GREENHILLS PRIMARY REDEVELOPMENT BEGINS

Steve Herbert MP, Member for Eltham and Parliamentary Secretary for Education, today visited Greenhills Primary School where construction has this week begun on the $4.533 million redevelopment.

“This is an exciting time for all of the staff and students at Greenhills Primary to see the beginning of construction.  The project was funded in this year’s budget and, because of advance planning, we are seeing work begin extremely quickly,” said Mr Herbert

“Greenhills Primary will be receiving a new 2 storey building, housing 12 new classrooms and modern administration facilities.

“This is the largest school redevelopment the area has ever seen.  By the time it is complete, students at Greenhills will be able to study in state-of-the-art facilities,” Mr Herbert said.

“Greenhills Primary is an already fantastic school about to become even better. 

“The rebuilding of schools has been a priority for the State Government and we’re seeing here the early delivery of an election promise,” said Mr Herbert.

The $4.533 million Greenhills Primary School redevelopment is part of the State Government’sVictorian Schools Plan, which will see $1.9 billion put towards rebuilding every government school.

Tuesday 18 September 2007

NEW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR KINDER TEACHERS

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, has praised the Brumby Government’s announcement of 200 new scholarships to attract more kindergarten teachers as a win for local children.

“Our area has a large number of families with young and school age children.  There are almost 3000 children aged four and under in our electorate and these scholarships will help ensure they have high quality learning experiences at kinder,” Mr Herbert said.

“Attending kindergarten is a very important step for children before they start school so I am pleased that the new scholarships will make kinder even more accessible,” Mr Herbert said.

“In addition, the scholarships represent a terrific opportunity for students working as carers in Long Day Child Care Centres to upgrade their qualifications, “Mr Herbert said.

The first 100 of the new scholarships will cover the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) fees for students who are currently working as carers in Long Day Child Care centres.

The other 100 scholarships will cover the HECS fees of students once they get a full time job as a kindergarten teacher in a Long Day Child Care Centre.

The scholarships are for a two year period and employers of the students who receive these scholarships will be reimbursed for the cost of releasing the staff member during the course.

18 September 2007

‘SPIRIT OF REBELLION’ ALIVE AT VICTORIOUS ST HELENA

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today congratulated the students from St Helena Secondary College for winning the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge open grand final with the theme ‘Ned Kelly’.

“The spirit of rebellion is clearly alive in the students at St Helena.  The ‘Ned Kelly’ story is one that every Australian knows, so it is fantastic that, not only have they won the competition, they have done it with a production based on a uniquely Australian tale,” Mr Herbert said.

“I was very pleased to meet the students on the day of their performance so I know just how excited they were.  They have done their school and our local area very proud.”

“Success at the Rock Eisteddfod once again confirms that the arts in our local areas are alive and thriving, as new generations of talented young people contribute to Victoria’s artistic legacy,” said Mr Herbert.

Mr Herbert, the Parliamentary Secretary for Education, praised the effort that the students and staff put in to the winning production.

“Everybody involved in this performance has put an enormous amount of hard work into the routine and the win is a testament to that,” Mr Herbert said.

In addition to the top placing, St Helena Secondary College also won the Rock   Eisteddfod Challenge Award of Excellence for Stage Use and the Nine Network Award of Excellence for Drama.

The grand final was held at Vodaphone Arena on the 13^th September, 2007.

05 September 2007

GREATER PROTECTION FOR NILLUMBIK GREEN WEDGE

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today welcomed the the Victorian Government’s approval of a $45,000 grant to Nillumbik Shire Council to help it ensure that the area’s Green Wedge is protected from inappropriate land use.

Mr Herbert said the grant was part of a $350,000 boost to assist local councils to prepare Management Plans for Green Wedges in outer Melbourne.

Three years ago, the Victorian Government introduced world-first legislation to protect Melbourne’s Green Wedges – those unique areas surrounding metropolitan Melbourne that hold significant environmental, agricultural, resources and tourism values.

“This is some of the most important land in Victoria and it’s vital that Councils have comprehensive plans in place to safeguard these areas,” Mr Herbert said.

“Nillumbik Shire Council’s Green Wedge Management Plans will identify current uses of each of these areas, the environmental and natural features, the preferred future land use, and the values of the community, and ensure the important things are protected.

“They will provide greater certainty to landholders, developers and the Council about the future of Green Wedges.”

“Nillumbik Shire Council will be able to use this grant to better safeguard the unique features of its Green Wedge, including the environmental and social values, and its diversity of uses,” Mr Herbert said.

“The Council will use the grant to support their Green Wedge management planning process which will include research to rectify gaps in current knowledge and explore issues being raised in the community,” Mr Herbert said.

