2 Local Government Elections

3 Mitcham Library Service Book Sale

4 Council Needs Volunteers for its Parks and Reserves

5 Upcoming Work in Your Street

6 History Festival 2014

8 Your Elected Members

10 Community Calendar

11 Conserving Mitcham Water Works

12 Waste Management

inside April 2014

Illegal dumping poses risks to the health and safety of our community as well as to our environment while costing rate payers over $140,000 every year to clean up.

Did you know that many of these items can be collected through Council’s hard waste collection service?

Every household in Mitcham is entitled to a hard waste collection each year and residents can call Council to make a booking for a time that is suitable to them.

While some items such as electronic waste, tyres and hazardous waste are not accepted in the hard waste collection service there are options to dispose of these in the right way. For

example, residents can recycle electronic waste such as TVs and computers for free at various locations across Adelaide. Many of these facilities will accept other electronic waste for a small fee. Did you know about 90% of what’s used to make TVs and computers can be recycled?

Anyone who suspects or witnesses illegal dumping is encouraged to contact Council. Illegal dumping is an offence and penalties of $315 to $5,000 can apply if anyone is found to be dumping illegally.

We are all responsible for the waste we generate, so let’s keep our city looking good.

Illegal dumping is becoming a major problem with people dumping unwanted items such as couches, mattresses, furniture, TVs and tyres in front of houses, alongside roads, on reserves and in our creeks.

Illegal Dumping – Don’t Rubbish Mitcham

For more information on illegal dumping and how you can dispose of your unwanted items, please contact Council on 8372 8888 or visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Illegal Dumping is not a good look for our City.

illegal

dumpingillegal dumping

illegal dumping

April 2014 publicAtion DetAilsMitcham Community News is published bi-monthly by and for the City of Mitcham.

EditorialCommunications Department City of Mitcham

Design + ProductionSarah Bennett Design

Reprographics + PrintingGraphic Print Group

PaperstockPrinted on paper made in Australia from elemental chlorine free pulp derived from sustainable plantation forests.

DistributionSalmat Mediaforce and Australia PostDelivered to 29,850 homes, PO boxes and businesses within the Mitcham Council area.

AdvertisingKRL Media ServicesTelephone: 8231 5433PO Box 131 Unley, SA 5061

Contributing ArticlesCommunity groups and organisations submitting items for the June 2014 issue of this publication should ensure they reach Business Partner Communication and Marketing Officer Julie Lamond no later than Friday 9 May 2014.Telephone: 8372 8871 or email jlamond@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.auGood quality colour/high resolution colour photographs/image files can be submitted although publication will depend on space availability.

Websitewww.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Audio TapesMitcham Community News audio tapes are available at both Mitcham and Blackwood Libraries or by arrangement from the Community Information Service. Telephone: 8372 8812.

Council MeetingsThe Development Assessment Panel meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6.30 pm. Full Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm.

Council Civic CentreOpen weekdays 9 am to 5 pm.131 Belair Road, Torrens Park orPO Box 21, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Torrens Park, South Australia 5062Telephone: 8372 8888

The views and opinions expressed in articles and advertisements submitted by contributors, other than the City of Mitcham, do not necessarily reflect the views of the Council as a body, nor as individual members. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy in published articles submitted by contributors other than Council, no responsibility is accepted for any errors that they may contain.

Council is Calling for Expressions of Interest to use W A Norman Reserve during Winter.The City of Mitcham is considering a proposal to issue licence(s) for the winter use of the W A Norman Reserve playing field and clubroom located on the corner of Old Belair Road and High Street in Mitcham.

Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for use of the playing field and/or club room at W A Norman Reserve during winter under licence agreements from 1 April 2015 to 30 September 2018.

Baseball and softball are currently played at W A Norman Reserve during the summer season under licence agreements from Council, including a licence for the club room.

Council is now seeking expressions of interest from sporting, recreation and community organisations and other suitable organisations for the use of W A Norman Reserve and the club room for the winter period

between 2015 and 2018, consistent with the management plan for this reserve.

Council is also inviting written feedback from the community regarding unlicensed use of W A Norman Reserve.

Information relating to this proposal and the forms for lodging an Expression of Interest are available at:

� City of Mitcham Civic Centre, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park

� Mitcham Library, 154 Belair Road, Hawthorn

� Blackwood Library, 215 Main Road, Blackwood

� www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Expressions of Interest (3 copies) addressing the selection criteria in full must be lodged in the Tender Box by 5 pm 15 May 2014 at:

City of Mitcham

131 Belair Road

TORRENS PARK SA 5062

Feedback from the community is welcome by 5 pm 15 May 2014 addressed to Chief Executive Officer, City of Mitcham, PO Box 21, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Torrens Park SA 5062.

Are you enrolled to vote in the Local Government Elections this year?Landlords, business owners, occupiers and non-Australian citizens to be able to vote in the November Local Government Elections, you must be either on the House of Assembly Roll or on Council’s voters roll.

Council’s voters roll expired on 1 January 2014. If you have previously applied to be on the roll, you will need to apply again before August 2014, if you want to be able to vote in the 2014 Council elections.

People who are typically on Council’s voters roll are:

� persons who reside in the Council area but are not enrolled on the House of Assembly roll

� a ratepayer who is the sole owner and/or occupier of a rateable property but does not reside at the property

� a body corporate which is the sole owner/occupier of a rateable property

� a group of persons who are joint owners/ratepayers of a rateable property

Application forms can be obtained from the City of Mitcham Civic Centre, 131 Belair Road, Torrens Park. For further information contact Lyn Bishop on 8372 8856 or Meredith Nunan on 8372 8837.

Please note that if your name is already on the House of Assembly Roll, you do not have to apply, unless you also want to exercise a vote as a landlord or a business lessee.

Nominate to Become an Elected Member for CouncilNow is the time to start thinking about standing as a candidate to become an Elected Member for Council in the November Local Government elections.

Do any of the following apply to you?

1. Are you passionate about your local area and want to have a say in the future directions of the City?

2. Do you want to give something back to your community?

3. Do you have particular skills, knowledge and expertise which could be put to good use in benefiting the community?

4. Are you prepared to represent and be an advocate for your local community?

5. Do you already have a support base in the community (this could be as a member of a local resident group, church congregation, local neighbourhood watch, business group, school council/community or sporting club)?

Yes? Then consider seeing your Council in action. Council meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm. All meetings are open to the public.

The only formal qualifications you need to be a candidate are:

� You must be an Australian citizen, and

� You must be an elector for the area (either on the House of Assembly roll or Council’s voters roll)

Council’s voters roll expired on 1 January 2014. If you were formerly on Council’s voters roll as a landlord or a tenant, you will need to apply for re-enrolment before 8 August 2014.

Nominations will be open from 2 September to noon 16 September 2015.

For further information phone Robert Pride on 8372 8888 or visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

For further information, contact Meredith Nunan on 8372 8837.

pAGe 2 Mitcham Community news April 2014

School Holidays at the LibraryCelebrate Easter at the Mitcham Library Service with craft and stories.

Crafty EasterIn the April school holidays school aged children can decorate a ceramic mug at the Blackwood Library on Tuesday 15 April or at the Mitcham Library on Thursday 17 from 2 pm to 3 pm. $5 per child. To secure your booking visit your Library.

Easter Story TimeEnjoy stories, songs and craft during the holidays from 10.30 am to 11.30 am at the Mitcham Library on Monday 14 and Thursday 17 and at the Blackwood Library on Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16. Suitable for children aged 2 to 5.

For more information call the Mitcham Library on 8372 8244 or Blackwood Library on 8372 8255.

For more information contact Julie Lamond via email jlamond@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or on 8372 8871.

Keep Up to Date with the Latest Council NewsWould you like to receive the latest information, news and events from the City of Mitcham online?

The City of Mitcham offers residents the option to receive Council information online via Twitter, Facebook or e-news (email).

