February 2021
Lunar New Year The Chinese New Year Festival event in Box Hill is not being held in 2021, but read how our community members celebrate Lunar New Year.
Image credit: Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne
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Whitehorse Civic Awards
Activate Whitehorse
Whitehorse Centre
Supporting businesses
Find out who received the top awards in Whitehorse. Page 3
Get involved with placemaking around Whitehorse. Page 4
Sustainability will be a central focus throughout the project. Page 13
How recovering businesses can get help from Council. Page 15
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Contact Whitehorse City Council
Mayor’s message
Whitehorse City Council, Locked Bag 2, Nunawading, VIC 3131
Cr Andrew Munroe
customer.service@whitehorse.vic.gov.au www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au Phone: 9262 6333 Fax: 9262 6490 NRS: 133 677 then quote 9262 6333 Customer service centres
Whitehorse News online
Whitehorse Civic Centre
Sign up to our e-version and read the Whitehorse News online at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ whitehorse-news
Forest Hill Chase Shopping Centre Box Hill Town Hall Council meetings
Translation services
We’ve seen very positive results in relation to COVID case numbers and testing in recent weeks. We all have a role to play to ensure our community stays safe. It is important that we continue to wear masks in certain settings including in ride-share vehicles, retail settings and public transport. If you are unwell with even mild symptoms, please get tested. City Oval Precinct redevelopment Council is seeking funding from Victorian Government for a redevelopment of City Oval and Bolton Park in Box Hill. We want to hear from our community as to what you’d like to see included in the redevelopment.
Council meetings are live streamed at webcast. whitehorse.vic.gov.au
For free interpreting assistance call 131 450. Mention the language you speak and ask to be connected to Whitehorse City Council. Chinese / 中文 Greek / Ελληνικά The proposal includes a Chinese / 中文 Greek / Ελληνικά 如需免费口译协助，请致电 Για δωρεάν βοήθεια με refurbishment of the existing 131 450。电话接通后，请说出 διερμηνεία τηλεφωνήστε στο south pavilion. The north 如需免费口译协助，请致电 Για βοήθειαwould με γλώσσα 你说的语言，并要求转接白马 131δωρεάν 450. pavilion Αναφέρετε τη be demolished 131 450。电话接通后，请说出 διερμηνεία στο 市政府。 που ομιλείτετηλεφωνήστε και ζητήστε να and replaced with a multi-use 你说的语言，并要求转接白马 131 450. Αναφέρετε τη γλώσσα συνδεθείτε με το Δήμο του pavilion including 市政府。 που ομιλείτε και ζητήστε να player facilities, Whitehorse.
Sustainability
Italian / Italiano
Whitehorse News is printed on paper manufactured at a PEFC and FSC Certified Paper Mill and is produced using soy-based inks.
Italian / Italiano Per assistenza di interpretariato
Ordinary Council meeting Tuesday 8 February, 7pm Delegated Committee meeting Tuesday 22 February, 7pm These meetings will be held via remote technology, with no attendance in-person.
Chinese Chinese // 中文 中文
Acknowledgement 如需免费口译协助，请致电 of Country 如需免费口译协助，请致电
131 131 450。电话接通后，请说出 450。电话接通后，请说出 你说的语言，并要求转接白马 In the spirit of reconciliation, 你说的语言，并要求转接白马 市政府。 市政府。City Council Whitehorse
acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians the land. Italian Italiano Italian //of Italiano We pay our respects to their Per assistenza di Elders and present. Perpast assistenza di interpretariato interpretariato
chiama chiama ilil 131 131 450. 450. Indica Indica la la lingua lingua Information correct che parli e chiedi di essere che parli e chiedi di essere messo messo in con at time of printing: in contatto contatto con ilil Whitehorse Whitehorse City City Council. Monday 25 January 2021. Council.
chiama il 131 450. Indica la lingua Per di interpretariato che assistenza parli e chiedi di essere messo chiama il 131 450. Indica la lingua in contatto con il Whitehorse City che parli e chiedi di essere messo Council. in contatto con il Whitehorse City Greek Council. Greek // Ελληνικά Ελληνικά Για Για δωρεάν δωρεάν βοήθεια βοήθεια με με διερμηνεία διερμηνεία τηλεφωνήστε τηλεφωνήστε στο στο 131 131 450. 450. Αναφέρετε Αναφέρετε τη τη γλώσσα γλώσσα που που ομιλείτε ομιλείτε και και ζητήστε ζητήστε να να συνδεθείτε με το Δήμο του συνδεθείτε με το Δήμο του Whitehorse. Whitehorse.
Vietnamese Vietnamese // Tiếng Tiếng Việt Việt Để Để được được hỗ hỗ trợ trợ thông thông dịch dịch miễn miễn phí hãy gọi số 131 450. phí hãy gọi số 131 450. Hãy Hãy nói nói tên tên ngôn ngữ của quý vị và yêu cầu ngôn ngữ của quý vị và yêu cầu được được kết kết nối nối với với Hội Hội đồng đồng Thành Thành phố Whitehorse. phố Whitehorse.
February 2021
συνδεθείτε με το Δήμο του Whitehorse. / Tiếng Việt Vietnamese
HowTiếng has Vietnamese ViệtCOVID-19 Để được hỗ trợ/ thông dịch miễn
a function space and grandstand and spectator concourse. The new facilities will support the growth in women’s participation in sport and will provide access to elite facilities to female participants, including players, officials, media, spectators and volunteers. Our community will also benefit from the redevelopment, with an upgrade of accessible walking paths. Perimeter walking loop, fitness equipment, multi-use sport court and table tennis equipment is planned as part of the project. City Oval is a highly used facility with a rich history of supporting the community and sporting clubs, so it’s important we hear from our community to ensure our plans meet your needs. More information www.oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/ cityovalproject
affected you?
phí hãy gọi số 131 450. Hãy nói tênundertaking Council has been Để được trợ thông ngôn ngữhỗ của quý vị vàdịch yêumiễn cầu anốisố community wellbeing phí hãy 131Hội 450. HãyThành nói tên được kếtgọi với đồng survey since October to ngôn ngữ của quý vị và yêu cầu phố Whitehorse. được kết better nối với Hội đồng Thành how understand phố Whitehorse. our community is managing
the pandemic. The information from the survey will assist in future planning, working towards a COVID normal and advocating for the needs and priorities of our community when liaising with State and Federal Government bodies around COVID relief. The questions in the survey relate to: ■ What challenges are you facing from social isolation?
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Do you have any concerns around catching the virus? What is providing relief/support for you during this time? How you are getting information on COVID-19?
