SECTION HERE 1

Greater BendigoApril 2020

COVID-19 service updates

Shout4Good – Doing business differently

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CONTENTSNEWS

4 COVID-19 service updates

Rates payment relief during COVID-19

5 Reconciliation benefits everyone

City of Gastronomy plans take shape

BUSINESS

6 Localised is a digital community for local businesses

SERVICES

7 Investment in new, upgraded facilities for Heathcote

8 New Early Learning Hub for Huntly

Time is running out to register your pool and spa barriers

9 Planning controls and bushfire management

Bringing back southern pygmy perch to local waterways

10 What’s in the works?

COMMUNITY

11 Kangaroo Flat Library update

12 Help Your Neighbour through the coronavirus pandemic

13 Shout4Good campaign promotes local businesses

14 Congratulations to our top citizens

Gender equity – why it’s important

15 Bringing the library to your loungeroom

Kangaroo Flat Soldiers Memorial project completed

ACTIVE AND HEALTHY

16 Region’s health revealed

LIFESTYLE

17 Elemental Desires adorns Bendigo Art Gallery

City recognised with top honours

Back in your mailbox soonWe’ve had to adapt this edition of GB Magazine due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

We had prepared a great edition promoting the 150th Easter celebrations and a great range of winter events when life as we knew it changed!

The next edition of GB Magazine will be back in your mailbox this spring. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy catching up with our latest news online.

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NEWS 3

WELCOME

Looking good Bendigo!Have you got a great photo of Bendigo? Submit your image to gbmag@bendigo.vic.gov.au and you might just see it featured here next edition.

We live in interesting times!

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed almost everything about our daily life, from the way we go to work and school, to how we shop for food, exercise and socialise.

Who has a very clean house at the moment? Or has gone through all their cupboards and made a pile of clothes to be donated? Has anyone painted their house or re-oiled their deck?

What about revisiting favourite recipes, following exercise workouts on YouTube or using video conferencing technology to stay in touch with friends and family?

The things we do to fill in time at home and stay connected and healthy, now home is where we must largely stay.

Mostly, I think our residents are doing a wonderful job of following home isolation and social distancing measures.

There are now only four reasons to leave your home: food and supplies, medical care, exercise, and work or education (where this can’t be done remotely). Indoor and outdoor gatherings are limited to groups of two (unless you are with immediate family/household members) and

we must remember to keep at least 1.5 metres away from each other.

We must all play our part to stop the spread of the virus. The wellbeing of our community, particularly that of our front-line healthcare workers, police, ambulance, childcare, supermarket staff and local business staff depends on it.

We are so fortunate to have such a dedicated workforce of people in critical care, community and service roles. We would be lost without them and when we’re told to stay at home, it is so the health of everyone, but particularly these people, isn’t compromised and they can continue to look after us.

COVID-19 has had a huge impact on our local economy, particularly for our casual workforce and the industries that have had to temporarily close. For the businesses that could, many have worked quickly to create

or boost their online presence and remain virtually open through click

and collect and delivery services.

Please shop local whenever you can, both now and when we eventually return to normal. Your continued support

will be critical in order for our businesses to

financially recover.

The draft 2020/2021 Budget has been delayed so Council can include

a range of financial measures to help residents and businesses during this time. It is also possible to arrange flexible rate payment plans, including the ability to defer all payments on rates until September 30 this year and not incur any interest.

Keep checking on friends, relatives and neighbours by phone, text message, email or dropping a care parcel on their doorstep, you never know how something

like this can impact on others, particularly the longer it goes on.

I think it’s important to remember that this time will pass and there will be life after COVID-19. So I ask our community to hang in there, reach out for help when you need it and I can’t wait to see our city and region thrive again on the other side.

Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke

Want to read this document in an alternative format? The City is committed to providing documents that are easy to read for all. If you would like to read the magazine in an alternative format e.g. large print or text only, contact Customer Service on 5434 6000 or requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au and we will endeavour to service your request in the quickest time possible.

CONTACT THE CITY OF GREATER BENDIGO

Main office 15 Hopetoun Street, Bendigo

Postal PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552

Telephone 5434 6000

Hearing or speech impaired? Call via National Relay Service on 133 677

Email requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au

Website www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

After hours/emergency number 5434 6000

Operating hours (Hopetoun Street office) 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday

Follow us

Photo submitted by Bill Conroy

NEWS4

To protect the health and safety of residents, staff and volunteers, the City of Greater Bendigo has had to make some changes to service delivery during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. For more information visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/COVID-19

The following is a list of services that are temporarily closed until further notice:

• Bendigo Art Gallery

• Bendigo Venues and Events, including The Capital Theatre, Ulumbarra Theatre, The Engine Room, Dudley House and Bendigo Town Hall

• Bendigo and Heathcote Visitor Centres

• Goldfields Libraries branches and agencies

• Playspaces

• Swimming pools and sporting centres

- Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre

- Faith Leech Aquatic Centre (re-opening for the 2020/2021 season)

- Peter Krenz Leisure Centre

- East Bendigo swimming pool

- Long Gully Splash Park (re-opening for the 2020/2021 season)

- Bendigo Stadium (including bistro and gaming)

COVID-19 service updates

For the latest information on COVID-19, please visit the Department of Health and Human Services website www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

If you suspect you may have COVID-19, call the dedicated hotline on 1800 675 398, which is open 24 hours, 7 days. Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

If you require food assistance, a range of agencies can assist. For details, visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/foodrelief

For business support, please contact the City’s Business Help Desk by emailing bhd@bendigo.vic.gov.au or visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/business

Be aware of the increased risk for family violence during this difficult time. For more information on family violence support, visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/family-violence-crisis-response-and-support-during-coronavirus

These services continue to be delivered but with some changes:

IMMUNISATION SESSIONSAll public immunisation sessions will only take place from:

Strathdale Community Centre Crook Street, Strathdale

Strathdale Community Centre has been chosen as the immunisation venue because as a large venue it supports good social distancing measures and has accessible car parking.

Visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/immunisation for details of the next immunisation session.

MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTHThe City’s Maternal and Child Health centres are closed and the following changes to service delivery are in place:

• Telephone consultations will replace usual centre visits

• Face-to-face appointments for children aged 0–8 weeks and those with complex needs will be the priority

• First time parent groups are on hold

Please ensure you have downloaded the MCH app and have the MCH 24hr number saved, 13 22 29. You can still contact the City on 4408 6590.

LANDFILL AND TRANSFER STATIONSCustomers can only pay by EFTPOS at the City’s Eaglehawk landfill and the Goornong, Heathcote and Strathfieldsaye transfer stations.

BARC (BENDIGO ANIMAL RELIEF CENTRE) Pets can still be adopted and lost pets can still be claimed, but this is now strictly by appointment.

Please note, all adoption fees/lost pet infringements can only be paid over the phone. Cash will not be accepted at this time.

Should you want to meet/collect a pet, you will be directed to the BARC car park where the animal will be securely waiting for you. Staff will be on-site to assist if

necessary, but every effort will be taken to limit contact between staff and members of the public.

BARC is still accepting surrendered pets, however we ask that if possible you contact us

prior to arrange a suitable time to bring your pet in.

Rates payment relief during COVID-19In response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the community, the City of Greater Bendigo has announced a series of measures to help reduce the pressure on residents, businesses and sporting clubs.

Rates measures that have been introduced include:

• Extension of the fourth rate instalment, now due June 30, 2020

• Interest will no longer be charged for overdue rates through to September 30, 2020

• No interest will be charged on unpaid rates for all ratepayers. This will be reviewed as the situation changes over coming months

• Rates payment plan options include the flexibility to defer payments if a payment plan cannot be committed to at this time

Other measures in place to help residents, businesses and sporting clubs:

• The City is paying all suppliers (regardless of payment terms) as quickly as possible in its weekly payment schedule

• Flexibility for payment plans, including the ability to defer all payments to September 30, 2020

• Temporary halt to debt collection

• Temporary halt to the follow up of unpaid animal registrations

• Ground use charges and lease fees will be waived for sporting clubs that have been unable to use and/or operate their sporting grounds due to the coronavirus situation

If you are unable to pay your rates, please email us at ratesenquiries@bendigo.vic.gov.au or call us on 5434 6000 so we can help with a new arrangement.

NEWS 5

Reconciliation benefits everyoneThe City of Greater Bendigo has a deep commitment to advancing reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in particular our Traditional Owners the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung, and all families living in central Victoria.

As we finish implementing our first Reconciliation Action Plan and prepare to develop our second one, it is timely and important to reflect on our achievements together.

Reconciliation Action Plans are common among private enterprise, not-for-profit organisations and all levels of government. They express a commitment to and understanding of the importance of reconciliation but also include practical, measurable actions that focus on developing meaningful relationships, fostering respect and realising opportunities to contribute to improving reconciliation.

One of our most significant achievements over the last few years was the successful collaboration between Bendigo Art Gallery, the Dja Dja Wurrung and the Burke Museum in Beechworth to return 20 Dja Dja Wurrung artefacts back to Country, which were later displayed at the Gallery and are now held there in custom-made cases with the Gallery acting as a ‘Place of Keeping’.

During the life of this plan, Bendigo Art Gallery appointed a First Nations Curator and is now proudly one of the only regional art galleries to have such a position. In the past year the Gallery has staged two

major exhibitions celebrating First Nations culture and has initiated a number of public programs led by First Nations artists and designers, as well as programs specifically engaging with First Nations community participants. When the Gallery reopens following the COVID-19 pandemic, its next major exhibition will be Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion – a world-first, developed and curated by the Gallery team.

In recent years the City has also welcomed a range of public art displays and theatre performances, including YAPENYA held at Rosalind Park and Bangarra Dance Theatre at Ulumbarra. YAPENYA was staged on the fifth anniversary of the Victorian Government recognising the Dja Dja Wurrung as Traditional Owners of part of central Victoria.

From a business perspective, the City was pleased to collaborate with Loddon and Mount Alexander Shires to improve ways Local Government can work with Aboriginal businesses to increase participation in procurement processes and ultimately increase economic outcomes such as creating more local jobs. All of this builds upon our existing strong and vibrant rural economy.

Working with Traditional Owners has been critical to the success of the Reconciliation

Action Plan and it has been important to be able to partner with the Dja Dja Wurrung on big projects such as Reimagining Bendigo Creek, planning for stage two of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens Garden for the Future and a range of vegetation management across Greater Bendigo, as well as naming our aquatic centre in Kangaroo Flat the Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre.

Looking ahead there are opportunities to celebrate Aboriginal food history as part of Bendigo’s new status as a City of Gastronomy and we can see through attendance at events relating to NAIDOC Week, Reconciliation Week and more recently the Indigenous Film Festival that conversations about reconciliation are increasing. More people, more often are taking up the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture and history. By including the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung people we all make a positive investment for our future generations.

As we move through 2020 we look forward to having productive conversations about the next Reconciliation Action Plan and have already completed community surveys and focus group planning sessions. We look forward to this next chapter of advancing reconciliation in Bendigo.

Craig Niemann, Chief Executive Officer

City of Gastronomy plans take shapeSince Bendigo became a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in November last year, lots of work has been happening so the city can quickly take advantage of this new title.

International gastronomy expert Dag Hartman visited Bendigo in early February to help finalise a four-year plan for City of Gastronomy projects and activities. He shared his knowledge with City of Greater Bendigo staff and met with prospective members of the City’s new Gastronomy Advisory Committee, as well as producers, foodies and creatives across the region.

