Council’s four year strategy, annual budget and Healthy City Strategy was approved at the recent council meeting held on 27 June. 

Mayor, Councillor Michelle Kleinert says that Council’s four year plan was developed after extensive consultation with the community which saw thousands share their views. This not only helped to highlight areas important to our residents but was also used to guide the future direction of Manningham. 

“Our residents spoke and we’ve listened. This plan is the result of Council working together with our community to understand what they expect and want from us as their Council,” she said. 

Mayor, Michelle says the annual budget for 2017/2018 will deliver council’s operating services as well as the key initiatives that will support the delivery of Council’s four year plan. 

“These initiatives are largely funded by rate revenue so we have been careful to balance community expectations with a realistic budget. 

“Our main role is to act as a responsible custodian for future and current generations. This plan will ensure we meet the needs of the Manningham Community both now and in the future,” she said. 

The 2017/2018 budget will focus on maintaining and upgrading our assets, including $13.04 million for sportsgrounds, parks and gardens as well as $12.00m for roads, streets and bridges. Council will also continue to invest in Aged and Disability Services with $10.51m and $7.79m ear marked across other services such as Maternal and Child Health, Immunisation, Preschools, Community Development Grants and Community Planning.

Manningham Council is urging pet owners to ensure that their animals are safe and secure during the festive season.

Celebrations and fireworks displays can disturb some domestic pets and Council is asking owners to secure their pets.

Dogs, especially, have extremely sensitive hearing and the noise from fireworks and thunderstorms can cause them to panic and become distressed.

Many dogs do abnormal things when stressed, like jumping over, chewing through or digging under fences. This can create a very unsafe situation for everyone, causing traffic hazards and sometimes fear aggression in dogs.

Fireworks are planned for the evenings of Manningham Carols (around 10.00 pm Friday 16 December, 2016), on New Year’s Eve and during Australia Day celebrations (January 26, 2017). Throughout summer there can also be severe thunderstorms.

If owners are concerned that fireworks and thunderstorms may affect their dog, they are urged to have someone stay with their animal or alternatively secure their animal(s) in the house or garage and ensure their dog is wearing a collar and tag, with relevant contact details attached.

Generally, Council has been able to recover and re-house the majority of pets without impounding the animals, highlighting the advantages of ensuring your pet is registered.

Dogs distressed by fireworks or thunderstorms that escape their premises can travel large distances.

If your pet escapes, check with neighbours, check Council’s lost animals page at www.manningham.vic.gov.au/lost-animals or call the Manningham Pound on 9840 9333. Other places to check are local vet practices, neighbouring Council Pounds and animal shelters.

It seems Manningham’s new Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, was always destined for the gown and gavel, having grown up on Council Street in Doncaster.

Cr Diamante was unanimously elected to the position by her peers at last night’s Annual Council Meeting.

In her acceptance speech, the Tullamore Ward Councillor and mother of three, said she would prioritise Council visibility and responsiveness for the community.

“The opportunity to lead this city in public service is amazing, it is a real honour,” Cr Diamante said.

“I want Manningham to continue to be a great place to live, to learn and to grow. I want my children to want to live here, I want my children to want to raise their families here.”

Cr Diamante said councillors had many responsibilities and one of those was to “protect and foster those aspects of this beautiful city, that make it such a great place to live.”

“I strongly believe one of our core roles, is to represent those people who elected us, advocate for them and to be their voice.

“I want to create more opportunities for councillors to visit your wards and speak on matters that are important to you and your community.”

Councillors congratulated the new Mayor and commented on her strong values and determination to listen to the community, keeping an open mind when it came to decisions affecting Manningham.

These sentiments were echoed by Council CEO, Andrew Day, who congratulated the Mayor on behalf of the organisation.

“I can guarantee you that the team who are in the room, the staff and the team beyond that will hook right in behind you and give you the support you need to be as successful as you can possibly be,” Mr Day said.

Councillor Tomas Lightbody was elected Deputy Mayor in his second major achievement of the day, incredibly, having also completed his master’s degree.

Cr Lightbody was congratulated by his fellow councillors for both achievements and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will serve in their new positions for one year.

Councillors also thanked outgoing Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert for her tireless leadership, energy, passion and for reconnecting Council with the community following the COVID-19 lockdowns.

