Recent news items

23 October, 2008

IMPROVED BUS SERVICES FOR NILLUMBIK RESIDENTS

Nillumbik residents will be the first to benefit from significant upgrades to local bus routes following a recent review of bus services in the Nillumbik and Banyule area.

At Eltham today, Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky said three bus routes in the Eltham, Research, Kangaroo Ground and North Warrandyte area will be upgraded, to begin on November 9.

“Nillumbik and Banyule were among the first council areas in Melbourne to undergo a review of local bus services and I am extremely pleased with the level of constructive feedback we’ve received through our public workshops and submissions,” Ms Kosky said.

“We are implementing a number of changes to bus routes in the Eltham, Research, Kangaroo Ground and North Warrandyte area which currently have limited service levels, to improve public transport options for local residents.

Ms Kosky said that, as part of the review, several bus improvements would start on Sunday 9 November, including:

·         Bus Route 582 (Eltham – Eltham via Woodridge Estate), improved service frequency with buses departing every 20 minutes, seven days a week.  All bus services on Route 582 will now run in an anti-clockwise direction.

·         Bus Route 578 and 579 (Eltham – Warrandyte) – improved service frequency and extended hours of operation to 9pm, seven days a week, benefiting travellers in the Eltham, Research, Kangaroo Ground and North Warrandyte areas. Revised Routes 578 and 579 will now incorporate all services that operate on former Route 581.

These upgrades follow earlier improvements already introduced to 5 other bus routes in the area - Bus Routes 513, 517, 563, 566 & 580 all now have operating hours extended to 9.00 pm seven days a week.

Steve Herbert, Member for Eltham, said bus Route 582 will now have more frequent services, with buses departing every 20 minutes, instead of the current 30 minute frequency, and will now have Public Holiday services for the first time.

"Residents will be particularly pleased that the new services will provide better connectivity with train services,” Mr Herbert said.

Danielle Green, Member for Yan Yean, said, "Thanks go to the many locals who had taken the time to attend the bus review workshops.”

"I want to congratulate commuters for the service ideas that they had suggested,” Ms Green said.

"Young people in Warrandyte and Kangaroo Ground will now have many more choices open to them for part time work and socialising," Ms Green said.

Steve Herbert, Member for Eltham, said bus Route 582 will now be 100 extra weekday services, 12 extra Saturday services and 12 extra Sunday services, making it easier than ever for Eltham residents to catch the bus,” Mr Herbert said.

“The extra services will be welcome news to local residents and commuters, many of whom rely on buses to travel to the shops or visit family and friends, or connect them to Eltham Railway Station,” Mr Herbert said.

Danielle Green, Member for Yan Yean, said the improvements will mean bus routes 578 and 579 will now run until 9pm seven days a week, including an all new Sunday and Public Holiday service.

“These two bus routes are a vital part of the transport network as they provide strong cross town links for residents in Research, Kangaroo Ground and North Warrandyte with local schools, shopping facilities and Eltham Railway Station,” Ms Green said.

“This is a significant boost in bus services for local residents with 30 extra weekday services, 19 extra Saturday services, and 50 new services on Sunday,” Ms Green said.

Ms Kosky said the Banyule/Nillumbik Bus Service Review was part of a program being undertaken by the Brumby Government to improve bus services throughout suburban Melbourne.

“As part of the 10-year, $10.5 billion Meeting Our Transport Challenges action plan, we committed $650 million to improving local bus services across Melbourne,” she said.

Several local bus reviews are currently underway throughout Melbourne, with 16 reviews to be completed between 2007 and 2010.

The review of route bus services in southern Banyule is expected to commence in 2009.

For more information on the Metropolitan Bus Service Review program, visit www.transport.vic.gov.au/buses

23^rd October 2008

GRANTS TO LINK LOCAL BIKE TRAILS

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP and Member for Yan Yean, Danielle Green MP, today welcomed a funding announcement for major local bike path projects.

$166,000 has been granted to Banyule City Council for the realignment of the Plenty River Trail from Partingtons Flat to Greensborough Hwy and Parks Victoria have received a $40,000 grant for planning of stage 2 of the Plenty River Trial from Greensborough Hwy to Yan Yean Reservoir.

“Bike paths are an important piece of the transport jigsaw in Melbourne. 

“Not only do they provide recreation trails for people who cycle for fun, but many people have swapped their car for a push bike to try and beat the rising cost of running a vehicle.

“These grants will help maintain and expand Melbourne’s terrific bike paths and help create cycle links between suburbs and the city.

“Riding a bike not only keeps you fit, but often provides a far more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to the car,” Mr Herbert said.

