News

Restoring our riverbank

AS VALERIE POLLEY discussed in April’s Warrandyte Diary, [Are we at risk of loving the riverbank to death?] the bank of the Yarra River through Warrandyte is in a parlous state.
As one of Warrandyte’s most significant environmental assets and a community treasure, the Main Yarra Trail requires immediate attention to repair structural damage and revive surrounding native plants.
Heavy rainfall has taken a toll on the trail, resulting in significant erosion and the premature loss of several older trees.
But it is not just the weather impacting our beloved river walk.
The impact from events such as the Festival, Market, Park Run, Pottery Expo, and increased foot traffic during the pandemic has seen erosion and treefall, rubbish, and dog waste, creating stress on the environment around the river.
The flooding events that have been happening with monotonous regularity have only exacerbated this impact.
So, from July, Manningham Council says it will begin restoration works.
Following the floods, to mitigate further damage, temporary measures were implemented by Council, allowing the trail to remain accessible to the community.
However, a council statement said the focus has shifted to long-term restoration efforts to ensure the trail’s sustained functionality and environmental value.
Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said, “The Manningham Green Wedge Infrastructure Plan has been considered in the design and approach to the restoration to ensure the works are sustainable and sympathetic to the semi-rural character of the area.”
She said that in collaboration with an expert contractor, Manningham Council is dedicated to restoring the Main Yarra Trail to its full potential for the community’s enjoyment for years to come.

Environmental outcomes

Yarra Riverkeeper Charlotte Sterrett told the Diary the Riverkeeper Association had not been consulted about these works but said any works along the Yarra Trail should not only improve the amenity of the area but lead to a net gain for the river and her parklands.
“This means that the Yarra, Birrarung should benefit ecologically from any works undertaken – it can’t be only about reducing negative impacts from human and dog traffic.”
She said exposed roots, eroded soil, and damage to the vegetation along the Yarra, Birrarung is evidence that we need to better balance people’s needs with the needs of the river.
“Any works should lead to better outcomes for the river and her critters.
“It’s time to recognise that she has rights too.”

Council’s plan

Cr Diamante said restoration activities would include levelling the trail rock bed, adding rocks, weed removal, and additional planting along most of the trail.
She said some sections might require more extensive structural work, such as cement stabilisation underneath the trail and the construction of a retaining wall to prevent further erosion near Police Street.
Enhancements are also planned for the trail at the carpark on the public toilet side of Warrandyte Bridge.
Upgrades to the drainage infrastructure will mitigate stormwater flooding, while the installation of a new concrete shared path will improve accessibility for wheelchairs, cyclists, prams, and pedestrians around the Warrandyte Bridge car park.
The trail restoration works will begin in July 2023, with an anticipated completion date toward the end of this year.
While small sections of the trail will be temporarily closed during construction, detour signage will be prominently displayed to ensure minimal disruption and to allow the community to continue enjoying the trail.

Summary of works along the Main Yarra Trail

All sections: Weeding invasive species and planting natives to encourage new growth.
Path to be refreshed with new toppings and graded to support better drainage.
Section 1 – Everard Drive to Police Street: This section of the trail will be levelled out with rock and weeded, with planting to encourage new growth.
Stiggant Street Carpark and Police Street Carpark will also get minor drainage upgrades, including new drainage pits.
Section 2 – Police Street to 81 Yarra Street: This section of the trail has experienced severe erosion.
Council may install a retaining wall at this location to prevent further erosion, ensuring the path can be used in the future.
Section 3 – 83 to 119 Yarra Street: This section of the trail will be stabilised with a cement base and covered with rock to visually blend into the rest of the trail.
The cement stabilisation will prevent severe erosion at this section of the trail to ensure it is always usable.
Section 4: – “The Beach” adjacent to 141 Yarra Street and Webb Street Carpark: The lower path will not be touched.
The upper path will be stabilised.
Section 5 – 141 to 177 Yarra Street: This section of the trail will be levelled out with rock and weeded, with planting to encourage new growth.
Council will also undertake extensive weeding and planting in the Rainwater Garden opposite 177 Yarra Street so the plants in the garden do a more effective job of cleaning incoming stormwater and reducing unnecessary pollution of the waterways.
Section 6 – 183 Yarra Street to the bridge: This section of the trail will be stabilised with a cement base and covered with rock to visually blend into the rest of the trail.
The cement stabilisation will prevent severe erosion at this section of the trail and reduce water ponding in the area.
Section 7 – The carpark on the public toilet side of the bridge: Council will be doing a range of works at this location, including:
Upgrading the drains in the carpark to reduce stormwater flooding in the area.
Removing the gate and adding bollards for better pedestrian access.
Fixing any damaged structures, including the memorial.
Stabilising the trail with a cement base covered with rock to visually blend into the rest of the trail.
Replacing the existing asphalt path with a new concrete shared path, enhancing accessibility for wheelchairs, cyclists, and pedestrians between the carpark and the Main Yarra Trail.
The design of the shared path will be sympathetic to the surrounding environment.
Section 8 – 284 Yarra Street to Tills Drive: Erosion in this section has reached an unacceptable level.
To address this issue, a boardwalk will be installed beneath the oak tree, and in certain areas, the width of the trail path will be expanded from 1.5 to 2+ metres.
These improvements will enable easier access for users travelling to and from Tills Drive, the Stonehouse, and onward to other parts of Warrandyte State Park.
This will provide a better trail connection to and from Warrandyte State Park.
River health
Cr Diamante said that the trail is at great risk of long-term damage due to the heavy and constant rainfall last year.
“We’re undertaking these essential maintenance works now to preserve the trailÕs character and ensure it can continue to be used by future generations.
“Not doing so would pose a significant risk to the long-term viability of the trail,Ó Cr Diamante said.
Ms Sterrett said we all need to play our part in protecting the Yarra, Birrarung and her parklands, “including councils who have signed up to the Yarra Strategic Plan (Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo).
“The Yarra, Birrarung is a living entity and deserves to be restored to full health.
“Any works along the river should contribute to her health.
“For too long, we have taken nature for granted and seen her as a resource for personal pleasure and enjoyment.”
She said the Riverkeeper Association expects that the works undertaken by Manningham Council benefit the river “and not just visitors and their dogs”.
“For what is good for the Yarra is good for all,” Ms Sterrett said.
For further details visit manningham.vic.gov.au/news/main-yarra-trail-restoration.

State Budget makes good on Election promises

LABOR CANDIDATE Naomi Oakley made an election commitment before the 2022 State Election to provide $300,000 for new cricket nets for Warrandyte Cricket Club, which has been honoured in the State Budget 2022/23.
Despite Ms Oakley not being successful in her bid for the seat of Warrandyte, and even before the spectre of the Warrandyte byelection was on the cards, MPs for North East Metropolitan Region, Sonja Terpstra and Sean Leane attended the Warrandyte Cricket Club on Budget Day to deliver on that commitment.
She said this will mean that the club can continue to be a place that members and the broader community can stay active and engaged.
“The Andrews Government recognises the importance of community sport,” she told the club executive at the announcement.
“I know you guys do a great job here, you play such an important role and I know this club is an amazing club, how you engage with everyone.
“The sense of community and pride is amazing, so we couldn’t be happier to be delivering that promise,” she said.
Club President Royce Jaksic said last season the club fielded nine Senior sides, 16 Juniors, Over 40s, Over 50s, Over 60s and Over 70s, as well as Women’s and Girls’ teams.
“We’re the largest club in the RDCA, which is amazing because we’re a pretty small community when you think about it,” Mr Jaksic said.
He said next season there were plans for an all-abilities side.
He said the current nets are a health and safety issue as they intrude into the playing field.
“If there’s a game going on out in the centre, particularly cricket, and we’ve got people training, if a six gets hit, someone’s going to get killed,” he said.
He said it is also an issue during the cross over between cricket and football seasons.
A major concern is children can climb on top of the existing cages.
Mr Jasic said the new nets would be designed to make that “impossible”.
Mr Leane said: “The Labor Andrews Government understands that local sporting clubs are at the heart of so many communities.
“It’s why we’re funding upgrades to the Warrandyte Cricket Club.”

Upgrade for dog parks

Ms Terpstra and Mr Leane also announced the Budget was providing funding for upgrading the dog parks at Stiggants Reserve, Warrandyte.
A spokesperson from Ms Terpstra’s office said the announcement was about providing funding, the details of the park “still to be hashed out”.
“They’ll likely be run and maintained by council, with details of the build and requirements to be negotiated, including individual funding amounts”.
He said Stiggants was marked for funding as it is known to be popular with local dog owners.
Exactly what that will look like is still up for speculation, as Manningham Council currently has no plans to make changes to Stiggants Reserve.
Manningham’s Director City Planning, Duncan Turner told the Diary, Council was pleased to see the recent State Budget allocation to upgrade up to 22 dog parks.
“We understand Lawford Reserve Doncaster and Stiggants Reserve Warrandyte are on the list, but we have no further details about the funding,” he said.

Park Orchards Community House

Ms Terpstra and Mr Leane also announced a funding for Park Orchards Community House & Learning Centre a budget allocation of $60,000 to go towards important upgrades to their learning centre.
Ms Terpstra said: “Everyone in Park Orchards knows the community house and learning centre and how they have been serving our community for years.
“I’m proud to give back to those who have given so much to us.”