During her Mayoral term, Cr Kleinert attended more than 600 key openings and events, welcomed over 1000 new citizens to Manningham and was a strong mental health advocate for the community.

Cr Kleinert said she felt a sense of duty to be a strong leader for Manningham following the pandemic and thanked the community, councillors and the organisation for the “beautiful responsibility”.

Cr Kleinert said she had endeavoured to reconnect, listen and be present and accessible each day of her second Mayoral term, having also served as Mayor in 2016-17.

In congratulating Cr Diamante, Cr Kleinert reflected on advice she received from former Mayor, Ron Kitchingman OAM, who attended the gallery last night: “Keep smiling and enjoy!”

Selected Council data is now freely available for public use as Manningham Council embraces the Federal Government’s quest to provide a more open and transparent government.

From Thursday, 14 December, selected Council data sets were made publically available on the Federal Government website data.gov.au. 

Manningham Council CEO Warwick Winn said Council was taking steps to become a more open and transparent organisation. 

“We’re making a range of data available, from our open space facilities and street trees to bushland regions,” he said. 

“In publishing this information, Council hopes to create positive outcomes for both Council and the wider community.” 
 
Mr Winn said other Councils with data sets made publically available had already seen benefits in the community and their organisation. 

“Data from other Councils have been used to develop mobile phone apps for disabled residents and a stormwater tracker to help monitor drainage networks,” he said. 

“It will provide an easy way to find, access and reuse public data.”  

In making selected Council data publically available, Manningham Council takes its privacy and legal obligations seriously. All data published will be de-identified to meet Australian business laws. 

Data will also be made available on Council’s website from early 2018.

Newly elected Manningham Mayor, Cr Andrew Conlon, has pledged to draw on his understanding of Manningham and its residents to guide Council in his next 12 months as Mayor. 

The mayoral announcement was made following a vote at Manningham’s Special Annual Meeting of Council on Thursday, 9 November. 

In his acceptance speech, Cr Conlon thanked his family for their support and acknowledged the work of departing Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert. 

Cr Conlon said he was looking forward to serving as Manningham Mayor and thanked his council colleagues for entrusting him with the responsibility.  

“Council’s values include working together, pursuing excellence, being accountable, respectful and empowered,” he said.  

“With our values in mind, I am looking forward to working collaboratively and governing with integrity, transparency and accountability. 

“It’s important we listen to our community and represent them in decisions affecting their day-to-day lives.” 

Cr Conlon said he was also passionate about planning for a better Manningham. 

“I believe Manningham is one of the best places to live and I know by working together we will keep it that way,” he said.   

Departing Mayor, Cr Kleinert, congratulated Cr Conlon on his appointment.  

“I would like to thank the community for their support during my time as Mayor,” she said.  

“The past year has been exhilarating and I have truly enjoyed every moment, meeting community members and representing them in Council decisions.” 

“I look forward to continue working with businesses and residents in the Heide Ward and serving alongside Mayor, Cr Conlon.” 

Cr Andrew Conlon was first elected as Councillor in 2016 and has lived in the Mullum Mullum Ward for more than 13 years, originally in Park Orchards and currently in Warrandyte.    

Manningham Council’s 2016/17 $142.19 million Annual Budget and Strategic Resource Plan and Annual Initiatives 2016/17 have been formally adopted by Council.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Paul McLeish, said that despite many pressures, challenges and cost shifting which continue to influence Council’s decision making, he felt extremely proud of what Council has been able to achieve in terms of lower rate increases while maintaining services and community infrastructure investments.

“Since taking office towards the end of 2012, this Council has actively driven ongoing reforms to achieve a downward trend in average rate increases while honouring key priorities to deliver high quality, responsive and value for money services.

“To this end, over the last four years, we have achieved an average annual rate increase of 2.73 % compared to 4.6% over the term of the previous Council, while delivering more cost effective services and significant improvements to infrastructure and community facilities. For example:

• the new waste service contract introduced this year will be up to 24 per cent cheaper (dependent on the combination of your bins)
• we have more than doubled the investment into refurbishing and upgrading the road network from $3.2 million (2012/13) to $6.8 million (2016/17)
• we have invested  $21.4 million to expand and improve Aquarena, which is reopening to the public this week, to provide better health, fitness and recreation facilities
• we are investing almost half so far of the $19.6 million project cost to develop the Mullum Mullum Reserve Stadium to cater for a range of sports, including basketball, netball, badminton, table tennis and volleyball, to name a few.”

