80 .. December 2019 Merrijig community Newsletter

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Merrijig Community Newsletter December 2019
INDEX
Quote and FYI 2 Calendar 3
Celebrate issue Number 80 4 New Merrijig Nursery 6
The Wind – By Shane Green 8 Alex’s Dad Jokes & FYI local fuel 9
Hall Activity centre for hiker search 10 Snow for November trail ride 10
Cattleman’s get together 11 Upcoming events Rodeo/Gymkhana 13
Tue Blue Trails is growing 13 Yoga-Pilates classes at the hall 14
Proud of Merrijig Children 14 Opening of new Hall garden 15
Poppies for Remembrance day 16 Merrijig UFO 18
Hall committee AGM 18 Photo comp winners 20
GV Water – Supply notice 21 A Word from the Shire 22
Final Laugh 26
“By the Dam” Photograph by Adele McCormack
Spring time on „Bally Patrick‟ Merrijig
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Quote of the month.
Back issues of the newsletters can be viewed on the web at
http://www.merrijig.com.au/html/local_news.html
Some articles in this newsletter may be picked up by the Mansfield Courier so consider this if you are
submitting stories you could be sensitive about sharing with the community wider than Merrijig.
If you‟re looking for a Justice of the Peace,
Laurie Jacob, Buttercup Rd 0439 280 333
Catherine McNish, Sawmill Settlement0429 482 309
Merrijig Defibrillators are located at Merrijig Motor Inn
& McCormack Park
The procedure in case of an emergency where a person is possibly having a heart
attack is to dial Triple Zero. The call takers at Triple Zero have the location of the
Merrijig AED registered and will advise the caller of its location if that is the closest
unit to your location. McCormack Park unit is located in the machinery shed of the
Motorbike Track. If it is the Merrijig Motor Inn should be contacted by phone.
The Motor Inn phone number is 5777 5702.
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❦❧
◄ November December 2019
1 OPEN MIC
Grand opening of Wild
Mint Acres nursery in
Merrijig
January
►
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
2 3
5 Rubbish & Recycling 6
7
Trivia at the Pub
Against Gender based Violence event
4
Drop in at Library Council
Budget session
8 9
10
11
Drop in at Library Council Bush poets meet Against Gender based
Budget session
at Library 2 till 4
Christmas breakup
Violence event
12 Rubbish
Drop in at Library Council
Budget session
*Increase physical
activity ideas meeting*
13 14
15 OPEN MIC 16
17
Council Budget Trivia at the Pub
discussion at
the Merrijig Hall
18 19 Rubbish &
Recycling
20 21
22 23 24 25 26 Rubbish 27 28
29 OPEN MIC 30 31
Trivia at the Pub
Things to look forward to ……..
Close for local hist. grant appn. Jan 8th Close of
submission for budget on Jan 10 th
January 11- 13 Mountain Cattlemen Get Together
March 7 th Merrijig Rodeo
March 14 th Merrijig family fun Gymkhana
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This is issue number 80
of the Merrijig Community Newsletter
Extracts
From
issue #1
Ben Webster
competed
in the Tri State Games which are a week long sporting
event attracting around 300 athletes from disability
organisations throughout Victoria, New South Wales and
South Australia. The games are held yearly and focus on
promoting active participation, friendly competition and
positive social interaction for adults with a disability. Ben
travelled to Murray Bridge where he participated in
several events and brought home medals in 18m walk
across the pool for which he won Gold. Then he won
silver for the 36m walk across the pool and for the bean
bag throw. His Bronze was for the 25m sprint. He also
was given a large bronze medal for participation.
He said he had a wonderful time which included plenty of
socializing and dining out. An extra bonus was a trip to the
Adelaide zoo on his day off competing; Ben said it’s a
wonderful zoo.
Ben is already looking forward to next year .
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There are now 239 recipients of the Merrijig community E- newsletter, who have it delivered on the
first of each month to their personal inbox. Some others prefer to read the newsletter on the net on
the http://www.merrijig.com.au/html/local_news.html page. There are others who have found the new
magazine style on Facebook fun to peruse.
This has been a wonderful outlet for me as a writer, and it is made easier too when people send in
their own written stories which adds to the variety and style of the newsletter. One of the things that
keeps this newsletter interesting, is the input from its readers, along
with the up to date information of upcoming events and reports on
what has happened in the past month or so.
