MORE than 2000 shrubs and grasses have been planted between Aspendale and Carrum. The planting program was run by Melbourne Water, which says it has “finished an environmental project to plant 2500 indigenous coastal shrubs and grasses at five key sites”. Planting took place at Mordialloc Creek, Patterson River, and Surf Lifesaving Clubs at Chelsea and Carrum. The workers who planted the shrubs and grasses were employed through the state government’s Working for Victoria initiative. Melbourne Water’s Adam Ryan said “the planting by our Work for Victoria crews will strengthen and protect the coastal dunes from erosion and also create…
Author: Bayside News
THE Victorian Ombudsman is investigating what all local councils are doing to help residents financially struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The investigation is expected to be completed in the first half of next year. The ombudsman will look into whether information about councils’ financial hardship assistance is accessible for ratepayers, and if it is fair and reasonable. Victorian Ombudsman Deborah Glass said “As we know too well, the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn will see a growing number of people experiencing financial hardship.” “Before the pandemic, my office regularly received complaints from ratepayers about the way councils responded when they…
KINGSTON residents are being asked to have their say about the ban on fire pits currently in place. Under current local law, residents are prohibited from lighting fires in backyards without a permit. Fires cannot be lit in a structure to create heat outdoors, outdoor fires must not affect neighbours through smoke and odour, and brick-built structures like barbecues must be put in a place where they will not impact on neighbours. Council is now considering changing these laws. Kingston mayor Steve Staikos said “we want to know your thoughts on the potential environmental and health impacts of fire pits,…
MORE than 5000 people have taken part in Kingston Tinsel Trail events this year. As part of the Tinsel Trail, activities have been set up across Kingston in the leadup to Christmas. The events will finish on 22 December. Christmas-themed activities will be on offer, and Santa will make an appearance, on 11 December in Mentone from 3pm – 6pm, on 12 December in Chelsea from 11am – 1pm, on 19 December in Dingley from 11am – 1pm, and on 22 December in Highett from 4pm – 7pm. More information at kingston.vic.gov.au/Places-and-Events/Council-Festivals-and-Events/Tinsel-Trail Picture: Supplied First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc…
A PARC group instructor has taken out a big award at the Aquatics Recreation Victoria Industry Awards. Louise Craig won the group exercise instructor of the year award. “I’m blown away. I love my job. I love seeing people enjoy their fitness journey,” she said after her win. “I love seeing people who have never exercised in their life develop a passion for fitness and become someone who is coming week in, week out.” Peninsula Leisure CEO Tim Gledhill said Ms Craig “doesn’t shy away from working hard herself within the class, motivating and inspiring her group to work hard…