Ryan Smith calls it a day

THE ELECTORATE of Warrandyte will be going to a byelection following the shock retirement of Ryan Smith MP.
You can read his resignation statement below.
Mr Smith has been the Member for Warrandyte since 2006, after retaining the seat for the Liberal party following the retirement of Phil Honeywood, who had held it since 1988.
Mr Smith joined the opposition frontbench in 2008 and was Minister for Environment and Climate Change and Minister for Youth Affairs during the Baillieu and Napthine governments.
He has served on the frontbench in opposition and has been Shadow Minister for Finance, for Planning and Heritage and for Suburban Recovery.
Following last year’s election in November, Smith had flagged his intention to run for the Liberal leadership, but eventually pulled out of the race.
The resignation will trigger a byelection, which will be seen as a test of Opposition Leader John Pesutto’s leadership.
The Liberals expect the byelection to be held in mid to late August.
Pesutto spoke to the media following the announcement and said he learned of Smith’s resignation like the wider public, by reading his statement.
“I think we all need to respect the way Ryan wanted to own the way he wanted to make these announcements,” he said.
He said the Liberals will “throw everything” at Warrandyte to retain the seat.
I’ll be working, obviously, with the membership and the leadership of the organisational side of the party to make sure we choose the strongest candidate.
“I would very much like to see a woman in amongst the candidates”, Mr Pesutto said.
Several women have already been understood to be lining up for the seat, including the Liberal federal vice-president Caroline Inge, Manningham Councillor Michelle Kleinert, and owner of Bramleigh Estate, Mary-Anne Lowe.
Former Manningham Mayor, Councillor Andrew Conlon is also putting his hand up for Liberal preselection.
There is also talk around former MP for Kew, Tim Smith, who resigned from the Liberal party following a drunken car crash, who has stated he is thinking of running for preselection for the seat.
It is also unclear whether the Labor Party will contest the byelection, but the party’s success at the Aston byelection has given some ALP supporters hope of another upset.
Previous Labor candidate for Warrandyte Naomi Oakley said she was not ruling out a run.
“Whilst I will always take any opportunity to advocate for my community, the ALP will make a decision in coming weeks about whether to contest this byelection.”
Raymond “the Snake Man” Hoser has announced he will be running in the upcoming byelection as an independent.
He released a statement saying he will be running on a centrist platform of ethics, economics, law and order, and environment.
Hoser said: “I am needed to deal with the snakes in the Victorian parliament”.
He said that only with a strong independent elected to the seat will the local area be properly represented.
The Liberals currently hold Warrandyte by a 4.2 per cent margin, so is considered safe Liberal.
People from across the electorate, and beyond, have extended their best wishes to Mr Smith.
Mr Smith’s Federal counterpart, Member for Menzies, Keith Wolahan thanked him for “outstanding service to our community and our state”.
“Wishing you and your wonderful family the very best for what comes next,” Mr Wolahan said.
Both Park Orchards Rate Payers Association and Park Orchards Market Committee took to social media to thank Mr Smith for his dedicated service to the electorate.
Manningham Council released a statement acknowledging and thanking Ryan Smith for 16 years of dedicated service to the Manningham community as the Member for Warrandyte.
Mayor of Manningham, Cr Deirdre Diamante said: “As a former Minister and active local member his impact has been meaningful and significant.
“We wish Ryan and his family all the best in the future.”
Cr Diamante said Council will “use the upcoming byelection to continue to strongly advocate for improvements to roads, transport, services and infrastructure for the Warrandyte electorate”. Prior to politics, Smith spent 18 years in the financial markets working for a number of Australia’s leading institutions before winning election to Parliament in 2006.
His last job before parliament was as Manager of Institutional Banking Service for the Commonwealth Bank.
He says he will be returning to a role in the corporate sector.

Ryan Smith announces retirement from Parliament

IT IS WITH mixed emotions that I have informed the Speaker of my intention to resign from the Parliament of Victoria, with my formal resignation date being July 7.
After over 16 years serving as the Member for Warrandyte, and with a great deal of consideration, I have decided it is time to bring this chapter of my life to a close.
I have been privileged to hold this role and believe that many who choose this career do so with their communities’ best interests in mind.
However, amongst other reasons, I have become increasingly uncomfortable with the growing negative tone of politics, both internally and more broadly.
My role as a community representative has brought me into contact with an amazing array of people throughout the electorate, and I have valued the opportunity to work with and for them all.
I have held over a dozen shadow portfolios through the years of Opposition and, again, the stakeholders connected to these have been a pleasure to meet, and I appreciate everything that they took the time to teach me.
It is important to recognise former Premiers, Ted Baillieu and Denis Napthine, who allowed me to sit at the Cabinet table with them as Minister for the Environment and Minister for Youth Affairs.
I am very grateful for their confidence in me.
Some further words of thanks
Firstly, to my local community – thank you for your support over five election victories.
My hope is that you believed I did my best to represent you and to be responsive to your needs.
Whenever the cut and thrust of politics made me question my career choices, spending time in our community always gave me the positive answer why.
Working as your representative and advocate has been an enormous honour and pleasure.
To my parliamentary colleagues – thank you to those who I have worked alongside over the years.
Particular thanks to those with whom I have developed firm friendships; your companionship and good humour has always been a valued asset.
To the Liberal Party – I am constantly impressed by the people who make up the membership of our great Party.
Thank you to those who have supported my preselections, and to all of those who have put up their hand to help me and the Party right across the state.
Whether it be handing out How to Vote cards or nominating to be a candidate, you are the foundation of our movement. I ask you to never forget our values and principles and to remind those who do.
To the press – thank you for the relationship we have had.
I have found the vast majority of you to be honest, forthright and fair.
You are an integral part of the political process and I welcome your increased willingness to scrutinise those matters which need a light shone on them.
To my many supporters and friends – thank you for everything you have done to support my campaigns, for your wise counsel and your faith in me.
To my staff – these are the people at our Electorate Office’s frontline, the ones who make the first impressions which are pivotal to how we are viewed by our community.
I could not have asked for better.
Thank you to all those who have worked with me over the years, but particular thanks to those who are working with me now.
Helen, who was been with me from the beginning and who has been a treasured confidante.
Marty, whose good humour and patience when dealing with our constituents has made him an invaluable part of our team.
Antonietta, whose infectious enthusiasm always brightens our day
Thank you to each of you.
Finally, a special thank you to my wife, Avril, and my children, Brodie and Jaime.
My son was one when I entered politics and my daughter was born into it.
I am exceedingly proud of both of them and they have been, not only the lift I need when I get home, but a big reason why I work to try to make things better for our community.
Avril – thank you for supporting me on this journey, which is just a part of our lives together.
I could not have asked for a better companion through these years, and I am looking forward to the next stage of our lives together.
I wish the next Member for Warrandyte the very best of luck and remain optimistic that the contest of ideas will ultimately provide Victoria with its best days ahead.
I will not be making further public comment at this stage.

Designer shortlisted for prestigious design award

RENOVATING is a dream for many people.
We have all watched those reality TV shows where a complete home renovation comes together in the space of an episode.
The “reality” is a bit more complicated than that.
So where do you start, and who do you speak to?
You can manage it all yourself — finding architects, plumbers, electricians, plasterers, painters, tilers, and cabinetmakers — or employ someone with the expertise and knowhow to make everything come together seamlessly, on time, and within budget.
Ok, so who?
This is where Warrandyte local Michelle Sterling from Sterling Renovations comes in.
With 15+ years of experience and countless head-turning projects completed, Michelle says she can help you make your dreams a reality.
And it is not just Michelle’s customers who think she is brilliant at what she does; luxury kitchen appliance manufacturer Gaggenau also loves her work.
A kitchen designed by Michelle for a home in St. Kilda caught the attention of Gaggenau’s judges and was shortlisted in the 2022 Kitchen of the Year Awards.
Michelle has lived in the area for over 15 years, moving to her current home in Warrandyte in 2021, which she has spent the last two years lovingly renovating.
If she is not sighted with sandpaper and paintbrush in hand, you might catch her floating down the Yarra on a somewhat questionably buoyant floaty thing.
Michelle sat down with the Diary to discuss her passion for creating amazing spaces.
“I used to be in the beauty industry, and during that time, I was buying and renovating houses.
I said to myself, ‘you know what? — this is what I’d rather be doing’.
So I opted for a complete career change, went back to university, and studied interior decoration and design, and that’s where it all began.
Initially, I worked predominantly in kitchen design, then progressed to laundries and bathrooms.
Now my work has expanded into many different areas — all types of cabinetry, even complete house renovations.”
Michelle said that often her clients have just moved into a house and want to renovate everything — kitchen, bathroom, laundry, wardrobes, living room.
“I begin by obtaining a design brief from the client and then respond with a proposed design concept.
“We then discuss the pros and cons of various materials and finishes, and I provide samples for the client to ponder over.”
She said she then produces computergenerated plans and elevations for the trades to work from.
“Sometimes the plans are for the client’s builder whom I liaise with — other times clients need me to provide and coordinate all the trades; I’m happy either way.”
She said being a woman with a comprehensive knowledge of the building industry helps her to translate ideas from the homeowner into language the tradies understand.
“I often assist clients who don’t know anything about the trades required for their project.
“I manage all the tradespeople and deal with all the headaches, so the client doesn’t have to,” she said.
Michelle says the surprising thing about engaging the services of Sterling Renovations is that it costs less than you might expect.
Her job is to prevent you from making expensive mistakes that could have been easily avoided with the correct advice.
Michelle works with professional trades that deliver work to a high standard and turn up when expected.
As an independent designer, Michelle works for you, not for a large company on commission, so she has your best interests at heart.
She can visualise how a space will look and advise on the suitability of different design considerations, colours, and materials.
From experience, she knows what will work and what will not.
Michelle insists it is important that your space not only looks fabulous but is also practical and functional.
Often, she is able to create designs that clients have never thought of, providing options that incorporate your ideas and her suggestions for a fantastic outcome.
So, whether it is a luxurious kitchen, tranquil bathroom retreat, enviable wardrobe storage or a complete house renovation, Sterling Renovations can make it happen.
Michelle is offering a free one-hour initial consultation for your next house renovation for residents of Warrandyte and surrounds until the end of April, mention this article when arranging your consultation.
Call her on 0413 745 485
michelle@sterlingrenovations.com.au.

