Greater Bendigo Magazine December 2014

Greater Bendigo 

December 2014 

magazine 

Your guide to summer 

page 6-12 

inside 

Loan scheme helping to 

restore heritage properties 

page 5 

Community Grants 

supporting great ideas 

page 18-19 

A compact city 

page 24-25

Contents 

4 A year of accomplishments 

New Mayor lists priorities for year ahead 

Are you fire ready 

Local Governments join forces 

5 Loan scheme helping to restore heritage 

properties 

6 Dive into summer 

7-9 Summer in the Parks - great family fun 

10 Great free things to do 

11 Be a lifesaver this summer and secure your 

pool and spa barriers 

12 A picture perfect setting to say I do 

13-15 Ward news 

Eppalock Ward - Rail Trail full steam ahead 

Lockwood Ward - Something for everyone 

Whipstick Ward - Commemorating the Anzac 

Centenary 

16 What’s in the works 

17 Mitchell Street revitalised 

18 Sustainability Guide online 

Community Grants supporting great ideas 

20 A meeting of great minds – City holds first 

Youth Summit 

Watch out for European Wasps 

21 Connect with Cooking 

Are you a Zoomer 

Get your Council news form the source 

22 Long Gully Splash Park coming soon 

Game Plan Series 

23 Game, set and match at Lockwood South 

Download the TeamUp app and get active 

24 A compact city with convenient public 

transport and more bike and walking paths 

25 Safe environment the key to active transport 

26 Anticipating the Ulumbarra Theatre opening 

27 New theatre to host Bendigo Bank 

Conference in 2015 

28 Looking for something uniquely Bendigo 

Grab the new 2015 Bendigo Dining & 

Shopping Guide 

29 New Food Fossicking tour for locals and 

visitors 

30 New sponsor and new look for Easter 

Festival 

Find it on Community Compass at 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au 

31 Arrangements over the Christmas period 

32 What’s on 

Your Councillors 

New Mayor Cr Peter Cox has identified his 

key priorities for the next 12 months as 

including lower rate rises, better drainage 

and more shared pathways for walkers 

and bicycle riders. 

Delivering his inaugural speech as Mayor, 

Cr Cox said implementing key strategies 

such as the Residential Development 

Strategy and the Integrated Transport and 

Land Use Strategy were also high on his 

agenda. 

“Above all I want to promote capacity 

building,” Cr Cox said. 

It has been a big year for the Greater 

Bendigo City Council. 

My time as Mayor of this great City has 

been extremely rewarding and I have 

enjoyed very much my interactions with 

community members. 

A highlight for me was the official 

opening in February of the redeveloped 

Bendigo Library. The project is a very real 

symbol of how the decisions we make as 

Councillors can improve the liveability of 

Greater Bendigo. 

Another highlight was of course the 

opening of the expanded Bendigo Art 

Gallery. The Art Gallery proves itself again 

and again to be the best of its kind in 

regional Australia. The two big exhibitions 

held there this year, Undressed: 350 years 

of Underwear in Fashion and The Body 

Beautiful, have attracted many visitors to 

our city. This is good news for our local 

economy. 

I believe the Budget we passed last 

“To quote my favourite saying: 

‘Communities are only as strong as the 

number of people who get involved. Use 

your energy, ideas and spirit to make a 

difference’. 

“Rather than ‘we will do it for you’ it is 

about Council facilitating projects, with 

local residents and staff driving them 

together and coming up with creative 

ways to pay for them.” 

Cr Cox said he felt deeply honoured and 

humbled to be elected Mayor and hoped 

he could live up to peoples’ expectations 

July was the right one for the time. I 

understand that people dislike rate rises, 

but without this important source of 

revenue the Council would achieve very 

little for our community. The Budget 

included $16.03M for local roads, kerb and 

channel, bike/walking paths and traffic 

control measures and $5.6M for drainage 

projects. These works are important and 

cannot happen without a funding source. 

I look forward to their completion over the 

coming months. 

My time as Mayor has also given me the 

chance to build strong links with Spring 

Street and Canberra and I was thrilled 

when the State Government announced 

$15M for the Greater Bendigo Indoor 

Aquatic, Leisure and Wellbeing Centre at 

Kangaroo Flat. I remain optimistic that the 

City will be able to secure Federal support 

for this project as well as for the Bendigo 

Airport redevelopment. These projects are 

important if we are to meet the demands 

of a growing city. 

in leading one of the great regional cities 

of the world. 

“I thank Councillors for putting their 

trust in me as their leader and chairman 

and I hope that we can all, including 

Council officers, have some inspiring and 

innovative meetings during the coming 

year. I hope that my experience as a 

facilitator will bring new dimensions to 

the Council table,” he said. 

“My ideal Mayoral year will see Council 

commit to lower rate rises and to 

implement a range of strategies that 

will not only make a difference for all of 

our citizens but plan for Bendigo and its 

region to be renowned as Australia’s most 

liveable regional city. 

“Prioritising expenditure for the use of 

open space for all, improved suburban 

drainage and walking and cycle shared 

pathways will be high on my agenda. 

In fact, I would like to see walking 

throughout Greater Bendigo with 

improved pathways as our number one 

goal for 2015 rather than large big spend 

projects.” 

Cr Cox said it was also important for 

him to differentiate between the role of 

the Greater Bendigo City Council and 

the role of the City of Greater Bendigo 

organisation. 

“Each identity has different 

responsibilities: the Council making 

decisions and the corporate arm 

implementing them,” he said. 

Cr Barry Lyons reflects on his time in top job 

With my term as Mayor now over, I 

would like to thank the Greater Bendigo 

community for their support over the 

past 12 months. It has been a genuine 

honour and privilege to serve you. I have 

also enjoyed working with Chief Executive 

Officer Craig Niemann and his team, who 

I have found to be incredibly professional 

and passionate about doing the best they 

can for our community. 

I congratulate Cr Peter Cox on his election 

as Mayor and look forward to 

working with him so we can 

continue to achieve great 

things for our city. 

Cr Barry Lyons 

Keep cool during hot weather 

Summer in Greater Bendigo can be 

relentlessly hot, so as the mercury 

climbs it is important to take care of 

yourselves, your neighbours and your 

pets. 

“People aged 65 years and over, 

pregnant women or breastfeeding 

mothers, young children and babies, 

people on certain medication and 

those who work outdoors are especially 

vulnerable during heatwave conditions,” 

Community Wellbeing Director Pauline 

Gordon said. 

“If a prolonged hot spell is forecast, 

make sure to turn on any fans or air 

conditioning units. Power outages are 

not uncommon during hot weather, so 

have a torch nearby with fresh batteries 

and a battery-operated radio so you can 

stay informed if any fires break out. Also, 

stock up on any food or medication you 

may need to avoid having to go outside. 

“If you do need to go out, do so early in 

the day before it becomes too hot and 

don’t forget to slip, slop, slap. The sun 

can pack a punch during a heatwave.” 

How to beat the heat: 

• Drink plenty of water, even if you do 

not feel thirsty (if your doctor normally 

limits your fluids, check how much to 

drink during hot weather) 

• Keep yourself cool by using wet 

towels on your arms or neck, putting 

your feet in cool water and taking cool 

(not cold) showers 

• Spend as much time as possible in 

cool or air-conditioned buildings (e.g. 

shopping centres, libraries, cinemas 

or community centres) 

• Plan to be out of high fire danger 

areas on bad days – plan for 

yourselves, vulnerable family and 

community members, and pets 

• Block out the sun during the day by 

closing curtains and blinds but keep 

an eye outside for signs of smoke or 

embers. Open windows when there is 

a cool breeze 

• Do not leave children, adults or 

animals in parked vehicles 

• Stay out of the sun during the hottest 

part of the day. If you must go out, 

stay in the shade and take plenty of 

water with you. Wear a hat and lightcoloured, 

loose fitting clothing 

• Eat smaller meals more often and eat 

cold meals such as salads. Make sure 

that food that needs refrigeration is 

properly stored 

• Avoid strenuous activity like sport, 

home improvements and gardening 

• Watch or listen for news reports that 

provide more information during a 

heatwave 

Greater Bendigo residents know too 

well the dangers of fire. In 2009 the 

Black Saturday bushfires devastated our 

community and each summer it is not 

uncommon on hot days for grass fires to 

flare up. 

There are many ways rural and suburban 

property owners or those who live on 

a property can take action to protect 

themselves and their neighbours against 

the risk of fire or ember attack. 

“Start by removing fallen branches and 

leaf litter, cut long grass and clean out 

any gutters. Remind your neighbours to 

do the same or lend a helping hand if 

they’re not able to do the preventative 

work themselves,” Fire Prevention Officer 

Eric Smith said. 

“If you’re using electrical equipment or 

slashers to make the clean-up easier, be 

mindful of it causing sparks. Always wear 

safety goggles and ensure you have at 

least water or, at best, a fire extinguisher 

nearby. 

“Any excess vegetation around your 

home can also make it vulnerable to 

ember attack. Fire embers can travel 

quickly, often many kilometres ahead of 

a fire front, and are the most common 

way houses burn down. 

“The City inspects properties to ensure 

that they are clear of any potential fire 

risks and are safe. Properties that are 

considered to pose 

a fire threat will be 

issued with a Fire 

Prevention Notice. 

Prevention works 

are the best method to 

lowering fire risk, but if this doesn’t occur 

the City will issue a penalty.” 

Residents are also encouraged to update 

their bushfire survival plan. “Make sure 

you tell family and neighbours of your 

plan and if a high fire day is forecast 

leave the night before or early in the 

morning,” Eric said. 

“If you have a Neighbourhood Safer 

Place in your area it should not be 

considered as part of your bushfire 

survival plan. A Neighbourhood Safer 

Place should be treated as a place of last 

resort that may provide some sanctuary 

from a life threatening bushfire. Should 

a fire front approach the Neighbourhood 

Safer Place is not the best option to 

ensure your survival.” 

Watch a video on how to prepare your 

property for the fire season at 

http://youtu.be/Tm7bpVYXcsc 

Further information is available online. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/fire 

2 Greater Bendigo magazine www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine Greater Bendigo magazine www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine 3

A year of accomplishments 

By Craig Niemann, CEO 

I recently had the pleasure of launching 

the City of Greater Bendigo’s Annual 

Report for 2013/2014. The Annual 

Report is one of the most important 

documents we produce as it gives us, 

as an organisation, the chance to reflect 

on our work and report back to the 

community on our achievements and 

the challenges we have faced. 

In 2013/2014, excellent progress 

was made on implementing 

the Independent Review’s 

recommendations with 37 of the 

69 recommendations completed 

and work progressing on nearly all 

others. Changes arising from these 

recommendations are making further 

improvements to the ways the City 

conducts its activities, including greater 

transparency, better decision making 

and improved processes. 

Here is a quick snapshot of some of the 

other work we did: 

• Constructing 17km of new roads and 

resealing 70km of existing roads in 

urban and rural areas; constructing 

26km of kerb and channel, 23km of 

footpaths and 28km of drainage 

• Issuing 1,163 planning permits for 

developments worth $221M 

• Progressing the Residential 

Development Strategy and Integrated 

Transport and Land Use Strategy 

that plan for the future growth of the 

whole municipality 

• Administering over 12,200 

vaccinations to children across 

Greater Bendigo 

• Continued planning and advocacy for 

the Bendigo Airport redevelopment 

and Greater Bendigo Indoor Aquatic, 

Leisure and Wellbeing Centre at 

Kangaroo Flat 

• Providing over 98,000 hours of HACC 

services and 38,000 meal deliveries 

through the Meals on Wheels service 

• Collecting over 28,000 tonnes of 

garbage from 45,836 urban and 

rural properties and over 10,400 

tonnes of recycling. These collection 

services operate across 3,000 square 

kilometres 

• Planting over 34,000 trees, shrubs 

and grasses across the municipality 

• Some 1,880 residents attending 

community consultation sessions, 

workshops and information sessions 

• Continuing to grow the City’s social 

media presence with 1,221 posts 

on Facebook and 1,659 tweets on 

Twitter. Visits to www.bendigo.vic. 

gov.au totalled 488,594 

Everything the City does relies on 

prudent financial management and I am 

pleased to report that the City continues 

to be in a strong financial position. The 

City’s total operating expenditure in 

2013/2014 was $153.4M. Revenue for 

the year was in excess of $173M with 

$86.4M in rate revenue representing 

around 49 per cent of that total. 