Tuesday 4 September 2007

 FUNDING BOOST TO DELIVER BETTER SPORTS FACILITIES ACROSS VICTORIA

 Member for Yan Yean, Danielle Green, and Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert, are encouraging local Councils to apply for State funding to upgrade our local sports facilities, with applications to the 2008-2009 Community Facility Funding Program (CFFP) now open.

 “These grants provide funding for local councils to develop new, or upgrade existing, sporting and recreation facilities, and importantly, improve access for the community,” Mr Herbert said.

 “Our local community has some terrific local sporting clubs who are often leaders in state and national competition.

 “It is important that local facilities are maintained and developed to ensure this ongoing success,” Mr Herbert said.

 “Whether it be funding for a new skate park, a new pool, sporting ground change rooms or lighting, councils now have the chance to breathe new life into their important community assets,” Ms Green said

 “This program is about not only increasing participation, but helping ensure sporting facilities remain a central gathering place for years to come.”

 Ms Green said providing better sporting facilities for communities also encouraged people to have active and healthy lifestyles.

 “We want Victorians to be physically active. It’s about providing options for people to be more active and involved in their communities,” Ms Green.

 This round of funding will see the introduction of a new category to the CFFP. The Seasonal Pool Renewal Program will provide grants of up to $200,000 to rural and interface councils to rejuvenate their seasonal swimming pools.

 “In small rural communities, the local swimming pool is often one of the major catalysts for bringing communities together, and it is important we continue to renew these facilities,” Ms Green said.

 The 2008-2009 round of the Community Facilities Funding Program also includes grants for:

• Planning – up to $30,000 for recreation facility planning or feasibility studies;

• Minor Facilities – up to $60,000 to develop and upgrade community sport and recreation facilities;

• Major Facilities – up to $500,000 for the development of major sport and recreation facilities; and

• Aquatic Access/Better Pools – up to $2.5 million to provide quality aquatic leisure facilities.

Since 2000, the Victorian Government has invested $146 million through the CFFP towards more than 1,650 community facility projects.

 Councils can submit applications (including attachments) online at www.grants.dvc.vic.gov.au or by email to grantapplications@dvc.vic.gov.au.

04 September 2007

CALL FOR PUBLIC SUBMISSION ON MELBOURNE 2030

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP today encouraged residents to provide feedback on Melbourne 2030 as part of the first five-yearly audit of Melbourne’s long-term planning strategy.

“This is a great opportunity for local residents to have a say about Melbourne 2030,” Mr Herbert said.

“Community feedback will assist the Victorian Government to fine-tune the way we plan for the future and improve the implementation of Melbourne 2030.

 “I encourage all interested parties including councils, peak bodies, resident groups and individuals to have their say on the future implementation of Melbourne 2030.

“An independent Audit Expert Group will review submissions and is expected to provide its report and recommendations to the Minister in early 2008,” Mr Herbert said.

Submissions can be made until 24 September 2007.

For more information about the Submissions and Audit process, please contact Steve Herbert’s Office on 9439 1500 or visit: www.melbourne2030.vic.gov.au

3 September 2007

2007 SPORT AND RECREATION AWARDS

Victorian sporting clubs, organisations and individuals can share in $50,000 in cash prizes being offered as part of the 2007 Sport and Recreation Awards, Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert said today.

“Our area has a strong heritage of excellent local sporting clubs and individuals”, said Mr Herbert.

“The Sport and Recreation Awards are a great way to celebrate our local achievements and to reward and acknowledge those many dedicated individuals and organisations who contribute in so many ways,” Mr Herbert said.

The Sport and Recreation Awards, now in its eleventh year, are open to all individuals, clubs and organisations that have made a contribution to the sport and recreation sector in Victoria.

The ten awards categories are:

• Minister’s Lifetime Achievement Award;

• Go for your life Community Participation Award;

• Volunteer Involvement Award;

• Club and Organisational Management Award;

• Young People in Sport Award;

• Community Event Award;

• Applied Research In Sport and Recreation Science Award;

• Sport and Recreation Education Award;

• Community Facility Design Award; and

• Amateurs’ Achievement Award.

“I encourage members of our sporting community to consider submitting nominations of individuals, organisations of clubs who are involved in or contribute to sport and recreation in Victoria.”

“Sport and recreation plays a vital role in our communities.  It is important to acknowledge and reward those people that make this happen,” Mr Herbert said.

For information or to request a nomination kit, contact Steve Herbert’s Office on 9439 1500 or the Awards Coordinator, Shannon Stacey, on (03) 9208 3614, email shannon.stacey@dvc.vic.gov.au or visit www.sport.vic.gov.au.

