A FIRE in October 2007 took away an important piece of Warrandyte history.
The Nilja homestead, located at the end of Alexander Road
The fire was reported at the time as arson, with Police stating they believe it was “deliberately lit”.
The property had been vacated and services disconnected after the land/home was sold to the State Government; at the time, the land was under Parks Victoria ownership.
A summary of the rich history of Nilja Homestead was published in the November 2007 Warrandyte Diary; this has been reproduced here.
The Nilja property was originally part of Longridge Farm at the end of Alexander Road, but was sold to Mr and Mrs Booth in 1919 as a separate title.
The name ‘Nilja’ is believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘blue hills’.
The Booth family arranged for a house, of weatherboard and corrugated iron construction, to be transported from Port Melbourne and installed on the Warrandyte site.
Nilja was originally used as a holiday home.
However, the Booths extended the house and eventually moved there permanently.
In 1948, Mr and Mrs Ruttledge bought the house and moved in with their daughters Olive and Dorothy on Boxing Day.
They had barely settled in when a neglected campfire ignited surrounding bush and threatened the house.
The Ruttledges put the fire out with the help of their neighbour, Albert Speers.
Eventually the property came into the sole ownership of Dorothy Ruttledge.
In 1973 she married Sir George Reid, and they lived at Nilja.
Sir George was MP for the state seat of Box Hill, which included Warrandyte (1955–73).
He was a member of the Bolte cabinet from 1955 to 1972.
As Attorney-General, he introduced legislation into Parliament that led to the setting up of the Victorian Ombudsman’s office.
Dorothy, now Lady Reid, continued her extensive involvement in community affairs.
She was a lay reader at St Stephen’s Anglican church, a member of the inter-church council, and a supporter of the Brotherhood of St Laurence.
Her other interests included the Warrandyte Arts Association and the Warrandyte Historical Society.
The Reids lived happily at Nilja until November 1988, when they moved to a smaller home in East Doncaster.
Sir George died in 1993 and Lady Reid the following year.
Nilja passed to the ownership of the Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works and later came under the administration of Parks Victoria.
The homestead stood on a natural fire path, but amazingly survived the bushfires of 1939, 1949, 1965 and 1969.
The 1965 fire burnt either side of the house, destroying outbuildings, but the house was left intact.
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In 2007, the house was lost, but its garden survived.
Following decades of neglect, Friends of Warrandyte State Park (FOWSP) took it on as a project, with volunteers determined to remove invasive weeds — such as agapanthus, which had not only completely filled the garden, but had also begun to invade the adjacent gullies —and eventually restore the garden.
With the support of a Lions Club of Warrandyte grant, FOWSP has been able to engage a contractor to advance weed control efforts and buy effective guards to protect the plantings from deer, rabbits, and the locally abundant kangaroos.
The garden has large shady trees — some native and some rare exotic species, plus a variety of old-fashioned flowers which bloom in succession.
With the homestead gone, the garden now stands as a marker of Warrandyte (and Melbourne’s) history.
As many who garden will know, just doing something once does not create a sustainable landscape; environmental projects often fail because of a lack of follow-up, but the Lions grant will allow FOWSP to continue to maintain the Nilja garden for the foreseeable future.
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
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THE FOOTAGE out of Nepal following the severe flash flooding on August 26 has shocked the world.
With mainstream media reporting 5000+ people still unaccounted for and, due to the region being a popular hiking area, includes a large number of foreign tourists, nearly a week on (at the time of writing), the story continues to feature prominently in national headlines.
While getting people into the area to help search for those still missing, financial support for those directly impacted is just as important.
Warrandyte resident Stephen Jenkinson has been particularly affected by the Nepal disaster.
In 2023, Stephen made local headlines when he rescued a blind dog from the Yarra River in Warrandyte as it was clinging to the bank.
However, Stephen’s background is in international disaster relief and after working in the town of Syafrubesi, Nepal, in 2011 and 2015, he was shocked to see the town wiped off the map in these recent floods, so he has joined the fundraising drive to help the people of Nepal.
Stephen’s work began in the region in 2009, when he was Country Director of The Umbrella Foundation Nepal — an Irish INGO caring for 325 children across eight children’s homes in Kathmandu.
Stephen spoke about this early work.
“With the help of the Child Welfare Board, Umbrella took children in from corrupt children’s homes or ‘orphanages’, took them into our care, and from there we would try to find and eventually reintegrate them with their families across Nepal.
As we had 59 children in our care from Rasuwa, we decided to move all of them to two temporary homes in Syafrubesi, to reconnect the children with their families.
The idea was for the homes to close after two or three years, but all children were returned to their villages within the first 12 months.
It was a big success.”
He said they needed to do regular checks once the children were reunited with their families, so he was often in the region.
“There are 12 villages in Rasuwa, and we had kids from all of them.
Despite it being a 12-hour drive, I would get to Rasuwa as much as I could.
I was lucky enough to visit much of Nepal, but Syafrubesi (the main town) was my favourite place.
It’s the only village that is at river level, and as it is steep on both sides of the valley, the river’s roar can be deafening.
But apart from the epic scenery, it was the Tamang people that made the place special.
The Tamang are an ethnic group indigenous to the Himalayas; they’re Buddhist and have their own language.”
Stephen was in Dublin in 2015 when the Nepal earthquake struck the region.
“I needed to get on a plane and thought it would be only people working in the humanitarian space that would be going, so I reached out to GOAL, Ireland’s leading humanitarian organisation.
We met in a busy Dublin bar that night.
I told them I knew the country pretty well, and they took a punt on me.
That was the interview.
We flew out the next day, and I worked for two years on the earthquake response.
Stephen said when arriving in Kathmandu in 2015, it was “chaos”.
“At the outset of a disaster, there is an influx of International NGO’s with enough money to last for a few weeks.
I noticed in the coordination meetings that we were attending, most were going to the easy-to-reach places, and of the 14 impacted districts, nobody was talking about Rasuwa.
I was sure there would be a big need there; I knew the district well, and from a selfish point of view, I wanted to make sure people I knew were alright.
We went there, the need was great, and we spent two years helping folks rebuild across all of Rasuwa.”
A decade later, the region Stephen has spent so much time doing humanitarian work is once again in the midst of a disaster.
This time, Stephen has set up a fundraising page through the Red Cross.
He says he knows people might be feeling disaster fatigue, but he also knows the people of Syafrubesi and the broader region need this support.
“My thinking is that the images we have all been seeing over the last week are so powerful that, for many, all you need to do is put a ‘donate’ button in front of us, make it easy, and most would be willing to give something.
I just want to remind people what has happened and make donating an easy decision.
Global disasters are on the rise, and all governments are reducing their foreign aid budgets.
The Buddhist people of the Himalayas live a peaceful existence.
They’ve played no part in climate change, and yet this has happened to them.”
While Stephen’s page has already exceeded his initial goal of $5,000, he says much more is needed, and every dollar helps.
Visit Stephens Page to donate to the appeal.
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
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WORTHY WINNER of the Community Excellence Award at this year’s Manningham Community Awards, The Lions Club of Warrandyte Op Shop provides an invaluable community service to the community of Warrandyte and the broader Manningham.
The Op Shop provides not only a way to save items from landfill and a place to purchase quality second-hand wares, but is also a drawcard for bargain-hunting tourists who seek out Warrandyte for its plethora of recycle and upcycle stores.
At the heart of the Lions Club of Warrandyte Opportunity Shop is a team of motivated volunteers that give their time selflessly in the service of the Manningham community.
The Op Shop and its dedicated volunteers fill a unique and integral role in Manningham: they support the Lions Club of Warrandyte to fund its charitable activities, all while providing a welcoming space for local residents and the wider community.
Lions Club Vice President Don Hughes told M&N Bulletin that in the past 12 months, 25 volunteers of all ages have accumulated over 3,500 volunteer hours — more than 140 hours each — enabling the Op Shop to increase its operating hours to seven days a week.
“This is a direct response to community demand and serves to illustrate the importance of the Op Shop in the community.
The extended hours ultimately helped generate over $135,000 in funding that has been distributed to community groups over the last year alone.”