Participants can continue to sign up until late 2021. If you live, work or study in Whitehorse, please consider taking part in this survey. The information gathered will directly influence Council’s COVID-19 response and recovery. More information https://whitehorsecc.secure. force.com/r/wellbeing
February 2021
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2021 Whitehorse Civic Awards
Community Achievement Award Citizen of the Year David Winter For many years David has provided support to our community, through donations and fundraisers to local community organisations. Through 2020, he provided a meals on wheels service to vulnerable people in the community, many of whom were unable to leave their home due to the pandemic. This service grew and, on average, provided more than 400 meals each week.
Uncle John Baxter John is a highly respected community Elder, a passionate advocate for reconciliation and champion for all Aboriginal people, especially those living with disabilities. John takes an active role in the life of Victoria’s Aboriginal community. He is a member of reconciliation Victoria, Whitehorse Reconciliation Advisory Committee and a regular contributor to the Mullum Mullum Festival. Eric Harvey Eric joined Box Hill Art Group in 1995 and became secretary in 2000. He is still currently continuing in this role today. During his 20 years of service to the Box Hill Art Group, Eric has developed an extensive network of relationships on the group’s behalf, all of which contribute to making the group flourish. James Lambert James has made an enormous contribution to the Blackburn environment, in particular, the Blackburn Creeklands bushland park. He is a wonderful example of the long-lasting value of volunteers who bring vision, energy and commitment to our community. Steve Roberts
Young Citizen of the Year Nathaniel Diong Nathaniel is an inspiring role model for CALD youth hoping for a better future. A Whitehorse resident, Nathan is doing phenomenal work to bring together diverse communities in a range of high-impact programs. Australia Day Trophy Victorian Obedience Dog Club This award is in recognition of the Victorian Obedience Dog Club’s programs to provide training and support for dog owners to be confident and raise well-behaved and socialised dogs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the club provided weekly training sessions via Zoom and support to people with new pets who weren’t able to attend inperson training sessions.
Steve created the beautiful linear garden that runs along the freeway wall from the eastern edge of Slater Reserve up to around Brendale Court, a distance of about 400m on each side of the path. Doug Terrill Doug has been an active committee member at local community organisations for many years. This includes Heatherdale Community Action Group and Heatherdale Tennis Club, where he led a project into water saving court surface options, which was later used by many tennis clubs. He currently helps with Sunday School activities at Mountview Uniting Church. Cliff Walsh Cliff has been a part of Forest Hill Woodturners since 1993 and is held in high regard by all involved at the club. Cliff shares his knowledge and expertise with all members and is the principal teacher for all new club members. Cliff also writes articles for magazines and the club newsletter.
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February 2021
Working for Whitehorse The friendly spaces of Whitehorse Connecting people has been a recent focus of Whitehorse Council as part of its placemaking initiative, Activate Whitehorse.
This is achieved not just by changing how a place looks but altering the relationship people have with it, which requires interaction and the creation of an experience.
This has taken shape in many ways, but its primary objective is to encourage people to work together to activate places in Whitehorse, whether it be shaping their local story through community gatherings, using Activation Pods or helping to transform a Blackburn Village laneway to make the area more friendly to the community (see below).
Activate Whitehorse has resulted in the beautification of spaces in the Britannia Mall, Brentford Square and Box Hill Mall (pictured right) with splashes of colour and changing the look, feel, colour and texture of a place.
Activations invigorate our places, making them vibrant and welcoming, which are essential for building and supporting the community and local economy. The best way to transform local environments is to invite the community to emotionally invest in places through their personal involvement.
Community-led activations strengthen relationships to public space. The shaping of a place happens through community involvement. Activation Pods are public spaces that can be booked for free by eligible community groups. An activation may be influenced by arts, culture and creativity and recognises inclusiveness, being available to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Examples of this can include
Laneway revitalised A drab Blackburn laneway was transformed into a vibrant community hub within a matter of days as part of Whitehorse Council’s commitment to helping businesses and communities thrive as COVID-19 restrictions ease.
events like music, games, tai chi, visual arts or a book exchange. There are three pods in Box Hill Mall and one each in Britannia Mall and Brentford Square. Teams of community members can also kickstart activations in their community through the
Working off an idea from Whitehorse business owner and resident Amy To and in collaboration with enthusiastic local traders, the urban picnic park installation is designed to foster community engagement. Ms To was thrilled with the result, saying she was “ecstatic – this is the best Christmas ever”. “My vision of Amor Mexico is not just a restaurant – I see it as a community conscious cultural hub,” she said. “A place where people can come together to connect, create and celebrate. “It’s a space for residents and I hope it will drive a lot of business for local traders. It will play a vital role in reinvigorating the area and driving the local economy.” Moving from their Forest Hill location after 16 years to Blackburn, Ms To was enthused
Activation Booster Fund with up to $1000. More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ activate-whitehorse Above: James Murphy at one of the Activation Pods in Box Hill Mall.
with the support shown first by Councillor Andrew Munroe and then from within Council. “I congratulate Amy To on approaching council with a vision to activate a laneway off South Parade,” Cr Munroe said. “Council is keen to work with the community to activate underutilised areas, with a focus on outdoor dining as part of our recovery from COVID-19.” The laneway went from bare to complete within two weeks. “It started as a community initiative. From dream to reality, it takes many hands to make it happen and I am so grateful for the Council support,” Ms To said. The urban picnic park is in the newly named Community Lane in Blackburn Village, off Blackburn Road.
February 2021
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Cultural Diversity Week 15 – 21 March 2021 Due to COVID-19 and restrictions around large gatherings, the annual Global Fiesta event will not be held in Box Hill Gardens this year. Instead, we will celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Whitehorse over an entire week – from 15 to 21 March. Community groups are invited to host a performance, activity or information stall during Global Fiesta Week at one of the new activation pods in Box Hill Mall. The theme for the week-long celebration is ‘We are Whitehorse’. To help develop this new event, not-for-profit community organisations based in Whitehorse who would like to get involved are asked to email global.fiesta@whitehorse.vic.gov.au This is a great opportunity to share your culture, promote your club, and embrace our multicultural community. From Wurundjeri beginnings to a community shaped by immigration, Whitehorse is home to people from many cultures, languages and faiths. This year’s Global Fiesta Week will be a celebration of who we are, what we value and how we belong.