Nominations close on 19 September, 2007.

Monday, 3 September 2007

NEW ERA FOR LOCAL KINDERGARTENS BEGINS

Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP and Member for Yan Yean, Danielle Green MP have welcomed the Brumby Government’s plan to integrate children and education services into one department that will give Victorian children an even better start to life.

“The Brumby Government’s plan for one department to manage all early childhood services and schools is a decisive reform that ensures our children receive the best possible start in life”, said Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP.

Mr Herbert said responsibilities for the new Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development included kindergartens, child care licensing and regulation, maternal and child health, Best Start programs, early childhood intervention services, primary and secondary school nursing and school youth services.

“We are creating a ‘one stop shop’ for the development and education of children from birth to adulthood,” Mr Herbert said.

Member for Yan Yean, Ms Green said the change would:

·        Assist a child’s transition from early childhood to school by tracing a child's development through early childhood;

·        Ensure a child started school when he or she was ready;

·        Children with learning difficulties get the best support; and

·        Strengthen the partnership with Local Government as a key player in early childhood services;

·        Further strengthen integrated early years.

Ms Green said the Brumby Government would work closely with all interested groups to ensure a smooth transition to the new arrangements.

She also said the changes would have no day to day impact on the management of kindergartens.

“Kindergartens in Victoria will continue as a partnership between parents, the community, local and state governments and community service organisations,” said Ms Green.

“There will be no change to the way kindergarten teachers are employed. They will continue to be employed by parent committees, local governments or cluster managers.”

Ms Green said a review of kindergarten cluster management was currently underway and the review will continue and guide us to further strengthen and shape this management model.

Mr Herbert said that over 2000 children attended Kindergartens in Nillumbik and Banyule.

“The Labor Government has boosted kindergarten participation rates to record highs, averaging 95 per cent over the last five years,” Mr Herbert said.

“In July, the Labor Government boosted targeted fee relief for families who need it most, lifting the kindergarten fee subsidy to $730 a year and making kindergarten effectively free for concession card holders.

“About 420 (20.5%) children receive the $730 per year kindergarten fee subsidy, up from $330 in 2006. 

“This important initiative is injecting an additional $168,000 into services in the Nillumbik and Banyule areas and making kindergarten effectively free for these children”, Mr Herbert said.

“The Brumby Government recognises early childhood services are vital to families,” said Ms Green.

“That’s why we have increased funding for Victorian kindergartens by 138 per cent, from $70 million in 1999-2000 to $167 million in 2007-08 and improved career structures for kindergarten teachers and lifted pay rates to achieve pay parity with primary schools teachers at entry level.”

Other recent Labor Government commitments to early childhood services include:

·        $10 million over four years to provide kindergarten programs in child care centres and encourage kindergartens to offer extended hours;

·        $20 million towards the construction of 40 new children’s centres, where a range of early children’s services will be co-located;

·        $15 million to refurbish kindergartens and child care centres;

·        $2 million to establish a centralised childcare register to help working parents more easily locate available child care places in their area;

·        $6.2 million to increase the kindergarten cluster management subsidy to $7000 per location to ease the administrative burden on parent committees and put in place additional strategies to strengthen cluster management into the future; and

·        $4 million to build skills of kindergarten teachers and early childhood staff.

Monday, August 20, 2007


PREMIER VISITS NEW $12M DAY SURGERY CENTRE

Families living in Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs have greater access to high-quality day surgery services thanks to a $12 million redevelopment at the Austin Hospital.

Premier John Brumby today visited the new complex, which includes two new operating rooms bringing the total to 12, two procedure rooms, two endoscopy rooms, a 22-bay recovery area, an isolation suite and improved staff amenities.

“This significant investment in services at the Austin is another example of how the Government is continuing to invest in our hospitals so all Victorians have access to world-class health services wherever they live,” Mr Brumby said.

He said the centre, located in the Austin’s former Emergency Department, boasted 37 patient bays, with 12 available as 23-hour beds.

“The complex will increase the capacity of the Austin by ensuring those patients who undergo afternoon day procedures can stay overnight and, rather than being admitted to a ward, they will be able to stay in 23-hour beds and discharged the following morning.”

The day surgery and endoscopy centre combines the services of the former Day Care Unit, Operating Suite and Sterilising Department at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

“By combining these services in a more central and easily accessible location, it is expected that up to 20,000 patients will be treated in the new complex each year,” Mr Brumby said.

Health Minister Daniel Andrews said the capacity of the Austin would continue to grow.

“The vacated areas at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital will be refurbished and are expected to open in 2008 as the Austin’s new $8 million, 20-bed Elective Surgery Centre,” Mr Andrews said.

