể bị tính phí để thả hoặc phạt tiền.

Để biết thêm thông tin, hãy gọi điện thoại 9262 6333 hoặc tìm ‘Registering Your Pet’ trên trang mạng của Hội đồng.

Đề xuất bán đất

Hội đồng Thành phố đang xem xét đề xuất bán một số đất của chúng tôi và mua đất khác trong thỏa thuận với Suburban Rail Loop Authority.

Đề xuất dành cho Hội đồng là:

▪ Bán 10-12 Watts Street và 11 Court St, Box Hill đến SRLA

▪ Mua 528 Station Street, Box Hill từ SRLA.

Phản hồi sẽ kết thúc vào Thứ Hai 25 tháng Ba. Tìm hiểu thêm về đề xuất bằng cách truy cập yoursay.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ boxhill

Δωρεάν εκδήλωση – ‘Φεστιβάλ Πολιτισμού’

Ελάτε μαζί μας στο Φεστιβάλ Πολιτισμού για να γιορτάσουμε τον πολυπολιτισμικό πλούτο στο Whitehorse. Η εκδήλωση θα πραγματοποιηθεί την Κυριακή 24 Μαρτίου από τις 12πμ to 4μμ Είναι μια δωρεάν εκδήλωση και θα λάβει χώρα στο Strathdon House και στην Orchard Precinct στο Forest Hill. Μπορείτε να απολαύσετε δωρεάν δραστηριότητες, νόστιμα εδέσματα, πολιτιστικές εκθέσεις και μουσική από πολλές διαφορετικές εθνικότητες και πολιτισμούς.

Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες επισκεφθείτε το creativewhitehorse. vic.gov.au

Οι ανανεώσεις εγγραφής κατοικίδιων ζώων έρχονται σύντομα

Έχετε σκύλο ή γάτα στο σπίτι; Η εγγραφή του κατοικίδιου ζώου σας είναι σημαντικό μέρος της ευθύνης να έχετε ένα κατοικιδίο ζώο και οι προθεσμία για εγγραφές

κατοικιδίων λήγουν την Τετάρτη 10 Απριλίου Όλοι οι σκύλοι και οι γάτες που ζουν στο Whitehorse πρέπει να εγγραφούν στον Δήμο μόλις συμπληρώσουν ηλικία τριών μηνών. Αν μετακομήσατε ή άλλαξε ο αριθμός του τηλεφώνου σας, θυμηθείτε να ενημερώσετε τα στοιχεία σας. Αν ο Δήμος δεν μπορεί να επικοινωνήσει μαζί σας και το κατοικίδιο ζώο έχει κρατηθεί από το Δήμο, ενδέχεται να σας επιβληθεί χρέωση απελευθέρωσης ή πρόστιμο.

Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες τηλεφωνήστε στο 9262 6333 ή αναζητήστε ‘Registering Your Pet’ (“Εγγραφή του κατοικιδίου σας”) στον ιστότοπο του Δήμου.

Προτεινόμενη πώληση γης

Ο Δήμος εξετάζει μια πρόταση για την πώληση μέρους της γης μας και την αγορά άλλης γης σε συμφωνία με την Suburban Rail Loop Authority.

Η πρόταση περιλαμβάνει όπως ο Δήμος:

▪ Πουλήσει το 10-12 Watts Street και

το 11 Court St, Box Hill to the SRLA

▪ και αγοράσει το 528 Station Street, Box Hill from the SRLA.

Η υποβολή σχολίων κλείνει τη Δευτέρα 25 Μαρτίου. Μάθετε περισσότερα σχετικά με την πρόταση επισκεπτόμενοι το yoursay. whitehorse.vic.gov.au/boxhill

Evento gratuito – ‘Festa culturale’

Venite alla ‘Festa culturale’ a celebrare il multiculturalismo a Whitehorse. L’evento si terrà domenica 24 marzo dalle 12:00 alle 16:00

È un evento gratuito che si terrà presso la Strathdon House and Orchard Precint a Forest Hill. Potrete divertirvi con le attività gratuite, assaggiare stuzzichini sfiziosi, e ammirare manifestazioni culturali e musica da molte parti e culture del mondo.