Twitter and Facebook are free services that let you keep in touch online and e-news allows you to receive the latest Council information including services and programs, exhibitions, public meetings, community consultations as

well as notification when agendas and minutes are available on the website via email.

Your email address will only be used by Council to provide information to you and will not be provided to any external organisations or for any other purposes.

Join us online today just visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au and fill in the details.

Mayor Michael Picton and Textile Artist Barbara Mullan at the opening of the exhibition.

Mitcham Artists on the FringeThe Mitcham Cultural Village Atrium Gallery hosted an exhibition ‘Mitcham Artists on the Fringe’ in February.

This stunning display of textiles demonstrated varied techniques and materials as part of the Adelaide Fringe Festival - a celebration of the Visual Arts.

The variety of work displayed, reminds us of the limitless possibilities of art, how it connects communities and the quiet expertise exemplifying the Mitcham Cultural Village as a satellite that provides a broad range of opportunities to celebrate diversity.

Volunteer!• HelpontheCommunityBus• Providetransportforvitalappointments• Supportolderpeopletoconnectwithcommunityactivities

Be a part of our community and help others be a part of our community!

Phone 8372 8860

Enrich life!

Mitcham Library Service Annual Book SaleMitcham’s Library Service is selling thousands of books at cheap prices to the general public on Saturday May 24 from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday May 25 from 10 am to 1 pm.

Come along and browse through an extensive range of ex-library, newly donated and second hand books including fiction, non-fiction and children’s titles as well as a limited selection of DVDs and CDs at St Bernadette’s Hall, corner South Road and Walsh Avenue, St Marys.

The year’s book sale will be one of our biggest yet. It provides excellent value and offers something to suit all reading tastes with all proceeds going to the Mitcham Library Service.

For further information please contact the Mitcham Library on 8372 8244 or Blackwood Library on 8372 8255.

pAGe 3 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Council Needs Volunteers for its Parks and ReservesThe City of Mitcham is seeking volunteers to help care for our unique cottage and bushland gardens. During the cooler months of the year it is a perfect time to get outside and get your hands dirty!

Council has a number of reserves that need volunteers:

JWS Morris Reserve, HawthornA group of six local residents have recently been inducted and have begun working on the reserve. Volunteers meet quarterly, for a few hours, with their tasks including weed control, pruning, rubbish pick up and general maintenance.

Blackwood Hill Reserve, BlackwoodThis Friends group is being resurrected again to care for a part of the reserve located north of the Blackwood Football Club oval (adjacent to the corner of Trevor

Terrace and Alison Avenue). Volunteers meet monthly and will mainly be undertaking weed control and native plantings.

Kenny Park, Eden HillsA small group of local residents are keen to get a Friends group up and running again. Volunteers meet monthly and will mainly be undertaking weeding, pruning, mulching and rubbish pick up.

Mitcham Scented Gardens, HawthornBe part of a team to resurrect the garden beds. Volunteers meet monthly and have a unique opportunity to be part of not only

nurturing a lovely cottage garden but providing an invaluable contribution to the community.

Roseberry Reserve, Eden HillsNew volunteers are wanted to assist in a planting day in winter.

Clapham Reserve, ClaphamAn enthusiastic group of local residents are volunteering on this reserve every second Tuesday from 9 am. New volunteers are always welcome.

All volunteers need to be inducted (which involves a police check) and receive on site training and supervision.

If you are interested please call Susan Lawrie, Coordinator Open Space Volunteers on 8372 8888.

Open Day at Urrbrae WetlandEnjoy an open day at the Urrbrae Wetland on Sunday 4 May from 1.30 pm to 4 pm.

The Friends of the Urrbrae Wetland invite you to enjoy illustrated talks and guided walks through the wetland this autumn. There are also special tours for younger visitors.

Every Tuesday morning, this energetic group of volunteers, work at the site. At this time of year they are preparing the ground and planting seedlings, some of which they have propagated from plants thriving in the Wetland environment.

For more information about the Wetland visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urrbrae_Wetland

For more information visit www.centennialpark.org/

Honouring Anzac Day at Centennial Park CemeteryStudents from Scotch College will continue a 22-year tradition and lay Australian flags on more than 3,500 memorials at Centennial Park Cemetery’s Derrick Gardens for Anzac Day.

Centennial Park is South Australia’s largest cemetery for returned servicemen and women.

The annual flag laying tradition is a fitting tribute by students from Scotch College to honour and remember those who served our country so gallantly.

The special ceremony will also involve a lone piper from the Scotch School Pipe Band.

Centenary Celebrations for Westbourne Park Primary SchoolWestbourne Park Primary School centenary celebrations began in February with the official opening ceremony and garden launch.

Students, old scholars and visitors celebrated 100 years with the opening of a garden.

Centenary CelebrationsCocktail Function 14 June

Trivia Night 2 August

Centenary Open Day for Old Scholars 24 October

Centenary Fair 26 October

For more information please visit www.wpps100.com.au or phone 8271 7430

Above: Westbourne Park Primary School Captains in the new opened garden. Below: Westbourne Park Students formed a human landscape ‘WPPS100’.

John Wilson a volunteer for the City of Mitcham on JWS Morris Reserve.

pAGe 4 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Kerbing Construction

Council’s kerb and watertable replacement works have been completed in:

Coolidge Street, Lower MitchamEynesbury Avenue, KingswoodFlinders Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens

Council’s kerb and watertable replacement works are currently ongoing in:

Albert Street, Clarence GardensBarretts Road, Torrens ParkBurbank Avenue, Bedford ParkHigh Street, MitchamLincoln Road, Bedford ParkMaidstone Road, Bedford Park

Council’s kerb and watertable replacement works due to commence in April and May:

Bowyer Crescent, Cumberland ParkSaunders Street, Mitcham

Stormwater Construction

Council’s stormwater drainage construction has been completed in:

Goldney Grove, HawthorndeneSuffolk Road, Hawthorndene

Council’s stormwater drainage construction work are currently ongoing in:

Adamson Avenue, BelairBarretts Road, Torrens ParkHigh Street, MitchamLowan Avenue, Glenalta

Council’s stormwater drainage construction work due to commence in April and May:

Greenwood Grove, Urrbrae

Road Works

Road works recently completed:

AA Bailey Reserve (northern car park and Entrance Road), Clarence GardensArdrossan Avenue, BelairBrook Lane, Torrens ParkClaire Street, Lower MitchamCoolidge Avenue, Lower MitchamCorunna Street, Melrose ParkCrowder Street, Lower MitchamDoncaster Avenue, Colonel Light GardensFraser Street, Lower MitchamGarden Road, Westbourne ParkGrigg Court, Clarence GardensHessian Avenue, Clarence GardensJose Street, Melrose ParkMonash Avenue, Belair

Pages Road, MitchamPenang Avenue, Melrose ParkSurrey Crescent, Lower MitchamWestern Avenue, BlackwoodSuffolk Road, HawthorndeneRankeys Hill Road, Hawthorndene

Council’s road rehabilitation and overlay works programmed to commence in April and May:

Albert Street, Clarence GardensBarretts Road, Torrens ParkBurbank Avenue, Bedford ParkEdward Street, Melrose ParkEynesbury Avenue, KingswoodGladstone Road, BlackwoodHigh Street, MitchamKinedana Street, Eden HillsLincoln Road, Bedford ParkMaidstone Road, Bedford ParkOlave Hill Road (Stage 2), Hawthorndene

Traffic Management

Road safety projects are continuing:

Blackwood – consultation on a draft traffic management plan at Blackwood is ongoing.Clapham – Consultation on a draft traffic management plan for part of the Panorama and Clapham area has been completed and outcomes are being considered by Council.