He said Austin Health has had its bottom-line budget funding increased by 70.9 per cent since the Government came into office in 1999.

The Austin Hospital will receive bottom-line budget funding of $356.003 million – up by $23.089 million, or 6.9 per cent, on what it was given last year.

Mr Andrews said this year’s funding was $147.679 million more than it was given in 1999/2000.

“The Brumby Government is responding to the growth in demand for hospital services. This includes $49.5 million this year to expand elective surgery at public hospitals, provide an additional 6000 elective patients with their operations and reduce the time to treatment,” he said.

15 August 2007

LOCAL STARS SHINE AT COMMUNITY CHARITY CONCERT

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today congratulated the local performers and thanked the community for embracing the mental health awareness Community Charity Concert on Saturday night.

“The concert was a great night of family entertainment and thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended,” Mr Herbert said.

“The community charity concert was the grand finale of my mental health awareness campaign and it was terrific that so many people attended in support of this worthy cause.

“Captain Spalding had the crowd up singing and dancing and were followed by the local student performers who blew everyone away with their amazing talent.

“The feedback from the community has been terrific, with our local student performers stealing the show.

“To have our local students alongside well known national acts was a great opportunity to showcase our talent local performers.

“Not only was the concert a great night for those attending, but it was particularly special for one of the student performers, Montmorency Secondary College student Ashleigh Rancie, with Cosima De Vito’s Agent interested in talking to her, Mr Herbert said.

Ian Toohill, Media teacher and Community Liaison Officer at Montmorency Secondary College was thrilled with the concert.

“Montmorency Secondary College was very pleased to host this event and to give our talented students the opportunity to perform in front of such a great audience,” said Mr Toohill.

“To have Cosima’s Agent interested in talking to one of our students is fantastic.

“We are all very happy for Ashleigh and hope she realises her dreams of a music career,” Mr Toohill said.

14 August 2007

 DIAMOND VALLEY LEARNING CENTRE - BEST IN THE STATE

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today congratulated Diamond Valley Learning Centre on winning $10,000 in the 2007 Victorian Adult Community Education Awards.

“Diamond Valley Learning Centre was one of five winners across the State who shared in a $44,000 prize pool,” Mr Herbert said.

“It’s terrific that Diamond Valley Learning Centre has won the Outstanding ACE Organisation category of the Awards.

“This Award is testament to the great work undertaken at the Centre, which is recognised as a dynamic organisation and acknowledged leader in the Greensborough community.

“The Diamond Valley Learning Centre plays an important role in our community, offering a broad range of training courses, along with support groups and child care to adult learners.

“With more than 400 adult learning centres across Victoria, it is a great achievement for the Diamond Valley Learning Centre to be recognised as the most outstanding ACE organisation in the State.

“This Award confirms our areas status as including the best education settings in the State.

“I congratulate the Diamond Valley Learning Centre on this well deserved honour and recognition,” Mr Herbert said.

Monday 13 August 2007

FREE FRUIT ON SCHOOL MENU

Students at 3 government schools in the Eltham electorate will be able to enjoy free fresh fruit every Friday from next week thanks to the first phase of an $11 million Brumby Government initiative.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP said the program would encourage local students to adopt healthy eating practices and avoid unhealthy snacks.

“This program is part of our push to encourage healthier lifestyles and avoid damaging health issues like obesity and diabetes,” Mr Herbert said.

“It’s terrific that Eltham North, Research and Sherbourne Primary Schools will be amongst the first schools in the State to introduce the program.

The program will be phased into other government schools over four years on a voluntary basis.

“School canteens have come a long way from the pies and sausage rolls of yesteryear,” Mr Herbert said.

“Free Fruit Friday’s will help bolster local school’s efforts to develop a culture of healthy eating amongst our young,” Mr Herbert said.

In 1985 approximately 10 per cent of Australian children were overweight or obese. By 2005 this figure had risen to approximately 30 per cent.

Schools participating in Free Fruit Friday will be able to access a range of educational materials to teach children the benefits of healthy eating.  Students will also continue to learn about the benefits of physical exercise with mandatory school sport and physical education.

Mr Herbert said schools will be encouraged to purchase fresh produce from local businesses as part of the Free Fruit Friday initiative.

“Not only are we ensuring our young people get the best possible start in life, we are encouraging schools to buy local and support their local communities,” Mr Herbert said.

Other Victorian Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles among students include the development of the ‘Go for your life’ Healthy Canteen Kit and the removal of high sugar content soft drinks from school canteens.

 

For more information on Fresh Fruit Fridays, visit www.education.vic.gov.au

Monday 6 August 2007

 LOCAL MP GETS KEY EDUCATION POSITION

 Local Eltham MP, Steve Herbert has been appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Education by the Victorian Premier, John Brumby, in the new Cabinet line-up.