Capital works expenditure was $40.9M 

and included $15.4M for roads and 

bridges, $4.11M for drainage, $3.27M 

for land improvements and $11.11M for 

buildings. The City’s adopted Budget 

is projecting an operating surplus of 

$12.069M in 2014/2015, contributing to 

the continuation of its strong balance 

sheet position over the lifespan of the 

2013/2017 Council Plan. 

Looking forward, there are a number of 

challenges that must be addressed if we 

are to become Australia’s most liveable 

regional city. We need to improve our 

health and wellbeing and while council 

does have a responsibility here so do 

other levels of government as well 

as our community. Sections of our 

community remain disadvantaged and 

together we must ensure they have fair 

access to services and opportunities. 

We also have a collective responsibility 

to make sure that the high proportion of 

our population that lives alone or with 

one other have access to housing that 

meets their needs. 

Over the next 12 months, the City will 

continue to play its part in 

ensuring Greater 

Bendigo can 

be the most 

liveable regional 

city in Australia. 

Local Governments join forces 

The City of Greater Bendigo is leading a 

project that will see street lights across 16 

municipalities replaced with energy efficient 

technology. 

City Chief Executive Officer Craig Niemann 

said the Lighting the Regions project 

will result in the replacement of almost 

23,000 street lights to more energy 

efficient technology, which will reduce 

energy consumption and save regional 

communities more than $57M in energy 

costs over 20 years. 

“Installation of new lighting technology will 

result in energy savings of up to 77 

per cent and provide significant 

reductions in future operation 

and maintenance costs,” Mr 

Niemann said. 

“It is also a tremendous 

opportunity to engage regional 

people to think about how they 

can be more energy efficient at 

home and in the workplace.” 

Sixteen local governments across 

north, west and central Victoria 

have formed an important 

partnership to implement what 

will be the largest street lighting 

partnership project in Australia. 

The partners in the project are; City 

of Greater Bendigo, Central Goldfields, 

Hepburn, Pyrenees, Loddon, Swan Hill, 

Gannawarra, Mount Alexander, Buloke, 

Ararat, Northern Grampians, Hindmarsh, 

Horsham, Yarriambiack, West Wimmera and 

Mildura. 

This $11.6M project, which covers nearly 

half of regional Victoria, was made possible 

with the assistance of more than $5M of 

funding from the Australian Government 

as part of the Community Energy Efficiency 

Program and will run until June 2016. 

The project has significant support from the 

Wimmera Mallee Sustainability Alliance and 

the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance. 

Powercor is the Distribution Network 

Service Provider for the Lighting the Regions 

project and maintains and operates the 

street lighting infrastructure on behalf of the 

local government partners. 

“Lighting the Regions is the largest 

project of its type ever undertaken in 

Australia and represents a once in a 

generation opportunity to engage regional 

communities and individuals to make 

positive energy efficiency changes in the 

home and the workplace,” Mr Niemann 

said. 

www.lightingtheregions.com.au 

Loan scheme helping to restore heritage properties 

Before 

After 

Before 

The Athenaeum Hotel in View Street. 

Coath Cottage, Ironbark. 

After 

The City’s Heritage Restoration 

Loan Scheme is helping to 

restore some of our most 

historically significant properties. 

Since 2008, 15 property 

owners have applied for loans 

under the scheme, which was 

introduced to assist owners of 

historic buildings to undertake 

restoration and conservation 

projects. 

It offers a no-interest loan to 

the value of half the cost of the 

project and is available to assist 

restoration works on all historic 

buildings listed as having either 

State or local individual heritage 

significance, or contribute to 

the significance of a heritage 

precinct listed in the Greater 

Bendigo Planning Scheme. 

Gary Hill project managed the 

restoration of Coath Cottage in 

Happy Valley Road, Ironbark. 

The 1860s cottage – an 

important example of early 

permanent housing in Bendigo 

– was severely damaged in the 

February 2009 fires. A demolition 

order was initially issued, 

however current owner Andrew 

Ward offered to purchase the 

property so it could instead be 

restored. 

“The City’s Heritage Restoration 

Loan Scheme helped us to carry 

out works including restoring 

fire-damaged stonework, 

installing a concrete slab, 

re-establishing front and rear 

doors and constructing a 

wooden picket fence in such a 

How to apply 

Application forms for 

assistance from the Bendigo 

Heritage Restoration Loan 

Scheme are available 

from the City’s Planning 

Department and website. 

Information required 

includes: 

• A description of the 

site and why it is of 

architectural or historic 

importance 

• A description of the project 

including documentation 

of the proposed works 

• Two quotations or a firm 

estimate of costs 

• Name of site owner 

• Title details of the property 

way that protected the cottage’s 

significant heritage value,” Gary 

said. 

In another project (pictured), 

the street veranda and balcony 

was restored at the former 

Athenaeum Hotel in View 

Street. Other projects included 

stabilising a double-storey stable 

in Marong and reinstating the 

double-storey veranda at the 

former Bishops Court in Forest 

Street, Bendigo. 

Assistance is available for 

projects which restore, 

conserve, maintain or enhance 

the significant aspects of a 

building or place. Assistance 

is not available for extensions, 

private internal works, general 

maintenance, additions or 

new works, but can include 

interpretation plaques and 

Conservation Management 

Plans. 

In the past successful 

heritage loans have included 

reinstatement of verandas, 

original shopfront joinery 

and front fences based on 

historic photographs, as well 

as repainting, repairs to timber 

windows and chimneys. 

Further information about the 

scheme can be found online. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/planning 

• Photograph/historic 

photographs 

• Where required, a 

planning/building permit 

has been obtained 

Make an appointment to 

meet with the City’s Heritage 

Adviser or staff from the 

planning department by 

phoning (03) 5434 6355. 

Applications for assistance 

under the scheme should be 

addressed to: 

Chief Executive Officer 

City of Greater Bendigo 

PO Box 733 

Bendigo 3552 


Your guide to summer 

Dive into summer 

For some fun in the sun this summer head to one of the City’s 

swimming pools. 

Most sites have two or more pools to cater for all swimming 

abilities and barbeque facilities. 

Entry to all of Greater Bendigo’s outdoor swimming pools on 

Australia Day is free (excluding Peter Krenz Leisure Centre) but if 

you want to access them more regularly a season pass or family 

pass is the best and most cost-effective option. 

These passes provide access to all outdoor pools (excluding Peter 

Krenz Leisure Centre) and Golden Square Pool has reciprocal 

rights passes for sale, as well as Golden Square only pool passes. 

There is also a new option to purchase a rural pool pass for use 

at either the Marong, Elmore, Goornong, Raywood or Heathcote 

pools. 

“Residents in our rural communities usually only use their local 

pool, rather than travel across the municipality to use a pool 

in another town, so this pass is designed to be a cost effective 

way for these people to purchase a season pass that meets their 

needs,” City Manager Active and Healthy Communities Patrick 

Jess said. 

“Most local swimming pools will offer learn-to-swim classes over 

the summer,” Patrick said. 

“The 30 minute lessons will focus on survival skills as well as 

stroke technique. The instructors teach skills that are useful 

in both swimming pools and moving water such as rivers and 

lakes. Swimming lessons such as this are the best way to ensure 

your child will be able to safely enjoy the water this summer. 

“There are also school holiday programs that include swimming 

skills followed by water games and time on the water slide, all of 

which is designed to help children feel more confident around 

water.” 

The price for a regular season pass is $95 per adult, $70.50 per 

child and $181 per family. Rural pool passes cost $75 per adult, 

$50 per child and $120 per family. For more information on 

swimming lessons and school holiday programs contact your 

local pool. 

More information on opening hours and facilities on 

offer at all pools can be found online. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/pools 

Bendigo Aquatic Centre 

Barnard St, Bendigo 

Ph: 5443 6151 

Bendigo East Swimming 

Pool 

Lansell St, Bendigo East 

Ph: 5443 7078 

Brennan Park Swimming 

Pool 

Houlahan St, Flora Hill 

Ph: 5443 9407 

Elmore Swimming Pool 

Hunter Rd, Elmore 

Ph: 5432 6381 

Golden Square Swimming 

Pool 

Maple Street, Golden Square 

Ph: 5443 7774 

Goornong Swimming Pool 

Bagshot St, Goornong 

Ph: 5432 2368 

Heathcote Swimming Pool 

Barrack St, Heathcote 

Ph: 5433 2223 

Kangaroo Flat Swimming 

Pool 

Station St, Kangaroo Flat 

Ph: 5447 7964 

Marong Swimming Pool 

Calder Alternative Hwy, 

Marong 

Ph: 5435 2207 

Peter Krenz Leisure Centre 

Napier St, Eaglehawk 

Ph: 5446 9222 

Raywood Swimming Pool 

MacAuley St, Raywood 

Ph: 5436 1360 

White Hills Swimming Pool 

Hamelin St, White Hills 

Ph: 5448 4295 

The City of Greater Bendigo’s annual 

Summer in the Parks Program is one 

of the most looked forward to annual 

community events and the 2014/15 

program is the biggest yet with over 

40 free or low cost community events 

taking place over December, January 

and February. 

Parks and reserves across Greater 

Bendigo will come alive with outdoor 

cinema nights, walking, garden and 

nature tours, live music, Christmas 

celebrations, arts events and much 

more. 

The City is proud to present Summer 

in the Parks and this year we are 

excited to welcome Bendigo Telstra 

Business Centre as a major sponsor. 

This corporate sponsorship has 

allowed us to improve the program 

of events and the City is thankful 

to Telstra Business Centre Bendigo 

for supporting such an important 

community event. 

Nick Papaz, director Telstra Stores 

Bendigo and Telstra Business Centre 

Bendigo said the Bendigo Telstra 

Business Centre and Telstra Store 

teams are part of the local community 

and are thrilled to support the 

Summer in the Parks program. 

The program kicks off in December 

with a range of Christmas celebrations 

including the Lighting of the 

Christmas Tree in Rosalind Park and a 

range of Community Christmas Carols 

events. 

January features the popular live 

music in the parks on Friday evenings 

and a range of other activities 

including historical walking tours of 

Bendigo, Australia Day celebrations, 

evening tours spotting native animals, 

singing in the park and play in the 

park events. 

In February, outdoor cinema events 

can be enjoyed by the whole family 

each Friday evening, including two 

new locations - the Queen Elizabeth 

Oval and Strathdale Park. 

For further information pick up a full 

program from the Bendigo Visitor 

Centre in Pall Mall or visit the website. 

www.bendigosummerintheparks.com 


PROUDLY PRESENTED BY 

Family fun all summer – don’t miss it! 

