Hello from the gifted artists of Araluen - Banyule City Council

anner
BANYULE
May/June
2013
PAGE 2
What’s Hatched in
Banyule?
PAGE 4
Competition for kids
PAGE 7
Friends beat about
the bush
PAGE 9, 10 & 11
Mayor’s Column and
Ward Rounds
PAGE 16
Accessible homes
PAGE 18
New playgrounds
bring fun for kids

2
Banyule Council has opened its first permanent
home for the arts, Hatch Contemporary Arts
Space.
Its inaugural exhibition, Home - Reframing Craft and
Domesticity, runs until 11 May (Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm) and
will be followed by Hello, featuring the work of artists
from Araluen (see below right) from 23 May to 15 June.
Hatch occupies the previous Banyule Arts Space, a mini
art deco theatre that was hired out for functions and
used by Council for occasional exhibitions and events.
With its rebirth as Hatch, the foyer and main hall were
renovated to reveal and highlight its art deco features
and better equip it as a gallery space.
Banyule Mayor Cr Wayne Phillips said the arts played
a significant and important role in community life.
“Hatch provides a space for people to reflect, discuss
and critically debate diverse arts practices and their
relationship with and contribution to contemporary life.”
Hatch will feature exhibitions, workshops, performances,
and artists in residence and while located in Ivanhoe (14
Ivanhoe Parade), most exhibitions will include extensive
satellite programs across Banyule.
The soon to be formed Hatch Contemporary Arts Space
Advisory Group will help guide artistic programming and
management of the space.
Hello from the gifted
artists of Araluen
Vibrant drawings, paintings and mixed media
pieces representing the diverse styles and
personalities of 25 artists from Araluen go on
show from 23 May to 15 June.
Exhibiting creativity at home
Home, the inaugural exhibition, attracted Eddy Carroll,
above, as Hatch Studio Artist in residence, while another
internationally exhibited artist Irianna Kanellopoulou,
from Heidelberg Heights, also featured her works, which
are pictured below and on the Banyule Banner cover.
Supported by Banyule Council, the artists are
presenting their first large scale show, Hello. Araluen
offers support services to adults with intellectual
disabilities that enhance choice, independence and
social inclusion.
Your are invited to join the artists for the Opening, at
6pm on 23 May at Hatch, 14 Ivanhoe Parade, Ivanhoe.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.
Artwork:
Russian
Wooden
Church, Kizhi
Island by Tony
Allan.
Acrylic, soft
pastel and ink.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
3
Sowing seeds of healing
A green thumb and a healing heart are bringing
benefits to patients at Austin Health and have
set Steven Wells on a career that is literally and
figuratively flourishing.
Thanks to Steven’s passion for a greener, more healing
environment, Austin Health won the business category
of the Cities of Darebin and Banyule Sustainability
Awards. Steven was also named ABC Gardening Australia’s
Gardener of the Year 2012.
The sustainability awards, part of Banyule’s Sustainable
Homes and Communities Program, recognised and
celebrated the many achievements of residents,
community groups, schools and businesses in working
towards an environmentally sustainable future.
Steven trained as a nurse, going on to study horticulture
and finally combining his two loves to become a
Horticultural Therapist and the Gardens and Grounds
Project Officer at Austin Health, where he also nurses.
“We are providing places and areas for patients, visitors
and staff to have respite, recovery and a chance to leave
a clinical hospital setting and sit in a more natural garden
environment that provides many benefits,” Steven said.
“Yes, there is an environmental benefit but also physical,
emotional and psychological benefits. As people we are
connected to plants.”
Steven has now created numerous gardens across Austin
Health, all funded by donations and non-operational
budgets, with 4,000 plantings of indigenous, natives and
exotics, all on a non to minimal watering plan.
Steven in the garden he recently created outside Heidelberg
Rehabilitation Hospital’s café, which has 550 plants, including
crepe myrtle trees, exotic, native and succulent plants, with rustcoloured
steel screens and metal dragon flies.
He has also created an extensive sensory and therapeutic
garden surrounding all wards at the Royal Talbot
Rehabilitation Centre.
An added benefit of the greening program is its use of
long term unemployed people from the local community
through Avocare, a not-for-profit community based
organisation, to plant and develop the new gardens.
Steven hopes to inspire others to use plants and green
spaces to improve the environment and benefit the
community.
Casting on for World Knit in Public Day
Banyule is celebrating the world’s largest knitter
run event, which is designed to demonstrate that
knitting can be a great
community activity.
Bring your knitting and have a yarn (pardon
the pun) as you knit one, purl one and meet
new friends. Knitters of all abilities are welcome.
FREE sessions
Sat 8 June, 2pm-4pm
WaterMarc, 1 Flintoff St,
Greensborough
Wed 12 June, 10am-Noon
Taffy’s on Looker, 15 Looker Rd, Montmorency
Tues 11 June, 10am-Noon
Bien Food, 37 Greville Rd,
Rosanna
Tues 11 June, 1pm-3pm
Watsonia Library, Ibbotson St
Thurs, 13 June, 10am-Noon
Café Kokko, 187 Upper Heidelberg Rd,
Ivanhoe
Bring your knitting and have coffee
and cake on us! Book with
Customer Service on
9490 4222.

4
Gearing up for a
great Seniors Festival
Mini-grants open
If you are 60 or over, it’s time to start preparing for another exciting,
jam-packed Banyule Seniors Festival Program throughout October.
From June 10, community groups in Banyule are invited to apply for grants of
up to $200 to fund a Festival activity or event that engages 60+ residents and
supports increased community connectedness.
The grants close on 12 July. Application forms: www.banyule.vic.gov.au or contact
Jill Taylor on 9457 9971 or via jill.taylor@banyule.vic.gov.au
Competition
honours older
people
Council is running an art competition for children
and young people to recognise the special older
people in their life - it could be their nanny or pop,
a neighbour or the school crossing supervisor!