However, the last 12 months is not an isolated achievement; Op Shop volunteers have supported the community continuously for over 50 years.
The core mission of Lions Op Shop volunteers is to support and empower the people of Manningham by generating critical funds for frontline community needs.
These funds directly support the wellbeing and development of the community.
Over the last 12 months the organisation has excelled in meeting this purpose.
Organisations that have benefitted come from across Manningham including:
sporting and arts clubs
educational organisations
disability and community advocacy groups
environmental groups
Some notable examples are:
Warrandyte Primary School — $21,000 for heritage building works and literacy
CareNet — $11,800 towards food relief programs
Doncaster All Abilities Basketball — $7,000 to assist people of all abilities to connect and participate in physical activity
Andersons Creek Primary School — $6,000 to deliver a road safety and cycling program
Warrandyte Historical Society — $4,400 to aid data collection and storage
Eastern Emergency Relief Network — $2,000 to provide emergency and crisis support
The Pettet Foundation— $2,000 to assist families and children requiring crisis support
Warrandyte Netball Club — $2,000 for uniforms and equipment to support youth participation in sport
The remaining funds were predominantly distributed to organisations that also service the local area.
Many smaller clubs and grassroots organisations have programs that, without this support, would otherwise remain wholly unfunded.
Don said the Lions Op Shop is an inclusive third space in Manningham and plays a vital role in community outreach.
“The shop is intentionally managed as a safe space where everybody is welcomed.
Many shoppers are locals who visit the store as a means of community connection and are treated as friends rather than customers.
The team is always ready to support their community with a kind word or sympathetic ear and are often at the frontline to recognise people in need of further assistance.
They provide this where possible, including information regarding wider support services when needed,” he said.
Overall, he said the volunteers at the Lions Op Shop serve with passion and consistency.
They directly contribute to the wellbeing, development, and cohesion of the Manningham community.
“Congratulations to the fantastic volunteers who dedicate their time to the Lions Op Shop,” said Don
For more than 50 years, the Warrandyte Diary has been a trusted source of independent news for the residents of Warrandyte. As a cornerstone of the community, this not-for-profit community newspaper is supported wholly through advertising from local businesses.
Building on this foundation, the Manningham & Nillumbik Bulletin is fast becoming the trusted source for news, editorials, and local businesses for the communities of Warrandyte, North Warrandyte, South Warrandyte, Park Orchards, Research, Wonga Park, Eltham, Donvale, Doncaster, Templestowe, Lower Templestowe, Kangaroo Ground, Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek, Wattle Glen, Warranwood, St Andrews, North Ringwood, East Doncaster, Christmas Hills, Bulleen, Arthurs Creek, Smiths Gully, and Greensborough.
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Pictured: Natalie Rinehart with her therapy dog Kai
THE FEDERAL Government is currently considering the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026, which, if passed, will come into effect in stages over the next two years.
The Government says the changes will protect the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for people with permanent and significant disability, and for future generations who will rely on it.
A statement from the Minister for the NDIS, Mark Butler, said over the past 13 years, the NDIS has become an entrenched and beloved national institution.
“It has changed lives — and changed our country — for the better.
However, costs are continuing to rise rapidly, participants are too often not getting quality supports, and the NDIS has become a target for ‘shonks’ and fraudsters.”
Mr Butler said the changes are designed to address two issues.
Firstly, the NDIS is currently growing at a rate that was unforeseen when it was established in 2013.
He said that if left unchecked, this would put the long-term sustainability of the NDIS at risk.
“These reforms are about saving the NDIS itself.
Because if we act now, we can safeguard and strengthen it, so that it serves the Australians it was created to help.”
Secondly, he says over time the NDIS has become the target for fraudulent activity, impacting the scheme as a whole.
Fraud has a direct and devastating impact on the lives of participants and their families, leading to lower quality services, exploitation, and harm.
These changes see reforms into who can receive NDIS funding, and how their needs are assessed and re-assessed, and removes the ability to roll unspent funds into the next funding cycle.
The changes also determine who can provide services under the scheme, adds caps to some categories of claims, allows funding for some categories of services to be reduced across the board, and allows for streamlined administrative measures, such as having AI assess claims.
Concerns about changes to the scheme
Recent Treasury modelling revealed more than 240,000 people will be forced to exit the scheme over the next four years as part of the plan to cut spending by $35 billion over a decade.
Meanwhile, a Senate inquiry has heard concerns from across the disability sector after receiving more than 4,000 public submissions in just over a fortnight, including a submission from the state and territory governments who say they will be forced to pick up the pieces for those who fall through the widened cracks.
The States’ submission said, “significant projected participant exits” by 2031 have not been “accompanied by clearly defined alternative supports”, and that all jurisdictions shared “a collective responsibility” for the sustainability of the NDIS.
“The pace of reform — focused heavily on expenditure constraint, without a clearly defined broader ecosystem and with limited consultation — creates a significant risk of fragmented service delivery.
There is a significant risk that people with disability will end up in hospitals or other settings that are inappropriate and unable to meet their needs, or have no access to services at all,”
the submission said.
The inquiry has been extended until August 14.
Mr Butler appeared recently on the ABC’s Insiders program and was asked whether people would die as a result of the bill.
The Minister’s response: “No, they won’t.”
Yet it is understood deaths have already taken place because of cutbacks to support that will only worsen dramatically as hundreds of thousands of disabled people are thrown off the scheme.
The Senate inquiry was told about the case of “Lee”, an NDIS participant who died after her 24-hour care was reduced to just eight hours.
Warrandyte-based counsellor Natalie Rinehart told the Diary she believed there will “undoubtedly” be deaths due to these changes.
“When vulnerable young people lose access to the providers who have helped them navigate a world that was never designed with them in mind, there will be consequences.
Some of those consequences will be devastating”.
Ms Rinehart is a counsellor who works primarily with neurodivergent young people, with around a quarter of her clients receiving NDIS funding.
She says these changes are a blunt instrument being used in a delicate environment.
“The NDIS was built on the principle of ‘Choice and Control.’
Today, that promise feels hollow.
It has become: ‘fit your disability into this small administrative box and receive support in the prescribed way’.
It tells disabled people that they don’t get to decide who understands them, who has earned their trust, or who helps them build a meaningful life.
Quite frankly, I find that offensive.”
Ms Rinehart said over the years she has watched extraordinary young people do extraordinary things.
“I’ve seen them recover from burnout, return to school, find employment, make friends, experience their first healthy relationship, discover hobbies, develop confidence, and find a sense of identity, purpose, and belonging.
These are not small achievements.
They are life-changing.”
She said the tragedy is that the NDIS is now removing the very supports that made those outcomes possible.
NDIS clients are also in constant fear that if for some reason they are out of touch when the NDIS comes calling, they are at risk of being cut off.
One of Ms Rineheart’s NDIS clients shared her story about the NDIS attempting to contact her on a “long dead” email address, with no communications logged in her MyGov mailbox, and with only one attempt at a phone call, which rang out as she was trying to get to the phone.
“They never rang back, and now I have been given a $1 plan.”
For her, this means no help showering, no maintenance of her wheelchair, no support for shopping, or toileting.
She said there was no follow-up, no consultation, just a $1 plan.
Many of the changes have been prompted by widespread fraud in the system, which some say points to a lack of oversight by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), which manages the scheme.
However, measures put in place to control fraud are having unintended consequences for legitimate providers who may not fit neatly into the NDIS box.
The changes also mean that someone like Natalie, who is a highly respected counsellor working with vulnerable teenagers, is being stripped of the ability to work with NDIS clients, because her practice does not fit within the NDIS’ parameters, and she cannot afford the $15,000 it will cost to be registered as an NDIS provider — “Because I am a counsellor, not a psychologist”.
“I could get my master’s in counselling, but why would I do that?
I have got a firing practice where only 25 per cent of my clients are on the NDIS, with a waitlist of over 50 people.
So, this is not about me as a financial commodity; it is about taking care of these young people, because sometimes, coming to see me (and my therapy dog) each week is the only reason they leave the house.