Mr Hartman is from Östersund in Sweden (also a City of Gastronomy) and is a leader in the international gastronomy network. Mr Hartman has been appointed as official mentor for Bendigo and the region to further develop an inclusive, resilient and creative city.

Some of the projects that are in the pipeline for Bendigo and the region include:

• Develop a series of a food precincts with trails that link different sites

• Support the creation and distribution of a Six Seasons calendar with Traditional Owners

• Work with the other Victorian Creative Cities (Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat)

The City of Greater Bendigo will be working with the Committee to develop these and other events throughout the year.

For more information go to www.bendigogastronomy.com.au

City of Greater Bendigo Manager Regional Sustainable Development Trevor Budge, Bendigo Art Gallery Cafe Director Daniel Hurle and gastronomy expert Dag Hartman.

BUSINESS6

Bendigo Animal Relief Centre20 Piper Lane, East Bendigo t. (03) 5441 2209 www.bendigoanimalreliefcentre.com.au

Proudly operated by the City of Greater Bendigo

Whether you’ve lost your best friend or you’re looking for a new one, the Bendigo Animal Relief Centre, or BARC for short, can help.

At BARC we provide a safe and caring temporary home for your lost or new best friend.

BARC has a variety of cats and dogs available for adoption. All our animals are temperament tested and our staff work hard to ensure that new pets are a suitable match for potential adoptees.

All our cats and dogs available for adoption are microchipped,

wormed, desexed and vaccinated, and you can check them out on our website at www.bendigoanimalreliefcentre.com.au

Our Facebook page is full of special tips, information and of course great cats and dogs needing a new home.

So make sure you follow us at BARC, Bendigo Animal Relief Centre, where you might find your new best friend!

FacebookFollow us on

if you’re lookingfor a new

friendbest

Localised is a digital community for local businessesLocalised is a free business-to-business online network for Greater Bendigo.

As a digital community, local businesses can promote their products and connect people and services to each other. It features current tenders, content marketing, events and a directory.

Supported by the City of Greater Bendigo, Be.Bendigo and GROW Bendigo, the business-to-business platform enables businesses to share and connect, generate more local revenue and help create stronger local supply chains across the Greater Bendigo and central Victoria region.

Content on Localised is generated by our local business community and is moderated for quality, business-focus and in the interest of local businesses. Localised gives businesses the opportunity to raise their profile and let others in the digital community know what they have to offer.

Sign up for free at centralvic.localised.com.au and consider how you can do more business locally (buying, selling, upskilling or partnering) and discover more local business opportunities at Localised.

Localised gives businesses the opportunity to raise their profile and

let others in the digital community know what they have to offer.

Investment in new, upgraded facilities for Heathcote The City of Greater Bendigo has invested approximately $950,000 in updating a range of facilities in Heathcote. The changes include restoring the exterior of the former Court House and Shire Council Chambers to their former glory, new public toilets and landscaping at Barrack Reserve, and upgrades to the Heathcote Swimming Pool, Heathcote Bowls Club and RSL Building.

New public toilets now openThe new public toilet block at Heathcote’s Barrack Reserve features a covered entrance, security lighting, three male toilets and urinal, six female toilets, a unisex accessible toilet and provision for a future changing place facility.

The new toilets were a priority project for the Heathcote community and a major action from the City’s Public Toilet Strategy.

The old toilets were constructed in the 1980s and have since been removed and the area landscaped.

Shade and solar for Heathcote Swimming PoolA new shade structure and solar heating system has been installed at Heathcote Swimming Pool.

Other works that took place included a drainage upgrade, a new concrete concourse, new wet deck and grating

along each side of the pool, re-painting of both pools, an irrigation upgrade, new turf and mulching of trees.

These works were completed before the current swimming season and were supported through $95,000 provided by the Heathcote Pool Committee.

Freshen up for Bowls Club and RSLHeathcote Bowls Club has been given a fresh coat of paint on the inside, together with new exit doors, new oven and range hood, and re-concreting of external paths and the barbeque area.

Works were undertaken in consultation with the club and completed before the recent bowls season.

The program to renew facilities in the Heathcote RSL also continued by completely remodelling the amenities and accessible toilet, including painting, installation of mechanical ventilation, floor coverings, new fixtures and LED lighting.

Heritage colours returned to local landmarkThe former Heathcote Court House and Shire Council Chambers building has been returned to its original colour. The building is now a warm stone colour, a vast difference from when it was painted white.

The City worked with Heritage Victoria to remove the old vinyl paint, which had caused moisture to become trapped in the building, and apply a new, breathable paint that will allow moisture to evaporate naturally.

The former Heathcote Court House and Shire Council Chambers was designed by Melbourne architect John Flannagan and constructed in 1863. The building was funded by both the local council and the State Government and is quite unusual for incorporating the Council Chambers with the Court House.

SERVICES 7

SERVICES8

Time is running out to register your pool and spa barriersDoes your home or property have a swimming pool or spa?

All pool and spa barrier fencing on private property now needs to comply with new Victorian Government legislation, which was introduced on December 1, 2019.

As part of the new legislation, all Victorian Councils must establish and maintain a register of private pools and spas, with owners required to be on the new register by June 1, 2020.

The register contains specific information such as the construction

date of a pool or spa and the applicable barrier standard as prescribed by current regulations.

The new legislation makes the owner the primary person responsible for registering their pool or spa. They must engage a suitably qualified registered building practitioner to perform an inspection and lodge a proof of compliance certificate with their Council. These inspections are required every four years.

All swimming pools and spas, both permanent and relocatable, which hold more than 300mm (30cm) of water must have a compliant barrier in place.

