Citylife May 2014 by Wodonga Council

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wodonga.vic.gov.au

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citylife

2014 Budget edition

'Council delivering on promises of a decade'

Budget for the future AS Wodonga’s population continues a strong growth trend, Wodonga Council has put the city’s future firmly at the forefront of the 20142015 Wodonga Council draft budget. For the first time, the budget includes a 10-year capital plan designed as a financial blueprint for the council’s long-term vision for the city. This year there will be an increase in rates of 4.75%, in line with forecasts from previous years, allowing the council to maintain

existing services levels, fund initiatives and continue to fund the renewal of the city’s infrastructure. Many of the proposed initiatives centre on our people and the city’s growth, including strategies investigating greener policies, ageing populations, community safety and sporting hubs. Capitals works include the development of a new Urban Square at Junction Place, the final stage of the James Scott Memorial Skate Park, sporting club works and

continuing road works in the CBA. Wodonga mayor Cr Rodney Wangman said the city was experiencing one of the most significant periods of change in its history. It follows the revitalisation works in the CBA, the opening of WAVES, Logic, the Fatigue Management Centre and the continued public and private investment in the city. “It is a hard decision to increase rates but they are critical to ensure a continued quality and level of service

necessitated by fast-growing population,” Cr Wangman said. “It is essential we plan, leverage, sustain and promote that growth to be able to respond to the opportunities that will arise from this growth. “We are delivering on the promises of a decade with more than $700m being spent on the future development of our city. “It’s important as a council we have the strategies and plans for this to continue to occur.

“Once the Manns development is complete, there will still be more than 17ha of land available in our city which is equivalent to five more Manns Central developments.” The council has named the city heart revitalisation and its focus on economic development, further development at Logic, the development of the Bonegilla Migrant Experience, the Baranduda Fields Sporting Precinct and the Leneva growth corridor as priorities for the council.

May, 2014 1

2014 Budget edition

Time of great change

Building and Assets Debt Servicing

$25.00 $3.00

Waste management and Recycling

$9.40

Parks and Play

$9.20

Administration and Governance

$12.10

Arts and Culture

$7.10

Community Development

$10.90

Health, Safety and Well-being

$6.60

Roads and Infrastructure

$6.00

Planning

$3.70

Information and Communication

$3.50

Economic Development

$2.00

Tourism

$1.50

Tourism l Visitor information l Bonegilla Migrant Experience l Gateway Village

Economic development l Investment attraction

Information & Communications l Customer service l Communications & Marketing

Planning l Statutory planning l Strategic planning

$1.50 $2.00

services or capital is not required, or in the case of additional expenditure, again support the finding of additional funds needed. While this budget does forecast the next 12 months, it goes further with a 10-year long-term capital term necessary to finish, as I began, the promises made to our community over the past decade. — Cr Rodney Wangman Wodonga mayor

Arts and Culture l Wodonga Library l The Cube Wodonga l Arts Space Wodonga l Events

Each Council Plan sets out what may be needed without reliance on government funding windfalls or council land sales. The council's budget is now out for community consultation. I encourage the community to reflect on the rationale of each item and if there are alternatives to be suggested, to provide feedback to council with balance to any cost savings and evidence that such

with a capital works program of $15m, including $5.1m in the CBD, $4.1m in asset renewal and more than $5m across 50 other capital projects. There are no new borrowings in this budget. There is the deferment of previously proposed $3m borrowings from our last budget to this one due to our ability to manage our finances and additional income which makes new loans unnecessary.

$6.00

l An $11m performing arts facility in The Cube Wodonga; l An $11m aquatic centre in WAVES; l Improved High St parking; l Watson and Smythe streets newly opened; and, l Lawrence and Havelock streets redeveloped. We are also presently delivering the redevelopment of High St and Elgin Boulevard. This budget ensures this momentum will continue

Health, Safety and Well-being l Maternal health l Healthy Together l Health inspections l Immunisations

Building and Assets l Asset management l Plant and fleet operations l Maintenance l Depreciation

$3.5

Roads and infrastructure l Roads maintanence

PROMISES of a rail line removal, a redesigned and renewed CBD, new community space, events, programs and investment are here and are happening now. Councillors and the council's efforts to change our city have cleared a hurdle. This budget, and the ones that are to follow in the next wo years, deliver the momentum of city change. No other community has had to bear such a renewal of its CBD in Australia. Balanced against that objective is the fact we are the fastest-growing regional city in Victoria, we have strong investment from expanding businesses and new ones arriving. Our enviable lifestyle, protected environment, family-focussed community is proactive, engaged and energetic. This budget does not deviate from our 2033 vision for Wodonga, that includes our strong values and clear expectations. The budget stays true to our four-year Council Plan that was presented to our community 12 months ago. The budget confirms our rates will remain in line with that plan, increasing by 4.75% this year, to maintain existing service levels, fund initiatives and continue the renewal of city infrastructure. That recent city infrastructure now sees us with:

For every $100 the council spends:

Debt Servicing

$25.00

$6.60

$3.00

$7.10

$12.10

$9.20

Initiatives in the 2014 budget l Planning for growth. We will undertake the following studies: n Wodonga Growth Strategy $222.5k (Victorian Government funded)

l Walking Around Wodonga app piloted

l Positive Ageing strategy developed

n Baranduda Fields planning $50k

l Community Safety strategy developed

n Civic precinct planning $50k

l Sporting Hubs strategy developed

n Planning Scheme review $ 20k

l Environment strategy developed

n Central Business Area $60k

l Water and energy minimisation and re-use plan developed

n Recreation Strategy $70k n Off-road bike paths study $10k l Continued revitalisation of the city’s heart including realignment of Elgin Boulevard and completion of South/Hovell reconstruction (Mann’s)

Waste management & Recycling l Waste Transfer Station l Kerbside collection l Waste management

l Plan developed to reduce reliance on carbon-emitting fuel and energy l Digital Enterprise Program (funded) l Implement Economic Development strategy

l Night-time economy strategy developed

l Implement digital economy strategy

l Greening Wodonga Strategy developed

l Develop industrial land supply strategy

l Organics waste collection systems for industry/commerce developed

l Develop a “Street life/Main Street” strategy

$9.40

Parks and play l Parks and gardens l Reserves l Environmental land

l Models for libraries of the future developed

Strategies for sporting hubs and recreation and a Walking Around Wodonga app are some of the iniatives in the draft 2014-2015 budget.