I have people coming from as far away as Frankston or Docklands.
I have people coming from a long way away because they have heard I do things differently and that it works.”
Ms Rinehart said one of her clients, with complex needs and an NDIS plan, was recently told by the NDIA they would no longer fund her treatment with Ms Rinehart because she is not registered as a provider under the Scheme.
“This is someone I have been working with for about three years.
When I first started seeing her, she was in complete meltdown, unable to study or work, and now she has her first job in the education sector.
But then she gets this call from the NDIS who says, ‘you can’t see Nat anymore’, and she said ‘but Nat is the one who has helped me the most’.
She said all the stress in her life is because the NDIS texts her to say, ‘we will call you sometime this week, and you had better take the call’.
So now she has decided to step back from the NDIS and get out because it is just too traumatic.
That is the part I cannot reconcile.
How am I supposed to sit in front of these families and explain that this is fair?
How do I tell them this is reasonable or proportionate?
Because from where I sit, supporting these young people every single day, it is none of those things.”
AS THE DEBATE continues over the appropriateness and legality of e-mobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters, the Federal Government has announced it has instructed the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) to develop a new nationally consistent mandatory safety standard.
This builds on an earlier decision by the Australian Transport Minister to adopt the international safety standard EN 15194 — this states that road-legal e-bikes must:
Have a motor which is activated by pedalling
Have a maximum speed of 25km/h when under power
Only provide a maximum of 250W of continuous power
Currently, there are inconsistencies between the States and Territories regarding what constitutes a road-legal e-bike.
For example, in Victoria, “road-legal” is defined by the 250W EN 15194 standard, but in New South Wales (NSW), road-legal bikes — while still limited to 25km/h and requiring pedal assistance to drive the motor — can have a motor with a 500W output.
However, NSW riders now have until March 1, 2029, to modify or replace their e-bikes to conform to the new 250W standard.
While the ACCC’s new safety standards will apply to all e-mobility devices, the initial phase focuses on e-bikes.
The announcement to develop this new national standard was made by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King MP, and Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh MP on August 6.
“The Albanese Government is continuing to take important steps on cracking down on unsafe and illegal e-rideables on our roads and in our communities,” said Ms King.
This standard will give Australians the confidence that the products being sold are legal, fit for purpose, and will help keep Australians safe.”
This commitment comes after Commonwealth, State, and Territory Consumer Affairs Ministers met on Thursday, July 30, to discuss work being progressed to ensure consumer protections remain fit for purpose in a modern and changing economy.
This includes:
Recognising the Government’s new laws banning unfair trading practices, including subscription traps and drip pricing, from July 1, 2027, and ongoing consideration of reforms to extend these protections to small businesses and franchisees.
A $6.6 million investment to strengthen Australia’s product safety framework, including stronger reporting requirements, more effective recalls, tougher penalties, and mandatory safety obligations for online marketplaces, while laying the groundwork for broader product safety reforms.
Advancing reforms to strengthen consumer guarantees and supplier indemnification arrangements, including the introduction of civil penalties.
Continuing implementation of the Scam Prevention Framework to better protect Australians from scams and online fraud.
Exploring additional measures to improve consumer protections in the digital economy, and address emerging risks from new technologies and online marketplaces.
Mr Leigh said “As more Australians choose e-bikes, it’s important that consumers can have confidence in the safety of the products they buy.
“Nationally consistent standards will provide clearer expectations for manufacturers, retailers and consumers alike.”
As the Diary has previously reported, local e-bike conversion business owner Rebecca Lee (RevBecca) of Rev Bikes has been campaigning to overturn the blanket ban on non-factory conversion e-bikes on Victorian trains.
The ban on non-factory e-bikes on Victorian trains is determined by whether the battery is inside or outside the frame.
The ban was introduced following a series of fires on trains caused by lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes.
The Victorian Transport ban broadly identifies that if the battery is incorporated into the frame, then it must meet the required safety standards and will not pose a fire risk.
However, RevBecca has previously pointed out (Freedom Ride, Warrandyte Diary, June 2026) that this penalises e-bike conversion consumers and those with disabilities who have had a custom-converted e-bike or trike made safely by a legitimate business, such as Rev Bikes.
Following the Federal Government’s announcement about the new national standard, the Diary contacted RevBecca for comment.
“Again, they are trying to make something which is already illegal be even more illegal, in the delusional hope that might stop the bad behaviour. People who are already breaking the (overly conservative) laws are not likely to stop unless these things are being policed and removed from the streets. We welcome some regulation in the space and would love to see the rogue traders brought to account. Personally, I don’t understand why the Federal Government doesn’t use its powers to block online traders such as AliExpress, eBay, and Amazon from selling high-powered e-bike conversion kits and unregulated lithium batteries into Australia. Or close down/fine/shame the businesses that are focusing on this local market. I do wonder whether conversion kits are going to be banned altogether, another blanket ban like that of carriage on trains.”
RevBecca also expressed concern about the selling of motors greater than 250W as EN 15194 only applies to road-legal bikes, and you can legally ride a bike that exceeds these standards if doing so on private property.
She also flagged concerns about the disability sector, as she has built e-bike and e-trike conversions to assist those with mobility issues.
RevBecca hopes the new standards allow for a level of certification to allow conversion kits to remain a legal option.
“As a business that operates at a high standard in this industry, we are frustrated by the lack of distinction between professional installations of conversion kits. We would love to be able to certify our batteries to some standard (which Victoria still hasn’t decided upon) and then be classed as safe, as we know our batteries are, and to be able to provide higher speeds for commuters and more power for heavy/disabled people, but the law is lagging behind in Australia.”
She said in Europe there are additional protocols for “Speed Pedelecs” (maximum speed of 45km/h but needs licensing) and Cargo categories allowing for a beefier motor for transporting cargo weighing up to 450kg.
She said Bicycle Industries Australia had previously tried to raise the e-bike limits to 500W and up to 32km/h, “but unfortunately all these 3,000W crazy-machines have ruined the chances of that for everyone”.
“The conversation which needs to be had is about finding the right balance between encouraging uptake, maximising safety (for riders and the community), appropriate motor power levels for different scenarios, and speed limits in different environments.
We need some solutions which are not just the ‘easiest fix’ but will require some regulations, such as licensing or registering vehicles and riders.”
Warrandyte is not isolated from the e-bike debate, and over-powered and dangerously ridden e-bikes and e-motos are becoming increasingly frequent.
The Diary wants to know: will these new mandatory regulations provide consumers with the knowledge and assurance that what they are purchasing is safe and road-legal, or — as RevBecca says — do they only compound the issue for road-legal conversions?
Send your thoughts to editor@warrandytediary.com.au.
THE SECOND tunnel boring machine, Gillian, has achieved a successful breakthrough in Bulleen, marking excavation as complete for the North East Link (NEL) twin tunnels.
Now that both machines have broken through, crews will now begin the massive task of tunnel fit out — preparing the tunnels for traffic in 2028.
Above ground the construction continues, Big Build crews are:
completing overhead gantry signage, drainage works, and driveway construction on Manningham Road, Bulleen Road, and Banksia Street
progressing works on the Yarra Link green bridge walls, southern ventilation structure, and tunnel entrance
continuing to build the Motorway Control Centre which will monitor traffic conditions to help the tunnel operate smoothly.
Meanwhile, Big Build says the recent works on Manningham Road, Bulleen Road, and Banksia Street are now complete and the road has reopened.
“We thank the community for your patience as we completed these critical works to support the ongoing construction of the Manningham Road interchange,” said a statement from Big Build.
Eastern Freeway Upgrades
Eastern Freeway upgrades are continuing with new traffic management technology, express lanes, walking and cycling connections, Melbourne’s first dedicated busway, and a connection to the North East Link tunnels.
