CityLife 2017 (Issue 7 - August) by Wodonga Council

WODONGA - ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES

AUGUST, 2017

wodonga.vic.gov.au

ALL THE YOUTH AWARD WINNERS PAGE 3

EVERY FORTNIGHT INTO YOUR INBOX | CITYLIFE E-NEWS

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INSIDE YOUR CITYLIFE FOOTPATHS GET AUGUST, THE TICK 2 2017 ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES

WHAT’S ON IN WODONGA 5-8

SENIOR CELEBRATIONS CITYLIFE 10

OUR COMMUNITY

AUGUST, 2017

Footpath to fresh air CityLife is Wodonga Council’s monthly publication and is delivered around Wodonga. Approximately 17,000 copies are printed each month by Newsprinters, Shepparton. CityLife is delivered by Australia Post. CONTACT US Office: 104 Hovell St, Wodonga Post: PO Box 923, Wodonga, VIC 3689 Phone: (02) 6022 9300 Fax: (02) 6022 9346 Email: info@wodonga.vic.gov.au Website: wodonga.vic.gov.au

/wodongacouncil /wodongacouncil /wodongacouncil /wodongacouncil wod.city/wodenews

OTHER VENUES

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Arts Space Wodonga Cnr Lawrence and Hovell St (Mon to Fri, 10am to 5.30pm, Sat 9am to noon)

Council meetings are open to the public and are usually held on the third Monday of the month. The next meeting is scheduled for August 21. Meetings are held in the council chambers, level two, city offices, 104 Hovell St, Wodonga and commence at 6pm. Agendas can be downloaded from the council’s website the Friday prior to the meeting.

Baranduda Community Centre 3 Sage Court, Baranduda (Mon to Fri, 9am to 3pm) Belgrade Ave Community Centre 12 Belgrade Ave, Wodonga (Mon to Fri, 9am to 3pm) Felltimber Community Centre 189 Melrose Dr, Wodonga (Weekdays, 9am to 3pm) The Cube Wodonga 118 Hovell St, Wodonga Mon to Fri, 10am to 4pm Wodonga Library 126 Hovell St, Wodonga (Mon to Fri, 10am to 5.30pm, Sat 9am to noon) CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Interested in applying for a position with the council? Register your details at wodonga.vic.gov. au/vacancies to receive job alerts about current vacancies. SUSTAINABILITY CityLife is printed on recycled paper, which is made up of 20 to 40 per cent of recycled fibre from old newspapers. It can also be re-added to newsprint production as a recycled fibre after use.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY In the spirit of reconciliation, Wodonga Council acknowledges the traditional owners of this land on which it stands, and pays its respects to their Elders past, present and future, for they hold the memories, the traditions and the culture of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. CITYLIFE ONLINE Read and share CityLife online at wod.city/CurrentCityLife To subscribe to the online version, register at wod.city/wod-enews. CITYWATCH Pay any council bill or report a problem online 24/7 with our mobilefriendly service CityWatch: wod.city/WC-CityWatch

To contact the CityLife editor, please email citylife@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Mobility-impaired people in Wodonga are happy with the latest footpath completed in the city, with a new section now linking the older parts of east Wodonga with the White Box Rise precinct. Roseanne Boyle, a member of the Wodonga Community Access Advisory Group, said the new footpath along Chapple St (between Thomas Mitchell drive and Pearce St) are really fabulous. “This is a big improvement. Prior to this I had to go the long way around to get to White Box, the swimming pool, and my doctor,” Roseanne said. “Now I have much better quicker access, much less traffic, and really good crossings. “My husband and I both have mobility issues, and it’s important for him to get out and do things with me. “The nice part about this path is there’s a lot of trees and you can actually get out in nature and smell the fresh air – and in a safe environment.

and promotes awareness for people with disability.

The Wodonga Community Access Advisory Group was formed early in 2017 with the vision of creating a universally accessible Wodonga where all residents and visitors can access buildings, services and environments.

Walkers, shoppers, parents with prams and dog-owners will be delighted that a missing piece of Wodonga’s footpath network has dropped into place, with new sections of footpath now complete along Chapple St from Thomas Mitchell to Victoria Cross Parade.