Draft 2014-2015 Budget

$10.90

Administration & Governance l Finance and IT l Governance l Human resources

Community Development l Community Centres l Preschools l Youth Services l Volunteer services

citylife

wodonga.vic.gov.au

Funds for horse rider

Celebrating diversity

Hounds on tour

Funds boost for preschool Minister announces $350,000 for works JAMIESON Court Preschool has received $350,000 in funding for an extension to the centre. Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development Wendy Lovell and Member for Benambra Bill Tilley joined families at Jamieson Court Preschool to announce the grant for this service, alongside a $75,000 grant for the Berringa Integrated Community Services Hub in Bellbridge. Ms Lovell said more children in Wodonga West would benefit from enhanced access to high-quality early years services. “These grants will ensure local children’s centres can be extended and upgraded to meet demand for quality service and will ensure children have the very best education and care in the years before school.” Wodonga Council will also be contributing $116,000 towards the extension under its draft budget. The extension will support Maternal Child Health services, psychology and allied health visits with the inclusion of consultation rooms as well as a meeting room for parents.

Mars Petcare's Anthony Maw and Howard Masters at the tree planting earlier this month.

Planting healthy ideas in our community MORE than 100 Mars Petcare employees planted about 4000 trees in an afternoon in a major boost for Parklands Albury Wodonga's work on the proposed Murray River Adventure Trail. It comes after the March launch of Healthy Together Wodonga's Workplaces in Open Spaces prospectus. The community initiative is a

partnership with Parklands Albury Wodonga, Wodonga Urban Landcare Network, Wodonga Council, Healthy Together Wodonga and the Be Active initiative. It encourages corporate volunteering and sponsorship of open spaces, helps employees get active and connect with the community.

The project was launched by parliamentary secretary for health Georgie Crozier on Gateway Island, at a site where Hume Building Society employees and volunteers have worked together to create a bush park. Other recent projects include the What’s in Your Patch? Forum, hosted by Healthy Together

Wodonga, along with Gateway Community Health and Alpine Community Health, which focused on school garden stories with guest speakers and participants sharing tips and ideas about incorporating kitchen gardens in primary schools. In April, Healthy Together Wodonga co-ordinated the Premier’s Active April locally with more

than 500 residents registered. Healthy Together Wodonga aims to improve people’s lives where they live, learn, work and play through recognising and strengthening the role of local community leadership in preventive health activities. More information can be found at wodonga.vic.gov.au/ healthytogether

Young readers benefit from sale

Alison Fothergill and Bette Cawood at the book sale.

YOUNG bookworms will benefit from the latest donation from the Friends of Wodonga Library group. New shelving trolleys and new books for the junior section will be purchased after

the group’s successful book sale in March. The autumn sale was attended by more than 300 people. The Friends of Wodonga Library is a group of library users who are interested in promoting and

supporting the library and its links with the community. They volunteer their time, fundraise for library programs and equipment and attend bi-monthly meetings. They hold several book sales of donated

or discarded books at the library throughout the year. For information on how to join the group and participate in volunteering programs, please email library@ wodonga.vic.gov.au

May, 2014 3

citylife wodonga.vic.gov.au

Wodonga Council Office: 104 Hovell St, Wodonga, Post: PO Box 923, Wodonga, VIC 3689 Phone: (02) 6022 9300 Fax: (02) 6022 9346 Website: wodonga.vic.gov.au CityLife is Wodonga Council’s monthly publication and is delivered around Wodonga from the first Monday of the month. Approximately 14,300 copies are printed each month by Border Mail Printing, Wodonga. 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.

Contact your councillors

Wodonga Mayor Rod Wangman 0400 956 253

rwangman@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr Mark Byatt 0408 285 930 mbyatt@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr Michael Fraser 0428 321 764

mfraser@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr Eric Kerr 0428 438 129

ekerr@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr Lisa Mahood 0409 562 903

lmahood@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr Anna Speedie 0417 138 938

aspeedie@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Cr John Watson 0428 325 377

jwatson@wodonga.vic.gov.au

Council meetings are open to the public and are usually held on the third Monday of the month. The next upcoming meeting is scheduled for June 23. 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

Mourn the passing of the 'barbie'

BRING back the barbie, the kick-to-kick and the cuddle. Spontaneous entertainment such as the backyard barbecue and informal sporting events like street cricket and kick-to-kick were the norm in the last century, but now I see them replaced by more formal events such as big sporting fixtures, concerts and fireworks displays, which require little to no participation. This trend is being coupled with increased isolation due to home theatres, higher fences and a genuine fear of communicating, due to the increased aggression in our society. Today, I would like to suggest our increased wealth has not given us an equal higher level of well-being and it appears that over the past 50 years we have witnessed a deterioration in our personal health and social safety. The first issue that has been identified, and that appears to be changing people’s behaviour, is the stress on mothers. This possibly, is leading to children with an associated increased incidence of problems such as attention deficit disorder, anxiety, depression and susceptibility to illness. As the stress rises due to these factors, more children may grow up with more antisocial characteristics and so the problem grows at an exponential rate. Why worry? Because if the number of people with antisocial behaviour becomes the majority, then it become the norm.

