Free ride on public transport this Christmas

Google Reader (1): "Free ride on public transport this Christmas
by michaelc@webplace.com.au (Befekir Kebede)
Train, tram, coach and bus services across Victoria will be free from first to last service on Christmas Day, Tuesday 25 December, Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder said today.

“Public transport is the safe and easy way to visit family and friends for Christmas celebrations,” Mr Mulder said."

'via Blog this'

Country cook takes title - Food & Dining - Lifestyle - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Country cook takes title - Food & Dining - Lifestyle - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: "A COLDSTEAM chef who uses organic produce straight from the garden has been named Australia's Country Chef of Year.

Gary Cooper, from restaurant Bella Vedere, was named the best regional chef by Country Style magazine."

'via Blog this'

HAVE YOUR SAY: Renewed call for VicForests in Yarra Glen comments - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

HAVE YOUR SAY: Renewed call for VicForests in Yarra Glen comments - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader:

"Unbelievably, Samantha Dunn is now putting forward a motion to rescind the motion passed on 11/12 /2012. This will take place at the first 2013 meeting.What is wrong with letting the council get on with council business, and get out of political statements"

'via Blog this'

Federal Labor urges Victoria to tax the family home

 Land tax would be levied on the family home under a proposal put forward by the Gillard Labor Government today.

Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan used a meeting of state and federal treasurers in Canberra to dodge responsibility for national tax reform, instead calling on states to abolish stamp duty, funded by increases in land tax."


Comment:  Is she serious?

I Heard It On The Grape Vine

Rumour:

IGA COLDSTREAM MAY HAVE CHANGED HANDS.

Warning on bogus CFA salesman - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Warning on bogus CFA salesman - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: "THE CFA is warning of the reappearance of a door-to-door salesman selling fire extinguishers and fire blankets who is falsely posing as a representive of CFA.

CFA spokeswoman Amy Schildberger said the man had been active since February this year in Boronia, Lysterfield, the Dandenong Ranges and, in recent days, Malvern.

She said the CFA did not sell products or fundraise door to door.

"Anyone approached by people in this manner claiming to be from CFA should decline the offer and immediately call Consumer Affairs,'' Ms Schildberger said.

"Anyone who feels threatened or intimidated should call police.''

The CFA also warns that people offering to paint numbers on gutters to help emergency services locate an address is not a practice endorsed or recommended by the CFA.

Anyone with information should contact Victorian Consumer Affairs hotline on 1300 558 181 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000."

'via Blog this'

Weather Station History | Weather Underground COLDSTREAM

Check the local weather here.

Coalition to reopen timber harvest at Mount Cole

 "The Victorian Coalition Government will allow limited commercial timber harvesting in the Mount Cole and Pyrenees Ranges state forest for the first time since 2004 following a sensible proposal from the local community.

Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh said the re-entry to harvesting at Mount Cole would be limited to salvage and silvicultural harvesting.

“A conservative one-year, 600 cubic metre licence for the removal of storm-affected timber will be taken up by local Chute sawmill Pyrenees Timber,” Mr Walsh said."

'via Blog this'

taken from FaceBook

We Support the Timber Industry - Our Sustainable Resource.

Friends of Forestry Media Release
12th December, 2012
Yarra Ranges Dumps Paper Pledge

The Yarra Ranges Council, in a stunning reversal of policy, last night dumped its direct involvement with the Wilderness Society's "Ethical Paper Pledge.”

Friends of Forestry (FoF) President, Brett Robin, said it was a huge victory for the sustainable timber industry, but moreover a victory for common sense and community feeling.

"FoF congratulates new Mayor Jim Child, and his dynamic new team of progressive, genuine, straight-thinking Councillors.

"Unlike the conspiracy theories being yelled by those opposed to the sustainable timber industry, there were no political agendas with the new Councillors, they were simply proving they make decisions on behalf of the majority of their community, treat all industries equally and will not be threatened," he said.

"This is an inspirational victory for our hundred year old sustainable timber industry that has been 'battered from pillar to post' by untrue green ideology for far too long.