As one avid reader pointed out (with me having been the author of ‘About
Merrijig’ local history) that this is a way to write the up to date local
history. As it took two years to research – digging through microfilm
and interviewing the oldest Merrijig Residents willing to co-operate,
until a deadline had to be drawn, to write the book „About Merrijig‟.
This way is far less trying, but equally exciting, as stories come in like
the first story below of a new business blossoming in Merrijig.
My eye condition sometimes makes it hard work, putting the newsletter
together, but I can take my time and if one day they don‟t co-operate I
just don‟t touch the computer. I guess the day will come when it gets to
be too much but at the moment I am still thoroughly enjoying bringing
out each new edition, and while I do I will continue to be your newsletter
editor.
5
When Judy Kirkham first
suggested I do this, I
was reluctant, but just
about each month I
privately say thanks to
her for giving me this
outlet to be creative and
keep writing.
Michael Ray,
who is a local war
history enthusiast, gave a very well thought out address beginning with the
significance of the site we were gathered on and the bravery of some of the
local men who risked their lives for the preservation of the men they were with.
He referred to how two of the local men, Fred and Charles Greenway, returned
home with medals acknowledging their outstanding bravery and service, along
with service of the Merrijig women army drivers, which is often overlooked.
I hope you all enjoy your
80 th issue and I wish
you all a happy
Christmas or whatever
festive season you
celebrate around this
time in our multi-cultural
community.
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Nursery business in Merrijig. .. .. Wild Mint Acres has opened
Daniel Reuber and Tara
Purcell who are the owners of
the newest nursery in Merrijig
say, “With massive help from
family we are a little closer to
seeing our vision to fruition.”
Wild Mint Acres nursery
opened on Sept 18 th from 9am
-5pm.
“Our grand opening will be on
December first” (That‟s today
people) BBQ and coffee to
enjoy on site while making
your
purchases.
A wonderful selection of plants growing healthily under
Dan’s loving care.
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While you wander around making your selections you can enjoy the freshly made coffee form the
mobile coffee shop at the nursery.
Wild Mint Acres
to Sunday from 9 to 5
is open each week from Friday through
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THE WIND …… By Shane Green
The sound of the howling wind outside my mountain home makes for an uneasy feeling, and I'm sure I can feel
the building shuddering in protest, as yet again the battle between Mother Nature and Man's structures takes
place.
Whilst Mother Nature has many voices, it's this one, the howling wind, that always seems to transfix me, and
after a short battle I find myself lured helplessly into a reflective state. As her voice gathers strength I feel
myself drifting and remembering some of the distant places I've been.
- Whilst sitting around a campfire on a dark night alone, 800 miles from anywhere on camp watch in the
Northern Territory desert, I'm suddenly surrounded by the howls of the dingo. I guess we are both sharing the
palette of bright stars in the cold desert night sky.
- As I walk in solitude along the tracks of one of the great iron ore railways in the Western Australian Pilbara,
I'm reminded that I'm not alone out here as the silence is broken by the howling whistle of the seemingly
endless train, warning of its approach.
- Lying in my tent on top of Mt Ossa, the hurricane force winds attempt to rip me from the side of the mountain
and deposit me in the bottom of the valley far below. The howling whine of my little tent's guy ropes under the
strain of protecting its occupant makes sleep a fantasy that won't be achieved this night.
- Standing at the closed beach as the tropical cyclone approaches, with sand, salt and ocean spray flung into
my face, I wonder if a day will come when the arrogance of man's structures will end in catastrophic loss to the
forces of nature. How can these enormous concrete sails withstand the endless assaults time after time after
time. Surely one day something must give.
- I have to constantly fight for my footing as the mountain winds race up from the valley far below. The forces
constantly try to send me over the edge. As I climb the snow covered icy ridgeline in the dark depths of the
night I wonder if I'll suffer the same fate as the people I'm searching for. Sadly, on this occasion the icy hand of
the cold and a freezing white dawn beats me to them.
- The down draft of the Dauphine's main rotor screams through my protective helmet as I'm lowered to the
relative safety of terra firma, only to be shortly lifted skyward again. Looking at the guide line I instinctively
know it would be howling in the wash, I just can't hear it. I can't hear anything but the roar of the wind. My flight
suit is battered relentlessly by the rotor wash but the wire withstands the onslaught and we are safely in the
main cabin and it's time for a change in pitch.
