Warby Mountain Bike Study!









WARBURTON MOUNTAIN BIKE STUDY - Council is keen to see what the community thinks. Please make a submission.
The draft report is available until 5pm Friday 10 July.
Send your submissions to Recreation Services at mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au or contact 1300 368 333 for more information.
...
The Warburton Mountian Bike Feasibility Study can viewed via this link:
http://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Public_Notices_Consultation/Warburton_Mountain_Bike_Feasibility_Study

Council Meeting 11th March - Tenement Controls & The Olinda Pool






Tuesday's meeting "11th" will see 2 issues within my ward of which are of public interest.
 
1: Application for a dwelling in Kalorama - Tenement Controls
2: The Olinda Pool
 
The first is an application for a dwelling and water tank in the hilly suburb of Kalorama. However this application has been recommended for refusal because the property itself has a "Tenement" control.
 
"What is a Tenement control"? you ask?, well let me tell you.

In the 1970’s improved transport networks on the urban fringe of Melbourne made the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley with an easy commuting  distance from the city centre, with that brought increased development. Between the years 1967 and 1973 the Shires of Pakenham and Sherbrooke building approvals almost quadrupled. This lead to a response from the state government to ensure protection of these areas with the formation of Statements of Planning Policy 3 (Dandenong Ranges) and 4 (Yarra River). These policies outlines specific requirements for recreation and conservation rather than new residential development. A new regional level group resulted in the formation of The Upper Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Authority which set out to create a regional strategy plan (RSP).
 
This lead to a number of actions being:
 
The acquisition of land by the State Government – but due to associated costs it was limited to lots adjoin state land or at extreme risk of bushfire
 
The restructure of “old and inappropriate” subdivisions, which involved the consolidation of lots.
 
Lastly and not very well known was the creation of tenement controls.

 
Tenement controls operate by restricting development within groups of lots known to have been in the same ownership (tenement holding) on a specific date, which was known as the “effective date”. By limiting the amount of dwellings that can be constructed to a specified number per holding (usually just one), as opposed to one per lot. In the past tenement controls had largely been applied to farming areas or the urban fringe, however the RSP was being applied over areas previously zoned residential, such as the northern half of mount Dandenong and weren't being used as a permit trigger but an outright prohibition on development as was its intent in previous planning schemes.  Concerns were raised as to the potential for the control to be eroded due to the fact that 60% of refusals for 2nd dwellings on tenement controls were overturned in the Melbourne and Metropolitan Planning Scheme by the then Administrative Appeal Tribunal. Despite this they were expanded in the Yarra Ranges & Dandenong Ranges.

Now, this application must meet ALL 9 of the Tenement "anomalies" Set out in Clause 53 of the Planning Scheme: They are:

Clause 53 (Upper Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges Regional Provisions)
  
Under Clause 53.01-2 (Use of Land- Tenement Controls), a planning permit can be sought for the use and development of additional dwellings within a tenement holding (ie development of individual vacant lots), provided that it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the responsible authority that: 
The development will not prejudice the primary purpose of the zone and local planning policies applying to the land.

The wider objectives of the tenement provisions are protected from incremental erosion and are maintained as a legitimate means of protecting the areas identified from inappropriate development. 

Services such as constructed roads, reticulated water supply and reticulated sewerage are available, without additional substantial costs to the Council and servicing authorities, and the provision of these and other utility installations will have minimal impact on the environment or landscape of the area.

 If reticulated sewerage is not available, the site is of sufficient size to enable proper onsite treatment of all wastes and retention of effluent. 

If the land is in an area identified as having a high risk of wildfire hazard, appropriate building design measures will be undertaken to provide an acceptable level of protection. 

The development will be consistent with the provision of any Environmental Significance Overlay, Heritage Overlay, Erosion Management Overlay or Land Subject to Inundation Overlay that applies to the land. 

 There will be no detriment to the ecology of any stream or watercourse on or near the site by virtue of the development. 

The development can be considered to be infill in an area which is substantially built up. 

Removal of native vegetation is minimised.