The second issue (the kick-to-kick experiences) is our removal from nature. It has been shown our link to poorer cognisance skills and decreased sensitivities is what could be called "nature’s functioning". As we spend more time gazing at a screen, our ability to understand the world around us is diminishing. The result? Seeking joy through virtual reality becomes mistaken for reality. Previously, joy was a long journey of surprises and disappointments. As Herman Hesse wrote: “It is the journey to the end that is the purpose of life”. What is more joyful? To work, to run, to worry and then have sex aided by Viagra? Or to relax, to discover and to enjoy what humans have enjoyed since Adam and Eve? If surveys are to be believed, Australians spend less than three minutes a day being intimate. Today, about 25 per cent of crimes are committed while the perpetrator is under the influence of drugs. About 1 per cent of our population has some sort of diagnosable brain injury because of trauma or drug use and about 15 to 20 per cent of the population reported experiencing a mental

illness in the last year. In Australia, about 25 per cent of the adult population is obese often leading to diabetes and or heart disease. In rough numbers, about half the population in the last year experienced some mental or physical illness or had to confront a crime. It is difficult to find the exact statistics but those available suggest that since 1965, the total incidence of personal trauma has increased by about a factor of three per capita. So in the past 50 years, a tenfold improved economy has bought us a threefold increase per capita in crime, mental illness and physical discomfort. What about the next 50 years? As humans developed technology they lowered risk by dominating and simplifying situations. Almost by accident, we have also removed the constraints that determined our genetic selection. For instance, in the past there was no danger of over-eating as there was simply not enough food. There was no danger of being confronted with too much data, our senses limited the intake. And people needed each other for survival, so they were more nurturing. I believe we might soon

arrive in a situation where nature has been reduced to a garden, where traditional reference points of what is right and wrong have been removed, where our minds are constantly stimulated and where everything is being simplified to what we can understand and dominate. So what can we do? We can create spaces and places that encourage human "herding" by giving opportunities for street celebrations, reduce fences and barriers, increase conversations and community events. To put it simply, create spaces and places "where everyone knows your name", you get a smile, a wave or a “g’day mate”. I’m not longing for a return to the past, far from it, but it is a hope that we will, looking in hindsight at the rapid changes over the past 50 years, see that an increasingly faster society has inherent problems and they lie ahead for us into the next 50 years. What can a council try and do in these circumstances? We need to design our communities so neighbours are closer, through opportunities to have the street or backyard barbecues, that we play kick-to-kick with our children and the neighbours’ children and that we take the time to cuddle. Some points contained in this reflection by Cr Wangman are acknowledged from other researchers, which due to space requirements are not referenced.

Dates for preschool open days WODONGA Council preschools will be holding open days to help parents make decisions on where to send their children to preschool. The open days provide an opportunity to see the preschool programs, view the facilities and have a chat to staff before making a final decision.

Parents and children are welcome to visit the centres on the open days between 9.30am and 11.30am. Enrolment application forms are now available on the council's website for 2015. Please read the enrolment procedural guidelines due to changes in the procedures.

Enrolment application forms can also be obtained from the council offices, Maternal Child and Health nurses and community centres. Phone arly years on (02) 6022 9300. OPEN DAYS: Tuesday , June 10: Felltimber Preschool;

Southern Rise Children’s Centre Thursdays June 12: Baranduda Preschool; Belgrade Ave Preschool; Southern Rise Children’s Centre. Friday, June 13: Jamieson Crt Preschool; Stanley St Preschool; Southern Rise Children’s Centre

Girl Guides unit marks 70 years in Wodonga WODONGA Girl Guides will be marking 70 years in the community in August are hoping to contact as many past members as possible to join the celebrations. “We think this milestone is worth celebrating and would like to make sure we recognize the enormous efforts of those that have been part of the last 70 years,” Andrea Weppner, district manager for Wodonga Girl Guides said. “We are encouraging anyone who knows someone who was involved in Guides in Wodonga to get in touch with us. We want them to be involved in our official celebrations.” Wodonga Girl Guides has tracked down Mrs Margaret Eklund, one of the original Wodonga leaders when Guides formed in 1944. Mrs Eklund, who now lives in Melbourne, has already made sure that she will be in Wodonga for the celebrations in August. ”Many girls and those involved with Girl Guides have changed their name or moved out of town, so it is incredibly difficult getting in touch with them”, Mrs Weppner said. Girl Guides are still very active in the Wodonga Community. Recently, the girls and their leaders made and presented posies to the new Australian citizens at the Australian Day celebrations, participated in Clean up Australia Day, and took take part in the ANZAC Day remembrance activities, as well as being involved in a range of other service and development activities. Contact Mrs Weppner at aweppner@guidesvic.org.au or phone 0478 486 610.

Council support flows for FloodSafe Week WODONGA Council is proudly supporting Victoria State Emergency Service’s (SES) FloodSafe Week awareness campaign. Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) is using FloodSafe Week, from May 19 t o 25, to warn everyone floodwater is dangerous, disgusting and should never be entered. Driving through floodwater is the biggest killer of adults in floods. It isn’t just drowning that kills — floodwater also contains dangers that can harm children if they play in it.