Fire Danger Period ends for Manningham and Nillumbik

THE COUNTRY Fire Authority (CFA) has announced that the Fire Danger Period (FDP) will finish at 1am on Tuesday, April 11, in the portions of the following municipalities not included in the area formerly known as the Metropolitan Fire District, as of June 30, 2020:

  • Knox City Council
  • Manningham City Council
  • Maroondah City Council
  • Mitchell Shire
  • Shire of Murrindindi
  • Nillumbik Shire Council
  • Whittlesea Council
  • Yarra Ranges Council

While restrictions are lifting in these areas, CFA still expects the grassfire risk to remain across the state in the coming months, so Victorians need to remain alert and prepared.
CFA North East Deputy Chief Officer Ross Sullivan said completion of harvest and more moderate weather conditions in the area has decreased fire risk, posing an appropriate opportunity to remove fire restrictions.

“Due to the cool, damp weather conditions we’re currently experiencing through autumn, and following consultation with our partner agencies, we feel it’s the right time to end the fire danger periods in these regions,” he said.
“It is, however, still possible for fires to start and cause significant damage, so landowners should remain vigilant and assess conditions ahead of fire use.
“We’re urging everyone to stay safe, whether you’re living in or travelling to high bushfire risk areas.
“Please monitor the conditions on hot, dry and windy days, as we may still see some days of elevated fire risk.”

The end of the FDP will allow some landowners to burn-off again.
However, residents must check that local conditions are safe before undertaking these activities.

“You must register your burn-offs, check the weather forecast and follow local council laws and regulations,” DCO Sullivan said.

Registering your burn-off ensures that if smoke or fire is reported, the incident is cross-checked with the register, which prevents firefighters from unnecessarily responding. When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.
Landowners can register their burn-off by calling 1800 668 511 or online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

Keep your burn-off safe and legal

  • Check fire restrictions in your area and always register your burn at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
  • Check and monitor weather conditions — particularly wind.
  • To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand.
  • Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn.
  • Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire from spreading. Never leave a burn-off unattended — stay for its entire duration.
  • If your burn-off gets out of control, call 000 immediately.

Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on Environmental Protection Authority Victoria’s website www.epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/environmental-information/air-quality/smoke/smoke-your-health.

Have a ball and support the CFA

FIREBALL is back!
Following the highly successful gala events in 2014, 2016 and 2018, and after two false starts in 2020 and 2021, Fireball will again come to life on Saturday, July 29.
The brainchild of Julie Quinton, Fireball was formed following the 2014 Flannery Court fires; Julie organised a small team of locals to recognise our CFA volunteers’ enormous commitment of time, effort, and personal risk.
Out of this intention, Fireball’s mantra was forged: to ease the burden of fundraising from volunteer firefighters.
CFA volunteers sacrifice a huge number of hours for our community.
They put their lives on the line. They often sacrifice their holidays, private/social lives, and family time in their CFA duty to the community.
They have been known to cook their own barbecue fundraisers, put on trivia nights, run raffles, letterbox drops and more, all in a bid to raise much-needed money to buy equipment to help protect our community.
They do this because they are committed to volunteering and keeping the community safe: they do not complain or seek recognition, and many of them are not comfortable with publicity.
To keep them safe in their endeavours and to enhance their community safeguarding, the Fireball Committee believes the whole community should take on some of the responsibility of fundraising for CFA services that serve us all.
This year’s event has been given an incredible kick start with the support of Bramleigh Estate Warrandyte; they have donated everything – the venue, the meals, their staff, and the drinks for the night.
This generous sponsorship significantly reduces the Fireball Committee’s need to call on the support of local businesses, many of whom have faced tough times over the past three years.
The committee knows other charity functions have been helped where possible, and Fireball intends to minimise the further impact on local traders as much as possible.
The owner of Bramleigh Estate, Mary-Anne McPherson, is passionate about “giving back” to the community, reaching out to the Fireball Committee to find out how she could contribute.
“The approach that Fireball has used in the past in ‘letting the Fireys get on and do what they do best while we, the community, do the fundraising for significant spends’ resonated with me,” Mary-Anne said.
She originally proposed this level of sponsorship for the 2020 event, and we are pleased to say she has stood by her commitment to support the cause still in 2023, even after her own business experienced significant impacts and closures over the last few years.
“It feels even more important now to be able to take some of the load off the local small businesses who are still recovering from the last few years by supporting Fireball in this way,” she said.
Historically, Fireball, with the support of our wonderful community, has raised between $60K and $80K in an evening; in 2023, Fireball aims to keep that momentum going to raise sufficient funds for essential firefighting equipment – for the same CFA brigades who also limited their fundraising activities over the last few years due to community impact.
Now it is time, and the Captains of the Greater Warrandyte CFAs consisting of North and South Warrandyte, Warrandyte, and Wonga Park, have determined that the broader community would benefit from the purchase of a much-needed light tanker to be housed at the Wonga Park station.
Money raised from Fireball 2023 will be delivered to the Greater Warrandyte CFAs to ensure they are able to purchase this more agile appliance suited to the local environment.
Tickets are on sale now for $220.
Buy your tickets on the Fireball website www.fireball.org.au.
Get in quick to be a part of the gala event of the year.

Get on board: skate sessions are back for 2023

YOUNG SKATERS are in for a treat with Sunday morning skateboarding sessions landing in Warrandyte from mid-April.
At the All Aboard skateboarding sessions, experienced professionals will help school-aged children and young people of all genders and abilities develop their skateboarding skills.
They’ll also have opportunities to learn about injury prevention, skate park etiquette, equipment maintenance and more.
To make these action-packed sessions even more accessible, all equipment is provided!
But, if you have your own equipment and prefer to use that, you can bring it along.
Skaters don’t need to have any experience and can attend as many or few sessions as they like.
The workshops are free, but bookings are essential.
So, grab your skateboard and join the fun.
This program is delivered by YMCA Action Sports and the Victorian Skateboard Association with a Manningham Community Partnership Grant.
Sessions run from 10:30am–12:30pm on:
Sunday, April 16 Sunday, May 21 Sunday, June 18 Sunday, September 17 Sunday, November 5 Sunday, December 3
To find out more and book your place, go to manningham.vic.gov.au/news/get-board-skate-sessions-are-back-2023.

Our hall needs our help

NOT MANY people know that the Mechanics’ Institute Hall is a true community asset; it belongs to anyone and everyone lucky enough to live within a two-miles (3.2 kilometres) radius of the Hall.
And so it is up to us all to give “our hall” the care it has provided to the community over the years.
The Mechanics’ Institute in Warrandyte has provided a home for the arts for 144 years.
The present hall has been in use for 95 years — but the basic structure of the wooden building is now showing its age.
At a public meeting in 1986, the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute and Arts Association (WMIAA), also known as Warrandyte Arts, was given responsibility for the care of the hall, which they have done, and continue to do, admirably.
WMIAA member, David Tynan, spoke to the Diary in 2020 and said that traditionally, the Association had found funds largely from its theatre productions and from hiring the hall for community events.

“However, large expenses, such as improving the toilets, preventing the regular flood damage, and major rotting of wooden structures in our buildings, are beyond our modest budget.
“We have been very lucky to have forged an excellent relationship with the Warrandyte Community Bank, which has meant that we have been able to secure grant funding to refurbish the toilets and foyer area, and recently we have completed a major overhaul of our drainage so that future floods do not impact the buildings as severely as they have in the past,” he said.

Additional improvements are made each year, such as the installation of a toilet in the pottery studio, improved theatre lighting and digital sound and light equipment, a rear deck, and termite prevention work.
To date, the Bank has contributed $120,000 towards the maintenance and refurbishment of the Hall.
Grant Purdy, Secretary of the WMIAA, told the Diary the Mechanics’ Institute Hall has provided an essential and easily accessible venue for all forms of art and performance to the residents of Warrandyte and the surrounding community of Manningham.
The focus for the Association is on social well-being and not exclusive or artistic excellence: everyone is invited to join the activities, and all are welcome.
Today, the arts community associated with the hall is flourishing.
Most years, there are over 120 members of the association engaged in a range of artistic activities and groups, including Theatre, Craft, Music, Visual Arts, Pottery, Tai Chi, and the increasingly popular Repair Café.
The Hall is in almost constant use by those groups and by other hirers who hold meetings, exercise sessions, events, shows and social occasions.
Thousands of people each year use and enjoy the venue.
Warrandyte Arts and the Hall are incredibly valuable and well-recognised cultural assets to the local and wider community.
However, the building and its original construction methods are now beginning to deteriorate to the extent that its future is in jeopardy.
Moreover, modern-day safety requirements mean that some expensive refurbishment has become urgent — if this vital asset is to continue to be available to the Warrandyte and Manningham communities.
The first step is underway with renovations to the Bio Box to overcome many current safety hazards and minimise one of the major fire ignition sources for the wooden hall.
The Bio Box is the room where the technical crew operates lights and sound in the hall and houses all the technical equipment.
The crew need to be able to see the stage clearly and have enough room to lay out and operate sound desks, computer terminals, and keyboards.
The existing Bio Box is accessed via narrow wooden stairs at the back of the hall and takes up the central portion of a balcony.
The box is made of wood, and is currently not fire protected in any way.
Numerous holes in the floor, walls and ceiling of the room are not sealed to prevent the escape of smoke or fumes.
There is only one way in or out.
This work can take place because of a generous grant from Warrandyte Community Bank and donations from Rotary Club of Warrandyte Donvale, Warrandyte  Lions Club, Warrandyte Riverside Market, Warrandyte Community Association, and Ruby Tuesday jewellers, together with a sizeable contribution from WMIAA.