Council Officers are recommending refusal because 2 of the anomalies cant be met # 2 and # 8

 The wider objectives of the tenement provisions are protected from incremental erosion and are maintained as a legitimate means of protecting the areas identified from inappropriate development. 

There will be no detriment to the ecology of any stream or watercourse on or near the site by virtue of the development.

I will arguing the case that they do and that this application should be approved.

There will be some talk about "infill development" and "inappropriate development" both of which do not apply to this application. Unfortunately this "Tenement" provision ultimately "bans" any further development within the hills in certain areas. You will see that this application isn't a large development, it fits in with the local character of the hills, ALL risk aspects of the application have been met: Bushfire, Erosion, and Sewerage!

This provision is well hidden within the hills and does take some time and money to establish whether you have a tenement control or not and this concerns me. An antiquated planning control that has seen its day and was well used (in the 1970s). That amount of development and expansion does not exist now and into the future.


The second issue is the Olinda Pool, the report states:

"At the time of preparing this report, the final structural engineering assessment was yet to be received.  This report will be distributed separately to councillors. 

Considerable community interest has been experienced in relation to the structural issues identified with the Olinda pool.  Council’s Aquatic Facilities Strategy recommends closing the Olinda Pool and exploring alternatives once the Monbulk Aquatic Centre is redeveloped and opened. 

As a result of the recent identification of structural damage to the Olinda pool, it is recommended that Council undertake an extensive community engagement process that reviews short and long term options for the Olinda pool site, including options that would allow for continued enjoyment of the site well into the future.  It is further recommended that Council is provided with an update on the progress of community engagement to ensure that consideration can be given to options for the site well prior to the 2014/15 summer season."

 
RECOMMENDATION 
That: 
1. Consultation occur with the broader community on future options for the Olinda Pool as recommended in Council’s Aquatic Facilities Strategy.
2. Further report(s) be provided to Council on the progress of community engagement well prior to the 2014/15 summer season.

At this point I haven't seen the final engineers report so at this stage I will reserve my opinion on this. I will say this though:

"I support the Olinda and the wider Hills community to have a water recreational facility and if this means the "wider community" supports a pool, then I will support it."

We now need to understand what the community wants to see in this space. Ultimately the pool itself is damaged beyond repair, after serving its community for 50 years, it played an integral role in the social and wellbeing of all within the Hills community. I want to see something that will now continue this legacy into the next 50 years!

Lets make sure we get this one right! Lets make sure we develop something so ALL can enjoy!

Kalorama Reserve Playspace


Thank you to the 70+ residents that attended a community meeting on Friday, 28 February 2014 to discuss the Kalorama Reserve Playspace. It was great to get your feedback about upcoming playground works and in response to your comments the following actions are now being taken:

Council staff will now commence a 4 week consultation process to discuss the project and I encourage you to be involved.

How?

·         * Join us on one of two site walks with dates and times to be advised of shortly.

·         * View the reserve master plan displayed at the local Milk Bar, Primary School and Kindergarten.

·         * Complete a survey that will be available at the local Milk Bar and posted to local residents within close proximity to Kalorama Reserve

* Make a submission to mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

·         * A workshop with the local primary school is scheduled.

·         A community reference group has also been established by local residents which will help guide the project. A draft concept will be available for comment after the initial 4 week consultation period.

If you would like to discuss this project further, please contact either Ben Bainbridge, Executive Officer Recreation Services on 9294 6758 or Nathan Milesi, Acting Executive Officer Urban Design on 9294 6468

Planning Application Advice

 
 
PLANNING FACTS 

Hi all please read this great info about planning and what to do, my biggest advice to you is:

Have a Pre Application Meeting!!prior to submitting your planning permit, this will save so many problems and will also speed up the process too!

Yarra Ranges receives on average 2000 planning permit applications per year. Application types range from urban development, dwellings in rural areas, vegetation removal and tourism uses. More than 75% of planning permit applications require further information to be provided after they have been lodged.
 