In 2016/17, the total rates and charges bill for the average property in Manningham is $1,931.23 or 1.17 per cent ($22.90) lower than for the equivalent bill in 2015/16. The rates and charges bill consists of two parts; the first being the average rate increase which is 2.5% as capped by the State government, and the second being the waste charge.

2016 is also a revaluation year, so all properties have been revalued. The average capital improved value (CIV) for all rateable properties in Manningham has increased by 30.5 per cent over the last two years. This means that where a property’s value increased by more than 30.5 per cent, the rate increase will be higher than 2.5 per cent. Likewise, if a property’s value increased by less than 30.5 per cent, then the rate increase will be less than 2.5 per cent.

Across the City, 22,770 (48.1%) of ratepayers will see their rates increase by less than by less than 2.5%. On the other hand, just over half of all ratepayers, 24,452 (51.8%) will see their rates increase by more than 2.5%.

Council’s 2016/17 Annual Budget, provides $91.5 million to deliver services and a further $50.69 million to the capital program.

“Through the capital program budget, we will continue to invest in the renewal and upgrade of our community assets, and the development of the City's infrastructure”.

Some highlights are:

• $16.04 million to renew and upgrade roads, streets, drainage and footpaths
• $7 million to commence construction of the Mullum  Mullum multi-use stadium at Mullum Mullum Reserve
• $2.13 million to upgrade the Donvale Reserve pavilion
• $1.19 million to expand the Colman Park pavilion
• $1.30 million to upgrade Sheahans Road Highball facility
• $1.92 million to replace mercury vapour street lights with energy efficient LED lights
• $0.485 million for streetscape and street tree planting
• $1.68 to construct the Mullum Mullum trail from Heads Road to Park Orchards and Donvale.
• $2.73 million to refurbish and upgrade community buildings and facilities
• $1.22 million on the Park Reserve Synthetic Soccer pitch.

Cr McLeish said Council has shown a strong track record of taking a responsible and transparent approach to managing its finances, in line with community expectations, and setting a sustainable approach to delivering services and infrastructure improvements.

“While there will always be many challenges, including the impact of the State government’s legislated rate cap, Council will remain focussed on delivering  high quality responsive, value for money services which foster growth, support community health and wellbeing, and protect the environment.”

Manningham Council invites the community to take a stand against family violence and to help build a community where everyone feels safe by joining us at this year’s White Ribbon Day Breakfast.

Andrew O’Keefe, TV personality and White Ribbon Ambassador, will share his views on what non violent men can do to support women who experience family violence.

He will be joined by Inspector Geoff Darlison from Victoria Police, also a White Ribbon Ambassador, who will share local statistics and speak about the role of police in supporting women who report family violence.

White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end men’s violence against women and girls, promote gender equality, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity.

Based on the understanding that most men are not violent, White Ribbon fosters and encourages male leadership in the prevention of violence against women.

Manningham CEO, Warwick Winn, said the prevention of violence against women is everyone’s business and we can all play a part in challenging social norms that allow violence against women to flourish.

“The annual White Ribbon event is a way for us to come together and discuss how we can promote a peaceful, healthy and safe community.”

EVENT SUMMARY

Manningham White Ribbon Event 2016 – White Ribbon Breakfast with keynote speaker, TV personality and White Ribbon Ambassador, Andrew O’Keefe.
Thursday 24 November, 7.30 am – 8:45 am
Manningham Function Centre, 699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster

Tickets $10 including a full cooked breakfast.
Bookings essential by Friday 18 November, or until tickets are sold out.

For more information, call Council’s Community Safety Officer, Anissa Gracie on 9840 9330 or email anissa.gracie@manningham.vic.gov.au

About the Manningham White Ribbon event speakers

Andrew O’Keefe is host of the Seven Network’s The Chase, and
co-anchor of Weekend Sunrise, and is one of Australia’s most
well-known and versatile performers. He is also a founder of, and lead Ambassador for, White Ribbon Australia, a nationwide not-for-profit organisation dedicated to eliminating all forms of violence against women. He was a member of the Committee which drafted Australia's first National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and their Children. A former lawyer, Andrew also supports UNHCR, the Migration Council of Australia and many other charities with his time and expertise.