The competition is open to primary and high school
students. Students must provide a piece of artwork,
along with words either on the artwork or presented
separately, expressing what is special
about the older person/s (aged 60+)
in their life.
Artworks must be submitted on A4 or A3 paper:
• Post to Art Competition, Banyule City Council,
PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079; or
• Hand delivered, marked Art Competition, to
Council’s Ivanhoe, Rosanna or Greensborough
service centres.
The prizes in each category (primary and high school)
are: 1 st prize - iPod Touch; 2 nd prize – iPod Shuffle; 3 rd
Prize – Family Swim and Slide Pass to WaterMarc.
Holly, aged 6, drew herself, left, with her Nan.
“My Nan is special because she picks
me up when my Mummy can’t.”
A selection of artworks will be displayed
at Festival events and the winners of the
primary and high school categories will
be featured in the Nov/Dec Banner.
The competition is open from
1 May to 31 August to primary and
secondary students residing in or going
to school in Banyule. All entries must
include the name, age and address of the
artist, as well as the name and phone
number of their parents/guardians,
clearly marked on the back of the
artwork.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
5
Become a Wiser
Driver for free
If you are aged over 60, join our Wiser Driver
course and update your knowledge and skills
for free.
Being able to get out and about is important for an
active, independent life. The majority of older drivers
are rightly proud of a good driving record and old age in
itself is no reason to restrict driving.
However, as with drivers of any age, taking the time to
upgrade knowledge and build on experience, and doing
this in the company of peers, can be very helpful.
Statistics show that as roads get busier, older motorists
and pedestrians are more likely to be at real risk should
an accident occur and are also more likely to be injured.
Council’s free Wiser Driver course runs over a 4-week
period on Wednesday mornings, 10am to Noon, June or
September, at our Rosanna Customer Service Centre.
No driving lessons or tests are involved and the
atmosphere is friendly and informal, thought provoking
and challenging. Groups are kept to between 10 and 15
people, with plenty of time for discussion. A delicious
morning tea is provided.
If you would like to attend the Wiser Driver course, call
Customer Service on 9490 4222. Why not invite a friend
or relative to join you?
Say NO to the abuse of older people
On 15 June, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day,
wear a purple ribbon and let older people in our
community know that they have the right to live
without fear and abuse.
This international day is designed to raise awareness of
the abuse of the elderly. An estimated 6% of Australia’s
older population experiences abuse on a regular basis, a
number expected to rise as the population ages.
Elder abuse is any act that harms older people, which is
carried out by someone they know and should be able to
trust, such as family and friends.
Harm can be financial,
psychological, physical,
sexual or social, including
mistreatment and neglect.
Financial abuse is the most
prevalent form of abuse and
is the illegal, improper use or
mismanagement of a person’s
money, financial resources,
property or other possessions.
Older women are two to three times
more likely to experience abuse.
Where can older people get
help and advice?
Seniors Rights Victoria is a free
and confidential telephone and
advisory service providing:
• Information and referral
• Advocacy and support
• Legal advice
• Community and
professional education
More information: Seniors Rights Victoria
on 1300 368 821 between 10am to 5pm, Monday to
Friday, or via info@seniorsrights.org.au.
Visit their website at www.seniorsrights.org.au.

6
Advocating for
the community
Banyule Council regularly advocates on behalf of
the community across a range of issues and to
organisations, other communities, and State and
Federal Governments.
By representing the interests of the community in a
range of forums, Council has the capacity to attract
additional resources to the municipality and resolve
complex issues affecting the city’s liveability.
Twice a year, a report is provided to Council Meetings on
how Banyule has advocated over the previous six months
on behalf of the community. In the latest report, advocacy
initiatives included:
• Involvement in the Doncaster Rail Local
Government Group, which commissioned a report
on accessibility and alternative funding mechanisms
for the rail link options.
• Involvement in a Youth Volunteering Forum to
encourage organisations to provide increased
volunteer opportunities for young people.
• Advocating to the Department of Primary
Industries, Local Members of Parliament, the
Municipal Association of Victoria and the Victorian
Local Government Association about the Domestic
Animal Management Act 1994 and associated
Standards for Restricted Breed Dogs legislation.
Council is seeking to tighten up the Act in relation
to restricted breeds and dog attacks.
• Involvement in lobbying State Government in
relation to cost shifting to local government
in areas such as library funding, Home and
Community Care, and Maternal and Child Health,
which are adding to Council’s costs.
• A submission to the Federal Government’s Joint
Parliamentary Committee on the Constitutional
Recognition of Local Government, supporting the
Federal Government to have power to provide
funding directly to local government where it is in
the national interest.
For many of the issues of concern to residents, such
as transport, health and education, Council is not the
service provider but plays a major role in representing, at
all levels of government and business, the wider interests
of the Banyule community.
To read the full advocacy report, visit
www.banyule.vic.gov.au/advocacy
Managing
our pets
Companion animals play an important
part in people’s lives and pets that are well
managed cause few problems.
Council is developing a new four-year Domestic
Animal Management Plan in accordance with the
Victorian Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Amongst other things, it outlines programs, services
and strategies to promote and encourage responsible
ownership of dogs and cats, minimise the risk of attacks
by dogs, address over population, encourage animal
registration, and effectively identify dangerous dogs,
menacing dogs and restricted breeds, ensuring they are
kept in compliance with the Act and regulations.
The Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan can be
viewed at www.banyule.vic.gov.au/animals or at our
Customer Service Centres. It is available for community
comment until 31 May.
Feedback can be provided by sending an email to
enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au or Banyule City Council,
PO Box 51, Ivanhoe 3079, attention Jenny Cotterell.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
7
Friends reserve
best for St Helena
In August, a dedicated group of volunteers
celebrate the 21 st birthday of the Friends of St
Helena Bush Reserve.