Most applications are advertised by sending a notice to neighbouring properties and putting a sign on the site. If people object to the proposal often a consultation meeting is held to try and find ways to address their concerns. Many applications need to be sent to other external authorities (eg Yarra Valley Water, Country Fire Authority, Vic Roads) so they can review the proposal. The majority of applications are approved, although many include permit conditions requiring changes to be made. On average, a planning permit application will take around 2 months to process if we don’t need any more information but around 4 months if we need to ask for further information before we can fully assess your application. More complex applications can take between 6 - 12 months before a decision is made. Some applications need to be considered by the Council at a formal meeting, particularly major projects and applications that have received lots of objections or have a significant environmental impact.


STEPS IN THE PLANNING PROCESS
Step 1: Talk to the Planning Department. Take advantage of free planning advice. Find out if you need a planning permit. Ask for copies of the planning controls for your land or visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au to find a link to Planning Schemes Online. Get information about the planning process. Look at an example application under Planning Advice Notes on our website.  
Step 2: Talk to your neighbours and other authorities. By taking the time to have a chat to your neighbours about your proposal you can find out whether they have any concerns or ideas about how a compromise may be reached. It is also good idea to talk to other authorities such as Melbourne Water or South East Water, the Country Fire Authority or VicRoads (if the land is on a main road) to see if they have specific requirements which may require changes to your proposal. 
Step 3: Hire a professional to prepare and lodge your application. Employing a consultant to manage the application on your behalf could save time. Depending on what you are applying for you may need assistance from an architect, draftsperson, landscape designer, arborist (tree expert), heritage expert or geotechnical engineer (if you are in a landslip area). We can provide some guidance about what expertise you need but unfortunately we cannot recommend anyone to you.  
Step 4: Ask for a pre-application meeting with one of our Planners. Bring in sketch plans of your proposal, along with other relevant application documents (such as an arborist report or geotechnical report), so that we have as much information as possible about what you plan to do. The Planner can give advice about whether you have all the information you need to lodge your application. Please note that a Planner will undertake a more detailed assessment of the application when it is lodged and may ask for more information to be provided.  
Step 5: Lodge the Application with all the information we need. To help you understand what information and documentation you need to give us, we have an example application for you to look at. Either call us on 1300 368 333 for a copy or visit our website to access a copy.

Step 6: The Process After Lodgement. All applicants will be given a copy of our guide to the planning process once the application is lodged.  The process is as follows:

Preliminary Assessment - The Planner will undertake a preliminary assessment to identify general issues and if we need more information, which will then be requested in writing. A site inspection will also be undertaken to verify the information provided is accurate, to check if we need to advertise the application and to ensure the Planner is familiar with the site

Referrals & Advertising – we may need to send a copy of the application to other Council departments or to external authorities (eg Yarra Valley Water, Country Fire Authority, VicRoads) for comment.  If required, we will also notify people that have an interest in surrounding properties of the application as they may be affected by what is proposed and may wish to make a written submission.  If there are a number of objections, and there is a chance to find common ground, we may hold a consultation meeting.  For further information, please read our Planning Advice Note on ‘The Public Consultation Process for Permit Applications’.

Final Assessment & Decision – the Planner will consider all written submissions and then write a report assessing the application against the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme. They will then make a recommendation about whether or not a permit should be issued.  The report will be considered by Planning Services under delegation, or by Council at a full Council meeting.  The decision to grant a Planning Permit, issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit (if there are objections) or issue a Notice of Refusal will then be made either under delegation by a Senior Planner or by Council at a formal Council Meeting. This decision will then be put in writing and sent to the contact person on the Planning Permit Application Form. 

Olinda Pool Update #4


 
 
 
 
 
This week council officers provided councillors with an updated briefing about the current state of the Olinda Pool.
Since the pool was discussed at Council’s 28 January meeting, further engineering inspections, workshops and site visits with engineers, pool specialists and manufacturers have been conducted to fully explore the range of options available.

The following information was highlighted to councillors at the briefing:

The pool has significant cracks and is porous resulting in significant water leakage

Water leakage has resulted in a high ground water level which is putting pressure on the pool shell, and continues to create significant cracks in the pool floor and wall

Core testing and pipe testing has been undertaken and is currently being analyse.

