Page 1 Monash Bulletin December 2023 Monash says thank you 2023 Sir John Monash Awards Inside this issue: Parking in Glen Waverley Festive season decorations Playspace upgrade Mavericks call Monash home Page 2 Changes for Jack Edwards OLA If you like to run your dog off-leash at Oakleigh Jack Edwards Reserve – there is some changes to where and when you can now do this. Dogs are no longer allowed on the synthetic and turf pitches at any time. Dogs are not allowed in the spectator area surrounding the synthetic and turf pitches two hours before and after National Premier League Victoria games or when either pitch is being used for scheduled games or training, and must be on-leash in this area at all other times. shape.monash.vic.gov.au/jack-edwards-dogs There is plenty of free parking in Glen Waverley Following some recently completed works, level six of our Euneva Car Park in Glen Waverley has re-opened. There is roughly 60 extra free parking spaces available, and it is just a short walk from Euneva Avenue to Kingsway. Did you know we have more than 1,000 free parking spots in and around the Glen Waverley precinct? More about parking options while we're extending Bogong Car Park visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/bogong Next steps for Glen Waverley Civic Precinct project Following community consultation earlier this year, we are progressing work on a new civic precinct for Glen Waverley. Visit shape.monash.vic.gov.au to find out what happens next with the sale of the Central Car Park in Glen Waverley, which will help fund the project. Page 3 Message from Mayor Cr Tina Samardzija It has been an honour and privilege to serve you as Mayor of Monash this past year. It has been an extraordinary year of achievements, a year in which we have continued to deliver excellent services and programs for our community. When I became Mayor in November 2022, I spoke about the people who inspire me – those who see someone who needs helping, something that needs improving, and just get on and do it. They are not motivated by plaudits or credit. This year I have met so many of these people. Many of them were nominated for our Sir John Monash Awards held recently, and it was truly inspiring to hear their stories and the difference they make in the lives of others. Many of them were not, but they are still out there helping people and working for our community. This year, my focus was on continuing to provide Council services in an efficient and effective manner and ensuring spending on services and infrastructure represents the best value for money. An important part of being an effective organisation is including our migrant community in everything we do. I was proud to introduce Monash Connects, a program developed through Council Multicultural Advisory Committee, to build connections and understanding with and between our different migrant groups. I have also focused on improving facilities and programs for our families, and inspiring women to be active and healthy. I launched our first Women Sports Directory, providing information to women in Monash on the sports groups and clubs that have women teams, classes and activities. And mums attending maternal and child health visits in Monash now have information on how to prioritise their own health and wellbeing post-partum. Following the success of the Wellington Child and Family Hub in Mulgrave we have opened our second Child and Family Hub this year at Pinewood, with a third being constructed at Oakleigh. We have also continued to improve playspaces across Monash for families to enjoy. Other things I have focused on which will not make headlines or have a plaque attached but are some of the most important responsibilities of Council include improving safety and traffic management in local streets, a successful new graffiti removal program, and improving the amenity of our local roads, green spaces and reserves. In the past year we collected 67,757 tonnes of waste (garbage, recycling, and green waste), planted 1,617 street trees, hosted 2,645 events at our libraries with 57,272 attendees, received 1,124 planning applications, and responded to 8,945 interactions on our website via webchat (yes, they are real people responding!). This day-to-day work of Council is what makes living in Monash possible. Thank you to all the Monash staff who do this work and help make this a great city for us all to live in. Thank you also to those who have contacted me to let me know what matters to you. Lets keep working together so we can all enjoy living and working in Monash. Please contact me anytime if you have any queries or feedback via email at Tina.Samardzija@monash.vic.gov.au or call 0435 011 927. FOLLOW THE FESTIVE TRAIL Scattered around five of our vibrant activity centres - Mount Waverley, Pinewood, Syndal, Clayton and Huntingdale - are ‘selfie pods of Santa, two reindeer and two elves. To take part, all you need to do is: *Visit at least three of the five centres for a bite to eat or some Christmas shopping *Take photos of at least three of the pods and upload them to social media with the hashtag #MonashSanta *Go into the draw to win a one-year Active Monash complete membership (Blue membership plan, valued at $1,303) with access to all Active Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centres. Find each selfie pod location and more details about the prize at www.monash.vic.gov.au/monash-santa Page 4 HAVE YOUR SAY... visit https://shape.monash.vic.gov.au Affordable Housing Strategy adopted after community feedback Following feedback from our community and the housing industry, the Monash Affordable Housing Strategy was adopted at the September meeting of Council. Rising house prices and rents, living costs, and limited investment in social and affordable housing have contributed to sharply declining housing affordability. Key initiatives to address this in the strategy include: *Requiring an affordable housing contribution when land is being rezoned to facilitate residential development, or in residential developments of 20 or more dwellings *Consider requiring affordable housing when planning for activity centres including and Precincts around the Suburban Rail Loop Stations locations *Advocate for State and Federal Government investment in affordable housing in Monash. Thank you to everyone who provided feedback and input during