Council’s traffic works programmed to commence in April and May:

Ayr Avenue, Torrens Park

Footpath Construction

Paving works recently completed:

Ashbourne Avenue, KingswoodBedford Square, Colonel Light GardensBennett Avenue, Melrose ParkBoothby Street, PanoramaComaum Street, St MarysCoolidge Street, Lower MitchamElphyn Road, KingswoodFlinders Avenue, Colonel Light GardensFrontenac Avenue, PanoramaKiana Street, St MarysMelton Street, BlackwoodOld Belair Road, MitchamPaul Street, St MarysPinn Street, St MarysPitfour Road, ClaphamPrice Avenue, Lower MitchamPortland Place, Colonel Light GardensRentoul Avenue, NetherbyRichmond Road, Westbourne ParkShepley Avenue, PanoramaSierra Nevada Boulevard, PasadenaSouth Road, St Marys

Southern Avenue, St MarysTafquin Street, PanoramaWillunga Street, Eden Hills

Paving works underway:

Belair Road, Hawthorn Hollywood Way and Sun Valley Drive, GlenaltaMain Road, BlackwoodShepherds Hill Road, Bedford ParkThorngate Drive, Belair

Paving works programmed to commence in April and May:

Barretts Road, Torrens ParkBowyer Crescent, Cumberland ParkBurbank Avenue, Bedford ParkCalifornian Drive, GlenaltaCunard Drive, HawthorndeneGrevillea Way, BelairLincoln Road, Bedford ParkLowan Avenue, GlenaltaMaidstone Road, Bedford ParkScroop Road, HawthorndeneSpringbank Road, Colonel Light Gardens/ClaphamThe Ridgeway, BelairWalkway (Arizona to Sylvan Way), GlenaltaWinchester Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens

Further information about the infrastructure program is available at www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/goto/budget

Upcoming Work in Your Street

A new Train has been installed at Crozier Reserve in Daw ParkThe City of Mitcham has recently replaced the train in Crozier Reserve, located on Crozier Avenue in Daw Park.

The new equipment includes a brightly coloured new train with three carriages, a plane and a cubby house/ticket booth. The new equipment encourages role

playing for children with lots of additional activities on each item of equipment.

A new fence and gates have been installed to make the playground

more secure and new seating has also been provided.

Council would like to thank the community for taking the time to help select the new train.

Fire Breaks in ReservesThe Mitcham hills is a recognised high bushfire risk area. Each year Council establishes and maintains over 50 hectares of fire breaks in steep, woodland reserves and roadsides near houses.

Sleeps Hill Quarry ReserveThe fire break is located along the rear of properties on Hawker Avenue and High Street in Belair.

Randell ParkAleppo Pines were recently removed to reduce fuel loads in the gully below Burnell Drive.

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

pAGe 5 Mitcham Community news April 2014

About Time South Australia's History Festival

Celebrate South Australia’s history during the SA History Festival in May. Learn about Mitcham’s rich and diverse history during the ‘About Time’ SA History Festival in May.

For more information about the SA History Festival visit the ‘About Time’ website at www.historyweek.sa.gov.au, email abouttime@history.sa.gov.au or call 8203 9888.

Is that a Queen AnneIdentifying Mitcham’s house styles bus tour

Can you tell a Queen Anne from a Victorian villa? Not sure which is the correct veranda style for your house? Confused about bargeboards and fascias? Join the City of Mitcham’s Heritage Advisor for an informative tour of Mitcham house styles and eras. Learn correct restoration approaches, how to recognise style characteristics and understand some of the more common building terms.

Date: Saturday 3 May

Time: 10 am to 12 pm

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham

Cost: $10 per person

Bookings essential. Call the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Opening of ‘Ruminations’Exhibition of Community Centres

Community centres embody thousands of different experiences; within their many different building forms they are places for learning, for socialising and celebrating. ‘Ruminations’ is an exhibition that examines the social, physical and cultural development of Mitcham’s community centres. Join us to reminisce about past experiences, enjoy the present and look forward to the future life of Mitcham’s community centre family.

Date: Sunday 4 May

Time: 2 pm to 4 pm

Location: Atrium Gallery - Mitcham Cultural Village, Princes Road, Mitcham

Cost: FREE

To book contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Family Ties in Coromandel ValleyFamily history help at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre

Are you researching your family tree? Did your descendents come from Coromandel Valley? Heritage Research Centre volunteer David Wyatt has undertaken extensive research into Coromandel Valley families. David will be on hand at the Heritage Research Centre every Thursday to share his knowledge and help you with your family tree research.

Date: Thursday 8, 15, 22 and 29 May

Time: Between 9.30 am to 4 pm (Open Day)

Location: Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham

Cost: FREE

No bookings required. For more information contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

In Loving MemoryMitcham Cemeteries Tour

Beyond the headstone inscriptions there are many fascinating stories about the lives of past Mitcham residents. Take this guided walking tour through the Mitcham Anglican Cemetery and the historic section of the Mitcham General Cemetery for a glimpse into some very interesting lives.

Date: Wednesday 7 May and Wednesday 21 May

Time: 10 am to 12.30 pm

Location: Meet at the rotunda, Mitcham General Cemetery, Old Belair Road, Mitcham

Cost: $5 per person

Bookings essential. To book call the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

pAGe 6 Mitcham Community news April 2014

About Time South Australia's History Festival

Bookbinding and Paper Marbling WorkshopsIn this era of mass production and e-books traditional skills of bookbinding and marbled endpapers are dying out. Come to one or both of these fascinating workshops for hands-on experience of oriental bookbinding and paper marbling techniques. Hear about the many different aspects of bookbinding and document conservation as you work. Costs are per workshop and include all materials.

Date: Friday 9 May and Friday 16 May

Time: 10 am to 12 pm - Oriental Book Binding 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm - Paper Marbling

Location: Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham

Cost: $10 per person / per workshop

Bookings essential. To book contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Going Down to the DeliLocal shops of Mitcham bus tour

Where did people shop before supermarkets and shopping malls? What did they buy? Which local shops survive, which thrive and which have been reinvented? Take a bus tour of early shops in the Mitcham plains. Take time to peer through shop windows. Enjoy a delicious morning tea at Eire café in Clapham.

Date: Tuesday 13 May

Time: 10 am to 12.30 pm

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham.

Cost: $20 per person (includes Morning Tea)

Bookings essential. To book contact Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Brownhill Creek – Changing CourseBrown Hill Creek - years of change, bus tour

‘Wirraparinga’ was once a favourite gathering place for the Kaurna people. With European settlement of the area in 1837 Brownhill Creek was exploited for its rich resources. In 1914 it was proclaimed a ‘Pleasure Resort’. On this bus tour, see signs of quarries, market gardens and families who settled around the creek; learn of the many changes over the years.

Date: Saturday 17 May

Time: 1.30 pm to 4 pm

Location: Meet at the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre, 103b Princes Road, Mitcham

Cost: $10 per person

Bookings essential. To book contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Good SportsBar Yarns at the ED

Everyone has a yarn to tell. Come together at the Ed to share a legendry or not so legendry true sporting yarn of the district and vie for the Good Sports Champion Bar Yarner title. Anyone can nominate to entertain the audience for up to five minutes, without notes, about a triumphant, heartbreaking, horrible or just downright funny sporting tale.

Date: Wednesday 7 May

Time: 5 pm to 6 pm

Location: Front Bar, Edinburgh Hotel, High Street, Mitcham

Cost: FREE

No bookings required. For more information contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Open HouseFormer Temperance Hotel

Have you noticed that one of Mitcham’s landmark historic buildings has been transformed into an elegant residence? The former Temperance Hotel in Albert Street is one of Mitcham’s earliest hotels. It was awarded the 2014 City of Mitcham Australia Day Excellence in Design Award for heritage restoration. Bookings required. (Open House - Self-guided tour)

Date: Tuesday 20 May

Time: 12 pm to 2 pm

Location: Old Temperance Hotel, 41 Albert Street, Mitcham

Cost: FREE

Bookings essential. To book contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

Colonel Light GardensMore than the bungalows

The distinctive bungalows of Colonel Light Gardens have appealed to generations of South Australians. But how did Charles Reade’s 1917 plan for the suburb challenge conventional planning principles? On this leisurely stroll the unique features of this internationally recognised Model Garden Suburb and its beginnings as an army camp will be explained to you by an experienced guide.