The group advises the council on how to improve accessibility across Wodonga, provides leadership and advocacy,

The footpath is the missing links between the older parts of east Wodonga and the White Box Rise precinct including the shops, school,

medical centre, and Wodonga Aquatic Venue and Exercise Space (WAVES). Flagged as a ‘principal pedestrian link’ in the Wodonga Integrated Transport Study, the footpath has been completed in good time to help pedestrians avoid winter’s puddles! The new footpath includes a dog-friendly bridge over Jack in the Box Creek, so will also benefit people walking their dogs as well as shoppers and parents with prams.

Whimsical art New artwork on the piano in The Cube Wodonga Courtyard takes a lighthearted and whimsical approach to tinkling the ivories. ‘Fun Time’ was created by local artist Helen Carter, who invites passers by to have fun while playing and viewing the piano. On top of the piano is a 3D fibreglass piece of a woman and a dog, decorated with acrylic paint and paint pens. When the lid of the piano is closed, you see hands and keys. When the lid’s open, you see cupcakes and tea! Helen was inspired to create this installation from recent travels to Europe and Asia.

CITYLIFE WODONGA

NEWS

AUGUST, 2017

Rolling out Wodonga’s RED carpet winners

YOUNG ACHIEVERS RECOGNISED Two outstanding local youth received Young Achiever Scheme awards in July. Tiana Larkins, 14, has a long list of achievements in athletics.

Sheldon Smith

Jayden Murphy

Thirty young people were recognised for their grit and selflessness at the annual RED Carpet awards.

Olivier Ndayisaba

She has been a registered athlete of Special Olympics Australia since 2011 and competed in athletics in the Special Olympics Australia (Victorian State Games) for the past six years winning an array of medals. Earlier this month, she used her YAS funding to again represent Team Victoria at the Special Olympics Junior National Games on the Gold Coast bringing home two gold, one silver and one bronze.

The awards, now in their ninth year, featured a variety of young people who are making a difference, excelling in their chosen field or putting others first.

Liam Mackay

Ben Warhurst

This year 92 young people were nominated across the nine categories, with 30 selected as finalists because of their outstanding contribution to areas including sport, music and the wider community.

Matt Shipard

The awards are organised and run by a committee of seven young people from local high schools, with the support of Wodonga Council’s youth services and events officers, over an eight-month period.

The second YAS recipient was Eliza Spalding, 14, who is already making her mark with her prowess as a singer. She is a talented young musician who has only been singing and playing guitar for the past 18 months – but who has already achieved an enormous amount. She busks locally and performs at many music festivals and events such as Albury Carols, the Summer Sounds event in Wangaratta, and The Man from Snowy River Festival. The award meant Eliza could attend the Country Music Association of Australia junior academy of country music in Tamworth in early July.

Caitlin Brice

Maddie Anderson

Emily Cariss

AND THE WINNERS ARE ... INDIVIDUAL COMMUNITY SERVICE (Business Wodonga)

ADVOCACY AND ACTION (Rotary Club Wodonga Central)

MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS (PROJECTion Dance)

Winner: Sheldon Smith Highly commended: Mason Wise Finalist: Emily Cariss Finalist: Lily Allan

Winner: Liam Mackay Highly commended: Sheridan Williams Finalist: Joshua Hood Finalist: Zachary Pearce

Winner: Caitlin Brice Highly commended: Hudson Smith Finalist: Alyssa Kupa Finalist: Chelsea Reid

SPORT AND RECREATION VOLUNTEER (YMCA Wodonga)

VISUAL ARTS AND MEDIA (Dutch Media)

YOUNG CARER (GenesisCare Radiation Oncology Albury Wodonga) Winner: Jayden Murphy Finalist: Elenor Tait-Russell Finalist: James Towne ENDURANCE/PERSISTENCE (Aware Industries) Winner: Olivier Ndayisaba Finalist: Swathi Mahendran Finalist: Jayden Murphy Finalist: Zachariah French Finalist: Jessica Bickham

Winner: Ben Warhurst Highly Commended: Tiana Stuart Finalist: Tristan Hedditch Finalist: Samantha Roberts APPRENTICESHIP/TRAINEESHIP (ATEL Employment Services) Winner: Matt Shipard Finalist: Sam McLean Finalist: Max Tittensor

Winner: Maddie Anderson Highly commended: Magdalene Arnold Finalist: Zoe McDonald Finalist: Grace King YOUTH AMBASSADOR (RACV) Winner: Emily Cariss Finalist: Swathi Mahendran, Tristan Hedditch, Joshua Hood, Sam McLean, Alyssa Kupa. #loveWodonga #wodprojects #cityheart

WORKS UPDATE Early works in South St are progressing well as crews complete the water main works and move to the undergrounding the power. There will be minor disruption to traffic and parking adjacent to the work zone. South St, from Smythe to ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES

High streets, will undergo reconstruction from September to December, weather permitting, before works begin in High St from mid-January.

of a roundabout at the intersection with Church St.