They are just one of eight friends groups ensuring
that some of Banyule’s most significant bushlands and
reserves are kept safe and pristine for future generations.
The two-hectare reserve is managed by Banyule’s
Bushland Management Unit and is a box-stringy bark
woodland, a forest type widespread before urban
development. It is of state significance, especially for the
many orchid species that flower in winter and spring.
On the fourth Sunday of each month, the Friends of St
Helena Bush Reserve meet for two hours to assist in
regeneration activities including weed control, direct
seeding, and Council supervised ecological burns.
They also provide expert knowledge about local flora;
generate ideas for future management of the reserve;
co-ordinate an annual working bee with the Australasian
Native Orchid Society; and monitor rare and threatened
species.
Long-time member, Linda Rogan, loves the reserve, with
its wide range of flora. “For me, the Emerald Greenhood
Orchid is my favourite but this is rivalled by the sheer
number of native species, including the small grass tree. In
recent years we have seen progress toward more native
Too much silverbeet and
no lemons??
Come and swap your home grown produce,
seedlings, recipes, preserves and growing hints
with home gardeners at Banyule’s food swaps.
Left to right, Janine, Wayne, Linda and Garry share good
times and a love of St Helena Bush Reserve.
plants and fewer weeds,” she said.
“I love working with others who value our native flora,
and also learning about flora and fauna. We are making
a significant difference in the continued survival of this
unique bush reserve.”
Other groups within Banyule are: Friends of Darebin
Creek, Friends of Montmorency, Friends of Plenty
River, Friends of Salt Creek, Friends of Wilson Reserve,
Riverland Conservation Society and Warringal
Conservation Society.
If you are interested in joining a Friends group, contact
Banyule’s Bushland Management Unit on 9490 4222.
It’s a great way to redistribute your excess and keep
your fresh food supply local, low carbon and low cost.
1st Saturday, 10am-11am
Olympic Village, Moresby Court, Heidelberg West
3081@transitionbanyule.org.au
1st Sunday, 10am-11.30am
Montmorency Primary School, 62A Rattray Road
julief.davidd@gmail.com
2nd Saturday, 10am-11.30am
Poulter Park, Pope Place, Greensborough
rachelmbishop@hotmail.com
3rd Saturday, 11am-Noon
Macleod Park Rotunda, near Railway Station, Macleod
sustainablemacleod@transitionbanyule.org.au
4th Saturday, 10am-11.30am
Edendale, 30 Gastons Road, Eltham
michele14burton@gmail.com

8
Breathing easier in Banyule
Children’s playgrounds and events run or
sponsored by Banyule Council are now smoke
free thanks to a new policy designed to support
and promote good health.
The Smoke Free Policy follows community support for
introducing smoke free outdoor areas across Banyule.
Between August 2011 and November 2012, Council
sought community feedback via online surveys, postcard
surveys, the Banyule 2011 Household survey and at the
2012 Malahang Festival.
At the Council Meeting held on 4 March 2013, all
Councillors supported the new Banyule Smoke Free
Outdoor Areas Policy, which makes the following smoke
free:
• Along Greensborough Walk and Town Square.
• Within 10 metres of children’s playground
equipment.
• At all events run or sponsored by Banyule Council,
such as the recent Kids ArtyFarty Fest, pictured
right.
• Within 10 metres of the entrances of specified
Council owned buildings.
Council is undertaking further work and consultation
with sporting clubs, schools, premises with outdoor
dining on footpaths and skate park users to ascertain
support for extended smoke free outdoor areas and
encouraging a “do it yourself” campaign.
What you said:
“I do understand the ‘smoker’ point of view in
regards to freedom but it impacts on others,
including children and does dictate to us, the
non-smoker, when we are forced to breathe
their smoke.”
“Why should I, my unborn child or my children,
be subjected to inhaling second hand smoke
just because we are in public when there is now
so much evidence about the potential harm
involved.”
“Everyone has the right to enjoy the great
outdoors without breathing in smoke.”
According to Quit Victoria, smoking is the highest cause
of avoidable death in Banyule. In addition, cigarette butts
are also an environmental issue as they can take five
years to break down. They are the most common item
found on Clean Up Australia days.
Based on the experience of other States and local
councils, smoke free policies are self-enforcing and focus
on public health benefits and education rather than
punitive actions.
Council is beginning a public education campaign, which
will include the progressive roll out of signage.
More information about smoke free areas is available at
www.banyule.vic.gov.au.
World
No Tobacco Day
31 May is World No Tobacco Day, which highlights
the health risks associated with tobacco use and
advocates for effective policies to reduce tobacco
consumption.
Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause
of death globally and currently kills one in 10 adults
worldwide.
Of the 6 million people killed each year, more than
600,000 are non-smokers dying from breathing
second-hand smoke.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
Mayor’s Column
9
Your views help shape our future
Over the past few months, we’ve been asking you
about how we can make Banyule an even better
place to live, work and play.
We were delighted with the number of people who
responded (1,200) as well as with the quality of comments
and ideas that we received from residents, traders and
community groups and organisatons.
Your feedback through this most recent consultation process
and over the last year has helped us form our ideas for
some major decisions for the future of Banyule City Council,
including:
• Implementing a major environmental initiative changing
over our streetlights to energy saving globes, saving
over 19% of Council’s greenhouse gas emmissions and
providing future savings on energy costs.
• Finishing our major stormwater harvesting projects
at Kalparin Gardens, Chelsworth Park and DeWinton
Park.
• Starting construction of the Stage 1 upgrade of Ivanhoe
Aquatic and Fitness Centre.
• Trying to secure the previous State School sites in
Bellfield and Heidelberg West to refurbish the stadium
and asssociated community facilities and return them
to community use.