Back in the present I manage to leave my reflective state and realise the winds have died down now. Has
Mother Nature decided to sleep? And if so will I be afforded the same luxury?
Most likely not tonight. She's awake again.
Time to go.
☾♒✮ ☄☁☄☼☁☼☄☁☄✮ ♒☽
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【ツ】 【ツ】 【ツ】
Alex’s Dad Jokes
Which Spice Girl can hold the most fuel?
Gerri Can
What did the drummer call his twin daughters?
Anna one, Anna two!
My girlfriend broke up with me, by dropping a piano on my head
I was crushed.
What do you call a knife with no purpose?
Pointless
๏ ๏﴿ ๏ ๏﴿ ๏ ๏﴿
Mirimbah Ski Centre
Mirimbah now has fuel available
24hrs a day, 7 days a week.
Use your credit card at the
paystation and follow the prompts.
Diesel and unleaded are both
available
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Merrijig Hall the centre of activities
Bush Search and Rescue Volunteers used Merrijig
as their base of operations to search for a lost hiker
over a six day period.
A total of 46 volunteers from bush rescue with a
total search team of 70 and a helicopter were used
in the search for missing man Neils Becker.
Neils, a fit and experienced hiker yet the search
was scaled down as it is expected he has
succumbed to hypothermia as he has not been seen since late in October when he was expected to
return to his vehicle.
“Mr Becker, 39, was described as a "strong, fit and resilient" hiker who had prepared for months for
the five-day solo hike in the Alpine National Park.” The police report said, “He left the Upper Jamieson
Hut on October 24 and sent a message to his family that he was heading back to his car on October
29, but he never returned.”
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ѧѦ ѧ ( ( ( Ѧѧ ( ( ѧ Ѧ o ( ѦѦ ѧ
Who would have thought snow would fall in November – then again there
has always been the rule of thumb for Merrijig that you can always
expect a frost until the Mansfield Show.
McCormack Mountain Valley trail rides took an excited group on a
ride to Mt Stirling on Remembrance Day.
“Well Mother Nature threw us a tough gig this weekend but she
certainly delivered a memorable experience.” The spokesperson
expressed, “Thank you to our amazing guests who toughed out
extreme conditions, to experience riding across the snow swept
mountain.” She went on to say “And not one complaint from
anyone. Thanks for sharing this once in a lifetime experience with
us and thanks for putting our ponies first today.”
“Our horses never cease to amaze us in what they are willing to
do and how they just take it in their stride. Thank you to our trusty
steeds for always taking the best of care.”
And now we have photo spam. Riding Mount Stirling in the snow.” She concluded by saying “ I love
my job”
Check out their Facebook page for more photos
https://www.facebook.com/mountainvalleytrailrides.com.au/?__
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εïз ☮ εïз
Mountain Cattlemen’s Get together
It’s happening again in Merrijig
Roughly every five years the Mountain Cattlemen gather in Merrijig where it all began.
The Get Together events will reflect the traditional values and skills of Mountain Cattlemen and
celebrate their rich history and heritage. The whole event is a family friendly affair.
Gates do not open until 9am on Friday
Book on line through Try booking
https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=521802&
.
Tickets will be available throughout the weekend, with a
3 day ticket available for $160 at the gate, which includes all entertainment, use of amenities and 3
days of camping.
2 Day Ticket is $110
1 Day ticket $40. Kids 17 and under are free.
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Image: 1st Cattlemen’s Cup - Sheepyard Flat
(via Merrijig) 1983 – provided by shire of
Mansfield.
Includes as well as horse events,
Bush Poetry,
Historic displays,
Heritage parade,
Live music each night,
Bar (BYO only to your camp site) No glass
Food stalls,
Novelty and kid friendly activities
Merchandise sales
Stall holders varieties
COFFEE
Dog jumping
Four camping areas available so that everyone has the best time possible.
These are:- Horse Camping, Family Camping, General Camping and Staff Camping.
No powered sites or water provided throughout camping areas, but will be available in the Main
Arena. There is little to no shade in the camping areas, so prepare for the weather and bring your
own shade/shelter. Strictly no camp fires allowed.