Date: Saturday 24 May

Time: 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm

Location: Meet at corner West Parkway and Sturt Avenue, Colonel Light Gardens

Cost: $5 per person

Bookings essential. To book contact the Mitcham Heritage Research Centre on 8372 8261.

pAGe 7 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Mayor Mayor Michael Picton 0417 812 546

Babbage WardCr. David Munro 0403 161 462Cr. Brett Hearne 0415 150 101

Boorman WardCr. Leanne Moriarty 8379 3797Cr. Judith Weaver 8357 7522

Craigburn WardCr. Nick Greer 0434 330 150Cr. Elaine Grimm 8370 0025Cr. Jane Silbereisen 0477 209 782

Gault WardCr. Chris Adcock 0428 724 315Cr. Stephen Fisher 8272 6116

Overton WardCr. Yvonne Poland 0416 773 973Cr. John Sanderson 0402 517 945

The Park WardCr. Tim Hein 0403 080 080 Cr. Mark Ward 0458 112 358

Contacting Your Elected Member

From your Elected MembersMayor Michael Picton• Brown Hill Creek Resolution

• 2014 History Festival

• Budget Preparation

• Council Elections

TELEPHoNE: 0417 812 546

mpicton@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Brown hill creek resolutionDuring my time on Council I have twice seen the Council public gallery literally ‘packed to the rafters’ with people to witness a historic occasion for Mitcham. The first time was when the decision to build bike trails across the Mitcham hills was carried by Council. The second time was on Tuesday 25 February when Mitcham Council unanimously passed a simple motion that said: ‘That the Brown Hill Keswick Creek Steering Committee places priority on investigating a creek upgrade solution for the upper reaches of Brown Hill Keswick Creek’ and ‘that specific community engagement occurs with affected property owners to identify any issues associated with this solution’.

This simple, yet historic motion has now been moved or endorsed by the four other Councils involved in the Brown Hill and Keswick Creek Stormwater project – Unley, Burnside, West Torrens and

Adelaide. The Councils are now united on a way forward to mitigate flooding that could be caused from the Keswick, Parklands, Glen Osmond and Brown Hill Creeks.

This motion gives the Council’s project team the authority to investigate and talk to residents on the ways in which the Brown Hill Creek channel can be upgraded, cleaned out and have its banks laid back or widened to protect properties along the creek from flooding. Some planning work has already been completed, based on new up to date data from the Bureau of Meteorology. Further complex flood mapping needs to be finalised to definitively show if a no dam, no culvert solution can work in the Mitcham and Unley areas. This is a huge step forward resulting from the respective Councils listening to the community and taking notice of the 10,087 signature petition that was presented to the Mitcham Council on the 25 February by the No Dam in Brown Hill Creek Community Action Group.

The five Councils now await news from the Federal and State Governments on their intentions to fund a third share each of this project, estimated to cost in the vicinity of $150 million.

2014 history FestivalMitcham’s Local History Adviser, Therese Willis and the dedicated team at the Heritage Research Centre at

103b Princes Road, Mitcham have again lined up an interesting range of events for this year’s state wide History Festival.

There are activities and events that everyone will find of interest. Example of these activities include ‘Is that a Queen Anne?’ where Therese will give an insight into the different house styles found in the area and the ever popular Mitcham Cemetery Tour ‘In Loving Memory’. This tour will take you on a walk through the historic Mitcham Cemetery and give you an insight into the lives (and deaths) of some of Mitcham’s earliest pioneers.

Budget PreparationMost Elected Members have been attending a series of important workshops held over the last few months to discuss Council’s Draft 2015/2016 Budget and the Draft Long Term Financial Plan. While there can’t been any decisions made at these meetings, the discussions have enabled staff to prepare a report that has considered future rate increases, new recurrent services and a draft list of operating projects for the next financial year.

council electionsIf you are interested in becoming an Elected Member of Council, or know someone who is interested, now is a good time to start thinking about joining Council. It is a wonderful experience where you will have the

opportunity to become involved in community life right across the city.

The Local Government Associations ‘Council Members’ Guide’ (can be found at www.lga.sa.gov.au) describes being a Councillor as a ‘challenging and rewarding role, but one that requires time, commitment, the capacity to see the “bigger picture” and, importantly, an ability to represent the local community’.

An Elected Member’s most important role is to attend Council Meetings. At Mitcham we hold these meetings fortnightly on a Tuesday night. Briefings are generally held on the other Tuesday nights of the month with other Committee meetings occurring on other nights of the week.

The expectation for Elected Members is for them to spend at least every Tuesday night at Council, where we debate and consider issues with other elected members, Council staff and interested residents. Decisions made at the Council meetings give direction to the Chief Executive Officer who then works with staff to act upon these.

Being an Elected Member can be a time consuming role, however it is one that brings immense personal rewards for those who are elected for the position.

BoorMan Wardcr Judith Weaver• Child’s Play

• High Street, Mitcham

• Netherby Reserve

• Mitcham Reserve

• Sutton Gardens

• Heritage Development Plan Amendment

• Brown Hill Creek

TELEPHoNE: 8357 7522

jweaver@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

child’s PlayI recently read a locally written article ‘51 things to do before you are 12’ . Nature Play SA plans to get children active to address concerns that we are producing children who are in danger of being ‘nature deficit’ in a hands on way. Our electorate is fortunate to have parks, ovals, bush lands and creek lines available for our children to explore, so why aren’t they? How much of children's under exposure is caught up in parent’s fears for their children's safety? Or is it meant to be achieved by sitting in front of a computer and googling the word ‘nature’. Running

parallel with this push for much more connection with the natural world is looking at children’s play in the school yard. A recent study from RMIT from the School of Medical Sciences in Melbourne indicates that children between five and twelve are increasing their creativity and imagination skills by utilising household items in their school yard play grounds. Items such as milk crates, buckets, broom sticks, hay bales are being used. In other words what is referred to as a ‘smorgasbord’ of different opportunities to improve their behavioural and cognitive development. Council has an important role here in responding to this information and working with parents and children to create fun and interesting places and by promoting our special natural world which is so freely available. Your thoughts and ideas please?

high Street Mitcham- north west of the edinburgh hotelWork continues on replacing kerbing, improving the road surface and stabilising areas of the existing footpath. New trees will be planted on the western side in late winter which will greatly benefit the visual amenity.

netherby reserveA new weather shelter will soon be constructed near to the south side of the existing tennis club building. The

shelter is for use for all the community. A new water fountain and water bottle filler is already in place. A drinking bowl for dogs is also included. More suitable deciduous trees are to be planted this season near the children’s playground area offering necessary shade.

Mitcham reserveReplacement signage is to be undertaken and during the reconstruction of the footbridge the walkway will be covered with a non slip surface with ultimate removal of signage at each end of the bridge.

Sutton GardensRemoval of the old brick fencing surround will commence soon and new white post and rail fencing will be constructed. The perimeter outside path along Taylors Road will also be re levelled and surfaced. Further research is to be undertaken seeking the Sutton family members in order to further consider changing or including reference to Thomas Playford and his family, early settlers of Mitcham. Additional historic research is also underway to determine if this particular area originally held a specific indigenous name.

heritage development Plan amendmentMany residents will have received notification concerning their property

being included in this plan. As is stated in the notification documents, the public consultation period ends on Thursday 17 April and a public meeting for further discussion is to be held on Tuesday May 6 at 6.30 pm at the Civic Centre. The amendment covers the entire electorate but only directly affects approximately 300 residential properties.

community involvement/Flood Mitigation/Brown hill creekAt Full Council on 11 March a petition was received containing 10,083 signatures. The petition was for ‘No Dam in Brown Hill Creek’ and it stated “we the undersigned, hereby PETITION Council to protect the environment and heritage of Brown Hill Creek by opposing the damming of the creek”. On the 25 February at Full Council well over 100 people attended to show support for the eventual Council resolution which requests further investigations into a creek upgrade solution rather than the proposed dam. It was a very important and shining example of how a community can contribute and work alongside their local Council.