• Advocating to all levels of government to stop cost
shifting and increase focus on Banyule’s transport
issues.
The final draft of our City Plan 2013-2017, which has
incorporated feedback to date, will be on public exhibition
from 7 May to 5 June, providing
the last chance for you to
comment if critical issues
remain. The document will
be available at our Customer
Service Centres at Ivanhoe,
Greensborough and Rosanna,
Banyule’s libraries and online at
www.banyule.vic.gov.au/future
Submissions will only be accepted in writing to: Peter Utri,
Manager Organisational Performance, PO Box 51, Ivanhoe
3079, or via email at cityplan@banyule.vic.gov.au. Council
must adopt the plan by 30 June 2013.
On behalf of my fellow Councillors, I would like to thank you
for all your enthusiasm and willingness to provide us with
what was quite often very detailed ideas and comments. We
are fortunate to have a community which is so ready to work
with us – on so many levels – to ensure that Banyule remains
a great place to live, work and play well into the future.
From this edition of the Banner, I and my fellow Councillors
are bringing you some observations about news and issues
in our respective wards. This feature - Ward Rounds - will
always follow my column and is one of a number of new
ways we will be communicating with you about the activities
and issues we are involved in within Banyule. Councillor
contact details are also listed and I encourage you to contact
your Councillor if you have ideas, comments, or concerns
about anything in your
neighbourhood.
Cr Wayne Phillips
Mayor
Ward Rounds - Councillor observations
Cr Wayne Phillips, Beale Ward
Late last year, Council undertook a
feasibility study on establishing a number
of fenced off-lead dog exercise areas in
Banyule’s parks to cater for the growing
demand for spaces where people can
safely exercise dogs off lead.
After examining a large number of parks,
three were identified as having great
potential to service this growing need,
including Malcolm Blair Reserve in St
Helena. This project will go ahead, subject
to the approval of appropriate authorities,
in the coming financial year.
During the community consultation,
90% of survey respondents in St Helena
and Briar Hill supported this initiative,
including Andrew, pictured here with his
dog Diesel and myself at the Reserve.
This project will also alleviate pressure
on the adjacent baseball ground which is
currently heavily used as an informal dog
exercise area.
Depending on this project’s success,
Council may consider further off-lead
exercise areas in future years.

10
Ward Rounds - observation
Cr Steven Briffa, Hawdon Ward
Recently, I launched the 2013 Diamond
Valley Relay for Life at Willinda Park,
Greensborough, which raised $130,000
for the Cancer Council.
I, like many others, have lost a loved one
to cancer. Before my mother’s death, aged
only 52, she requested no flowers or
anything special for her funeral. Instead,
she wanted family and friends to support
the Cancer Council to find a cure.
Thirty-four teams (1,100 participants)
took part in this 21-hour relay, which over
five years has raised almost $500,000.
This incredible effort is in no small part
due to the dedication of Chairperson, Phil
Ciravolo, pictured here with me. After
five years, Phil is retiring and I thank him
for his inspiring leadership and encourage
others to consider this role.
I also congratulate the top fundraising
teams - Holy Trinity College ($11,600),
Team Kermit ($10,700) and Montmorency
Secondary College ($10,600) – and
everyone else who volunteered or took
part in this great community event.
Cr Mark Di Pasquale, Bakewell Ward
What’s Cookin’ in Bakewell: Superannuation
debt, the Fire Services Levy, the 4-year
City Plan and budget - how’s the start of
your year? Mine has been busy to say the
least. After my election I’ve been finding
out what the previous council has been
up to. In all, I’m satisfied and it seems
the community is too, with the latest
community satisfaction report placing
Banyule as the second most liked council
in the metro area!
Councillors have been meeting regularly
to discuss the budget. Having run a small
business for many years, I’m definitely
bringing experience to the table, including
the need to evaluate every expense
(outgoings) and wisely allocate all income
(stretch every dollar as far as it can go!).
I’m impressed with the level of activity
within our community and participation
at the many festivals and events, including
the Kids ArtyFarty Fest, which my
daughters Jessica and Elouise, pictured
with me, enjoyed so very much.
I look forward to serving you. Don’t
hesitate to contact me. See you out there!
Cr Rick Garotti, Grimshaw Ward
As a new Councillor I am thoroughly
enjoying getting to know the community.
At a recent community forum, I was
impressed with the good ideas generated
by the community as part of the
consultation process to develop our
City Plan 2013-2017, other key plans, and
budget.
Community input is important in all we
do. I’m currently working on the Loyola
Reserve Facility Development Plan. While
the ground is home to Bundoora United
Cricket Club and Watsonia Baseball Club,
this project is also aimed at encouraging
wider participation in sport and physical
activity, including girls, women and people
with special needs, and providing a more
inclusive, welcoming and safe environment.
In April, it was my privilege to return to
my old school, Loyola College, and reflect
on my experiences to date as a public
servant and growing up in the Ward that
I now serve. I am pictured with Principal
Joseph Favrin and School Captains
Catherine Nguyen and Troy Flores, who
are both in Year 12.
Cr Wayne Phillips
Mayor
Beale Ward
0408 999 189
wayne.philips@
banyule.vic.gov.au
Cr Craig Langdon
Deputy Mayor
Olympia Ward
0401 097 032
craig.langdon@
banyule.vic.gov.au
Cr Steven Briffa
Hawdon Ward
0401 097 032
steven.briffa@
banyule.vic.gov.au

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
11
s from your Councillors
Cr Craig Langdon, Olympia Ward
Just over one year ago, a group of
Heidelberg West residents including Betty
Tydeman, pictured here, established the
Buna Reserve Community Garden in
Heidelberg West.