This latest round of funding, totalling $2 million, covers 16 projects including 11 under the Parks Victoria metropolitan trail network grants program in 2008-09 as well as five projects under the ‘Trails for a Liveable City’ and ‘Urban Parks and Trails’ initiatives.

“As people look to save money and get fit bikes will become more and more popular so it’s vital that the State Government continues investing in bike path infrastructure

“Melbourne’s extensive bike path network is a major contributor to Melbourne being one of the world’s most liveable cities.

“This latest round of funding will help lay the foundations for improvements and expansion of local bike paths, making life easier for local cyclists,” Ms Green said.

7^th October 2008

BOOTS FOR ALL – KICKING GOALS FOR THOSE LESS FORTUNATE

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, this week put out a call asking for local residents to kick a goal by donating their footy boots to those less fortunate,

“Many youngsters, particular those living in poorer, rural and indigenous communities living up north love playing footy but a lack of money often mean they must play with proper boots.

“Local residents can help these youngsters by donating their old footy boots to ‘Boots For All’ - a fantastic organisation collecting quality, second-hand football boots for redistribution to clubs and players who might have a bit of trouble sourcing equipment on their own.

"With footy season having come to an end for another year, many boots will find their way into a bin, or to the back of a cupboard never to be dragged out again.

“With the inevitable growth spurts, many youngsters will need a new pair of boots next season, so don’t let the old ones rot away in the garage.

“If you think you’ll be upgrading your boots before next season, but your current boots have a bit of life left in them, consider donating them to ‘Boots For All’ who will make sure they find their way to a player struggling to put boots on their feet,” said Mr Herbert.

The Founder of ‘Boots For All’, Ms Joanne Rockwell, started the organisation because “many children and adults miss out on playing footy as they can’t access boots.

“’Boots For All’ can help make sure this doesn’t happen by passing on quality, second-hand football boots to disadvantaged teams across Australia” she said.

“Residents can leave their old boots at a Brotherhood of St Laurence store or the Bombers shop at Windy Hill and ‘Boots For All’ will pass them on to someone who cannot afford to purchase new boots,” Mr Herbert said.

For more information contact Steve Herbert MP on 9439 1500 or visit the ‘Boots For All’ website at www.bootsforall.org.au

Visit www.bsl.org.au to find your nearest Brotherhood of St Laurence store.

23rd September 2008

PRE- PAID TAXI CHANGES – Know your rights!

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, is leading a local campaign aimed at better informing taxi users of their rights.  This campaign coincides with a push by the State Government to improve taxi services right across Victoria.

“For many local residents getting a taxi is the only viable way to get home after a late night out.

“To ensure people receive a high quality taxi service I have launched a campaign focused on greater awareness of legal rights in regards to taxi travel.

“Mandatory pre-paid fares will be introduced as of the 1^st of October and it’s important that people who use taxis to get home late at night are aware of their rights and responsibilities,” Mr Herbert said.

“While the vast majority of taxi drivers will do the right thing, there will always be some dodgy drivers who try to unethically exploit the pre-paid system.

“If at anytime a person experiences poor service they should record the taxi number, and if possible the driver ID and report it to the Victorian Taxi Directorate along with the time and date of your encounter. 

“It’s only through the actions of passengers that the Victorian Taxi Directorate can ensure quality taxi services are provided across Victoria.

“Other State Government measures are targeting unclean and unsafe taxis through ‘Operation Safe & Clean’.  The Victorian Taxi Directorate has dramatically increased taxi inspections and is conducting ongoing operations, depot audits and awareness campaigns,” Mr Herbert said.

As part of the Eltham taxi rights campaign all local residents aged 18 to 27 will receive an information brochure detailing their rights.

“The brochure contains a guide to estimating taxi fares as well as a tear out card detailing the Victorian Taxi Directorate’s complaint phone line.  A taxi driver cannot refuse a fare based on distance or direction,” Mr Herbert said.

Passengers are within their legal rights to expect from their taxi service:

• A working taximeter
• A working EFTPOS terminal
• Clean, presentable taxi
• Driver ID displayed on dashboard
• Taxi driver in uniform
• Most direct route practicable

With pre-paid fares, the driver must provide the passenger with a receipt for any pre-payment of the estimate as well as a final receipt for the full metered fare plus any other charges for the journey (i.e. tolls). The final fare will be displayed on the meter at the end of your trip. Drivers must:

• Refund the difference to the passenger if the final taximeter reading is less than the prepaid amount

• Request additional payment if the final taximeter reading is more than the prepaid amount.

“A taxi driver can refuse a fare if a passenger is unable to pay or there are more passengers than permitted to carry.

“A taxi driver can also legally refuse a fair if passengers are smoking, drinking alcohol, abusive, dirty or noisy,” Mr Herbert

22^nd September 2008

ELTHAM TOWN SURVEY GETS A HUGE RESPONSE

A survey on the future of the Eltham Town shopping precinct and Town Square has received a tremendous response from local residents, State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, is pleased to report.