Over the last month Big Build has:
finalised the Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) for the Hoddle Street to Burke Road section of the Eastern Freeway
started to build foundations for the busway bridge near Burke Road
installed more than 109 of the 188 beams used to support the elevated ramps connecting the Eastern Freeway to the North East Link tunnels
finished installing beams for the Ringwood-side of the Doncaster Road bridge that will form part of the new upgraded Doncaster Road interchange
installed the roofs for both pavilions as part of the Bulleen Park Sport Upgrade
continued building the new walking and cycling bridge at the Bulleen interchange
continued building the Doncaster Park & Ride multi-level carpark structure out of the ground
built piers that will form the new elevated Middleborough Road citybound entry ramp
built the foundations of the new walking and cycling bridge over the freeway between Tram and Middleborough roads
installed new drainage under the freeway
opened a temporary bridge over Koonung Creek in Eram Park, Doncaster, to maintain walking and cycling connections over the freeway.
In the coming months crews will:
begin to build foundations for the new walking and cycling bridge over the Yarra River near Yarra Bend Park
demolish the temporary Doncaster Road Ringwood-bound entry ramp
start to build the southern bus platform at Bulleen Park & Ride
continue works to realign a section of the Koonung Creek in Eram Park
continue works to widen the Blackburn Road citybound entry ramp and build the foundations for new noise walls
install new underground drainage and cables for smart traffic technology under the freeway.
Upcoming disruptions
Eastern Freeway weekend closure
The Eastern Freeway will be closed in both directions between Bulleen Road and Springvale Road from 10pm, Friday, August 14, to 5am, Monday, August 17.
Detours in place via:
Bulleen Road, Templestowe Road, Reynolds Road, and Springvale Road
Bulleen Road, Manningham Road, Doncaster Road, and Springvale Road
Springvale Road, Maroondah Highway, and Burke Road (citybound only).
Delays of up to 90 minutes are expected and motorists are encouraged to avoid the area.
Thompsons Road closure
From 10pm, Friday, August 14, until mid-September, Thompsons Road will be closed in both directions between Bulleen Road and the Thompsons Road Ringwood-bound entry ramp.
Detours in place:
northbound traffic via Bulleen Road, Manningham Road, and Thompsons Road
A NEW emergency alert system is being rolled out across Australia, however, support groups and charities advocating for those impacted by domestic violence (DV) are concerned the national test may adversely impact those living with a violent partner.
Ahead of its planned activation on October 1, a national test of the AusAlert system will take place on Monday, July 27, at 2pm AEST.
The system is designed to notify people in a specific area about a developing emergency using a Cell Broadcast transmission method, which sends the alert to any compatible mobile phone, tablet, or smartwatch within range of a specific cell tower.
Compatible devices will receive a text alert accompanied by a long, high-pitched notification tone.
The national test will be testing the Critical Alert system, which can only be overridden if your device is switched off or in aeroplane mode.
DV advocate groups, such as DVConnect are advising that for the national test, those with safe phones should:
Put your device on aeroplane mode or turn it off completely, at least an hour before the event.
Leave it off for the duration of the test, and for at least 24 hours afterwards.
The new AusAlert system will be one more way to stay informed about an emergency situation in your area, but as DVConnect states — safety planning will become more complicated.
“There are different ways you can opt out of receiving priority alerts.
However, it is not possible to opt out of critical alerts.
The only way to avoid receiving critical alerts is to have your phone turned off or in aeroplane mode.
This may not be practical for everyone.
You should take steps to update your own individual safety plan to keep you and your family safe.
Some options could include:
Keeping your safe phone in a location where a person using violence does not know about it, such as your workplace or a neighbours house.
Keeping your safe phone permanently turned off and only turning it on when you are in an active emergency situation, or a person using violence is not in the house.
Using a device that isn’t compatible with AusAlerts.An old basic phone (one that can call and text, but doesn’t use a full operating system) may be an option.
You will need to check if the specific operating system is eligible to receive AusAlerts.
Apple iPads also won’t receive AusAlerts.
Remember to check all your devices to ensure they are in line with your safety plan.
This includes phones, but also other smart devices such as tablets and watches.”
If you are impacted by Domestic Violence and need support, you can contact the National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or visit the website 1800respect.org.au.
MANNINGHAM Council has begun upgrading the steps and fencing at the bus stop in front of the Warrandyte RSL, and along the stone footpath above it.
Council has received a number of complaints from the RSL committee and neighbouring residents about the safety of the path in front of the Memorial Gardens and the stairs to the bus stop.
While the stone steps and footpath have significant local heritage value, they can be difficult to walk on due to the way they are constructed.
Safety concerns regarding the steps have also affected the annual Anzac Day March, with some veterans opting to peel off at Mitchell Avenue to enter from Brackenbury Street.
Council was keen to get the works started before the end of the financial year and engaged local firm Habitat Construction & Development to complete the works.
When the Diary visited the site, Habitat had already begun constructing the post and wire fence, which complements the existing fence along the south side of Yarra Street from the Mechanics’ Institute.
Jennifer Bryant from Warrandyte Returned & Services League Sub Branch said Warrandyte RSL is relieved to hear that the Council is undertaking the necessary repairs to the steps and fencing.
“The very high step near the upper path access is clearly dangerous for small children and elderly adults, and we assume the steps will be rectified to a uniform step-up height consistent with building regulations for public stairs.
“Hopefully they will re-use as much of the Historical stone in the current steps as possible.”
A spokesperson from Habitat said the firm is consulting with local stonemason James Charlwood to ensure the stairs are completed using materials that are in line with the existing stonework.
Mr Charlwood told the Diary he has spoken to both Chris Spring from Habitat and the project manager from Manningham Council, who he said were both very receptive to his input.
“And I am just doing all I can at the moment to help Chris source some local rock.”
He said he knows that Bev Hanson has some beautiful rocks on her property and, following the interview, was able to procure enough local stone from the Hanson’s for the project.
“I don’t see a more important opportunity than those steps right there; it really is at the heart of the community.”
“They literally just smashed up the old stonework at the bottom of the steps with an excavator.”
He said that good design will not only make the area safer, but using materials and design that are in sympathy with the existing infrastructure will greatly assist with maintaining a Warrandyte aesthetic.
Complainants also noted that the existing post and rail fence along the pathway was too far from the path, and the grab rails did not encompass the whole stairway.
Ms Bryant said the inclusion of a metal grab rail the full length of the current steps will assist in addressing the RSL’s safety concerns.
“At present, the metal rail is only present for approximately two-thirds of the height of the steps, finishing before the current largest step.
“A rail along the length of the steps will greatly improve the safety of the access.”
Ms Bryant said the replacement of the current fence along the lower edge of the path in line with the neighbouring path along the upper pathway made from timber, rail, and wire, placed closer to the edge of the stone pathway in front of the RSL Memorial Gardens, will also improve the safety of the area for local foot traffic.
WARRANDYTE’S long tradition of stepping up for one another is entering a new chapter, with local organisations joining forces to make volunteering easier, more welcoming, and more accessible for everyone.
Many community groups across Warrandyte, schools, sporting clubs, environmental groups, arts organisations, neighbourhood houses, service clubs, and emergency services have all been feeling similar pressures in recent years: fewer volunteers and increasing reliance on the same group of dedicated people.
To help address this, the newly formed Warrandyte Volunteer Alliance (WaVA) has brought together 25 of those local community organisations to explore a coordinated, community-wide approach to volunteering.
At the heart of this work is the idea of a central Warrandyte Volunteer Register, a simple way for residents to express interest in hearing about volunteer opportunities without any obligation or expectation that they need to sign up.
The register will be designed to make it easy for people to check out volunteering in small, manageable ways that fit their interests and availability.
The need for this initiative has become increasingly clear.
Many local groups are stretched thin, while many residents say they would volunteer if opportunities were more visible or felt more flexible.
The campaign aims to bridge that gap by making opportunities more available and easier to connect to through supporting groups to reach new people in a coordinated way.
The WaVA Working Group will meet shortly to finalise the campaign plan, with the intention of launching the Volunteer Register and the broader campaign soon after.
The group is committed to ensuring the approach reflects the diversity and strengths of Warrandyte’s volunteer community and supports both long-standing organisations and new volunteers alike.
The hope is that the campaign will spark a renewed wave of community involvement and one that honours Warrandyte’s long-held spirit of pitching in and looking out for our community.