The pool and buildings on the site do not comply with the current Building Code and other health, disability access and occupational health and safety legislation and regulations.
Council officers will continue their investigations around the possible range of options, both short term and long term, for the pool.

A report will be presented to Council in March, providing a further update on investigations.

Olinda Pool Update #3




Hi all,  I recently approached relevant council officers regarding some questions the community had and here are those answers to them. Some issues are ongoing and will be followed up soon. Hope this helps in some small way. John Faull of the Save the Olinda Pool Group has been informed of the council's progress and that information will be made public very soon.

1)    Has the pool actually been tested for leaking? I have explained to the group that normal drops in open pools over the winter period vary but average about 100mls - 300mls. When the Olinda pool was inspected for maintennance prior to the 2013/14 season there had been a significant drop of over 1 metre, this along with cracks noted around the pool highly suggested to staff that there was an external leak. If you have any other evidence that can quantify this that would be great. Claims the pictures on our website supplied are misleading by the Olinda Pool group, I dont know how to reassure the group of this, any suggestions?

An Interim Summary Report from the structural engineers has recently been provided identifying leaks in addition to photo evidence of the leaking available on the website.

We (the council staff) reject any allegations that photos on our website of cracks and leaks in the Olinda Pool are not legitimate. These photos were taken when the pool was being prepared for the summer season. This statement has been provided directly to the Save the Olinda Pool group.

2)    Core tests - What "exactly" will the test/report provide us?  When did they start onsite, what is the cost of this testing and what was their quoted timeframe for completion? I understand that this contractor was assigned prior to xmas and that has lead to some delays, but the Olinda community is seeing this as a "tactic" from council to delay the openeing of the pool. I would imagine that this testing doesnt include the inspection of the pool pipelines? Will there be a requirement of further tests after this one? Are any forecasted/invisaged? Were there any reports identifying any cracks prior to this season's ones? If so, were there any plans to fix/repair them?

A core testing company has been engaged and will be conducting testing and analysis over the next 3 weeks. The testing assesses the strength and durability of the concrete; the acidity levels and carbon dioxide  levels of the concrete; and chlorine contamination. Basically, if there are concerns regarding the structure, this will impact on what solutions are available and how much it will cost.

With regards to cracks and maintenance, Council has made repairs to cracks when found previously. This is evidenced by the expansion joint repairers made. The Interim Summary Report has also assessed the previous maintenance works undertaken.

3)    Contractors of the management of Olinda Pool ?Belgravia? Accusations of non-payment at the entrance, refusal of funds for memberships and intentional lack of maintennance leading to the general poor state the pool reserve is in. Has this been put to the contractors? Is there any truth to these claims? Has Belgravia expressed any notion that they would rather not manage the Olinda Pool? I have grave concerns if the pool was to be reopened in the ability of Belgravia to adequately manage this pool.

These issues need to be separated out.

Belgravia Leisure are contracted by Council to manage the Olinda Pool and are happy to manage the pool when operational. We have addressed the allegations made of them relating to “refusal of season pass” (Allegation 1); and “non payment of entry” (Allegation 2). Belgravia Leisure has investigated the allegations and provided the following response. They have not expressed any notion that they would rather not manage the Olinda Pool

From Frank Van Der Kraan – Victoria Regional Management, Belgravia Leisure:
·         Allegation 1 - “I have investigated the query regarding the season pass with the 2012/13 site manager who claims there was no query/incident raised on providing a season pass at Olinda over the last summer season. Belgravia have made season passes available at the outdoor pool sites to attract regular patronage, however, attendance figures from Olinda in the 2012/13 summer season indicate no season pass entries. Belgravia would not deny any patron a season pass if it was requested and was available.”
·         Allegation 2 – “With respect to item two Belgravia are responsible in recording attendance figures upon entry and do not allow free entry for children of families. Attendance figures are accurate. All entry is charged according to Council’s fees and charges as Belgravia reports and performs against a financial budget.”

