WODONGA - ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
XXXXXX, 2015
wodonga.vic.gov.au
MUCH ADO ABOUT
MUSHROOMS BOOK NOW FOR FUNGI WORKSHOP PG 7
INSIDE YOUR CITYLIFE MAY, 2016
RAINY DAY PROJECT 3
RED CARPET YOUTH AWARDS 5
BULLRUSHES TO BOOMTOWN 9
WHAT’S ON IN WODONGA 12
YOUR COUNCIL
MAY, 2016
Time to stand up for your community CityLife is Wodonga Council’s monthly publication and is delivered around Wodonga. Approximately 17,000 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 US 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 CONNECT WITH US /wodongacouncil /wodongacouncil /wodonga council /wodongacouncil wod.city/wodenews
WELCOME to what might be my last “Over the Back Fence” for this council term. It has been an amazing three-anda-half years capped off by the latest announcement by Places Victoria and local developer, Central Place, to deliver new shops, services, housing and entertainment to Junction Place. As we head into the local elections, we are also in the midst of a long-awaited federal election. We have been primed for some time with strong contenders bidding for our vote. I, as your local government representative, believe this is a great opportunity to press for as much for our region as the swinging marginal seats of Ballarat, Bendigo and even Geelong. It is widely thought that marginal seats bring opportunities above and beyond those of any safe seat. I can only reflect sitting on the platform at Southern Cross to compare the rolling stock between the two services, Albury-
Wodonga and Ballarat; chalk and cheese in standards. I ask you to evaluate every promise and bring forward any suggestions to get the most out of these elections for your city. Also to bring a close to the political aspects, please everyone consider who might be a great balanced, communityminded person that may wish to stand for local council later this year. It is a very rewarding and fulfilling job to advance a region with a healthy lifestyle and so much potential for growth. Please don’t hesitate to make contact or attend a few council meetings to get a sense of what the job entails. As it was only a short time ago that Clean Up Australia Day was held, I wish to thank everyone that helped this year and over the past 10 years,
to collect rubbish and make our city environs cleaner and safer. I am a great believer that every day we should consider it Clean Up Wodonga Day and, if while taking a walk or visiting a park or waterway, you see an article of rubbish that is easy and safe to collect and dispose
of, I ask you to give it a try. This behaviour may shame the guilty ones. If it is too hard to collect, simply use the council’s Citywatch app. As mentioned in my opening, Junction Square is taking shape and both the Woolworths and Mann Central developments are pushing ahead. This is further evidence that Wodonga’s CBA is about to blossom and that our work on investigating a trial shared zone on High St is warranted.
I am a great believer that every day we should consider it Clean Up Wodonga Day
I stress the word “trial”, and also not until Havelock St through to Osburn St is open and complete. It is worth giving the shared zone a go as there is ample parking around the central business area so vehicles don’t really need to access this precinct. In closing, and as I finish writing this from the seat of the 6.02pm train service from Southern Cross station, I encourage as many people as possible to ditch the car and ride the trains. We need numbers to convince the powers that be in Spring St and Canberra that regional areas such as our fine twin cities need public transport that will deliver for the next 50 years. Plus we need to catch a local bus to increase our usage and enable us to demand more services. Or, better still, ride a bike or take a walk - your body will thank you for it! Best wishes to you all and the enjoy the autumn and winter months. There is no doubt that we do live in a special part of Australia!
CR ANNA SPEEDIE
CR MARK BYATT
CR MICHAEL FRASER
CR ERIC KERR
0417 138 938 aspeedie@wodonga.vic.gov.au
0408 285 930 mbyatt@wodonga.vic.gov.au
0428 321 764 mfraser@wodonga.vic.gov.au
0428 438 129 ekerr@wodonga.vic.gov.au
CR LISA MAHOOD
CR RODNEY WANGMAN
CR JOHN WATSON
0409 562 903 lmahood@wodonga.vic.gov.au
0400 956 253 rwangman@wodonga.vic.gov.au
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 meeting is scheduled for June 22. 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.
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CITYLIFE WODONGA
YOUR COUNCIL
MAY, 2016
LOBBYING and LEADERSHIP WODONGA Mayor Cr Anna Speedie has spent time in Canberra in March and April, lobbying on behalf of the city on a range of issues and capital projects, including meeting with local member for Indi Cathy McGowan, pictured.
Project to shine on a rainy day RAINY days will become something to look forward to in Wodonga with the installation of artworks that appear only when wet. A group of young local artists from Wodonga’s Flexible Leaning Centre has created about 30 stencils that will be used with a silicon spray on pavements around the central business area. Some of the artworks relate to a water theme including fish, dolphins and crabs, while others will be of footprints, positive messages and other images. Assisting the group of about 10 artists is art
instructor, Linda Fish, who said it was great to see the 15 to 17-year-olds taking their work out to the public. “I think it’s really nice that young people are making something for the community,” she said. “They’ve really put a lot of thought into who was going to see what, what would be appropriate and what might make people laugh. “I think it will make us all feel really good.” Principal of Wodonga Flexible Learning Centre Huw Derwentsmith said the project gives the students an opportunity that’s outside of school and completely
different to anything else they’re done.