DECEMBER 2014 

12 Friday 

Strathdale Community Christmas 

Carols 

7pm – 9.30pm 

Strathdale Park, Crook St, Bendigo 

13 Saturday 

Heathcote Community Christmas 

Carols 

7pm – 9.30pm 

Barrack Reserve, High St, Heathcote 

What to bring for a great 

summer in the parks: 

• Food and drink – a picnic is 

always fun 

• Water for those hot days 

• Sports shoes for active events 

• Hat and sunscreen 

• Chair/rug/umbrella 

14 Sunday 

Eaglehawk UFS Dispensary 

Canterbury Carols 

6pm – 9.30pm 

Canterbury Park, Soundshell, 

Eaglehawk 

21 Sunday 

Bendigo Community Christmas 

Carols 

6.30pm – 9.30pm 

Rosalind Park, Pall Mall, Bendigo 

31 Wednesday 

New Years Eve Midnight Fireworks 

Midnight 




JANUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 

4 Sunday 

Historical Walking Tour of 

Bendigo 

9am – 10am 

Meet at the Bendigo Visitor Centre, 

Pall Mall, Bendigo 

7 Wednesday 

Outdoor Active with It’s Her Gym 

6.30pm – 7pm 


8 Thursday 

Twilight Book Theatre 

6pm – 7pm 

Library Gardens, Hargreaves St, 


9 Friday 

Music in the Park 

ALL DAY FRITZ 6pm – 7pm 

Pearly Shells 7pm – 8pm 

Bendigo Botanic Gardens, 

White Hills 

11 Sunday 



9am – 10am 



12 Monday 

Play in your Park with Kelly Sports 

5pm – 7pm 

Long Gully Recreation Reserve, 

Cunneen St, Long Gully 

13 Tuesday 

Evening Walk Spotting Native 

Animals 

8.30pm – 10.30pm 

Location advised upon booking 

13 Tuesday 


5pm – 7pm 


14 Wednesday 


6.30pm – 7pm 


14 Wednesday 


Animals 

8.30pm – 10.30pm 


14 Wednesday 


5pm – 7pm 

Cooinda Park, Mackenzie St West, 

Golden Square 

15 Thursday 


5pm – 7pm 

Viewpoint Huntly Park, Waratah Rd, 

Huntly 

16 Friday 


Cass 6pm – 7pm 

JoJo Smith 7pm – 8pm 

Strathdale Park, Crook St, Strathdale 

17 Saturday 

Singing in the Park 

7pm – 9pm 

Rosalind Park Rotunda, Pall Mall, 


18 Sunday 



9am – 10am 



19 Monday 


5pm – 7pm 

Long Gully Recreation Reserve, 

Cunneen St, Long Gully 

21 Wednesday 


5pm – 7pm 

Cooinda Park, Mackenzie St West, 

Golden Square 

21 Wednesday 


Animals 

8.30pm – 10.30pm 


25 Sunday 



9am – 10am 



26 Monday 

Australia Day Celebrations 

Visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au for full 

details on events being held around 

the municipality. 

6 Friday 

Outdoor Cinema 

8.30pm – 10.30pm 

Elmore Events Centre, Midland Hwy, 

enter via Rosaia Rd 

8 Sunday 

Botanic Gardens Walking Tour 

7pm – 8pm 

Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White 

Hills 

11 Wednesday 


6.30pm – 7pm 


13 Friday 


8.30pm – 10.30pm 

Maiden Gully Recreation Reserve, 

Beckhams Rd, Maiden Gully 

14 Saturday 

Scots Day Out 

10.30am – 5pm 


20 Friday 


8.30pm – 10.30pm 

Queen Elizabeth Oval, 

View St, Bendigo 

21 Saturday 

Chinese New Year 

7pm 

Dai Gum San Chinese Precinct, 

Bridge St, Bendigo 

21-22 Saturday & Sunday 

Heathcote Community Games 

8am – 6pm Various locations, 

Heathcote 

25 Wednesday 


6.30pm – 7pm 


27 Friday 

100 year anniversary of the 

opening of the Bendigo Chinese 

Association 

10am – 11am 

Golden Dragon Museum, Bridge St, 


27 Friday 


8.30pm – 10.30pm 


20 Tuesday 


5pm – 7pm 


20 Tuesday 


Animals 

8.30pm – 10.30pm 


21 Wednesday 


6.30pm – 7pm 


22 Thursday 


5pm – 7pm 

Viewpoint Huntly Park, Waratah Rd, 

Huntly 

23 Friday 


Grim Fawkner 6pm – 7pm 

Jack & The Kids 7pm – 8pm 

Canterbury Park, Eaglehawk 

28 Wednesday 


6.30pm – 7pm 


29 Thursday 

Twilight Book Theatre 

6pm – 7pm 

Canterbury Gardens, Eaglehawk 

30 Friday 


anchor and the butterfly 6pm – 7pm 

Keshie 7pm – 8pm 


= gold coin donation 


Great free things to do 

Greater Bendigo has an enormous variety 

of free and enjoyable activities for you 

to experience especially in the warmer 

weather. Here are just a few suggestions for 

you, your friends and family to consider. 

Bendigo Visitor Centre 

Discover Bendigo Visitor Centre located in 

the historic Post Office building in Pall Mall 

and check out the exhibitions in the Living 

Arts Space and the Post Office Gallery. 

Rosalind Park 

Visit gorgeous Rosalind Park, see the 

Cascades, climb the lookout tower and 

stroll through the Fernery and Conservatory 

Gardens. 

Crusoe and No 7 Park 

Visit Crusoe and No 7 Park to go fishing, 

swimming or just have a paddle in Crusoe 

Reservoir and enjoy the serenity of this 

amazing natural reserve. 

Playgrounds 

Visit one of Greater Bendigo’s 120 

playgrounds. 

Canterbury Gardens and Lake Neangar 

Discover the beautiful Canterbury Gardens 

and Lake Neangar in Eaglehawk. 

Lake Weeroona 

Take a trip to Lake Weeroona and enjoy a 

barbeque or a picnic while the kids play on 

the adventure playground. 

Bendigo Art Gallery 

Take your time to stroll around Bendigo Art 

Gallery and the View Street Arts Precinct. 

Bendigo Botanic Gardens 

Enjoy the delights of the Bendigo Botanic 

Gardens at White Hills. Take a picnic and 

spend time exploring all the treasures to 

be found in this beautiful part of Greater 

Bendigo. 

Bendigo Creek Linear Park 

Walk or cycle your way along the Bendigo 

Creek Linear Park from Bendigo to 

Kangaroo Flat or from Bendigo to Epsom. 

Kennington Reservoir 

Try a spot of fishing at the Kennington 

Reservoir or meander along the bird and 

wildlife walk around the reservoir. 

Skating and BMX 

Practice your skills at the Skate Park in 

Eaglehawk or McIvor Road or at the BMX 

tracks at Spring Gully Road, Spring Gully, 

Victoria Street, Eaglehawk and Club Court, 

Strathfieldsaye. 

For location details use our new Community 

Compass service. 


Be a lifesaver 

this summer and 

secure your pool 

and spa barriers 

With summer upon us, the City is reminding all 

swimming pool and spa owners to ensure their safety 

barriers are secure. 

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for 

Australian children under five and evidence suggests 

a large number of drowning deaths are the result of 

safety barriers that are faulty or do not comply with 

Australian standards, which means children may 

wriggle through the gaps or climb over the top. 

Any pool or spa that holds more than 300mm of water, 

including do-it-yourself above ground pools, must be 

enclosed by a childproof safety barrier with a height of 

1.2m or greater and be regularly maintained. 

Inflatable pools in particular are of a great concern, as 

these pools often hold more than 300mm of water but 

are not usually enclosed by a physical barrier. 

City staff are often alerted by concerned neighbours to 

backyard pools that are unfenced and can then confirm 

any details through an aerial photo database. Fines of 

up to $6,000 can be issued to property owners who do 

not have a lawful barrier around their swimming pool 

or spa. 

Common issues that affect swimming pool and spa 

safety barriers include: 

• Gates and doors that are not self-closing 

If a safety barrier’s gate is no longer self-closing, it is 

not compliant with Australian Standards. This may 

also be the case with doors that lead from a house 

into a pool area that are used as part of a safety 

barrier and were installed prior to 2010 

• Gates and doors that are no longer self-latching 

Wear and tear of a locking mechanism can affect a 

door or gate’s ability to self-latch when closed 

• Gates propped open 

Gates can be propped open if people are going 

in and out of the pool or spa area, so can allow 

unsupervised children access to the water 

• Ground movement 

Ground movement can cause a safety barrier or gate 

to shift or separate and no longer work properly, 

making way for gaps under or in the barrier for 

children to slip through 

• Objects to climb on 

Make sure there are no climbable objects, such as 

barbeques or planter boxes, bordering your pool 

fence or that of neighbouring properties that would 

enable children to climb the fence and gain access to 

a pool or spa or a backyard with a pool or spa 

Any residents considering installing a swimming pool 

or spa this summer, either in-ground, above-ground or 

using an inflatable design, can ensure safety barriers 

meet the appropriate requirements by phoning 

5434 6000 and asking to speak to one of the City’s 

building inspectors. 


Ward News 

Rail Trail full steam ahead 

Eppalock Ward 

Work is advancing on the O’Keefe Rail Trail 

extension from Axedale to Heathcote. 

The Rail Trail is a fantastic walking and 

cycling path that follows the old Bendigo to 

Heathcote railway line and I am confident 

the extension will prove hugely popular with 

locals and visitors alike. 

Works on upgrading and extending the 

rail trail commenced in late 2010 and 

major project milestones have included 

the construction of six new bridges over 

waterways between Bendigo and Axedale, 

replacement of the Axe Creek Swing Bridge, 

construction of an underpass of the McIvor 

Highway at Axedale and a new bridge over 

the Campaspe River. 

The trail has been extended through Axedale 

and paths constructed at Heathcote. Recent 

works have included a crossing at the Mt Ida 

Creek and Lake Eppalock. 

One of the challenges Council has faced 

is how to extend the trail through One Eye 

Forest, with some people wanting to retain 

motor vehicle access to a local track that will 

form part of the trail and others wanting it 

restricted to emergency vehicles only. 

Meanwhile, following lengthy discussions 

with both sides, Council recently determined 

to opt for a compromise between access, 

safety and cost. The compromise, known 

as ‘Option 6’, will result in a separated path 

between Speed Street and Burnt Track and 

a shared track between Burnt Track and Mia 

Mia - Derrinal Road. 

Council hopes this outcome will benefit all 

and it will continue to monitor the situation 

once the extension of the rail trail is opened. 

Following extensive community consultation 

the design of the Heathcote play space 

at Barrack Reserve has been modified to 

incorporate the feedback received. 

Items such as an extra swing seat, a large 

wavy slide, an in-ground trampoline, herb 

planting and extra seating have been 

included in the design while the large tree in 

the centre of the barrel has been replaced by 

a central mast with a sculptural weathervane 

and grape vine trellis to strengthen the wellknown 

viticultural influence of the Heathcote 

region. 

While we had planned to undertake the 

upgrade prior to Christmas, this is no 

longer the case. Due to an unprecedented 

demand for custom play spaces, the City’s 

chosen fabricator could no longer guarantee 

installation of the equipment by Christmas. 

This delay would have seen the site closed 

for most of the Christmas holiday period. 

However, to ensure this did not happen, the 

installation upgrade works have now been 

scheduled for February/March 2015 so as not 

to inhibit use of the play space over the busy 

school holiday period. 

The play space will be closed during the 

construction period but will completed and 

open for use in March 2015. 

Cr Mark Weragoda 

T: 5434 6192 

M: 0400 363 586 

E: m.weragoda@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/crweragoda 

Cr Mark Weragoda crosses the 

new bridge over Mt Ida Creek, 

O’Keefe Rail Trail. 

A picture perfect setting to say I do 

Everybody wants their wedding day to be 

special, a blushing bride in a beautiful dress, 

a handsome groom, family and friends to 

celebrate and the picture perfect setting to 

say ‘I do’. 

Photographer Richard Gibbs said the City’s 

parks, gardens and passive reserves also 

provide an ideal setting for capturing a 

wedding. 

“They are generally quite shady, which 

means you can get out of the sun and heat. 

They are green because they are always 

watered, so the pictures appear vibrant,” 

Richard said. 

“Rosalind Park is my personal favourite 

because it is in the centre of Bendigo and 

is close to our historical buildings, which 

means you don’t have to walk far between 

photos to get a variety of shots.” 

Greater Bendigo’s parks and gardens can 

provide a beautiful backdrop to your big day 

but it is important to ensure the appropriate 

Local Law permits are in place. 