The allegations regarding “intentional lack of maintenance” has only recently been made. Council is responsible for the maintenance costs for the Olinda Pool, whilst Belgravia Leisure is responsible for servicing the plant and equipment. We regularly inspected, maintained and repaired the pool when needed. The pool is more than 50 years old and is naturally wearing out.

I will be approaching the members who claimed they were refused season passes and also those who witnessed the "open gate" and no charge at the pool at the next Olinda Pool Community meeting. 

4)    The 2007-2017 Yarra Ranges Aquatic Strategy page 13 is quoted in saying - "The immediate works required to bring the pool to a "safe" standard would cost $80,000. Had this been done if so when? If not, how could the council allow the public to use the pool if it is said to be unsafe? 

These works were assessed and undertaken.

5)    There is still some conflict of opinion regarding the facility being a fire fighting tool. Suggestions of tanks being provided (at council's cost) is a inferior one and the local CFA captain believes that they would not be an appropriate supply if the need arises. Why does council have to foot the bill for resources that should be supplied by a state organisation such as the CFA? Yarra Ranges dont fight fires why should we be in the business of supplying tools for another organisation? Was or is the Olinda Pool the "only" option for water supply in Olinda? There has been talk around costs of the tanks being in the $6k range is this true? 

The CFA has advised us that they have interim measures in place for water supply including hydrants – one is located adjacent to the pool site – and a 100,000 litre water tank at the CFA station in Olinda.  Council offered to provide additional water supply in the area for this fire season. The CFA informed us this would not be required given existing supplies in place.

The Olinda CFA brigade has recently advised that they support the retention of the pool as a strategic static water source.

Council only offered tanks because we had them available. Costs of the purchase and installation cost of tanks has not been explored. Nor who would be responsible for footing the bill if this was a requirement of any future development.

6)    The contractor who was approached by the Olinda Group regarding repairing the cracks with a quote of approx $6k been looked into as a viable option for repair. Has or would there be an opportunity to meet with this contractor on site to validate this quote? 

We have been in contact with this contractor and are setting up a site visit with the structural engineer in the coming weeks. This action is in response to Council’s resolution last week.

7)    Is the suggestion from the Olinda Pool group regarding the formation of a "committee of management" that would then manage the pool a viable and realistic option? Im thinking of what we have in place with the Burrinja facility where a "partnership" has been created and funds are supplied to them for running the facility? This needs to be explored as this is something we (councillors) would be open to. 

Various management models will be explored by Council as part of an investigation into future options for the Olinda Pool.  Under the current management arrangements, Belgravia Leisure is responsible for servicing the pools plant and equipment, managing gate fees, providing supervision (lifesaver and first aid qualified) and routine cleaning of the pool and change facilities. This service is funded as part of the contract for managing the pool. Any possible arrangement where another group manages the pool would be subject to them demonstrating the ability to cover all aspects effectively.

I will be meeting with relevant council staff next week to engage in the real future of the Olinda Pool. This is a giant step guys! Your voice has been heard loud and clear and council have now taken notice. Continue the commitment you have shown and hopefully we will see people enjoying this area for years to come.

Olinda Pool Update #2










Hi all, progress on the status of the Olinda Pool is progressing. There has been an initial report finding from the engineers regarding the pool structure. I will preparing a report and initially advising the president of the "Save the Olinda Pool" it will then be made public shortly after that, it should be this week!

Council have also been progressing with the motion put up but Cr Cliff regarding the feasibility of a pool liner similar to the one used at the Croydon Pool with an onsite meeting planned with Council and the Pool liner company to further inspect this option, along with the contractor who advised that the sealing the pool could be an option. I will be hearing from council officers as soon as this takes place to see what feedback there is about these 2 options.

I want to make it clear to all that I do support the reopening of this pool, I'am encouraged by the official formation of the "save the Olinda pool" group, this is strong evidence that there is community commitment to see this pool continue.

I am being realistic about time frames and other aspects of the pool reserve which also need to be addressed. I don't want to see a quick fix just so we can open it for the last few weeks of the warmer season. I want a proper fix that would see this pool be enjoyed by all for at least another 10 years.