Dolphins, crabs and many other water themed artworks will be on display around Wodonga “This project is great because the students hear about the impact art has on others, and hopefully they will think about art differently themselves,” he said. “These students struggle
to maintain the traditional forms of education sand need ways of learning that is personalised. This type of project keeps them connected; it sparks a sense of wonder and is another way of tapping into what inspires them.” The artworks are expected to be installed from Monday, May 16 and will form a trail from The Cube Wodonga Courtyard out to Belvoir Park. A map of locations will be available from Wodonga Council offices. FOR MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au
Volunteers to be recognised at annual fair ALL volunteers, potential volunteers, organisations who rely on volunteers, and people grateful for volunteers are invited to the Wodonga Volunteer Fair on Saturday, May 14, 2016 from 11.30am to 1.30pm at The Cube Wodonga Courtyard. If you represent an organisation, why not host a market stall to raise your ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
profile – and invite your volunteers, too! As well as market stalls there will be live music, prizes, face painting, and a free barbecue lunch. Wodonga has many active volunteers who provide critical support across the entire community from service clubs to churches, sporting associations,
emergency groups and more. The Wodonga Volunteer of the Year Awards will also be announced at the fair. These awards recognise the outstanding contribution volunteers make to our community and will be awarded to both individuals and teams across the categories of arts and culture, community service,
sport and recreation and Environment, science and technology. The fair occurs during National Volunteer Week from May 9 to 15. To attend the barbecue, please RSVP for catering purposes to info@wodonga. vic.gov.au or by phoning (02) 6022 9300 by Wednesday, May 4.
At the beginning of April, Wodonga played host to the Regional Capitals Australia Regionalism 2.0 conference. Wodonga is a member of Regional Capitals Australia which is an alliance of local governments from across Australia’s regional cities. The conference was attended by councillors and council staff from Western Australia, Queenslands and the east coast and many took the opportunity to wander around the city during their stay. Senator Bridget McKenzie, Senator for Victoria, and the Hon. Julie Collins, Shadow Minister for Regional Development and Local Government gave keynote addresses at the conference. There was a meeting of Regional Cities Victoria, of which Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie is the deputy chair, which consists of Victoria’s 10 largest regional cities. The meeting was attended by Victorian Opposition Leader Matthew Guy following his announcement of a Population Taskforce to examine ways to attract more people to regional Victoria. Cr Speedie has also been visiting local schools talking about government and leadership in the community.
CITYLIFE
3
Y UR SAY
MAY, 2015
When will I get more kitchen caddy liners?
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gistratio my pet re
paid I haven’t do it? can I still
All Wodonga homes will receive their next roll of compostable caddy liners in June, in line with the first anniversary of the introduction of the organic (green-lidded) bin in June 2015. Albury residents received their annual roll in Apil, one year after organic collection was introduced. If you’ve already run out, you can collect more from the council offices at 104 Hovell St, Wodonga, or from Cleanaway. You can also use newspaper instead or as well which reduces leakage and odour, or simply put your scraps directly in the green-lidded bin. Please don’t use other bags even if they are labelled biodegradable as they are considered contaminants.
Can I park my car in my driveway if it overhangs the footpath?
I can h ea about i r a barking do t? g; wha t
No - it is illegal to park with your vehicle in your driveway when it’s overhanging the footpath according to the Victorian Dog and cat registration renewals were due April 10. If you haven’t paid them, you Road Rules. Many residents and visitors still can either online at wodonga.vic.gov. require a wheelchair or motorised au (under Online Services) or in person at transport such as a scooter to get along 104 Hovell St Wodonga. You also need to pathways in the city. Failing to keep the path clear can result in an infringement update council if your dog or cat passes notice. So remember, don’t park on a away (or there is a change in ownership) so that if your pet is ever lost, you can be bike path or footpath, on a nature strip or across a private driveway. reunited quickly.
can I d
o
If there is a dog persistently barking and causing disruption to residents, the first step could be to discuss the issue with your neighbour - try using our friendly letter which you can download from wodonga.vic.gov.au/animals If that doesn’t resolve things, you can report the issue to council online or by phoning (02) 6022 9300.
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Have your say at makewodongayours.com.au SOMETHING TO SAY?
DRAFT BUDGET DUE OUT THIS MONTH
Do you have something to say or share with us? You can contact council several ways: in person at 104 Hovell St Wodonga, by phoning (02) 6022 3900 or by emailing info@wodonga.vic.gov.au You can also have your say about projects currently happening in Wodonga at our engagement portal, Make Wodonga Yours.
WODONGA Council is due to adopt its draft budget for 2016-2017 at the ordinary meeting on Monday, May 16. Residents will be invited to have their say on the items included, or not included, in the draft as well as the updated Council Plan in the subsequent public exhibition period. The documents will be available in hard copy at the city offices in Hovell St, community centres and Wodonga Library, or online.
MAKEWODONGAYOURS.COM.AU 4
CITYLIFE WODONGA
NEWS
MAY, 2016
RED Carpet awards recognise youth’s contribution
Follow the Wodonga Youth Facebook page to stay updated on youth activities in the city
CATEGORIES FOR 2016 n Individual Community Service Award sponsored by the Wodonga Chamber of Commerce n Sport and Recreation Volunteer Award sponsored by YMCA Wodonga n Young Carer Award sponsored by Murray Valley Radiation Oncology Victoria - Genesis Care n Apprenticeship/Traineeship Award sponsored by ATEL Employment Services n Endurance/Persistence Award sponsored by Aware Industries n Advocacy and Action Award sponsored by Rotary Club Wodonga Central n Performing Arts Award sponsored by MEGASMUSIC.com.au n Visual Arts and Media Award sponsored by Dutch Media n Youth Ambassador Award sponsored by the RACV
Calling groups for fair WHY not exhibit your group or club at the Wodonga Children’s Fair? Have you got something to show or share with more than 13,000 other people from across Wodonga and the region? Send in your expression of interest now to be part of the 2016 Wodonga Children’s Fair on Sunday, October 23 from 10am to 3pm at the Wodonga Racecourse and Showground. With a theme of ‘Our world’, this year the Fair will explore cultures from right around the world. We want to hear from local dance groups, musicians or choirs wanting to perform; sporting clubs or community organisations willing to put on a free activity for kids; market stallholders; and local food vendors. For more information or to express your interest, visit wodonga.vic.gov.au/childrens-fair
Dive in to seniors event LOOKING to give something back to the Wodonga community? Get involved in the Wodonga’s Senior Celebrations throughout October 2016. 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. 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 can get an expression of interest form: In person: 104 Hovell St, Wodonga Online: wodonga.vic.gov.au/snr-celebrations By phone: Melissa Nagle on (02) 6022 9281 ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
YOUNG people aged between 14 and 24 years who work, live, study or volunteer in Wodonga are eligible to be nominated for Wodonga Council’s eighth annual RED Carpet Youth Awards. Wodonga Cr Michael Fraser said the aim of the awards was to recognise and acknowledge all the wonderful contributions young people make in our community. “The RED Carpet Youth Awards strengthen Wodonga’s support of young people through community recognition, celebration and promoting young people’s achievements. “The awards allow our community to nominate and support young people with different life experiences to celebrate and recognise the contribution they make to the community.” Committee member Mia McGaffin said the awards
SHARE AND STAY SAFE
WODONGA residents are urged to be mindful of other users when walking or riding on the city’s shared paths. Shared pathways can be identified by an image of a pedestrian and bike on a sign or pavement. All users of shared paths must keep left, unless overtaking. Bike riders and skaters must give way to pedestrians, including people in wheelchairs or on mobility scooters. A speed limit of 10km per hour applies in shared zones and when overtaking pedestrians, bike riders should slow down, ring their bell in advance and leave enough space between them and the person they are passing. By law, bike riders are also required to wear a helmet.