Relocatable pools that do not consist of multiple components and do not

require any assembly are not subject to the new legislation. An example would be a small inflatable pool that requires no assembly other than inflation and is not capable of containing more than 300mm (30cm) of water.

For more detailed information about the new Victorian Government legislation, please visit www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/swimming-pools

The new legislation makes the owner the primary person responsible for registering their pool or spa.

New Early Learning Hub for HuntlyStaff, students and health professionals are preparing to move into the newly redeveloped Huntly Early Learning Hub in May, subject to coronavirus restrictions being lifted.

The $2.45M project has added an additional kindergarten room and more than doubled the capacity of the Shine Bright Huntly Kindergarten, which operates from the hub and now provides 132 places for four-year-olds and 40 places for three-year-olds.

The project has also delivered two rooms for Maternal and Child Health appointments and one room for complementary health services to operate from, and all facilities are accessible for people of all abilities.

The hub, located on Stephenson Street, now

has space for a community play group and can consult with up to 70 families each week through the Maternal and Child Health Service.

City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke said the modern, purpose-built facilities would help local children get the best possible start to their education and overall wellbeing.

“This is a fantastic one-stop-shop where children and families can access quality learning, play and care services, and help ensure the children have access to a

kindergarten place the year before starting school,” Cr O’Rourke said.

“Greater Bendigo has experienced significant growth in recent years and this is forecast to continue over the next two decades, with Huntly’s overall population expected to grow by 225 per cent by 2036.

“The facility also supports families living in nearby Epsom, Goornong and Elmore, so it is critical our facilities keep pace

with community need and this project responds directly to the City’s Community

Plan by providing important early years infrastructure.”

This is the second early learning hub to be built by the City, with the first built in Strathfieldsaye in 2018. The City owns and is responsible for the maintenance and upgrade of early years facilities across Greater Bendigo.

“This is a fantastic one-stop-shop where children and families can

access quality learning, play and care services.”

SERVICES 9

Bringing back southern pygmy perch to local waterwaysOver 800 captive-bred southern pygmy perch were released across four local wetlands in January, with a further 800 fish released into the Bendigo Creek and Axe Creek catchments in March, along with plans to release into two Gunbower forest wetlands.

Southern pygmy perch were once common in the wetlands and slow flowing creeks of the southern Murray Darling Basin. They are now endangered in New South Wales and South Australia and their numbers are rapidly declining in Victoria.

Southern pygmy perch were last recorded in Gunbower forest in 1997 and it’s thought the species has been locally extinct from the Bendigo Creek since the gold rush.

North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Project Officer Peter Rose said since the 1970s, introduced fish such as redfin, trout and carp, habitat destruction, altered flows, disconnection of floodplain wetlands and the millennium drought had contributed to the southern pygmy perch’s decline.

“There are a few isolated populations left in the upper Campaspe and Avoca catchments, but they are fragmented and highly inbred,” Mr Rose said.

“The North Central CMA, in partnership with the City of Greater Bendigo, Native Fish Australia and the Australian New Guinea Fish Association, is working to genetically rescue the species and help it thrive again.

“We have collected fish from the remaining populations and set up a captive breeding

program with a specialist

southern pygmy perch breeder. The

fish are now ready for re-stocking into rehabilitated habitats.

“We’ll be undertaking monitoring over the next year to determine if the fish released into the Bendigo and Gunbower wetlands are breeding.”

The project is part of North Central CMA’s Native Fish Recovery Plan and the Tri-State Alliance ‘Magnificent Six’ project.

Bendigo Creek has been modified greatly throughout its history. It began as a ‘chain of ponds’ containing fresh water for the local Dja Dja Wurrung people. Many iconic species live in or along the creek including native fish, amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles. Many sections of the Bendigo Creek and its tributaries are managed by the City of Greater Bendigo which is working closely with other land management authorities to improve the environmental and aesthetic values of local waterways. Extensive works have been undertaken along local waterways to provide a suitable environment for fish to thrive and survive.

“There are a few isolated populations

left in the upper Campaspe and Avoca catchments, but they are fragmented and

highly inbred.”

Planning controls and bushfire managementThe severe bushfires across the country this summer were a timely reminder to remain vigilant all year round and keep your property cleared and ready for the next fire season. Cutting grass, removing any rubbish and keeping gutters clear of debris, as well as having a bushfire plan in place, are all important steps to help keep you, your family and our community safe.

Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO)

Following the 2009 Victorian bushfires, the Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) was introduced by the State Government into all Victorian planning schemes to better identify areas at higher risk of bushfire.

This planning control is applied to areas with the potential to be affected by bushfires, ember attack and radiant heat. A planning permit is generally required for all new developments in the BMO.

The planning assessment looks at issues such as:

• Vegetation and fuel loads

• Availability of water

• Property access

• Building construction standards

Importantly, anyone who has built a new house in recent years in the BMO is likely to have ongoing conditions on their planning permit for the maintenance of

their property. Requirements may include keeping grass down to a minimum length, restricting the types of vegetation that can be planted, keeping flammable vegetation and materials away from buildings, and maintaining clear access to properties. Landowners are encouraged to regularly review their planning permit conditions to ensure they are being followed.

The City of Greater Bendigo’s Statutory Planning unit regularly inspects properties for compliance with planning permits.

You can check if your property is affected by a BMO by visiting ‘Community Compass’ on the home page of the City’s website. Just type in your address and select the Planning Overlays and Zones option.

If you’re thinking of building or renovating and are unsure of your BMO obligations, contact the City’s Statutory Planning unit on 5434 6355 or email planningenquiries@bendigo.vic.gov.au

More BMO information is available at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/bmo

SERVICES10

1. Marong West stage two construction of a main drain from the rail reserve to Bullock Creek via the caravan park. Due for completion in June and expected to cost $351,000.