Please be patient and if you are keen to help, make yourself know to the "Save the Olinda Pool" group and become part of a group committed to keeping this great community asset alive.

Olinda Pool Update #1








Hi all, as we all know the Olinda pool is not in good shape. Council officers during their routine inspections found significant cracks throughout the pool shell. Cracks were so significant it was recommended that the pool couldn't be repaired in time for this summer. This has lead to much media and community debate about the future of this pool. A local group "save the Olinda pool" has been established and also created a Facebook site which I encourage people to visit. Especially locals even if you don't go to the pool and comment about your thoughts.

We must ensure there is open and respectful communication on this issue as I am aware that this pool has a lot of history, as do all other community pools that are this age. No defamatory or accusations of any "conspiracy" will be tolerated.

I want to ensure all community members are heard and given the right to speak so please feel free to use this blog for comments and ideas, it would be welcomed!  I have seen the benefits of both community pools that have survived extinction and those which have been revitalised into other types of water activities.

The fire resource issue is important to remember but rest assured that Olinda will still have access to water for fire fighting if the pool was to go, that is guaranteed!

Pools are costly to run as we all know, but the cost to good physical, mental, and social health is immeasurable, having lived in small communities in the past, I do see the attraction. On the flip side, I would ask questions about the cost of running such a pool where there are approx. 2000 visitors a year and a running cost of $60K/yr so on average costing rate payers $30 per visitor? (2010 comments on pool opening Leader press). Maybe we need to look alternatives or other ideas on how this pool or this site could be viable?  I'm all ears!

Cr Jason Callanan
crjasoncallanan@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Cr Callanan new committee representation







Hello all I wish to advise you that I have been successful in becoming the council delegate on 2 committees and have remained Chairman of the Health and Wellbeing Committee. I have elected to take myself off a number of committees as I felt there was enough representation on them already. Committees I have stood down from were; Community Safety Committee, Bushfire Management Committee, Municipal Emergency Management Committee, and Agribusiness. I have taken up the delegates role on the L2P Steering Committee as I have a strong commitment to road safety and education, also the Indigenous Advisory Committee, with my strong links to the Health and Wellbeing Committee, and many years of experience dealing with Indigenous Health Issues in the Northern Territory and Nth Qld I feel that I may have some value to this group. I look forward to seeing the committees soon!

Bridge Restorations Seville




As a result of my consultations with the Capital Works team, the foot bridge leading to the water play park in Seville will be restored! Finally I can say something that I have had personal input into is being done! This bridge was in a very poor state and in need of serious repair!

Monbulk Streetscapes



Well a number of incidents in the main st of Monbulk has spurred some discussion about the new streetscapes and the possibility they may have caused some incidents. I am speaking with the urban design team currently to see if we can do something about it. I will keep you posted.

CFA Controlled Burn Olinda

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
This morning the Olinda CFA attended a property in Upper Coonara Road in Olinda and assisted in a controlled burn that the residents have received a permit for.
This burn is very large and will burn for up to at least the end of this week.
Please be reminded that there is a Yarra Ranges Council permit for this burn and residents are reminded that normal burning off for fuel reduction purposes is only allowed on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8am to 6pm.
 
If you have a large amount of fuel to burn please contact the Yarra Ranges Council to arrange for a permit.
 
Thank you.

Regional Soccer "One step closer"