The reconstruction of South St will be undertaken in two halves to maintain twoway traffic in South St. It includes the construction

There is expected to be some minor disruption to traffic and a small reduction in car parking during this phase of works.

Works will begin in High St in mid-January for the in-ground services.

The reconstruction of High St will commence in late January with the road to be shut to through traffic during the works period. Pedestrian access will be maintained to businesses at all times. The reconstruction of High St is expected to be

completed by the end of April, weather permitting. A new City Heart website has been launched and a new Wodonga app will be released this month. Keep an eye on the website for details. CHECK OUT THE NEW WEBSITE cityheart.wodonga.vic.gov.au

CITYLIFE

YOUR COUNCIL

AUGUST, 2017

Events drive $742m boost to economy

Students from Wodonga Senior Secondary College created art and poetry for National Homelessness Week

Findings from the 2016 Albury Wodonga Visitor Economy Trends (AWVET) Report have once again shown the significant role of tourism in stimulating the local economy, with the sector injecting an estimated $742 million last year.

Wodonga Council is leading the sustainability charge with two Victorian Government grants to help councils become more environmentally sustainable and to save money across municipal borders. One grant of $70,000 has been allocated to Wodonga Council (in partnership with Indigo Shire) to audit the energy efficiency of councilowned buildings to save greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce operating costs.

This result represents an increase of $129 million since 2015, primarily due to the increase in the average daily expenditure of visitors. Local events are a strong driver of tourism traction, with more than 197,000 people attending AlburyWodonga events in 2016. Of these, 91,549 were day or overnight visitors, generating an estimated $47.47 million in economic activity. Wodonga Council Acting Mayor Cr Danny Lowe said he continued to be encouraged by the results of the report, which showed a steady and consistent increase in tourism activity in the region. “These results are testimony to the attractive tourism destination Albury-Wodonga is, and continues to become. Both cities offer a wide and diverse range of activities, dining options, accommodation and most importantly, a warm and welcoming culture which people are drawn to,” he said.

City leads sustainable partnership

Art depicts the meaning of home Wodonga students have created art and poetry depicting the meaning of a home for National Homelessness Week from August 7 to 14. Wodonga Council and the Hume Region Homelessness Network worked together on the initiative with the works on display at a popup in 3/135 High St (next to OPSM). Hume Region Homelessness Network co-ordinator Jan Armstrong said the partnership will help raise awareness of homelessness in Wodonga through various activities during the week.

“We want to raise awareness of the causes of homelessness, the rates of homelessness locally and where people who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness can get help,” she said. “The project also aims to break down the stereotype and stigma of homelessness and how easy it is for someone to become homeless at any stage in their life.” More than 300 people reported as being homeless in the 2011 census with more than 700 people who were homeless or at risk of becoming homeless

presenting to Beyond Housing for assistance in 2014-2015. The pop-up site will also have information on where to get help if you are homeless or at risk of being homeless. You can purchase a Homelessness Week magnet, with all proceeds going to assisting those experiencing homelessness in the local community. This Week is a national campaign to highlight the work of the homelessness sector, recognise barriers to ending homelessness and importantly, to recognise those experiencing homelessness.

A second grant of $65,000 will fund a feasibility study to define best-practice environmentally sustainable design for residential subdivisions. It aims to achieve more climate resilient neighbourhoods and help landowners to improve the environmental sustainability of homes. Awarded to Wodonga in partnership with seven regional councils (Ballarat, Baw Baw, Greater Bendigo, Greater Geelong, Greater Shepparton, Moorabool and Wangaratta), this grant will find the best approach to improve new homes’ energy and water efficiency. The grants were awarded under the Collaborative Council Sustainability Fund Partnership Program.