2. Construction of an on-road, separated two-way bike path on Ellis Street, Flora Hill from La Trobe University to the city centre. Works are estimated to cost $500,000 and are nearing completion.

3. Road reconstruction works on Patas Road, Maiden Gully includes new kerb and channel and a shared path link to Marist College. Expected to be completed in May and cost $1.5M.

AXEDALE

Axedale-Goornong/Epsom-Barnadown Road – Black Spot Program intersection upgrade

BENDIGO

Ewing Park – oval redevelopment

Garsed Street – footpath upgrade

CALIFORNIA GULLY

Averys Road and Jobs Gully Road – roundabout construction

EPSOM

Epsom Village – skate park construction

IRONBARK

Eaglehawk Road – footpath construction

KANGAROO FLAT

High Street – drainage upgrade

To keep up to date with works in your area, visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/roadworks

WHAT’S IN THE WORKS?As part of the Council’s commitment to deliver improved infrastructure, a range of works are currently underway or have recently been completed.

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COMMUNITY 11

Kangaroo Flat Library updateWork on the new $1.38M Kangaroo Flat Library in Lockwood Road to deliver an improved library service has commenced and is expected to be completed in June 2020.

The works will modernise and repurpose the Lockwood Road site to transform the existing hall area and front rooms into library spaces, create a new entrance, upgrade services, undertake repairs to the existing structure and install solar panels.

Other work will include improvements to the exterior of the building, landscaping and the formalisation of car parking.

As reported last year, the library is relocating to Lockwood Road because the owners of the existing site at Lansell Square Shopping Centre want to repurpose it.

The Lockwood Road site was chosen as the new library location because the building was underused, is owned by the City of Greater Bendigo and is large enough to supply an expanded library service for Kangaroo Flat and neighbouring communities.

It is close to public transport, the Bendigo Creek walking and cycling path, Kangaroo Flat Shopping Centre, Bendigo Community Health Service and local schools, with access for all and car parking options at or near the site. The City also owns land on both sides of the site, which provides the potential to develop the area into a unique community hub for Kangaroo Flat and its neighbouring communities in the future.

The City is working with Regional Roads Victoria about possible improvements for pedestrian and vehicle access to and from the site.

The project is being funded by the City ($850,000) along with $400,000 from the Victorian Government through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and $50,000 from Goldfields Libraries.

WE ASKED, YOU TOLD, WE’VE LISTENED!Thank you to more than 250 people who took the time to complete a survey or attend an open day to let us know what they wanted to see provided at the new Kangaroo Flat Library in Lockwood Road.

You told us what you are excited about, what you are worried about, what you want to see more of and what you love, as well as sharing your thoughts on how much you value the services provided by the Kangaroo Flat Library.

Your feedback was very helpful and is shaping the way the new library will look and operate into the future.

What we are doing as a result of your feedback:

• We are working with disability access architects and occupational therapists to make sure the library is as accessible as possible for everyone

• We are taking your feedback into consideration in regards to decisions about library fixtures and furnishings

• The existing library staff will move to the new library site and there will also be new programs, books, shelving, furniture and specialised spaces for you to enjoy, including the fish tank!

• The building design has been altered to provide a drinks station for members of the community to use

• Suggestions for a community garden and social enterprise café will be considered as part of future development opportunities at the site

The works will modernise and repurpose the Lockwood Road site to transform the existing hall area and front rooms into library spaces.

City of Greater Bendigo Engineering Project Manager Josh Owens (right) with site foreman Craig Hutchins.

COMMUNITY12

Help Your Neighbour is a community campaign to encourage central Victorians to help their neighbours with simple acts of kindness in the face of COVID-19.

An initiative of Bendigo Foodshare, Haven; Home, Safe, Bendigo Community Health and the City of Greater Bendigo, Help Your Neighbour promotes positive actions to help withstand the uncertainty and disruption of COVID-19.

Limiting social contact to stop the spread of the virus can mean many people feel lonely and isolated or are unable to get access to items they need. This can be especially true for the most vulnerable in the community, such as the elderly or ill, or those who are unemployed or experiencing financial hardship.

Bendigo Foodshare Chair Cathie Steele said that while it was important to follow guidelines about social distancing, it was also important to stay connected.

“Neighbourhoods and communities have always found ways to work with each other, by sharing resources and checking on others,’’ she said.

“We know there are many in our community doing great things to help others and we hope others will be inspired to do the same.

“Whether that’s a phone tree in your community, having scripts filled, making a phone call to check in each day, or chatting over the fence – it’s important we reach out to make sure others are okay.

“So many people do want to help each other, and it’s beautiful.”

Some suggestions on how you can help your neighbour, include:

• Put rolls of toilet paper on their doorstep or leave them a home cooked meal

• Set up a phone tree

• Leave your number in their mailbox, asking them if they need anything

• Call to have a chat

• Virtual lunch or morning tea with colleagues

• Shop for a neighbour

• Sharing the produce from your veggie patch

• Volunteer to help others in need, e.g. Bendigo Foodshare

• Support a local business

To get ideas on how you can Help Your Neighbour, keep an eye on the new Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/helpyourneighbour.centralvic

Help Your

Neighbour through the coronavirus pandemicCoronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting our lives in many negative ways, however some people within our community are finding creative ways to care for and connect with others.

“It’s important we reach out to make sure others are okay.”

COMMUNITY 13

The way we shop for goods and services has been transformed with the restrictions in place to help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the community. These changes have had a significant effect on our local businesses and many are finding new ways to provide a service for people at home or online.

The City of Greater Bendigo’s new Shout4Good campaign promotes the remarkable efforts taking place in our business community. Local businesses are invited to tell us briefly what they are doing so we can promote their new ways of working by sharing it on our Shout4Good business webpage. Residents are also encouraged to contribute and give a ‘shout out’ to an individual or a business that has provided a service or created an innovative approach for their business.