Geoff Darlison is a Victoria Police Inspector and Local Area Commander of the Manningham Police Service Area with more than 35 year’s service. Geoff’s career spans most of the policing spectrum with stints in Uniform, Criminal Investigation, Ethical Standards, corporate activities including Internal Audit, Risk Management and Business Continuity Management and work with the Protective Services Unit.

Certified by Chief Executive, Warwick Winn, in accordance with Section 55D of the Local Government Act 1989

Heide Ward Councillor Michelle Kleinert has been elected Mayor and Koonung Ward Councillor, Mike Zafiropoulos as Deputy Mayor for 2016 -17 at a Special Meeting of Council on Tuesday 8 November, 2016.

It is Cr Kleinert’s first term as Manningham Mayor, having been originally elected to Council in 2012.

Cr Kleinert thanked the residents of Heide Ward for her re-election and her fellow Councillors for electing her as Mayor. She promised to continue her efforts to represent the community with all her energy.

“With five Councillors returned from the previous Council and four new Councillors with a range of new skill sets, I believe we have a wonderful blend of experience with enthusiasm, innovation and fresh ideas.”

“I look forward to developing a cohesive team environment and a smooth working relationship between Councillors, officers and most importantly our community.”

“I appreciate this opportunity to represent our City and play a role in guiding its future and thank everyone for the faith they have shown in me. I’m honoured to be elected Mayor and very proud to be given the opportunity to serve our community,” she said.

Cr Jennifer Yang has resigned as Mayor and a councillor of the City to Manningham to focus on her official campaign to be elected to the Senate in the forthcoming Federal elections. The elections are expected to be formally announced any day now.

Ms Yang’s resignation became effective on Saturday 30 April.

As a result of her resignation, and in accordance with Council's Meeting Local Law, a Special Meeting of Council will be held on Tuesday 17 May to elect a new Mayor.

In her resignation letter, Ms Yang said that it had been an honour and privilege to serve the Manningham community for the past five and half years. She said that she particularly enjoyed working closely with the community and being an advocate for a diverse range of community issues, including services for senior citizens, young families, migrants and special needs groups.

She also expressed her most sincere gratitude to the community, Manningham Council staff and her fellow councillors for their ongoing support and friendship.

Cultural Diversity Week, celebrated in Victoria from Saturday 12 – Sunday 20 March, brings people from all walks of life together to promote harmony and celebrate the many cultures that make up our vibrant community.

With more than 140 nationalities calling the City of Manningham home  and the municipality recently being declared a Migrant and Refugee Welcome Zone, this year the community will celebrate cultural diversity with a whole series of events over the month of March. 

Respect Soccer tournament – Uniting Communities through the Power of Sport
Sunday 6 March, 11.30 am – 5.30 pm
Andersons Park, 117 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East

Join in and celebrate Manningham’s diverse multicultural and multifaith community through sport, food and festivities.

Activities include:
Free Soccer Clinic (5 – 14 year olds) run by Melbourne City Soccer Club from 11.30 am
Multicultural Soccer round robin from 1.00 pm to 5.30 pm
Community team vs. Victoria Police team exhibition match

For bookings/information visit http://respectroundrobin.wix.com/manningham

Chess for Fun
Doncaster Library, every Thursday in March (and ongoing to June), 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm
MC Square, 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster

Meet new people and learn to play Chinese Chess.  Bilingual English/Chinese tuition provided.  Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experienced players.  Bookings not required.

Hybrid II Exhibition at Manningham Walk of Art
Monday 7 March – Saturday 2 April 2016
Walk of Art @ MC², 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster
Opening event: Saturday 12 March, 4.00 pm – 5.00 pm

Hybrid II presents a collaborative series of 25 etchings from artists, Damon Kowarsky and Muhammad Atif Khan.

In 2014 Damon Kowarsky travelled to National College of Arts Lahore to work with Pakistani artist Atif Khan on prints exploring history and cultural exchange between Australia and Pakistan.