MAYOR CR ANNA SPEEDIE

CR KAT BENNETT

CR LIBBY HALL

CR DANNY LOWE

0417 138 938 aspeedie@wodonga.vic.gov.au

0466 731 179 kbennett@wodonga.vic.gov.au

0466 731 180 lhall@wodonga.vic.gov.au

0466 731 181 dlowe@wodonga.vic.gov.au

CR RON MILDREN

CR TIM QUILTY

CR JOHN WATSON

0466 731 182 rmildren@wodonga.vic.gov.au

0466 731 183 tquilty@wodonga.vic.gov.au

0428 325 377 jwatson@wodonga.vic.gov.au

NEXT COUNCIL MEETING The next meeting is scheduled for August 21. Council meetings are open to the public. Meetings are held in the council chambers, level two, city offices, 104 Hovell St, Wodonga and commence at 6pm. Agendas can be downloaded from the council’s website the Friday prior to the meeting. 4

CITYLIFE WODONGA

BONEGILLA MIGRANT EXPERIENCE

Bonegilla Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Sunday Roast

What's on? M T T O S E PT E

Sunday, September 3 11am to 2.30pm Bonegilla Migrant Experience Treat your Dad to a truly unique experience when you join Bonegilla Migrant Experience to celebrate Father's Day. Discover the site with a guided tour where you will experience stories of early European migrants. Then find your place on a communal dining table, just like the former residents did. Sit back and relax with a catered traditional Aussie roast and dessert accompanied by authentic European entertainment. Bookings essential and close at 5pm on Friday, September 1. Bookings: The Cube Wodonga (02) 6022 9311 or thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets Enquiries: Bonegilla Migrant Experience (02) 6020 6912 Cost: Adults $45, children (5 to 16 years) $25, infant (2 to 4 years) $7

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THE CUBE WODONGA

ARTS SPACE WODONGA

RAZ MUSIC PRESENTS

The Grigoryan Brothers

Furious Riding: The Kelly Women Narratives

PART OF BE THE CU A G W O D O N ON S A E S

Wednesday, August 9, 7.30pm Tickets: $32, members $25 Regarded as Australia’s finest guitar duo, the Grigoryan brothers’ passion is to expand their horizons through new arrangements, their own compositions and commissions.

EXHIBITION Friday, August 4 to Saturday, August 26, 2017 Opening Saturday, August 5, 3pm to 5pm

Not just Ned: A performance by Two Friends Productions will consider the adventurous lives of the women around Ned Kelly. Wednesday, August 9, 2017, 11.30am and 6pm. Cost: Students $5 plus one accompanying teacher free. Adults $10. Family of four $25. Bookings: Online at thecubewodonga.com.au, or in person from The Cube Wodonga box office

This performance highlights Slava and Leonard’s diverse skills and deep appreciation of a broad spectrum of musical styles as well as showcasing works from their latest release, a return to classical repertoire. The Cube Wodonga Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9311 or thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets

The Sydney Comedy Festival Roadshow Friday, August 11, 7.30pm Tickets: $30, members $26 The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase will be tearing up the freeways of Australia for the fifth year in a row to bring the crème de la crème of the 2017 Festival right to your doorstep. Boasting a line-up of the best local and international comics and showcasing some of the freshest emerging talents, this jam-packed night of pure entertainment will leave you sore from belly laughs! The Cube Wodonga Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9311 or thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets

Glenn Starr Hit Parade

Author talk: Hear acclaimed author Noelene Allen talk of the true story and significance of a mother’s love and endurance throughout the history of her famous son. Her book Ellen: A Woman of Spirit was the inspirational source for this series. Saturday, August 12, 2pm Artist talks: Hear Janet GoodchildCuffley talk about her historical research and artistic motivation. She will address different paintings across two Saturdays. Saturday, August 19, 2pm and Saturday, August 26, 2pm 1871: Furious Riding in a Public Place (detail), 2016, Janet Goodchild-Cuffley, oil on canvas, 91cm x 122cm.