Classes only a Zoom call away U3A Nunawading had to adapt to a rapidly changing environment to maintain a service to its members in 2020. When COVID-19 struck last year, U3A Nunawading’s committee was under no illusions as to the difficulties that lay ahead for its members. The volunteer-run organisation which supports positive ageing, had 2200 members who attended face-to-face classes at the beginning of 2020, with minimal digital presence. They are most proud of their membership base that quickly adapted to the changing circumstances. The average age of members is 72 years old. It challenges the stereotype about digital connectivity for retired and semi-retired community members. “We had perhaps 100 members to start with online … and ended up with about 80 classes per week and probably between 800 and 1000 people attending at least one Zoom session a week,” Ken Briscoe, the group’s
Zoom administrator, said. “Some members actually preferred it because they didn’t have to come out. We anticipate some members may continue to do Zoom-only classes.” President Liz Hooper said COVID-19 had “changed our practices, probably forever”. “We’ve been impressed with how willing
people have been to grasp the new technology,” she said. “Of the 2200 members, only 96 now do not have emails. Our systems are improving all the time, but our membership is embracing technology.”
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February 2021
Youth ConneXions Youth ConneXions is Whitehorse Council’s youth information, support and referral centre based at Centro Box Hill Shopping Centre. The centre offers a comfortable and supportive environment for young people aged 12-25, to find information and seek help on a range of issues. Youth ConneXions is open Monday to Friday with appointments from 1pm and drop-in sessions from 2pm to 5pm. More information youth.worker@whitehorse.vic.gov.au 9898 9340 Youth ConneXions – team profiles Jules – Youth Connexions Coordinator Jules has been the Youth ConneXions coordinator for almost 10 years. You can find him up at the centre playing pool and table tennis as the self-proclaimed champion of both at the youth centre. He also loves music, especially hip hop and uses his passion and skills in the Youth ConneXions studio working with young people to create and record music. Amy – Youth Centre Worker Amy has been in the Whitehorse Youth Services team for more than a decade and still enjoys every minute of it. She is the friendly face at Youth ConneXions, making sure everyone is welcomed. Amy is always up for a game of cards, Mario Kart or to be there to listen openly and free of judgement.
Is your child about to start kindergarten? If so, your child is probably due for their three-and-a-half-yearold Maternal and Child Health Service appointment. Council’s service offers a free visit to ensure your child is given the best start to kindergarten and school. It is an opportunity to raise any concerns concerning your child’s development as well as discussing physical and emotional health, growth and development.
Also considered and addressed are: ■ speech; ■ nutrition; ■ safety; ■ caring for teeth; ■ kindergarten information; and ■ immunisation requirements. The maternal and child health nurse will also perform a vision test on your child. “This check helped me to be aware that my child’s development was on track and the nurse was able
to pick up on things that I might have missed as a parent,” a local mother said of the Council service. “For example, the eye test and she also checked that my daughter had a pencil grip. As a parent I took great comfort in my daughter graduating from the Maternal and Child Health Service.” Don’t miss out on your chance to ensure your child’s health and development is on track. More information 9262 6332
Jac – Youth Participation Officer Jac has worked at Whitehorse for the past nine years. Jac is passionate about helping young people and making a positive impact on their lives. Embracing diversity and difference without judgement in all young people, she works with them to achieve their goals. Jac feels strongly about advocating on behalf of the young people she supports.
February 2021
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Talking with teens and surviving VCE Council’s Parenting Information Forum program provides information and resources to parents, grandparents and carers of Whitehorse.
Moving from primary to secondary school is a big transition – for children and parents.
Whitehorse families will have a chance to get a greater understanding of what their children are going through at two Parent Information Forums in February.
It can be a time full of fun, excitement and new experiences, but it can also be challenging or worrying for many children. You can help by making sure your child is prepared and feels supported.
Taming Your Teen
Be prepared for ups and downs. Adjusting to change takes time, but if things don’t stabilise after the first term, talk to your child’s home-room teacher or year-level coordinator in the first instance.
Presented by Parentzone and Anglicare When: 7pm, Thursday 11 February Where: via Zoom
Aiming to help people improve their relationship with their teenage child. It will also look at how to improve communication, resolve family disputes and getting your teens to listen without nagging or screaming. Learn ways to manage the anxiety of persons young and old and explore why young people use alcohol, drugs and behave in other risky ways.
Remind your child that it’s normal to feel nervous about starting something new – for example, you could share how nervous and excited you feel when starting a new job. Strive and Thrive VCE Together Presented by Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria When: 7pm, Tuesday 23 February Where: via Zoom
A presentation where families and young people can come and learn together. The workshop will look at the big VCE picture and talk about realistic expectations. Learn some practical self-help skills to develop sound strategies for managing stress and anxiety leading up to VCE. Bookings can be made directly from the Whitehorse Council website. More information parentresource@whitehorse.vic.gov.au 9262 6175
Immunisation Council provides free vaccinations against infectious diseases for children aged from six weeks to 19 years old and a limited range of vaccines for eligible adults in accordance with the National Immunisation Program Schedule. Council has a booking system for the Public Immunisation Program.
Support for secondary school starters
To make a booking, please phone 9262 6197. Those without a booking will not be vaccinated. More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ immunisation
Scan the QR code for the immunisation schedule.
Try to make sure your child eats well, gets plenty of physical activity and gets plenty of sleep. Stay calm. If you’re calm and reassuring you’ll give your child more confidence. Your child’s transition to secondary school is a big change for you too. Your relationship with your child’s primary school might be ending, and you’re likely to have a different sort of relationship with your child’s secondary school. It’s normal to have mixed feelings about these changes. Remember that they still need your support outside of school and that it’s all part of the way they develop greater independence. Sourced from: Raising Children Network
Study support The Whitehorse Study Support Program is a free tutoring service run by Council’s Youth Services at the Box Hill Library. The program aims to help young people aged 12 to 25 who need support with their education, with subjects including mathematics, English and science. The program has been online during COVID-19, but is hoped to resume its regular slot of 4pm to 6pm on Thursdays during the school term. More information Youth Participation Officer – Jacqueline Piper jacqueline.piper@whitehorse.vic.gov.au 0408 356 997
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Happy and prospe Lunar New Yea Whitehorse City Council wishes a happy and prosperous new year to all those in our community who celebrate the Lunar New Year. Falling on the new moon day of the first lunar month, we are entering the Year of the Ox. In Chinese culture, the ox is seen as hardworking, positive and honest. Alfred Chi, founding president of the Peranakan Association Australia
Kim-Long Thi To, Mang-Non Vietnamese Language School Association principal
Like many Australians, this is a time of celebration for Alfred Chi. Emigrating from Malaysia, Mr Chi takes pride in honouring the traditions and embracing the spirit of togetherness and happiness.