“But now we face an even bigger and more critical project — to stop the scissor action of the roof system pushing out the walls of the hall,” Grant said.

This is currently prevented by tie bars, which are reaching the end of their lives — and this will cost money — lots of it.

The Association has proposed two projects to alleviate the problem.
The first is to install four cranked beams to support timber trusses and replace the existing tie bars, which are struggling to prevent the wooden truss system in the roof from failing and pushing out the hall’s walls.
This is estimated to cost $32,750, including a contingency allowance.
Following that, to install a new lighting bar system with audio and data capability — hung from the new support beams, estimated to cost $19,000.
This leads, including project management time and auditing, to a total of $51,750 for the two interconnected projects.
Grant said WMIAA has already raised $20,000 through ticket sales from its 2020 theatre productions and other fundraising.

“And a $5,000 donation from Rotary has been added to the tally,” Grant said.
“With substantial financial and volunteer time contributions from WMIAA, the current shortfall in funding is around $25,000,” he said.

Given the hall’s popularity, the only quiet time for construction is in January/February, so delays in obtaining funding will imperil major works taking place over the summer of 2023/2024.

“The availability of a builder then is also a major source of uncertainty — achieving funding early will allow us to retain the builder.

So, time is of the essence.
WMIAA has set up a donations page on its website:
warrandytehallarts.asn.au.
Any business donating $5,000 or more can have its logo featured on the fundraising thermometer in a coming edition of the Diary.
Give a little or give a lot — it will all go to help to ensure “our hall” continues to be a place we can all continue to enjoy long into the future.

Council reimagines Community Transport

OLDER RESIDENTS in Manningham will enjoy a wider range of transport options after Manningham Council announced it would expand its Community Transport Service in 2023.
Manningham Mayor Cr Deirdre Diamante said Council was excited to offer this to the community.
“This is great news for older adults in Manningham as it will significantly improve their access to community transport and connection to the community.”
Manningham has a high proportion of older residents.
In 2021, nearly a third (28.3 per cent) of the municipality’s residents were over 60.
Cr Diamante said Council is committed to offering services to municipality residents that support healthy and positive ageing.
During the February 28 meeting, Councillors voted to support an expanded community transport service, particularly for elderly residents.
As people get older, sometimes they need to give up their driver’s licence, but public transport is often unsuitable for older adults, particularly in Manningham, which only has a bus network.
So for the last few years, Council has been trialling a community transport network to enable senior residents to take a small bus with a well-trained driver who takes people to daily shopping, medical appointments, or social clubs such as seniors clubs.
“We found there was this incredible demand for people to get to where they wanted to go,” said Cr Diamante.
As part of the trial, the community bus service was increased from three to five days a week and included more destinations and improved access for more users.
This allowed more older adults in Manningham to go shopping, attend seniors’ groups and join social activities.
But there is still a need for extra services like transport options for bigger groups and one-on-one services, such as for medical appointments.
Cr Diamante said Council looked at what specialist transport providers offered.
“There are people out there who specialise in transport for older adults, many of them have multiple buses — some have more than 60 buses, and this could provide many more opportunities.”
She said that providers are not constrained by municipal boundaries, unlike a Council-run service, so they can go to the Austin or Box Hill Hospital for medical appointments.
“Some of these services even match volunteers up with older adults so that they can wait with the person while they have their medical appointment and then bring them back again,” she said.
Other services Council is imagining include the provision of buses to special events, like Carols by Candlelight, Warrandyte Pottery Expo, or Warrandyte Festival.
Council will now seek tender responses to partner with a specialist community transport provider to offer this expanded service.
Residents will still have to pay a modest fee for the service, which could be paid via MyAgedCare or other funding for eligible residents.
Cr Diamante said this is not intended to be a cost-cutting measure for Council.
“We will invest a similar amount of money to what we are now — but residents will get a better service.”
She said creating better community transport services for residents has been part of the Council Plan since 2020.
Council expects to have a provider on board by July 2023.

Aged Care reform

Following the Royal Commission into Aged Care, the Federal Government has adopted the Commissioners recommendations, reforming the way services are provided to elderly Australians.
The Commonwealth has developed a new model of care called Support at Home and announced a start date of July 1, 2024.
Following this, there has been a range of reactions from local councils, with some municipalities making the decision to withdraw from the provision of services such as Meals on Wheels and At-Home Care such as bathing assistance and shopping.
For example, in January, Corangamite Shire Council made the “difficult decision” to no longer provide in-home aged care services from July 1, 2023.
Corangamite Mayor Ruth Gstrein said the Commonwealth had developed a new model of care called Support at Home and announced a start date of July 1, 2024.
Mayor Gstrein said Council had accepted that the reformed services would be best delivered by alternate providers, who could offer clients a greater range of services.
“It was certainly not an easy decision for Council to make, but it needed to be made due to such transformational Federal reforms,” Cr Gstrein said.
“We also recognise that the new service being developed by the Commonwealth and the much-needed reforms are best delivered by specialist providers — a sector that has grown considerably over the last decade.
“The open market will provide much greater choice for clients, and Council will look at delivering alternative programs to support its residents,” the Corangamite Mayor said.
Manningham Council discussed the Aged Care Reforms as part of Confidential Business at their February 28 meeting, the details of which have not, as yet, been released.
When the details have been made public, the Diary will outline if there will be any changes to the service that Manningham Council will be delivering.

Dogs and cats have a friend in Manningham

FRIENDS OF Manningham Dogs and Cats (FOMDAC) held their Dog Activity Centre (DAC) Open Day on Sunday, February 26.
The event, at the centre located at Aranga Reserve, Donvale, marked the 10th Anniversary of the facility.
FOMDAC Secretary Andrew McFarland gave the Diary a potted history of the establishment of the DAC.
For 14 years, FOMDAC worked towards establishing the DAC and gaining a building for our club rooms.
Over the 14 years, many potential sites were visited, but none were found to be suitable for various reasons.
We were fortunate to have a supportive CEO, Lydia Wilson, at Manningham Council, who helped in the process and Councillors who, in 2009, were prepared to put a DAC in the budget.
After yet another possible site was abandoned, Director Teresa Dominik suggested Aranga Reserve.
While it wasn’t as spacious as FOMDAC had hoped, it did have the added advantage of an adjacent disused kindergarten building that could be easily converted to club rooms.
Community consultation followed, and Council resolved to proceed with establishing the DAC and leasing the building, which needed minor conversion, to FOMDAC.
In six months, the Aranga Reserve was fenced, and dog exercise equipment was installed, along with drinking fountains and seats.
The DAC was established, and FOMDAC was granted the lease of the building in 2012.
At this time, having a dedicated and secure, fully fenced off-leash dog park was innovative.
It was an instant success, attracting dogs and their owners from Manningham and beyond.
FOMDAC’s rooms are also much appreciated by the community.
As possibly the only Manningham council building allowing access to dogs, it has been a great success, being used by trainers, dog clubs, and community organisations such as Ambulance Victoria.
In 2020, Council renovated our rooms to a very high standard: lino was laid throughout, a dog bath was installed, and the walls of the small room were removed, making the space much more user-friendly.
FOMDAC appreciates this wonderful facility and thanks the past committee members for their advocacy and for never giving up on our dream.
Long may we continue to service the dog and cat communities and be their advocate.
Heralded as a tail-wagging success, with over 50 people and 35 dogs, including Rough Collie Minka who has famously appeared on Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries, FOMDAC thanked all those that attended the day:
“Thank you to all our furry and non-furry friends for making our Open Day such a great success.
“Great to see so many supporters and lovely doggies.
“A special thank-you to our Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, and Keith Wolahan MP for your generous support and kind words (bring that doggie next time, Keith).
“Also, a big thanks to Manningham Councillors Anna Chen, Stephen Mayne and Tomas Lightbody, Kevin Foster from Vets on Parker, Templestowe, Brigitte Hunt of Darling Doggies, and our great supporter Angela Heidy-Tennyson of K9 Nose Fun.
“Also, thanks to the Deputy Mayor of Whitehorse Council, Prue Cutts, for your support.”