A drawing project will also be conducted by Damon Kowarsky during the exhibition.  The aim of the project will be to showcase the contribution, partnership and the cultural diversity of the Manningham community. The finished artwork will be on display from 14 March  – 2 April at the Manningham Civic Centre foyer, 699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body

Multicultural Arts Activity
Friday 18 March, 3.30 pm to 5.00 pm
Plaza Park at MC Square, 687 Doncaster Road, Doncaster

Bring the kids along after school for some free art fun with a multicultural flavour.

Ajani Multicultural Festival
Saturday 19 March, 12 noon – 4.00 pm
Ajani Community Hub and Reserve, 284 Thompsons Road, Templestowe Lower

Enjoy free cultural performances, giant games, backyard sports, face painting, petting zoo, art activities and a multicultural grill barbeque.

Manningham Harmony Day Celebration “The Quest of Discovery”. 
Wednesday 23 March, 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm
Manningham Function Centre, Doncaster

A vibrant evening of insight, music, culture and celebration hosted by the Manningham Interfaith Network, local primary and secondary schools as well as local Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Baha’i and other faith communities.

This event is supported by Manningham Council and the Victorian Multicultural Commission.  All are welcome.

Manningham City Council’s street lights are about to shine more sustainably thanks to a switch to energy efficient globes.

A total of 6,250 street lights will be replaced across Bulleen, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Donvale, Nunawading, Templestowe and Templestowe Lower up until the end of June 2017 as part of Council’s $2.4 million Street Light LED Replacement Program.

Manningham’s existing 50, 80 and 125 watt mercury vapour street lights will be replaced with energy efficient LED luminaires including new photo electric (PE) cells, which are up to 84 per cent more energy efficient.

The efficiency of these LEDs means that the project will save Council more than $300,000 annually in electricity costs. The emissions reduction is equivalent to taking over 300 cars off the road for an entire year.

Improving the energy efficiency of public lighting in Manningham was identified as a key strategic action in the Climate 2020 Action Plan (2009) and the Carbon Abatement Plan (2014) where the goals are to: Improve energy and carbon efficiency by 20 per cent by 2020; and move towards zero net emissions

Manningham City Council Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert, said “the street lights replacement program is another example of our commitment to creating a more sustainable environment for our residents today, and into the future.”

For more information, visit www.manningham.vic.gov.au/streetlights

Manningham Council’s commitment to gender equality has been marked by the release of its inaugural Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP).

The first GEAP sets out our commitment to gender equality as a defined entity under the Gender Equality Act 2020.
Manningham Council Acting Chief Executive Officer, Rachelle Quattrocchi, said that this marks an important milestone and represents our promise to lead with our values.

“We are not only meeting our legislative obligations but are taking action against gender inequality in our workplace,” said Ms Quattrocchi.

In recent years Manningham Council has taken steps in our journey towards gender equality. Highlights include:

• Affirming a commitment to improving the representation of women as elected representatives in Victorian councils by signing the Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter.
• Challenging employees to start conversations and actively call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping when they see them.
• Supporting annual International Women’s Day activities.
• Celebrating solidarity in gender and sexual diversity by participating in the Midsumma Pride March since 2021.
• Learning from the lived experiences of women with disabilities who have experienced family violence as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence Campaign 2021.

“Although we are proud of these achievements, we recognise that there is still more work to do if we are to realise our vision for gender equality. We have worked hard to ensure that the strategies and actions included in our GEAP not only respond to the seven workplace gender equality indicators, but will allow us to lead and embed change, and facilitate meaningful and sustainable outcomes,” said Ms Quattrocchi.

This ambitious program of work aims to ensure all Manningham employees are equipped with the resources, capabilities, skills and confidence to address gender equality which will, in turn, have positive flow-on effects for our community.

The GEAP aligns with our 2040 Community Vision - a peaceful, inclusive and safe community, where we all have a sense of belonging and respect for one another.

The GEAP can be viewed at manningham.vic.gov.au.

Manningham Council announced the 2022 Civic Award winners at a ceremony on Wednesday night. 

Close to 200 people attended the Manningham Function Centre event, hosted by radio’s, Lucy Holmes.

Manningham Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert congratulated the winners and said the room was buzzing with anticipation.,

“There was amazing support for our 25 nominees this year. Announcing the winners was incredibly exciting!