community and stakeholder engagement. You can read the final strategy at visit shape.monash.vic.gov.au/affordable-housing Shape the future planning of Oakleigh Golf Course Monash Council is planning for the future of the Oakleigh Golf Course, and we are inviting residents and community members to help us do this. In considering our future open space and sporting infrastructure needs, to ensure we are making the most of the space we have available, we are seeking feedback from the community on two options for the land that makes up the Oakleigh Golf Course: 1 Retain the 9-hole golf course, or 2 Transform the site into a regional park. Importantly, Council is committed to the land remaining as open space and no other options are being considered. Have your say before Thursday 30 November visit shape.monash.vic.gov.au/oakleigh-gc Play on: concept designs for playspace upgrades Earlier this year we asked our communities to share their ideas for new and upgraded playspaces at Mulgrave Reserve (Wheelers Hill), Orchard Street Reserve (Glen Waverley), Argyle Reserve (Hughesdale) and a new pocket playspace planned for Westbrook Street (Chadstone). We incorporated many of these ideas into draft concept plans, which are now available on Shape Monash for residents to provide feedback on. Share your feedback for Mulgrave Reserve new district-level playspace by Friday 24 November and for Orchard, Argyle and Westbrook playspaces by Saturday 9 December. Visit shape.monash.vic.gov.au/playspace-2024-25 Page 5 MONASH awards honour tireless workers Monash has again honoured some of the outstanding contributions of members of the community with the presentation of the 2023 Sir John Monash Awards at the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh) in Wheelers Hill. We are blessed to have so many amazing contributors, who give selflessly to the Monash community. The Monash Awards, this year celebrating their 10th anniversary, provide us with an opportunity to give something back to them. Awards are made in nine categories, with an additional award for Outstanding Leadership also presented to one of the category winners. This year Active Monash award went to Hazel Hockley; the Inspirational Women Leadership award was won by Kamlavathi Reddy; the LGBTIQA+ Community Leadership award by Yoshi Nakajima; and the Multicultural Champion was Heath Williams. Maureen Miller was named the Outstanding Advocate of People with Disabilities; the Positive Ageing Leadership award went to Parminder Jabbal; the Sustainability Leadership award to Chinmayi Jonnalagadda; the Youth Leadership award to Annie Zhou; and the Volunteer of the Year was Sandra Fribence. The 2023 Sir John Monash Award for Outstanding Leadership was awarded to Chinmayi Jonnalagadda, the winner of the Sustainability Leadership category. Chinmayi, a Year 12 student at Brentwood Secondary College in Glen Waverley, has been an active member of the school award winning sustainability group - the Brentwood Green team - since Year 7, working on that team many waste and sustainability initiatives. She is also been involved in the design and construction of a solar-powered car and helped create an interactive model of a fashion app aimed at preventing clothes being discarded and sent to landfill. Visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/monash-awards Annual Report is out now Council 2022/23 Annual Report is now available to read on our website. The report provides a comprehensive account of our operations for the 2022/23 financial year including major projects, community advocacy, and what we hope to achieve in the year ahead. It also sets out how we met the objectives in our Council Plan 2021-2025, as well as important information on our finances, governance, and our organisation. Read the full report at www.monash.vic.gov.au/annual-report Page 6 BE SAFE in the sun Taking care of your health includes caring for your skin, especially in Australia, which has the world highest skin cancer rates. Melanoma is the most prevalent cancer among those aged 15-39, and 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Be aware of UV ratings, practice sun safety with sunscreen, wear protective clothing and seek shade. The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN) provides support and advocacy for those getting skin checks, diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. For more information https://mscan.org.au www.sunsmart.com.au/uvalert/widget.aspx Are your food waste liners compostable? Did you know food waste liners labelled eco, green, plant-based or biodegradable can still contain plastic and will contaminate the compost created from your food and garden waste? Only certified compostable liners are accepted in your Monash Council green bin. Help us keep plastic out of our soil by always checking your kitchen caddy liners have the compostable AS4736 (Australian Standard) logo on the label (see illustration below). Most major supermarkets and hardware stores stock the compostable AS4736 bags, and you can purchase them online. For a limited time, Monash residents can access rebates* to buy discounted certified compostable liners through Compost Community. Access the discount or read more details about using compostable liners here www.monash.vic.gov.au/lining-your-caddy *One rebate available per household, per annum. Get Active! Monash An exciting initiative of the award-winning Active Communities team is almost ready for use, with the installation of new fitness equipment in Monash reserves linked to how-to videos. Get Active! Monash brings the virtual and physical together in one platform, providing an opportunity for residents to keep active. From 5 December, each site will feature handy QR codes linked to videos demonstrating how to use 14 pieces of equipment such as Roman rings, parallel bars and aerobic cycle. Check ahead of visiting reserves and view videos on Council website. Also see maps detailing fitness equipment, walking trails, cycling trails and sports infrastructure located by suburb. Spring into action, participate your way and see what is available in your area. www.monash.vic.gov.au/get-active-monash Welcome to the Mavericks   We are delighted that Australia newest Super Netball team, the Melbourne Mavericks, will call Monash home. The team has announced that they will train at Council Waverley Netball Centre in