Celebrations start on Lunar New Year’s Eve for Kim-Long Thi To, when families traditionally gather in the elders’ home.
“How Chinese New Year is celebrated in China is what we do in Malaysia because we still want to maintain that connection,” he said. Traditionally there are 15 days of celebration, however, because it’s not a holiday in Australia, local celebrations are “more diluted”. Mr Chi’s family will visit a temple during the first three days. “We go there to pay respect to the Gods … it is the first thing that most people do,” he said. “You find the temple is usually crowded, joss sticks are being lit, but there is an atmosphere of celebration.” Many of the traditions focus on bringing good luck for the year ahead, such as buying new clothes, wearing bright colours or hanging red cloth or banners on your home. “There is the dragon dance, a noisy, big drum and firecrackers to drive away evil forces,” Mr Chi said.
“That night we cook only traditional food and we have ancestor worship,” she said. “We pray for the futures, we give thanks for our Gods or the ancestors to provide us with food, health, wellbeing and things like that.” The next day, children visit elders at their home and are given a monetary gift in a red envelope or packet, wishing each other good health and happiness.
Charlie Xu, former Chinese New Year Festival Box Hill director Lunar New Year has traditionally been a hectic time for Charlie Xu, who was heavily involved with the Chinese New Year Festival in Box Hill for 10 years.
three times as many people attending, making it one of the largest multicultural events in Victoria. More responsibility on the organisation and greater professional involvement changed things behind the scenes, but the festival’s focus has remained consistent.
“It is part of a very important celebration for the whole Asian community, not just Chinese,” he said. “It is a very successful event for a lot of people to celebrate.”Since starting in 2002, the festival has grown from about 25,000 visitors to
“People are coming to this larger event more for the celebration,” Mr Xu said. “We ensure there is a lot of food and a large red colour presence for happiness and we have the lanterns in the streets so people can feel involved in the celebration.”
She said the local celebrations were similar to what she experienced in Vietnam.
Siao Du, Timorese Taiwan Alumni Association president
“Vietnam has a holiday every year, for the three or four days,” Mrs To said. “We cook the day before a lot of food. During the three days we just enjoy ourselves, see people, see friends, we play and don’t cook at all.”
Siao Du thinks the Timorese Taiwanese community get the best of both worlds – celebrating the western and Lunar New Years.
A special dish likely to be seen is sticky rice cake. Made of mung bean and pork filling and encased with sticky rice before being wrapped in banana leaves in square or cylindrical shapes, the banh chung and banh tet cakes are an integral part of the celebrations.
Did you know is commonly r Festival (tradit simplified Chi Jié). In Vietna known as Tết known as Seo
As a former Portuguese colony, East Timor has western culture influences, but many young people travel to Taiwan for education and are introduced to other celebrations. “It’s a party time,” Ms Du said. “Timorese people (are) very happy. They have the same vibe as Latin American people, focusing on enjoyment and family.”
Having immigrated to Australia in 1977, Ms Du said it used to be difficult to celebrate Lunar New, but that has changed. “Now we can go to Chinatown to buy anything,” she said. “We can go to the cemetery and buy paper to burn or incense to burn to respect your ancestors.” Traditionally families enjoy a 12-course meal, with each course having a different focus, such as health, children or life. Mahjong is a common pastime for family members to play. Paying respect to elders and teaching that to younger people is also part of the celebrations.
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erous ar
w? In China, the festival referred to as the Spring tional Chinese: 春節; inese: 春节; pinyin: Chūn am, Lunar New Year is t. In Korea, it is ollal (설날).
While the Chinese New Year Festival is not being held in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19, Mr Xu is already looking forward to the 2022 event. “People bring their family, friends, classmates and teammates – everyone comes to celebrate and enjoy the culture,” he said. “There is a passion for us to bring people together. It is a great opportunity to show our culture, to share our knowledge and show our traditions.”
“People have to try their best to be very nice people, which is good for society and the community,” Ms Du said.
Councillor Tina Liu The Lunar New Year is arguably the most important date on the lunar calendar, celebrated in many Asian cultures. Like many migrant families – myself, being a child of Taiwanese migrants raised in Australia – it’s somewhat of an east-meetswest experience, a colourful, vibrant medley of both cultures. Betty Tse, a member of the Whitehorse Interfaith Network and the Fo Guang Shan Er You Temple Lunar New Year is traditionally a busy time for Box Hill’s Fo Guang Shan Er You Temple, a Taiwan-based order that practices humanistic Buddhism. Traditional temple celebrations include three days of services, starting Lunar New Year’s Eve, offering the first incense of the year. “On the first and second day of Lunar New Year, we pay homage to One Thousand Buddhas,” Ms Tse said. “Everyone is welcome to participate in our dharma service at any time.”People start the year making their wishes by ringing the wishing bell. “The sounds are linking heaven and the ground – it is a kind of blessing,” Ms Tse said. “Australia is a multicultural society, with many Chinese speaking people living in Box Hill and surrounding suburbs. “We are very fortunate to be able to celebrate this festival in a traditional way reflecting cultures from various Asian countries. We also want to help people understand Buddhism’s culture a little bit more.” This year the temple will hold an art exhibition for a short time, showing one-stroke calligraphies from the monastery’s founder and artworks from the temple’s devotees in place of the usual festivities.
The occasion is not only to usher in the new year, but it is also a time for family and loved ones to come together. Food plays such an important part of Asian culture. Some of my fondest memories during this time is cooking with my family. In our household, it was not uncommon to see Lunar New Year dishes prepped alongside a traditional Aussie barbecue. One of our long-held traditions is making dumplings – a muchloved family recipe passed down through the generations. Dumpling making is an art form in itself – testing one’s folding skills and also patience – and always provided a good opportunity to catch up with relatives. These delectable morsels are a celebration staple, symbolising prosperity and good
fortune or wealth, as its shape is reminiscent of a traditional gold ingot (‘yuan bao’). The sharing of cultures, food and New Year greetings and well-wishes are certainly part of the celebrations, but most importantly it is the coming together of our community. As we usher in the Year of the Ox, I hope that like the animal it represents, 2021 will be a much more positive, fruitful, and diligent year for all. It is also fantastic to see the annual Chinese New Year Festival in Box Hill – which I have had the pleasure of being a part of – being embraced by locals of various backgrounds.
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The views expressed are those of individual Councillors and do not necessarily reflect Council policy or the views of Council as a whole.
Whitehorse City Council is divided into 11 single-councillor wards. The following Councillors have been elected to serve until October 2024.