Cr Moriarty and I are happy to discuss any particular concern or request or ideas you may have.

BaBBaGe Wardcr david Munro• Smoke, Mirrors and Red Ribbons

TELEPHoNE 0403 161 462

dmunro@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Smoke, Mirrors and red ribbonsIt has taken almost four years to get the financials back into a reasonable state but I am still not convinced we have got there yet. Whilst there are plenty of pretty graphs being bantered around the chamber you have to remember a picture tells a thousand words and the picture I am looking at still doesn’t show much breathing space. Sometimes when you hear and see this stuff you are not sure what is smoke and what is mirrors. So a word of caution, this Council has run in deficit for at least the last 10 years and now that we are heading in the right direction it’s no time to open up the cheque book and spend. A lot of

changes have been made in regard to how Council categorise items of being either capital or operating, its only early days so the long term implications are yet to be seen.

We still need to be cautious of what we spend our money on and driving efficiencies should be the utmost importance in these economic times. We are all aware of Qantas and Holden financial problems so I will maintain ensuring we don’t have a Council that is more interested in running around cutting red ribbons with big fancy scissors posing for a photo on grand opening of major capital investment that we can’t afford. There is a huge list of those not so exciting items like storm water, roads and footpaths that have taken a massive hit over the past 10+ years that really need some money.

As my term is coming to an end it is nice to see that what I set out to achieve and the platform I was elected on has mostly come about. I have been a scrooge when it comes to spending money, have voted on as low a rate as possible

and implemented some things that were worthwhile such as outdoor gym equipment, fortnightly council meetings and improved financial reporting. I have enjoyed the time as an Elected Member especially helping those that have needed help in getting through the red tape or needed something done. The part that is not so good is sitting in the chamber for hours when you think we are going to get something happening only to have another report requested or a master plan or deferred because it is too hard or worried about the backlash. Sometimes tough decisions need to be made and of course not everyone is going to be happy, problem is we are heading into an election in November and I am sure that plays on the mind of some folk.

Anyway this year I am not going to support any rate rise above 3.3%. I have spent almost four years on Council and I think that certain aspects at Council are still out of touch. Of course a rate rise of only 3.3% would be laughed at within the chamber because rates have

always been around 5% but its time to at least make a stance and say enough is enough. There’s an old saying that the more you have the more you spend and I can see this in Council is the case and until the expectation of Council getting their 5% increase year on year stops or at least gets the occasional nip in the butt the spending will continue. It’s not until you are forced into a situation do you really come up with some alternatives, until then you just keeping doing the same old.

So if this is to be last article as Cr Dave Munro I would like to thank those that have supported me and I have genuinely enjoyed helping you in getting things done around Mitcham and especially Babbage Ward. Being a Councillor is rewarding and although I am not the sort of person to get up and talk for a long time within the chamber I know what I set out to do and achieved what I was hoping to. Although surprised it took so long to get there in the end but the wheels sure do move slowly.

pAGe 8 Mitcham Community news April 2014

the Park Wardcr Mark Ward• Freight Trains

• Appropriate Road Funding

TELEPHoNE: 0458 112 358

mward@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Freight trainsA recent fire in the Belair National Park has rekindled the community’s passion to a rail freight diversion. Building a Northern freight train bypass makes a lot of sense. Some positive reasons include a faster freight train service across flatter, straighter land. Double stacking of containers possible leading to better efficiencies. The ability to use the existing line as a passenger train service, bringing people from Mt Barker to Belair and then express to Adelaide (freeing up freeway road congestion), tourism

links via rail from the City all the way to Victor Harbor. Improved amenity and reduced congestion. Safer passage for freight trains. We know that the figures quoted to build the freight train bypass in the previous Federal Government report were grossly inaccurate. A new economic, independent study must be done so that this existing train line, which will be at capacity in only nine years, can be built along a northern route, better catering for the growth of our country and the people of SA.

appropriate road FundingThree years ago I met with the then Minister of planes, trains and automobiles Pat Conlon. I pointed out that a new review of the roads in the hills and connecting plains roads was very overdue, with the existing 2006 Blackwood Belair Road Management Plan is now not meeting the new changing traffic and pedestrian dynamic in the hills. This resulted in community

consultation to seek views of people using these roads and footpaths so that a new plan could be developed. This has taken three years to get to the community and just before a state election and released during caretaker period. Put simply, it is totally unacceptable to make a community wait so long for such an important review.

There are many things about this plan that invoke the need for a few calming red wines (no excuse needed). Firstly the plan does not look wide enough, instead limited to a similar narrow range as the previous plan. Traffic issues do not start and end at the limits of the road management plan. I will be suggesting to the elected State Government that their satellite software is updated so that their Google Maps reflect the current state of the roads up here rather than what they seem to see - a dirt track cutting across a single steam train rail line heading to the Belair Hotel

with the occasional horse and cart rustling dust in the distance.

We are reminded that the current plan is unfunded. These issues have existed for over 20 years. Funding requires decisions of leaders elected to represent their community. Stop telling the community that these suggestions are unfunded and start planning some funding. We are also told that they must be considered against other state priorities. Then make this unacceptable traffic and pedestrian situation one of the priorities. The Blackwood Station is a design catastrophe. Buses crossing an extremely main road, a freight train crossing, an antiquated roundabout only metres away, a main shopping strip, t-junctions with no passing side strips and many more. The state-managed roads in Mitcham need more than just review. They need action. I will be contacting the 2014 Minister for Infrastructure to discuss better progress plans for our roads.

craiGBurn Wardcr nick Greer• A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit

Rock and Roll

• Elections 2014

TELEPHoNE: 0434 330 150

ngreer@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

a little Bit country, a little Bit rock and rollThere is no better place to live, work and raise a family in Australia than in the Mitcham hills and plains suburbs.

There’s nothing quite like the community spirit we have in the Blackwood and Belair townships. It just takes one visit to the Blackwood Christmas Pageant to feel something of our country spirit. But Blackwood and Belair have more than that: it’s definitely a little bit ‘country’ up here - but it’s also a little bit ‘Rock and Roll’. Fancy Burger and the renovated Belair Hotel make that point. These blend into a wonderful and unique sense of community.

What about the stunning reminders of nature and environment available to us - through Belair National Park or the excellent reserves and walking trails

dotted through Mitcham and the hills? Passing through the Sleeps Hill tunnel after work takes us on one side from the hectic city directly into nature on the other. One of my proudest achievements on Council has been to fight for and obtain significant extra funding for the Mitcham Trail Network to help us appreciate and explore our wonderful environment.

Finally, there’s nothing quite like our diverse local shops, excellent schools, low crime rates, and often (but not always) available public transport.

As a business owner running a law firm in the city, I often review my firm’s ‘strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats’. When we do that same sort of review on Mitcham, these strengths are clear.

Some of our threats are clear too: bushfire is a major threat, the hills only recently being saved from possible disaster due to the quick action of our outstanding CFS crews.

Another threat is from ‘urban sprawl’, with Adelaide now sprawling 100km from Sellicks Beach to Gawler. Urban sprawl threatens the Mitcham hills and Hills Face Zone, with development now regularly occurring in unsuitable locations and in areas of intolerably high fire risk. Urban sprawl is largely a

result of historical policies of both State Government and councils opposed to what is known as ‘urban infill’ - that is, higher density development in suitable locations in inner city suburbs.

There are many arguments to support revisiting Council policies that, in my view, still discourage sensible urban infill. Certainly, urban infill is financially and environmentally far more economical than the alternative of urban sprawl. Recent State Government studies put the infrastructure costs to support fringe housing at an average of $80,500, compared with $20,000 for infill development.