It is now a thriving garden where
residents from a range of cultural
and religious backgrounds grow their
own fruit and vegetables in a friendly,
supportive environment. It has also
transformed a previously barren reserve
into an attractive garden of plenty.
We have learnt valuable lessons, including
the need to build narrower plots to
make it easier, particularly for the elderly,
to tend their crops.
The garden is managed by a community
committee, largely comprising residents
with the help of a part-time community
garden co-ordinator.
I am now eager to see two other
community gardens established, one in
Bellfield next to the Community Centre
and one in Heidelberg Heights next to
the Scout Hall in Outhwaite Road.
Cr Tom Melican, Ibbott Ward
Rosanna Road and its use as the defacto
missing link between the Eastern Freeway
and Western Ring Road continues to be
of critical concern for residents.
It is not designed to carry such a high
volume of cars and large trucks 24-hours
a day and is a nightmare for residents and
a serious safety hazard for pedestrians
and road users. Surrounding streets are
now rat runs as motorists avoid the
constant traffic jams on Rosanna Road.
Despite intensive lobbying and the
suggestion of short term solutions, such
as speed reductions and curfews, neither
political party nor VicRoads are willing
to take any action to increase safety and
resident amenity. As a community we
need to continue demanding an outcome
and support whichever political party
is willing to take this issue seriously
and develop short, medium and long
term solutions. It is not good enough to
promise some action in 20 years. We
need solutions now and I call on the
political parties to provide a solution
or risk losing community support.
Cr Jenny Mulholland, Griffin Ward
Events, festivals and the arts enrich
community life and I’m delighted that we
have launched Banyule’s first permanent
arts facility, Hatch Contemporary Arts
Space (page 2). Hatch, which will host
exhibitions, performances, workshops,
residencies, satellite exhibitions and more,
will foster creative expression and social
connection through the arts, as well as
celebrating our cultural diversity.
This Autumn we also launched our first
seasonal event guide, The Little Banyule
Book of Things to Do and I hope you
can join me in celebrating two special
events, which promote an inclusive and
supportive community.
IDAHO Day on 17 May raises awareness
about the impact homophobia has on gay,
lesbian, bisexual, intersex and transgender
communities. A morning tea will be held
at 10.30am at our Ivanhoe Customer
Service Centre. On 28 May at 10am, we
celebrate National Reconciliation Week
with a smoking and flag raising ceremony,
also at our Ivanhoe centre. Please join me.
Cr Mark Di
Pasquale
Bakewell Ward
0481 002 299
mark.dipasquale@
banyule.vic.gov.au
Cr Rick Garotti
Grimshaw Ward
0402 846 845
rick.garotti@
banyule.vic.gov.au
Cr Tom Melican
Ibbott Ward
0413 043 015
tom.melican@
banyule.vic.gov.au
Cr Jenny
Mulholland
Griffin Ward
0413 986 912
jenny.mulholland@
banyule.vic.gov.au

12
Improving the protection
of large trees
Council is proposing to improve the protection of
large trees in Banyule.
A planning permit is currently required to remove or
lop large trees in areas affected by a temporary tree
protection control called the Vegetation Protection
Overlay Schedule 5 (VPO5). Council is now proposing to
make the VPO5 permanent.
The VPO5, which was introduced into the Banyule
Planning Scheme in November 2010, protects trees by
requiring a planning permit application to remove or
lop trees over 12 metres high, and/or with a diameter of
more than 40cm at 1.4m above the trunk base.
Planning applications for trees can be lodged online
using Council’s EARTH system at
www.banyule.vic.gov.au/earth
The VPO5 is due to expire on 30 November 2013
and Council is proposing to improve this control
and make it a permanent part of the Banyule
Planning Scheme through Amendment C80.
The proposed Amendment affects residentially
zoned properties in Bundoora, Greensborough,
Watsonia, Watsonia North, Macleod, Yallambie,
Viewbank, Rosanna, Heidelberg, Heidelberg Heights,
Heidelberg West, Bellfield and Ivanhoe, as shown above
right or in more detailed maps on our website.
We invite your comments
The proposed amendment is on exhibition from
Thursday 9 May 2013 until Thursday 13 June 2013 2013.
It can be viewed:
• During office hours at our Rosanna, Greensborough
and Ivanhoe Service Centres.
• On our website at www.banyule.vic.gov.au.
• At Planning Scheme Amendments Online www.
dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/planningschemes/amendments-to-planning-schemes/amendmentsonline.
12m high
and/or
diameter
of 40cm
at 1.4m
above
the tree
base
Unsure if this affects you? Want more information?
Contact Klover Kane in Strategic Planning on 9457 9830
or via strategic.planning@banyule.vic.gov.au
Formal submissions to the amendment must be made
in writing and received by Council no later than 5pm
on Thursday 13 June 2013. Submissions must be clearly
marked ‘Amendment C80’ and sent to: Klover Kane,
Strategic Planner, Banyule City Council, PO Box 51,
Ivanhoe 3079

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
13
Improving tree health around your home
Permeable paving on driveways or paths, which
allows water and air into tree roots, is just one
way you can improve the health of trees.
The widespread use of impervious paving surfaces, such
as concrete, around homes leads to trees missing out on
precious rainwater, which runs off driveways and ends up
in stormwater drains.
Supporting strong, healthy trees helps protect our urban
environment by removing nitrogen and other pollution
loads from stormwater.
The permeable pavement below allows water to penetrate
to the soil below.
In heavy downpours, excess stormwater is also more
likely to flood drainage systems and overflow into local
creeks and rivers taking litter and pollution with it.
This hostile growing environment, characterised by
limited ground water and poor aeration, can lead
to stunted growth and trees that are easily drought
stressed and susceptible to pests and disease.
Another benefit of permeable driveways and pavements
is that by allowing water infiltration and gaseous
exchange, the underlying soil also provides an improved
rooting environment similar to a natural soil surface.