To keep trading during this challenging time, many local businesses are responding with new ways to deliver goods and services. Some are embarking on new marketing and business activities or operations that they may not have considered or had in place before the COVID-19 pandemic. By doing so, these innovative small-to-medium businesses are doing their best to keep staff in jobs and meet customers’ needs whilst adhering to strict hygiene and social distancing rules to protect their employees and customers.

Many businesses are adapting by offering online delivery services for the first time, reassuring customers by promoting how they have successfully incorporated contact-free procedures. Most businesses are encouraging customers to pay online so no cash is exchanged.

Social media has proved to be a lifeline for many local businesses, as it is one of the quickest ways to market to loyal and potential customers. They, in turn, can share and spread the word about what a local business is doing.

The use of video is a popular way to market a product, offer tips, or produce guides and virtual experiences that people can enjoy from home.

City Director Strategy and Growth Bernie O’Sullivan said businesses were finding resourceful ways to keep operating.

“Businesses are going to extraordinary lengths to respond to this very challenging period. Shout4Good is a platform that highlights how local businesses are finding new ways to operate and

provide their goods and services to our community,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“I encourage local businesses to get in touch with us and tell us what you’re doing so we can publish your details on the City’s Shout4Good site. Customers are also invited to tell us what great things they’ve experienced and give a shout out to businesses. It will mean a lot to our business community during this difficult time.

“We can all play a role in backing our local businesses. By shopping locally and sharing

what these businesses are doing with your family and friends, you will be helping these businesses to get through this.

“Once this pandemic has passed, we want our businesses to be in a position to be fully operational once again. To do so, they need our help now so I encourage you to get involved in the City’s Shout4Good campaign.”

Please visit our Shout4Good campaign to see a list of businesses who have detailed what they can offer you. You can also add your own recommendations.

NEW WAYS OF WORKING• Professional services companies offering limited free advice to individuals

and businesses affected by COVID-19

• Many retailers have changed their store layout to have one entry and one exit, installed signs to guide customers on social distancing rules

• Zero contact delivery or click and collect

• Self-isolation packages

• Extending takeaway options or offering frozen or pre-prepared meals

• Promoting the use of environmentally-friendly takeaway containers

• Maximising social media to promote and market new ways of working

• Creating virtual or video experiences/guides for customers

• Local businesses helping each other

• Promoting hygiene control practices and contact-free procedures to reassure customers

• Businesses donating food to Bendigo Foodshare to help around 12,000 people in the region each week

Businesses in our region are doing things di� erently

during these challenging times. We’d like to share new

and innovative ideas from across our business community.

If you’re doing things di� erently or would like to do a

‘shout out’ for someone else, tell us the details at

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Services/Business

For more information contact the Business Help Desk on

(03) 5434 6000 or bhd@bendigo.vic.gov.au

Doing business di� erently

Shout4Good campaign promotes local businesses

COMMUNITY14

Gender equity – why it’s importantThe Greater Bendigo Coalition for Gender Equity will soon release its first Gender Equity Strategy.

The Coalition is made up of more than 20 local organisations and groups, including the City of Greater Bendigo, that are committed to advancing gender equity and preventing violence against women and children.

The new strategy is expected to be finalised by June 2020. It will guide the Coalition’s actions towards ensuring all residents are respected, safe to participate in all aspects of community life and able to access the resources they need to achieve their aspirations, whilst living in a community that is free from violence against women.

The need for a Gender Equity Strategy.

Gender inequity is unfair, unjust and unacceptable. Addressing it is critical in preventing violence against women, recognising and respecting the value of all people, and delivering the social and economic benefits that arise from communities that are safe, fair and just for everyone.

Gender inequity leads to gender inequality. Across Greater Bendigo we know that gender inequality impacts health, education and work outcomes and community participation.

Gender inequality is not just a women’s issue, it affects men too. Men may face discrimination or disapproval when taking on career paths, caring responsibilities and activities traditionally reserved for women.

To achieve gender equity we need to recognise that within communities, people of different genders currently

have varying opportunities, resources and responsibilities. To ensure fairness, strategies are needed to create an equal playing field. The new strategy will help to guide activities across our community and monitor progress towards achieving gender equity.

Last year 532 people from across Greater Bendigo completed an online survey that measured their attitudes

towards gender equity. They answered questions about gender roles at home, in the workplace, in leadership positions, in relationships and what characterises domestic violence. Their response is informing the new strategy.

City of Greater Bendigo Health and Wellbeing Director Vicky Mason said gender equity meant different things for different people.

“Whether that’s equal pay for equal roles and responsibilities, flexible working arrangements for men and women, sharing home and caring responsibilities equally, supporting women and girls’ participation in sport, or ensuring our streets, public buildings and other facilities are welcoming and safe,” Ms Mason said.

“The new strategy will equip the Coalition to lead this important change in our community.”

www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/genderequity

“The new strategy will help to guide activities across our community and monitor progress towards achieving gender equity.”

Congratulations to our top citizensFor the past 26 years, the City of Greater Bendigo has been recognising two residents each year for their outstanding service to the community.

These awards are the highest honour the City can give to two people who demonstrate the values that Australians consider important and who are fantastic role models to others.

The 2020 City of Greater Bendigo Citizen of the Year is Anne Prime and the Young Citizen of the Year is Harley Hayes.

Both have been recognised for their commitment and leadership in the Greater Bendigo community through their hard work, compassion and dedication in helping others.

Anne is a passionate volunteer with the Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia (RDA) and has been involved in that organisation for 24 years where she has worked tirelessly to organise and provide outstanding programs and facilities for young people and adults with disabilities.

Through her leadership with RDA, Anne organised the construction of an equipment shed at Bendigo Showgrounds and extra equipment for horses and riders.