“Earlier this month I sent out a survey to around 10,500 households asking what changes, if any, they would like to see to the Eltham shopping precinct and town Square.

“This was in response to the Nillumbik Shire Council forming a working group to look at options for the development of the shopping area.

“It is vital that local residents are given an opportunity to say what they want and need in a shopping centre.

“The response to the survey has been outstanding and clearly demonstrates how much work is going to be required to make shopping at Eltham a more enjoyable experience.

“An analysis of the responses highlights a huge ranges of issues and a large number of views on how best to improve the Eltham shops.

“However some obvious themes include traffic flows in and around the shops requiring urgent attention as well as many people wanting to see the Town Square developed into a more inviting and enjoyable area.

“The survey responses have been collated into a report and submitted to the working group on behalf of local residents.

The report will soon be available for download from Steve Herbert’s website – www.steveherbertmp.com.au

“I want to express my gratitude to the local residents who have taken this opportunity to put forward their views on the Eltham shops and Town Square.

“It’s only through input from a wide range of sources, including traders associations, commerce groups, local government and importantly local residents, that we will end up with a suitable outcome from any development in and around the electorate.

“Hopefully this report will be used by the working group to come up with a plan for the Eltham shopping precinct that will meet the needs of local residents for many years to come,” Mr Herbert said.

2^nd September 2008

BLUEPRINT BUILDS ON VICTORIAN EDUCATION REVOLUTION

The latest step in Victoria’s education reform agenda, the Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development, sets Victoria on the path to even greater improvements in educational outcomes for students, Member for Eltham and Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Steve Herbert MP, said today.

“Today the Government has released the blueprint that will underpin improvements in Victoria’s education system for the next five years.

“The State Government has set some very ambitious goals for education reform in Victoria and has been working tirelessly over the past 8 years to achieve them.

“Local schools have been working hard to implement the Government’s reform agenda and this has paid dividends as local students continue to achieve some of the best educational outcomes in Victoria.

“The Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development sets out concrete actions to improve the well-being and educational outcomes for all Victorian children over the next five years and reinforces the State Government commitment to education and childhood development,” Mr Herbert said.

The blueprints’ main reforms include:

·         Stronger interventions and more intensive monitoring in under-performing schools;

·         Providing incentives for the best teachers and school leaders to work in schools where they are needed most;

·         A scheme to encourage high-performing graduates from other fields to enter teaching;

·         Improving transitions to school;

·         Integrating early childhood services with childcare, in partnership with the Federal Government;

·         Developing a new 0–8 learning and development framework that will be linked to existing learning standards in schools;

·         Improving participation in early childhood services to improve early identification of health and development problems; and

·         Supporting families to provide a home environment that supports development.

“These reforms will help build on the strengths of local schools and help equip students, teachers and schools for future advances in education.

“The next few years will be an exciting time locally, consolidating our reputation as a leader in educational excellence while looking towards the future and ensuring we remain at the fore of education,” Mr Herbert said.

26^th August 2008

$100,000 FOR UPGRADE AT ELTHAM LITTLE THEATRE

Big things are set to happen at Eltham Little Theatre thanks to a $100,000 State Government grant.

The funding through the Government’s Arts in the Suburbs program will increase community access to arts opportunities and improve the facilities and amenities at the popular local community theatre.

“The Eltham Little Theatre has resided in Research for over 20 years and been the site of a myriad of terrific productions by local theatre groups, schools and community groups.

“Demand for performance space like the Eltham Little Theatre has grown substantially over the past few years necessitating an upgrade of the theatre.

“Local facilities like this often give people their first taste of the arts, and provide an important creative and cultural meeting place.

“Eltham is well known for its local art activities so it vital that as a community we provide the necessary resources to continue nurturing this wonderful reputation.

“$100,000 for the Eltham little Theatre will do just that, ensuring it is up to the task of meeting demand for performance space and hosting terrific local productions well into the future.

This funding will help upgrade the building’s foyer and seating in the auditorium, as well as create new storage facilities, a rehearsal space and an office for the theatre group. It will free up space in the building, providing greater opportunities for local community use.

The works will be undertaken by the Nillumbik Shire Council which is also contributing funds to the project.

20^th August 2008

NILLUMBIK COMES OUT ON TOP YET AGAIN

BankWest’s “Quality of Life Index”, which has ranked Nillumbik the best place to live in Victoria and third best in the country, will come as no surprise to many residents says State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP.

“The secret is out; Nillumbik is the number one place in Victoria to live and a close third in the country according to a recent survey conducted by BankWest.