It felt very special to recognise the people who continuously dedicate their time and effort, helping us become a stronger, more connected and resilient community”.

This year, Council renamed the Volunteer of the Year Award in honour of the late Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP. Members of the Stoves family attended the ceremony to see Varvara Ioannou receive the award. Varvara could not attend the ceremony but was honoured to receive the award, saying, 

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Manningham City Council for honouring me with the prestigious Doreen Stoves Civic Award. I had the pleasure for having had brunch with the late Doreen a month before she passed away. It was such an honour to watch the whole ceremony from Greece. I had tears in my eyes and feel blessed. Thank you.”

The 2022 award winners are:

Citizen of the Year - Margaret Kelly

Margaret Kelly has dedicated over 25 years of community service and voluntary work in Warrandyte. As a committee member and President of the Warrandyte Historical Society, Margaret has had an exceptionally positive impact on the preservation of Warrandyte’s history and has been involved in various committees for sporting groups, kinder and school councils. 

Young Citizen of the Year - Stephanie Martinez

Stephanie is acknowledged for her community contributions, which include being involved in and leading key local projects, supporting vulnerable community members and participating in local committees. Stephanie exemplifies the next generation of change and continues to give back to her community.

Sports Volunteer of the Year - Vince Montuoro

Vince is acknowledged for his work in establishing and growing football opportunities for children across Manningham. His enthusiasm about using football as a vehicle to get kids active, develop better people skills and facilitate personal growth has helped kids across the community.

Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP Volunteer of the Year - Varvara Ioannou

Varvara Ioannou is acknowledged as being an inspiring volunteer leader in our community, sharing her professional knowledge and experience. Varvara encourages others to volunteer their time to create an inclusive community. She is committed to creating inclusive schools, universities, workplaces, community organisations and communities. 

Community Achievement Award - CareNet Program

The CareNet program is acknowledged for providing much needed food relief to our community. Their volunteers are friendly and supportive. Carenet has overcome barriers to food accessibility, making food relief easy and available in a safe place for those in need.

For further information, go to www.manningham.vic.gov.au/manningham-civic-awards.  

The 2022 Monster Community Raffle was a huge success, raising $12,000 for local community groups and $4000 for the Manningham Community Fund.

The 17th annual raffle draw was held on the evening of Thursday 8 September at the Templestowe Bowling Club and streamed live on the Manningham Council Facebook page.

More than 40 people turned out in person to watch Mr Rex Harvey take out the top prize, a $5000 Coles Myer voucher. A further five lucky winners shared in prizes valued at $5000.
Council partnered with Templestowe Bowling Club to deliver this year’s raffle and Manningham Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert thanked everyone who sold and purchased tickets for the fantastic cause.

“It was an exciting night, and the best part was knowing that together, we had raised $16,000 which will go back to into our local community,” Cr Kleinert said.

Raffle tickets were sold for $2.00 each, with community organisations receiving $1.50, and the remaining 50 cents donated to the Manningham Community Fund.

The Community Fund was established in 1923 and supports welfare services offered by charitable organisations in our community.

A full list of raffle winners is available at www.manningham.vic.gov.au/news/monster-community-raffle.

The Warrandyte community celebrated their newest community park and playspace in style on Sunday 18 September, with hundreds turning out for the official opening of wonguim wilam.

Tunes from local musicians set the mood, while the Lions Club fired up the new barbecue facilities and hosted a sausage sizzle.

Now and Not Yet café kept the grown-ups topped up with coffee and donuts, while the kids did their best to reach the top of the tower in the incredible new playspace.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert officially opened wonguim wilam, saying that the occasion (on Sunday 18 September) was a fantastic way to celebrate the culmination of a journey that began five years ago.

“I’m pleased that we have created this beautiful, inviting, accessible and safe space for everyone to use,” Cr Kleinert said.

“The park has Indigenous vegetation, animal habitats, community art and shade. There’s space for people to walk away from the road, sit down, enjoy the outdoors, come together or have a barbecue. There’s equipment for people to get fit and an incredible playground for children. There are also signs to inform us of this place’s past, to remind us of its heritage,” the Mayor added.

The Woi-wurrung name, wonguim wilam (pronounced won-goom-wil-lum), translates to ‘boomerang place’.