Anne is also secretary of the Mandurang South Recreation Reserve Committee, helping to secure solar panels for the pavilion and instigating significant improvements to the facilities.

With changes in infrastructure at the showgrounds, Anne organised a new home for RDA Bendigo at Mandurang South Recreation Reserve and the construction of a new shed, storage containers, yards and water tank.

Anne is also a member of Mandurang CFA.

As the newly-appointed Young Citizen of the Year, Harley is a leader in his chosen field of occupational therapy and is a dedicated mentor for other student occupational therapists. He is also passionate about supporting people with a disability to live their best life.

He is a member of the Bendigo Mental Health Professional Steering Committee and was Vice President of the Bendigo Occupational Therapy Student Association. He works tirelessly to promote his

profession and the importance of access to rural health services.

Harley volunteers for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal and was the Allied Health Early Career Excellence award winner at the 2019 Australian Allied Health Awards.

Congratulations to both recipients who have demonstrated fantastic community

spirit through compassion, hard work and selflessness in their actions, and who strive to help others and make a difference in the community.

An honour board located in the stairwell of the Bendigo Town Hall proudly displays the names of all City of Greater Bendigo Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year recipients over the past 26 years.

“Both have been recognised for their commitment and leadership in the Greater Bendigo community.”

COMMUNITY 15

Bringing the library to your loungeroomWe say this a lot but libraries are so much more than books. Libraries are about lifelong learning and connecting with your community. As we all learn to adjust to this strange new ‘normal’ we find ourselves in, our libraries are continuing to do what they do best: evolve.

Libraries are community loungerooms – places where everyone can go and just be, with no expectations. And while we can’t offer you these physical spaces right now, there is still lots your local library can offer you right in the comfort of your own home!

“We understand the important role our libraries play in the health, wellbeing and connectivity of our community,” Goldfields Libraries Chief Executive Officer Mark Hands said.

“So we’re working hard to bring as many library services as we can right to your loungeroom.

“Our children’s librarians are busy at home, stepping behind the camera to make sure young families are still connected through Storytime sessions. We’re sharing book reviews and recommendations on our Facebook pages, sharing boredom-busters for kids and bringing author talks online. This is on top of what’s already available through our website.

“We’ve transformed our eLibrary into ‘Library in your Loungeroom’ – an easily accessible one-stop shop for free educational, entertaining and informative resources. It combines all the usual online books, music, movies, magazines and

newspapers you may already be familiar with, and adds new and exciting interactive online content from trusted sources.”

All resources are free but some do require a library card. Sign up online at www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/join

“One thing we really want to emphasise is that library staff are still working and

available for help or even just to chat. Email us with your name and phone number and we’ll give you a call or get in touch via Facebook. Social distancing doesn’t mean social isolation, so please stay in touch,” Mr Hands said.

For contact information and to see what’s on offer via ‘Library in your Loungeroom’, visit www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au

Kangaroo Flat Soldiers Memorial project completedA $180,000 Anzac Centenary project to acknowledge and protect local military heritage for the future is now complete in Kangaroo Flat. The project has been funded in partnership by the City of Greater Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat RSL and the Victorian Government’s Victoria Remembers Grant Program.

City of Greater Bendigo Parks and Open Space Manager Paul Gangell said through the project a new concrete memorial wall had been constructed at the Kangaroo Flat Soldiers Memorial to acknowledge all of the personnel from the area that served in World War I.

“The new wall also includes space for future names to be added. In addition, landscaping to complement the new wall and improve access to the memorial on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day has also been undertaken,” Mr Gangell said.

“In times when we are not self-isolating, the crowds gathering on these special days continue to grow in Kangaroo Flat and the new landscaping works will help the site better cope with the large crowds at the memorial when we return to normal times.”

Kangaroo Flat RSL President Craig Chilver said when the Soldiers Memorial was first built many of the existing names on the historic monument were added through a subscription process, which has meant that names of some of the area’s service personnel had not been added to the honour roll.

“There are many reasons why some families did not take out a subscription, maybe they couldn’t afford it at the time

or they moved away before the memorial was constructed,” Mr Chilver said.

“Whatever the reason the addition of the new Anzac Centenary Wall will redress this historical inaccuracy and at the same time, preserve and enhance what is already a significant historic memorial space on Kangaroo Flat’s major streetscape.

“The combination of the new and old has made this memorial space accurate and relevant for the older generations, while introducing a new contemplative memorial space and enhancing the existing green space for younger generations of the Kangaroo Flat community.

“It’s very exciting for the Kangaroo Flat RSL and we are delighted to see it completed.”

“The new landscaping works will help the site better cope with the large crowds at the memorial when we return to normal times.”

ACTIVE AND HEALTHY16

Region’s health revealedThe Healthy Heart of Victoria initiative has released the Loddon Campaspe region findings from the 2019 Active Living Census (ALC), informed by the almost 25,000 responses it received.

The results from the census provide important information about people’s health and wellbeing, including participation in organised sport and informal physical activity, consumption of fruit, vegetables, water, alcohol and sugary drinks, smoking and gambling, overweight and obesity, and life satisfaction. The results also provide information about barriers to healthy eating and active lifestyles, and data on what would help support communities to be more active, more often.

The six Loddon Campaspe Local Government areas involved in the census include Campaspe Shire, Central Goldfields Shire, City of Greater Bendigo, Loddon Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and Mount Alexander Shire. The findings for the region are broken down across each of the six local government areas, as well as by the 10 activities with the highest rate of yearly participation, and into specific population groups.

Healthy Greater Bendigo Executive Officer and Project Manager of the Active Living Census, Amy Brown, said the findings from the census were an important tool that ensured investments, infrastructure, programs and services were delivered where they were needed.