“This would come as no surprise to the local community who work so hard to make our area such a terrific place to live and raise a family.

“This survey confirms ABS data that shows local residents enjoy quality education, high median incomes, good health and longevity as well as a recent report showing very low crime rates locally.

“Our area has a large number of two income families and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country,” Mr Herbert said.

The 10 indicators used to rate shires and councils were income, health and home-ownership status as well as rate of employment, crime, high school participation, dwelling vacancies, detached housing stock, broadband connection and volunteering rates.

“It’s great to see Banyule right up there in the survey too.

“Out of 590 Local Governmnet Areas surveyed Banyule ranks twelth in the State and thirty first in the country which is certainly a terrific achievement.

“Keeping our local area such a great place to live is only going to get harder as we face big challenges such as climate change.

“But if hard work is anything to go by there is no doubt that we will continue to enjoy living in the one of the best places in Australia, and indeed the world, for many years to come.

“The future holds more cooperation between the local community, local councils and State Government which I’m confident will cement Nillumbik and Banyule’s reputation as terrific places to live,” Mr Herbert said.

Steve Herbert MP is always keen to hear the communities suggestions on way to improve the local area, so don’t hesitate to call his office on 9439 1500 or drop in at 718 Main Road Eltham to discuss your ideas with him and his staff.

19^th August 2008

CRIME DOESN’T PAY IN NILLUMBIK AND BANYULE

Banyule, Nillumbik and Manningham have recorded the biggest crime drop in the state since 2000/2001 according to latest figures officially released by Victoria Police.

“Nillumbik and Banyule have recorded the greatest drops in crime rates in the State thanks to some terrific work by local police departments.

“Our local police work tirelessly 24/7 to prevent crime and catch criminals and it’s certainly paying dividends.

“Since 2001 we have witnessed drops of 30.1 per cent and 25.5 per cent in Nillumbik and Banyule respectively which is an amazing result.

The 2007/08 figures highlight a 13.2 per cent drop in crime in the Banyule Police Service Area whilst Nillumbik dropped by 10.2 per cent for the period of 2006/2007 to 2007/2008.

“We have some of the best sporting clubs, best schools and wonderful, natural residential areas in the State and now we can add being one of the safest areas to raise a family to the list with Nillumbik recording the 3^rd lowest crime rate in the state.

“Never should a community have to tolerate crime, and the State Government remains committed to doing everything within its power to fight crime on every front,” Mr Herbert said.

11^th August 2008

JUDGE BOOK RETIREMENT VILLAGE – NO LONGER ON THE MARKET

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, welcomes the terrific news that Judge Book Village is no longer to be sold and will remain owned and operated by Melbourne Citymission.

“The decision of Melbourne Citymission to reconsider the sale of Judge Book Village is good news for residents,” Mr Herbert said.

“This is a testament to the hard work of local residents groups and the integrity of Melbourne Citymission that MCM has decided to stick with Judge Book and plan to improve the facilities in the future.

“Melbourne Citymission has stuck by their community assurance that strict conditions would be imposed on the sale and it would only proceed if it were in the best interests of the residents and community,” Mr Herbert said.

Following the announcement of the sale in late 2007 there was much community concern and the issue was raised in Parliament by Steve Herbert MP.  In December 2007 Mr Herbert called on the Government to protect the rights of residents of the Judge Book Retirement Village and to ensure that it was only sold to a non-for-profit organisation.

“I have been in regular contact with Melbourne Citymission in regard to the sale of Judge Book and always appreciated the transparency in their decision making and the lengths they went to to provide information about the sale.

“It’s reassuring to see that a decision has been taken based on the principals of providing the best possible care to Judge Book residents.

“For many elderly and frail people, Judge Book Village is their home and their personal well-being should always be the number one priority.

“I am glad that the village is to remain in the hands of Melbourne Citymission and look forward to working with them to improve the centre over the coming years,” Mr Herbert said.

11th August 2008

MORE PROGRESS AT ELTHAM STATION

The extended car park at Eltham Station is complete and open, with 100 new parking spaces now available for local commuters.

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, said the finished car park will be a boon for local train commuters and local residents.

“Eltham Station is the last premium station on the Hurstbridge line and services a huge number of people from Eltham and surrounding areas.

“The public transport system has experienced a massive growth in patronage which brings with it an increase in people wanting to park at train stations.

“This had created a problem of congestion on streets around Eltham station as the car park overflowed onto the roadside on Diamond St and other nearby streets,” Mr Herbert said.

The station upgrade has been funded as part of the $90 million allocated to new metropolitan Park & Ride facilities, under the State Government’s 10-year, $10.5 billion Meeting Our Transport Challenges action plan. 

“In addition to the new parking spaces, security at Eltham station has been boosted through the provision of improved lighting and CCTV coverage.