“Weddings are always lovely occasions and 

everyone wants their big day to run without 

a hitch. So, if you do want to make the most 

of Bendigo’s beautiful natural assets and 

get married under the cool tree canopy at 

Rosalind Park or by the billabong at the 

Botanic Gardens, make sure you inform 

the City of your plans,” Customer Support 

Manager Debbie Thewlis said. 

To book a park or passive reserve call the 

City’s Customer Service Unit. The cost will 

vary between sites and depending on the 

location and planned celebrations, the 

wedding party may also need a permit to 

consume alcohol. 

For a wedding, children’s birthday party, 

social gathering, memorial or school event 

no bond is required. Concerts or fundraising, 

public or commercial events will require 

a bond, however there may be some 

exceptions if it is also a community event run 

by a not-for-profit organisation. 

Further information contact Customer 

Service on 5434 6000. 


Commemorating 

the Anzac Centenary 

Whipstick Ward 

One of the many benefits to being a Councillor is the opportunity 

to support important projects or initiatives. 

Close to my heart is next year’s commemoration of the Anzac 

Centenary, as my grandfather bravely fought in World War I and 

II. April 25, 2015 marks 100 years since young men across the 

country, from cities to rural communities, signed up to represent 

Australia on the battle fields of Gallipoli and the Western Front. 

As this significant anniversary approaches, Australians are 

being asked to connect the past with the present and not let the 

experiences of war be forgotten. 

A generation of men signed up for the toughest challenge a 

young Australia had ever faced, as it was called on to support 

mother country Britain. Bendigo and surrounding communities 

first supplied 93 men, before more later joined. Thirty-nine of 

the original 93 survived Gallipoli. 

But it was not just the men who went to war; families also felt 

the strain of coping with their heavy absence on the home front. 

These experiences are as equally compelling as those who 

fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. Women rallied to the 

cause and formed branches of the British Red Cross Society. 

They also raised money and put medical supplies, clothing and 

care parcels of tobacco, soap and fruit cakes together. 

It is important to get the conversation started. 

My father served in Papua New Guinea and Tarakan, Borneo 

during World War II. He told the story that the Australian Army 

threw hand grenades into the lagoons to stun the fish, causing 

them to float. Dad and his friends then caught the fish and sold 

them to the Americans in exchange for cigarettes, tobacco or 

silk stockings to send home. This light-hearted story was passed 

onto my three brothers and I, and in turn I have passed it onto 

my three children. 

The serious nature of war and the larrikinism of our soldiers on 

the front line are both equally important in painting a picture of 

Australia’s war legacy. 

I particularly encourage our younger generations to take an 

active interest in our war history - ask relatives, trace your family 

tree, read any number of credible biographies or go online. 

Visit www.anzaccentenarybendigo.com.au to read or contribute 

stories from the Bendigo region detailing the role of our local 

soldiers during World War I and other conflicts since. The State 

Government website www.anzaccentenary.vic.gov.au also aims 

to connect Victoria’s war stories together. 

The City will hold a free public forum at the Bendigo Town Hall 

in February 2015 that will be open to all residents. It will feature 

Chair of the Victorian Anzac Centenary Committee the Hon. Ted 

Baillieu and rare footage of King George knighting Australian 

officer, John Monash. 

In France his unit played a significant role in breaking through 

enemy lines in 1918 at Amiens, and was decisive in the victories 

at the battles of Villiers-Bretonneux and Hamel which involved 

infantry, artillery, tanks and aircraft. Monash was credited with 

the success of the August 8 offensive on the western front, 

regarded as the crucial battle of World War 1. In a rare gesture by 

King George V he was knighted in the field in 1918. 

Cr Lisa Ruffell 

T: 5434 6206 

M: 0429 946 171 

E: l.ruffell@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Barry Lyons (centre) with Friends of the Crusoe Reservoir and No 7 Park on the new pontoon. 

Something for everyone 

Lockwood Ward 

There is plenty of action happening in 

Lockwood Ward. Works taking place 

include construction of a new $190,000 

bike underpass under High Street near the 

Golden Square Fire Station, a $103,000 

drainage project in Lockwood Road, 

Kangaroo Flat to address previous flooding 

problems and installation of a new $10,000 

school crossing to serve both primary and 

secondary students in Olympic Parade/ 

McKenzie Street West. 

Other works include a $162,000 

reconstruction of the footpath in High Street, 

Golden Square near the post office and the 

installation of a new $100,000 automated 

irrigation system at Wade Street to replace 

the old inefficient system. 

The City is also undertaking drainage 

works in Pallett Street, Golden Square, kerb 

and shoulder works in Furness Street and 

drainage works in Olympic Parade/Austin 

Court, Kangaroo Flat. 

The City recently prepared a draft 

masterplan for the Dower Park Recreation 

Reserve in Kangaroo Flat. Council funded 

the development of the draft master plan 

to guide improvements and set priorities 

for the reserve, including management 

responsibilities for the future. 

Dower Park is used for a variety of sport 

and recreation activities and is home to 

more than eight sports clubs and groups, 

including the Kangaroo Flat Bowls Club, 

Bendigo Women’s Football Club, Kangaroo 

My favourite place in Greater Bendigo 

Cr Barry Lyons reckons his favourite 

public place to visit is without doubt 

Crusoe Reservoir and No 7 Park in 

Kangaroo Flat. 

“This is Greater Bendigo’s hidden 

secret. It’s an amazing place to visit for 

bushwalking, nature spotting, jogging, 

cycling, swimming or fishing and it’s 

literally only minutes from the centre of 

Bendigo,” Barry said. 

“This unique part of Greater Bendigo is 

Flat Football & Netball Club, Kangaroo Flat 

Sports Club and Kangaroo Flat Cricket Club. 

Residents had an opportunity to comment 

on the draft master plan which will help 

shape the final plan. 

The Council has also formally received a 

master plan for the Bendigo Stadium. 

Between 4,500 and 5,000 participants use 

the stadium each week and the Master Plan 

features a three court/show court expansion 

as a staged project. 

Stage 1 includes development of the three 

courts and supporting amenities and an 

upgrade of the existing 12 outdoor netball 

courts while Stage 2 includes construction of 

spectator seating for 3,000 people to watch 

also home to range of amazing native 

animals, birds and plants. It’s nature on 

our doorstep. 

“If you haven’t been to Crusoe Reservoir 

yet I suggest you take some time over 

the summer months to cool off at this 

fantastic natural reserve which we are just 

so lucky to have access to. 

“You never know it just may become your 

favourite place to visit too.” 

concerts or sporting events. 

The Stadium is one of the largest sporting 

and event facilities in Greater Bendigo but 

it does need to be redeveloped to meet 

ongoing demand. 

I am always happy to chat to residents about 

their concerns. 


T: 5434 6215 

M: 0429 292 084 

E: b.lyons@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/crlyons 

Cr Lisa Ruffell and President Bendigo District RSL, Cliff Richards. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/crruffell 


What’s in the works 

As part of Council’s commitment to deliver improved infrastructure, a range of works are currently underway or have recently been completed. 

With the recent increase in housing development, Taylor Street, Epsom has been 

reconstructed to a modern urban street with kerb and channel and underground 

drainage, costing $708,000. 

Mitchell Street revitalised 

$62,000 drainage works in Pallett Street, Golden Square, to alleviate drainage problems in 

the area, has recently been completed. 

Works valued at $4.2M are continuing on the redevelopment of Canterbury Park, 

Eaglehawk. 

A $680,000 upgrade and extension of Hamelin Street, White Hills has been completed. The 

works pave way for the expansion of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens that will commence 

construction in October 2015. 

Other works underway or completed: 

• Heywood Street, East Bendigo: 

East Bendigo Link road construction 

• Sailors Gully Road, Eaglehawk: 

Drainage and kerb upgrades 

• Edwards Road/One Tree Hill, Spring Gully: 

Blackspot funding works 

• McLachlan Street, Golden Square: 

Minor drainage work 

• O’Keefe Rail Trail 

(Lake Eppalock to One Eye Forest trail ) 

• High Street, Golden Square: 

Bike underpass in Bendigo Creek 

• Landscape upgrades of roundabouts and 

median strips at selected locations across 

the City 

• Frederick Street, Bendigo: 

Drainage and intersection improvements 

• McIvor Road, Bendigo: 

Minor drainage work 

• Caldwells Road, Eaglehawk: 

Drainage upgrade 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/ 

roadworks 

Following Council’s $3M investment, 

works to revitalise one of Bendigo’s most 

prominent streets, Mitchell Street between 

Pall Mall and Queen Street, are now 

complete. 

After many months of planning, including 

significant input from nearby traders on 

both the design and the approach to 

constructing the works, this important 

project that supports the Bendigo central 

business district was completed by the 

City on time and on budget. 

Ongoing consultation with nearby traders 

and property owners was also essential 

throughout the construction phase. To 

assist with this, the City established a 

project office on site to allow members 

of the public to see project plans for each 

stage of the works and to ask questions or 

discuss concerns with the site manager. 

Weekly emails detailing what could be 

expected in the subsequent weeks was 

another important method used for 

sharing information about the works. 

The revitalisation was much needed as 

this section of Mitchell Street, both on 

and off the road, was worn out and was 

not adequately serving traders, bus users, 

public transport operators, pedestrians 

and motorists. 

Since commencing in late 2013 the road 

pavement has been completely re-built, 

new underground drainage installed and 

footpaths widened and reconstructed. A 

new park area has been created on the 

corner of Mitchell and Hargreaves Streets, 

new lighting was installed and new trees 

and turf have been planted. 

The project was a major undertaking 

involving the removal of 750 metres of 

old and damaged drainage pipes and 41 

drainage pits, and the installation of 1,300 

metres of new storm water pipe, 35 new 

drainage pits and a gross pollutant trap. 

Over 1,000 tonnes of crushed rock, 3,000 

tonne of asphalt, 17,800 pavers and 

600 metres of kerbing has gone into 

the project. In addition, 12 trees were 

removed and replaced with 24 new 

trees located in specially designed cells 

to promote their growth and to avoid 

ongoing impacts on nearby paths, kerbs 

and roadway. 

What’s next 

The next stages in the exciting Mitchell Street 

redevelopment are the construction of a new 

covered bus shelter at the Mitchell Street end 

of Hargreaves Mall and the introduction of 

Public Transport Victoria’s Intelligent Transport 

System for the Bendigo bus network, 

which will provide real time bus arrival and 

departure information across the city’s entire 

bus network. 

These works are fully funded by the 

State Government as part of a $900,000 

contribution to this leading edge project. 

The real time bus information system will be 

a first for any area outside of the Melbourne 

metropolitan area. Together these two 

projects will allow bus travellers in the CBD 

to wait in relative comfort and be kept well 

informed of when their bus will arrive so they 

can then make their way to the stop located 

just a short walk away. 

The construction of the bus shelter and 

introduction of the Intelligent Transport 

System are expected to commence in 2015. 


Our community 

2ND Kangaroo Flat Scouts 

Category – Recreation 

We applied for the grant because we 

have some canoes and needed 

additional safety equipment. We 

purchased some foot pegs, rescue 

ropes and helmets. The rules of the 

Scouting Association are that we 

must have this equipment, so it’s 

good for us and peace of mind for the 

parents. It is excellent to have access 

to a grants program like this because 

fundraising can be difficult and being 

able to access these grants allows us 

to purchase equipment that will let us 

continue to have good programs for our 

young people to enjoy. 

Andrew Cockerall, Scout Leader 

Sustainability Guide online 

A recently launched online sustainability 

guide, www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/slg 

will help residents learn more about 

sustainable living and connect directly 

with the many local community 

groups and organisations involved in 

sustainability initiatives and activities. 

A wide range of topics are covered in 

the guide which features web links, 

an event calendar and information 

on sustainable gardening, sustainable 

transport, utility use and outdoor 

activities. It also includes information 

to help reduce costs in the home and 

workplace. 