Preparing for 24/7 Cat Curfew

On March 27, the centre will host an information session about Manningham’s trial 24/7 Cat Curfew, which is due to come into effect in July.
Secretary Andrew McFarland spoke to the Diary about the group’s upcoming event.
He said during the session, Manningham Council Officers would provide background, purpose, and implementation of the new regulations, take questions and hear concerns about the forthcoming trial.
“The Council are going to be moving softly in the introduction of the curfew; they want to give people the opportunity to set up cat runs and get their cats used to the curfew,” he said.
He said that as a not-for-profit organisation, FOMDAC wants to promote responsible pet ownership, so hosting this information session is a great way to let people have a conversation with Council about how the curfew would impact their family and their cats.
The information session will be held on March 27 at the FOMDAC clubrooms 53-55 Aranga Crescent, Donvale, and entry is free.
Attendees are invited to bring along a cat or dog toy to be donated to Blue Cross Animals Society.
R.S.V.P: fomdacmanningham@gmail.com

Countdown to The Pottery Expo 2023

POTTERS AND ceramic enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting The Pottery Expo as it returns to the banks of the Yarra in Warrandyte for its 23rd year.
Ceramic artists across Victoria, New South Wales (NSW), and Western Australia (WA) have been working in their studios preparing for Australia’s biggest ceramics festival which comes to the banks of the Yarra on February 25–26.
The exhibitors will present work that uses various making and firing techniques, including hand building, wheel throwing, raku, gas and electric firing, and a range of clays from fine porcelain to stoneware, terracotta and earthenware.

New for 2023

There will be a special exhibition of guest artists from WA featuring influences from the WA coastline and local flora and fauna, with work ranging from large-scale and sculptural work to fine-detailed pieces.
Clay Connections, a three-day Pop Up exhibition by Valley Potters, will be in the Warrandyte Artspace, 168 Yarra Street, starting Friday, February 24, from 10am with the official opening Friday evening as part of the new Twilight Trail event.
The exhibition comprises works including sculptural, functional and decorative pieces.
Warrandyte Art Space Coordinator Denise Keele-bedford explains:

“Each artist derives inspiration for their work from different places, such as their surroundings, their loves, their passions, and their imagination.
As each pair of hands has different experiences and works with the malleable clay in their own way, each piece is unique and holds a piece of the artists DNA and soul within it.”

Twilight Trail Friday night will feature a new event for The Pottery Expo and be part of the walking tour and exhibition openings in Warrandyte ceramic galleries.
It begins at 5:30pm at Stonehouse Gallery, which recently celebrated 50 years, then continues to the official opening of the Clay Connections exhibition.
The final stop is Warrandyte Pottery Studio Gallery for the opening of a new exhibition by ceramic artist Josephine Cassar.
This is a free event. however, bookings are essential.
Follow The Pottery Expo on Facebook and Instagram for more booking information.
The Pottery Expo Throw Down will be held at the expo on Sunday — hosted by Northcote Pottery Supplies.
Potters are invited to get ready to show us their best on the wheel as they respond to the challenges set by the judges.
A highlight will be an installation by artist Danni Bryant, who works mainly with the ceramic medium.
For The Pottery Expo, Danni is creating a site-specific work responding to the surrounding landscape by the river.
Comprised mainly of raw, high-fired porcelain, the work is stark and bright, inviting curious viewers to look closely at its intricate nature.
Ballan ceramic artist Larissa Taylor will also feature a site-specific sculpture with suspended and hanging figures.
On Tuesday, February 28, WA Potter Bernard Kerr will be running a special one-day workshop at the Warrandyte Neighbourhood House for potters focussing on creating large pots, using coil and throwing methods with slip decoration techniques.
For more information, contact Jane Annois on 0422 942 216.

Expo favourites

Children’s clay activities return, presented by Warrandyte Pottery Studio and Clay Talk Montsalvat and supported by Northcote Pottery Supplies.
There will be live music sponsored by Warrandyte Community Bank featuring Rick Ozimo with Black Cat Bone, Neeko and Cath Rutten with Velvet Lounge.
Saturday features artist talks and presentations.
The Cups to Go stand will again offer an enormous range of cups by the potters for sale right by the coffee and food vans.

Entry to the expo is free, and visitors can enjoy delicious food by Scrumdiddely, PoppySmack, coffee, drinks and snacks from Now and Not Yet, wine, beer and more by Hops and Vine.
For more information, visit the website www.potteryexpo.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Pottery parking

By JAMES POYNER

WARRANDYTE can often seem like the victim of its own success as hundreds of out-of-towners flock to the riverbank, cafés, and restaurants on sunny days.
Traffic frustrations are often exacerbated during “events” where the usual influx of visitors increases significantly.
In recent years, the Pottery Expo has suffered from this success, with its hundreds, possibly thousands, of visitors struggling to find somewhere to park and congesting local streets.
“While a great local event, the influx of visitors and, often, careless parking causes significant egress difficulties for locals throughout the weekend.
“This is particularly applicable for Webb Street residents,” said a nearby resident.
The Diary raised these concerns with Pottery Expo organisers.
Jane Annois provided the Diary with the following statement.

“We always work with Manningham Council to manage the parking and find the best possible solutions.
In the past, we have used signage and bollards on Mitchell Avenue and Webb Street, advising NO PARKING.
The problems have greatly decreased, and last year we received no complaints, but thanks for our efforts.
Unfortunately, the issue of an impatient parker moving a bollard is beyond our control.
This year in consultation with Manningham Council, the Pottery Expo has engaged with a local traffic management company to recommend a strategy for dealing with traffic flow over the weekend.
Their recommendations specifically target parking in the Webb Street/Mitchell Avenue area, and we will be implementing their recommendations.
We have signs indicating parking areas in Warrandyte and will have bollards and No Parking signs on Webb Street, and Mitchell Avenue will have No Parking signs.
We have formalised the use of parking at the Warrandyte Café [Police Road] specifically for Potters.
This process will be managed and will therefore ensure that upwards of 80 parking spaces will be available to the public.”

Ms Annois also advised that public transport options were listed on the Pottery Expo website and official flyers and that the organisers “have a social media/ information campaign to promote the use of the existing public transport system”.
“The system is in place and perfect for the needs of the public travelling to Warrandyte,” she said.

Giving young people a voice in Nillumbik

APPLICATIONS are now being accepted for the Nillumbik Youth Council 2023–25.
Anyone aged 15–25 who lives, works, studies, volunteers, or plays in Nillumbik is encouraged to apply.
The Nillumbik Youth Council acts as a peak advisory group to Council, a formal platform for young people to have their say on issues, needs, and aspirations important to them and impacting on young people in Nillumbik.
Members work together to develop local initiatives and projects for young people and provide advice to Council about how these issues can be addressed.
Nillumbik Mayor Ben Ramcharan said that joining the Youth Council is a great way for young people in Nillumbik to get involved and have a say.
“It’s really exciting to be able to voice your ideas and collaborate with councillors to make a difference in our local area.
“We want to hear from young people in Nillumbik, as their ideas are fresh and innovative.
“They’ve got their finger on the pulse, and it’s important to hear their perspective,” he said.
Following the success of the inaugural Nillumbik Youth Council, former Youth Council Mayor Brianne Keogh told the Diary about her experience as a representative on the Youth Council.

“It’s been a huge honour to be part of Council’s inaugural Youth Council and, in particular, serve as the Nillumbik Youth Council Mayor over the past year after being voted in by my peers in early 2022.
Being involved in the Youth Council has been an opportunity of a lifetime.
Not only have I made new friends with like-minded people, but I have also made a tangible impact on my community.
One of the highlights for the Youth Council in the past year was being part of the inaugural Youth Summit, which saw students from across the Shire come together to discuss the topics that matter most to them and come up with really great short and long-term actions we can implement.
We had 64 young people join us, including students from Catholic Ladies College, Diamond Valley College, Eltham High School, Montmorency Secondary College and St Helena Secondary College, to make recommendations to Nillumbik Shire Council on actions that can be taken to support local young people.
I was amazed by the incredible insight and enthusiasm young people had for creating change in the community and their eagerness to work with Council to make their ideas achievable.
It was an incredible opportunity to be involved in this energising project and a memory which I will look back on fondly.
During my time on Youth Council, I’ve also had the chance to co-design Nillumbik’s new Youth Strategy, emcee and host many local events, help write and produce a 16 Days of Activism campaign video, and lead my own community project, which saw more than 30 young people discover alternative career pathways within the sports industry.
These opportunities don’t come around often, and I’ve enjoyed advocating for the young people of Nillumbik in various areas of interest.
I’m so proud of what the Youth Council have achieved in two years, and I’m excited to see the legacy we leave behind for the next group of young people.
I encourage any young person aged 15–25 years old to consider applying for our next Youth Council in 2023.
You will develop your leadership skills and confidence and get the opportunity to work directly with Council to have a real impact for your community.”

For more information and to apply, visit nillumbikyouth.vic.gov.au/youth-council.
Applications close Sunday, February 12, 2023.