 Mr Herbert will play a key role in the Government’s agenda with the new Minister for Education, Bronwyn Pike and the creation of the new super-department, bringing the Office for Children into the Department for Education.

 Mr Herbert was delighted by the appointment.

 “The Premier has announced that education will be a high priority area for the Government and I look forward to working hard on education issues,” Mr Herbert said.

 “I am immensely honoured that the Premier has given me the opportunity to play a role in implementing education policies.

 “I am particularly pleased to undertake this role at such an exciting time, with the creation of the new ‘super-department’ combining education and children’s services.

“Prior to my career in politics, I was a teacher in the northern suburbs and I have always had a great interest in education issues.

 “After entering Parliament, I was appointed Chair of the Parliamentary Education and Training Committee between 2002-2006, which conducted substantial investigations into improving education outcomes for young people.

 “I now look forward to working with the Minister for Education, Bronwyn Pike, in further developing and implementing education policy and priorities.

 “Locally, we have a number of excellent schools with many dedicated and hardworking school communities and I look forward to their input as I take on this challenge,” Mr Herbert said.

6 August 2007

GRASSROOTS SPORT DRESSED FOR SUCCESS IN ELTHAM

Sports clubs across Eltham are being urged to be quick in applying for the Brumby Governments’ $1.5 million Our Club, Our Future Sporting Uniform Grants Program.

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP said grants of up to $1000 are now available for grassroots sports clubs needing uniforms and footwear essential for playing and training, with priority given to disadvantaged and junior clubs.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert said the $1.5 million program had been very popular with clubs and encouraged local clubs to act quickly to be part of the action.

“This area has some fantastic local sporting clubs who are often leaders in State and National competition”, said Mr Herbert.

“Uniforms are an important part of local sports culture and they help establish a club’s identity, character and build morale among team mates,” Mr Herbert said.

“There has been a lot of interest in the program from across the State with the first round providing $750,000 in grants to more than 770 clubs across Victoria, including grants totalling over $4000 to five local sports clubs,” Mr Herbert said.

“With applications closing for the second round of funding on 3 September, I encourage local clubs to act quickly,” said Mr Herbert.

Applications are now open online at www.grants.dvc.vic.gov.au.

Applicants can contact Steve Herbert’s Office on 9439 1500 or the Grants Information Line on 1300 366 356 for guidelines and further assistance.

Tuesday, 31 July, 2007

BANYULE AND NILLUMBIK BUS SERVICES REVIEW UNDERWAY

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP today welcomed the review of the local bus services operating in the Banyule and Nillumbik regions.

“This is a great opportunity for local residents to have a say about future bus services in the area,” Mr Herbert said.

“This review will assess the effectiveness of bus services in the area in meeting the needs of the community.

“This review is particularly important as local residents often rely on buses as their main mode of transport and to access local train services.

“Local residents who use these services are best placed to inform the Government about what they want from local bus services.

“I encourage people who want to have a say into the make up of future bus services in the area to register to attend the workshops organised for the region, or make a submission to the Department of Infrastructure.

“It is the information gathered through these workshops and submissions that will be the basis for recommendations that come from this review,” Mr Herbert said.

Minister for Public Transport Minister, Lynne Kosky said the review was part of a program being undertaken by the Victorian Government to improve bus services throughout Melbourne’s suburbs.

“In the Meeting Our Transport Challenges action plan, released last year, we committed $650 million to improving local bus services,” Ms Kosky said.

“That includes the purchase of new buses, the introduction of new services, the upgrade of existing services, and importantly, initiatives such as bus lanes and traffic light priority that will make bus travel more efficient.”

Two community workshops will be held on Monday, 20 August. To register interest or attendance call 9221 1952.

Written submissions can be sent to: Banyule/Nillumbik Bus Service Review, PO Box 2797, Melbourne VIC 3001. Acceptance of submissions closes at 5pm Friday, 31 August 2007.

For more information on the Metropolitan Bus Service Review program or to make submissions by email go to www.doi.vic.gov.au/transport.

Public submissions are now invited for the Banyule/Nillumbik review incorporating the following bus routes:

·        281 Doncaster Shoppingtown - Eltham

·        293 Box Hill - Greensborough via Doncaster Shoppingtown

• 513 Glenroy - Eltham via Lower Plenty and Greensborough

·        517 St Helena - Northland

·        518 Greensborough - St Helena West

·        520 Yan Yean - Greensborough

·        560 Broadmeadows - Greensborough

·        562 Humevale - Greensborough

·        563 Greensborough - Northland

·        566 Lalor - Greensborough - Northland

·        578 Eltham - Warrandyte

·        579 Warrandyte - Eltham via Research-Warrandyte Road

·        580 Diamond Creek - Eltham

·        581 Eltham - Research

·        582 Eltham circular route (anti-clockwise)

31 July 2007

 STEVE HERBERT WELCOMES WATER SAVING IN ELTHAM

 Further water saving in our local suburbs of Eltham, Lower Plenty, Briar Hill and Montmorency has helped avoid Melbourne going onto even tougher water restrictions.