Dogs: Yes, you can bring your pet as long as it is kept on a leash or confined and is in good health
あ☼⌛♞ஐ
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are already
for next year’s
Lock in the 7th March 2020 !
Our home grown Australian Champion
Bull Rider began riding at Merrijig
Rodeo in the Local Steer Riding event.
Come along and see if you can pick the next Australian Champion.
https://www.ticketebo.com.au/merrijigrodeo
ツღ
Merrijig Family Fun Gymkhana
This fun event is also on in March on the 14 th also at McCormack Park
Lots of fun for the whole family, Kids and ponies, Mums on horseback, Dads and
dress ups. What could be more fun? BBq and drinks for sale on site.
Tru Blu Trails
Working all winter on creating ways to make the
business run more smoothly than ever Cory and Meg
have successfully carted 18 horses in one trip to Mt
Stirling in their custom truck and trailer on its first run.
The couple have also invested in a 4WD Isuzu which
is getting fully kitted out.
“This will take support to a whole new level for the trail ride industry.” Cory said.
True Blu Trails offer discounts for locals who bring along friends for trial rides –
this is a great idea if you have visitors over the summer holidays. What better
way to show them the magnificent high country.
Located at 163 Davies Rd, Merrijig 3723 - Ph: 0409 019 412
E: corey@trublutrails.com.au
W: trublutrails.com.au
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εïз ☮ εïз
Yoga-pilates group classes
Mondays 5:45-6:45pm
Merrijig Hall
(Photo taken from the internet) ..
$15 per class.
Bring a mat if you have one.
Classes are a blend of Pilates strength and stabilisation exercises with traditional yoga postures and
mindfulness. A great blend of strength, mobility and balance that will leave you feeling grounded,
centred and more connected to your body.
Ladies and gents welcome.
Beginners through to more advanced students.
For more information call Uschi Steedman on 0484 540 362 or visit www.uschisteedman.com
☻ ☺웃 유
Proud of Merrijig School
Children
Most of the time school
kids are criticised for being
noisy, being rude, being
pushy or grubby or
inconsiderate.
Yet our local little school
children were praised in a
letter to the editor after
they had an excursion to
Melbourne to see Charlie
and the Chocolate Factory.
Great work kids, parents
and teachers, you are a
fine example for others
and the future looks good with respectful youngsters growing up in our community.
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のあ 。◕‿ ◕。 あの
The official opening of the new garden at the Merrijig Public Hall.
Open Garden
The beautiful new garden at Merrijig Public Hall was officially opened recently giving an opportunity for the
Mansfield Garden Club members to see the results of the financial contribution they made to the rejuvenation.
A plaque commemorating the opening was unveiled by Hall Committee president, Des Dunn, Garden Club
Committee president, Val Davis and Garden Club secretary, Christine Souter.
A gathering of about 25 people enjoyed seeing the transformation the garden has gone through due to the
planning, co-ordination and hard work of Merrijig’s Kerrie and Geoff Burrowes, Colin Nash and Bruce Barber.
The Burrowes' beautiful property had been open to the public, organised by the Mansfield Garden Club, with
the proceeds from the gate takings spent on the re-development of the garden.
Hall president, Des Dunn, said the garden was a fine example of what can happen when a community works
together. On behalf of the Hall Committee he expressed his gratitude to all involved in the work.
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Three members of the
garden preparation
team who worked
tirelessly in all weathers
to transform the
garden. From left Colin
Nash, Bruce Barber and
Kerri Burrowes, whose
open garden at her
property, organised by
Mansfield Garden Club,
financed the
development of the
garden.
Members of the Mansfield Garden Club
pictured during morning tea at the
opening, from left standing Ros Davies,
club secretary, Christine Souter, Sandi
James and seated from left Bill Davies,
Pat Davies and president of the club Val
Davis.
Poppies appeared in the new Hall
garden
Just in time for Remembrance Day.
A small group of local people gathered at the Merrijig War
and Service Memorial at the top of Buttercup Rd on
November 11 to commemorate the end of World War
One.
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With involvement from students from Merrijig Primary School and the Timbertop Campus of Geelong
Grammar School, the brief service was led by Merrijig Hall president, Des Dunn.