The playspace upgrade was made possible through a $300,000 grant from the Victorian Government Parks Revitalisation Grants Program and a $45,000 contribution towards the exercise station from the Warrandyte Lions Club (co-funded by Manningham Council).

Cr Kleinert thanked the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Corporation for its support and guidance throughout the naming process, and members of the project reference group for their time and leadership.

“The Lions Club also showed their willingness to be community leaders by supporting the park’s name change. Thank you for taking up this important opportunity in reconciliation and for your contributions to the park over the last 40 years.” 

Manningham Council received the ‘Excellence in Place Naming’ award for naming wonguim wilam at the Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards earlier this year.

Learn more by visiting: yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/wonguim-wilam or check out the park in person at 225 Yarra St, Warrandyte.

A passion for the community has seen Manningham Councillor, Geoff Gough, serve his local community for more than 20 years.   

Cr Gough was recognised this month for his long service, also receiving a Mayor Emeritus award at the Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) Councillor Service Awards. 

Manningham Council Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert said it was wonderful that Cr Gough was recognised for his service to the Manningham community. 

“Having worked in education in the eastern region for more than 30 years and serving as a Councillor since 1997, Cr Gough has a deep passion for Manningham, particularly in meeting the needs of community groups, sporting clubs and residents,” she said.  

“The two awards recognise his long service to our community including four full terms as the Mayor of Manningham.”

Having grown up and raised his own family in Manningham, Cr Gough spent many years mentoring young people with special needs before retiring. 

Cr Gough said it was a privilege to be able to serve the Manningham community for more than 20 years.  

“It’s an honour to hear the stories and concerns of our community members and be able to represent them on issues affecting their everyday lives,” he said. 

“The issues faced by our community 20 years ago has changed over time. However, one thing that remains a constant is the community’s need to be heard. 

“This is not a responsibility I take lightly and would like to thank the community for entrusting me to represent them.”

Cr Gough was presented an award for 20 years’ of continuous service as a Councillor and a Mayor Emeritus award for serving three or more full terms as Mayor of Manningham Council. 

Cr Gough has also previously held the position of Deputy President (Metro) of the MAV and served four terms on the Board. 

Photograph and interview opportunities are available.  

Manningham seniors and students have discovered a shared enjoyment for a game of chess and are improving their skills together through an intergenerational chess group.

Manningham City Council and Ss Peter and Pauls Primary School Doncaster East have teamed up to connect members of the Social Support Chess Group and students on a fortnightly basis.

Throughout term three the young and the young at heart will be sitting down to enjoy a game and each other’s company.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert, said there is an old saying that chess is not always about winning, sometimes it is simply about learning, and so is life.

“This saying captures the intent of this program perfectly, creating opportunities for different generations in our community to mingle, discover common ground and learn from each other," she said.

“Earlier this year, Council signed the Victorian Aged Friendly Declaration and this partnership is a working example of what creating an age-friendly community is all about."

Age-friendly communities:

• Encourage active ageing and optimise opportunities
• Recognise the great diversity of our older population
• Promote inclusion of older people and respect their decisions and lifestyle choices
• Involve service providers, businesses, community leaders and older people in Planning to meet ageing-related needs
• Enhance quality of life for people as they age
• Benefit the whole community

The Social Support Chess Group is part of Manningham City Council’s Aged and Disability Support Services. Council is a provider of Commonwealth Home Support Programme services. 

The objective of these services is to keep older people independent, active and connected to their community.

Manningham Council has reached agreement with VicRoads for Council to take over management of King Street, between Blackburn Road and Victoria Street.

In a swap, VicRoads will in turn take over responsibility for the management of a section of Blackburn Road.

It is expected that the eastern section of King Street will come under the care and management of Council by the end of August 2016.

Manningham Mayor Cr Paul McLeish said the transfer of responsibility to Council means that the community’s long wait is over and there is now certainty that this section of King Street will finally be reconstructed.

“This is wonderful news for the community as King Street is a vital piece in the local road network that is ranked as the highest priority for construction in Council’s Link Road Strategy 2014.”

“King Street is basically a rural road in an urban environment, and Council, the King Street Reference Panel and the community have been advocating to the State Government for more than ten years to get this road upgraded to urban standard.”