Eley Ward
Elgar Ward
Trudy Skilbeck 0435 188 822 trudy.skilbeck@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Blair Barker 0459 857 280 blair.barker@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Cootamundra Ward
Lake Ward
Mahoneys Ward
Andrew Munroe – Mayor 0429 138 140 andrew.munroe@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Denise Massoud 0409 230 499 denise.massoud@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Mark Lane 0435 387 526 mark.lane@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Whitehorse Council recognised for heritage promotion Whitehorse Council has been recognised by the Victorian statutory authority responsible for protecting and conserving the state’s history as exhibiting best practice in communication and promoting heritage in the area. Using online and physical channels to manage and support local heritage, as well as promoting the importance of local heritage throughout the community, the Heritage Council of Victoria was particularly impressed by the webpage dedicated to ‘Heritage in Whitehorse’, the annual Heritage Assistance Fund and Heritage Week programs. Dr Cael Leskovec from the Heritage Council said Whitehorse Council’s approach was “an example of best practice” and may offer some “insights or lessons from other councils wishing to establish or improve their communication”. Heritage Week, which sees more than 1500 people attend each year, also received praise, as well as the family open day at Schwerkolt and Museum Complex. Whitehorse Council hopes that the promotional events help to instill the importance of and pride in local heritage in the community. As of April 2019, Whitehorse Council had eight individual heritage places of state significance and 256 of local significance, with almost 1000 more heritage properties. A copy of the report can be found at https://bit.ly/2Lq8jXt
By Cr Denise Massoud
By Cr Mark Lane
Firstly thank you for expressing your confidence and supporting my re-election to Council to represent your interests.
I was certainly humbled and honoured to be elected to represent Mahoneys Ward.
2020 has been challenging but I look forward to a more positive 2021. This month I introduce the wonderful new community facility in Lake Ward, the Nunawading Community Hub, located at the site of the original Nunawading Primary School. Having been on Council since the concept originated to purchase land from State Government, restore and incorporate the Nunawading Primary School building into the design and then seeing this project through build to completion has been particularly satisfying. After much consultation many community groups are now relocating to the new facility with spaces specifically designed to fulfil their needs. This includes Nunawading University of the Third Age, Whitehorse Arts Association, The Nunawading & District Lapidary Club, Eastern Access Community Health, Meals on Wheels, Blackburn Vikings Basketball Club, Whitehorse Chevaliers Fencing Club, Thornburn Ladies’ Badminton Association, Whitehorse Activities Club. There is also a cafe for visitors. Drop in and see this wonderful facility. At the rear of the site, where it opens out to Tunstall Park, there is a barbecue with shelter. The barbecue is free to use. Bookings are not required. This is a great addition for community use such as families catch up and children can play in the park. This offers another great open space destination for residents. Please contact me if you have issues or ideas you wish to discuss. The next Lake Ward Forum will be at 4pm Sunday 16 May. Wishing everyone a healthy and happy 2021.
Having represented the old Morack Ward previously, I know many of you and look forward to representing you again in shaping our community into the future. Many of you have already reached out with ideas and thoughts on what we can achieve to benefit all in our community. Thank you for taking the time and I will be progressing many initiatives raised and hope to see them come to fruition in the near future. It is great to see the Nunawading Aqualink community consultation underway and look forward to working through the feedback and what it means for the facility going forward. The feedback will help inform the refurbishment of and changes to the facility as it requires some renewal. Whilst 2020 has been a challenging year for us all, 2021 looks to be better and hopefully will see us return to some greater level of normal life very soon. 2021 will still have its challenges for our city with many local and government projects underway that impact on our community. Please do not hesitate in contacting me with any thoughts, ides or concerns on the contact details above. Thank you for your support and I look forward to the council term ahead. Cr Mark Lane is looking forward to developing a master plan for how Whitehorse Council can better use the space at Healesville Freeway Reserve for the community.
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
Walker Ward
Simpson Ward
Cr Amanda McNeill 0435 158 360 amanda.mcneill@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Cr Ben Stennett 0448 375 937 ben.stennett@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Cr Prue Cutts 0409 867 540 prue.cutts@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Sparks Ward
Wattle Ward
Terrara Ward
Cr Tina Liu 0418 121 357 tina.liu@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Cr Andrew Davenport 0407 652 145 andrew.davenport@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
Cr Raylene Carr – Deputy Mayor 0400 886 889 raylene.carr@whitehorse.vic.gov.au
By Cr Tina Liu
By Cr Andrew Davenport
By Cr Raylene Carr
I trust everyone has had a safe and enjoyable festive break and wish a Happy New Year to all.
Community consultation
Well, here we are … a new year and still living with COVID.
It is great to be back on Council as the Councillor for the new Sparks Ward. I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and appreciate all the feedback/ ideas from our community. I look forward to working with you – there is much to be done and I am committed to continue fostering a Whitehorse that is a great place to live, work and play. It has been a challenging past 12 months and we are all adapting to the ‘new normal’. Council continues to focus on providing support, including assisting our local businesses. Round two of the Pandemic Recovery for Whitehorse Businesses is about to kick off. More information can be found on the Council website. Stage one planning of the Suburban Rail Loop is also underway and is looking for community input around precinct design for the stations – two of which will be in Whitehorse (Box Hill and Burwood). For details, visit https://suburbanrailloop.vic.gov.au
As we ease out of restrictions, I have attended many community events via Zoom and small in-person gatherings – including dropping by Box Hill Bunnings to support Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Eastern Metro’s sausage sizzle (pictured above). With the Lunar New Year approaching this month, I would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Ox.
Many residents have told me that often they find out about Council projects after the designs are complete and project build is underway. They have also said that they would like to be informed and involved sooner. Community consultation is a balance between involving the community and getting things done as effectively as possible. Whilst Council has a consultation program as part of the decision making process, I am keen to hear directly from you. If you have any issues you would like to discuss, please contact me on the details above. Budget 2021/22 The planning for the Whitehorse Budget for 2021/22 is underway. Whilst my focus is to reduce Council expenses and keep rates as low as possible, I recognise that there are some activities Council needs to further invest in to meet community requirements. If you see an issue or find areas of Council waste, please contact me without delay. Whitehorse Council calendar This year’s Whitehorse calendar is a tribute to the open spaces, beautiful parks and precious bushland of Whitehorse and the moments of peace they gave us during 2020. If you haven’t received a copy of our 2021 calendar, it is still available to download from our website at www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/about-council/ news/2021-whitehorse-calendar Nominations for the Order of Australia Do you know someone within the City of Whitehorse who you believe has contributed to the community which is worthy of recognition of an Order of Australia award, especially from the CALD community but not sure about the process? If so, contact me and I’d be pleased to be part of the nomination process.