If riding at night, bikes should have a front white light, a rear red light that can be seen 200 metres away, and a rear red reflector. Cyclists should also be aware that most ordinary footpaths (1.2 metres to 1.5 metres in width) are designated for pedestrians only, except for children on bikes and accompanying adults. Paths marked with a sign, “Bicycles only”, are reserved just for bikes. Wodonga’s bike tracks have a grading system and are marked as suitable for beginner, intermediate or experienced cyclists. Anyone using Wodonga’s pathways should keep well hydrated, be sun smart and wear clothing that can be seen to help keep you safe.
started because many young people told council they didn’t feel recognised. “A lot of young people are helping others out in their own time and at their own expense, so these awards recognise their contribution. Whether they are helping by coaching a sporting team for a short period of time, or being a carer for someone long-term, we want to celebrate the positive change that young people create in the community,” said Mia. Nomination forms can be downloaded from wodonga. vic.gov.au/rca. Nominations close on Friday, May 27, 2016. A gala dinner and award ceremony will be held at The Cube Wodonga on Friday, July 29, 2016. MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au/rca
WASTE CUT BY 33% WITH NEW SYSTEM SINCE the 3-bin system was introduced a year ago, more than 80 per cent of the region’s household waste has been diverted away from landfill and almost 16,000 tonnes turned into compost. Thanks to your hard work, we’ve already reduced our waste by 33 per cent across the combined regions of Wodonga, Albury, Indigo Shire and Corowa Shire. This means we are well on our way to our goal of halving our waste by 2020. In Wodonga, in just the month of March, 261.29 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been saved. This is equivalent to l 51 cars permanently removed from roads; l 8009 Gj of energy which is the amount 371 households use per year; and. l 6848 kilolitres of water or 2.7 Olympic swimming pools. MORE INFORMATION halvewaste.com.au
CITYLIFE
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YOUR CITY
MAY, 2016
Why are there no turning lanes on Elgin Boulevard?
BEHIND THE SCENES
Your questions answered.
A lot has changed in our city centre in a short space of timeincluding the Elgin Boulevard realignment. Through various community consultations over recent years, including the Wodonga Integrated Transport Strategy, the CBA Revitalisation Plan and through the High St Reference Group, a common theme has been that the central business area should be more pedestrian friendly. In 2013, it looked like image one.
Vehicles travelling east could not travel any further east without proceeding to South St in the north or Lawrence St to the south and traffic coming out of Elgin Boulevard west had to cross two lanes of traffic to turn right to continue along Elgin Boulevard. The only dedicated left turn lane was the left turn slip lane for vehicles heading east into High St from Elgin Boulevard where vehicles had to give way to pedestrians crossing the zebra crossing. The northbound left lane
at the Elgin Boulevard intersection, didn’t have a left-hand turn arrow in the signal phase so left turning movements could only occur on the green light and these vehicles were required to give way to any pedestrians that were crossing in a north-south or south-north direction on the pedestrian crossing even when the traffic signal was green. Motorists couldn’t turn right into Elgin Boulevard east from High St and pedestrian movements at the intersection were also quite difficult, particularly for people with limited mobility
and the vision impaired, with multiple crossing points and kerb crossings. Now, the intersection looks like image two. Vehicles can turn in any direction at the intersection. Traffic flow is controlled by left and right-hand turn phases and pedestrians are given priority with a full pedestrian phase with a significant improvement for residents with limited mobility. The new intersection includes a pedestrian-only phase in every direction and does not feature any dedicated left-hand turn lanes.
SO WHY LEFT TURNS ARROWS? The left arrow has no impact on the length of each of the phases at the traffic lights and corresponds with the right-hand turn phase of the opposing leg of traffic. Those vehicles in the front position wishing to turn left can then do so because unlike NSW, Victorian road rules do not allow a left turn on a red signal after stopping. The pedestrian-only phase means vehicles turning left are also not forced to wait on a green light for people to cross.