“Eltham will also be the first station in metropolitan Melbourne to receive a next generation cycle cage to provide improved facilities for those who choose to cycle to the station.

These bike cages are part of a $1 million investment to install up to 20 cages across Melbourne’s train network and at key regional hubs, providing around 400 secure new bike spaces for public transport users.

”These cycle cages will feature more secure access and a larger storage capacity than the bike lockers and cages currently in use, giving more people the option of combining bike and train travel and providing greater peace of mind to existing users. 

“This extended car park is one of a number of major service and infrastructure upgrades to the Hurstbridge line, such as current construction to remove the bottleneck at Clifton Hill and 128 extra services the line has received since 1999,” Mr Herbert said.

“New automated signalling for Eltham station is also now well underway,” Mr Herbert said.

11^th August 2008

RAIL SIGNALLING PRESERVATION PROJECT GETS THE GREEN LIGHT

Historic railway equipment currently being replaced as a result of the $6 million signal upgrade to the Hurstbridge line is to be preserved as part of a permanent display at the Eltham Railway Station.

“I’m pleased to announce that the campaign to preserve historic parts of the old Hurstbridge line signalling, some of which is around 100 years old, has paid off with the Government agreeing to provide the resources to make the project a reality.

“A permanent area housing a display of the existing but antiquated equipment along with images of the construction of the railway line and a video display of how the old system works will be on permanent public display at the Eltham station.

“As our lives evolve and modernise it becomes more and more important to remember the way things were.

“The Hurstbridge line is currently undergoing a major signal upgrade which will replace the old signalling along the line.

“This old signalling equipment is no longer appropriate for our train system and is being replaced with a modern centrally linked and more efficient system.

“By saving some of the old signalling and putting it on display at the Eltham Railway Station, future generations will be able to get an idea of how things have evolved and changed over the decades,” Mr Herbert said.

The $6 million signalling upgrade, currently underway, will link the Hurstbridge line to the central Metrol system which, when combined with a $52 million duplication of the line between Clifton Hill and Westgarth, will enable more capacity on the Hurstbridge line.

Harry Gilham from the Eltham District Historical Society was “relieved to be able to finally endorse this action to preserve our historical past.”

“Eltham station was the end of the line in 1902 and holds a large amount of historically significant equipment, especially as it was the main loading yard for goods from our area to travel to Melbourne.

“We wish to thank the members of the local community who signed the petition and helped bring this project to a successful conclusion” said Mr Gilham 

“It’s pleasing to see this project has been given the support it deserves and that key pieces of our past will remain for future generations,” Mr Herbert said.

30^th July 2008

PROUD VICTORIAN STUDENTS STRUT THEIR STUFF

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, hosted celebrations for the Eltham Victoria Day Competition winners on Friday the 1^st of August.

“It’s really important that students understand the tradition of Victoria Day by celebrating our States people and achievements.

“Each year I run the Eltham Victoria Day Competition for local primary students asking them to colour in or draw a picture, complete a word-find and a Victoria Places exercise.

“Many students enjoy entering the colouring, writing and art competitions and local schools have found this competition provides the perfect backdrop for students to learn more about the State we live in,” Mr Herbert said.

July 1st is the anniversary of when the settlements of Port Phillip and Gippsland gained independence from New South Wales to become the colony of Victoria in 1851.

“As in previous years, the quality of this year’s student entries was exceptional making it very tough to pick a winner.

“However, after much deliberation between the judges, the winners were finally chosen,” said Mr Herbert

The 2008 Eltham Victoria Day Competition winners are:

	Student name	School
Grade 5/6	Rebekah Bertram	Holy Trinity Catholic Primary
	Molly Townsend	Our Lady Help of the Christians
	Callum	Lower Plenty Primary
	Brooke Nye-Calder	Eltham Primary
	Hugh Heys	Eltham Primary
Grade 3/4	Connor	Holy Trinity Catholic Primary
	Gabby Salamone	Glen Katherine Primary
	Taylor Blakley	Glen Katherine Primary
	Joshua Harrat	Greenhills Primary
	Olivia Smith	Greenhills Primary
	Damon Lund	Eltham East Primary
Prep/Grade 1/2	Samuel Egan	Holy Trinity Catholic Primary
	David Collis	Plenty Valley Montessori
	Olivia	Greenhills Primary
	Maddison	Glen Katherine
	Jess Sirrianni	Lower Plenty Primary
	Olivia Lazankas	Eltham East Primary
	Connor Tyssen	Our Ladies Help of the Christians

“All the students who entered should be congratulated for their wonderful work, and a big thank you must also go to the schools for helping make these celebrations such a wonderful event.