Soundscapes PART OF BE THE CU A G W O D O N ON S E AS

PART OF BE THE CU A G W O D O N ON S E AS

Thursday, August 24, 10am Tickets: $19, members $15 Includes morning tea after the performance After a sell-out show in 2013 with his Michael Bublé tribute, Wodonga local Glenn Starr returns to The Cube Wodonga with his morning melodies show Hit Parade - a musical tribute to the teenage heart throbs of the 50s and 60s. Glenn covers the hits made famous by Gene Pitney, Bobby Vee, Johnny O’Keefe, John Farnham, Roy Orbison, The Bee Gees, Cliff Richard, Elvis and many more. Glenn can’t wait to get back on the stage that helped kick start his international career. The Cube Wodonga Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9311 or thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets

MELBOURNE CITY BALLET PRESENTS

A Midsummer Night's Dream Friday, September 8, 7.30pm Tickets: $32, members $25 Melbourne City Ballet offers another Shakespearian classic for audiences in 2017 and after the huge success in 2016, its production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream will return. Choreographed by Artistic Director Michael Pappalardo, audiences will see a range of diverse movement, executed by some of Australia’s most talented artists. The Cube Wodonga Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9311 or thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets Workshops: Friday, September 8, 4pm Tickets: Free, bookings essential.

Abi Thompson

Opening: Friday, September 1, 5.30pm Artist talk: With Abi Thompson, Saturday, September 2, 10am Arts Space Wodonga Soundscapes explores the idea of another dimension within the traditional landscape. The works in this exhibition see Abi Thompson break away from working with the landscape in a silent and introspective manner. She sees these works as a return to plein air, where she has used multiple media and immersion in the landscape to alert all the senses. Abi Thompson, Carrickalinga (endangered creatures of Fleurieu Peninsula) (detail), 2016, watercolour and gouache, 900mm x 750mm. Photography: Alan Phillips, photographer and artist.

ARTS SPACE WODONGA FOR KIDS

Just Paint Every Wednesday in Victoria’s school terms 3.30pm to 4.30pm Arts Space Wodonga Drop in after school to paint! Get creative with a variety of painting media and tools. No bookings required. Enquiries: (02) 6022 9600 Ages: Primary and secondary students Cost: $10 per child per session includes materials

Art Buzz Every Friday in Victorian school terms 10.30am to 11.30am Arts Space Wodonga Creative visual art workshops for little hands that relate to the current exhibition. Enquiries: (02) 6022 9600 Ages: Three to five years and their parents/guardians Cost: $5 per family

Hear the Bells Toll WORKSHOP Thursday, September 7 6pm to 7pm, and Saturday, September 16 10am Belvoir Park As part of the celebration of Abi Thompson's exhibition Soundscapes, join Arts Space Wodonga for a workshop and walk around Belvoir Park Lake (Sumsion Gardens). Learn how to play Melbourne Museum's Federation Handbells and take part in an interactive workshop. Meet near Huon St car park. Enquiries: (02) 6022 9600 Ages: Adults and children 10 years and older Cost: Free

WODONGA LIBRARY

Tech Sessions WORKSHOPS Friday, August 4: Introduction to online shopping and banking Friday, August 18: Drop in session 10am to noon Wodonga Library IT classes at the Wodonga Library. Check out the website for topics and go along with the willingness to learn something new. Bookings essential. Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9330 Cost: Free

Young Writers Thursday, August 10, 24 and Thursday, September 7 4pm to 5pm Wodonga Library Want to write? Young Writers invites students of all abilities and interests to take part in some fun writing challenges. No bookings required. Enquiries: (02) 6022 9330 Age: 10 to 15 years Cost: Free

Lego Club Monday, August 14 and 28 4pm to 5pm Wodonga Library Can you build anything out of Lego? Then this club is for you. Join in on the fortnightly challenges to see if you are a master builder. Bookings essential. Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9330 Age: Seven plus Cost: Free

Manga and Anime Club Thursday, August 17 5.30pm to 7.30pm Wodonga Library A monthly meet up for teen fans of Japanese pop-culture. Join other enthusiasts to discuss your favourite shows and books. No bookings required. Enquiries: (02) 6022 9330 Age: High school Cost: $5 for pizza

Storytime

Tum Tum Tinker

Preschool: Mondays, 10am for three to five-year-olds Toddler: Wednesdays, 10am for 18 months to three-year-olds Cuddles: Fridays, 10am for newborns to 18 months In Victorian school terms Wodonga Library

Saturday, September 2 10.30am Wodonga Library Join Mark Penzak and BlueBoat Theatre in a charming performance specially designed for audiences aged two to six years, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bursting with fun stories, puppets, comedy and a very special wheelbarrow. Bookings essential.