WHY NO DEDICATED LEFT TURN LANES? The introduction of dedicated left turn lanes on all four legs of the intersection would require at least 415 square metres of pedestrian area to be given over to vehicles to cater for four, left-turning vehicles. This is contrary to the aspirations of the community in relation to making the CBA more pedestrian friendly. The left-turn lanes would also increase the distance pedestrians are required to travel to cross the road, which in turn increases the length of the pedestrian phase and the time vehicles wait for a green light. The phasing at the traffic lights is now about 40 seconds in each direction and a 40-second pedestrian phase. A critical consideration is also the length of any left-turn lane for it to be functional. A 12-hour origin-destination survey of High St in October 2015 found a large percentage of vehicles head straight through the intersection. This would mean vehicles going straight would block the left-hand turn lane, making it ineffective unless its length was pushed further back along High St taking away even more pedestrian space.
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The survey found 1079 north-bound vehicles turned left at the intersection and of these 60 per cent took five minutes or less from Lawrence St to exiting at Elgin Boulevard west. Considering the destinations along this stretch of road, those vehicles turning left are heading beyond Hume St and had two previous opportunities to take alternative routes to get to their desired destination - left at Lawrence St (preferable) or left at Stanley St. These routes are more efficient and cover the same distance. Only vehicles which have stopped and shopped in High St and then wish to head west should be those turning left at Elgin Boulevard. That is the 29 per cent of cars that on the day of the survey took longer than 10 minutes to exit the zone. This also applies to vehicles heading south on High St and turning left into Elgin Boulevard. The alternative for those not wishing to stop in Elgin Boulevard east would be to turn left at either Osburn St or South St. Both Osburn St and South St have dedicated left hand turn lanes to accommodate this movement. The survey found 86 per cent of vehicles turning left from Elgin Boulevard to head north along High St took two minutes or less to travel this section, meaning it is unlikely they stopped and shopped. These vehicles could turn left at Watson or Smythe streets.
WHY DO WE HAVE A PEDESTRIAN ONLY PHASE? The pedestrian-only phase is another measure that promotes pedestrian safety and activity and is only activated on the pressing of the pedestrian button. As developments around this intersection are completed, foot traffic in the area and through the intersection will greatly increase. This can be observed during recent events at Junction Square like the farmer’s markets.
The planning of any part of the road network is carefully considered and thought out with the aspirations of the community taken into account while providing the best outcome for users. The flow of traffic through High St has changed dramatically from the two lanes in each direction, parallel parking and a 60kmh speed limit of a few years ago. The experience for those in the street, be it on foot, in a mobility scooter or on a bike is much more pleasant, safer and easier to get around. The street is slower and there is a significant increase in parking and as part of the overall plan, alternative routes are available be it the inner ring road or the outer ring road. These will be further enhanced with the extension of Havelock St through to Osburn St and the reconstruction of South St from High St to Smythe St.
CITYLIFE WODONGA
NEWS
MAY, 2016
Fungi workshop covers the delicious, deadly AUSTRALIA’S diverse range of fungi can be edible and delicious, while others can be deadly. A workshop at the Bonegilla Migrant Experience this month will include information about how to correctly identify edible and toxic species. Ecologist and environmental photographer Alison Pouliot will lead the workshop introducing participants to the diversity, ecology and curiosities of the kingdom fungi. Information will be specific to fungi found in the local region, as well as within a wider Australian context. Ms Pouliot, who has been running fungal ecology workshops in Australia and Europe for the past 15 years, said much of Australia’s knowledge of fungi was learned from migrants. “Many Aboriginal Australians use fungi as a source of food, medicine, decoration and for various
Time to start thinking about preschool IT’S that time of year for those of you with young children who are thinking about preschool in 2017. Wodonga Council will be offering three-year-old (three hours) and four-yearold (15 hours) preschool programs from six sites in 2017. To help you decide which preschool to send your child, why not come along to the preschool open days? This will give you an opportunity to see the preschool programs, view the facilities and have a chat to staff before making your final deision. Parents and children are welcome to visit the centres on the open days between the hours of 9.30am and 11.30am. Enrolments are now being accepted for places with first round offers closing on July 31, 2016. Application forms are
available at the council offices, maternal and child health and community centres or alternatively on the website wodonga. vic.gov.au and follow the children’s services link. For further enquiries please feel free to contact the Early Years team on (02) 6022 9300. OPEN DAYS • Tuesday, June 14, 2016 for Southern Rise Children’s Centre • Wednesday, June 15, 2016 for Jamieson Court Preschool and Southern Rise Children’s Centre • Thursday, June 16, 2016 at *Baranduda Preschool, Belgrade Ave Preschool and Felltimber Children’s Centre (Please note that Open day for Baranduda preschool will be conducted at the Baranduda centre) • Friday, June 17, 2016 at Stanley St Preschool
FOR MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au/preschool
ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
ECOLOGIST and environmental photographer, Alison Pouliot
other reasons. Unfortunately, much of this knowledge has been lost,” she said. “The early British migrants brought with them a fear or disinterest in fungi. “It was the various waves of post-war continental Europeans, who had long traditions of foraging for fungi in their homelands, who arrived in Australia and brought knowledge with them about edibility and use of fungi.” Given the scepticism about fungi of many Australians of British
heritage, Ms Pouliot said it has been a slow process for fungi to be accepted as a source of food. “As the edibility of Australian native fungi is poorly known, most foragers search for fungi in the European plantations such as pine plantations in Australia as these fungi are also European as they live in association with the European trees,” she said. “In the last couple of decades, as interest in ‘wild foraging’ grows, all sorts of people are showing interest in fungi and are keen to know more about which species are edible.” “An introduction to a curious kingdom”, will be held from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday, May 14. The cost of $80 includes morning tea and lunch. Tickets available from The Cube Wodonga box office on (02) 6022 9311 or at thecubewodonga.com.au/ tickets
WATER SAVINGS FOR CITY’S PARKS AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON WODONGA Council made significant time and water savings last summer with new high-tech irrigation systems at sporting ovals and prominent city streetscapes. The $472,000 upgrade automatically detects rainfall, leaks, over and under-watering and sends an alert straight to a council smart phone or device. Staff can then shut down or alter the system remotely and respond. Team leader Parks Richard Lamb said over the 20152016 summer, it resulted in massive savings in time and resources. “We used to rely on staff inspections and members of the public to report any faults, or if it was raining we would have to go around to each location and turn the water off,” he said. “Now we’ve got all the information in front of us at home or at the office and with just the click of a button, we can shut everything down.