People will be able to submit 

information to the event calendar on 

Check out the videos 

Four videos featuring local people 

have been produced as part of the 

online Sustainable Living Guide. 

The videos tell the stories of local 

people and families who are 

making positive environmental 

choices and what they have learnt 

on their journey so far. 

Topics include Getting About, 

Sustainable Food, Natural 

local sustainability and community 

events they are running and it will 

be the first port of call for people to 

connect to these types of events and 

become more involved. 

A great feature of the guide is a series 

of videos that tell the stories of local 

people and how they incorporate 

sustainable living in their day to day 

lives. 

Whether you are a long time 

sustainability enthusiast or just 

interested in making some simple 

changes, the Sustainable Living Guide 

has been developed for you. 

All you need to do is follow the links that 

interest you and you’re on your way! 

Environment and Outdoors and 

Sustainability at the City of Greater 

Bendigo. 

Be inspired and check out the 

videos today! 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/slg 

Community Grants 

supporting great ideas 

Not-for-profit groups listen up – do you have 

a project you want to get off the ground, or 

want to purchase new equipment but do 

not have the funds 

The next round of the City’s Community 

Grants Program opens on February 17, 2015. 

Grants of up to $5,000 can be applied for 

under the following categories: Community 

Development, Environmental Sustainability, 

Arts and Culture, Community Events, 

Recreation, Print and Digital Publications, 

and Healthy Communities. 

The program offers funding assistance 

for projects that promote community 

engagement and participation, support 

social inclusion and contribute to building 

healthy and strong communities. 

To help strengthen grant applications, the 

City will hold free grant writing workshops 

on February 9, 2015. 

“The City has offered grants to not-forprofit 

groups for more than 10 years 

and the application process is always 

very competitive,” Director Community 

Wellbeing Pauline Gordon said. 

“Each round attracts, on average, more 

than 100 applications, but a set amount of 

funding means only the best applications 

that meet the set criteria will be awarded 

funding. 

“Many groups have wonderful, innovative 

ideas that would not be possible without 

the help of the grants program, so it 

is always a pleasure to fund them in 

continuing to make a positive and valuable 

contribution to the community. 

“The City looks forward to supporting the 

next round of successful applicants.” 

More information on the program and 

details on when the workshops will be held 

can be found online. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/grants 

U3A Bendigo 

Category – Community Development 

We purchased an Apple computer to 

teach people the basics of connecting to 

the Internet, mainly for access to emails, 

sometimes to use search engines like 

Yahoo and basic word processing like 

copy and paste. It was really great to have 

access to this grants program. I’ve applied 

many times for grants and been successful 

before. They have all been very welcome. 

Tom Dewhurst, Tutor 

Bendigo Steam and Oil Engine 

Preservation Group 

Category – Arts and Culture 

The funding will be used to produce a 

short documentary film about the group, 

showcasing what they do and informing 

people about the heritage value of the 

machinery they restore and operate. The 

group itself is totally volunteer-based and 

fund most of the operation and restoration of 

the machinery themselves, so access to grants 

programs like this is a tremendous help. 

Jacques Sheard, Film Maker 

Bendigo Family Nature Club 

Category – Environmental Sustainability 

We’re a volunteer group that run monthly 

activities for Bendigo children and their 

families to connect them to the Bendigo 

bush. We run with no funds but wanted to 

purchase a few bits of equipment to run 

events outside of Bendigo. We went to the 

Melville Caves in the Kooyoora State Park 

and also purchased a sandwich board to 

use as a promotional tool, and magnifying 

glasses, bug viewers and butterfly nets. This 

grants program is very important; we don’t 

have an operating budget at all, we’re just 

a group of volunteers providing what we 

think is a really valuable service. 

Nicole Howie, Bendigo Family Nature Club 

Salvation Army Gravel Hill Community 

Garden 

Category – Healthy Communities 

With the grant we are planning to extend 

the community garden. VicTrack have 

given us some land on which to extend 

and the purpose of the extension will be 

to accommodate more Karen refugee 

families and other local families wanting 

to get involved in growing their own 

healthy produce. The community garden 

is supported by grants and donations, so 

without this funding it would not have 

been possible to extend the garden. 

Marc McDonald, Program Co-ordinator 


A meeting of great minds – City holds first Youth Summit 

If today’s youth are the leaders of tomorrow, 

then Greater Bendigo has a bright future. 

In October more than 90 people participated 

in the City’s first Youth Summit held at the 

Bendigo Exhibition Centre to encourage local 

young people to develop greater awareness 

about government decision-making and 

improve their team work and community 

skills. 

“The Summit was a great success. The young 

people were enthusiastic and made the 

most of the opportunity to discuss issues 

important to them and ways to address 

them,” the City’s Community Wellbeing 

Director Pauline Gordon said. 

“The collaboration between 

schools on the day was unique 

and inspiring” 

“Young people’s participation in community 

life is essential and the Summit was an 

excellent vehicle to gather thoughts and 

ways to improve their liveability in Greater 

Bendigo.” 

Former Mayor, Cr Barry Lyons opened 

the Summit, which also featured guest 

speakers Young Citizen of the Year and 

medical student Skye Kinder and Founder 

of Community Against Drugs Echuca Scott 

Beattie who both gave inspiring talks. 

Scott encouraged the participants to make 

informed choices and positively contribute to 

their communities, and Skye spoke about the 

importance of always following your dreams, 

even if you get rejected along the way. 

Participants then worked together to come 

up with a list of issues they wanted those 

close to them, youth agencies, the City and 

wider community to know were concerning 

to them. The top priorities identified were 

drugs and alcohol, mental health and 

personal safety. 

Student Mo Tanida said he welcomed 

the opportunity to join with other likeminded 

young people. “The collaboration 

between schools on the day was unique and 

inspiring,” he said. 

The Summit was targeted at young people 

aged 12 to 25 years and was planned by the 

Youth Action Group comprising students 

from local secondary schools. City staff 

will now focus on ways to work with young 

people to respond to these issues. The 

results and key messages from the day 

will be presented in a special report to the 

community at a later date. 

The Youth Action Group and the Youth 

Summit are important elements of the 

City’s Youth Strategy, which is supported by 

the Victorian State Government’s ENGAGE 

program. 

Connect with Cooking 

What is for dinner It’s a common 

question not everyone knows 

how to answer. 

If you are not a natural cook it 

can be an intimidating task to put 

together a nutritious meal each 

night. But a new Healthy Together 

Bendigo community kitchen 

program Connect with Cooking 

can help. 

The four week program teaches 

residents across Greater Bendigo 

about the importance of healthy 

eating and how to plan for and 

cook healthy meals. 

Director Community Wellbeing 

Pauline Gordon said the project 

is a great way to develop an 

understanding of how to cook 

and make positive lifestyle 

changes. 

“Research by the City has found 

local residents struggle to 

access healthy food and eat the 

recommended five serves of 

vegetables and two serves of fruit 

per day, and there is a negative 

trend of fast food consumption,” 

Pauline said. 

“Through the program, each 

week participants will learn the 

basics of cooking including when 

vegetables are in season and how 

to substitute ingredients for 

more healthy options, and 

then cook a meal they can take 

home to their family. 

“They will also be given a range 

of resources including recipes 

and will be linked to community 

gardens and other support 

programs to help them continue 

to put their new skills into action 

after the program has finished. 

“It is hoped participants will 

share their new skills with friends 

and family so they can begin to 

improve their overall health and 

wellbeing too.” 

The program runs until June next 

year and participants must be 

over the age of 16. 

There are community kitchens 

in Long Gully, Kangaroo Flat, 

Eaglehawk and Epsom-Huntly. 

The program will be rolled out in 

Heathcote next year. 

To register to participate contact 

Healthy Together Bendigo on 

4408 6573. 


healthytogether 

Get your Council news 

from the source 

Are you a 

Zoomer 

Robyn Warren. 

Zoom Quarterly is a newsletter 

for older people, about older 

people and produced by older 

people. 

The newsletter is calling 

all aspiring editors, writers, 

poets, illustrators, graphic 

designers, photographers and 

administrators to contribute to its 

ongoing development. 

Robyn Warren is a ‘Zoomer’ who 

contributes to the newsletter 

and says it is an important 

information source for Greater 

Bendigo’s mature age residents. 

“The newsletter aims to reach a 

diverse range of residents. Our 

focus is very much on positive 

ageing and advising mature 

residents on the opportunities 

available to them in the 

community – sport, art, whatever 

they might be interested in,” 

Robyn said. 

“Each edition has set feature 

articles, a ‘what’s on’ section, 

book review, a profile of a mature 

age person in our community 

and lots of promotion of positive 

ageing. 

“Of course, to ensure each 

edition remains interesting to all 

our readers we would warmly 

welcome more articles and other 

contributions.” 

ZOOM Quarterly is supported 

by the City and is designed 

and distributed by the Bendigo 

Weekly. 

Copies are available at libraries, 

health services, City offices and 

neighbourhood houses or online. 

If you have time to spare and 

would like to contribute or need 

more information, contact the 

City’s Positive Ageing Leader Ann- 

Marie Roberts on 5447 2248 or 

email zoom@bendigo.vic.gov.au 


zoomnewsletter 

Watch out for European Wasps 

European Wasps pose a very real problem 

in the Bendigo region from January to May 

and are especially active from late January 

through to April. 

Residents who are experiencing wasp 

problems are encouraged to get together 

with their neighbours and try to locate and 

destroy the nests. 

Residents who do locate a small or 

accessible wasp nest on their property can 

contact the City for advice on how it can be 

effectively treated using common garden 

products readily available from hardware 

stores, garden nurseries or supermarkets. 

City representatives can advise residents 

how to destroy nests and how they can make 

their properties less attractive to the wasps. 

It is important to realise that it is an offence 

under the City’s local laws for a nest to 

remain untreated on private property. 

European Wasps are a danger to both humans 

and animals as they cause problems for many 

horticultural and manufacturing industries 

and threaten our native ecosystems. 

European Wasps scavenge anything 

containing protein or sugar and are attracted 

to such things as meat, salads, soft drinks, 

beer, cordial and sandwiches and all 

indications are that the wasp problem 

will be bigger in the future unless we can 

either eradicate or slow down their rate of 

expansion. 

Residents who want further information 

or find a wasp nest on City property are 

encouraged to contact us by phoning 

5434 6000. 

Tips to keep wasps away from your garden: 

• Keep compost heaps and rubbish 

bins covered at all times 

• Remove old or damaged fruit from 

trees, as well as fallen fruit which are 

especially attractive to wasps 

• Clean up dog bones from the yard 

• Cover or remove pet food when not 

being eaten by your pets 

• Don’t use sprinklers or water your 

garden during the day 

• Cover bird baths and fish ponds with 

fine mesh or shade cloth to keep 

wasps out, or place them away from 

high activity areas such as paths and 

barbecues 

• Cover swimming pools with a plastic 

sheet and remove any wasps before 

swimming. Don’t try to remove live 

wasps with your bare hands 

• Remove ivy from the garden as wasps 

find it very attractive and frequently 

nest in stands of ivy 

• Cover all windows with fly screens 

and use a screen door or hanging 

plastic strips on 

all external 

doorways 

It’s never been easier to get 

your City of Greater Bendigo 

news from the source. 

Our media releases are 

published online at 


as soon as they are sent to 

media outlets and you can 

also subscribe to them using 

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You can keep up-to-date by 

visiting us on Facebook or 

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the City of Greater Bendigo 

photo gallery on Pinterest. 

We also produce a quick 

three-minute weekly news 

bulletin on YouTube for 

those of you who want to 

know the news, but don’t 

have a lot of time to spare. 

Links to our social media 

pages and to the RSS feed 

are on the City of Greater 

Bendigo homepage at 


Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with our latest news 


Playing in Greater Bendigo 

Long Gully 

Splash Park 

coming soon 

Construction of the new $750,000 

gold-rushed themed Long Gully Splash 

Park in Cunneen Street Long Gully is 

underway and will be completed this 

summer. 