 The State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today welcomed the announcement that Melbourne will remain on Stage 3a restrictions until at least the end of September.

 “In the first three months of this year considerably less water was used than in the same period last year – 29.8% less in Eltham, 28.8% less in Lower Plenty, 25.2% less in Briar Hill and 25.1% less in Montmorency,” Mr Herbert said.

 “This is a terrific result for our local area, with Eltham one of the top 5 suburbs with the greatest reduction in water use.

 “Across Melbourne there was 12 per cent less water used by industry and households.”

 The figures were supplied by retail water authorities and compiled by the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

 Mr Herbert said the savings are on top of earlier falls achieved before water restrictions were introduced last year - a 22 per cent drop in water use by Melbourne industry and households compared with the 1990s.

 "The savings equate to having an extra 100 billion litres of water per year in our dams – that’s the same as two desalination plants the size of the one in Perth.

 “This has allowed the Victorian Government to avoid introducing even tougher water restrictions.

 “We have been able to continue important community sport and to save jobs in water-dependent industries.”

 Mr Herbert said there was no room for complacency.

 “We have to plan to provide water security in the face of climate change and growth in our population and economy.

 “That’s why we’re further encouraging water conservation, increasing recycling and adding new supplies through Tarago Reservoir, a new desalination plant and upgrading irrigation infrastructure, " Mr Herbert said.

Thursday 19 July 2007                                                               

COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

 State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP this week launched his 2007 Mental Health Awareness Campaign.

 “Each year I run a community health campaign to raise awareness of important health issues that affect our community,” Mr Herbert said.

 “This year’s campaign will adopt a positive approach to understanding and dealing with a broad range of mental health issues.

 “With 1 in 5 people expected to experience depression in their lives, it is likely that we will all be touched by mental health issues at some point, be it personally or by knowing or caring for someone who is affected.

 “I think it is important that as a community we openly discuss mental health and increase our awareness of mental health issues.

 “My campaign will involve a community forum for VCE students and parents, the distribution of information to all households, and a community charity concert.

 “The forum will provide positive strategies for dealing with VCE stress, study tips for VCE students and raise awareness of mental health issues, with practical advice to be provided by Michelle Blanchard (Inspire Foundation), Helen Clements (Educational Psychologist) and Brendan Monigatti (Student Welfare Coordinator).

 The VCE community forum will be held on Tuesday 31 July 2007 at 7.00pm in Steve Herbert’s Electorate Office at 718 Main Road, Eltham.  RSVP by 25 July 2007.

 Mr Herbert said the grand finale of the mental health awareness campaign will be a community charity concert featuring Cosima De Vito (Australian Idol contestant 2003), Captain Spalding, hip hop group 2-11 and many talented local performers.

 “It’s terrific that so many performers have embraced this important issue,” Mr Herbert said.

 “With performers of this calibre, the concert will be huge.  To have our talented local performers, alongside such well known national acts, is a great opportunity both for the local performers and the community.

 “The concert has been a real community effort with local performers, schools, entertainment groups, beyondblue and many others getting involved in the campaign.

 Money raised from the Community Charity Concert will go to beyondblue to support awareness of mental health issues.

 The concert will be held on Saturday 11 August at 7pm in the auditorium at Montmorency Secondary College.  Tickets available now $10 per person.

 For further information about the Community Forum or Charity Concert, please call Steve Herbert’s office on 9439 1500.

18 July 2007

 ELTHAM’S FUTURE SCIENCE LEADER

 State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today welcomed the Department of Sustainability & Environment’s new 2007 Cadets, including local university student Michael Basson.

 “The Department of Sustainability & Environment’s Cadet Program recruits the highest potential science students, with excellent VCE or 1^st year university scores, and supports them while they complete their qualification,” Mr Herbert said.

 “The cadets are strategically recruited to ensure that the Department of Sustainability & Environment has future science leaders.

 “It’s terrific that of the 4 new Cadet’s in 2007, one is Eltham resident Michael Basson.

 “Michael has commenced his second year of Natural Resource Management at Melbourne University.

 “As Parliamentary Secretary for Environment I was delighted to welcome Michael and the 3 other 2007 DSE Cadets at a formal Cadet Dinner and Induction on Tuesday Night.