"FoF encourages all community members to learn more about the local timber industry and our world-class forestry management practices, which not only provides direct and indirect jobs but ensures our forests are well managed so future generations can continue to enjoy their beauty and outstanding timber products," he said.

Yarra Ranges Council has long held a reputation as a "green" Council, and was one of only two councils in Australia to support the Wilderness Society driven 'Ethical Paper Pledge.’

Last night's decision now gives the 'green light' to Vicforests to move their Head office to the Yarra Valley, a move that will create close on 70 new jobs.

“The new Shire of Yarra Ranges last night proved they are still green but they also will not be dictated or bullied to by a minority and that they are progressive and believe in building strong social and economic communities within the Shire.”

“FoF congratulates members and councillors who were faced with typical unruly, rude and aggressive behaviour from the opponents to the timber industry who in the face of defeat yelled abuse and were disruptive and disrespectful to all speakers”.

“For the first time in a long time, Friends of Forestry members can say they are proud of the Shire of Yarra Ranges and look forward to helping build strong vibrant communities as they have done for 100 years”, concluded Mr Robin.

Like ·  · Share · 283 · 3 hours ago · 

Winery wins in the wind | Upper Yarra Mail | Star News Group Local community news

Winery wins in the wind | Upper Yarra Mail | Star News Group Local community news: "
COLDSTREAM Hills Winery has taken out two prizes at the Dan Murphy’s National Wine Show of Australia in November."

'via Blog this'

Bid for pledge on jobs deal | Ranges Trader Mail | Star News Group Local community news

Bid for pledge on jobs deal | Ranges Trader Mail | Star News Group Local community news:

Comment:  The motion PASSED (five for, four against)

A Message from Cr Fiona McAllitser

Hi Everyone,

As you are probably aware we are in the process of developing our 4 year Council Plan. This document is critical in setting the tone, direction and priorities for the next 4 years. 

The process is starting with a survey which came out in Shirewide but to date only 1000 across the entire municipality have completed it. 

Could you please send this email and the link to as many people as  you know and ask them to logon and complete the survey by the end of the week?

 The more voices we have the better the plan will be.

http://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Reports_Policies/Council_Plan

Thanks!

Kind regards,
Fiona

Cr Fiona McAllister
Yarra Ranges Council - Ryrie Ward

HAVE YOUR SAY: Lilydale's new mini suburb - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

HAVE YOUR SAY: Lilydale's new mini suburb - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: "THERE are plans for a new mini suburb in Lilydale, with up to 4000 new homes set to be built in a massive multi-million dollar development in the town.

Yarra Ranges Council released information last week, stating 4000 new dwellings were proposed for the Sibelco Quarry site."

'via Blog this'

UPPER YARRA MAIL

The mail can now be read online and has a great new modern format.

There is a link on the GOOD LINKS section in the right column.

http://upperyarra.starcommunity.com.au/

Worth a click!

Hot conditions for Chirnside Park orchard fire - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Hot conditions for Chirnside Park orchard fire - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: "Crews were called to a fire in a former orchard in Coldstream West Rd at 12.45pm, which had spread into surrounding paddocks."

'via Blog this'

Speeding driver nabbed in Vic road blitz | Perth Now

Speeding driver nabbed in Vic road blitz | Perth Now: "A MELBOURNE man has been caught driving almost double the speed limit as part of a Victoria's Summer Stay road safety blitz.

Police detected the man travelling at 113km/h in a 60km/h zone in Coldstream in Melbourne's outer east just after 9pm (AEST) on Wednesday."

'via Blog this'

All fired up! Work starts on new MFB training centre

"All fired up! Work starts on new MFB training centre
by info@webplace.com.au (Administrator)
Work is officially under way on Victoria’s new $109 million emergency services training centre in Craigieburn, Minister for Major Projects Denis Napthine announced today."


Comment: our FSL put to good use.

Solid results for timber industry audit

"The Victorian Coalition Government has released the findings of three independent audits of commercial timber harvesting in Victoria’s State forests. The audits show a very high level of compliance with the regulatory framework."