This will be the first such park of its kind 

in Greater Bendigo that will be open 

free to the public and have zero depth, 

so it will be the perfect way for young 

families to beat the heat and stay safe 

around water. 

The new park will feature a range 

of water play equipment including 

a misting wagon, mushroom water 

bubblers, a water tower, a spraying 

serpent, flower and cactus, various 

water mist sprayers and water cannons. 

It will also feature a dry playground 

complete with a multi combination play 

unit, climbing net and basketball ring. 

In addition there will also be a barbecue 

shelter, picnic tables and shade sails. 

The design of the new splash park will 

reflect Bendigo’s rich mining history and 

will be an important asset to serve the 

wider community. 

Game, set and match at Lockwood South 

The City has completed a significant 

$150,000 upgrade of three tennis courts at 

Lockwood South Tennis Club. 

Mayor Cr Peter Cox said this has been 

an important project that has involved 

the resurfacing of all three courts with 

a plexipave acrylic surface and new 

linemarking. 

“As part of the project the boundaries of 

the two original acrylic courts have also 

been extended to provide sufficient run 

off for players. This included extending 

the concrete footprint and relocating and 

replacing all fencing around the perimeter of 

all three courts,” said Cr Cox. 

He said the upgrade was required to repair 

damaged and worn court surfaces and meet 

current standards. 

“With the work complete the court’s now 

meet the standards required by Tennis 

Australia’s guidelines which is great news 

for the members of the Lockwood South 

Tennis Club and all players in the Marong 

and District Tennis Association who use this 

facility. 

“The upgrade is expected to increase player 

participation, opportunities for player 

development and importantly provide a safe 

playing environment for all tennis players 

who use the facility. 

“Sporting and recreation clubs and groups 

such as the Lockwood South Tennis 

Club play an important role in the local 

community and Council is committed to 

providing the facilities and infrastructure 

required to make our municipality one of the 

most liveable in Australia,” said Cr Cox. 

Below: L-R Cr Elise Chapman, Hugh Molenaar, 

Mayor Cr Peter Cox and Anna McGee. 

Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Advertiser. 

GAME PLAN SERIES 

Empowering volunteers at our 

sporting clubs 

A sporting club without volunteers is like a 

car without petrol. Neither works. 

Volunteers are essential to running 

a successful sporting club; they do 

everything from managing finances to 

cutting the oranges. 

To empower volunteers at grass roots 

sport and recreation clubs the City has 

begun a series of free information and 

training sessions, the first of which was 

held in November. 

Manager Active and Healthy Communities 

Patrick Jess said the sessions are aimed at 

ensuring local clubs’ long-term viability. 

“Volunteers have great passion and 

give their time generously but it is also 

important they have the correct skills to 

positively contribute to their sporting 

club,” said Patrick. 

“These sessions focus on building a 

club’s capacity in the long-term and 

equipping volunteers with knowledge 

on best practice, how to attract and 

retain members and volunteers, financial 

sustainability and event management. 

“All local sporting and recreation clubs 

are encouraged to attend the two-hour 

sessions, which are being held on different 

nights of the week to accommodate 

training and competition commitments. 

If representatives attend three or more 

sessions, they go into the draw to win a 

visit from a sports celebrity guest speaker. 

WIN YOUR CLUB A SPECIAL PRIZE 

“The winner can pick from a list including 

Andrew Gaze, Kevin Sheedy and Anna 

Meares. The club can then feature the 

speaker at a fundraising event, which its 

volunteers will organise and promote 

using the skills developed through the 

training sessions.” 

The remaining sessions will be held from 

6pm – 8pm as follows: 

Increasing participation at your club 

Wednesday February 11, 2015 

Club Court Sports Complex, 

Club Court, Strathfieldsaye 

How to win grants 

Monday March 16, 2015 

Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve, 353 

Midland Highway, Epsom 

Effective social media and 

communications strategies for sports 

clubs 

Wednesday May 6, 2015 

Golden Square Recreation Reserve, Wade 

Street, Golden Square 

Community fundraising that works 

Tuesday June 23, 2015 

Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve, 353 

Midland Highway, Epsom 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/clubtraining 

Sporting Clubs who attend three or more GAME PLAN workshops will go into 

the draw to win a celebrity guest speaker for their club.* 

* Terms and Conditions apply. Visit the website for details. 

Download the TeamUp app and get active 

Are you looking for a way to get outside 

and get active but don’t want to go it 

alone 

Download the VicHealth smartphone 

app TeamUp and connect with people 

in your local area interested in the 

same fitness activities as you. The app 

is also a great, free way for clubs to 

attract new members. 

Manager Active and Healthy 

Communities Patrick Jess said the app 

is designed to connect like-minded 

people and inspire local residents to 

get outside and get active. 

“Sometimes we lack the motivation 

to exercise but if we have someone to 

meet with or can join a club, it’s always 

easier,” said Patrick. 

“The app can promote a range of 

fitness activities from organised sport 

like football, netball or cricket clubs, 

informal activities like going for a 

run, or more adventurous sports like 

abseiling or water skiing. 

“It aims to involve as many people as 

possible and the more people that 

register their activity or sports club 

on the app, the more people will be 

able to connect with physical activity 

opportunities in the Greater Bendigo 

area. 

To download the TeamUp app, visit the 

iTunes app store, Google Play or find 

TeamUp on Facebook. 

www.teamup.com.au 


Planning for the future 

A compact city with convenient public transport and more bike and walking paths 

What people are saying 

about the ITLUS report: 

Managing Director of Birchgrove Property Damien Tangey 

supported the call for greater housing diversity near transport 

links. 

“There is enormous potential for higher density housing 

development in central Bendigo, for example, which in turn 

means less traffic on our roads,” Mr Tangey said. 

Glenn Christian, Managing Director of Christian’s Bus Co, said 

encouraging more people to commute on public transport 

would help to reduce future road congestion. 

“As our population heads towards 200,000, there is no doubt that 

our roads will become heavily congested at peak times unless 

we entice more people to use buses and trains to get to and from 

work, school and university and frequency is a key element to a 

successful Public Transport system,” Mr Christian said. 

City Director of Planning and Development Prue Mansfield 

said relatively small actions by individuals, households and 

neighbourhoods will cumulatively make a significant difference. 

“ITLUS is not about spending lots of money – much of it is 

about spending our money smarter – making better use of the 

assets we already have. Nor is it about changing the world,” Ms 

Mansfield said. 

“The number of cars is growing on some key roads by two to 

three per cent per year. Persuading three to four per cent of 

drivers each year to use another means of travel or to reconsider 

whether to take the trip at all will slow and then reverse the 

growth.” 

School Principal at White Hills Primary Damien Jenkyn said he 

was keen for more students to travel to school by bike or on foot. 

“Safe bicycle and walking tracks will ensure that parents can feel 

comfortable about sending their children to school on a bike or 

on foot and, of course, there is the added bonus of having fitter 

and healthier students,” Mr Jenkyn said. 

Regular public transport user and a youth representative on the 

ITLUS Reference Group, Caleb Ellis said frequent and reliable 

public transport services would encourage more people to 

leave their car at home. 

“If we’re serious about meeting the transport needs of young 

people and making sure they stay in Bendigo to build their 

future careers here instead of moving to other large cities 

like Melbourne, we have got to get serious about the public 

transport services we provide,” Mr Ellis said. 

A challenge has been set for Greater Bendigo 

– continue to do what we have always done 

when it comes to transport planning or do 

things better and smarter. 

A new report commissioned by the City details 

a vision for Greater Bendigo to be a compact 

city with more frequent public transport, 

more bikes and walking and less reliance on 

cars for local neighbourhood trips. 

A suite of targets includes 3,000 residents 

living in and around central Bendigo by 2031, 

up from just 700, and the number of people 

catching public transport rising more than 

six-fold to 10 per cent of all trips. 

Eighty per cent of school children and 15 per 

cent of the workforce would regularly commute 

using active transport modes such as walking, 

riding or scooting and the number of heavy 

vehicle movements through Pall Mall would 

be cut from 10 per cent to just two per cent. 

The report is the latest step in developing 

the Connecting Greater Bendigo – Integrated 

Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) and 

caters for a doubling of Greater Bendigo’s 

population to 200,000 (Loddon Mallee South 

Regional Growth Plan target). 

It would represent a fundamental shift in how 

Council plans for the future development of 

Greater Bendigo and includes five overarching 

objectives: 

1. Compact Bendigo - Preventing urban 

sprawl and strengthening activity centres 

2. Connected Bendigo - Providing convenient 

and efficient public transport options 

3. Healthy Bendigo - Improving health and 

wellbeing through active transport 

4. Moving Bendigo - Enhancing the 

movement of people and goods 

5. Inspiring Bendigo - Providing an innovative 

approach to planning and a clear path for 

implementation 

To help meet the objectives the report 

recommends a frequent high quality bus 

service to form the backbone of the city’s 

public transport network and a series 

of freight hubs and road improvements, 

including more prominent signage, to reduce 

the number of trucks entering the city centre. 

Safe walking and bicycle paths would 

entice more people to ride and walk to 

their destination and higher density urban 

development would be encouraged at key 

locations along public transport routes to 

lessen the number of cars on roads. 

The current urban rail network would be 

progressively developed along existing rail 

corridors over the next 30 years with the 

addition of new stations at places like Huntly, 

Maiden Gully and Marong. 

Since its launch at White Hills Primary 

School, the report has been the subject of 

much public discussion with listening posts 

hosted by the City held in the Hargreaves 

Mall, Bendigo Railway Station, Sidney 

Myer Place, Eaglehawk, Huntly, Strathdale, 

Strathfieldsaye, Marong, Heathcote and 

Elmore. 

People have also been able to comment by 

emailing the City’s Strategy Team, sending in a 

letter or talking directly to a team member. 

The report and the information gathered from 

the community will now be used to develop 

the final ITLUS to be considered by Council in 

the first half of next year. 

Keep up-to-date with ITLUS online. 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/transportplanning 

Safe environment the key to active transport 

Creating a safe environment for 

students to walk and ride to and from 

school will be vital to the success of 

the Integrated Transport and Land 

Use Strategy (ITLUS). 

A survey commissioned by the City 

shows that while students show a 

desire, willingness and confidence 

in travelling to school using active 

transport modes such as cycling, 

walking or scooting, parents are most 

concerned about safety. 

The survey of students and parents 

at White Hills Primary School was 

undertaken by La Trobe University 

students. 

Eighty six per cent of the students 

surveyed said they wanted to travel 

to and from school using an active 

mode of transport, while just two of 

the parents surveyed said they were 

allowing their children to do so on a 

regular basis. 

Parents and students agree, though, 

that travelling in groups adds to the 

attractiveness of active travel. For the 

students, it is seen as another way of 

spending time with their classmates 

and friends, for the parents, there is 

an obvious advantage of not having 

to drive students to school. Research 

for ITLUS has shown that about 30 

per cent of all traffic in the morning 

is from parents driving their children 

to school. 

The survey recommends that White 

Hills Primary School increases 

awareness of existing bike/walking 

paths and promotes their use 

within the school community. It 

also recommends that the school 

facilitate group meeting points at 

agreed locations to enable students 

to travel in groups. 

White Hills Primary School Principal 

Damien Jenkyn welcomed the survey 

and said his school was committed 

to promoting active transport modes. 

“We look forward to working with 

the City in promoting the benefits of 

riding and walking to and from school 

and to ensuring that these active 

modes of transport are not only safe, 

but seen to be safe by our parent 

community,” Mr Jenkyn said. 

Keith Reynard, President of the Sustainability Group welcomed 

the focus on walking and riding. 

“Riding and walking is a great alternative to using your car. It’s 

not only the healthy thing to do for individuals, but it’s healthy 

for our environment too,” Mr Reynard said. 