Many wreaths were laid including by Mayor Cr Marg. Attley, our ward councillor. Merrijig Primary
School Captain, Cobie McCormack laid a wreath from local State Member of Parliament for Eildon,
Cindy McLeish.
Many community members also laid individual wreaths.
The Ode was read jointly by Cobie McCormack and her brother Jaxon.
Local resident, Louise Jacob, read a a very moving poem written recently by a 14 year old student
named Joshua Dyer, from Herefordshire in England. He was asked to write the poem for his school
and did it in just under an hour.
It‟s beautifully written and we re-print it here for those who weren‟t able to be at the service.
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One Thousand Men Are Walking
One thousand men are walking
Walking side by side
Singing songs from home
The spirit as their guide
they walk toward the light milord
they walk towards the sun
they smoke and laugh and smile
together
no foes to outrun
these men live on forever
in the hearts of those they saved
a nation truly grateful
for the path of peace they paved
they march as friends and comrades
but they do not march for war
step closer to salvation
a tranquil steady corps
the meadows lit with golden beams
a beacon for the brave
the emerald grass untrampled
a reward for what they gave
they dream of those they left behind
and know they dream of them
forever in those poppy fields
there walks one thousand men
Joshua Dyer 2019 (aged 14)
Cobie and Jaxon McCormack reading the Ode
Lest we forget
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All of the students at school on
November 11, attended the
commemorative service at the top of
Buttercup Road. Cobie and Jaxon
McCormack recited „The Ode‟, with
Cobie laying the wreath on behalf of
local member, Cindy McLeish. Lincoln
Catlin and Chloe Tremmel laid the
wreath on behalf of the school.
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d(^o^)b
Merrijig UFO
The Merrijig Unfinished Objects Group took the bus to Melbourne last Thursday for their Christmas
lunch celebration. The group meets weekly at the Merrijig Hall and usually heads to Melbourne for the
end of year excursion. This time the chosen restaurant was the Garden Restaurant at the National
Gallery of Victoria. Whilst temperatures soared to 40 degrees outside, the restaurant was like an
oasis. The food was sensational and service outstanding.
Anyone interested in joining in the group when they meet in Merrijig are most welcome. You bring
along any project you like - you might have been struggling to make the time to work on it for years so
just dust it off and bring it along. Some do stitching, knitting, sewing, quilt making, crochet or just sit
and chat. We‟re not very serious! There‟s a lot of laughter. Each Thursday at 11 am the group meets,
so bring along a plate to share for lunch. The afternoon usually winds up about 3 pm. Cost is $5.
If you‟d like to chat about
coming along or need any
questions answered call Kerrie
Purcell on 0437 380 384 or
Louise Jacob on 0419 346
249. Everyone is welcome.
Those able to come to the
luncheon in Melbourne are
pictured from left moving
clockwise:
Gerrans and Louise Jacob.
Janis Jago, Julie Neal, Kerrie
Purcell, Claire Hirst, Rhonda
Johnstone, Lynne Taylor, Kaye
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¯\_(ツ)_/¯
AGM report Merrijig Public Hall
A farewell to the Hall Committee‟s long serving treasurer, Sen Weir, was one of the features of the
annual meeting of the committee recently.
Committee president, Des Dunn, said Sen had been connected with the hall for at least 40 years,
making a huge contribution to the community. A lot of this time she was treasurer.
The committee has also lost another valued member in the social convener, Peter Deyell. Mr Dunn
described both as „soldiers‟ recognizing their contributions to the committee. Peter formalized the
social events leading to the organization of them flowing smoothly.
In his president‟s report to the annual meeting, Mr. Dunn thanked his „hard-working‟ committee for
helping to run the hall.
“It takes time away from family and effort to do what we have achieved this year. The achievements
lead to a stronger and more connected community, one that we and our family members can be justly
proud.”
“Major activities and achievements for 2019 include the completion of the new building providing
shelter at the Merrijig War and Service Memorial, the Movie and Trivia nights, the Fire Ready Supper
Dance in conjunction with CFA. This year‟s dance was a huge success up by about 50% on last year.
Other achievements included our participation in the Merrijig Rodeo, landscaping at the hall gardens
undertaken by Kerri and Geoff Burrowes, Colin Nash and Bruce Barber. Thanks go to the Mansfield
Garden Club for supplying the impetus and funding.”