Permeable pavements and driveways comprise a
permeable surface layer, such as porous asphalt or
concrete, or clay or concrete blocks, on top of an
aggregate storage layer of crushed stone or gravel which
stores water before it infiltrates to the underlying soil or
is discharged towards a piped drainage system.
Bowling for 100 years
The City of Heidelberg Bowling Club is
celebrating its 100 th birthday in August this year
with a range of events including a Centenary
Bowls Tournament and dinner.
The club’s genesis was on 18 August 1913 at a meeting in
the Heidelberg Presbyterian Church Hall. John May, the
founding President took the helm until 1949, apart from
a break between 1917 and 1926.
In December 1914, a pavilion and four rink green was
opened, with electricity, telephone, gas and sewerage
connected between 1915 and 1922.
Then and now: The Club, circa 1927, photo courtesy Heidelberg
Historical Society, and today.
The club, which has 140 members, now has two synthetic
greens, as well as a fourrink green in front of the clubhouse
and an 8-rink green, opened in 1954, on the west of
Stradbroke Avenue. Social bowls are played on Monday
afternoon, Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon.
More information:
www.cityofheidelbergbowlingclub.com.au

14
Awarding
youth work
The work of Banyule Youth Engagement Officer
Jessica Sayers in improving the health and
wellbeing of young people has been recognised by
the peak body for local government professionals
in Victoria, LGPro.
At the recent LGPro Awards for Excellence, Jessica, 27,
who has worked in local government youth services
for the past five years, was awarded a Young Achiever
(Finalist) Special Commendation.
Banyule Chief Executive Officer, Simon McMillan, said
Jessica was an exceptional young leader who was
passionate about her work and a great asset to Banyule
and its young people. “Jessica works tirelessly to improve
the health and wellbeing of young people. She connects
positively with young people, earning their trust and
respect, and develops and energises positive community
relationships,” he said.
Under Jessica’s leadership, participation in Council’s
Street Art program has grown. Jessica works with
participants, most of whom are disconnected and
disadvantaged, in planning, designing and delivering legal
community murals, while supporting them and addressing
their often complex needs.
Jessica also contributed to developing Council’s youth
website - www.banyuleyouth.com - and youth Facebook
page, and played a significant role in a number of youth
projects, including an innovative mediation process
between young people and traders in a local hotspot.
Jessica, who has a Diploma in Community Welfare, is
currently completing her Bachelor Degree in Youth
Work. She is pictured above with entrants in the Street
Art Awards, which were held in March.
Be neighbourly, keep off the grass
Banyule Council is cracking down on vehicles parked on
nature strips in response to concerns raised by residents
and shared by Council.
The Banyule wide blitz will improve pedestrian safety and reduce
damage to nature strips and underground services, like drains and
cabling, which are not designed to handle the weight of vehicles.
“It is illegal under State Government road rules and we have no
discretion but to take action when parked cars create dangerous
situations. Parking on nature strips can block sight of oncoming
traffic making it more difficult for neighbours to exit their driveway
safely,” the Mayor, Cr Wayne Phillips, said. “Pedestrian safety is also
reduced, especially for children who are unable to see over or
around vehicles parked in this way. For people who are mobility
impaired and families with young children, vehicles parked on nature
strips also cause accessibility issues.”
Cr Phillips said the repair bill for the damage to nature strips and
underground services is picked up by the entire community.
The maximum fine for parking on nature strips is $85.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
15
Tribute to
visionary couple
Heidelberg Historical Society is running an
exhibition, Against the Forces, coinciding with the
Centenary of Canberra and focusing on Walter
Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin’s
contribution to Heidelberg.
The exhibition examines the life and work of this
talented architect and his partner, Marion Mahony Griffin.
Many complain that Canberra is a lifeless place - “six
suburbs in search of a city” - as Robert Menzies
condemned it. According to the Historical Society,
the Canberra we see today falls far short of the prizewinning
plan the couple drew in 1911 and whose
implementation was undermined by hostile politicians
and the public service.
The Chicago-born couple’s plan was not only a
breathtaking marriage of geometry to the natural
landscape, but was also to have given expression to the
workings of a democratic society.
Walter and Marion settled in Australia in 1914 and had
a successful private practice in Australia and later India.
They were closely associated with Heidelberg, designing
innovative houses, large and small, as well as idealistic
Exhibition curator and Heidelberg Historical Society member
Steven Barlow.
community plans featuring curved roads and shared open
spaces in a battle to preserve the natural environment.
The Museum is located in the historic Old Heidelberg
Court House in Jika Street near the main Burgundy
Street shopping area. The exhibition is open on Sundays
from 2pm to 5pm to the end of November 2013 or by
appointment for groups of over 10. Admission is $5 per
person, with children 12 and under free.
Contact: Heidelberg Historical Society 9455 2130.
Severe storms - are you ready?
Severe storms, which can be
accompanied by strong winds,
heavy rain, hail, thunder and
lightning, can happen anywhere
and at any time of the year.
Even though storms can damage
property, disrupt essential services
and cause life threatening situations,
many households are inadequately
prepared.
Creating an Emergency Plan takes
very little time and will help you
prepare household members,
safeguard property and protect
personal items.
To help you develop your plan,
both Red Cross and the Victoria
State Emergency Service (SES) have
created comprehensive guides taking
you through the process step-bystep.
For more information:
• SES - www.ses.vic.gov.au or phone
9684 6666.
• Red Cross - www.redcross.org.au
or phone 8327 7700.
If you or someone you care about
has special needs, the Red Cross also
has excellent emergency planning
advice for people with a disability
and their carers.
For more information, contact our
Emergency Management team on
9490 4222.