Glen Waverley, where they will be joining the Waverley Night Netball Association and its 400 local netball teams. This is an outstanding result for sport in Monash and reflects the work of the Waverley Night Netball Association and Council to create a thriving netball hub at our Waverley Netball Centre. Get behind the Mavericks at melbournemavericks.com Page 7 COUNCILLOR NEWS Cr Paul Klisaris Over my 23 years as a councillor, I have had the privilege of witnessing our city transform in remarkable ways. I began this role with a vision to make our city a better place for all. Back then, the city faced crumbling infrastructure, economic instability, and social issues that demanded attention. It was clear that change was necessary, but it would not come easily. A key lesson I have learned during my time in office is the power of collaboration. Progress requires the cooperation of stakeholders, including councillors, city staff, community organisations, and citizens. Together, we tackled complex problems, revitalised neighbourhoods, and initiated ambitious projects that have left a lasting impact. Adaptability has been vital. Our world is constantly evolving, and embracing innovation while staying true to our city values was a delicate balance, but it allowed us to remain relevant and responsive to the needs of our citizens. Of course, there were difficult decisions along the way. Budget constraints, contentious debates, and controversial policies tested our resolve. Yet, it was through these challenges that I witnessed the resilience of our community. Looking back on 23 years, it is not just the milestones and accomplishments that stand out but our collective spirit. It is the countless individuals who contributed their time, energy, and passion to create a place we can all be proud to call home. As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the joyous holiday season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the blessings we share and the spirit that defines our city. Christmas is a time of unity, a time when we come together as a community, regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, to spread warmth and kindness. As your Councillor, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the generosity and compassion I have witnessed. Whether it is through volunteer work, acts of kindness, or simply being there for one another, you continue to be a shining example of what can be achieved. This Christmas, lets extend our hands to those in need and our hearts to those who may be feeling lonely. Lets remember that the true spirit of Christmas lies not in the gifts we exchange but in the love, understanding, and goodwill we share. From my family to yours, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season. Thank you for being the heart and soul of our extraordinary city. NEXT COUNCIL Meetings Tuesday 28 November, 7pm | Tuesday 19 December, 7pm Monash Civic Centre, 293 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley Access meeting agendas and watch in-person or online visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/meetings YOUR Councillors Glen Waverley Ward Cr Geoff Lake, call 0411 645 281, email Geoff.Lake@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Nicky Luo, call 0451 560 398, email Nicky.Luo@monash.vic.gov.au Mount Waverley Ward Cr Anjalee de Silva, call 0424 679 096, email Anjalee.deSilva@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Brian Little, Mayor, call 9518 3524 or 0407 878 033, email Brian.Little@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Rebecca Paterson, call 0437 959 163, email Rebecca.Paterson@monash.vic.gov.au Mulgrave Ward Cr Paul Klisaris, call 0412 516 026, email Paul.Klisaris@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Shane McCluskey, Deputy Mayor, call 0466 345 406, email Shane.McCluskey@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Tina Samardzija, call 0435 011 927, email Tina.Samardzija@monash.vic.gov.au Oakleigh Ward Cr Josh Fergeus, call 0466 465 421, email Josh.Fergeus@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Stuart James, call 0413 184 250, email Stuart.James@monash.vic.gov.au Cr Theo Zographos, call 0430 316 911, email Theo.Zographos@monash.vic.gov.au You can contact Councillors via phone or email. Letters can be mailed to PO Box 1, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150 visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/Councillors Page 8 What is on in Monash Monash Carols by Candlelight Saturday 2 December 5,30pm to 9.15pm www.monash.vic.gov.au/carols ORC Fun Day Sat 9 December, 11am-4pm Did you know there is a hidden aquatic and fitness gem located in Oakleigh? Join us for some fun in the sun at Oakleigh Recreation Centre Open Day. There will be family friendly aquatic activities, Health Club Activ8 games, face painting, Bike and Blend and a DJ playing poolside. Discover what is on offer and take advantage of our membership specials and tour of the centre. Oakleigh Recreation Centre, Park Road, Oakleigh www.activemonash.vic.gov.au/orc-fun-day BIG SUMMER READ Children of all ages, keep your reading up over the summer holidays and take part in the state-wide Big Summer Read. Register at your local Library branch, collect your reading log and activities, and record everything you read between 1 December and 31 January. There are some exciting prizes to be won. www.monlib.vic.gov.au/big-summer-read Contact us Monash Civic Centre, 293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley 8.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday Oakleigh Service Centre, 3 Atherton Road, Oakleigh 8.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday Call 9518 3555, email mail@monash.vic.gov.au, visit www.monash.vic.gov.au National Relay Service (for the hearing and speech impaired) phone 1800 555 660 We welcome your feedback at media@monash.vic.gov.au Copyright © 2023 Monash City Council. All Rights Reserved; reproduction in any form will require Council written approval. Monash Council acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land that makes up Monash, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. Information in the December Bulletin is current at the time of going to print on 2 November 2023. Snap Send Solve is a great app to report through to us what needs fixing visit www.monash.vic.gov.au/snap-send-solve