On projects and grants, our grants co-coordinator, George Deyell, continues to source and act on
grant applications. Our acting treasurer, Noel Willaton, who took on the role when needed, has
crunched the numbers and these are available.
“In conclusion, let me express my appreciation and admiration to all of you for your work this year.”
Local resident, John McCombe, took the chair for the election of office bearers and committee.
President Des Dunn,
Vice President Noel Willaton,
Secretary Louise Jacob,
Treasurer Mary Dunn.
Grants co-ordinator Georgie Deyell
Merrijig War and Service Committee Peter Howarth
Booking officer, Kerrie Purcell
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General Committee
Pictured after the AGM at Sen’s
farewell from left,
Louise Jacob, Mary Dunn, Des Dunn,
Kerrie Purcell, Sen Weir standing in
front of her husband, Geoff Davies,
Noel Willaton, Peter Deyell and
Laurie Jacob.
ʕ *ʔ
The Gibbs kids win in the Mansfield show Photographic comp.
Haidyn age 13 and Ceinna aged 11, did very well with their new hobby – Photography.
Changue Rd – regular holiday residents are familiar with what goes on in and around Merrijig having
been Motorbike club members for several years. Now good at motorbike riding they have moved on
to Kayaking and more recently photography. They were so excited that they have already begun to
take fresh photos for next year‟s Mansfield Show.
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Your town water supply during a fire 15 November 2019
With the Country Fire Authority's official Fire Danger Period now in effect,
Goulburn Valley Water is reminding residents that the town water supply can’t
be relied on during a major fire event.
Residents are being urged to ensure they have an alternate water supply if they plan to defend their
property as part of their fire action plan, particularly if they live in a bushfire prone area in an urban fringe
area near grasslands or scrublands.
GVW’s Operations Manager Steven Nash said during a bushfire, the demand on the water supply network
can exceed the system’s capacity.
“If there is a fire, we can’t guarantee we will be able to maintain normal pressure or normal supply, and if
there is extreme demand on the network, your supply may be reduced temporarily,” Mr Nash said.
“On days of very high and above fire danger, we recommend people keep a supply of drinking water ready
– for example, fill several large containers for drinking, or fill your bathtub.”
If electricity is lost, GVW may also not be able to operate systems which require pumps until a backup
generator is in place if available.
Fire may also affect GVW’s ability to respond or react to any system issue. Where possible, GVW will work
to notify customers whenever their water supply is affected.
Mr Nash said GVW continually works to prepare for the fire season by ensuring its people and water supply
infrastructure have the necessary back up systems in place to minimise supply interruptions under normal
conditions.
GVW uses SMS to notify customers of any service interruptions, faults or issues – to register your mobile
phone number, please phone us on 1800 454 500 at any time.
For further information and advice on planning and preparing for a bushfire, visit the CFA’s website at
www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call 1800 240 667.
GVW also has more information on town water supplies during a fire at www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/serviceinterruptions/natural-disasters
Media contact: Jenna Bishop
Phone: (03) 5832 4860
Email: jennab@gvwater.vic.gov.au
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✌⊂(✰‿✰)つ✌
Cr Marg Attley:-Your local representative on
Mansfield Shire Council. Available to be contacted on:
5776 2231 or marg.attley@mansfield.vic.gov.au
A WORD FROM THE SHIRE
http://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/home.aspx
EIGHT WEEKS TO SUBMIT IDEAS FOR COUNCIL’S NEXT BUDGET
Mansfield Shire Council‟s Have Your Say web portal will open on Tuesday to accept
suggestions from the community about how next year‟s Budget should be spent. Mayor Cr Marg
Attley said residents and ratepayers have until 10 January 2020 to submit their ideas either through
the web portal, in writing, via email or at Drop In sessions at the Library planned for December. Dates
and times for Drop In sessions will be:
Wednesday, 4 December, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Friday, 6 December, 9.00am – 11.00am
Monday, 9 December, 5.00pm – 7.00pm Thursday 12 December, 12.00noon – 2.00pm
There will be special sessions for smaller towns and Merrijig is on Monday 16th of December from
3.30 until 5.30 in the hall.
I encourage residents to join us for this opportunity to have their say about the next budget.