Council has therefore budgeted to start upgrading this section of King Street in 2016/17, continuing works into the following financial year.

“The proposed road improvements and streetscape works will enhance the operation of the road, improving traffic, pedestrian and cyclist safety, as well as residential amenity. So it is great news that Council has been able to strike a deal that will finally enable construction to commence,” he said.

Under Council’s Contributory Projects Policy, Council will fund all costs associated with the upgrade of King Street, except for landscaping works, street trees, vehicle crossings not presently constructed, and 25 per cent of the cost of the footpath on the southern side of the street.

The preliminary estimated cost of the project is $6.75 million, with only $371,000 to be recovered from abutting owners through a proposed Special Charge.

“Council will fund 94 per cent of the project cost. When compared to other municipalities, this is a generous policy position that Council is offering,” he said.

Manningham Council and the local community celebrated Australia Day with a traditional Citizenship Ceremony, including honouring two outstanding citizens for their contributions to our City.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert, announced that the 2017 Citizen of the Year is Mr Ronald Twining and the Young Citizen of the Year is Ms Samantha Lane.

The Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year awards are administered by the Manningham City Council, with the actual awards supplied by the Australia Day Committee of Victoria.

Manningham Mayor Cr Kleinert said that the awards recognise the real unsung heroes of the Manningham community, the people who go above and beyond to demonstrate service to others and achieve fantastic results.

“Manningham Council is very proud to present Ronald and Samantha with these honours and we look forward to their continued contributions to improve the lives of so many. 

“We are very fortunate to have this level of commitment within our community, which reflects and embraces the spirit of Manningham and Australia Day.

“On behalf of Council I congratulate Ronald and Samantha for these exemplary achievements and being wonderful role models for us,” she said.

Citizen of the Year, Mr Ronald Twining

A Templestowe resident for more than 28 years, Ronald has served as Justice of the Peace in Manningham since 1983 and has attended to the needs of local residents for more than three decades.

A former Criminal Investigation Branch Fraud Squad Detective with Victoria Police, Ronald is currently President of Templestowe RSL and has conducted Anzac and Remembrance Day services for the past 12 years. A much-loved neighbour and member of the local community, Ronald’s commitment to Manningham in many areas has been outstanding.

Ronald spent 13 years with the Victorian Police as a senior detective and also made great contributions to commerce for 20 years as National General Manager in Australia’s biggest transport company.

Ronald has been a proud recipient of the Victorian Police Service Medal, Australian National Service and Australian Defence Medal.

Young Citizen of the Year, Ms Samantha Lane

Samantha has volunteered for the last six years with Doncaster All Abilities Basketball, an organisation and competitive event catering to people with intellectual or physical disabilities.

It is the largest competition of its type in Australia and Samantha has been integral to its organisation, due to her passion for helping those with special needs. She is also a committee member and basketball coach, assisting those with disabilities where possible to improve their physical and social skills.

In addition, Samantha has organised self-development workshops to provide employment guidance to senior players – giving up her weekends, paid work and personal time to take on this mentoring role.

These community achievements were all carried out while pursuing a Bachelor of Education and part-time job, demonstrating her outstanding commitment towards improving the lives of others.

Manningham Council is encouraging local primary school students to get active this October and invites schools to register for VicHealth’s Walk to School month 2016.

Walk to School month encourages primary students across Victoria to walk, ride or scooter to and from school to kick-start healthy travel habits during October.

The VicHealth initiative complements Council’s Active Travel Program, which supports schools to encourage their students to get active on their commute to school, as a way to stay fit and healthy, while reducing traffic congestion around schools.

Nine Manningham schools have registered so far, and there is still time to get involved. Schools can register to participate by visiting www.walktoschool.vic.gov.au/schools

With the assistance of a grant from VicHealth, throughout October Council will support participating schools with a range of walk to school activities, healthy breakfast events, competitions and prizes.

For more information about Council’s Active Travel Program, visit www.manningham.vic.gov.au/active-travel, call 9840 9303 or email eepadmin@manningham.vic.gov.au

Manningham Active Kids on Facebook

Council’s Manningham Active Kids Facebook group is a great way for families, schools and community groups to stay up to date with the range of activities on offer for children in Manningham.

To join the group, visit www.facebook.com/groups/ManninghamActiveKids