Anyone who comes into contact with floodwater may be exposed to E.Coli infection, diarrhoea, hepatitis, infections and dermatitis to name a few. Floodwater can also wash away roads or bridges, creating slips and sinkholes, so even seemingly shallow water across a familiar road can pose danger. FloodSafe Week is

an annual initiative of Victoria SES. SES volunteers will hold a range of events throughout the week to discuss flood preparedness. Wodonga Council’s emergency management coordinator said FloodSafe Week raised awareness of this important issue. “We encourage everyone to use

FloodSafe Week as an opportunity to meet their local SES volunteers and learn how they can be prepared for the threat of flood,” he said. “A little preparation goes a long way and we all need to take responsibility for our safety and learn the local flood risks.” This year’s safety focus is shining a light into the murky and dangerous contents of floodwater. “Entering floodwater is extremely dangerous. Drivers, parents and children need to be aware of what’s in

that water and ensure they never enter floodwater,” Mr Leddy said. “Staying out of floodwater is an important part of keeping you and your family safe. "There are other ways you can prepare yourself, such as having a home emergency kit, an emergency plan and knowing where to find information in an emergency.” For FloodSafe Week events, or for more information visit ses.vic.gov.au or facebook.com/ vicses

Funds boost for top rider THIS month’s YASS recipient is equestrienne Alice Grimshaw. Alice joined the Wodonga and Districts Pony Club at the age of 5. She has represented Wodonga, the North East and Victoria at state and national events in showjumping and eventing. Alice says eventing is her favourite discipline. It involves dressage,

showjumping and cross-country. She was a finalist in the Victorian Young Amabassador of the year in eventing last year and was sixth in the amateur rider of the year in Victoria. The YASS funding helped Alice in representing Wodonga and the North East zone at the Pony Club Association of Victoria Eventing Championships.

Need some help? Just ask a local Committee set for Seniors Celebrations A NEW committee is in place for this year’s Seniors Celebrations in October. Carol Keep, representing the Senior Citizens Club, Jill Melgaard, Leanne Jenvey, Wendy Cooksey representing the historical society, Shirley Stafford, Tom Rilen and

Gary Martin from Westmont will be working with the council on the month-long celebrations which includes entertainment and activities. The community is invited to feed their ideas to the committee or contact the council on (02) 6022 9300.

THE old-fashioned approach of asking a local where to find the best people, places and products is the basis of a new website developed in Wodonga. The Let’s Live Local site allows users from all over Australia to narrow their search to their community by entering their postcode and interest area.

They can enter details about their own interests, skills and experience for others to see and use. IT consultant Garry Taylor said Let’s Live Local, or 3L, gives users the opportunity to volunteer, link with interest groups, find service providers and connect with their community. “Not too long ago,

if you were looking for the best local tradie, accountant, club to join or an opportunity to volunteer, the easiest and most reliable way to find out was walk up the main street and ask one of the locals,” he said. “3L emulates this important role in a time when many of our face-toface connections

are being lost, particularly with increased use of technology.” The idea for 3L was a joint effort between Mr Taylor and his brother-inlaw, Mike Hansen, who was concerned about his job security and finding a job at an older age. They developed a website Oldies But Goodies last

year, which links older people with the community, and the idea has since grown to Let’s Live Local which aims to engage residents of all ages. Registration with 3L is free, with locals encouraged to provide details about what they can offer the community. It can be found at letslivelocal.com.au

Expressions of interest -

Senior Celebrations Committee 2014 Get involved in the City of Wodonga’s Senior Celebrations to be held throughout the month of October, 2014.

ABOVE: The Cultural Diversity Week Committee for 2014. TOP RIGHT: Traditional Owner Ollie Patten, Albury Mayor Cr Kevin Mack, Wodonga Mayor Cr Rodney Wangman. BELOW RIGHT: Henna body art was part of the day.

The council is currently seeking expressions of interest from local businesses or community groups who are interested in hosting an activity as part of the program of events for Senior Celebrations.

Cities celebrate cultural diversity

Criteria • Events/activities that are aimed at ages 50 years and over; and • Opportunities available such as open days, come and try activities, events and tours. You may obtain a expression of interest form: In person: 104 Hovell St, Wodonga Online: wodonga.vic.gov.au/snrcelebrations Phone: Melissa Nagle on (02) 6022 9281 Email: mnagle@wodonga.vic.gov.au Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Friday, June 6, 2014. 6

ABOUT 300 residents celebrated Harmony Day, enjoying cultural dance, music, food and activities at The Cube Wodonga in March. The free event, which was run by participants of the Leading the Way project (phase II) and supported by Wodonga Council and Wodonga Senior Secondary College, was attended by a diverse range of people from ethnic backgrounds including Bhutanese, Sudanese, Thai, Mauritian, Congolese, Irish, Kenyan and Chinese. Aboriginal Elder Mr Ollie Patten opened the event with an official “welcome to country” and song and Wodonga Mayor Cr Rodney Wangman and Albury Mayor Cr Kevin Mack spoke about how residents from diverse backgrounds equally belong and enrich our cities.

The crowd enjoyed cultural performances including Bhutanese dance, Bollywood style singing and dancing, hip-hop, Irish dance, and contemporary tunes by a Mauritian duo. Other activities included a colourful Indian Rangoli chalk art display, henna body art, face painting, badge making, and art activities. Bhutanese, Indian and Thai food was provided by local community groups. The council is now seeking expressions of interest from local residents who would like to join the Albury-Wodonga Ethnic Communities Council. Interested persons should contact the councils team leader youth services, Rachel Habgood on (02) 60 229 701 or by email rhabgood@wodonga. vic.gov.au

REFUGEE WEEK 2014 “Restoring Hope”

Family Fun Day celebrating Refugee Week including: • Free BBQ and delicious traditional foods; and • Local performers and activities. When: Saturday, June 14, 2014 Where: The Cube Wodonga, Hovell St, Wodonga Time: 11.30am to 2.30pm Proudly supported by

Health club gets makeover WODONGA Sports & Leisure Centre is continuing a push to encourage the local community to improve their health and fitness in 2014 with the recent redevelopment of their health club. The health club has been transformed with a complete new rubber sports

flooring, the equipment layout redesigned for better function with new equipment added, making it even more accessible to the local community. “The fitness industry is ever changing, it’s important our facilities develop and change to provide the best opportunities for the

community to exercise with the latest training trends, equipment and most importantly space!” YMCA fitness guru Matt Frost said. “One of our biggest advantages is our size. With many small franchise facilities’ opening, the importance of sufficient space to exercise is

a big contributor to member participation and experience.” The redevelopment will support varying training forms, including: personal training, strength, flexibility, core training and the latest functional training methods and will complement the vast range of programs on

offer to support a healthier community. The centre is also making it easier to access Wodonga’s premier community health and fitness facility. Take out a membership at the centre before June 2 and pay $30 for 30 days to kick start your positive lifestyle change.