Bring your child to the session of your choice to share stories and songs. If your child missed Storytime, or would like to read their favourite book again, catch up on youtube.com/user/storytimeanytime

Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9330 Ages: Two to Six Cost: Free

NEWS

AUGUST, 2017

IN BRIEF

Smoking’s off the menu

BUSINESS SURVEY OPEN

POOL MAINTENANCE

Albury-Wodonga businesses are encouraged to have their say with the ninth annual business survey open from Monday, August 7.

The latest Life Saving Victoria Drowning Report shows an eight per cent increase in the fatal drowning rate of children aged 0-4 years in swimming pools or spas compared with the 10 year average.

The short, online survey will enable businesses to keep abreast of current and future local trends, with this type of targeted data not available from any other public access source.

It is also important to remember the catastrophic impact of a non fatal drowning injury which can include severe brain damage resulting in permanent disability.

Take a moment to complete the survey at alburywodonga.gov.au RATES NOTICES EMAILED The facility is available for the council to issue rate notices as a pdf document to the nominated email address provided by any ratepayer. If you wish to use this method and not have your notice posted, please contact the customer focus team on (02) 6022 9300 to provide the email address.

Smoking is now off the menu with a ban in all outdoor dining areas across Victoria from Tuesday, August 1. Legislation governing tobacco products and smoking continues to contribute to the decline of

smoking rates in Victoria, and to a growing awareness of the harm associated with smoking and second-hand smoke. The Tobacco Amendment Act 2016 amends the Tobacco Act 1987 to

introduce a smoking ban on outdoor dining areas and to regulate e-cigarettes and shisha tobacco in Victoria.

FOR MORE INFORMATION wod.city/2uOJE5g

Award for couple making a difference

AMENDMENT C125 A proposed amendment to the Wodonga Planning Scheme is currently open for comment. Amendment C125 proposes to implement the Wodonga Growth Strategy 2016 and the Guidelines for the Protection of Water Quality. It also proposes to apply an environmental significance overlay to the Lake Hume Northern Section Special Water Supply Catchment Area. Interested people can inspect all documents at the council offices, 104 Hovell St, or online at wod.city/1Seu8F1 If you’re affected by Amendment C125, you can make a submission before Friday, August 11, 2017. ALTERNATE ROUTES Motorists can cut travel time and avoid traffic congestion by using the ring road network. wod.city/ AltRoutes2017

Alan and Judith McKeown were presented with a Wodonga Council Eagle Award recently for their efforts in helping young people with a disability. This amazing couple has become the foster parents of two disabled boys, and have been foster carers for other children in the past. They established a local youth group for people with a disability and continue to organise gatherings every second Friday. In their quest to give people

ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES

with a disability the same opportunities as everyone else, Alan and Judith have volunteered their time to take groups of young adults for weekend trips away and on holidays to the Gold Coast. Through their daughter Alannah, Alan and Judith have been heavily involved in developing a swimming squad at a regional level to compete in the Special Olympics. They also assist with an all abilities netball team at the Wodonga Netball Club.

Alan and Judith are active members of the City Central Church and help run the Albury Wodonga Prayer Breakfast, held in August. In everything they do, Alan and Judith strive to help people reach their full potential, make friends and see that they can do and be more than sometimes society expects of them.

Children most commonly gain access to a pool or spa through lack of fencing, a faulty/non compliant fence or gate or a gate which has been propped open. In more than one-third of drowning cases, pool barriers were found to be faulty. The top 5 issues resulting in the non compliance of pool safety barriers released by the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors include: •

Gates and doors that are no longer self closing;

•

Gates and doors that are no longer self latching;

•

Gates that are propped open;

•

Ground movement; and,

•

Climbable objects on the neighbour’s side of a boundary fence.

Wodonga Building Services strongly urge every pool owner to conduct regular maintenance of their swimming pool barrier. Now is the time to prepare your swimming pool or spa for the swimming season ahead. If you have any doubts as to the compliance of your swimming pool or spa contact us for advice or to arrange for a Swimming Pool Compliance certificate.

In presenting the award, Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie thanked Alan and Judith for making a genuine difference in the Wodonga community. CITYLIFE

NEWS

AUGUST, 2017

Flurry behind scenes of Senior Celebrations There’s a buzz of energy among the committee behind the annual Senior Celebrations festival, with excitement building for the event from Monday, October 2, to Sunday, October 15. In 2017 the festival will run for two weeks to align with the Victorian Seniors Festival (also held each October). Celebrating the rich contributions made by our senior community, the program is already shaping up to feature a rich variety with everything from sports to fancy food, culture and entertainment. Highlights will include music performances, talks, a high tea, come and try sessions, fitness and wellbeing activities, plus much more.

will be 67 activities (including nine new ones) with 37 local businesses participating. Keep an eye out for the full program in the September issue of CityLife. Bookings will open September 11 (not September 1 as per previous years). Victorian Senior card holders will be able to travel on public transport for free between October 8 and October 15 throughout Victoria. Wodonga’s community transport will help transport local residents during the Senior Celebrations festival for the cost of a gold coin.