“We‟re really excited to extend the consultation period for the Budget. This is the first of two
opportunities to be involved. If you have an idea and it aligns with the Council Plan and has
community benefit, we encourage you to put it forward,” Cr Attley said.
“We heard from the community that we need to listen to them more and after receiving 230
submissions on our Draft Budget this year, we decided to start the process early for next year.
“We got some wonderful input through our stand at the Bushmarket; everything from new footpaths to
a year-round heated aquatic centre”.
Cr Attley said Council considers all requests for inclusion in its annual Budget by reviewing
the proposals: - Purpose, including community benefit, general efficiency, legislative requirements,
cost savings and/or revenue generation.
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Strategic fit; which of the Council Plan‟s strategic objectives or goals does the project
address?
The cost over the life of the project.
Operational impact. How will this impact council‟s current capacity to staff / supply / manage the
project or service?
“We have requirements to spend our funds on what you might call „business as usual‟ to deliver our
core services, required asset expenditure and then discretionary items. This third component is where
community projects might be included,” she said.
After submissions close on 10 January 2020, Council staff will consider all the suggestions and
incorporate those that meet the criteria and can be funded into the draft Budget for discussion by
Council on 14 April 2020. When the Draft 2020 - 2021 Budget is adopted, the community will then
have a second opportunity to comment in April and May.
M
For more information about how to put your idea forward, please contact Council
on 5775 8555 or go to the Have Your Say page on Council‟s website
https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/consultations
For even more information contact: Cr Marg Attley – 0400 256035
▂▃▅▇█▓▒░
░▒▓█▇▅▃▂
Mansfield Shire Council
12 November at 10:34 ·
Local History Grants Program Now Open
The Local History Grants Program encourages and fosters community activities that preserve, record
and share the local, social and community history of Victoria and Victorians.
The 2019-2020 round is now open, closing midnight 8 January 2020.
Previously funded projects have ranged from digitisation projects, recording of oral histories,
community displays, and preservation of local collections.
More information can be found at: https://prov.vic.gov.au/…/gran…/local-history-grants-program
இ - —
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'16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
Campaign'
This year marks the fifth anniversary of Mansfield Shire's leadership in supporting
the '16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence Campaign' in partnership with Mansfield District
Hospital. The campaign runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against
Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).
Attached is the Programme of Activities and Events, in addition to individual event fliers that reinforce this
year's key message of Active Bystander Action and 'Calling it Out'.
A summary of this year's main events that require registration to participate in are:
06/12 @ 7:30 - 9:00am: Breakfast and Community
Conversations with Phil Cleary - Join Phil (ex-footballer, politician,
sports and political commentator and White Ribbon advocate) and
a panel of local and regional speakers to learn about and discuss
efforts to prevent family violence. Hosted at Mansfield Football
Netball Clubrooms. Tickets cost $15 and include breakfast.
Bookings are essential and can be made online via
trybooking.com/BGMJW Get in quick, registrations close 4/12;
and
· 11/12 @ 5:30pm: Café Conversation with Professor
Brenda Happell - Join Brenda in discussing the local impacts of
the '16 Days of
Activism' Campaign
on our community
and what the roles of
individuals, the
community and
organisations are in
taking action towards
the prevention of
violence in Mansfield
Shire. Hosted at The
Produce Store, Free
event, Supper provided, Bookings essential (register your interest
directly with me).
Please consider getting actively involved in the various elements
of the campaign and registering to attend some (or all!) of the
events. As you'll see from the programme, there has been a
significant increase in grass-roots level community support and
involvement behind this year's campaign.
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A question that is commonly asked at this time is, "Why is this campaign a 'gendered' campaign?" It is
acknowledged that violence perpetrated against men is also an issue within our society and that not all men
are perpetrators. However, family violence is more often perpetrated by men against women. The statistics
indicate that 1 in 4 women experience domestic violence compared to 1 in 13 men, and men are more
commonly the perpetrators of violence in both situations.
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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic
violence, and would like information on accessing
assistance, please contact either myself or:
Kind Regards,
https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/
Kirsten Lingard, Community
Development Team Leader,
Phone: 03 5775 8534 - Fax: 03
5775 2677
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Bye for now Adele
Adele McCormack
67 MacPherson-Smith Dve
Mansfield 3722
☏ 0409 600 655
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