Band goes from strength to strength after win The Hounds Homebound, has toured Victoria since three members took out the Young Achiever Support Scheme (YASS) award last year. Vinny Russell, Brianna Cox and Josh Holt used the funds to compete, and win, the 2013 FReeZA Push Start Battle of the Bands grand final. Together with the band’s three other members, they played in front of thousands at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.

The Hounds Homebound have played throughout Victoria in the past 12 months.

Time to enrol at TAFE WODONGA TAFE is home to one of the best performing regional TAFEs in Australia, offering more than 290 nationally accredited courses and plenty of short ‘tasters’. Last year our local TAFE taught more than 15,000 students. Options can be as diverse as a day spent painting or defensive driving, through to subjects that require a longer time commitment, like a certificate in Interactive Digital Media

or a Bachelor degree in Applied Management. If you’re thinking of a change of career, consolidating your skills, developing industry contacts or using TAFE as a pathway to university, perhaps now’s a good time to put thought into action. From May to July, Wodonga is accepting enrolments for more than 60 courses that lead to qualifications and dozens of short courses, some of which are listed below.

These mid-year intakes are for starting dates in May, June and July. Study options vary for these courses between classroom, electronic, or a combination of the two. Some courses require a couple of days a week on campus, others one day a month, or none at all. To enrol, call 1300 MY TAFE (1300 69 8233), email info@wodongatafe.edu.au, visit wodongatafe.edu.au or pop into the McKoy St campus.

Big Brother is watching The BuTTer FacTory TheaTre Wodonga 02

6021 7433 hothousetheatre.com.au

SAMPLE OF COURSES AVAILABLE l Diploma of Nursing l Bridging to the Diploma of Nursing l Certificate IV in Leisure and Health l Certificate III in Aged Care l Certificate III in Children’s Services l Certificate III in HACC l Diploma of Interior Decoration l Certificate III in Printing and Graphic Arts l Certificate II in Hairdressing l Certificate III in Hairdressing – (Apprentices only) l Advanced Diploma of Management l Certificate III in Business Administration l Certificate III in Travel & Tourism

Vinny said the win enabled the band to meet people in the music industry. “We absolutely love being able to share our music with new people, and travel to new places doing what we love," he said. “The (YASS) award was a major help and from there we have been able to grow from strength to strength, having fun doing what we love to do along the way.”

Wodonga Building Services Don’t move in without an occupancy permit The Victorian Building Authority warns home owners they cannot move into a new home without an occupancy permit. An occupancy permit is important as it says that your home is “suitable to occupy” from a safety point of view. Meaning items that can affect safety are in place, such as water, gas supply, electrical wiring for the smoke alarms, handrails and balustrades. An occupancy permit can only be issued by the building surveyor involved with your building or renovation work. Accordingly, the VBA recommends home and apartment owners check their building permit, which will state whether the work requires an occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection before they move in. The building surveyor responsible for your job can help or you can seek legal advice. For more information, visit vba.vic.gov.au

Grand plans for future for Felltimber precinct THE master plan for the Felltimber Community Precinct was formally received at the February 2014 council meeting. The council will now meet with the relevant ministers and government officials seeking funding to implement the plan. The council had a great response to the consultation undertaken for the redevelopment of the precinct and incorporated many of the suggestions into the final plan. The plan provides passive recreational activity and opportunities for all people regardless of age, gender, ability, ethnicity or economic background; to be physically active by providing safe, accessible and enjoyable spaces for everyone to live, walk, bike; and, be active as part of their daily routine. It also encourages more human interaction by fostering great public spaces and facilities where people can rest, relax and play. The highlights include: l Pocket neighbourhood housing; l Improvement to lake edges; l Welcoming and safe community gathering spaces;

H o l

Community facility

l An extension to the existing path network; l An accessible playground; l Improved appearance of the pedestrian underpass; l Opportunities for physical activity; l Consistent and high-

quality park furniture and facilities; l Improved streetscape interfaces with additional tree planting; l Improved traffic management; l Improved aesthetic and safety of drainage outlets;

Wodonga Building Services Vendors and purchasers To facilitate the smooth sale or purchase of a property, there are a few areas to be considered in relation to building permits. If you purchase a property that has illegal building works, you as the current owner of the property are liable for those works. As a preventative measure prior to purchase, it is recommended your real estate agent ask for permission from the owners to access the building file at the council to ascertain that all works on the property have a building permit and an accompanying final certificate or occupancy permit. If you are selling a property, any illegal building works on your property will generally be discovered at contract stage and you will be required to submit an application for illegal works. This application has a penalty built into the application fee of 150 per cent. A note about swimming pools and spas: If you are buying a property with a swimming pool or spa, ask for a swimming pool certificate/compliance inspection to ensure the safety barriers comply with the regulations.

l A community native/ sensory garden; l Existing vegetation management; l Public art; l Entry road redevelopment; and, l Miscellaneous items including rubbish bins,

drinking fountains, bicycle racks, lighting and three phase power. For further information, contact the council on (02) 6022 9300 or go to the Latest Projects section on our website at wodonga.vic.gov.au