Averages\Extremes for the month of November 2012

Average temperature     = 16.9°C

November average        = 17.2°C

Average humidity        = 70%

Average dewpoint        = 10.7°C

Average barometer       = 1014.4 hPa

Average windspeed       = 2.5 km/h

Average gustspeed       = 5.0 km/h

Average direction       = 156° (SSE)

Rainfall for month      = 55.8 mm

Coldstream Average      = 73.0 mm

Rainfall for year       = 843.8 mm

Maximum rain per minute = 0.8 mm on day 27 at time 10:07

Maximum temperature     = 39.6°C on day 29 at time 16:53

Minimum temperature     = 4.5°C on day 11 at time 05:53

Maximum humidity        = 98% on day 24 at time 07:00

Minimum humidity        = 20% on day 24 at time 16:19

Maximum dewpoint        = 21.6°C on day 30 at time 10:11

Minimum dewpoint        = 3.0°C on day 13 at time 10:36

Maximum pressure        = 1025.7 hPa on day 10 at time 08:50

Minimum pressure        = 1003.1 hPa on day 29 at time 18:45

Maximum windspeed       = 18.5 kmh from 180°( S ) on day 12 at time 14:28

Maximum gust speed      = 44.4 km/h from 203°(SSW) on day 12 at time 13:22

Maximum heat index      = 42.5°C on day 29 at time 16:23

Avg daily max temp :24.4°C

Avg daily min temp :9.9°C

Total windrun = 1807.8km

-----------------------------------

Daily rain totals

-----------------------------------

  00.2 mm  on day 2

  15.4 mm  on day 3

  05.8 mm  on day 4

  00.8 mm  on day 8

  07.2 mm  on day 9

  02.2 mm  on day 10

  08.0 mm  on day 12

  02.0 mm  on day 20

  00.8 mm  on day 21

  05.8 mm  on day 29

  07.4 mm  on day 30

Regards,

Robert Bethell

Compost trials creating fertile ground for new markets to grow

"“The new organics recycling facility being developed at Bulla, north of Melbourne, will take about 80,000 tonnes of food and garden waste from 11 councils in Melbourne's north and process it into valuable compost,” Mr Smith said.

The tender process is also underway for another facility to service eight councils in the south east region. The procurement process involves a feasibility study to determine a suitable location.

Mr Smith said the Mallee trial was one of several Sustainability Victoria was considering to demonstrate the benefits of using compost in a variety of situations."

'via Blog this'

COMMENT:  I hope they have learnt from our experience at Coldstream

Healesville trio lucky to be alive - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Healesville trio lucky to be alive - Emergency Services - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader:

"Ali Prior and children Will, 7, and Evie, 2, were lucky to survive a horror crash in Coldstream."

'via Blog this'

Cash to help debate Melbourne's future - Government - News - Maribyrnong Leader

Cash to help debate Melbourne's future - Government - News - Maribyrnong Leader:

"COMMUNITY groups will get financial help to hold consultation events to discuss a plan for Melbourne's future.

Planning Minister Matthew Guy yesterday spoke to community groups and concerned residents about the State Government’s Metropolitan Planning Strategy discussion paper.

The event was organised by community group Planning Backlash."

'via Blog this'

Coldstream Cfa

☆ ★ ☆ SUNDAY 25TH NOVEMBER ~ OPEN DAY !! ☆ ★ ☆

It would be wonderful if the community could support the CFA
on Sunday 25th, and show their appreciation to to all the "volunteers" 
that dedicate their time and lives to the Coldstream Community. 

Bring the family along, take a pic with  the fire trucks (or the firemen lol), and have a chat with members etc. 

Its a great opportunity if your keen on joining the brigade. Hope to see you there!

RECENT COMMENTS

Recent comments used to be displayed on the LHS.  For some reason this widget has stopped working.

Please e mail me comments in future and i will add them.

Regards

Mario Galteri
mariogalteri@gmail.com

New Coffee Shop

Support your local coffee shop and have a pizza

Tecoma McDonald's: Council meeting hijacked | Maroondah Weekly - Yarra Ranges Weekly

Tecoma McDonald's: Council meeting hijacked | Maroondah Weekly - Yarra Ranges Weekly:

 "About 50 protesters took to their feet and began shouting at members of the council for voting against a Supreme Court appeal, causing the meeting to be adjourned for 15 minutes."