23^rd July 2008

HELP ELTHAM CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF SUFFRAGE

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP is urging locals to become a part of Victorian history and sign the 2008 Monster Petition celebrating 100 years of women’s suffrage.

“The right to vote is not something that all Australian citizens have always enjoyed – women were denied this basic human right for many years.

“But thanks to the amazing work of the “suffragettes” 100 years ago, a 260 metre long “Monster petition” helped democracy in Victoria take a huge step forward by insisting women were included in the vote,” Mr Herbert said.

The Monster Petition is about 260 metres long and 200mm wide and is made of paper pasted to cotton or linen fabric backing, rolled onto a cardboard spindle which rests on a stand. Several attendants were required to carry it into Parliament where it was tabled in September 1891.

“To celebrate this momentous event I have in my office a calico banner that I am urging local men and women to come in and sign.

On display at Steve’s office is one of 170 calico banners that are traveling across Victoria this year to mark the 100^th anniversary of Victorian women winning the right to vote.

“250 to 300 signatures is the aim of most banners but I believe we can do better than that.

“When the calico banners are sewn together at the end of the year I would like for Eltham’s to be the standout, clearly packed with signatures above and beyond what was expected.

“So this is a call out to Eltham residents – drop into my office and sign the banner.  There is also a petition that I would ask everyone to put their name to.

“Women gaining the right to vote was a momentous occasion in our democracy and certainly something worth celebrating.

“The aim is to collect 30,000 signatures in acknowledgment of the achievement of the original ‘monster’ petition that was organized in 1891 to demonstrate to Parliament that ordinary women wanted the right to vote,” Mr Herbert said.

Today the original Monster Petition is held safely at Melbourne’s public records office. It was recently listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Australian register and was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in August 2007.

For more information about Victorian Women Vote 1908 – 2008, log onto www.women.vic.gov.au/womenvote

9^th July 2008

DEVELOPMENT GRANTS RECOGNISE VICTORIA’S DIVERSE ARTS SECTOR

Local poet, Jordie Albiston will join other Victorian artists, writers, photographers, dancers and arts organisations sharing in $623,000 of funding recently announced by the State Government.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, is looking forward to the full-length collection of poems by the talented local poet once they are completed.

“Eltham is most well known for its artistic flare and talent and this grant will help local poet, Jordie Albiston, create what I’m sure will be a terrific piece of art.

“Jordie Albiston is a very talented local poet and has received a multitude of nominations and awards for her work.

“One of Jordie’s best known works is Botany Bay Document: a poetic history of the women of Botany Bay, later becoming a performance which, in 2004, was staged at the Sydney Opera house.

“Providing support to local artists is vital in ensuring that the diverse creativity Eltham is so well known for will continue to flourish,” Mr Herbert said.

Steve Herbert MP also encourages all local artists to apply for funding from the Art’s Victoria 2008-09 funding programs.

“It’s important that our strong history of artistic endeavors continues into the future and that young and emerging artists are encouraged to submit their ideas for public scrutiny by applying for public grants,” Mr Herbert said.

Arts Victoria’s 2008-09 funding programs are now open for applications. In addition to the Creation and Presentation categories, the Arts Development program now features a Programming category to support Victorian arts companies to present a series or season of works over 12 months. Program details can be found on the Arts Victoria website: www.arts.vic.gov.au

7^th July 2008

Eltham Taking Part in Empowering Victorian Small Businesses

Small business takes centre stage in Eltham this August.  The month long focus on the small business sector promises more than 360 events to energise business potential across Victoria.

Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, is encouraging local business people looking to start or build their small business to participate in events during the Victorian Government’s Energise Enterprise 08 Small Business Festival.

“Eltham will be part of the Small Business Festival, hosting 2 seminars giving small business owners the chance to get some tips on how to better manage their finance.

“Locally, we have very few large business organisations but rather many thriving and strong small business operators who are the lifeblood of the local economy.

“Small business provides hundreds of thousands of jobs around the country yet too often business owners don’t get the chance or time to stand back and look at what is needed to improve their business.

“This year, the four-week Small Business Festival will be bigger and better with hundreds of events taking place across metropolitan and regional Victoria throughout August,” Mr Herbert said.

Since the inaugural festival in 2006, Energise Enterprise has rapidly grown to be a major feature on Victoria's business calendar.  Last year, 149 participating organisations worked with Small Business Victoria to stage 371 events.  Over 26,000 small to medium business operators or start-ups participated in the festival.

The following events are to be hosted in Eltham:

Event Title	Event Description	Date and Time
Financial Controls for Small Business Seminar	This seminar will help you look analytically at your small business. You'll learn how to review business procedures, minimise financial risks and improve business practice.	06/08/2008 7pm
Understanding Financial Statements Seminar	This seminar teaches small business owners how to read, develop and analyse vital financial information.  Participants will also learn more about forecasting and budgeting.	20/08/2008 7pm

“The festival will cover a wide range of subjects including business start-up, intellectual property protection, cash flow management, marketing, risk management and innovation – just to name a few,” Mr Herbert said.