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I am not normally a pessimist, however I suspect we will be living with this virus for a very long time to come. Only tonight, I heard international travel may be off limits for the rest of 2021. On a positive note, I hope you managed to enjoy your Christmas celebrations and take a relaxing break to enjoy some family time. Nunawading Community Hub I was fortunate to be part of a Councillor contingent to view the sensational Nunawading Community Hub. Please take a look at my Facebook page for photos. Budget All Councillors have submitted their budget allocations for the 2021/22 Budget. Time will tell if they receive support. Australia Day While Council had to forego its usual Whitehorse Australia Day Concert celebrations, we still managed to have our citizenship and awards ceremonies. They were conducted in two sessions, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Still enjoyable, but definitely not the same. Terrara Park Construction is progressing nicely. While a large portion of Terrara Park is fenced off, there is still plenty of room for off-lead dog walking and for sporting activities. Construction of the pavilion is expected to be completed by October and there is no interruption to play due to temporary facilities being installed.
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February 2021
Pruning keeps trees clear of power lines Council manages tree pruning on public land to ensure a safe distances between trees and power lines. Pruning will occur in Mont Albert North and Surrey Hills in February. 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 www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ naturestrips
Throwing the right type of shade Trees provide environmental, social and health benefits for our municipality. They shade our streets, attract birds and insects, add to our sense of place and make our suburbs more liveable. For these reasons and more, Council is updating its urban forest strategy. The strategy will focus on trees and vegetation in our parks, on streets and private land and aims to achieve 30 per cent canopy cover across Whitehorse. Whitehorse has about 18 per cent canopy cover. A cover of 30 per cent will allow us to maximise all the benefits trees can bring to our community
Electronic waste (e-waste) and clothing home pick-up is back Thread:Collect is back for Whitehorse households to call on after gathering 5438kg of clothing and 182kg of e-waste in December, diverting it away from landfill. This convenient and contactless home pick-up service for clothing and small electrical items, is an easy way to recycle right and to help keep valuable resources out of landfill. Clothing remains one of the top five things incorrectly put in kerbside recycling bins.
Your favourite tree?
– including benefits to the environment, our health and wellbeing and even the value of our homes. Council only owns about 10 per cent of the land in Whitehorse, so we cannot achieve 30 per cent canopy cover alone. We seek your input to the urban forest strategy. Tell us what you value most about the trees in your community. How do you think Council can best protect and enhance our trees for current and future generations? You can provide feedback until 14 February. More information https://oursay.org/whitehorsecitycouncil/ whitehorseurbanforest-1 Accepted items include clothes, shoes, handbags in a clean reusable condition, along with a maximum of three small electrical items per household such as kettles, radios, microwaves, laptops, mobiles and hairdryers. Unaccepted items include toys, furniture, large electrical appliances (such as fridges and
Submit a photo of your favourite tree and tell us why you love that tree. Your photo and story could be used as part of the final urban forest strategy. You could also win one of five $100 vouchers to use at Acorn Nursery in Surrey Hills. Entries can be submitted by emailing trees@whitehorse.vic.gov.au or via https://oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/myfavouritetree
stoves), soiled or torn clothing, mattresses, books, doonas, pillows and household items like photo frames, glassware and kitchenware. A minimum of one bag of clothing is needed per booking. Collections will occur on Tuesday and Thursday between 22 February – 9 March, so book now to avoid missing out. Council still encourages donations to local charities. Many no longer accept electrical items, so call ahead to check items beforehand. More information www.threadcollect.com.au
February 2021
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Sustainability a focus of Whitehorse Centre redevelopment Council brings a strong commitment to environmental sustainability in the delivery of services, projects and procurement decisions. In line with this commitment, the Whitehorse Centre redevelopment includes a variety of environmentally sustainable design elements. The principles of reuse and recycling are being employed throughout all project stages. Features of the new performing arts centre will include: ■ double-glazed windows; ■ efficient thermal performance of the building for internal climate control; ■ rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing; ■ energy-efficient plant and equipment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; ■ use of low carbon and durable building materials; ■ LED lighting; ■ landscape treatments;
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water efficient fixtures and fittings; and recycling and waste minimisation.
The open double-storey car park will feature durable and low-maintenance construction materials, natural light and ventilation, solar and LED night lighting, and waste minimisation during construction. More than 90 per cent of the demolished Whitehorse Centre
has been processed for reuse or recycling, with the remaining material that was unable to be recycled send to an EPA-approved contractor for disposal. ■ Some of the fixtures, fittings, equipment and appliances removed from the centre have been reused in other Council venues. ■ Materials such as concrete, bricks and pavers were sent for recycling into road base.
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Several items of historical significance and community value, including leadlight windows and two time capsules were removed. The leadlight will be included in the new building and the time capsules will be reinstated in the precinct. More information www.whitehorsecentre. com.au/whitehorse-centreredevelopment
Community to benefit from new pavilion at Elgar Park A new pavilion will service the southern ovals at the park in Mont Albert North. Council’s program of renewal of sports pavilions important to support growth in participation in sports. Seasonal tenants Box Hill North Super Kings Cricket Club and Box Hill North Football Club will enjoy the facilities, as well as Mont Albert Cricket Club and Eastern Ultimate Frisbee. The pavilion includes: ■ four female-friendly changerooms; ■ multi-purpose room; ■ kitchen/canteen;
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umpires rooms; first aid rooms; public toilets; and covered viewing area.
The new pavilion accommodates the growth in participation and meets the functional requirements of today’s sporting clubs, in particular to encourage participation of women in local sport. The redevelopment will provide opportunities for other community groups to use the facility when not being used by tenant clubs. The pavilion will be available for use in line with COVID-19 restrictions.
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Caring for the Community Winter warmth raises spirits A strong working relationship with local schools, groups and organisations has always been key to how David Winter approaches his business. The founder, owner and head baker of Bread Street Bakery in Mont Albert has established it as a distinct local business and its communityminded approach has left a positive impact on the surrounding area. The bakery donates bread for sausage sizzles and fundraising events for local schools, sporting clubs and community groups. Bread,
hot cross buns and Christmas fruit mince pies are also given to the Rotary Club of Mont Albert and Surrey Hills. This ethos came to the fore during 2020 when confronted with COVID-19, as the bakery coordinated and donated towards the home delivery of almost 10,000 meals to 300 elderly citizens and struggling international students. Mr Winter was recognised as a Whitehorse Local Hero for this. “Within the community I’ve always had a strong working relationship with schools and sporting clubs,” Mr Winter said. “It is something I thoroughly enjoy. It’s two-way because we can support them.” The bakery also employs local staff and people with a disability. “It is tremendously satisfying see people with disabilities develop some life skills which they are not able to do normally,” he said. “But the most important thing for me is Bread Street, so customers can come in and buy a good loaf of bread in a friendly environment.”