“No other region in Australia has this type of data at this level of detail. The data will support government and community agencies, schools, sporting clubs, community

groups and residents across the region to advocate for the health and wellbeing needs of our communities. The data will also assist organisations and the community to obtain funding to create better health outcomes and help drive ongoing positive change across the region,” Ms Brown said.

Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnership Chair, Dave Richardson, said the Healthy Heart of Victoria was already working to address some of the concerning health statistics within the Loddon Campaspe region.

“We are doing this via projects such as WalKyneton in Macedon Ranges Shire, Activating Crossenvale Park in Campaspe Shire, Let’s Walk Kangaroo Flat and Long Gully in City of Greater Bendigo, Maryborough Community House kitchen garden upgrades in Central Goldfields Shire, outdoor fitness equipment in Wedderburn and Boort in Loddon Shire, and the Forest Street pedestrian crossing in Mount Alexander Shire,” Mr Richardson said.

The Active Living Census is funded by the Healthy Heart of Victoria, a State

Government funded initiative aimed at improving the health of people in

the Loddon Campaspe region – the ‘heart’ of Victoria.

Healthy Heart of Victoria projects are designed to focus on parts of the community that are the

least active and least supported to get more

people, more active, more often.

KEY FINDINGS ACROSS THE LODDON CAMPASPE REGION• Two in every three adults in the Loddon Campaspe region are overweight or

obese (62.5%). This is higher than the Victorian average of 49.7%

• One in 10 households (9.2%) in the Loddon Campaspe region are food insecure – they do not have enough to eat. In some areas, this increases to one in seven households. This is higher than the Victorian average of 6.2%

• 14% of adults are daily consumers of sugary drinks. This is higher than the Victorian average of 11.2%

• One in every two adults (48%) meet the daily fruit consumption guidelines. This is better than the Victorian average of 42.9%

• One in every eight adults meet the daily vegetable consumption guidelines (13.3%) as compared to the Victorian average of 4.9%

• 10.6% of adults are current smokers with higher rates among males than females. This is a reduction in smoking rates for the region

• 57.5% of residents (including children 3+) meet the physical activity guidelines. People in the Loddon Campaspe region want to be more active more often, with 53.4% wanting to do more activity

• Walking is the most popular type of physical activity, followed by swimming, fitness, active play and cycling

• Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre was the most popular recreation facility across the entire Loddon Campaspe region, followed by Lake Weeroona. Gurri Wanyarra was also rated as the best quality facility across the region

“No other region in Australia has this

type of data at this level of detail.”

The results from the census provide important information about people’s health and wellbeing.

City recognised with top honours

Elemental Desires adorns Bendigo Art GalleryBendigo Art Gallery is well-known for showcasing its collection inside and around the building on View Street, but you’ll have to look up to see the latest addition.

A new sculpture, Elemental Desires, by Michaela Gleave has been installed on the top of the 2014 wing of the Gallery, facing out towards the QEO car park to deliver a wonder of hues at night.

At 10m long and 4.5m high, the sculpture features LED lights on a steel scaffold illuminating the words ‘Elemental Desires’. The words are progressively illuminated, flicking initially from deep red through

to golden yellow before the sequence is reversed.

Taking the historical and cultural climate of the 1850s as its starting point, the work considers the layered history of Bendigo. It references the massive impact of the frontier wars and gold rush, the importance of migrant communities and increased travel, the contemporary legacy of mining and ongoing tensions of cultural diversity.

2019 RACV Victorian Tourism Awards

Victorian Award for Excellence

Parks and Leisure Australia national Award

Small Regional Airport of the

Year Award

Green Flag Award

The City of Greater Bendigo has recently received several awards across different areas of the organisation.

Earlier this year the City won gold for its Tudors to Windsors campaign at the 2020 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. The campaign won in the Destination Marketing category. The City and local tourism industry created and promoted more than 50 royal-themed experiences across the region with the aim of keeping visitors in Greater Bendigo for longer. The City also scooped multiple awards at the 2019 RACV Victorian Tourism Awards.

In November, the Bendigo Airport won the Small Regional Airport of the Year at the Australian Airports Association annual industry awards, which recognised the airport’s rapid transformation to support commercial Qantas flights that started operating in March last year.

The airport now features a 76-space sealed car park, an extension and various upgrades to the terminal building, a baggage collection area and café facilities.

The City’s efforts to become an inclusive city were also rewarded when it received a Victorian Award for Excellence from the Governor of Victoria, The Honourable Linda Dessau AC and Mr Anthony Howard AM QC. The City received the award for its leadership in developing and implementing the Greater Bendigo Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Plan (2016-2019) in partnership with local organisations and community groups.

In October, the City’s Eaglehawk Regional Playspace, which is inspired by the famous Banjo Paterson poem Mulga Bill’s Bicycle, was named best playspace valued over $500,000 at the Parks and Leisure Australia national awards. Rosalind Park also retained its prestigious Green Flag award, which it first received in 2018. There are only 10 parks in Australia to receive a Green Flag, which represents an international standard for parks and green space.

LIFESTYLE 17

SECTION HERE 18

How much of your stays local?

When spent in a local chain store

STORE

When spent in a local business

When spent online (not local)

When you spend local, it stays local.

Residents are being encouraged to shop local whenever they can in a campaign to help support local businesses during this difficult time. The City of Greater Bendigo, in partnership with Be.Bendigo, has launched a TV, radio and print media campaign.

Greater Bendigo City Council Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke appears in the TV advertisement and explains that there are many ways to help local businesses while staying at home. The community is asked to explore local websites for businesses and eateries, call businesses if they do not have access to a computer to find out what services they offer, buy vouchers if they can and look for delivery services.

*Based on analysis by REMPLAN using ABS data

www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au

BENDIGO EASTER FAIRBENDIGO EASTER FAIR BENDIGOEASTER FAIR See you in 2021 to celebrate

the 150th Bendigo Easter Fair!