 “I’m always thrilled to see our local talent recognised and achieving outstanding success.

 “Michael has been selected as a future science leader and I congratulate him on this great achievement.

 “Through the Cadet Program, cadets gain a comprehensive understanding of the Department, a vast network of contacts across the Department and a strong commitment to the Department.

Wednesday 18 July 2007

BRACKS GOVERNMENT GIVES LOCAL COMMUNITIES $2 MILLION FOR HERITAGE

Local heritage groups can now apply for more than $2 million worth of Bracks Government heritage grants, to assist in the protection, management and interpretation of Victoria’s heritage, Minister for Planning Justin Madden announced today.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert, encouraged local community groups, historical collections managers and Councils to find out more about the grants program and consider how they could be used to boost local heritage.

“Eltham is well known for it’s great heritage value and it’s commitment to ongoing protection of historically significant places and objects,” Mr Herbert said.

“This project provides another great opportunity for the community to play a key role in protecting and preserving our valuable local heritage for future generations.”

“The Victoria’s Heritage Grants program provides grants for a diverse range of heritage projects, including managing collections, conserving buildings and interpreting historic places with signage or brochures,” Mr Herbert said.

“These grants provide funding for repair works to historical places and objects, as well as interpretation of these places and objects, so they can be better understood by the wider community.

“Heritage study grants are also available to help local councils identify and manage heritage assets in their municipality,” Mr Herbert said.

The 2007-08 grants are part of the Bracks Government’s $20.5 million, four-year heritage strategy, Victoria’s Heritage: Strengthening our communities.

Grant application packs for the 2007-08 Victoria’s Heritage Grants are available from Steve Herbert’s Office on 9439 1500, or from Heritage Victoria; phone 9637 9475, email heritage.grants@dse.vic.gov.au or visit www.heritage.vic.gov.au.

Applications close on Friday, 31 August 2007.

10 July 2007

STATE FUNDS LOCAL COUNCIL’S TO CELEBRATE 25th ANNIVERSARY OF VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL

State Member for Yan Yean, Danielle Green MP and State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP today announced that Nillumbik Shire Council and Banyule City Council will each receive a grant of $2,000 as part of the State Government’s funding for the 25^th Anniversary of the Victorian Seniors Festival.

Ms Green said the local Councils will share in the Bracks Government’s Active Living Grants worth almost $195,000 for the 2007 Victorian Seniors Festival, which runs from Sunday 7 October to Sunday 14 October.

“These grants provide seed funding to help each Victorian Council to stage festival events for seniors in their community,” Ms Green said.

 “Every year the Seniors Festival offers hundreds of free and low cost events that entertain, engage and celebrate seniors across Victoria.”

Mr Herbert said, “The week long Seniors Festival in October recognises the valuable contribution older people have made and continue to make to our community.”

“This annual celebration increases in popularity each year and this funding will assist our local Council’s to make this 25^th anniversary year even bigger and better,” Mr Herbert said.

Mr Herbert and Ms Green also said they encourage members of the local community, particularly voluntary, sporting and service organisations, to nominate a person aged 60 years and over for the Premier’s Senior Victorian of the Year Award and COTA Senior Achievers Awards.

Ms Green said, “The awards recognise extraordinary contributions to the community by a senior and will be presented by the Premier just prior the Victorian Seniors Festival.”

Information about the awards and nomination forms can be obtained from Seniors Information Victoria, phone 1300 13 50 90 or visit www.seniors.vic.gov.au.

The 2007 Victorian Seniors Festival program will be available through Coles and Bi-Lo stores in early September. 

Monday 25 June, 2007

DROUGHT RELIEF FOR RESEARCH PARK SPORTS FACILITIES

Nillumbik Council will receive an additional $40,000 to support drought affected sports facilities at Research Park, thanks to the State Government’s Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, said the $40,000 grant is part of the $4.7 million relief package for drought affected sporting facilities which was recently announced by the Premier, Steve Bracks and the Minister for Sport, Recreation and Youth Affairs, James Merlino.

The $40,000 grant will fund the installation of water tanks to harvest water from the Tennis and Football/Cricket pavilions at Research Park which will supplement water for the tennis courts and the oval.

“This project will assist in keeping the tennis courts and oval at Research Park in top shape at a time when water resources are scarce,” Mr Herbert said.

“These facilities are highly valued by the local community and this funding is great news for the sports clubs and the wider community that make great use of the tennis courts and oval.

“Research Tennis Club has been working tirelessly this year to save their club as the en tout cas courts suffered with the ongoing drought.

“This project, along with works to convert court surfaces to synthetic grass, will ensure the club continues to thrive.