“There are a whole host of seminars happening all over the State, many of them are free, so I would strongly encourage local businesses to get involved,” Mr Herbert said.

Call 13 22 15 or log onto business.vic.gov.au/energise to register for Energise Enterprise 08 Small Business Festival.

2^nd July 2008

NILLUMBIK – A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE…LONGER!

Recent figures have shown Australia has the second highest life expectancy in the world.  And recent report titled Australia’s Health 2008 has shown that Nillumbik has the highest life expectancy for males anywhere in Australia and equal seventh highest life expectancy for females.

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, believes these figures reflect the terrific active and healthy lifestyle that this area is so well known for.

“Well we all know this area is a wonderful place to live and now we know that it is a wonderful place to live longer!

“Living such long lives also highlights the importance of looking after our health and maintaining a balanced life style.

“Importantly, if our children are going to continue this trend of longevity into the future, we need to tackle the obesity epidemic.

“We must also ensure that sport and physical activity continue to play a central part in our lives,” Mr Herbert said.

Figures from Australia’s Health 2008 show Australian’s, at birth, can expect to live until 79.0 years for males and 83.7 for females.  Only Japan has a higher average life expectancy. 

Victorian Government Health Figures show males in Nillumbik can expect to live until 81.5 years old and females 84.8 years old.

Victorian Government Figures can be found at www.health.vic.gov.au/healthstatus while the Australia’s Health 2008 report can be found at www.aihw.gov.au/publications

25^th June 2008

SPORT SAFETY TIPS FOR SIDESTEPPING INJURIES

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, is keen to see fewer injuries and more happy faces on local sports fields.

He’s launching a Safer Sports Kit “designed to assist local clubs to help prevent on field injuries.”

“The safe sport kits contain information compiled by Sports Medicine Australia with ways to expand the knowledge of players, trainers and teachers about how to reduce sporting injuries.

“Eltham has a very active community and is full of terrific sporting clubs, many of which are near or at the top in their field.

“Be it basketball, AFL, soccer, lacrosse, tennis or the multitude of other sports played locally, it’s terrific to see Eltham continue to produce first class athletes, teams and clubs.

“However there is an unfortunate consequence of all this sport and activity, and that’s injury.

“I’m sure all sporting clubs, sporting participants and parents of sportspeople would agree that avoiding injuries on the field should be a priority of everyone involved in sport,” Mr Herbert said

“And while not all injuries are avoidable, the safer sports kits are packed with ways to lower the risk of injury,” Mr Herbert said.

Information available includes In-line skating, Hockey, Squash, Walking, Mouthguards, Running, Basketball, Netball, Australian Football, Tennis, Soccer, Rugby League, Volleyball, Lawn bowls, Softball, Rugby Union, Baseball, Golf and Cricket.

“I urge local sporting clubs to get in touch with my office to arrange to get these kits for their club.

To obtain a Sports Safety Information Kits for your club contact Steve Herbert’s office on 9439 1500 or drop in at 718 Main Rd, Eltham.

25^th June 2008

$500,000 MAKES MONTY BASKETBALL STADIUM A REALITY

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, today visited Montmorency Secondary College with the Minister for Sports and Recreation, the Hon. James Merlino, to announce $500,000 to make a new basketball stadium at Montmorency Secondary College a reality.

Mr Merlino said today that he was “delighted to today announce the final $500,000 required for the project has been put on the table by the State Government.

“This $500,000 comes on top of $750,000 previously put towards the stadium by the State Government.

Mr Herbert paid tribute to the hard work by everyone involved in getting the project to this stage.

“After years of hard work Montmorency Secondary College, our terrific local basketball clubs and the local community will get a major boost in the form of a brand new two court basketball stadium.

“This project will build a state-of-the-art basketball facility for the Eltham Wildcats and Montmorency Secondary College on the grounds of the school.

“The beauty of this particular project means the school can make use of the facility during the day and the Wildcats get to use it outside school hours - it’s almost like building two first class stadiums for the price of one.

“Montmorency Secondary College will be able to use the space for a whole host of school activities as well as basketball.

“The stadium will provide much needed playing space for a vibrant and growing Montmorency competition,” Mr Herbert said.

The Eltham Wildcats have over 3,000 playing members, 250 referees, 250 coaches and 40 part-time administrators making them the largest basketball club in Victoria.

“The local community will also be able to use the new space for a variety of purposes which will help nurture more local programs providing more opportunities to be healthy, active and connected.