Richard Lamb with the high-tech watering system. “The new system also uses the monitoring data to apply water in a way that minimises wastage. For example, the system will change its irrigation patterns based on rainfall, heavy winds and other factors.” The upgrade was completed in autumn last year following a $372,000 grant from the Local Water Management Fund. Wodonga Council
contributed a further $100,000 in cash and in-kind support. New turf was also installed at two sporting ovals, Willow Park and Baranduda ovals, to make them more drought-tolerant. The expected savings will assist Wodonga in becoming more resilient to drier summers and less reliant on increasing the amount of water required to keep areas green and usable. CITYLIFE
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NEWS
MAY, 2016
ENJOY OUR NATURE SPACES WITHOUT GETTING IN YOUR CAR WODONGA has a wide range of green spaces where you can unwind, exercise or socialise. If you live on the southern edge of the city from Leneva through to Baranduda, chances are that there is a special type of reserve you can access without even getting in the car. These local reserves form the Wodonga Retained Environment Network and they provide nature to enjoy close to home. They protect threatened native species of wildlife and plants, providing the habitat on which rare and endangered creatures depend. Even the narrow strips of remnant bush along former roads are important. Most of the reserves are accessible to the public. They offer opportunities for walking, cycling, jogging, nature photography and bird or wildlife-spotting. They are ideal for introducing children to bushland.
It is essential that the reserves are left untouched so they can be there to benefit future generations. Wodonga Council and community groups monitor them to ensure there is no dumping of rubbish or green waste, removal of fallen limbs or dead trees, or pets roaming uncontrolled. Volunteer groups help keep the reserves healthy through activities like revegetation and weed control. Contact the council if you would like information on a group near you, and download the factsheets on the reserves via our website. MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au
EAGLE AWARD
‘Hand to Hand’ circus performers artists Nick Hutchinson and William Jutras received a Community Impact Grant recently. Photo by AJ Saltalamachia
Grants empower community INDIVIDUALS and community groups in Wodonga can apply for funding to grow ideas creatively to ultimately improve the city through Wodonga Council’s Community Impact Grants. The grants offer up to $500 for an individual, or up to $5,000 for an organisation (or workplace, or individual auspiced by a community organisation) and aim to build stronger communities, support a sustainable environment, and celebrate arts and culture. The grants aim to celebrate and support
our community, by funding ideas and initiatives that aim to strengthen social outcomes for all. One recent recipient was the AlburyWodonga Ethnic Communities Council who won the funding to help ethnic communities to voice their concerns, and to advocate on their behalf. Applications close Tuesday, May 10, 2016. MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au/cigp
YASS AWARDS
Refugee recognised for community work BHUTANESE refugee, Teju Chouhan, was last month recognised for his extensive community work with an Eagle Award presented by Wodonga Council. Mr Chouhan arrived on the Border in 2008, one of the first Bhutanese refugees to settle in the region after spending almost 18 years in a Nepal refugee camp. Since his arrival, Mr Chouhan has been a long serving president of the Bhutanese Association in Albury, member of the Federation of Ethnic Communities Council of Australia and involved in advocacy with the Refugee Council of Australia. In 2014 Mr Chouhan was elected as the first chairman of the Albury-Wodonga Ethnic Communities Council (AWECC). He has been instrumental in the establishment of this organisation, which was 8
formed to represent ethnic communities on the Border. Mr Chouhan has been a long-term volunteer at St Vincent de Paul, helping refugee families settle in the community. In 2015, he attended several meetings of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Geneva, Switzerland. Mr Chouhan is an accredited Nepali interpreter and works as a transition support worker at Wodonga Senior Secondary College. He is also a qualified social worker.
Aussie champs honoured A promising young basketballer, who was recently selected to play for Australia in an age group above her own, was one of two Wodonga Council Young Achiever Support (YASS) recipients last month. Cassi Mathey, 13, first attended a skills day in Wangaratta where she was accepted into the Basketball Victoria regional academy program, involving 20 weeks of intensive training. She then secured a spot
on one of two teams to enter the Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup held in Albury-Wodonga in early January. At the end of the cup selectors picked 10 girls to compete in a tournament in Tauranga, New Zealand, at Easter. Cassi and her teammates competed in the under 15 category, making them one year younger than their competitors, and were thrilled to finish as runner-up.
ONE of Declan Herring’s proudest moments was representing Wodonga at the Australian Age Swimming Championships in Adelaide in March. There he finished 17th in the 100m breaststroke and 33rd in the 200m breaststroke in the boys aged 17 to 18 years category. Declan, 17, is a member of the Wodonga Amateur Swimming Club, Declan also competed at the Victorian State Age Championships in five events last December. In three of those events, he ranked in the top 10 in Victoria. He is ranked fourth in the state for the 100m breaststroke, seventh in the state for 50m freestyle and fifth for the 200m breastroke.
CITYLIFE WODONGA
NEWS
MAY, 2016
IN BRIEF DO YOU USE BPAY VIEW?