J & A Light Freight director Andrew Turpie said making better 

use of the existing arterial road network made sense. 

“We don’t need to reinvent the wheel, just make smarter use of 

what we’ve got,” Mr Turpie said. 

“We already have an established freight route network 

which does need some intersection, clearance and signage 

improvements. It generally works okay for now but it needs to 

be upgraded if we are to meet the needs of Greater Bendigo’s 

population when it reaches 200,000 people.” 


Our local economy 

Anticipating the Ulumbarra Theatre opening 

Bendigo Senior Secondary College Music Coordinator, Matt Pankhurst and BSSC Year 11 music student, Geordie Walker. 

When the Ulumbarra Theatre opens to the 

public next year there is a group of people 

who will have an added sense of excitement 

and anticipation. The students and staff of 

Bendigo Senior Secondary College will gain 

access to their new facilities that include a 

90-seat black box theatre, a dance studio, 

music rooms, recording studio and a learning 

kitchen attached to an alfresco café. 

The sharing of spaces and facilities is not 

just as a result of the location of the theatre, 

Anne: 

Matt: 

Anne: 

Matt: 

How are the teacher’s feeling 

about the move 

It is exciting and it has been 

wonderful to be able to customise 

the work spaces to a degree. We’ve 

been able to say - these are the 

facilities we have already, and this 

is how we need to improve on what 

we’ve got in order to meet student 

outcomes. 

I believe apart from the rehearsal 

and teaching spaces there is a 

recording studio 

Yes. Everyone knows you can 

record very easily using a laptop 

and a microphone these days, but 

to have a quality recording studio 

where a student can walk in, press 

a button, record themselves and 

then listen back straight away. So 

there’s that aspect and also having 

superior quality classrooms that 

collaboration has been at the heart of the 

design from the very beginning. 

“Having a learning kitchen attached to 

a student café will give catering and 

hospitality students, not only from Bendigo 

Senior, access to first class facilities and 

opportunities” Principal of Bendigo Senior 

Secondary College, Dale Pearce, said. 

“We are looking forward to having commercial 

caterers on site that will add to the knowledge 

and experience of our students.” 

Music Coordinator at Bendigo Senior Secondary College, Matt Pankhurst talks with 

Capital Venue & Events Marketing Manager, Anne Henshall about their involvement in the 

development of the space. 

Anne: 

Matt: 

are designed acoustically to meet 

our needs. The facilities here were 

very well thought out in the 80’s but 

they’ve dated quite a lot. There isn’t 

much that is digital about these 

facilities. We haven’t compromised 

anything, we’ve added very well 

thought out acoustics and having 

really good music playback 

equipment was a high priority. 

Are there other added benefits 

to being situated so close to 

Ulumbarra Theatre 

Having members of the MSO or 

Orchestra Victoria and those type 

of ensembles come (to Ulumbarra 

Theatre), we can team up with them 

very easily with master classes while 

they’re in town. It’s going to be a five 

to ten metre walk from our upstairs 

classroom to back stage where we 

can have a direct conversation with 

some of those great performers. 

In a chat with a BSSC Year 11 music student, Geordie Walker, Anne discussed 

the impact of the new facilities for students. 

Anne: What does having 

new music rooms and 

performing arts space mean 

for students 

Geordie: Well it’s going to be a lot 

better not only in terms of the 

space, because as much as I 

love the old B Block building 

it is quite confined. There 

are only two practice rooms 

and in the new theatre there 

is going to be eight. There’s 

going to be a 1,000-seat 

auditorium and a recording 

studio as well. It’s going to 

be a much more professional 

environment. It’s going to be 

so much easier to work in. 

Anne: Are students starting to get 

excited about the move 

Geordie: At the start we were a bit 

concerned about what it was 

looking like. We knew what 

facilities we were going to 

have access to and we were 

certainly looking forward to 

it, but now that we can see 

its shape and how it all works 

together I think it’s going to 

be really good. 

Anne: Are you pleased to be 

moving into the environment 

around the theatre 

Geordie: Yes, I think. Well we don’t 

currently have a theatre 

as such and with visiting 

performances like the entire 

Melbourne Symphony 

Orchestra or the Australian 

Ballet that can come up 

(to Bendigo) and put on 

productions it’s just going 

to provide so much for our 

education. 

Anne: What’s your instrument of 

choice 

Geordie: French horn, but I play 

trumpet as well. 

Anne: Does your study cross over 

to drama and what do your 

student colleagues think 

about the new drama studio 

and dance facilities 

Geordie: No I haven’t and I don’t know 

a great deal about the drama 

and dance facilities but I do 

have a few friends who are 

involved in those arts and 

they also say that there is just 

going to be so much more 

space to work in. It’s quite 

confined with all the arts 

bunched into a fairly small 

area (at BSSC) and we end up 

having clashes in space. 

New theatre to host Bendigo Bank Conference in 2015 

The new Ulumbarra Theatre will host the 

Bendigo Bank’s Community Bank® National 

Conference in September 2015 - an event 

expected to attract more than 1,000 visitors 

to the region. 

Bendigo Bank Executive Community 

Engagement Robert Musgrove said he was 

delighted the conference was returning to 

the “home of Community Banking” in 2015. 

“We held our first national conference in 

Bendigo in 1999, when Community Banking 

was in its infancy. At that time we had just 

less than 10 Community Bank® branches 

in operation and about 40 delegates in 

attendance. Since then, our Community 

Bank® network has grown to 305 branches 

serving communities across Australia,” 

Robert said. 

“I can honestly say that without it, 

we would not have been able to 

bring an event of this scale here 

to our hometown” 

“Thanks to the development of the 

Ulumbarra Theatre the Bank is able to bring 

such a large conference to Bendigo. This 

facility is going to be an invaluable addition 

to the City of Greater Bendigo. 

“I can honestly say that without it, we would 

not have been able to bring an event of this 

scale here to our hometown. 

With more than 90 per cent of delegates 

coming from out of town, the conference 

will provide significant economic benefits for 

Bendigo and is expected to inject more than 

$1M into the local economy. 

The conference will use Ulumbarra Theatre’s 

main auditorium and adjacent breakout 

rooms. Sessions are also planned to be held 

at The Capital, Old Fire Station Theatre and 

the VAC Arts Centre, with the opening night 

festivities to be celebrated at the Bendigo Art 

Gallery. 

Above: On the inside - a sneak preview of the 

Ulumbarra Theatre. 


Looking for something uniquely Bendigo 

New Food Fossicking tour for locals and visitors 

A new online gift store selling only goods 

made and produced in the Bendigo region is 

now open. 

Tourism Manager Kathryn Mackenzie said 

www.uniquelybendigo.com.au is an exciting 

new initiative of the Bendigo Visitor Centre 

which showcases the best of our region. 

“It’s very exciting and no other 

visitor centre that we know of has 

online sales of their local goods.” 

A new Food Fossicking Foodie Tour of some 

of Bendigo’s best local food businesses is 

now available. 

City Manager Bendigo Tourism Kathryn 

Mackenzie said the new tour highlights 

Bendigo’s fast growing foodie culture and 

aligns with the ethos of the established 

Food Fossicker Central Victorian Food Trade 

Network. 

“Bendigo has some great local food 

businesses that showcase local produce and 

it was decided to develop an organised tour 

to provide opportunities for participants to 

experience a bit of everything in a two hour, 

45 minute tour,” said Ms Mackenzie. 

Tour participants will taste their way around 

five of the following venues - Indulge Fine 

Belgian Chocolates, Favourite Flavours, 

The Good Loaf Sour Dough Bakery, The 

Epicurean, Bendigo Wholefoods and Masons 

of Bendigo. 

The participants will meet the makers and 

hear their stories, sample handcrafted treats, 

fill their tour bag with gifts from each venue 

and enjoy a light lunch of regional produce 

and wine. 

“It’s a great concept and we expect it to 

interest both locals and visitors to Bendigo. 

“Bendigo is developing a great foodie culture 

and the tours are taken by trained volunteers 

with a passion for food and wine, especially 

local produce,” Ms Mackenzie said. 

The Bendigo Food Fossicking Tour is priced 

at $75 per person and the tour operates 

each Saturday from 10am until 12.45pm, 

departing from the Bendigo Visitor Centre. 

Bookings are essential and can be made by 

phoning 1800 813 153 or online. 

www.bendigotourism.com 

“Bendigo Visitor Centre is the first visitor 

centre in Australia to launch an online store 

of this type. The store is an extension of 

the Uniquely Bendigo gift shop which is 

Bendigo’s premier outlet for quality local and 

regionally crafted designs,” Kathryn said. 

Uniquely Bendigo stocks an enticing range 

of local art, jewellery, homewares, fashion 

accessories, books and food products. 

The gift and artisan showcase provides 

a collection of local, unique, handmade 

specialty pieces that are perfect for making 

someone feel special. Or for someone 

difficult to buy for, the extensive historical 

book collection featuring local authors is 

also a great option. 

“Bendigo has a strong and growing 

reputation as an arts and cultural destination 

and we view the opportunity for visitors to 

purchase something unique to our region 

as an important part of their experience. If 

they see something in the visitor centre and 

regret not buying it they can always visit the 

new online shop and do so after they return 

home. 

“This is about linking with small business 

providers and supporting local artisans to 

showcase the best of our locally produced 

goods. It has enormous potential to evolve 

and grow and promote our local artists and 

businesses. It’s very exciting and no other 

visitor centre that we know of has online 

sales of their local goods. 

“It’s a win for local businesses and artisans 

who supply the shop and a win for tourism,” 

Kathryn said. 

The Bendigo Visitor Centre is forging an 

Australian leadership role in the delivery of 

innovative visitor servicing programs and 

has been recognised for its achievements by 

winning state tourism awards and also the 

prestigious Australian Tourism Award. 

“It’s important for the visitor centre to 

continue to evolve and the launch of our 

new online gift shop will simply add to the 

range of services and attractions currently 

offered at the Bendigo Visitor Centre,” 

Kathryn said. 

www.uniquelybendigo.com.au 

Grab the new 2015 Bendigo Dining & Shopping Guide 

The City and Bendigo Tourism has 

launched the new 2015 Bendigo Dining & 

Shopping Guide just in time for the festive 

holiday season. 

City Tourism Manager Kathryn Mackenzie 

said the handy sized guide is a fantastic 

resource designed to showcase the best 

local shopping and dining experiences for 

both residents and visitors to Bendigo. 

“We think it will provide some great 

inspiration with Christmas and the summer 

holidays fast approaching. It also promotes 

the shop local and support small business 

campaigns supported by the City,” said Ms 

Mackenzie. 

The guide features Bendigo CBD shopping 

and dining precincts including Bath Lane, 

Chancery Lane, Bull Street, Hargreaves and 

Williamson Streets, Lyttleton Terrace and 

Queen Street, Mitchell Street, Pall Mall/ 

High Street and View Street which all have 

their own style, points of interest and local 

characters. It also features other local 

businesses in a Minutes Away section as 

well as a section on the Heathcote Region. 

Information on local events, parking, the 

“ Bendigo has some very 

interesting and unique shopping 

and dining experiences and 

the guide is a fantastic way to 

promote these businesses to our 

visitors and also our own local 

residents.” 

Bendigo Region App, Food Fossicking, Age 

Good Food Guide Trail and Artists Walk 

along with maps and a shopping directory 

and a dining directory are also included in 

the new guide. 

“Bendigo has some very interesting and 

unique shopping and dining experiences 

and the guide is a fantastic way to promote 

these businesses to our visitors and also 

our own local residents. 

“It’s very much about encouraging people 

to shop local and to support Greater 

Bendigo’s small food and retail businesses. 

“I encourage anyone who is looking for a 

unique Christmas gift or a great place to 

eat out with family and friends over the 

summer holiday season to check out the 

guide for some inspiration,” Ms Mackenzie 

said. 