February 2021
Cash boost for community groups and clubs Not-for-profit and community groups and clubs will be able to apply for two grant programs in the next month. The Community Grants Program supports initiatives, activities and programs that contribute to the health and wellbeing of the Whitehorse community. The Community Recovery Grant supports eligible clubs and groups to recover from the challenges of COVID-19. Three information sessions will run during February to help with the application process, as well as two grant writing workshops. All sessions are free and bookings are essential via Council’s website. The grants are open for application from 8 February to 12 March. More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/ community-grants Grants officer 0477 320 873
Melbourne’s new east: What change in one Australian Chinese community says about the nation’s future.
Supporting local is the way to go We have all heard about how important it is to Think Local and Buy Local, especially to help local businesses recover from the COVID pandemic. But have you ever wondered exactly how your shopping decisions count? When you buy local you: ■ Help drive innovation and entrepreneurship ■ Foster community spirit and develop personalised connections ■ Create further job opportunities ■ Circulate wages within the economy ■ Contribute to community prosperity through local purchasing Do you want to do more to support local? Whitehorse Council is hosting a handy map on our website called the ‘Whitehorse Supporting Local’ map. Businesses are invited to submit their relevant information to the map, so
A recent article commissioned by the Scanlon Foundation explores why Box Hill became an attractive destination for Chinese Australians and why it continues to provide a comfortable bridge from their arrival into the broader community. The piece also explores the pathways and complexities to achieving social cohesion in our community.
that the community can easily find out which businesses are open and what they are currently offering the community. More information www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/living-working/ business/think-local-buy-local
In preparing the article, the journanlist spoke to many Box Hill residents, community leaders, businesspeople and Council to get their perspective on why they chose to settle in Box Hill. More information https://scanloninstitute.org.au/ publication/melbournes-new-eastwhat-change-one-australian-chinesecommunity-says-about-nations
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February 2021
Supporting the Whitehorse business community COVID-19 had a major impact on our business community throughout 2020 and Whitehorse City Council will continue to support businesses in their recovery. As part of that effort, a second round of funding to support small to medium enterprises in the Whitehorse business community is being offered by Council, focusing on business adaption, innovation and resilience.
Stream 1: Innovation ($5000 to $10,000)
Stream 2: Support ($1000 to $3000)
To support small businesses with costs associated with substantial innovative projects. Businesses must discuss their project with grant officers. Costs can include equipment that supports innovation, introduction of a new service or product or manufacturing projects. Up to 20 grants are available.
To help businesses continue to operate on the road to recovery. Costs can include PPE supplies, cleaning or sanitising products, professional cleaning services, marketing and branding development.
Applications open Monday 8 February and close 5pm Friday 19 February.
Visit the Box Hill Community Arts Centre website for all the latest news about term one classes and workshops: www.bhcac.com.au Follow BHCAC on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with news of coming classes and events. More information: www.facebook.com/ boxhillcommunityartscentre/ www.instagram.com/bhcac/
Visit Schwerkolt Cottage Schwerkolt Cottage is open weekends and public holidays between 2-5pm. The cottage and museum complex is located in the parklands adjoining Yarran Dheran and is a great spot for picnics and to pass a summer’s day. More information: www.whitehorse.vic.gov. au/things-do/arts-culture/ schwerkolt-cottage
Business grant drop-in sessions with a translator To help with information regarding grants, a Mandarin and Cantonese translator can help businesses at the Q&A sessions with grant officers at Box Hill Mall in Main Street. No bookings are required.
Whitehorse Artspace
Activate Whitehorse
More information: www.smartphonestories.com/ workshops
Businesses are strongly encouraged to attend a virtual grant writing workshop with expert Debby Maziarz. The one-hour workshops will be held at 9.30am and 6.30pm on Wednesday 10 February. To register, go to www.wbiz.com.au
More information www.wbiz.com.au
WHITEHORSE CALENDAR Smartphone Stories Workshops: Free community based smartphone film workshops will be held in Whitehorse at Box Hill Mall during February. Workshops are being held between 6 and 14 February.
Grant writing workshops
The sessions will be held at the red pod in the mall from 10am12pm Tuesday 2 February and Tuesday 16 February.
Businesses can only apply for one stream. Businesses who were successful in receiving funding in the first round are not eligible.
Box Hill Community Arts Centre
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WHITEHORSE CENTRE A fresh start to celebrate the arts. Live theatre and music performances and something for the young and young at heart will return to Whitehorse in 2021. Season brochures will be in the mail shortly or online. A subscription package will ensure a priority booking period before individual tickets go on sale 1 March. More information: www.whitehorsecentre.com.au
Whitehorse Artspace at the Box Hill Town Hall will reopen on Tuesday 23 February. The opening exhibition is titled Bloom and features the work of acclaimed Chinese brush painting artist Echo Wu. Specialising in painting birds and flowers, Wu’s work and technique include references to both traditional and contemporary styles. More information: www.whitehorseartspace.com.au
Image: The Spirit of the Peony 2020, Echo Wu, Chinese brush painting. Courtesy of the artist.
Sustainability events Compost workshop in Mandarin Local Whitehorse residents can get a grip on composting with a special workshop in March. Suitable for the whole family, the session, which will be run in Mandarin and English, will teach people how to compost at home. The event will take place 1pm-2.30pm Thursday 11 March. More information: https://bit.ly/3oXXZ7U
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农历新年
Tết Nguyên Đán
农历新年从2月12日开始，今年 我们将进入牛年。在中国文化 中，牛是勤劳、积极和诚实的 节日。
Tết Nguyên đán bắt đầu từ ngày 12/2 và năm nay chúng ta bước sang năm Tân Sửu. Trong văn hóa Trung Quốc, con trâu được coi là con vật chăm chỉ, sống tích cực và trung thực.