Take care and give way at city’s wombat crossings
Wodonga Council is able to issue rate notices via BPay View directly to your personal internet banking portal. Register through your internet banking site. If you register before the notices go out then you will receive the notice directly into your internet banking site and will receive a notification either via SMS or email to say it is available for viewing. 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. E-NEWSLETTERS Wodonga Council has a range of e-newsletters to keep you up-to-date with events and happenings on things that interest you. Sign up via the link below. wod.city/enews ALTERNATE ROUTES Motorists can cut their travel time and avoid traffic congestion by using the ring road network. wod.city/ AltRoutesMarch2015
ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
MOTORISTS are reminded to stop and give way when a pedestrian is using or about to use a pedestrian crossing. Three new pedestrian crossings have recently been built as part of Wodonga Council’s focus on people-friendly spaces in the central business area. The “wombat crossings” consist of a wide, raised platform, zebra stripes and pedestrian signage. At these crossings, drivers must give way to pedestrians at all times. They also must not block a pedestrian crossing or children’s crossing, and must ensure the road beyond is clear to enable
people to pass over the crossing. Pedestrians may cross at any time with care. However, they should check drivers have seen them and make sure there is a reasonable gap in the traffic so drivers are able to stop. Children up to 10 years old should be actively supervised and should hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road. The new crossings feature lights and are at: l Lawrence St near the corner of High St; l Lawrence St between William and Hume streets; and, l Reid St near Wodonga Courthouse.
Research has shown the wombat crossings slow the majority of traffic by about 40 per cent and the wide, raised walkway also increases walker visibility. The crossings fit in with the council’s long-term plan to “pedestrianise” the CBA with the priority on people movements while still allowing vehicle access. This comes after feedback from the community through the CBA Revitalisation Plan, the Wodonga Integrated Transport Strategy and the Wodonga 2030 vision. FOR MORE INFORMATION wodonga.vic.gov.au
Bus tour highlights city changes BUS tours show Wodonga from bullrush days to boom town Want to know what’s going on in Wodonga? 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 bus tour is on Tuesday, May 10, 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, May 6 online at wcbustour-may16. eventbrite.com.au or phone Fiona on (02) 6022 9202.
BECOMING A OWNER BUILDER AN owner builder is someone who carries out building work on his or her own land. Owner builders take on many of the responsibilities of a registered builder including: obtaining permits; scheduling, supervising and/or carrying out building work themselves; ensuring the work meets all relevant building regulations, standards and other laws; and arranging the appropriate building inspections and the final or occupancy certificate at completion of the works. As an owner builder, you are required to obtain a certificate of consent from the Victorian Building Authority where the value of works is more than $12,000 in order to obtain a building permit. Obtaining a certificate of consent does not guarantee that you will be issued with a building permit. A building permit will need to be obtained from a registered building surveyor. Note: An owner builder report and associated insurance will be required if you sell your owner built property within six and a half years of completion. For more information on becoming an owner builder, please contact the Victorian Building Authority at vba.vic. gov.au, phone 1300 815 127 or email customerservice@ vba.vic.gov.au
PROMOTE ON HIGH ST WALL DO you have a community or cultural initiative or project you would like to promote? Get the word out by using Reflections On High, and exhibition space in High St, Wodonga. The space is open to various artistic, community and cultural groups. Displays might be in response to a local issue or celebration, or be a unique, site-specific work. Spaces are still available and can be booked through Arts Space Wodonga Phone (02) 6022 9609 or download the application form and conditions of hire from the council’s website at wodonga.vic.gov.au CITYLIFE
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WHAT’S ON
MAY, 2016
Community cooking benefits all
@ THE LIBRARY
THE Felltimber Community Centre’s community cooking group has been running successfully for the past nine months with the food provided by Albury Wodonga Regional Foodshare. The main aim of the program is to support people with the cost of the weekly food bills, but also offers a place where people come together to socialise, learn new skills and enjoy the family friendly atmosphere. Our volunteer facilitators donate their time each week to design and assist the group to create hearty homestyle meals within a relaxed, supportive environment. This is a free program open to all community members whether you are a student living on minimal income, unemployed, a pensioner, single parent, have medical bills or just find that the
NATIONAL SIMULTANEOUS STORYTIME JOIN Wodonga Library with special guests as they read this year’s book, I Got This Hat written by Jol and Kate Temple and illustrated by Jon Foye. When: Wednesday, May 25 at 11am Cost: Free Enquiries: (02) 6022 9330
budget cannot stretch any further. Sessions are available Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm, and Friday afternoon
from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, running during school terms. For more information please phone the centre on (02) 6043 4550.
Spoil mum with a roast dinner THE Bonegilla Migrant Experience will serve up roast with a side of history for Mother’s Day again this year. The Mother’s Day Sunday Roast on Sunday, May 8 will celebrate a traditional Australian meal and reflect on the migrants’ first thoughts of the nation’s food. A guided tour of the site will leave from the Welcome Centre at 11am. Diners will then find their place, just like the migrants did, on a communal table for lunch at 12.30pm. Live entertainment will be provided by Border musician, Peter Cominos. Tours cost $10 for adults,
$8 for children and $25 for families. Payment is to be made on the day. Lunch cost $30 for adults, or $20 for children aged from two to 12 years.
Communities connect ON Tuesday May 10 Wodonga’s local Community Centres and Neighbourhood Houses are gathering in The Cube Courtyard to showcase their centre. There will be information about your centres, the programs and events on offer, and the vast and varied activities your community centres get up to. There will be interactive activities to get involved in also. Baranduda Community Centre, Birralee Neighbourhood House, Felltimber Community Centre and Trudewind Road Neighbourhood House will be present on the day. Take this opportunity to support and celebrate your neighbourhood house and spend some time meeting others involved in your community. The event is on from 10am to 2pm.
Bookings are essential and can be made via The Cube Wodonga box office on (02) 6022 9311 or at thecubewodonga.com.au/ tickets
MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC BRING the family, form a team or come on your own to the 2016 Albury Wodonga Mother’s Day 5km walk/run Classic on 10am Sunday, May 8 at Belvoir Park (Sumsion Gardens). Come along and support everyone or simply make a donation! To register (or make a donation) visit mothersdayclassic. com.au/event-info/ regional-event-locations/ new-south-wales/alburywodonga/
TINKER TEAM
LEGO CLUB
GET hands on with technology and learn new skills in this afterschool maker space. Develop the techniques to start creating your own projects. Over four sessions you will learn about programming, robotics, design and electronics.