Additionally, the Bureau of Statistics tells us that Mitcham had a staggering 21% increase in residents over the age of 85 years between 2001 and 2011. Our senior residents don’t all want to keep living in houses on very large blocks of land, along with the maintenance that goes with that. If given the opportunity to subdivide and downsize, many would like to take that up.

Urban Infill also does wonders for land value per square metre. Information provided through Council has indicated that land in the Marion Council area is now on average more valuable than land in the Mitcham Council area per square metre. This is despite Mitcham being known historically as Adelaide’s

‘blue ribbon’ Council and a result that I put down to Marion’s willingness to support infill development.

Moving on from strengths and threats, opportunities also abound in Mitcham Council. Blackwood and Belair in particular are crying out for consistent master planning, better pedestrian linkages and streetscaping, and for a new and updated community Library. These projects have a capacity to transform Blackwood and Belair into stunning urban townships. I will continue to fight for all these things in Council as the year progresses.

elections 2014Have you ever considered standing for local Council? The next elections will occur late in 2014 and you should start your campaign planning now.

 The Ratepayers Alliance, an organisation that I currently Chair, is always happy to support candidates who share our view of lower rates, reduction of waste, and combating unreasonable ‘Not in My Back Yard’ thinking.

Please feel free to contact me via email or visit the website of the Ratepayers Alliance at www.ratepayers.org.au for more information.

overton Wardcr John SanderSon• Financial

• Stormwater

• Traffic

• Trees

TELEPHoNE: 0402 517 945

jsanderson@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

This is my first article for 2014 and I would like to wish you all a happy and healthy year ahead.

FinancialCouncil has taken quite severe steps to reduce the deficit and this restraint will continue in the 2014/2015 financial year to enable Council to have a small surplus. Long hours of work by staff and Elected Members are continuing to finalise the 2014/2015 Draft Budget and Long Term Financial Plan for final approval in June.

StormwaterLast year I managed to secure funds in the budget for preliminary design works in the estimated $1.4 million stormwater project to commence on the western side of Overton Ward.

Within the 2014/2015 budget further funds have been provided to complete engineering design works and

hopefully commence works to relieve the residents within the Ward of future flooding problems in heavy continued rainfall events.

The water would flow toward the South Road major drain, but this drain is reaching maximum capacity and further discussion is required with Marion Council who shares this drain.

Hopefully these works will be started in the 2014/2015 financial year, as minor flooding has been a problem for some years and progressively increasing.

trafficI reported in December that a B-Double truck had been attempting to drive around the round-about in Winston Avenue, this matter is now with the Police. Further reports have been

forwarded to Council with registration numbers and name on the truck which we requested residents to do - thank you.

Speeding vehicles continue to be most annoying for the safety of residents. This is a Council wide problem where ever you reside and Council continues to monitor the hot spots.

treesCouncil’s summer watering programme has assisted many mature trees within our parks. The recent storms have brought down many branches and regrettably some of the damaged trees need to be replaced. A number of trees have failed and are marked to be cut down and replaced.

Please feel free to contact me on 8277 1884 to discuss a Council matter.

Gault Wardcr StePhen FiSher• Good News on No Dams for

Brownhill Creek

• Keep Rate Rises to a Minimum

• Trees in Streets, Parks and Residents’ Yards

TELEPHoNE: 8272 6116

sfisher@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Good news on no dams for Brownhill creekThe latest reviews by the Brownhill and Keswick Creek Steering Committee have found that the lowest cost solution will remove the need for any dam(s) in the upper reaches of Brownhill Creek. Preliminary studies have also found that a ‘cleaned-up’ creek bed should be able to carry the larger flows estimated for extreme rainfall events, without the need for any ‘bypass culverts’ between Hampton Street and Anzac Highway, other than the already installed bypass which was necessary to

provide sufficient high flow capability of Brownhill Creek under the new two-level rail overpass junction at Goodwood, which was in the Creek’s path. The final consulting engineers’ reports on how much modification to the creeks’ channel are still to arrive, and these will require review and public reporting, but ‘so far, so good’.

keep rate rises to a MinimumIn 2012, your Council recognised that continued operating deficits in our budgets were not sustainable, and the decision was taken to work towards producing an operating surplus in this forthcoming year, 2014 – 2015. This projected surplus is quite small, at $24,000, but is a great improvement on the last years $1.7 million operating deficit. The Council is still finalising the forthcoming budget’s fine details, but has committed to this small surplus.

I am concerned that a group of Mitcham's Councillors, who belong to an entity called ‘Ratepayers Alliance’, (see www.ratepayers.org.au) proclaim their policies of minimising rates. I personally believe they are inconsistent with these policies, (and pledges which they made to their electorates at their successive

elections), by voting to spend significant funds on new proposals. If Council is to run budgetary surpluses, then these decisions must have the effect of raising rates, in order to repay the capital and interest on loans which would need to be taken to pay for these proposals.

trees in Streets, Parks and residents’ yardsThe recent summer in Adelaide has seen extreme weather events, with a record number of days over 40 degrees Celsius, and five days in a row over 42 degrees. This was followed closely by several days of wild east winds which toppled many trees, as well as breaking many branches, throughout Adelaide’s eastern and southern suburbs. The number of broken branches was probably exacerbated by the water stress which many of the trees were under, due to the very drying high temperatures.

The presence of our extensive tree cover in Mitcham is one of its special features, and needs to be retained.

I urge all residents to ensure that your own dwelling’s street tree (or trees) is / are getting sufficient water, particularly if it is a young replacement

tree, which is still establishing a mature root system. By providing additional water to street nature strips, or the root barrier surround which is provided by Council around all new, replacement trees, and even by watering your front garden/lawn prior to forecast days over 35 degrees will maintain good health to any mature trees, and faster growth and hence the earliest shade from your new street trees. The shade they provide has such beneficial cooling effects on very hot days, reduces ambient temperatures and reduces air conditioning requirements for greater long term sustainability. Even mature trees will similarly benefit.

Everyone will remember the period of water restrictions which resulted in the death of many mature trees, such as Silver Birch trees which had successfully survived the previous 30 – 40 years of Adelaide summers. We all need to be aware that in such a dry environment, loss of significant tree cover could increase summer day time temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees, which could lead to a downhill spiral of further tree death, and Adelaide’s environment becoming like the Libyan Desert.

pAGe 9 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Mitcham Community Calendar

COMMuNiTy GROuPS

SPROuTS AT ST COLuMBA’S ANGLiCAN CHuRCH

If you would like to join in this group for pre-schoolers and their carers, come along every Friday at 10.30 am, call 8272 7266, email welcome@columba.org.au or visit St Columba’s Anglican Church, Cross Road, Hawthorn.

BLACKWOOD PROBuS CLuB

Invites men to meet on the first Thursday of every month at 9.30 am in the rear hall of the Masonic Lodge, Main Road, Blackwood. Enjoy guest speakers, outings and an occasional lunch. The Club also has an active golf group that plays on the fourth Thursday of every month. Call 8278 2096, 8178 1142 or write to PO Box 504, Blackwood SA 5051.

WESTBOuRNE PARK COMMuNiTy CLuB

Join the fun at the Westbourne Park Community Club at 390 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park. Enjoy social indoor bowls every Saturday and social bingo each Monday with all activities starting at 1 pm. All welcome call 8271 3290.

MESSy CHuRCH @ WESTBOuRNE PARK uNiTiNG CHuRCH

Invites you to enjoy a relaxed style of church for families of all ages through creativity, hospitality, celebration and fun on Saturday 17 May from 5 pm to 7.30 pm at Westbourne Park Uniting Church, 27 Sussex Terrace, Hawthorn. Donation $5 per family. Email wpuc@internode.on.net or visit www.wpuc.org.au or call 8271 7066.