After approval by the Minister for Planning, the Victorian Parliament has ratified a planning scheme amendment to enable the development of a much-needed regional soccer facility in Monbulk.
The Legislative Assembly this week agreed to the Government’s motion, which rezones a site at Old Emerald Road, Monbulk, from Green Wedge Zone to Public Park and Recreation Zone.
Eastern Victoria Region MP Edward O’Donohue welcomed the amendment that was earlier in the month moved by the Minister for Planning, Hon Matthew Guy, and approved by the Legislative Council.
“This rezoning will allow Yarra Ranges Shire Council to proceed with an exciting and welcome regional soccer facility in Monbulk,” Mr O’Donohue said.
“Soccer participation has soared in the Yarra Ranges with existing facilities stretched to the limit.
“The Coalition is pleased to have facilitated this rezoning to help cater for the demand on existing infrastructure and the rapid growth in soccer participation that is expected to continue in the area.
“I pay tribute to the tireless work of the Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club, local community members as well as the funding contribution from Yarra Ranges Shire Council and the Federal Government.”
The development will include a pavilion, three full size synthetic pitches, one full size grass pitch, one training size pitch, lighting and car parking.
Mr Guy said the Victorian Coalition Government was pleased to approve the planning scheme amendment.
“The project has been prepared and adopted by the Yarra Ranges Shire Council, so I am pleased the Council can now proceed with this much-anticipated facility,” Mr Guy said.

Planning Advice?






PLANNING FACTS


Yarra Ranges receives on average 2000 planning permit applications per year.

Application types range from urban development, dwellings in rural areas, vegetation removal and
tourism uses.

More than 75% of planning permit applications require further information to be provided after they
have been lodged.

Most applications are advertised by sending a notice to neighbouring properties and putting a sign
on the site. If people object to the proposal often a consultation meeting is held to try and find ways
to address their concerns.

Many applications need to be sent to other external authorities (eg Yarra Valley Water, Country Fire
Authority, VicRoads) so they can review the proposal.

The majority of applications are approved, although many include permit conditions requiring
changes to be made.

On average, a planning permit application will take around 2 months to process if we don’t need any
more information but around 4 months if we need to ask for further information before we can fully
assess your application.

More complex applications can take between 6 - 12 months before a decision is made.

Some applications need to be considered by the Council at a formal meeting, particularly major
projects and applications that have received lots of objections or have a significant environmental
impact.

My advice is to make an appointment to come in and sit down with a planner to go through your proposal!

New playing Lights - Seville Recreation Reserve









I had the great pleasure of speaking at a low key presentation on the weekend about the new playing lights at the Seville Recreation reserve, here some of the highlights!

The State Government committed $100,000 to the installation of sports field lighting on this junior oval at the last election.

A major power upgrade was required to facilitate this installation which resulted in the total project cost coming in at $235,000 with the $135,000 shortfall being committed by Yarra Ranges Council for this important community upgrade.

The new lights are now at a night time competition standard – which opens up opportunities for some junior games being played at night.

In parallel with this project Council has undertaken a major redevelopment of the playing surface including drainage, irrigation and sand profiling before a new summer grass turf playing surface was laid. The investment in this project by Council was in excess of $300,000.

Council has also invested a further $125,000 in installing a new night competition standard sports field lighting system on the No.1 (Senior) Oval. The old lights had to be decommissioned after a safety audit in February 2013 prior to the current footy season.

All of the above projects mentioned were priority actions out of the Seville Reserve Master Plan approved by Council in mid 2011.

Yarra Valley Wines


Some interesting facts!


170 - years in the Yarra Valley,
120 - wine producers,
95 - Cellar Doors,
150 - Grape growers,
3000 hectares - under vine,

24000 tonnes - grapes produced,
16.8 Million - Litres produced,
22 Million - Bottles produced,

$154 Million in Sales,
$33 Million consumed in the region,
$45 Million in sales through restaurants,

950 Full time staff,
$66 Million is wages,
85% of employees live in the region!

Yarra Ranges’ Councillors Help Meet Disability Transport Need









Deputy Mayor, Cr Jason Callanan, and Cr Maria McCarthy visited the Mt Evelyn office of the local disability support provider, Melba Support Services, to personally present a cheque for $8,600 on behalf of all Yarra Ranges Councillors.

Mr Foard said “this very generous donation comes after Melba launched an appeal in our Autumn newsletter seeking community support to help increase and improve our transport services. Several of Melba’s buses have driven over 300,000 kilometres and have past their useful life and require replacing.”

“Ensuring that we have a safe, reliable and specially fitted-out fleet of vehicles to assist us in helping each person we support make meaningful connections within their community is essential”, Mr Foard said.