A NEW PROJECT to create a walking track between Port Phillip Bay and the Upper Yarra Reservoir has reached a major milestone with relevant parties and authorities having agreed on the alignment of the Birrarung Valley Walk (BVW), which will follow the river, across public land for the 220 kilometres between Williamstown and McMahons Creek.
At the announcement on June 15, Birrarung Valley Walk Inc. Chair, Bruce Parncutt AO, explained the journey to get to this point.
“In September 2017, something remarkable happened in the Victorian Parliament.
Six Wurundjeri Elders entered the chamber and spoke in their traditional language in support of a bill.
It was the first time in Victoria’s history that Traditional Custodians had been given a legally mandated voice in river management.
And the first time a river in this country had been given ‘living entity’ status.
The Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act became law.
Australia’s first legislation co-titled in a Traditional Owner language.
Wilip-gin Birrarung murron. Keep Birrarung alive.
The Act declared the Yarra River a single, living, and integrated natural entity.
Not a drainage asset.
Not a recreational amenity.
But a living entity protected from source to sea.
It established the Birrarung Council as the independent statutory voice of the river and called for the preparation of a Yarra River Strategic Plan.
The resulting Plan calls for ways for ordinary Victorians to experience their river, for ways to understand how important the river is and what it provides for each of us.
The proposed Birrarung Valley Walk responds to that call, as a way for Victorians and our visitors to engage with the whole river.”
The walk is designed to be covered over 13 days and will be supported by an app which will provide cultural context to walkers as they move through the landscape.
The walk is expected to be officially open in 2029.
At present, 80 per cent (177km) of the route is on existing trails with public access.
Of the remaining 20 per cent, 4.7km (two per cent) is on an informal track and requires formalisation, 23.1km (11 per cent) requires access permissions to be obtained, and 14.7km (seven per cent) is to be constructed as part of the Yarra Valley Rail Trail.
The Yarra Valley Rail Trail, which aims to provide a trail connecting Lilydale, Yarra Glen, Healesville, and Woori Yallock, is currently constructing Stage 2a, which is advancing towards Yarra Glen.
The Eastern Transport Coalition, which includes Manningham and Yarra Ranges Councils, is asking the State Government for $24 million as part of its election advocacy to fund the building of Stages 2b and 3 of the Yarra Valley Rail Trail, which includes sections BVW is looking to utilise.
Local impact
The Warrandyte section of the BVW will follow the existing, established trails and roads between the trail diversion at Beasleys Nursery (now Kuranga Warrandyte) and Mount Lofty, near Wonga Park.
Of note on the agreed alignment is that BVW does not use the proposed Main Yarra Trail link Manningham Council is looking to build between Pound Road and Taroona Avenue, but instead diverts along Pound Road, to The Pound, before following the Yarra River along Everard Drive and then onto the Warrandyte River Trail.
On the other side of Warrandyte, the trail uses established informal tracks along the river corridor between Stan Brae and Mount Lofty.
The Diary asked Manningham Council about any potential planning issues regarding the BVW through the Warrandyte area and whether it would have any impact on the proposed extension of the Main Yarra Trail along Heidelberg Road, between Pound Road and Taroona Avenue.
A Council spokesperson told the Diary:
“Manningham Council is proud to partner with Birrarung Valley Walk to deliver this meaningful project, which is grounded in respect for Traditional Owners and a commitment to caring for the Birrarung as one connected system.
We’ve helped design the route, which primarily uses existing public land and infrastructure.
We maintain much of the existing path network that will be utilised for the Birrarung Valley Walk.”
At this stage, Council says it does not expect any planning issues relating to the BVW and has indicated that a shared path along Heidelberg-Warrandyte Road between Pound Road and Taroona Avenue is separate to the BVW project and subject to further community engagement and planning approvals.
A long way to go
This project is still in its early stages, and it is unclear what impact it will have on local infrastructure or the view that everyday Victorians have about the Birrarung/Yarra River.
At the announcement, Mr Parncutt shared a dream he has about the future.
“In the not-too-distant future, a grandmother will lace up her boots at Williamstown Beach, on a clear autumn morning, and begin walking upstream.
She’ll walk for 13 days, listening to the river’s stories through the Birrarung Valley Walk app.
Stories of the river, its lands, its peoples, and how the river influences our city in so many ways.
On the final day, she’ll stand beside the Upper Yarra Reservoir, and she’ll understand — in her body and in her bones — what this river is.
Where it comes from.
What it carries.
Her children and grandchildren will take the same journey.
And their children after that.
Gradually, generations of Melburnians will know Birrarung and its lands.
The Walk will carry First Nations language and knowledge into the world.
The knowledge of the songlines, the seasonal lore, the names of plants, waterways, and cultural sites along the river’s corridor.
It will offer this knowledge to every person who walks part, or all, of the trail through the digital platform we’ll build.
For the first time, Melburnians will begin to truly understand their city’s primary life source.
Every walker who comes to know and love Birrarung will become an advocate for it — a volunteer custodian.
This passive surveillance by a community that cares will add thousands of hours of stewardship to the great work already being done by our land managers.
The river’s corridor is one of the most biodiverse linear landscapes in south-eastern Australia and the Walk will make it even more alive over time.
Birrarung in 2050 will be healthier than today.”
The Diary will continue to provide updates as this project progresses.
A NEW emergency alert system is being rolled out across Australia.
The system is designed to notify people in a specific area about a developing emergency using a Cell Broadcast transmission method, which sends the alert to any compatible mobile phone, tablet, or smartwatch within range of a specific cell tower.
The new national mobile alert system was due to launch in 2024, but has been delayed due to the project’s complexity, and has cost the Federal Government around $132 million.
Following localised testing in June, a nationwide test of the new AusAlert system will take place on Monday, July 27, at 2pm AEST.
At that time, an alert will be sent to every mobile device in Australia; those receiving it will hear a long, high-pitched tone, and a text message test alert will appear on their device.
If you do not receive the test alert, your device may not be compatible or connected to a cell tower at the time.
Community members are advised to make sure their devices have the latest firmware updates ahead of the test.
The AusAlert system is expected to launch on October 1, 2026, and will alert you if there is a nearby disaster such as bushfire or flood, if there is a medical alert in the area, or other important emergency alerts.
The system is expected to work with the following devices:
iPhones 11 and up running iOS 26.4 or later
Apple Watch SE2, SE3, Series 6 and up running watchOS 26.4 or later
Android devices running Android 12 or later.
Older Android phones and phones that don’t use iOS or Android might still receive AusAlerts.
Apple iPads won’t receive AusAlerts.
As with other emergency alerts, AusAlerts will become another source of information in an emergency and should not be seen as a replacement for your current emergency sources or the VicEmergency app.
A DEDICATED children’s emergency department (ED) at Maroondah Hospital will begin construction in 2027.
A joint project between the State and Federal Governments, the $20 million investment will allow for more specialised paediatric emergency care in the outer eastern suburbs.
The Victorian Minister for Health Infrastructure, Melissa Horne, said she knows taking your kids to the ED can be scary.
“Which is why we are making it easier for families in the outer east to get the emergency care they need.”
Early works are already underway to relocate the current emergency department administration area.
A specialist team is developing the design to create a space on the hospital’s ground floor where children can be triaged separately.
“As more young families choose to call Melbourne’s east home, we are investing in a new children’s emergency department to look after our kids when they need it most,” said Matt Gregg MP, Federal Member for Deakin.
The new children’s ED at Maroondah is part of a $102.4M program to build new children’s emergency departments across Victoria.
Other hospitals in the program are:
Northern Hospital in Epping
Frankston Hospital
Casey Hospital in Berwick
University Hospital Geelong.
Hospitals can often be a daunting place for children, and the new ED will be specifically designed to provide a dedicated, calming space for families.
“This investment means families in Melbourne’s outer east can get their kids the specialised emergency care they need, closer to home,”
said Member for North Eastern Region Sonja Terpstra.
For a number of years, the community has been calling for better specialised paediatric care in Melbourne’s suburban hospitals, with some taking the matter into their own hands.