Council and community make progress on Taroona Avenue path

CONSTRUCTION HAS commenced on the next stage of the bike path which will link Warrandyte with the Main Yara Trail and the wider cycle network beyond.
The High School end of the path has started, with works expected to be completed by April.
Meanwhile, consultation for a new path along Taroona Avenue has taken another step forward with a meeting at the Warrandyte Community Hall.
On Wednesday, February 1, representatives from Manningham Council’s projects, planning and infrastructure teams were joined by Yarra Ward Councillor Carli Lange and an audience of around 30 people interested in the Council’s latest plans for the path, including the Warrandyte Community Association, and residents from Taroona Avenue and neighbouring streets.
The original idea was to link the Warrandyte River path to Warrandyte’s West End facilities and then eventually the Main Yarra Trail, however, community backlash against the over-engineered plans saw a rethink by Council with new plans for only a pedestrian path along the eastern side of the road.
In its original design, first proposed in 2018, the path was originally planned to be a shared path with a boardwalk running along the creek before it crossed the road at First Street to run along the western side of Taroona Avenue, taking out a dozen trees and restricting parking for visitors to both the market and local sporting events.
Then last October a new design was presented to the community for feedback, which Council Officers have incorporated into this (hopefully final) iteration of the plans.
Cr Lange summed up the mood of the audience “I know we are all excited, we have been waiting and waiting for this to come, but it is worth waiting and getting all the feedback from last time, and we have to look at how that has been incorporated in this design,” she said.
The latest iteration of the plans has integrated local stone into the edging, grey concrete, and natural swale guttering, in what has been largely acknowledged by the audience as being a vast improvement on the original design, and retaining all existing vegetation.
The stone edging will separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic and keep cars from parking on the path.
The road will be widened on the western side at the lower section to take into account the intrusion of the path at that point.
Cr Lange said this path is something that has been requested by residents.
“There has been a callout for its need and it has been ranked as a priority for footpaths in Manningham.
“This is a project that highlights the new planning guidelines and the mechanisms that make sure that planning and construction in Manningham follow the guidelines and procedures,” she said.
Doug Seymour of the WCA said he was generally encouraged by the new design.
“I think they really have taken notice of community concerns and also adopted many of the measures in the Green Wedge Management Plan but I still think there are some minor details that we can seek some improvements on, such as the reduction of parking opportunities,” he told the Diary.
Taroona Avenue Resident Colin Hall was also disappointed parking was not better managed.
“We have big sports events, and the market, and we like those things, it is part of the excitement of living in this street.”
Cyclists have not been incorporated into this plan, with children able to ride on the path, but other cyclists keeping to the road, a dedicated cycleway may be incorporated at a future date, but given that Taroona Avenue is generally a quiet road, it is not a priority either for Council or cyclists.
Local resident, Ian Moore said as a cyclist, he would still ride down the middle of the road.
“But it is good for kids, elderly, and people with dogs, it keeps them separated from the cars,” he said.
There was a discussion for further improvements to the design, James Charlwood suggesting lining the swale with stones or creating raingardens, similar to those used by Maroondah Council in comparable situations, to assist in slowing the water and creating cleaner runoff into the creek.
The finalised plans will be returned to the community and, unless the project becomes subject to a cultural heritage review, construction is hoped to commence in mid-2023.

A Whole New World of opportunity at Warrandyte PS

Feature photo: KIM CHARBONNEAU

The stage was set, the costumes were waiting in the changerooms, and the student cast of over 160 was excited and ready to perform Aladdin Jr to an audience of nearly 700.
Without warning, heavy rain and flooding damaged the George Wood Performing Arts Centre’s professional sound and lighting equipment.
With only 90 minutes before the opening of the curtain, the show was cancelled.
Yet, what was initially a disappointing experience for Warrandyte Primary School (WPS) turned out to be an excellent lesson in resilience and the positive power of community spirit.
Only eight days later, on November 2, the theatre re-opened, and the many months of hard work, determination, and dedication resulted in another spectacular performance by WPS students.
“This production, from Warrandyte Primary School, was extraordinarily good”, 3AW’s Weekend Break host Peter “Grubby” Stubbs told his listeners on November 5.

You see, the whole school was involved.
The work that had gone into this — and these were just kids at one school — was wonderful.
The lighting, the sound, the production, the costumes — you just couldn’t fault it.
I was completely blown away, and that’s where it starts.
The principal of Warrandyte Primary School came out and said the same — this is where careers start.

Inspiring students to follow their passions in music, dance and drama, and to learn the joys of whole-school teamwork, is what motivated WPS Performing Arts teacher and the show’s director, Kirsty Wolters, to put in the many hours of choreography, singing rehearsals, and scene direction needed to produce her tenth WPS whole-school musical theatre production, in as many years.
Kirsty said the school productions always create a real buzz around the school — with dancing and singing heard from every classroom.

“This year was particularly exciting.
It was a real team effort with all teaching and support staff happily putting up their hands to take on roles ranging from rehearsal assistants to stage managers, costume-fitters and set transport drivers.
Every child in the school shared the stage, from our youngest Prep students to our graduating Grade 6s.
The final curtain call to Friend Like Me was a joyful celebration of what all the students had achieved together,” she said.

Kirsty is a former ARIA Music Teacher Award nominee with many years of experience teaching Performing Arts to students from Prep to Year 12 and working with industry professionals.
She says her biggest joy was watching the rehearsal process and how the lead cast followed the school values — providing a fun, safe and friendly rehearsal space by respecting and caring for one another.

“I loved how our students supported one another by jumping in to understudy sick cast mates or enthusiastically applauding a nervous student after singing their first solo.
They were always quick to enjoy and acknowledge one another’s skills and talents.
The students were having so much fun that they didn’t realise they had worked towards reaching the highest level of achievement in the Victorian Curriculum for Drama, Dance and Music.”

The confidence gained through participation in WPS productions and its positive effect on shaping student study and career paths was evident backstage at this year’s show.
Past students who have since gone on to perform in amateur and professional stage productions, as well as study secondary and tertiary courses in theatre design, production and performance at the Victorian College of the Arts, RMIT and Melbourne University Conservatory of Music, were on hand to help with cast microphones, side stage props and organising student movement to the stage.
Among them was Cameron Poole, who played The Beast in WPS’ performance of Beauty and the Beast in 2019, was a dancer in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular in 2018 and 2019, and has since performed as a featured soloist at the Victorian State Schools Spectacular, and is now studying at a specialist Music School.
Cameron explained: “It has been great to be able to help with the latest WPS production.
“I am grateful to have assisted, especially as I have so many wonderful memories of participating when I was in primary school.”
Another past student was Trixie Kneebone (Belle 2019 Beauty and The Beast, VSSS Mass Dance 2018, and Mass Choir 2019).
She added: “For the older students, it may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, having lead roles and responsibilities in a show like this.
“You really feel like you are part of a professional theatre group.
“I have enjoyed seeing a different angle from backstage and was keen to support the teachers and students as they put on yet another fabulous performance.”
Kirsty Wolters believes the key to the success of Aladdin Jr was including and guiding the student voice in all areas of the production.
“Both our current cast and past students have reflected that what allowed them to perform their best on stage, apart from the huge support from the audience, was being involved in every step of the show.
“They valued being trusted to manage their props, costumes, set changes and stage entrances and exits.”
The student voice was prominent this year, with senior students researching the preferred show titles to create a shortlist before the big show reveal, choosing which character roles to audition for, and offering directional scene suggestions and ideas for props, costumes, and hairstyles.
The junior grades chose their class songs and inspired much of their grades’ choreography.
The whole school community is looking forward to what’s next in Performing Arts for the talented students of WPS.

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Many of the cast have not only starred on stage in Aladdin Jr but also performed in this year’s Victorian State Schools Spectacular at John Cain Arena — drawing special praise from the VSSS Director of Dance for their exceptional skill and energy.
You can watch the WPS Spec dancers on TV in a special broadcast on Channel 7 Melbourne Sunday, December 17, at 7pm.

Roadworks on the horizon

Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade: Foote Street works

IT MUST be school holidays soon, as Major Roads Projects Victoria (MRPV) Lane announce further road closures will be required across the Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade as completion works continue.
A statement from MRPV says there will be intermittent nightworks between 7pm and 5am Sundays to Thursdays — and if required on some Friday nights— between now and December 21 for final asphalting and line-marking (weather pending).
These works will progress across all legs of the intersection.
Road users are urged to allow extra time as temporary lane closures and traffic management measures will be in place.
Foote Street will be closed at Williamsons Road for limited times, when there will be detours in place using Anderson Street, Porter Street, Church Road, King Street, Lynnwood Parade and High Street.
Local residents will still be able to access their properties during this time with guidance from traffic controllers.
Impacted residents closest to the scheduled works will be notified closer to the date.
The speed limit is reduced to 40 km/h through the Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade and traffic management is in place. Continue to allow extra time for your journey.
For more information, please visit the Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade webpage at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/mrpv/fitzsimons-lane-upgrade.

Yarra Street and Ringwood-Warrandyte Road maintenance works

VicRoads is about to commence extensive road maintenance on a 1.7km section of Ringwood-Warrandyte Road.
The works will take place between Monday, December 12 and Wednesday, December 21 between 8pm and 5am, every night (except Friday and Saturday nights) on the section of Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between the Warrandyte Bridge and Jumping Creek Road, with works beginning at the Jumping Creek Road end.
VicRoads has said its crews will work at night to minmiise traffic disruption and that dates and times are subject to weather conditions.
No works will occur over the Christmas and New Year period.
Crews will return from Sunday, January 8. 2023 to complete the road rehabilitation works, if the weather permits.
We’ll provide further information before these works start.
How will this impact you:

  • During nightworks, Yarra Street and Ringwood-Warrandyte Road will be closed between the Kangaroo Ground-Warrandyte Road and Jumping Creek Road roundabouts, with a signed detour in place via Harris Gully Road, Beauty Gully Road, Knees Road and Falconer Road.
  • There will be periods where there will be no vehicle access for properties along Yarra Street and Ringwood-Warrandyte Road.
    Please refer to the table below for further information about access.
  • Access to Yarra Street businesses and the carpark along the Yarra River will be maintained.
  • Access for emergency services and public transport buses will be maintained.
  • Medium to high noise levels.
  • Some vibrations and dust around work areas while we remove the existing layer of the road, lay new asphalt, and reinstate the road.

Planned work schedule and access information for local residents and businesses

*Please note that works are subject to favourable weather conditions and may change depending on circumstances each night.
We’ll maintain access to emergency services and public transport buses.