16
Homing in on
increased access
Council has established the Banyule Livable
Housing Project to influence and promote
accessible housing to better meet the changing
needs of the community, particularly the aged,
people with disabilities and families.
Cr Jenny Mulholland said the majority of houses being
built are not meeting the needs of a large section of
the population. “The inaccessible design of many new
and existing homes restricts access for people with a
disability, people who acquire an injury or experience
limited mobility due to aging. Despite this, there are
few regulatory requirements supporting the increased
provision of accessible housing in Victoria,” she said.
Rosie Bray, 81, of Greensborough, pictured here with
Cr Mulholland, is delighted with the planning changes.
Rosie modified her own home as she got older, including
installing sliding doors. “It has made all the difference to
me. It is a lot easier and I feel more confident.”
The Banyule Livable Housing project has established
guidelines which will be implemented through the
planning assessment process. This project will also
include staff training and community education. This new
approach started in April 2013 and will be reviewed in
August 2013.
From April, changes to Banyule’s planning requirements
incorporate a suite of features to ensure new homes
better meet the current and future needs of the entire
community including:
• Families with young children - 15% of Banyule
households include children 0-4 years of age.
• People who sustain a temporary injury limiting
their mobility.
• The ageing population - over 20% of Banyule’s
population is aged over 60.
• People with a disability and their families -
approximately 20% of Banyule residents identify as
having a disability.
Livable housing features improve new homes so that they
are:
• Easier to enter.
• Easier to navigate in and around.
• Designed to meet changing needs of residents who
may experience a disability, injury or change in the
family.
• Of increased value and easier to rent by providing
a marketing edge and appealing to a broader
demographic.
It is 22 times cheaper to incorporate basic livable design
features into new housing than retrofitting them.
More information: www.banyule.vic.gov.au or call
Council’s Access and Equity Social Planner on 9490 4310.
Granting access to
Banyule’s resources
Community groups are invited to apply for
subsidy grants to assist them in hiring Banyule
Council’s community centres, halls and venues, as
well as its two community buses.
Council recognises that rental fees associated with their
hire can sometimes limit opportunities for groups to
access its facilities and resources.
The Facility and Resource Subsidy Grants are provided
to enable a balanced and equitable approach to providing
subsidised access to all Council’s community resources.
Please note that these are not cash grants but a subsidy
grant that will reduce your hire fee.
Grants open early June 2013, closing 30 August 2013.
For more information: www.banyule.vic.gov.au (Services
for You - Grants) or contact the Community Hall and
Buses booking line on 9490 4302.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
Local libraries cook
up feast of events
MasterChef Julie Goodwin, pictured, is one of the
many highlights of a jam-packed May-June events
calendar at your local libraries.
17
Julie is the star attraction at a foodie gathering in Ivanhoe
Library on Monday 6 May from 4.30pm-5.30pm. Meet
Julie, who will also be signing and selling her cookbooks.
Other highlights on the events calendar include: award
winning author Barry Dickins talking about his new
book, writing life and artworks at Watsonia Library on
Wednesday, 22 May from 7pm-8pm; and the launch of
cartoonist Adam Wallace’s latest book - Better Out Than
in Number Twos - at Rosanna Library on Wednesday,
29 May from 4pm-5pm.
Full events calendar at www.yprl.vic.gov.au
Kids: build a
cardboard city
Be creative and have heaps of fun building a
cardboard city from used cardboard and other
recycled items.
Build houses, shops, cars, rainwater tanks, train
stations and even a whole community!
Where:
FREE family event.
Children must be
accompanied by an
adult at all times.
Refreshments will
be provided.
When:
Sunday 19 May 2013
2pm-5pm
WaterMarc Cultural Foyer between Main
Street and Flintoff Street, Greensborough
Bookings: Essential on 9490 4222
New phone number
for health centres
The new appointment number
for Banyule’s Maternal and Child
Health Centres is 9457 9990.
Banyule’s network of 11 Maternal and
Child Health Centres provides a range
of services to support families.
They include developmental
assessment, health education and
promotion, parentingeducation,
immunisation information, breast
feeding support, post natal
depression help and support, child
safety information, and support for
families in crisis.
Contact the service for an
appointment on 9457 9990
or for more information visit
www.banyule.vic.gov.au/mch
Join us today for events and news about your community
www.facebook.com/banyulecitycouncil

18
Out and about in
your parks
New playgrounds
Swinging, sliding, spinning and climbing is now even better
for children at playgrounds in Greensborough, Yallambie
and Viewbank.
As part of Council’s Playground Replacement Program,
new play equipment has been installed at Greensborough
War Memorial Park, Yallambie’s Streamline Reserve, and
Viewbank’s Price Park.
Community consultation was undertaken prior to
planning the new playgrounds, with many residents
highlighting the need for new and adventurous play
equipment.
Yallambie resident, Linda Price, is loving her new
playground, taking her children, Oliver, 3, and Zoe, 15
months, nearly every day. “There is something here that
is challenging for both of them,” she said. Oliver and Zoe
are pictured on this page enjoying the new equipment.
Tree pruning and planting
Council has a street tree pruning program, operating
on a two-year cycle, which also addresses its obligations
under the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance)
Regulations 2010 for street trees.
While residents can request Council to prune street
trees near them, this will only be done outside of the
two year cycle if trees pose a genuine safety risk. It is
against Council policy for residents to prune street trees
and penalties apply when this occurs.
Council also has an annual street tree planting program,
replacing 1,500 street trees each year. There are
approximately 70,000 street trees across Banyule, which
provide shelter, shade and wind protection, as well as
creating a more attractive and liveable environment.
Recently many residents in Banyule received notices from
their local electricity provider requesting the pruning
of trees on their property with branches growing too
close to overhead power lines. Trees that are on private
property are the responsibility of the land owner and
is therefore recommended that residents who have
received such a notice make arrangements to prune their
trees by contacting a professional tree care company.