“This project is a boon for the local community and has been made possible thanks to the terrific co-operation between the State Government, Eltham Wildcats, Montmorency Secondary College and Banyule City Council,” Mr Herbert said.

18th June 2008

A Safe passage for Retirement Home Residents

After years of agitation, Judge Book Village residents can now safely get to the Eltham shops courtesy of new traffic lights and pedestrian crossing at the Diamond Street and Main Road intersection in Eltham.

“The lack of a pedestrian crossing on Diamond Street near the Main Road lights has been a serious problem for many years.

“Residents from Judge Book Village regularly cross Diamond Street which, without some lights stopping car traffic, was a very dangerous situation.

“Now Judge Book residents can get to the shops and do everyday things, which many people take for granted, easier and safer.

“After a through redesign and the addition of a pedestrian crossing across Diamond Street, local residents can now cross there with a much greater deal of safety which is great news especially for residents of Judge Book Village.

“It may not seem much for most people, but the dangerous situation we had here with residents having to cross Diamond St without a pedestrian crossing was a major deterrent for people wanting to leave the village.

“The change in lighting should also make it much safer for traffic joining Main Road from Diamond Street.

“I would ask that residents take extra care around the intersection while everyone gets used to the changes.

“It may take some time for VicRoads to ensure the new lights are well sequenced,” Mr Herbert said.

“The Residents Association should be congratulated on their efforts and the great outcome they have secured for Judge Book Retirement Village,” said Mr Herbert.

17^th June 2008 

Finishing Touches Being Put on Eltham Train Station Car Park Upgrade

Eltham train commuters will soon find parking at the Eltham train station much easier thanks to an upgrade to the Eltham Station car park due to be completed in August.

State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert MP, says the upgrade is part of a $90 million program to improve Park and Ride facilities set out by the State Government.

“The addition of around 120 spaces at the Eltham station is more great news for local commuters.

“The increase in parking spaces will relieve congestion on residential streets near the station and free up parking spaces for people accessing shops, schools and other local services.

“With a recent explosion in public transport patronage, locals have been finding it increasingly difficult to park at the Eltham train station.

“This has resulted in clogged residential streets and commuters having to drive to train stations such as Watsonia to find a parking spot,” Mr Herbert said.

Park and Ride services combine the benefits of both car use and public transport use into an efficient and effective system and to transfer parking demand from the inner city to suburban/urban fringe locations where more room for parking is available.

“It’s important that parking at train stations is boosted to allow for increased demands from people who choose to catch the train rather than drive to their destination.

“In addition to the new parking spaces at Eltham, security at the station will be boosted through the provision of improved lighting and CCTV coverage.

“More parking spaces and improved security means a more accessible, safer station for Eltham residents.” Mr Herbert said.

“The Hurstbridge line has been the recipient of a number of upgrades since 1999, including the addition of 128 extra services to the weekly timetable, $52 million track duplication over the Merri Creek and $6 million upgrade of signalling.

“And while it’s clear that improvements to the system are still required, these changes will help the State Government face the challenge of moving thousands of extra people every day and will lay the foundations for continued investment in public transport,” Mr Herbert said.

16th June 2008

Montmorency South Primary Schools Hosts Premier's Reading Challenge Author

Author of the popular “Specky McGee” and “Boyz Rule!” series of books, Mr Felice Arena, paid a visit to Montmorency South Primary School on Friday the 13^th of June and treated the kids to a terrific talk on the Premier’s Reading Challenge.

Mr Arena, introduced by Member for Eltham ,Steve Herbert MP, had 60 grade 4 and 5 children in fits of laughter after running a play based on the first chapter of one of his “Specky McGee” books with the help of some of the students and teachers at Montmorency South Primay.

“Felice has a terrific way with kids, and certainly entertained all present - students, teachers and myself - with his “world premier” of “Specky McGee” coming off the pages and into real life”

“The Premier’s Reading Challenge is a great way to get kids involved in reading and too hopefully instil a lifelong love or books.

This year there are 255 Montmorency South Primary School students involved in the Premier’s Reading Challenge – an increase from 194 in 2007.

“I was fortunate to be given a tour of the school by two students, Jamie and Matt, prior to Felice’s audience with the students and I must say the condition of the school is an absolute tribute to the hard work of staff, students and parents.

“Montmorency South Primary, and indeed all of the schools in the local area, have taken on the Premier’s Reading Challenge with gusto and

“They have created a 1^st class learning environment at the school and clearly take great pride in their facilities and grounds.

“I am proud of the Montmorency South Primary School for demonstrating the quality of our local schools to one of this years Premier’s Reading Challenge authors.

“It would have been impossible for Felice not to have been impressed by obvious pride the local community holds for the school.,” Mr Herbert said.