BUILD and create in this afterschool group for master builders. Join the club every fortnight to imagine around a new theme.
When: Mondays, May 2, 16 and 30 from 4.30pm to 6pm Age: 10 to 15 years Cost: Free Bookings required: (02) 6022 9330
When: Mondays, May 9 and 23, and June 6 from 4pm to 5pm Age: Eight to 12 years Cost: Free Bookings required: (02) 6022 9330
STAR WARS DAY
MANGA AND ANIME
MAY the force be with you, as you use your Jedi skills in a range of galactic activities. Karaoke, crafts and activities for the whole family. Costumes encouraged.
THIS fan group meets monthly to discuss their favourite manga and anime.
When: Wednesday, May 4 from 6pm to 7.30pm Cost: Free
TECH SESSIONS IN THE LIBRARY - MAC
When: Thursday, May 19 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm Age: High school Cost: $4 for pizza TECH SESSIONS IN THE LIBRARY – IPADS/IPHONES
IT classes will be held on the first Friday of the month. Come along with the willingness to learn something new. This session will focus on Macs.
IT classes will be held on the first Friday of the month. Come along with the willingness to learn something new. This session will focus on iPads and iPhones.
When: Friday, May 6 from 10am to noon Cost: Free Bookings required: (02) 6022 9330
When: Friday, June 3 from 10am to noon Cost: Free Bookings required: (02) 6022 9330
FOR MORE INFORMATION wodongalibrary.com.au
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WHAT’S ON
MAY, 2016
@ ARTS SPACE WODONGA
CATCH A SHOW DON’T MISS
Tangibility/Abstraction EMERGING Melbourne-based artist Petra Nicel presents a new body of work that crosses the boundaries of photo media and installation. Nicel’s imagery includes suggestions of cloud like forms and substances that give the sensation of floating, and of experiencing the unknown. An immersive experience,
this exhibition includes a collection of immaculate images and moments that present as the familiar, and yet the unknown.
LINSANITY, which documents the amazing journey of NBA basketballer Jeremy Lin, will screen at The Cube Wodonga as part of its new Movies That Matter series. The Cube Wodonga is set to host another series of winter movie nights with the theme this year being Movies That Matter. Kicking off the season will be Linsanity at 6.30pm on Wednesday, June 1. Capturing rare insights and footage, Linsanity documents Jeremy Lin’s amazing
Exhibition: Friday, May 6 to Saturday, May 28 Opening: Friday, May 6 at 5.30pm Artist floor talk: Saturday, May 7 at 10am
When: Monday, May 16 from 10.15am Where: Arts Space Wodonga Cost: $8 Bookings essential: The Cube Wodonga box office on (02) 6022 9311 or at thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets
Folio workshop for artists
PETRA Nicel will share her knowledge of folio preparation with senior students and teachers of art, design and photography. Students and teachers will be given practical examples for creating a successful folio.
Bring along your current visual diaries and folios to work on. When: Saturday, May 7 from 11.30am to 1.30pm Where: Arts Space Wodonga Cost: $10 Enquiries: (02) 6022 9600
Next exhibition: Bushranger
A collection of recent landscape paintings by artist Nina Machielse Hunt. In response to her immediate surroundings within the Woolshed Valley of North East Victoria, Machielse Hunt presents a new body of work which explores the rich history of the region and its stories of the gold rush and bush ranger heritage. Completed en plein-air and in the studio, these semi abstract works are a direct response to this rugged bush terrain which still speaks of the historical chapters the region is famous for. The result is an energetic
CAFÉ CULTURE SERIES MELBOURNE CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC GUITAR QUARTET FILM THEMES AND FAVOURITES THE Murray Conservatorium orchestra band and Celtic ensemble perform film themes and favourites from the big screen and stage. When: Sunday, May 15 at 3pm Where: The Cube Wodonga Cost: $25, concession $20, members $19, child $5 Bookings essential: The Cube Wodonga box office on (02) 6022 9311 or at thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets ARTS SPACE ECHOES
visual experience of a familiar Australian story. Exhibition: Friday, June 3 to Saturday, June 25 Opening: Friday, June 3 at 5.30pm Artist floor talk: Saturday, June 4 at 10am
journey to the NBA from a child of immigrants who refused to give up on his dream. Rated G, Linsanity tells the story of the faith that sustains and guides him in the face of opposition and setbacks. Other movies planned as part of the series are Little Boy, to be screened on Wednesday, July 6, and He Named Me Malala on Wednesday, August 3. All movies are free, with no bookings required.
ARTS Space Wodonga and Murray Conservatorium present Arts Space Echoes featuring Chloe Wood’s classical voice and violin. Come and enjoy live classical music in the gallery followed by a light morning tea.