The Mountain to Melbourne charity ultramarathon was set up to specifically raise funds for paediatric care and support for Eastern Health Hospitals.
Event founder and ultrarunner Emma-Rose Parsons told the Bulletin she welcomed the announcement of a dedicated Children’s Emergency Department at Maroondah Hospital.
“We recognise the significant impact that accessible, child-centred healthcare can have during times of crisis.
For many children, particularly those who are neurodivergent, disabled, anxious or experiencing sensory sensitivities, emergency departments can be overwhelming environments.
The inclusion of dedicated paediatric spaces, separate triage areas, and low-stimulation design features represents an important step in supporting our local kids, in local hospitals.”
Ms Parsons added that community fundraising continues to play an important role in enhancing services, supporting families, and helping ensure that children receive the care they need when they need it most. Mountain to Melbourne returns in October 2026, raising funds to support kids receiving paediatric care at Eastern Health hospitals.
AS PART OF its Community Outreach program, RSPCA Victoria offers low-cost pet vaccination and health clinics in the community.
For only $69, you can get your dog or cat vaccinated at a community clinic, have them checked by one of RSPCA’s experienced veterinarians, and receive professional advice on how to keep them healthy now and into the future.
Following successful clinics in April and May, RSPCA Victoria will be back at Warrandyte Scout Hall in June and July for another round.
The low-fee model is designed to remove barriers for pet owners to access routine vet care, especially at a time when cost-of-living pressures are high.
RSPCA Victoria says keeping animals healthy in their homes is one of the best ways to support animal welfare overall — and every visit also helps the organisation continue its work with vulnerable animals across Victoria.
The central location of the Scout Hall made it an ideal spot for the team to base themselves in Warrandyte.
The Scouts provided the hall free of charge to RSPCA Victoria as part of its commitment to community service in Warrandyte.
On June 16, the RSPCA will run a cat clinic at the Hall, offering health checks and advice, and F3 vaccinations.
On July 14, they will run a dog clinic, offering health checks and advice, and C5 vaccinations.
To access this important program, you must book an appointment online atrspcavic.org/petclinics.
MANNINGHAM Council says it will continue to work with Warrandyte Scouts on options to keep them in their hall, following strong feedback on the draft Warrandyte Community Facilities Review.
Valuable community input has directly shaped this outcome and other focus areas outlined in the Consultation Outcomes Report, presented at the Council meeting on Tuesday, May 26.
Yarra Ward Councillor Carli Lange spoke to the motion to note the report at the Council meeting, acknowledging that the feedback received was “critical” of the review.
“It was also thoughtful, detailed, and deeply invested in the future of Warrandyte facilities.
“The level of engagement was high, and it showed how much our residents really value the community infrastructure that they pay for.”
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said Council would now continue to partner with the community on agreed focus areas rather than proceeding with the report as a single overarching plan.
“We received 38 detailed submissions during the consultation process, as well as a petition of 1,611 signatures regarding the Warrandyte Scout Hall.”
Community groups that made submissions include:
Warrandyte Scouts
Warrandyte Men’s Shed
Warrandyte Neighbourhood House Board
Warrandyte Historical Society
The Rotary Club of Warrandyte
The Rotary Club of Warrandyte, on behalf of 14 community organisations
Warrandyte Community Association
Warrandyte Tennis Club
Warrandyte Childcare and Preschool Cooperative
Now and Not Yet Café
Warrandyte Basketball Association
Warrandyte Toy Library
Warrandyte Seniors
Warrandyte Sporting Group
Warrandyte Tennis Club
No Lights No Lycra
Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute and Arts Association
The report noted several common themes that emerged from the feedback.
Historical Museum: Support for the Museum to remain in its current location (12 respondents) due to the profile and significance of the existing building, and for Council to work with the Warrandyte Historical Society to enhance the existing facility.
In response to the feedback, Council acknowledged the “deep connection” to the old post office.
It says it will work with the Historical Society to retain the existing building and explore opportunities to progressively upgrade the building to meet the needs of the Historical Society within the constraints of the site and budget availability.
Warrandyte Museum/Old Post Office
Early Years Infrastructure: There was mixed feedback about relocating Warrandyte Kindergarten to a local school site (six respondents opposed and three supportive) and general support for relocating the childcare service to a new site, due to the limitations associated with the existing facility and site (five respondents in support).
Council acknowledged the constraints of the current facilities and the need to provide further clarity on existing and proposed facilities, stating in the report:
“We will continue discussions with early years services, local schools, and the State Government, to further explore all available options.
Engagement with families and the broader community will also be undertaken prior to any major works being undertaken.”
Warrandyte Kindergarten
Scouts Hall: Support for the Warrandyte Scout Group remaining in their current location (seven of nine respondents), and questions raised about upgrading the existing Scout Hall.
Council said it is supportive of the Warrandyte Scouts’ preference to remain in their current Hall and will work with stakeholders to re-examine opportunities to upgrade the existing facility within planning constraints and investigate options to address long-term needs.
Men’s Shed: Support for a dedicated Men’s Shed space in Warrandyte due to the significant benefits they provide to the community (eight respondents).
Council responded to say it will continue to work collaboratively with the Warrandyte Men’s Shed to investigate suitable facility options.
Pending further discussions, Council proposed to explore the feasibility of expanding the Warrandyte Community Hall and re-examining other previously discounted Council-owned sites.
Sporting Facilities: General support for continued growth and enhancement of sport and recreation activities, without overdeveloping sites or co-locating non-compatible groups.
More information sought on proposed improvements and capital projects.
Council noted that challenges exist in relation to planning controls, specifically relating to flood inundation around the tennis facility.
This constrains the ability to expand the tennis pavilion; however, Council says it is committed to re-examining potential improvements to the facility and advocating for viable solutions in collaboration with the club.
Colman Park: More direction and detail sought on the future of specific facilities and services at Colman Park, including proposed capital improvements.
Council said any proposed facility upgrades or works at the Reserve will involve further consultation with relevant stakeholders and users.
Colman Pavilion
Community Centre: Respondents value the centre’s flexibility, functionality, and identity, whilst noting the potential for some improvements, including access and wayfinding.
The suggested “improvement” to the physical connection between the Community Centre and Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute & Arts Association is seen as unnecessary and unjustified.
Consultation process: Community concerns raised about the consultation process included a lack of detail in the draft report, a lack of consideration of previous consultation findings, and that information provided by community representatives and some groups was excluded or not referenced, particularly noted was the lack of consideration for older residents.
Respondents also noted that the community consultation process failed to meaningfully consider input from Warrandyte organisations and their valuable role within the community.
Outcomes failed to reflect the complexity and significance of service and facility needs, and disregarded previous plans and other genuine opportunities.
Draft report and Review process: Respondents felt that the report and review process lacked transparency, and some felt that plans for Warrandyte community facilities had already been decided.
Council said the draft Review report was intended as a high-level report summarising the key outcomes of the Review and proposed opportunities for further exploration and consultation.
Warrandyte’s unique character: Warrandyte’s historical significance and unique character were not adequately reflected in the draft report, nor were the community and tourism benefits generated by existing community facilities and their surrounds.
Council said it “acknowledged and appreciated” the significant level of feedback received in relation to Warrandyte’s history, including reference to the Warrandyte Township Heritage Guidelines, which will be considered in any future facility planning and specific upgrade proposals.
Broader planning context: Issues regarding traffic and parking were mentioned several times, particularly congestion issues during major events.
Flood risk and inundation levels were also questioned.
Council said it is required to comply with planning overlays and requirements imposed by regulatory authorities, but it will continue to engage and advocate where possible.
Feedback appreciated
“We appreciate this feedback, which has been summarised in the Outcomes Report, and which will guide our ongoing work to improve Warrandyte’s community facilities,” said Cr Grivas.
When addressing the Council meeting, Cr Lange said she was very pleased to say Council is now moving towards a more targeted, practical action.
“For the Scouts, it means holding meetings with their project group within Scouts Victoria, focusing on exploring their future ambitions for refurbishment or expansion, and looking at their practical needs of storage, as well as an essential need for amenities and access.