“The Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program is designed to help local councils keep sporting facilities open and implement water saving projects which will provide long term reductions in water use by sporting grounds,” Mr Herbert said.

Research Tennis Club President Mr Rob Wenn said he was thrilled about the announcement.

“This will allow the club to continue to provide the facility which at the commencement of this year, looked completely at risk,” Mr Wenn said.

“These works will compliment works that are currently being undertaken at the club, with 2 new synthetic grass courts which don’t require water, to replace 2 of the current en tout cas courts.

“This will certainly drought proof our club both in the short term and into the future,” Mr Wenn said.

25 June, 2007

$260,000 MAINTENANCE BOOST FOR LOCAL SCHOOLS

The Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP today announced that five schools in the Eltham electorate would receive a share of $260,920 funding to carry out important repairs and upgrade work.

It comes as part of today’s announcement by the Minister for Education, John Lenders, that the Bracks Government has allocated $16 million to help 724 Victorian government schools refurbish toilet blocks and undertake other important repairs. It takes the total amount spent on maintenance in schools by the Bracks Government to $480 million.

“It’s terrific that five local primary schools have received this funding to address important maintenance works,” Mr Herbert said.

Briar Hill Primary School will receive a massive $192,646 for works including improvements to paved areas, drainage, landscaping, roofs and a toilet upgrade.

“I’m thrilled that Briar Hill Primary School will receive this massive boost to maintenance funding,” Mr Herbert said.

“These much needed works will greatly benefit this growing school community.

Other local schools to benefit from the State Government’s maintenance boost are:

·        Research Primary School will receive $59,599 for works including improvements to communications and paved areas.

·        Lower Plenty Primary School will receive $1,670 for works including improvements to drainage and roofs.

·        Montmorency Primary School will receive $4,500 for works including improvements to drainage and roofs.

·        Montmorency South Primary School will receive $2,505 for drainage works.

“These projects make a big difference to the schools in Eltham,” Mr Herbert said.

“The Bracks Government is undertaking a capital works program in schools of unprecedented scope, but ongoing maintenance to ensure the quality of existing facilities is equally important.”

“This funding comes in addition to the Bracks Government’s $1.9 billion commitment to rebuild or modernise 500 government schools over the next four years and every Victorian government school over the next decade,” Mr Herbert said.

Thursday 14 June, 2007

  PRESERVING THE HERITAGE OF HURSTBRIDGE RAIL LINE

 Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP today announced a campaign to preserve the signalling equipment on the Hurstbridge rail line, as the existing signalling system on the line is replaced.

 Mr Herbert called on the Minister for Public Transport to fund a historic display facility, located at Eltham Station, to house the historically significant equipment.

 Mr Herbert said “It would be a tragedy if this historically significant signalling equipment, that has played an integral part in Eltham’s history, was dumped on the scrap heap.”

 “Our area prides itself on our cultural and historical heritage and this significant signalling should be retained in Eltham,” Mr Herbert said.

 Mr Herbert, working with the Eltham District Historical Society, has called for an upgrade to the Eltham Station to include a historic display section which will house memorabilia of the building of the rail line, with the historic signals as a centrepiece.

 “Whilst we all look forward to the installation of modern and computerised signal equipment, retaining a link to our past is important,” Mr Herbert said.

 “The project to upgrade the signalling system on the Hurstbridge line will see old signalling equipment replaced between Hurstbridge and Greensborough,” Mr Herbert said.

 “Commencing this year, the project will see outdated equipment replaced firstly at Diamond Creek, with Eltham to Hurstbridge following and then Eltham to Greensborough.

 “The project is a fantastic development for our community which will see an end to the use of outdated manual and mechanical signalling equipment.

 “However, as we look forward to a more reliable and efficient train service, it is important that we also remember the crucial role that the old technology has played for our community for more than 100 years.

 “These historic signals are an integral part of Eltham’s past and they remind us of the tremendous effort of earlier railway builders to bring modern public transport to Eltham.

 “This is a terrific opportunity to display the equipment, along with historical information and images, so as to preserve the heritage value of the rail line for our community and for future generations.

 “The Eltham District Historical Society supports the proposal to preserve the historic equipment and to utilise it in a display.

  “This information is of great historical significance and if we don’t preserve and promote it in public display, the community may not otherwise be aware of our railway’s significant heritage,” Mr Herbert said.

 A petition calling on the Victorian Government to fund a public display facility at Eltham Station to house the historically significant signalling equipment is available to sign at Steve Herbert’s Office, 718 Main Road Eltham.  Copies of the petition are also available by calling Steve Herbert on 9439 1500 or online at www.steveherbertmp.com.au

14 June, 2007

BOOST FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT WITH LOCAL