Melba works with people with complex support needs, assisting them to have valued roles within their communities. Vehicles are used to help people access their community for work, recreation, therapy or other health-related services, Mr Foard said.

“Being able to provide individuals with transport allows us to support each person’s emotional and physical health and well-being,” said Mr Foard.

“Our vehicles, which are fitted with hoists to assist people who use wheelchairs, allow people to be involved in activities that enhance their relationships and their quality of life – without the transport services we provide that would simply not be possible.”

“This donation will enable people to perform a range of activities, including community-based volunteering. Rob, Phil and Bec, who are supported by Melba, assist in the delivery of meals on wheels for people living in the Yarra Ranges. Others visit the Emerald SES and assist by washing their vehicles”, said Mr Foard.

Mr Foard also urged local businesses who may wish to advertise on Melba buses and, at the same time support Melba’s work, to contact Mrs Lisa Glassborow, Manager Community Relations, on 0402 302 477.

In January this year, Melba was declared the Yarra Ranges Council Community Group of the Year 2013, an achievement everyone at Melba is very proud of, Mr Foard said.

About Melba Support Services
Melba (named after Dame Nellie Melba) provides support services to some 140 people with physical and intellectual disabilities. It has been a leading community organisation in the Yarra Ranges for more than 40 years. Melba is also the first organisation in Australia to be accredited for person-centred excellence by the U.S.-based Council on Quality and Leadership.

Clean up your act!





I went on a tour with the ladies from TRAC the other day and this is what I came across when on Mt Dandenong Tourist Road in Montrose. Dumped rubbish and some even looked like industrial waste. I just cant understand why some one would do this, obviously they have a complete disregard and no respect for the all who live around this area and in fact the whole Yarra Valley! Although I imagine it would be quiet hard to track down the culprits, rest assured if we do find out be prepared to face the consequences!

Win for Yarra Valley Tourism


 
 
 
 
 
Very exciting news today!

Minister King ( Federal Minister for Regional Services) recently announced the success of our joint Regional Development Australia Fund application with Yarra Valley Railway for $3.56M for the $9M Yarra Valley Regional Tourist Precinct and Rail Link Reconstruction Project. Minister King made the announcement at 11:30am in Yarra Glen today.

The steam heritage railway will be a unique, historical and iconic drawcard for visitors to the already popular Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges tourist destination. We believe this project unlocks the full potential of arguably what will become the most beautiful tourist railways in Australia.

The railway is estimated to attract 200,000 visitors each year and generate $35 million with the flow on benefits to our community and local business significant. The importance of the project to the tourism product of the Yarra Valley was evident at the announcement with notable business leaders attending, including representatives from the Healesville Chamber of Commerce, Rochford Winery, RACV Club and Yarra Valley Chocolateria and Ice Creamery.

Council has committed $250,000 plus resources to the project and will enjoy a continued and positive working partnership with Yarra Valley Railway to see the railway become a reality.

Fair to say, the Yarra Valley Railway and broader Yarra Valley community is very excited by this announcement.

Immunisation Survey









The topic of immunisation has been circulating around in the media over the last few days, and some of it has been a bit misleading...

A recent Herald Sun article and piece on the Sunrise program implies that in the Yarra Ranges 236 children aged five years had not had any vaccinations at all. These statistics do not take into account the parents who chose to delay the vaccinations administered to four-year-old children until after they had turned six, or the children who had received part of the full vaccination program.

The figures quoted were obtained from the National Health Performance Authority and were calculated using information relating only to the 2011-2012 period.

The latest Department of Health quarterly statistics indicate that over the past 12 months our Immunisation team has achieved 90% coverage in the three age groups we are tested on. We’re hopeful that this is an indication that more residents are choosing to follow Victorian recommendations.

The recent media coverage highlights the continuing discussion around immunisation and we are keen to hear your thoughts on the issue.

We have re-opened a survey around immunisation services in the area – a survey we have used in the past to gather the public’s thoughts and experiences in a safe, unbiased and confidential way.

If you would like to contribute to this discussion, please fill in the online survey here
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