CLASSICAL bass guitar, baritone guitar, standard guitar, treble guitar, and the occasional use of percussion instruments conspire to create a rich and beautiful ensemble sound. The repertoire that this group has chosen caters for a wide variety of musical tastes including music from the Irish stage production Riverdance by Bill Whelan to music from Bizet’s opera Carmen to contemporary Tango and Australian rock inspired compositions. When: Sunday, May 22 at 5pm Where: Arts Space Wodonga Cost: Presale $25, concession $22 or at the door $30 Bookings essential: The Cube Wodonga box office on (02) 6022 9311 or at thecubewodonga.com.au/tickets
THE CUBE WODONGA WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE OUR 2016 SEASON SPONSORS
FOR MORE INFORMATION facebook.com/ArtsSpaceWodonga
ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES
CITYLIFE 11
WHAT’S ON
MAY, 2016
WHATS ON Sunday
Monday 1
Closing the Gap on IT 12.15pm to 1.05pm, $5 per session
Tuesday
Wednesday
2 Self defence for women 3 Star Wars Day 6pm to 7.30pm, free 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 FCC Concession $65 per term BelgradeCC
Mother’s Day 8 Sunday Roast 11am to 2.30pm, Adults $30, children $20 BME Mothers Day Classic 10am, Sumsion Gardens
Lego Club 9 4pm to 5pm, ages 8 to 12, free WL Mosaic creations 9am to noon, $60, bookings essential FT
Mosaic creations 10 Community Impact 9am to noon, $60, bookings Grants deadline essential FCC Communities Connect 10am to 2pm Cube Courtyard Self defence for women 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 Concession $65 per term BelgradeCC
Film themes 15 and favourites 3pm, $25, concession $20, members $19, child $5, bookings required The Cube
Arts Space Echoes 16 10.15am, $8, bookings via The Cube ASW May Council meeting 6pm, Hovell St offices
WHATEVA! 17 By Gateway Health 6.30pm to 8.30pm, gold coin donation FCC Self defence for women 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 Concession $65 per term BelgradeCC
Cafe Culture Series 22 Lego Club 23 5pm, Presale $25, 4pm to 5pm, ages 8 to 12, concession $22 or at the free WL door $30, bookings via The Cube ASW Memory Walk and Jog 8.45am, Sumsion Gardens
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Thursday
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“Most Likely to Succeed” 18 Film screening 6.30pm, Adults $10, under 18 $5 The Cube
Tuning into Kids 24 National Simultaneous 6.30pm to 8.30pm, gold coin Storytime FCC 11am, free WL Self defence for women 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 Concession $65 per term BelgradeCC
Friday
Saturday
Art Buzz 6 10.30am to 11.30am ASW Tangibility/Abstraction 5.30pm, to May 28, free ASW Tech sessions in the library 10am to noon, free, bookings required WL BYG Nights! 5.30pm to 7.30pm, $10 BCC Craft ‘n’ Cuppa 12.30pm to 2.30pm, gold coin FCC
Tangibility/Abstraction 7 artist floor talk 10am, free ASW Petra Nicel Workshop 11.30am to 1.30pm, $10 per student ASW The Festival of Lights 6 to 8pm, free Cube Courtyard
Art Buzz 13 WL 10.30am to 11.30am ASW Community Cooking 12.30pm to 2.30pm, free FT FReeZA Push Start Comp applications close
Fungi Workshop 14 10.15am to 4.30pm, $80 BME Volunteers Fair 11.30am, free Cube Courtyard
4 Scrabble Club 5 WL 6pm to 9pm, free FT ECHO music program 4pm to 5pm, school aged children, $5 FT
25
Young Writers 4pm to 5pm, free
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Manga and Anime 19 5.30pm to 7.30pm, $4 for pizza WL Scrabble Club 6pm 6o 9pm, free FCC ECHO music program 4pm to 5pm, school aged children, $5 FCC
Art Buzz 20 5.30pm to 6.30pm WL Fusion youth event 5.30pm to 7.30pm, gold coin entry, 13 to 18 years FCC
Did you know you can 21 play table tennis at Junction Square for free? Bats and balls are located near the table.
Young Writers 26 4pm to 5pm, free, 10 to 15 years WL Biggest Morning Tea 10.30am to 11.30am, gold coin FT
Art Buzz 27 10.30am to 11.30am ASW RED Carpet nominations close
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Self defence for women 31 Movies That Matter – 1 ECHO music program 2 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 Linsanity 4pm to 5pm, school aged Concession $65 per term FT 6.30pm, free The Cube children, $5 BelgradeCC
Bushranger official 3 Bushranger artist talk 4 opening 10am, free ASW 5pm, until June 25, free ASW Tech Sessions in the Library – iPads/iPhones 10am to noon, free WL BYG Nights! 5.30pm to 7.30pm, $10 BCC
Lego Club 6 Self defence for women 7 Just Paint: Yes!!! 8 Young Writers 9 FReeZA Push Start 10 6.30pm to 7.30pm, $80 3.30pm to 4.30pm, $10 ASW 4pm to 5pm, free, 10 to 15 6pm, $5 The Cube 4pm to 5pm, ages 8 to 12, years WL free WL Concession $65 per term BelgradeCC
Did you know you can 12 use free exercise equipment at Belvoir Park, Felltimber Community Centre lake and along some walking paths in White Box Rise.
ASW - Arts Space Wodonga Cnr Lawrence and Hovell streets p: (02) 6022 9600 facebook.com/ ArtsSpaceWodonga Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm; Saturday 9am to 12pm. Open for programs as scheduled
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WL - Wodonga Library 126 Hovell St, Wodonga p: (02) 6022 9330 wodongalibrary.com.au facebook.com/ WodongaLibrary Open: Monday to Friday 10am to 5.30pm; Saturday 9am to 12pm. Open for programs as scheduled
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The Cube - The Cube Wodonga 118 Hovell St, Wodonga p: (02) 6022 9311 w: thecubewodonga.com.au facebook.com/ thecubewodonga Open: Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm; Saturday from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
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BCC - Baranduda Community Centre 3 Sage Crt, Baranduda p: (02) 6020 8643 facebook.com/BarandudaCC FT - Felltimber Community Centre 189 Melrose Drive p: (02) 6043 4550 facebook.com/FelltimberCC
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BME - Bonegilla Migrant Experience 82 Bonegilla Rd, Bonegilla p: (02) 6020 6912 bonegilla.org.au Open: 10am to 4pm daily
FULL LISTING OF EVENTS wodonga.vic.gov.au/whatson
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