Per maggior informazioni visitate creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au Sta per scadere il termine per la registrazione degli animali domestici

Avete un cane o un gatto a casa? Registrare gli animali domestici è fondamentale per essere un/una proprietario/a responsabile e la scadenza per il rinnovo delle registrazioni è mercoledì 10 aprile

Tutti i cani e tutti i gatti che vivono a Whitehorse devono essere registrati presso il Comune una volta raggiunti i tre mesi di vita. Se vi siete trasferiti/e o avete cambiato numero di telefono, ricordate di aggiornare i vostri dati. Se il Comune non può contattarvi e il vostro animale domestico viene sequestrato, potreste dover pagare un costo per il rilascio o una multa.

Per maggiori informazioni chiamate il numero 9262 6333 oppure cercate ‘Registering Your Pet’ sul sito del Comune.

Proposta di vendita di terreno

Il Consiglio comunale sta valutando una proposta per la vendita di una parte dei terreni comunali e l’acquisto di altri nell’ambito di un accordo con la Suburban Rail Loop Authority.

Il Consiglio sta valutando una proposta che prevede:

▪ Vendita di 10-12 Watts Street e 11 Court St, Box Hill alla SRLA e

▪ acquisto di 528 Station Street, Box Hill dalla SRLA.

Avete tempo di esprimere la vostra opinione fino a lunedì 25 marzo. Per maggiori informazioni sulla proposta visitate yoursay.whitehorse.vic. gov.au/boxhill

WHITEHORSE CALENDAR

The Round

Oliver!

NOVA Music Theatre proudly presents Lionel Bart’s Oliver! –a musical extravaganza.

Dates: Friday 15 March to Sunday 24 March

Venue: The Round Theatre

Tickets: $45-55

More details: theround.com.au

Positive Ageing

Free hearing checks

Pop along to get a free hearing check from the Hearing Australia team – no booking required.

Date: Thursday 14 March, 10am – 2.30pm

Venue: Nunawading Community Hub

More details: 9262 6485

Environment

Eucalypts of Stephens Reserve

Join Tony, author of ‘Guide to Eucalypts of Whitehorse and Surrounds’, to learn how to identify eucalypts, including some of our most common indigenous species.

Date: Friday 15 March, 10am – 12pm

Venue: Stephens Reserve, Vermont

More details: Belinda on 0466 556 403

The climate is changing, and we’re the solution

Join presenters Good For The Hood for simple tips on what you and your community group or organisation can do to tackle climate change.

Date: Sunday 24 March, 1.30pm – 4pm

Venue: Box Hill Community Arts Centre

More details: Search ‘Sustainable Living’ on Council’s website

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 10 March, 9am – 1pm

Where: Whitehorse Civic Centre, Nunawading

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

Arts Nunawading Market

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

When: Sunday 24 March, 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

Supporting our neurodiverse young people

Learn more about neurodiversity with presenter Mel, a social worker and parent with autism and ADHD, sharing their experiences navigating life with a mind the world doesn’t always cater for. Designed for ages 3 - 8.

When: Tuesday 19 March, 7pm – 8.30pm

Where: Online forum

More information: Bookings at trybooking.com/COWZK

Creative Whitehorse

International Women’s Day celebration

Celebrate International Women’s Day with the Box Hill Hand Spinners and Weavers. Join our hands-on spinning workshop and enjoy Devonshire tea and scones.

When: Friday 8 March, 10am – 1pm

Where: Strathdon House and Orchard Precinct, Forest Hill Cost: $55

Bookings: creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au

Slip casting

Learn the basics of slip casting in this 2.5 hour workshop, focusing on onepart molds. Ideal for beginners and those building on their ceramics skills.

When: Sunday 17 March, 1pm – 3.30pm

Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre, Box Hill

Cost: $80, includes materials

Bookings: creativewhitehorse.vic.gov.au

Pruning keeps trees clear of power lines

Pruning will occur in Box Hill South during March.

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.

From Friday 1 March 2024, immunisations can be booked online through a new State Government platform that also includes electronic consent.

L For bookings visit whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ immunisation-dates