Box Hill 一年一度的 Chinese New Year Festival（春节庆祝 活动）也许因 COVID-19疫 情的限制而被取消了，但在 Whitehorse 各区仍有成千上万 的人及众多不同的团体和组织 会庆祝这一盛事。
Whitehorse City Council（Whitehorse 市议会） 祝愿我们社区中所有庆祝农 历新年的人们新年快乐，繁荣 昌盛。
增加树冠覆盖率
树木为我们的城市带来环境、 社交和健康的益处。它们为 我们的街道遮阴挡阳，吸引鸟 类和昆虫，增加了我们的地 域感，使我们城市各区更为 宜居。
这就是为什么市议会正在制 定一项城市森林战略，旨在 Whitehorse 各地实现30%的 树冠覆盖率。这将有助于改 善环境，改善我们的健康和 福祉，甚至会为我们的房屋增 值，从而造福整个社区。
请告诉我们您对社区中的树木 最重视的方面是什么，以及您 认为市议会如何能为我们的树 木提供最好的保护及强化，为 当代及未来世代造福。 意见反馈截止到2月14日。
如了解更多信息，请浏览网站： https://oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/ whitehorseurbanforest-1
Lễ hội Chinese New Year Festival (Tết Nguyên Đán) hàng năm ở Box Hill có thể đã bị hủy do những hạn chế vì COVID-19, nhưng sự kiện này vẫn sẽ được tổ chức bởi hàng nghìn người và nhiều nhóm, tổ chức khác nhau trên khắp Whitehorse.
Whitehorse City Council (Hội đồng thành phố Whitehorse) xin chúc cho tất cả những người trong cộng đồng của chúng ta, những người đón Tết Nguyên đán, một Năm mới hạnh phúc và thịnh vượng.
Phát triển độ che phủ cây xanh của chúng ta
Cây xanh mang lại lợi ích về môi trường, xã hội và sức khỏe cho thành phố của chúng ta. Cây tạo bóng mát cho đường phố của chúng ta, thu hút các loài chim và côn trùng, tăng thêm cảm giác về nơi ở của chúng ta và làm cho các vùng ngoại ô của chúng ta dễ sống hơn. Đây là lý do tại sao Hội đồng đang phát triển một chiến lược rừng đô thị, nhằm đạt được độ che phủ 30% trên Whitehorse. Điều này sẽ mang lại lợi ích cho cộng đồng bằng cách cải thiện môi trường, sức khỏe và hạnh phúc của chúng ta và thậm chí là giá trị của ngôi nhà của chúng ta. Hãy cho chúng tôi biết quý vị đánh giá cao điều gì nhất về cây cối trong cộng đồng của quý vị và theo quý vị thì làm sao để Hội đồng có thể bảo vệ và phát triển cây xanh của chúng ta một cách tốt nhất cho các thế hệ hiện tại và tương lai. Phản hồi được tiếp nhận cho đến ngày 14 tháng 2. Thông tin thêm:
https://oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/ whitehorseurbanforest-1
Σεληνιακό Νέο Έτος
Nuovo Anno Lunare
Το ετήσιο Chinese New Year Festival (Φεστιβάλ για το Κινεζικό Νέος Έτος) στο Box Hill μπορεί να έχει ακυρωθεί λόγω των περιορισμών για τη νόσο COVID-19, αλλά η εκδήλωση πάλι θα γιορταστεί από χιλιάδες ανθρώπους και πολλές διαφορετικές ομάδες και οργανώσεις σε όλο το Whitehorse. Το Σεληνιακό Νέο Έτος ξεκινάει στις 12 Φεβρουαρίου και φέτος μπαίνουμε στο έτος του Βοδιού. Στην κινεζική κουλτούρα, το βόδι θεωρείται εργατικό, θετικό και ειλικρινές. Το Whitehorse City Council (Δήμος Whitehorse) εύχεται κάθε ευτυχία και ευημερία για το Νέο Έτος σε όλους τους κατοίκους του δήμου μας που γιορτάζουν το Σεληνιακό Νέο Έτος.
Sebbene il Chinese New Year Festival (Festival Annuale del Capodanno Cinese) di Box Hill sia stato annullato a causa delle restrizioni per il COVID-19, l’evento verrà comunque festeggiato da migliaia di persone e da molti diversi gruppi e organizzazioni a Whitehorse. Il Nuovo Anno Lunare inizierà il 12 febbraio e quest’anno entreremo nell’Anno del Bue. Nella cultura cinese, il bue viene considerato un animale diligente, positivo e onesto. Il Whitehorse City Council (Consiglio Comunale) augura un felice e prospero Nuovo Anno a tutti quelli della nostra comunità che celebrano il Nuovo Anno Lunare.
Μεγαλώνουμε τη φυλλωσιά των δέντρων μας
Facciamo crescere le chiome degli alberi
Τα δέντρα ωφελούν το περιβάλλον, την κοινωνία και την υγεία του δήμου μας. Παρέχουν σκιά στους δρόμους μας, προσελκύουν πουλιά και έντομα, προσθέτουν στην αίσθηση ταυτότητας του τόπου μας και κάνουν τα προάστια μας πιο βιώσιμα. Αυτός είναι ο λόγος για τον οποίο ο Δήμος αναπτύσσει μια στρατηγική για τα αστικά δάση με στόχο την επίτευξη 30% κάλυψης με φυλλωσιά των δέντρων σε ολόκληρο το Whitehorse. Αυτό θα ωφελήσει την κοινότητα βελτιώνοντας το περιβάλλον, την υγεία και την ευημερία μας, ακόμη και την αξία των σπιτιών μας. Πέστε μας τι εκτιμάτε περισσότερο για τα δέντρα στην περιοχή σας και πώς νομίζετε ότι ο Δήμος μπορεί να προστατεύσει και να βελτιώσει καλύτερα τα δέντρα μας για τις τρέχουσες και τις μελλοντικές γενιές. Μπορείτε να στείλετε τις απόψεις σας μέχρι τις 14 Φεβρουαρίου. Περισσότερες πληροφορίες: https://oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/ whitehorseurbanforest-1
Gli alberi portano benefici all’ambiente, alla società e alla salute della nostra municipalità. Danno ombra alle strade, attirano uccelli e insetti, contribuiscono al nostro senso di appartenenza e rendono più vivibili i quartieri. Ecco perché il Consiglio comunale sta sviluppando una strategia di foresta urbana allo scopo di ottenere che le chiome degli alberi ricoprano il 30 per centro della superficie di Whitehorse. Questo porterà vantaggi alla comunità con benefici per l’ambiente, la salute, il benessere e anche per il valore delle nostre abitazioni. Diteci quali sono le cose a cui tenete di più negli alberi presenti nella vostra comunità e come pensate che il Consiglio Comunale possa proteggere e incrementare la presenza dei nostri alberi per le generazioni presenti e future. Si accettano commenti fino al 14 febbraio. Per maggiori informazioni: https://oursay.org/ whitehorsecitycouncil/ whitehorseurbanforest-1