New committee welcomed FELLTIMBER Community Centre has a new advisory committee elected at the annual meeting in March. The 2014 committee will be led by Anastasia Thompson with Barbara Stieber as vice-chairwoman. Marg Crisp will be the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s secretary with Rob Marks, Jacinta Hollman, Lok Guragai, Fran Meijer, Katrina Dawes, Ian Elston and Ada Musuabo making up the committee. The annual meeting also heard from guest speaker. Mr Peter Hollman, who spoke about his experiences of volunteering and

Felltimber Community Centre Advisory Committee, T Front row. Barbara Stieber (vice chairperson) Anastasia i Thompson (chairperson) Rob Marks, Jacinta Hollman Back row; Lok Guragai, Marg Crisp (secretary/minute taker) Fran 2 a Meijer, Katrina Dawes and Ian Elston. Absent: Ada Musuabo. o his involvement in community, and encouraged the Ulysses annual has a direct link to to attend as h event that will be Wodonga Council. observers. o held in Wodonga The committee For more b next year. meets on the information, phone c The committee second Monday the centre on (02) i represents of the month. 6043 4550 or p Felltimber and Community email cfelltimber@ a the surrounding members are wodonga.vic.gov.au i

Danielle with her Summer Read prize pack.

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WODONGA Library user Danielle was one of the lucky state winners in the Summer Read program. Danielle won a bumper book pack featuring 10 new titles for her participation in the summer reading program at the Wodonga Library this year. Each year, the State Library of Victoria runs the program that celebrates Victoria as a centre for writing, books and readers. Focusing on books by Victorian authors, set in Victoria or about Victorians, the Summer Read invites people to enjoy a great read and share their favourites.

Wodonga Sports & Leisure Centre

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Summer Read local winner

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Check out our redeveloped Health Club and renovate your lifestyle ! Hurry offer ends 2nd June 2014* *Full terms and conditions www.wodonga.ymca.org.au

Wodonga Sports & Leisure Centre Hedgerow Crt Wodonga Vic 3690 (02) 6058 2555 (02) 6058 2544 www.wodonga.ymca.org.au

Have a say on new local laws PROVIDING a safe and healthy environment for all residents is the aim of the new Environment and Community Protection Local Law, passed at the April council meeting. The law aims to maintain peace and order in the city and protect the health, safety and enjoyment of the community. It also aims to protect community property and council assets and includes the regulation of waste, recyclables and rubbish. A person may make a submission on the proposal. All submissions will be considered in accordance with

section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989. Only submissions received by the council by 5pm on Friday, May 23, 2014 shall be considered. Submissions should be addressed to the chief executive officer and can be hand-delivered to the councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office at Hovell St, Wodonga, or posted to PO Box 923, Wodonga, 3689. Copies of the proposed local law and the associated standards and guidelines are available from the councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offices at 104 Hovell St, Wodonga, during business hours or at makewodongayours. com.au

Last instalment due

THE fourth rate instalment of the 2013-2014 rates and charges, is due on June 2, 2014. Properties that have instalments outstanding will be referred to a collection agency in June for legal proceedings if an arrangement is not in place.

The costs of any legal action can be considerable and will remain as a charge against the property until paid. The direct debit nine instalment payers last instalment for 2013-2014 is extracted from accounts on May 20. 9

What’s on UNI4U

Felltimber Community Centre is working with Mansfield Adult Continuing Education (MACE) in presenting training for Community Service Community Service Work. The first-year associate degree is delivered as a diploma one day a week for 18 months, with an embedded course in tertiary transition skills and the option of the second-year associate degree, facilitated online study with Swinburne University. Date: Now to June 26 (further dates to be advised) Time: 9.30am to 3.30pm Cost: To be confirmed with MACE – enrolment criteria applies Venue: Felltimber Community Centre Contact: (02) 6043 4550 Baranduda Youth Group The Baranduda Youth Group is a new program designed for the 12 to 15 age group in Baranduda and surrounds. The group will have a different activity each Friday that is designed to develop skills and knowledge, as well as being fun and a social event. Some of the activities for term two include, movie and popcorn nights, pool and air hockey competitions, sports games and board games. This is a chance for young people to come together in a healthy and supervised environment. Date: Every Friday during school term (Now to June 27) Time: 5pm to 7pm Cost: $5 per session (includes activity and snack) Venue: Baranduda Community Centre Contact: (02) 6020 8643 Elsewhere Date: Friday, May 30 to Saturday, June 21 Time: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am to 6pm; Thursday from 9.30am to 8pm; Saturday from 9.30am to 12.30pm Venue: Arts Space Wodonga Official opening: Friday, May 30, 5.30pm. Artist’s floor talk: Saturday, May 31, 10.30am. Established artist Mary Jane Griggs’ ability to identify and reflect her appreciation of her immediate landscape and environment is well known in her professional painting practice. “Elsewhere” further reveals Griggs’ inspiration drawn from her surroundings. This new body of paintings was created in response to time spent elsewhere this past summer. Enquiries: Arts Space Wodonga Phone: (02) 6022 9600 Millinery Workshop Have you ever admired the beautiful fascinators at the races and wanted to learn how to make your own? Do you have the perfect dress, and need the perfect head piece to match it? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then the millinery workshop at Baranduda is for you. Be taught by well known local milliner, Tania Scott who will show you how to use stunning fabrics, crystal gems and jewelled buttons 10