MiTCHAM KiWANiS

Meet on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Marion Sports Centre, Sturt Road, Marion. Call 8374 3694.

MiTCHAM ViLLAGE uNiTiNG CHuRCH

At 103 Princes Road, Mitcham invite all men to ‘Men at the Centre’ for mixed activities, every third Tuesday of the month in the church. Begin with shared pizza at 6.30 pm for $6. Call 0438 705 460. The Mitcham Village uniting Friendship Group meets every Wednesday of school term in Tyler Hall from 9.30 am to 11.30 am for friendship and craft activities. All welcome. $2 morning tea. ye Olde Village Shoppe and Meeting Place is open each Saturday from 9.30 am to 1 pm. Donations of clean saleable goods appreciated. Call 8278 8259.

ADELAiDE-MiTCHAM PROSTATE CANCER SuPPORT GROuP

Come along to discuss health issues on Thursday 22 May at 7 pm at the Colonel Light Gardens RSL Club, 4 Prince George Parade, Colonel Light Gardens. Listen to guest speaker Rosalie Donhardt – Registered Nurse from Independent Living Centre and Continence Resource Information Centre. She will be speaking on Disability Aids and Continence issues. Call 8277 2138 or visit www.psamitcham.org.

NEiGHBOuRHOOD WATCH GLENALTA

Meets four times a year on a Tuesday at 7.30 pm at Our Lady of the Way Church Cottage, corner Main Road and Laffers Road, Glenalta. Guest speakers include road safety, bushfire safety, dealing with hearing problems, scams, pitfalls to avoid in drawing up a will, revegetating Minnow Creek, and possible impacts of climate change. Visit www.watchsa.com.au

GET FiT/SOCiAL ACTiViTiES

LAWN BOWLS

Enjoy social lawn bowls at the Clarence Gardens Bowling Club, Winona Avenue, Clarence Gardens on Wednesday or Saturday 12.30 pm, $6 to play (includes afternoon tea and prizes), neat casual dress, flat soled shoes. Loan bowls available and coaching if required. Call 0424 483 170 or email cgbc@bigpond.com

BuTTERFLiES OF WAiTE

The Friends of the Waite Conservation Reserve invite you to learn about local butterflies on Wednesday May 14 at 7.30 pm at Urrbrae House on the Waite Campus of the University of Adelaide. Mike Moore will share his knowledge about butterflies and their lifecycle. Call 8313 7405 or email helenpryor10@yahoo.com.au

EDWARDSTOWN BAPTiST COMMuNiTy CENTRE

Are you over 50? Want to meet some new people? Come along to the Friendship Club and enjoy table tennis, eight ball, carpet bowls, card and board games and day trips every Tuesday 10 am to 2 pm. Cost is $2. Maybe you fancy yourself as crafty? Bring your project and join an existing knitting, embroidery, quilting or card-making to Café Craft each Thursday from 9.30 am to 12 noon at the Edwardstown Baptist Church Community Centre. Cost is $3. Call 8276 1040.

EDWARDSTOWN BAPTiST CHuRCH

Come along and have some fun while making lasting friendships at the Little Royals Playgroup every Tuesday from 9.30 am to 11 am during school terms at. Cost is $3. Call 8276 1040.

GREy BOx COMMuNiTy GROuP

Come and join the Grey Box Community Group and grow indigenous understory plants in your backyard to help protect, educate, care and restore threatened eucalypt grassy woodland. For more information visit www.greyboxcommunity.org

COMMuNiTy EVENTS

LiFE@DEATH

Gallery One presents 'life@death’ an art exhibition about Letting Go until Friday 25 April, Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 4.30 pm. The exhibition explores the relationship between life and death which is problematic and uncomfortable – generally avoided or hidden away. Galley One is located at 1 Torrens Street, Mitcham.

HiLLS CHORAL SOCiETy

Enjoy a wonderful afternoon of classical music ‘The German Romantics’ conducted by Lesley Lewis featuring harpsichordist John Drake on Sunday 18 May at 2.30 pm at St Columba’s Church on corner of Cross Road and Rosevear Avenue, Hawthorn. A sumptuous afternoon tea is included. Tickets $20 and $15 concession and family ticket $40. To book call 8227 2239 or 8278 2004.

SENiORS iN HARMONy

FREE concerts are held on the first Tuesday of every month enjoy the next performance on 6 May by the Woodville Choir from 1.30 pm to 3.15 pm at the Mitcham Cultural Village, Institute Hall, 103 Princes Road, Mitcham. Free admission which includes afternoon tea. Gold coin donation. Email mitcham@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au or call 8372 8262.

ANNuAL CAMELLiA SHOW

Camellias South Australia Inc will hold their Camellia Show at Carrick Hill, 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield on Saturday 9 August from 12 noon to 4.30 pm and Sunday 10 August from 10 am to 4.30 pm. Enjoy countless blooms on display and quality plants for sale. Free Admission. Call 8295 6563.

MARRiAGE COuRSE

Is a great opportunity to get out for a ‘date night with a difference’, and is designed for all couples, whether your relationship is great or there are areas you need to work on. The seven week course provides helpful and practical tools as well as plenty of laughs along the way. There is no group work whatsoever - you will be served coffee/tea and delicious desserts at a romantic table for two. The next course will be held starting Thursday 22 May at the CoroUniting Church, 415 Main Road, Coromandel Valley. Cost $100 per couple. Call 0438 500 375 or visit corouniting.org

EASTER SERViCES

ViLLAGE CHuRCH - MELROSE PARK

Edwardstown Primary School

•Easter Sunday 10.30 am

Visit thevillage.org.au or call 8370 3256.

BLACKWOOD HiLLS BAPTiST CHuRCH

72 Coromandel Parade, Blackwood

•Good Friday 18 April Service of Reflection 10 am

•Easter Sunday 20 April 10 am and 7 pm

Call 8370 0333 or visit bhbc.org.au

HAWTHORN uNiTiNG CHuRCH

13 Hampton Street, Hawthorn

•Good Friday 9.30 am - Hot Cross buns following service.

•Sunday Easter Day 10.30 am Holy Communion.

Call 8271 7165

EDWARDSTOWN BAPTiST CHuRCH

Cnr Rothesay Avenue and Dorene Street, St Marys

•Easter Production 13 April 6 pm

•Good Friday Service 18 April 9 am

•Easter Sunday Service 20 April 10 am

Call 8276 1040

MiTCHAM ANGLiCAN PARiSH

•Wednesday 16 April 7.15 pm Holy Eucharist

•Maundy Thursday 17 April 7.30 pm Holy Eucharist including Washing of Feet, Stripping of the Alter and the Watch

•Good Friday 18 April 10 am Good Friday Liturgy

•Holy Saturday 19 April 7.30 pm Vigil Eucharist and Lighting of the New Fire

•Easter Day 10 April 8 am and 10 am Holy Eucharist

Steph Keys, Jay Weatherill, Pauline Herring and Michael Picton with the Clarence Gardens Knights.

Clarence Gardens Bowling Club Receives Funding for Synthetic GreenClarence Gardens Bowling Club has received funding from the State Government of $97,000 and the City of Mitcham of $30,000 to assist with the installation of a synthetic green.

A synthetic green will save the Club approximately $80,000 over 10 years through reduced watering as well as providing a greater green availability throughout the year for members.

The Club is now seeking donations and sponsorship from the community and local businesses to assist with the project. For further information please call 8293 2134.

Photo courtesy Praktyczny Przewodnik

pAGe 10 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Coromandel Valley and Districts National Trust

Guided WalksEnjoy a walk around the Coromandel Valley District.

Date: 20 May – Coromandel Valley North

Time: 1 pm

Location: Frank Smith Park

Date: 21 May – Coromandel Valley South

Time: 1 pm

Location: Weymouth Oval

Cost: $15. Afternoon tea included

Spotlight on HistoryMaking History Live. On display will be recently printed stories, digital library, and re-mastered photos, all giving life to our history.