Over the two weeks there

FOR MORE INFORMATION bit.ly/17g1INE

Watch out for the friendly Senior Celebrations committee members this year in their distinctive blue shirts! Pictured from left: Leanne Jenvey, Wendy Cooksey and Margaret Vlacci.

Save the date this summer Act now to prevent Plan your summer and save the dates now for the popular music series Fridays on my Mind.

gender violence

It will kick off on October 6 then return on November 10, March 2 and April 6. Held in and around The Cube Wodonga Courtyard, the events offer live music, activities for all the family, and great food and drink. So put the dates in your diary now!

Attention teachers and students! Don’t miss an amazing opportunity to be part of a daylong writing workshop with a range of authors, journalists, artists, activists, poets and other creative thinkers.

Follow Fridays on my Mind on Facebook for updates.

Take a tour of the city Join Mayor Cr Anna Speedie on a tour of the city to learn more about current projects and initiatives that are set to shape and enhance the dynamic city of Wodonga in the next 20 to 50 years. The next bus tour is on Tuesday, August 22, from 9.15am to 11.45am starting at the council offices at 104 Hovell St, Wodonga. Bookings are essential (free event with gold coin donation for morning tea) – RSVP by Friday, August 18 via the online booking or phone Customer Focus on (02) 6022 9300. BOOK YOUR SEAT wod.city/bustourAugust

Looking for things for you and the family to do in Wodonga? Sign up for the latest enews from Wodonga Council – each season you’ll get the latest events, activities and happenings during the school term and in the school holidays. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER wod.city/TopThings4Families

Interested in taking action to prevent violence in our community? Expressions of interest are now open from local organisations, community groups and individuals who are interested in holding an event, program or activity as part of the Wodonga 16 Days of Activism Against GenderBased Violence. The global campaign raises awareness about violence against women and its impact on a woman’s physical, psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing. The campaign will be marked with two weeks of events in Wodonga.

The Wodonga campaign aims to provide the opportunity for our local community to learn more about violence against women as well as the underlying causes of men’s violence including; gender inequality, gender power imbalances, stereotypes and biases and negative attitudes towards women and to take action to prevent violence before it occurs in our community. Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Friday, September 29. Contact the Community Planning and Development Coordinator, Anthea Maher on (02) 6022 9343 or amaher@wodonga. vic.gov.au

How can we use language to change the future? Girls Write Up is for anyone aged 12 to 18 who has felt limited by their gender and wants to understand how language can be used to liberate and empower. Join this workshop that teaches empowerment through writing and sharing stories. The program will run from 9.15 am to 3.45 pm on Thursday, October 12, at The Cube Wodonga (in partnership with Wodonga Library). It will feature presenters who have used their writing to define their identities and shape the world around them. Tickets $25 each; or phone (02) 6022 9330 to discuss your eligibility for subsidised tickets. BOOK TICKETS thestellaprize.com.au/girlswriteup

10 CITYLIFE WODONGA

WHAT’S ON

AUGUST, 2017

Join in an Amazing Race! To celebrate International Youth Day, FReeZA is hosting Wodonga’s Amazing Race on Saturday, August 12. Create a team and complete an activity consent form to register today. There is plenty of fun to be had, and prizes to be won. You need to be aged between 14 to 24 years, and the event is free. Work together to move around the Wodonga central business area and complete a series of challenges for your chance to win. A light lunch will also be provided at the end of the race. Arrive at The Cube Wodonga Courtyard at 9.30am to sign in, with the race to start 10am.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

wod.city/FReeZA

GLENN RETURNS TO HOMETOWN STAGE A sell-out performance at The Cube Wodonga in 2013 helped propel Glenn Starr on to the national and international stage where he continues to enjoy huge success.

“I’ve been building a profile through my corporate band and the Bublé show and that has allowed this concept to happen,” he said. “The Bublé show was reasonably successful, but the kind of response I’m getting back now indicates to me that Hit Parade is likely to surpass that.”