to make a piece that is tailored to your outfit and personality. Each participant gets to take home a hand-made creation. Date: Saturday, May 31 Time: 2pm to 5pm Cost: $45 (includes all materials) Venue: Baranduda Community Centre Contact: (02) 6020 8643 Master your Gadget Date: Every Tuesday, June 3 to August 26 Time: 9.30am to 12.00pm Cost: Free Venue: Wodonga Library Have you received a new gadget and want to know how to use it? Book a 30 minute session and bring along your gadget – smart phone, iPad camera or laptop. Tell the library what you want to learn when you make a booking. Enquiries and bookings: Please RSVP at Wodonga Library’s front desk or phone (02) 6022 9330 Artyfacts Date: Wednesday during school terms Term two: June 4 to June 25 Time: 3.45pm to 5.15pm Cost: $60 per term (pre-paid) Venue: Arts Space Wodonga Be inspired by the current exhibitions to create your own artwork. Learn new skills and techniques and be part of a fun creative group of young artists. Grade five to year eight. Bookings essential. Enquiries and bookings: Arts Space Wodonga education officer Leisa Whyte on (02) 6022 9609 Art Buzz Date: Fridays during school terms Term two: June 6 to Friday, June 27 Time: 10.30am to 11.30am Cost: Gold coin donation Venue: Arts Space Wodonga Creative visual art workshops for little hands, relating to the current exhibition. For ages three to five years and their parent/guardian. Bookings essential. Enquiries and bookings: Arts Space Wodonga education officer Leisa Whyte on (02) 6022 9609 Night time storytime Date: Thursday, June 12 Time: 6pm to 7pm Venue: Wodonga Library Come in your pyjamas and bring your teddy for a special bedtime story. Enquiries: Wodonga Library Phone: (02) 6022 9330 Cost: Free Ages: Pre-school Hume Murray Farmers Market Date: Saturdays, June 14 and June 28 Time: 8am to noon Venue: Gateway Village, Lincoln Causeway, Wodonga Come along for fresh produce and prepared foods grown and made on the region’s doorstep. Enquiries: Hume Murray Food Bowl on (02) 6058 2996, email info@ hmfb.org or visit hmfb.org

Little Me Market Date: Sunday, June 15 Time: 10am to 2pm Cost: Free. Site fee for market stallholders. Venue: The Cube Wodonga Little Me Market is a boutique market specialising in handmade and babies’ and children’s items. Stalls include children’s products, hand-made goods, food stalls, cupcakes, jewellery, soaps and much more. Enquiries: Jade Tauber on 0421 082 388, email info@littlememarket.com or visit littlememarket.com Manga and Anime Club Date: Thursday, June 19, Thursday, July 7 and Thursday, August 21 Time: 5.30pm to 7.30pm Venue: Wodonga Library Our fan group meets monthly to discuss their favourite manga and anime. Come in cos play! Enquiries: Wodonga Library Phone: (02) 6022 9330 Cost: $4 for pizza Ages: High School Fluff and Stuff Date: Thursdays, June 19, July 17 and August 21 Time: 5.30pm to 7.30pm Venue: Arts Space Wodonga Join in a series of mini-workshops facilitated by local textile artists. June 19 - Design a bag July 17 - Lavender and Linseed pillow August 21 - Headpiece or fascinator Enquiries: Arts Space Wodonga public programs officer Stacey Harrison Phone: (02) 6022 9609 Cost: $12 Booking essential: Yes An evening with author Alex Hammond Date: Thursday, June 26 Time: 6.30pm to 7.30pm Venue: Wodonga Library Bookings essential Together with the State Library Victoria, Wodonga Library is pleased to host an evening with Alex Hammond. Alex Hammond is a Melbourne-based thriller writer working on a series of novels featuring talented but emotionally impulsive defence lawyer Will Harris. His first novel, Blood Witness is available now and its sequel will be released in 2015. Join us for supper with Alex Hammond. Age: All ages Bookings: Wodonga Library on (02) 6022 9330 Cost: Free PASTE-UP POP-UP EXHIBITION Date: Saturday, June 28 to Friday, July 25, Venue: Arts Space Wodonga PASTE-UP POP-UP is an exhibition of new and street art practices explored by Wodonga’s young people. This interactive and evolving exhibition provides an opportunity for young people to participate in the evolving creation of an internal street scene. Stencils, paste-ups and exploratory street art techniques have and will be created through several street art workshop sessions. Arts Space

Wodonga will transform as an urban landscape displaying not only the talent of the participants, but also the endless possibilities of this exciting art practice. Official closing event: Friday, July 25, 5.30pm Enquiries: Arts Space Wodonga Phone: (02) 6022 9600 Cost: Free PASTE-UP POP-UP workshops When: Thursday, June 5, Friday, June 6, Thursday, June 12, Friday, June 13, - 4pm to 6pm; Saturday, June 28 - 10am to noon; Thursday, July 3, Friday, July 4, Thursday, July 10, Friday, July 11 - 10am to noon PASTE-UP POP-UP workshop sessions will explore mediums of street art. Workshop sessions are free and open to all young people and will be led by an experienced stencil artist. Participants will take part in transforming Arts Space Wodonga exhibition space into an urban street environment. Parents and carers please note this is a drop-in workshop and young people are free to come and go. Enquiries: Arts Space Wodonga Phone: (02) 6022 9600 Playstation Playoffs Date: Thursday, July 3 and Thursday, July 10 Time: 2pm to 4pm Venue: Wodonga Library Try out your skills against other players to find the ultimate gamer! We’ll have Rock Band, Sonic Racing and more. Enquiries: Wodonga Library Phone: (02) 6022 9330 Cost: Free Ages: School Aged Southern University Games Date: Sunday, July 6 to Thursday, July 10 1800 university students will converge on Wodonga from July 6 to July 10 to participate in 16 different sports from soccer and basketball to cheerleading and ultimate frisbee! Come down and watch some top quality sport in action. Enquiries: Pat Williams on (02) 6024 9841 or sug.coordinator@unisport.com.au Cost: Various Venue: Various Harry Potter Trivia Cup Date: Wednesday, July 9 Time: 2pm to 4pm Venue: Wodonga Library If you can tell a Parselmouth from a Patronus, and know where to find a Bezoar then this is for you! Wizards will compete in teams to answer questions. Prizes for the champions and dressing up is strongly encouraged. Enquiries: Wodonga Library Phone: (02) 6022 9330 Cost: Free Ages: 10 + Follow us:

2014 Budget edition

Time of great change

Building and Assets Debt Servicing

$25.00 $3.00

Waste management and Recycling

$9.40

Parks and Play

$9.20

Administration and Governance

$12.10

Arts and Culture

$7.10

Community Development

$10.90

Health, Safety and Well-being

$6.60

Roads and Infrastructure

$6.00

Planning

$3.70

Information and Communication

$3.50

Economic Development

$2.00

Tourism

$1.50

Tourism l Visitor information l Bonegilla Migrant Experience l Gateway Village

Economic development l Investment attraction

Information & Communications l Customer service l Communications & Marketing

Planning l Statutory planning l Strategic planning

$1.50 $2.00

Arts and Culture l Wodonga Library l The Cube Wodonga l Arts Space Wodonga l Events

$6.00

Health, Safety and Well-being l Maternal health l Healthy Together l Health inspections l Immunisations

Building and Assets l Asset management l Plant and fleet operations l Maintenance l Depreciation

$3.5

Roads and infrastructure l Roads maintanence

For every $100 the council spends:

Debt Servicing

$25.00

$6.60

$3.00

$7.10

$12.10

$9.20

Initiatives in the 2014 budget l Planning for growth. We will undertake the following studies: n Wodonga Growth Strategy $222.5k (Victorian Government funded)

l Walking Around Wodonga app piloted

l Positive Ageing strategy developed

n Baranduda Fields planning $50k

l Community Safety strategy developed

n Civic precinct planning $50k

l Sporting Hubs strategy developed

n Planning Scheme review $ 20k

l Environment strategy developed

n Central Business Area $60k

l Water and energy minimisation and re-use plan developed

Waste management & Recycling l Waste Transfer Station l Kerbside collection l Waste management

l Plan developed to reduce reliance on carbon-emitting fuel and energy l Digital Enterprise Program (funded) l Implement Economic Development strategy

l Night-time economy strategy developed

l Implement digital economy strategy

l Greening Wodonga Strategy developed

l Develop industrial land supply strategy

l Organics waste collection systems for industry/commerce developed

l Develop a “Street life/Main Street” strategy

$9.40

Parks and play l Parks and gardens l Reserves l Environmental land

l Models for libraries of the future developed

Strategies for sporting hubs and recreation and a Walking Around Wodonga app are some of the iniatives in the draft 2014-2015 budget.

Draft 2014-2015 Budget

$10.90

Administration & Governance l Finance and IT l Governance l Human resources

Community Development l Community Centres l Preschools l Youth Services l Volunteer services

2014 Budget edition

About the council plan: The plan outlines key strategic priorities that the council will deliver over the next four years. It is used to plan for the community – its priorities, major projects, services and budget allocations. The council’s mission is to strengthen our community in all that we do. This mission will guide the decisions of the council. The council plan is developed around three key areas Providing a great lifestyle Our people will enjoy an excellent quality of life.

Our people Planning for growth and development Wodonga is a prosperous regional city, alive with opportunity and thriving on growth and investment.

Our city Managing our business to support our community We are innovative, responsive and responsible in the way we conduct business.

Our future

Capital works program THE total capital works program will be $15.4 million. Highlights of the capital works program include: l $4.7m on renewing our assets l Development of a new Urban Square $600k l Bonegilla Welcome Centre facility $364k (Victorian Government funded)

l Logic miscellaneous service connections and infrastructure construction $750k (seeking Victorian Government funding) l James Scott Memorial Park Skate Park – Final stage $280k l Wodonga Raiders Netball redevelopment $257k (subject to Victorian Government funding) l Replace Trabants bridge $220k

l Church/Bank/Osburn streets traffic calming $120k

l Construct or upgrade three public toilets $300k

l Construct Felltimber Boardwalk and Fishing Platform $110k (subject to grant funding)

l Upgrade playground equipment $110k

l Hovell Street pedestrian improvement works $80k

l Construct new community paths $75k

l Jamieson Court Preschool expansion and redevelopment $467k (funding pending)

l New sporting facilities and equipment at Tooleys Park and East Wodonga $92k

Have your say THE Council Plan 2013-2017, year two adjusted and draft budget 2014-2015 have been prepared and are now on public exhibition for community feedback until June 11, 2014. The Council Plan includes the Strategic Resource Plan 2014-2015 to 2023-24. Members of the public are invited to give feedback on the Council Plan and the budget. Any person may make a written submission under section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act). The documents are available in hardcopy at the city offices in Hovell St, community centres and Wodonga Library or online at the council’s website at wodonga.vic.gov.au Only submissions received by council by 5pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 shall be considered. 12

Please note that copies of submissions (including submitters’ names and addresses) will be made available at the council meeting at which the above proposal will be considered. The council is also required to make submissions available for public inspection for a period of 12 months. Any person who has made a written submission to the council may request to be heard in support of their written submission, or be represented by a person acting on his or her behalf, before a meeting of the council or a committee appointed for this purpose. Where a person wishes to be heard by the council they must advise of such in their written submission. If required, the council will meet for this purpose at 9am on Monday, June 16, 2014

in the committee room, council offices, level 2, Hovell St, Wodonga. A report to the council on the result of the public submission process, including a summary of any submissions, will be provided to the council meeting scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2014 Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, and can be hand-delivered to council's office at Hovell St, Wodonga or posted to the following address: Wodonga City Council PO Box 923 Wodonga VIC 3689 Or head to makewodongayours.com.au to have your say.