Schedule Works location Access information during nightworks
Monday 12 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Jumping Creek Road and Pigtail Road No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road from 384 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road to 380 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Tuesday 13 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Jumping Creek Road and Pigtail Road No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between 380 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and 376 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Wednesday 14 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Jumping Creek Road and Pigtail Road No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between 380 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and 376 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Thursday 15 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Godfrey Avenue and Masonic Avenue No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between 358 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and Pigtail Road. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Sunday 18 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Godfrey Avenue and Masonic Avenue No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Masonic Avenue and 358 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Monday 19 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Masonic Avenue and Tills Drive No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between 340 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and Masonic Avenue. Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.
Tuesday 20 December 2022 between 8pm and 5am Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between Masonic Avenue and Tills Drive No access for vehicles on Ringwood-Warrandyte Road between 330 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and 340 Ringwood-Warrandyte Road.

Detour via Falconer Road, Knees Road, Beauty Gully Road and Harris Gully Road.

Residents within the closed section will not have vehicle access to and from their properties between 8pm and 5am while the road is being excavated.

Netball celebrates glory at end of season

THE WARRANDYTE Dragonflies and the Red Rockets took the flag in their respective categories at the end of the Spring Season and play for the 2022 calendar year.
The U15 Dragonflies dominated the match from the first whistle, playing very relaxed and confidently.
Unyielding in defence and precision shooting gave Ivanhoe Netball Club (INC) Swifts no chance as Warrandyte won 34–19.
Madie Jeffery was named player of the match by Manningham Netball (formerly Doncaster and District Netball Association).
The Open B Red Rockets had a much closer match, and in howling winds, it was even for three quarters.
In the last, Warrandyte was able to get the edge and eventually open up a lead which they held and emerged victorious over East Doncaster Netball Club (EDNC) Astros 27–20.
Madison Brunton was awarded player of the match.

Club honours

With the season wrapped up, all that was left was the off-court presentations and celebrations.
A large turnout at the Warrandyte Sports Complex saw outgoing President Eilish Vaughan officially welcome and hand over the presidency to Jimmy Harris.
Additionally, thanks to Bendigo Bank, some awards were given to members of the Warrandyte Netball Club (WNC) community.
Volunteer of the Year went to WNC Treasurer Kyra Holland.
Club Person of the Year was awarded to Katie Taubert.
The Pauline Dusting Player of the Year award, went to Opens player Lucy Wheeler who has been coaching and playing at Warrandyte for 15 years.
Life Member Award for 2022 was presented to Meredith Thornton, who last year was one of the nominees for the prestigious Teacher of the Year award by Netball Victoria.
A Warrandyte local since 1986 and a thoroughly deserving recipient of this Life Member Award.
The next netball season will begin in February 2023; with more information about this closer to the date, stay tuned to the Warrandyte Netball Facebook page and the Warrandyte Diary and M&N Bulletin for all your netball news.

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Manningham Netball: The home of netball in Manningham

By MELISSA CARTER

DONCASTER & District Netball Association has transformed into Manningham Netball as the Association develops to upgrade facilities, grow the competition, create athlete pathways, and continue to provide a quality grassroots game and a healthy, enjoyable community culture.
This is an investment in a better future for local netball.
The Manningham Netball launch event and game exhibition day took place on Saturday, November 5, with players and the broader community given the opportunity to see all that netball has to offer.
Opening with a come-and-try session of NetSetGo, a training program for children aged 5–9, to teach the fundamental skills and knowledge of netball in a fun and inclusive setting.
This was followed by a demonstration of Manningham Netball’s All Abilities program and a selection of talented players with an U/17 All-Star Exhibition Match.
Suncorp Super Netball all-star Jacqui Newton (GD, GK), who plays for the Collingwood Magpies, has been an advocate for grassroots netball and was also at the November 5 event.
The day brought back the energy that had been lacking since the onset of the pandemic, reminding the community of what netball is all about.
So much more than just a game, netball enriches physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing and is a great space for the continued promotion of women’s mental and physical health.
A key ambition of this partnership with Manningham Council is to create a better standard of facilities, as a crucial component of our association to achieve more than just compliance.
The competition consists of six clubs; Deep Creek, Doncaster, Donvale, East Doncaster, Eltham Panthers, and Warrandyte, with age groups spanning from NetSetGo/U9s to Open Age divisions and a Representative program with teams right through the age-group categories allowing some of Manningham Netball’s more talented players to compete in high-level competition in the Waverley Netball Association and the State Netball Centre, Parkville.
Thanks to a great partnership with Rob and Lauren Nardelli of Nardelli Netball Academy, there is mentoring for both players and coaches to pave the way to elite netball opportunities while developing the skills and expectations necessary for a shot at success at prominent netball levels.
Manningham Netball is excited to engage with and invites players in the Manningham community to join us and be a part of an exciting year of netball in 2023 and beyond.
For more information, visit:
manninghamnetball.com.au.

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Wominjeka wonguim wilam

THE RAIN held off as Manningham Councillors and Officers, past and present, gathered along with State Government representatives and community members, young and old, to officially open the completed wonguim wilam park and playspace at Warrandyte.
Translated as Boomerang Place, wonguim wilam connects Warrandyte township to the river, with picnic facilities, exercise equipment, and an adventure playground.
Five years in the making, the project began with the decommissioning of the former Lions’ tennis courts for the widening of the Warrandyte Bridge in 2017.
What were some disused courts, a small picnic area and a 20-year-old playground — serviced by a rudimentary car park — has transformed into a real village green with places to walk, sit, and picnic.
There are performance and exhibition spaces and a children’s wonderland, all of which embrace Warrandyte’s indigenous heritage, arts culture, and connection to the environment.
The park was opened by Manningham Mayor Michelle Kleinert and Member for Eastern Metro, Sonja Terpstra.

“Five years it’s taken for this project to finally be open, and about two and a half million dollars has been spent here over that time,” said Cr Kleinert.

Cr Kleinert paid tribute to the Lions Club of Warrandyte, who had managed the tennis courts for almost 40 years and donated $45,000 for the fitness stations installed under the bridge.
Sadly, the Welcome to Country that was planned had to be cancelled due to the ill health of Auntie Doreen from the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Corporation, who was slated to attend the opening.
Cr Kleinert thanked the Woi Wurrung for their support and guidance throughout the naming process.
She said Council was honoured to receive the Excellence in Place Naming award for its naming of wonguim wilam.

“This award recognised our engagement with the community, acknowledgement of the first nations cultural heritage of the area, and a celebration of traditions and of traditional owner language,” she said.

Cr Kleinert acknowledged that the artwork used on the park’s signage was produced by First Nations artist Ash Firebrace and said Council are working with another first Nations artist to produce additional artwork, which will be installed later in the year.

“The community has also contributed to the artwork, with colourful ceramic leaves on the shelter at the bridge, and in the new playspace, the waterplay area is lined with colourful pebbles.
“These were all created at the Warrandyte Pottery Expo earlier this year, and they look absolutely brilliant,” she said.

Cr Kleinert thanked the many other contributors to the park’s development, including the State Government, Warrandyte Historical Society, DEWLP, Melbourne Water, and Landscape Architect JMAC.
Valerie Polley of the Warrandyte Historical Society told the Diary that the society was pleased to be one of the community groups consulted by Manningham Council and involved in the planning process of wonguim wilam.

“It is wonderful to see the area being very well patronised and the playground being extremely popular.
“The new historic signs display the Society’s logo in recognition of its input into the planning process and provision of information,” Ms Polley said.

Cr Kleinert also commended the passion and dedication many Council Officers had put towards the project over the past five years.

“They have worked so hard and put so much passion and love into this, and so when you use it, know that people have done it for us all, and we are going to benefit from it for years to come,” Cr Kleinert said.

Sonja Terpstra said the area has long been one of Manningham’s most popular places.

“It is a wonderful tourist destination because the river here is a beautiful spot to come and enjoy and sit by the river, but also participate more broadly in all the things this wonderful space has to offer — it’s a beautiful link between the town and the Yarra River.”

She said it had been a pleasure to work with Manningham Council on this project by way of a $300,000 parks revitalisation grant.

“We always get the best benefits when different levels of government work cooperatively together — this is an example of that — and this is what we can achieve when we work well together.
“So, I’d like to congratulate Manningham Council for working with the community to design and complete this wonderful, revitalisation space, I think that community consultation has been very successful, and as you can see, it’s a testament to what we see here today,” Ms Terpstra said.

Yarra Ward Councillor Carli Lange said the space was a truly community-designed playspace.

“This wasn’t just a project that Council said, ‘let’s do it’, we partnered with the WCA, the Warrandyte Lions Club, the Warrandyte Historical Society and the local Aboriginal Elders, and this, the design in all its stages, was a combination of all of their feedback and ideas and has become a space that really is by the community and for the community’s benefit.”

The Diary contacted Lions Club of Warrandyte for their thoughts on the development of the site and the completion of wonguim wilam, but the club could not provide comment before we went to print.