So on Thursday, August 24, Starr will return to his hometown with a new musical entertainment experience which is sure to be one of his best.

The one-hour performance will feature a four-piece band and according to Starr, will likely appeal to a wider demographic.

Having performed at the Albury Carols by Candlelight and being a well-known name on the local music scene, it wasn’t until his 2013 tribute to Michael Bublé that Starr came to the attention of outside industry sources. He was recommended to an agency in Sydney which secured him a spot on a P&O cruise ship three years ago. This was just the beginning of his thrilling career of entertaining audiences of all ages on board some of the world’s largest cruise liners. Today Starr has performed on about 18 vessels with his singing taking him to places such as Japan, South Korea, Fiji, New Zealand, Indonesia and various destinations around Australia.

“It’s a fun and interactive show, not just music but getting people involved.

It was on board the Holland America, an American-British owned cruise line, that Starr developed the concept for his new show, Hit Parade. This new interactive show will cover the hits made famous by musical sensations of the 50s and 60s including Gene Pitney, Bobby Vee, Johnny O’Keefe, The Bee Gees and Roy Orbison. “It’s a very different show to

the Bublé show that I did last time,” Starr said. “It features songs I grew up with, that my father used to play to me. They were part of my childhood even though they came out about 20 or 30 years before I was born.” Starr said he first came up with the concept for Hit Parade about 20 years ago, but at the time, the opportunity to perform wasn’t available.

“It’s for people like me, whose parents played them these songs, to those who lived through the era and to people who want to bring their parents along.” Hit Parade will show at The Cube Wodonga at 10am on Thursday, August 24. Tickets are $19, or $15 for The Cube Wodonga members, and can be purchased in person, by phone on (02) 6022 9311 or online. BOOK YOUR TICKETS

thecubewodonga.com.au

WHAT’S ON AT YOUR COMMUNITY CENTRES

BONGO BEATS FOR ADULTS

Thursdays weekly, now to September 21 4.30pm to 5.30pm $10 per adult a Barandud y Centre it Commun

Thursday, September 28, 6pm to 8pm $5 each or $20 per family Baranduda Community Centre

BONGO SESSIONS FOR KIDS Thursdays weekly, now to September 21 4pm to 4.30pm $5 per session

Felltimber Community Centre

For more information phone (02) 6043 4550 or visit facebook.com/Felltimbercc

Prepare for the big game with a family barbeque. Wear your favourite fan gear, whatever team/ sport you follow. Fun activities for all ages. For more information phone (02) 6020 8643 or visit facebook.com/Barandudacc

KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH YOUR COMMUNITY CENTRES WITH THEIR E-NEWS ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES

wod.city/wod-enews CITYLIFE 11

HAPPY

The Cube Wodonga

BIRTHDAY

THE CUBE WODONGA IS TURNING 5!

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Help us celebrate our 5th birthday by becoming a member – you’ll get to meet the artists, and tour behind the scenes. It costs $44 a year and includes 25 per cent discount on all performances, first option for reserved seating, and invitations to VIP functions including each season launches. Plus there’s special offers if you buy tickets to all the kids’ shows or all Morning Melodies performances.

THE GRIGORYAN BROTHERS Wednesday, August 9

You’ll even get free coffee and cake on your birthday!

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Friday, September 8

To see the full list of benefits for members, visit thecubewodonga.com.au

EXPOSING EDITH Saturday, September 16

To celebrate our 5th birthday, we are offering a great deal to those who become a member this month. If you purchase a Cube membership in August, you will receive two complimentary tickets to one Cube Season performance of your choice*. *Cube Season shows only. Tickets subject to availability. Offer valid until August 2018.

THE SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL SHOWCASE Friday, August 11 GLENN STARR - HIT PARADE Thursday, August 24 CAFE` CULTURE SERIES Sunday, September 10 and November 19

LOVELY LADY LUMP Tuesday, October 3 ROOM ON THE BROOM Friday, October 27 SOQ COLLECTIVE Saturday, October 28 THE SNOW QUEEN Friday, November 3 and Saturday, November 4 BORDERVILLE 2017 Thursday, December 14, Friday, December 15, Saturday, December 16

The Cube Wodonga / Enquiries and bookings: (02) 6022 9311 / thecubewodonga.com.au