Date: 30 May

Time: 7 pm – 10 pm

Location: Coromandel Community Centre 442 Main Road, Coromandel Valley

Guided Bus Tours

Buildings and Sites of Significance.

Date: 7 May

Time: 10 am – 4 pm

Cost: $28. Lunch included.

Unlock the stories of a community’s development.

Date: 25 May

Time: 10 am – 4 pm

Cost: $28. Lunch included.

Bookings essential.

Open DayFind out what is happening around Winns Road and also help the Coromandel Valley CFS celebrate its 75th anniversary.

Date: 4 May

Time: 10 am – 4 pm

Location: 360 Main Road, Coromandel Valley

Displays

Winns Bakehouse Museum

Explore the fascinating history of this bakehouse (1878 – 1940), and the surrounding precinct. A special exhibition about early school days is sure to bring back memories and raise questions. Talk with attendants about the displays and early life in the Valley. The surrounds and display offer family interest and activity with close access to the walking paths along the River Sturt.

Gamble Cottage and Garden

A glimpse into early living and the pleasure of cottage garden surrounds. Enjoy a display of old toys and games and recently digitised old photos, from around the district. The garden too offers a unique look at heritage plantings.

Date: 18 May

Time: 2 pm – 4 pm

To book or for more information visit http://coroalive.org.au or call 0474 066 776.

Mitcham Historical Society

Hidden ValleysThe valleys abound in interesting and fascinating local history. Please wear good strong walking shoes or boots and bring a drink and a hat.

Date: 11 and 17 May

Time: 1.30 pm

Location: Meet at the Manure Pits, Brownhill Creek Road

Bookings essential. To book email irvineth@ozemail.com.au or call 8272 9707.

Twilight Walk: Coromandel ValleyJoin Trevor and David Conlon from the Coromandel Valley and Districts National Trust Branch for a guided tour through the historic Coromandel Valley area where you will be delighted by many local heritage buildings, including the historic Gamble Cottage where we will conclude with tea/coffee and refreshments.

Date: 17 May

Time: 6 pm to 8 pm

Location: Meet at Winns Bakehouse Museum, Winns Road, Coromandel Valley.

Cost: $5 plus a gold coin donation

Bookings essential. To book email Julie.a.hogan@gmail.com or call 0430 472 262.

Celebrating History in the Community

Above top: The c.1880 stop valve approximately 80m downstream from the brick well of the Mitcham Water Works.

Above bottom: Steve Antonowicz and Jason Golding from SA Water attempting to turn the valve key.

Turning off the Water to conserve the Mitcham Water WorksIn February water flowing from the 135 year-old Mitcham Water Works was turned off for the first time since the water works were decommissioned in 1930.

The Mitcham Water Works, located in Ellison Gully on private property, is one of several historic E&WS sites and is a current nomination for local heritage listing on Council’s Heritage Development Plan Amendment.

SA Water staff, Steve Antonowicz and Jason Golding identified the appropriate valve key and worked to close the outlet valve of the 135 year old brick well in order to allow the well to fill and reduce the uneven hydrostatic pressure on the side walls of the brick well.

Unfortunately the old rusted valve in the valve pit would not turn and the

water was eventually turned off at a stop valve about 80m downstream.

The location of the Mitcham Water Works was rediscovered on private land in 2002 by David Wagner (Department, Environment and Health), Maggy Ragless (City of Mitcham’s Local History Officer) and Dr Pam Smith (Flinders University). The water works and associated pipeline have been documented and excavated with the support of the land owner. The closing of the outlet valve is a part of a proposed conservation plan for the site.

Earth Hour - Lights out for the ReefThe City of Mitcham celebrated Earth Hour on Saturday 29 March at 8.30 pm by switching the lights off at the Civic Centre.

Earth Hour was founded by WWF in Sydney in 2007 and is now embraced by 7001 cities and 152 nations across the globe. This year focused on one of the world’s most iconic and threatened places: Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

We turned lights out to make a stand for our reef, did you?

For more information visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

'Gamble Cottage' 1902 (above) and present (below).

pAGe 11 Mitcham Community news April 2014

Come and Get your Free Showbag and Win!Need a hand saving money around the home? Want to attract wildlife to your garden? Would you like to make some small changes to help the environment or do you just need an energy efficient globe to light up your life?

Come into the City of Mitcham Civic Centre for your FREE sustainable showbag!

The sustainable showbag contains an energy efficient light globe (while stocks last), your 2014-2015 kerbside waste calendar, a food scraps recycling sample kit, information on how to create a low fire risk garden, local native seeds, a heating and cooling thermometer, monthly gardening tips, shower timer, a pocket guide to environmentally friendly gardens and

children’s books and games (on request) and much more!

You will also get the opportunity to win one of five $20 vouchers for Belair Nursery which will in turn help support the growing and promotion of more native plants.

Competition will be drawn on 26 May at 2 pm in the Council Chambers and winners will be notified the following day. Winners will be published in the August edition of the Mitcham Community News.

For more information call Council’s Environmental Sustainability Officer on 8372 8888.

Clean Up Australia DayThank you to everyone who participated in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday March 2.

The day was a huge success with individuals, community groups and schools working together to clean up 22 sites in the Mitcham Council area.

Volunteers collected general litter and a lot of cigarette butts. They also uncovered illegally dumped rubbish including TVs, carpet and a rusted shopping trolley.

Your contribution has ensured a cleaner environment for all to enjoy and your efforts are much appreciated.

What’s New in Waste Management?Council’s new domestic waste collection trucks have arrived at Council following a waste collection service review.

Four new trucks, capable of holding 10 tonnes of rubbish, with their new green look are collecting domestic waste throughout Mitcham. Each truck is fitted with bin scales and cameras to ensure prohibited materials such as concrete, dirt, bricks and hazardous materials are not put into the domestic waste bin.

Before replacing the existing trucks Council carried out an extensive review of the domestic waste collection service to ensure ratepayers receive the most efficient and cost effective service.

The review considered the cost of the domestic waste collection service, our service to ratepayers and areas for improvement.

The waste collection service is highly regarded by our community with consistently high levels of resident satisfaction in Council’s annual residents survey. This is attributed to the ongoing commitment of our drivers to provide assistance to

residents physically unable to take their bins out to the street and carry out bin repairs proactively and is seen as a valuable addition to the in-house service.

With a budget of $2.64m the structure of the domestic waste service was reviewed. Costs associated with collecting and disposing of domestic waste were analysed to identify areas to improve. These improvements will optimise service delivery and reduce costs ensuring the service will remain in-house.

Council will focus on community education to reduce the 12,500 tonnes of waste we send to landfill each year. The latest Kerbside Waste and Recycling Calendar, which is now available, contains plenty of information on how to reduce what goes into your waste bin and some great tips for your recycling and green organics bins. Keep reading the Mitcham Community News as there is more to come!

Mitcham Planning for Climate ChangeA series of community workshops held in the southern Adelaide region will help develop a Climate Change Adaption Action Plan.

The Resilient South Project invited representatives of community organisations, academics and government staff to three workshops in February. The workshops focused on how vulnerable different parts of our region are to the potential climatic conditions of 2070 including: increased frequency of heat waves, bushfire and intense storms.

The workshops considered the region’s economy, infrastructure, natural environment and social and community indicators identifying that people aged over 65 are at risk and are more sensitive to the impacts of a changing climate because of mobility issues, pre-existing illness and poor health. These outcomes will help the Resilient South Project

develop a Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan for the southern Adelaide region which will help address the issues we face around a changing climate.

The Resilient South Project is a collaboration between the Cities of Mitcham, Holdfast Bay, Marion, and Onkaparinga and is supported by the State and Australian Governments.

For more information, please visit www.resilientsouth.com or call the Resilient South Project Coordinator on 8384 0532.

For further information on the kerbside waste and recycling collection service please contact Council on 8372 8888 or visit www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

pAGe 12 Mitcham Community news April 2014