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“Missing Link” shared path getting closer

THE SHARED path linking Warrandyte to the Main Yarra Trail has made another small step forward.
A window for public response to planning application PLN22/0002 — vegetation removal associated with the construction of a public shared path — between Alexander Road and the Mullum Mullum Trail closed on September 21, and there were three submissions in response.
Meanwhile, Council will be hosting an information session on October 26, at the Warrandyte Community Hall (Senior Citizens Centre), for further discussion regarding the plan to construct a shared footpath along Taroona Avenue, connecting  Warrandyte-Heidelberg Road with the Warrandyte River Reserve/Everard Drive.
The Taroona Avenue Shared Path has been contentious.
In the multiple iterations of this shared path, extensive tree removal has required public advertisement of the works and has resulted in a community response against the plans — with feedback ranging from opposition to the number of trees being removed, the unsympathetic design which is out of character with the surrounding built and natural environment, and even some groups/submitters questioning if a shared path is genuinely required along an often quiet residential road, which only sees extensive traffic during large town events such as Warrandyte Riverside Market.
Council says the path will form part of its Main Yarra Trail Extension Project to facilitate the safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists through the local area in all weather conditions.
The forthcoming information session will allow community members to meet with Council officers and discuss possible solutions for completing this missing section of the Main Yarra Trail along Taroona Avenue.

The Main Yarra Trail Extension Project

The Main Yarra Trail will provide a seamless connection from Warrandyte to the CBD when completed.
The trail will benefit pedestrians and cyclists by joining the Main Yarra Trail, Mullum Mullum Trail and other trails.
The trail extension aims to deliver increased participation in physical activities such as walking and riding to school, shops, and work.
Linking the CBD to Warrandyte will also be a major drawcard for recreational cyclists and tourists.
The plan for this trail has evolved over 20 years, and is being built in stages:

Stage 1: Beasley’s Nursery – Alexander Road.
This 750-metre section of the trail will provide safe off-road access from Mullum Mullum Creek to Alexander Road, where it joins into the existing trail.
Construction is planned for late 2022 to early 2023.
Stage 2: Alexander Road – Pound Road.
This one-kilometre section from Warrandyte High School to Pound Road was completed over several phases between 2011 and 2020.
Stage 3: Pound Road – Taroona Avenue.
Council is working with the Department of Transport on the design of this section of the trail.
This 1,385-metre section includes steep and curved roads with heavily vegetated roadsides.
Council aims to reduce the loss of trees, keep access to residential areas open, and provide a safer path for the community.
This section also intersects with bus stops, so safety measures will be important.
It is due for completion in 2023/2024
Stage 4: Taroona Avenue.
Based on community feedback in 2019, Council is reviewing the design for the 400-metre Taroona Avenue section of the trail.

The trail extension is listed in several of Manningham Council’s strategic plans, including the Manningham Bicycle Strategy and the Active for Life Recreation Strategy.
Manningham Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert said cyclists and pedestrians currently travel along informal and disconnected footpaths and arterial roads, which poses a safety risk.

“The Warrandyte Township is a major tourism and recreation destination on the Yarra River, on the edge of the Green Wedge.
“This trail extension will make it easier and more enjoyable for recreational cyclists and locals to access and enjoy all that Warrandyte and the river offer.
“This is a good thing for local business and tourism,” she said.

Council has already begun ancillary works along the proposed route of the trail extension with the recently completed barbeque area and bike repair station at Warrandyte Reserve; the new rest stop has already seen extensive use.
There is also a new bike repair station, picnic table, map board and drink fountain near Beasley’s Nursery.

Have your say

This information session has been on hold since September 2021 due to COVID, but residents criticised the last round of plans for excessive tree removal, impact on sports and market parking and a potentially dangerous road crossing near First Street.
This path will be built and will be with us for a long time.
As we discuss what we imagine Warrandyte to look like, this is the perfect opportunity to put this into action.

Date: Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Time: 5pm–7pm
Location: Warrandyte Community Hall, 8 Taroona Avenue, Warrandyte.
For more information, visit yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/main-yarra-trail.

Electric Avenue: EV Expo coming to Doncaster Hill

MC2 BECOMES Electric Avenue this October with the Future Vehicle Expo.
Two years in the making, due to the pandemic, the combined Rotary clubs of Doncaster, Manningham, and Templestowe, with support from Manningham Council, will present an electric wonderland with display cars, seminars, vendor stands, and even an electric bike test track, managed by local electric bicycle businesses REV Bikes.
The Diary sat with expo coordinator David Rosenwax of the Rotary Club of Doncaster to discuss their forthcoming expo.
“We are asking the public, is now the right time to buy electric cars?
“We want people to be more conscious about the world and how green we can make it.
“I think we need to start looking at being greener and modifying our ways and we know there are a lot of challenges in people’s minds.
“So we are hoping the seminar speakers can talk the general public through that,” he said.
Three seminars will be chaired and panelled by industry experts throughout the day:

  • Electric Vehicle Technology and Charging
  • Sustainable Travel Options and Technology for In-Car Safety and Travel Information
  • Automated and Driverless Vehicles and Trials, are we there yet?

Alongside the seminars will be a range of electric and vintage cars on display, including a petrol DeLorean – similar to the one used in the Back to the Future film franchise.
“We’ve got Doncaster and Warrandyte Scouts attending and they are going to run the DeLorean stand.
“I bought a Doc Emmett costume so hopefully they can make a few bob out of that by taking photos of people standing next to him and the car.”
With a range of other community groups also attending, it is hoped these groups can use the opportunity to raise awareness, and maybe vital funds, for their organisations.
One of the biggest topics of discussion surrounding electric vehicles, especially in Australia, is range, especially when electric vehicle incentives are compared to places like Europe and Scandinavia.
David said countries like Finland are only two years away from phasing out petrol vehicles, but the vast distances in Australia make the uptake of electric vehicles challenging.
“Finland is a small compact country – and Sweden and all those places – they’re great, they can do it, but they don’t have roads that go from here to Perth with only three cars on the road for the next 500 kilometres.
“We’re a large country with a population of around 25 million and maybe only eight to 12 million people own a car.
“It’s very different.”
David went on to talk about the type of infrastructure you see in more densely populated countries, of expansive service stations with banks and banks of charging booths and a fully serviced restaurant, which some argue is not practical in Australia at this time.
“There are all sorts of issues to be resolved here, but I think there’s a lot of negativity around it and I’m hoping this event might help negate some of that negativity.”
Batteries and electric cars are evolving systems and while range has greatly improved, and – in theory – Melbourne to Sydney would be possible on the same number of recharges as the equivalent tanks of fuel, access to charging points appears to be the biggest hurdle, outside of the current supply chain issues impacting many industries.
So, Mr Rosenwax suggests that maybe we skew our thinking to consider electric as an urban solution.
EV Automotive is a Queensland-based electric vehicle company specialising in electric vans; their EC-11 electric van will also be on display at the expo.
“It’s an electric one-ton van and it can do 400km [per charge] – you wouldn’t drive around the city in any one day and do that many kilometres.
“So, I am thrilled they are coming because that shows the world you can drive around the city, it seems to be a bit of an urban thing,” he said.
With everything from electric bicycles and scooters to electric cars and even solar-powered vehicles alongside some vintage petrol cars for lovers of historic vehicles, there is likely something for everyone.
For more information and to book tickets for the free seminars visit futurevehicleexpo.com.au.

Be Part of the Recreation and Sport conversation

MANNINGHAM Council has voted to establish a Recreation and Sport Advisory Committee (RSAC).
At Manningham’s August Council meeting, Cr Laura Mayne moved the introduction of the new RSAC, which will run for a two-year trial. “We are introducing this committee so we can have a municipal-wide analysis of Rec and Sport in Manningham as well as representing to our community our commitment to this area.”
She said the committee’s purpose will be to provide strategic advice to Council, particularly in implementing, monitoring, and evaluating Manningham’s Active for Life Recreation Strategy 2010-2025.
The RSAC will operate in place of the Municipal Recreation Association (MRA), which, until it was wound up in 2018, provided community advice on sport and recreation matters to Council.
Members of the community wishing to apply need to show a connection to Manningham – either that they live, work or study in the municipality – and should not presently be an incumbent president, secretary, or treasurer of a sports club.
“We are hoping to have an all-rounded diverse group of up to 15 people who are passionate about Sport and Rec, are intertwined with our local community, and are willing to volunteer their time.”
The committee will be chaired by Cr Andrew Conlon, and includes Cr Stephen Mayne and Cr Carli Lange.
“Overall, I am excited to see the formation of this committee and very optimistic about the contributions it will provide as Rec and Sport is vital to community connection, can do great things for community inclusion and support, and is key to our physical and mental health,” Cr Laura Mayne said.
Cr Lange told the meeting that she was excited about serving on the committee to discuss important aspects of recreation and sports governance.
She said the Active for Life Strategy discusses principles around keeping healthy and resilient citizens, improving physical outcomes, and having inclusive recreation and sport.
“It is about meeting daily physical challenges that we have and offering choice to our Manningham residents in the recreation and sport that they do, both passive and active,” Cr Lange said.
Cr Stephen Mayne noted that Council has adopted the name “Recreation and Sport” rather than the traditional “Sport and Recreation”.
He said it sends the message that the committee will not just be about cricket, footy, and soccer.
“But about the cyclists, the golfers, dog walkers, the personal trainers – it is everyone who likes to recreate and participate in sport,” he said.
Cr Stephen Mayne said that while they have banned incumbent club presidents, treasurers and secretaries from being on the committee, there is nothing to stop former presidents, treasurers and secretaries.
“It would be great to get people who can go across multiple areas, someone who has been a president of a cricket club, but who is also a keen cyclist and swimmer, as opposed to a cricket person, a footy person, a soccer person, with everyone just pushing their narrow interest.” Expressions of Interest to be on the committee will open later in September, with the committee expected to be endorsed at Council’s November meeting.