“Working with the Men’s Shed group, who are looking at moving forward in a feasibility study to see how our Warrandyte Reserve community facilities can be activated for them, looking at access to parking and traffic, and engaging with the community, ready for state government advocacy.
“It is also working with the Historical Society on a collaborative approach to look at their existing facility and how to maintain that for longevity and community safety.
“And then it’s our early years services that operate out of our community facilities and working with the department of education and local providers — we acknowledge there is uncertainty in this area, particularly with childcare services that operate out of local government facilities — we are committed to working with these providers so we can have facilities that are used for all our residents now and in the future and for our needs.
“I am really pleased to say that this demonstrates a clear shift from moving away from assumptions and having actual collaborations,”
Improvements to other local facilities, such as sporting facilities at Warrandyte Reserve and Colman Park, will be undertaken progressively in consultation with user groups and the community, guided by Council plans, policies, and the Capital Works Program.
Cr Grivas said Council appreciates the feedback and positive discussions it has had with community groups, facility users, and key stakeholders that has helped Council determine the next steps.
“This process has helped us to better understand what matters most to the Warrandyte community.
“We’re committed to working together to progressively improve facilities to meet local needs.”
REPRESENTATIVES from the Warrandyte Volunteer Alliance (WAVA) met with Manningham Council on May 13 to discuss feedback from the community and next steps in relation to the Warrandyte Community Facilities Review.
WAVA has told the Diary that issues discussed included the future of the Warrandyte Scout Hall, Warrandyte Historical Society Museum, and the site of a permanent Men’s Shed.
They also discussed Early Years Services, where the long-term goal is to locate childcare services on State School sites.
This would require support from the State Government.
WAVA and Council also discussed the Taroona Avenue Cricket Nets project, which is funded by the State Government — following a 2022 election promise — but managed by Manningham.
The project has stalled due to push back from Yarra Valley Water, a major stakeholder, who will not approve the works due to a main sewerage drain running under the cricket nets.
The project, in its current form, can only go ahead if the drain is relocated, and Council is currently investigating whether the scope can be modified to enable the project to move forward.
WAVA expressed its hope for continued engagement with Council, grounded in a mutual understanding of the actions needed to ensure Warrandyte’s community facilities are fit for purpose.
It was agreed that ongoing meetings would be held quarterly.
Scout Hall maintenance responsibility queried
THERE HAS been ongoing discussion around the responsibility for the ongoing maintenance of the Warrandyte Scout Hall.
The Scouts have long asserted that there was a maintenance agreement with Council to undertake ongoing maintenance in exchange for Scouts Victoria handing over several scout halls in a reconciliation of Scout facilities in 2005.
Council, however take a different view, as noted in the recently published Community Facilities Review Consultation Outcomes Report, which states:
“The Scout Hall is owned by Scouts Victoria who are responsible for building maintenance and improvements under current tenure arrangements.”
An old article recently discovered in the Warrandyte Diary archives now support the view put forward by Warrandyte Scouts.
This article has been printed below:
Scouts’ buildings due for council assistance (August 2005, Page 10)
Scout troops across Manningham will enjoy improved facilities following negotiations between council and the Scouts working party, addressing maintenance and management responsibilities.
“Extensive consultation over the last few years has resulted in the Scouts agreeing in principle to the implementation of lease and service agreements that outline guidelines for amenity use,” a council spokesperson told the Diary.
“The service and lease agreements mean we now have clear guidelines to ensure that facilities are well kept, safe and pleasurable to use,” the spokesperson said.
“The Scouts are integral to the makeup of our community, and it is important that we continue to work together to continually improve services.”
The negotiations covered the financial viability of maintaining halls; maximising use of Scout halls; justification for renovation and repair of halls; possible closure, change of use or demolition or removal of some halls; establishment of new lease arrangements, and development of service agreements.
Negotiations also dealt with the development of a “work program” for the maintenance of Scout Hall buildings and surrounds, and the ongoing maintenance of all facilities on council land.
The Diary reached out to Manningham Council for comment, who says the lease agreement for the Warrandyte Scout Hall, which has been in place since 2005, has not changed.
“Under the long-standing agreement, Scouts Victoria are responsible for building maintenance and repairs, while we maintain the external areas.
We are committed to supporting Manningham’s community groups so they can thrive and have assisted with a number of maintenance issues at the hall over the years.
Following recent conversations with Scouts Victoria and the Warrandyte Scouts, we’re addressing short-term maintenance priorities, and are establishing a working group to re-examine the site and explore the potential to upgrade the hall, within the planning constraints of the site.”
THE LAUNCH of the State Government’s car registration rebate initiative made headlines on the first day of winter, with reports that the Services Victoria App had crashed due to high demand.
The Government is offering up to 20 per cent off car registrations, a rebate of $186 for a driver with one car, or $372 for a family with two cars.
Drivers have until July 31, 2026, to apply.
Following reports of the Services Victoria App crash, State Premier Jacinta Allan released this statement:
“I know lots of Victorians have been online this morning trying to claim 20 per cent off their car rego.
The response has been huge — bigger than we expected.
So far, we’ve had more than 42,000 applications lodged, and up to 650 are being processed every minute.
That demand has caused some technical difficulties — but the website is now back up and running.”
As of Wednesday, June 3, over one million Victorians applied for their rebate.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ros Spence, applauded the initiative.
“This is real help that is putting money back in the pockets of Victorians.”
A week later, on June 10, that number had surpassed two million.
Looking at Historical data from the Federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport estimates there are around 4.5 million eligable vehiciles in Victoria.
Victoria’s Minster for Government Services, Ingrid Stitt, said she was thrilled at the scheme hitting the two million milestone.
“I’m thrilled that more than two million Victorians have already claimed 20 per cent off thier rego.
If you haven’t yet – it takes minutes.”
To be eligible for the rebate, Victorians need to have paid their registration between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026, for a light vehicle for personal use.
LA MUXLOW, a landscape designer working on Wurundjeri Country across Warrandyte and surrounding suburbs, has again won first place at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, this time in the balcony garden category for her garden “Immerse”.
Known for creating highly-considered, elegant gardens for new homes, extensions, acreage properties and pool landscapes, La Muxlow Gardens offers a personalised approach to all their projects.
As a local studio, the team brings a strong understanding of the area’s climate and soil conditions, delivering thoughtfully resolved plans and guiding clients through the entire construction process.
While Immerse was designed for a compact balcony setting, it was conceived to showcase the studio’s signature style: naturalistic elegance, considered colour and material selection, sculptural low-maintenance planting and inventive solutions for challenging spaces.
The show garden demonstrates how these principles can easily scale, forming part of a much larger residential landscape.
Built by Liven It Up Trade Services from Research and supported by Aumanns in Templestowe, Immerse transforms an exposed, overlooked balcony into a multifunctional garden room — a private sanctuary shaped for modern urban living.
Terracotta breeze blocks wrap the side, filtering wind and views of neighbouring buildings and the street below, while introducing warmth, patterned dappled light and a sense of enclosure.
Planting is layered across every plane, including irrigated overhead troughs that double as a pergola for shade.
Filled with low-maintenance trailing plants like Pelargonium, Hardenbergia, Rosemary and Sedums planted in light-weight soil mix, these trailing plants cascade down to create a new type of living green roof.
Draining down the central pergola post, into the wicking beds below, and then out to discharge, this planted pergola is designed to minimise water-use and keep maintenance to a minimum.
Custom-designed furniture allows the compact footprint to perform multiple roles.
A daybed converts into a two-seater sofa, a swing-out table adapts from workspace to lazy susan, and integrated storage keeps the space functional without clutter.
Features such as a copper pizza oven and concealed laundry further extend the usability of the garden, enabling it to transition seamlessly from quiet morning routines to entertaining and movies under the stars.
Photos: SATOMI MATSUMURA
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In La’s words,
“Immerse is about creating a sense of escape and connection — even in the most exposed environments.
It shows how thoughtful design can completely transform the way a space is lived in.”
The garden captured attention at the show for its soft, welcoming quality, attention to detail and refined colour palette, reinforcing La Muxlow Gardens’ reputation for delivering deeply considered, liveable landscapes — no matter the scale.