Help stamp out dumping
Dumping of domestic and commercial rubbish
in the parks and streets of Banyule is on the
increase.
Dumping increases costs to Council, creates unsightly
areas and can cause physical and environmental hazards.
If you see people dumping rubbish, we encourage you to
report it to us, if possible taking note of the registration
number of any vehicles involved, on 9490 4222 or online
at www.banyule.vic.gov.au.

anyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222 19
Flu vaccinations
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an
epidemic disease causing widespread illness
every year.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for the general
population (from 6 months to adulthood) to reduce the
likelihood of contracting flu.
Flu immunisation is recommended - and free - for people
in known high risk groups. People in high risk groups
include those over 65, hospital patients and staff, some
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant
women, residents in nursing homes or other care
facilities, severe asthmatics and
anyone with a chronic illness.
Immunisation is also
recommended for people who
can put vulnerable people at
risk of infection.
For more information about
vaccination talk to your local
GP or visit
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au.
Business
networking
seminar
Learn the art of effective networking at our fun,
friendly and interactive session, which is being
held in collaboration with Small Business Victoria.
This event is ideal for any business owner wanting to
widen their circle of business contacts and will show you
how to create your 30-second “elevator” pitch, as well as
creating instant rapport with anyone, using networking
events strategically, and much more.
Date: Tuesday 21 May
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Venue: Meeting Room Two (Level One), Watermarc,
1 Flintoff Street, Greensborough
Cost: $20 per registration
Register online: www.banyulebusiness.com.au
Community Calendar - Events
8pm (matinees 2pm, 5 and 12 May)
2 May - 18 May
Heidelberg Theatre Company
August: Osage County by Tracy Letts
Multiple prize winning saga set in Mid-
West America - funny and bitingly sad.
36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna
Book www.htc.org.au or 9457 4117
2pm and 7.30pm
25 May
Heidelberg Choral Society
The Society and Box Hill Chorale will
present a selection of opera's most
stirring and uplifting choruses and arias.
Ivanhoe Girls Grammar Performing Arts
Centre, www.hcs.asn.au for ticket prices
10am - 11.30am
26 May
Dimensions of Wellness
Tammy Boatman, Olivia Newton-John
Wellness Centre, speaks about aspects
of wellness. Panel with questions.
Rosanna Baptist Church, Cnr Waiora Rd
and Churchill St, Heidelberg Heights
11am, 7 May and 4 June
Banyule View Club
7 May - Market Day Stall
4 June - Bill Robinson, travelogue talk
Greensborough RSL Main St,
Greensborough Tel: 9439 9965
Strength and Mobility Classes
Thursdays, 10.30am-11.30am
Gold Card holders covered by DVA,
otherwise $5 per session.
Watsonia RSL.
8pm, 29 June and 2.30pm 30 June
Heidelberg Symphony Orchestra
Trumpet Glory, with guest artist
Tristram Williams on trumpet.
More info and tickets at
www.heidelbergsymphony.com.au
Rosanna Weight Loss Achievers
Each Wed, 6.15pm - 7.30pm
Not for profit group meeting in
Community Room, Watsonia Library.
Advice and support to members.
8pm - 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13 July
Diamond Valley Singers
The Pirates of Penzance - famous songs
from this Gilbert and Sullivan classic.
www.dvsingers.org
Warrandyte High School Theatre
9439 7843 www.trybooking.com/CQEO
2pm, 30 June
Musical Kaleidoscope
Works by Mozart, Beethoven, Dvorak and
Smetana. Rosanna Uniting Church, Arden
Crescent. Bookings, information 9459 2595.

20
banyule.vic.gov.au | 9490 4222
Looking like
a muffin top?
We can help you get
in shape for less than
your daily coffee!
You get so much more at your
local Banyule Council leisure centre.
Compare and be amazed!
We help you reach your fitness goals
whatever shape you are in, with:
• individual assessments
• fully equipped gym - cardio
and strength equipment
• group fitness classes
• swimming, spa and sauna.
* Full gym memberships (12 month package)
equate to the low daily rate of approximately:
Adult Concession Teen/60+
Ivanhoe $2.67 $1.86 $1.60
Olympic $1.97 $1.38 $1.09
Join us
for less than
$2.70* a day
Call for a FREE tour!
Ivanhoe Aquatic &
Fitness Centre
170 Waterdale Rd, Ivanhoe
Call 9490 7111
Olympic Leisure Centre
15 Alamein Rd, Heidelberg
Call 9459 1193
Mention this ad when
you join for a free gift!
Rates
reminder
If you have recently been
granted a Pension by Centrelink
or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
and have not applied for the Pensioner
Rebate, please complete an application
form at either:
• www.banyule.vic.gov.au or
• one of Council’s three Service Centres
(Greensborough, Ivanhoe or Rosanna)
by 30 June 2013.
The maximum rebate for 2012-2013 is $198.
How to contact your Council
For all enquires please call
9490 4222
Fax: 9499 9475
Email: enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au
Website: www.banyule.vic.gov.au
If your hearing or speech is impaired,
you can call us through the National Relay
Service on 133 677 (TTY) or 1300 555 727
(ordinary handset) and ask for 9490 4222.
All correspondence to:
PO Box 51
Ivanhoe 3079
Council Service Centres:
Ivanhoe - 275 Upper Heidelberg Road
Rosanna - 44 Turnham Avenue
Greensborough - 9-13 Flintoff Street
All offices are open:
Monday to Friday 8.30am-5pm
Rosanna - Wednesday night until 7pm
Greensborough - Saturday 9am-noon
The Banner is produced by Banyule City
Council. For July/August community event
listings, pick up a form at any service centre
or email eventslisting@banyule.vic.gov.au
by 31 May 2013.