The Bendigo Dining & Shopping Guide 

is available from the Bendigo Visitor 

Information Centre or online at 

www.bendigotourism.com.au 


Arrangements over the Christmas period 

Cr Rod Fyffe, Hazeldene’s Manager of Corporate Affairs Vicki Gaudion, Mayor Cr Peter Cox with Hazledene’s staff at the announcement of the naming rights to next year’s Bendigo Easter Festival. 

Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Advertiser. 

New sponsor and new look for Easter Festival 

The Bendigo Easter Festival has a major new 

naming sponsor and a bright new brand. 

Festival Committee Chair Cr Rod Fyffe said 

he is delighted that local family owned 

business Hazeldene’s have signed on as the 

festival’s new naming rights sponsor for the 

next two years. 

“Hazeldene’s are one of Bendigo’s iconic 

local companies who have been a strong 

supporter of the Bendigo Easter Festival’s 

Good Friday Family Day since 2008,” Cr Fyffe 

said. 

“It was time to refresh the look 

of the festival branding to give 

it a more contemporary and 

bright feel and reflect the new 

Hazeldene’s naming sponsorship” 

“This type of corporate support is integral to 

the success of the festival and it’s great to see 

one of the city’s largest corporate employers 

continue their support for Australia’s oldest 

ongoing festival.” 

Hazeldene’s Manager of Corporate Affairs 

Vicki Gaudion said the company is proud to 

be the new naming sponsor for the festival 

for the next two years. 

“The Bendigo Easter Festival is a truly local 

The City of Greater Bendigo has launched an 

online mapping service designed to simplify 

residents access to Council information. 

Called Community Compass and prominently 

linked on the Council website at 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au, the new service 

enables users to type in their address and then 

readily access a range of Council information 

such as: 

• Bin collection days 

event that is loved by the community and we 

at Hazeldene’s believe it’s a great fit for our 

company,” Ms Gaudion said. 

Cr Fyffe said the Hazeldene’s Bendigo Easter 

Festival is also excited to unveil its bright new 

brand. 

“It was time to refresh the look of the festival 

branding to give it a more contemporary and 

bright feel and reflect the new Hazeldene’s 

naming sponsorship,” he said. 

Find it on Community Compass 

at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au 

• Council office locations 

• Planning zones and overlays 

• Contact details for local ward Councillors 

• Nearby playgrounds, preschools and childcare 

facilities 

• Designated maternal and child health centres 

Community Compass also displays the route 

from a resident’s property to the facility being 

sought and provides access to the latest aerial 

imagery. 

Over the Christmas holiday period, the City 

will continue to provide residents with access 

to services. 

The City’s main offices in Lyttleton Terrace, 

Hopetoun Street, Mundy Street and Heathcote 

will close at 3pm on Wednesday, December 

24, 2014 and will re-open on Monday January 

5, 2015. 

The City has a 24 hour responsive 

telephone service. For emergency services 

at all hours please phone 5434 6000. 

Garbage and Recycling 

Collections 

Garbage Collections 

Residential garbage collections scheduled 

for Christmas Day (Thursday December 25) 

will be collected on Saturday December 27. 

All other days remain unaffected. Please put 

your bins kerbside before 6am as per your 

normal collection day. 

Recycling Collections 

Residential recycling collections scheduled 

for Christmas Day (Thursday December 25) 

will be collected on Saturday December 27. 

All other days remain unaffected. 

Eaglehawk Landfill 

Closed Christmas day only. Open all other 

days from 8am to 4.30pm. 

Heathcote Landfill 


scheduled days from 8am to 5pm. 

Strathfieldsaye Transfer Station 


scheduled days from 8am to 5pm. 

Bendigo Livestock Exchange 

Closed from 11am Friday December 19 and 

re-opening 7.30am Friday January 2, 2015. 

The truck wash facility will be closed from 

11am December 19, re-opening 7.30am 

January 2, 2015 (site will be padlocked shut). 

Community Services 

Home Care and Food Services 

The City of Greater Bendigo Offices will be 

closed from 3pm Wednesday December 24 

and will re-open 8.30am Monday January 5, 

2015. 

During this period limited Home and 

Community Care Services will be provided 

as pre-arranged including Personal Care, 

Respite Care and Food Services. 

Domestic Assistance (Home Care), Property 

Maintenance or Planned Activity Group will 

not be available from December 24 until 

January 5. 

Food Services will be closed on December 25 

and 26, 2014 and January 1 and 2, 2015. 

Food Services will operate as normal on all 

other weekdays (excluding public holidays). 

Deliveries will be made prior to any closures 

for clients requiring meals over this time. 

If you do not require any services or wish 

to make changes to your services for the 

Christmas period please notify our office on 

4408 6560. 

If you have an urgent matter while the office 

is closed during the Christmas and New 

Year period, please contact our after-hours 

service on 5434 6000. 

Maternal and Child Health 

Services 

All Maternal and Child Health Services close 

at 3pm on Wednesday December 24, 2014 

and will re-open the week commencing 

Monday January 5, 2015. During this period 

the 24 hour Maternal and Child Health Line 

is available on 13 22 29. 

• Annie Galvin 

Cnr Mitchell & Gladstone Streets, Bendigo 

• Bendigo “The Mews” 

Sidney Myer Place, Bendigo 

• Eaglehawk 

Bendigo Community Health, Seymoure 

Street, Eaglehawk 

• Elmore 

Jeffery Street, Elmore 

• Epsom 

Strickland Street, Epsom 

• Heathcote 

39 Hospital St, Heathcote 

• Helen Jessen Children’s Centre 

145 Crook Street, Strathdale 

• Kangaroo Flat 

13 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat 

• Lightning Reef 

74 Holmes Road, Bendigo 

• Maiden Gully 

13 Helm St, Kangaroo Flat 

• Marong 

Leslie Street, Marong 

• Spring Gully 

117 Spring Gully Road, Spring Gully 

• Strathfieldsaye 

Club Court, Strathfieldsaye 

Childcare Centres 

• Annie Galvin Early Learning Centre 

Gladstone Street, Bendigo 

Closes 6pm on Tuesday December 

23, 2014 and re-opens 7am 

Tuesday January 6, 2015 

• Bendigo Early Learning Centre 

Park Road Bendigo 

Closes 6pm on Tuesday December 

23, 2014 and re-opens 7.30am 

Tuesday January 6, 2015 

• Bendigo Occasional Care Centre 

Gladstone Street Bendigo 

Closes 5.30pm Tuesday December 23, 

2014 and re-opens 8.30am Monday 

January 12, 2015 

• Helen Jessen Early Learning Centre 

145 Crook Street, Strathdale 

Closes 6pm on Tuesday December 23, 

2014 and re-opens 7.30am Tuesday 

January 6, 2015 

Multi Storey Car Parks in 

Edward Street & Hargreaves 

Street 

The Multi Storey Car Parks in Hargreaves 

and Edward Streets will be open in line with 

extended retail shopping hours: 

Date 

Hours 

Saturday December 13 7am - 6pm 

Sunday December 14 

Monday December 15 

Tuesday December 16 

Wednesday December 17 

Thursday December 18 

Friday December 19 

Saturday December 20 


Monday December 22 

Tuesday December 23 

Wednesday December 24 

Thursday December 25 

Friday December 26 

Saturday December 27 


7am - 6pm 

7am - 7.30pm 

7am - 7.30pm 

7am - 7.30pm 

7am - 9.30pm 

7am - 9.30pm 

7am - 6pm 

7am - 6pm 

7am - 9.30pm 

7am - 9.30pm 

7am - 7.30pm 

CLOSED 

7am - 9.30pm 

7am - 6pm 

7am - 6pm 

Bendigo Art Gallery 

Bendigo Art Gallery will be open to the 

public from 10am to 5pm every day except 

Christmas Day. 

The Capital 

The Capital will close at 3pm Christmas Eve 

and reopen at 9.15am Monday January 5, 

2015. 

Visitor Information Centres 

• Bendigo 

Open 7 Days, 9am – 5pm 

Closed Christmas Day 

• Heathcote 

Open 7 Days, 9am – 5pm 

Closed Christmas Day 

New Year’s Eve Fireworks 

Fireworks will take place at 12 midnight on 

New Year’s Eve Wednesday December 31, 

2014 from the tower in Rosalind Park. For 

safety purposes, revellers are reminded 

that there is an 85 metre exclusion zone 

surrounding the Rosalind Park tower. 

The City would like to advise that the QEO 

car park off View Street will be closed 

from 6am Wednesday December 31 until 

approximately 9am Thursday January 1, 

2015 for safety reasons associated with the 

New Year’s Eve fireworks display. 

It is strongly recommended that the 

appropriate measures be put in place by 

animal owners to ensure animals are safe. 

The Mayor, Councillors, CEO and 

staff wish everybody a very happy 

and enjoyable festive season and a 

safe and prosperous 2015. 


Your Councillors 

January 

What’s on 

5-13 Commonwealth Bank Australian Country Cricket Championships 

Bendigo cricket ovals around Bendigo with final at the QEO 

9-10 Paramedicine Conference 

Latrobe University 

19-23 Bendigo Country Week Cricket 

Various Locations 

24-26 Bendigo Junior Classic Basketball 

Bendigo Stadium 

February 

4-7 National Galleries Summit Conference 

The Capital/View Street precinct 

5-7 Herald Sun Tour Stage 1 and 2 

Stage 1 Finish Pall Mall/Stage 2 Start Tom Flood 

13-16 Victorian Open Road Cycling Championships 

Various Locations 

March 

6-7 Bendigo International Madison Cycling 

Tom Flood Sports Centre velodrome 

For more details visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/events 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to 

keep up to date with our latest news. 

facebook.com/CityofGreaterBendigo 

twitter.com/Greater_Bendigo 

pinterest.com/greaterbendigo 

youtube.com/cityofgreaterbendigo 

Our printer continually manage and 

improve our Environmental Management 

System in accordance with AS/NZS 

14001 and communicate this policy 

and other environmental management 

commitments to all staff. 

Whipstick Ward 

Eppalock Ward 

Lockwood Ward 

Mayor Cr Peter Cox 

T: 5434 6189 

M: 0427 318 490 

E: p.cox@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr James Williams 

T: 5434 6208 

M: 0427 211 677 

E: j.williams@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Lisa Ruffell 

T: 5434 6206 

M: 0429 946 171 

E: l.ruffell@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Mark Weragoda 

T: 5434 6192 

M: 0400 363 586 

E: m.weragoda@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Helen Leach 

T: 5434 6190 

M: 0419 549 574 

E: h.leach@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Rod Campbell 

T: 5434 6203 

M: 0427 514 429 

E: r.campbell@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Contact us 

City of Greater Bendigo 

195-229 Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo 

Postal PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552 

Telephone 5434 6000 

Hearing or speech impaired 

Call us via the National Relay Service on 

133 677 

Fax 5434 6200 

Email requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au 

Website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au 

After Hours/Emergency Number 

5434 6000 

Operating Hours (Main Office) 

8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday 

Executive Management Team 

Craig Niemann 

Chief Executive Officer 

Pauline Gordon 

Director, Community Wellbeing 

Stan Liacos 

Director, City Futures 

Darren Fuzzard 

Director, Presentation and Assets 

Marg Allan 

Director, Organisation Support 

Prue Mansfield 

Director, Planning and Development 


T: 5434 6215 

M: 0429 292 084 

E: b.lyons@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Elise Chapman 

T: 5434 6193 

M: 0418 330 289 

E: e.chapman@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Cr Rod Fyffe 

T: 5443 7673 

M: 0419 874 015 

E: r.fyffe@bendigocouncillors.org.au 

Councillor emails like other correspondence are the property of the 

City of Greater Bendigo and may be referred to a staff member for 

action. As with any correspondence, if you would like emails to be 

kept private and confidential please place “private and confidential” 

in the subject line. 

32 

Greater Bendigo magazine 

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/gbmagazine

Greater Bendigo Magazine December 2014

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