THE VICTORIAN Government recently announced a ban on all non-factory-produced e-bikes from metropolitan and regional trains in Victoria, including those converted by reputable bike shops.
The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) introduced bans from the beginning of 2026 for converted e-bikes on trains in Victoria, including new rules related to the use of other rideable e-devices.
The rules include:
Converted e-bikes are banned on metropolitan and V/Line trains and within ticketed areas.
E-bikes, e-scooters, and other rideable e-devices must be switched off and cannot be ridden or charged on board, on platforms, or in station precincts.
Only foldable e-scooters and e-bikes are allowed on trams and PTV buses.
The Department of Transport said converted e-bikes “are more likely to catch fire because of poor wiring, low-quality parts, or unsafe batteries”.
Converted e-bikes are regular bicycles that have had motors, controllers, and batteries added to allow them to function as e-bikes.
This includes pedal bikes converted “pre-purchase” from a retailer or “post-purchase”, either DIY or by a bicycle mechanic.
Converted e-bikes can be identified as having the electric components fitted to the outside of the frame, while factory e-bikes have the components integrated into the frame of the bike.
Local e-bike store owner Rebecca Lee of Rev Bikes, who sells both factory e-bikes and installs conversion kits, says these new rules are blatantly unfair and discriminatory.
Ms Lee says compliance officers identify converted e-bikes by identifying whether the components are integrated or not, but she says that having a certification standard would be a better solution.
In a letter to the Minister for Transport seen by M&N Bulletin, she said:
“While we fully support measures to safeguard public safety, we respectfully argue that the broad scope of the regulations as drafted will not necessarily meet their safety goals, and will inflict substantial harm on genuine Australian businesses creating Australian-made products with high quality and low environmental impact.”
She said the current regulations are manifestly unfair, as they fail to distinguish between unsafe DIY conversions and high-quality, professionally built customised e-bikes.
She cites the overly broad regulation framework, saying it
“discriminates against reputable local manufacturers and small businesses, by falsely suggesting to the broader public that their product/workmanship is less safe.
This is unreasonable, unjustified, and is significantly damaging to the livelihood of established businesses who have been safely trading in this space for many years.”
She said it also harms vulnerable users, especially those with disabilities who frequently rely on custom e-bike builds to produce bespoke mobility solutions for their specific needs.
“Telling them that because they’ve got a custom-built e-bike, they’re not allowed to take it on the train, and because they have a disability, they’re not allowed to have a driver’s licence.
This is appalling treatment of people who need specific technologies — and if they can’t get an exemption, that’s completely unfair.
I’ve got several customers who rely on commuting for part of their journey, so they ride to a station, and then they train, and then they ride somewhere else, but that is impossible now.”
Rebecca said much of the issue stems from the lack of certification standards for e-bike batteries in Victoria.
“The fire risks that prompted these regulations arise from cheap imported conversion kits installed by amateurs in home garages, systems which have been tampered with by inexperienced users, low-quality lithium battery packs with inadequate battery management systems — not just from conversions, also cheap factory e-bikes — and uncertified components sourced from overseas suppliers with unverifiable safety credentials.”
Ms Lee has launched a parliamentary petition requesting the government reconsiders the blanket ban on converted e-bikes on public transport and grant exemptions for custom e-bikes built professionally by approved Victorian businesses.
The petition notes, in part:
“While the ban aims to mitigate fire risks from low-quality, directly imported DIY kits, usually installed in backyards, it unfairly penalises thousands of Victorians owning high-quality, professionally built electric bikes and trikes, which have no greater fire risk than other e-bikes.
Professionally converted e-bikes are built in Australian factories by trained technicians, utilising high-quality components, and undergo rigorous safety testing, distinguishing them from DIY installations.
Custom e-bikes are often higher quality than most Chinese imported e-bikes.
Recycling old bike frames into e-bikes is more environmentally friendly and cost effective.
New batteries are not made unsafe by mounting on old bikes.
Many people with disabilities require this type of customised solution, and team it with public transport for commuting.
There are simple ways professionally built e-bikes could be quickly distinguished by public transport staff, eliminating the need for the blanket ban.
Denying exemptions to this ban adversely affects thousands of responsible and safe e-bike users and jeopardises the future of local pioneering and innovative custom e-bike businesses.”
To add your signature to the petition, visit the Parliament of Victoria website at https://bit.ly/49vRToH
Catch up on the series
Read the first part of this series – The Laws around e-bike and e-mobility here Listen to Part 2 – exploring the safety issues around e-scooters here
MANNINGHAM Council has provided an update regarding its Community Facilities Review.
A statement from Council notes Council officers have been carefully reviewing the detailed community feedback received about the draft Warrandyte Community Facilities Review Report.
“We are now preparing a document that summarises the consultation findings, which will cover the key themes, ideas, and issues raised by our community.
“We want to ensure all voices are heard, understood, and considered as part of this process.”
The statement says consultation outcomes report will be shared publicly once it’s been finalised and provide a copy to those who made a submission with an outline of the next steps.
“We’re continuing to meet with community representatives, key stakeholders, and groups to discuss their feedback, issues, and concerns in more detail.
We’ve appreciated the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the different views, perspectives, and priorities of the Warrandyte community and users of these facilities.
These important conversations will help us determine the next steps as we work together to improve our local facilities.”
Grant Purdy from the Warrandyte Volunteers Alliance (WAVA) said representatives have requested a meeting with Council officers, which will be held on May 13, and have asked that the agenda includes:
A date for a decision on a suitable, permanent location of the Men’s Shed.
A project plan that enables the Men’s Shed to submit a State Government grant application by June 4.
A target date for a report on the condition of all existing community facilities owned by Council.
Needs and constraints of their users with the purpose of establishing a prioritised program of works to return each facility to a state that is fully fit for purpose and suitable for their users.
MANNINGHAM Council has released its draft Active Transport Strategy and is calling on the community to have their say.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said the draft strategy sets out Council’s plan to make walking, cycling, and other active modes of transport safer and more accessible for everyone.
“Our draft strategy outlines how we will create a safer, more connected, and more accessible active transport network across Manningham over the next 10 years.
“It brings together all forms of active travel, including walking, cycling, scooting, and e-mobility.
“We want to make it easier for our community to make everyday trips using active transport.
“This has a range of benefits, including healthier residents, less congestion on our roads, and a reduction in pollution, which is better for our environment.
“We want to hear from as many community members as possible, so take a moment to complete the survey and share your ideas on how we can encourage more active transport in our community,”
Cr Grivas said.
The strategy focuses on improving key elements of Manningham’s active transport network, including:
shared pathways and trails
connections to key destinations and public transport
on-road and off-road cycling infrastructure
bicycle facilities along major cycling routes
amenities such as lighting, shading, and rest areas.
Once adopted, the Active Transport Strategy will guide Council’s future planning, infrastructure delivery, community programs, and advocacy over the next decade.
The draft Active Transport Strategy is open for community feedback until May 31, 2026.
For more information, visit: yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/active-transport-strategy-refresh.
COMMUNITY BANK Warrandyte has some exciting news to share with the community.
A new coin-counting machine has been installed and is ready for customers to use.
Branch Manager Mathew Thoompumkal said,
“I’m really excited about this because it’s a service our customers will find incredibly useful.
“It’s a huge time-saver, allowing them to turn mountains of coins into cash in seconds without any tedious counting or rolling.
“This will free up their valuable time and help make everyone’s visit to the branch smoother and faster.”
This machine is a huge value-add for our local shop owners, cash-based businesses, and community partners who need a quick way to deposit their daily coin floats.
“On top of that, it’s a fun, tangible way for kids to deposit their piggy bank savings and watch them grow.”
This machine is a free service for our customers and community partners who bank with Community Bank Warrandyte.
For a limited time, this service will also be free of charge for new customers who want to try this time-saving machine.
The addition of this facility reflects the branch’s ongoing commitment to modern, customer-focused banking, right here in the heart of Warrandyte.
Pop in and check out the machine, which bank staff have affectionately called Gloria.