Councillor Samantha Dunn had moved an urgent motion calling on the council to reconsider funding an  appeal to stop the controversial development. It is the second time she has tried to get such a motion through.

To read the full story click on the TITLE above.

'via Blog this'

Tough new consumer protections to support abolition of fire services levy - Premier of Victoria

Tough new consumer protections to support abolition of fire services levy - Premier of Victoria:

 "The Victorian Coalition Government has introduced legislation to establish the Fire Services Levy Monitor (the Monitor) and to strengthen consumer protections in the transition to the new and fairer property based system.

Consumer Affairs Minister Michael O’Brien said that a key component of the new consumer protections would be penalties of up to $10 million for a body corporate and $500,000 for an individual, against price exploitation, false representation and misleading and deceptive conduct.

The Monitor will oversee the transition to a new property-based levy and provide advice and guidance to consumers and the insurance industry to make certain that insurers genuinely phase out the existing insurance based levy."

Read more by clicking the title

COMMENT:  This is a good move

'via Blog this'

.: Free TV and computer recycling :.

.: Free TV and computer recycling :.:

"Free TV and computer recycling
Media Release Date:29 October 2012
Next time you upgrade your home computer or invest in a new LCD, spare a thought for what happens to the old technology.

Instead of adding to landfill or collecting a pile of old electronics at home, Yarra Ranges residents can now recycle them for free.

Director Environment and Engineering Mark Varmalis said Coldstream Transfer Station was now participating in the National TV and Computer Recycling Scheme.

“Residents can bring their old TVs & computer equipment to the Ingram Rd transfer station free of charge,” Mr Varmalis said.

“This is a fantastic way to dispose of unwanted e-waste without adding to landfill – and it costs you nothing more than a short drive to Coldstream.”

The equipment will then be taken off-site and recycled.

Items accepted free of charge at Coldstream include;

All televisions including the old CRT types
Laptops, notebooks and palmtops
Desktop computers
Printers
Multi function devices that print, copy, scan and fax
Cards, motherboards
Web cameras
CD drives
DVD drives
Hard drives
Floppy drives
Mouse and trackball
Scanners
Keyboards
Joysticks and gamepads"

'via Blog this'

What issue should the new Yarra Ranges Council prioritise? - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

What issue should the new Yarra Ranges Council prioritise? - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: 

My published comment:


"The previous council refused to change the UGB in the Shire especially around Coldstream. Our group COLDSTREAM 2020 made great inroads into changing the UGB around Coldstream and was supported by an official survey conducted by Jeanette McRae and the Shire, a survey by Christine Fyffe MP and our own survey. 

I am hoping that this council will see the many benefits of expanding Coldstream with the Post office as its new centre."

'via Blog this'

Anger over Great Ocean Road rezonings - State News - Agribusiness and General - General - Stock & Land

Anger over Great Ocean Road rezonings - State News - Agribusiness and General - General - Stock & Land: 

"PLANNING Minister Matthew Guy has approved the rezoning of more than a dozen parcels of farming and coastal land along the Great Ocean Road that will be targeted for high-end resorts and hotels."

Comment:  Let's hope Coldstream is next for a rezoning.

'via Blog this'

HAVE YOUR SAY: RACV says how to fix Yarra Ranges roads - Transport & Traffic - News - Free Press Leader

HAVE YOUR SAY: RACV says how to fix Yarra Ranges roads - Transport & Traffic - News - Free Press Leader: 

"ROAD upgrades and better bus services are vital to keep the Yarra Ranges moving.

The RACV has identified seven vital infrastructure projects, costing more than $80 million, urgently needed to help traffic flow.

The wish-list of upgrades include an estimated $42.45 million upgrade of York Rd between Swansea and Monbulk roads and the construction of a Lilydale bypass.

Other projects in the transport blueprint include:

* upgrading Wellington Rd between Lysterfield and Belgrave-Hallam roads;

* duplicating the Maroondah Highway between the Warburton and Melba highways;"

see more online

Maroondah Highway, Coldstream	Ingram Road	Intersection Signals - heavy vehicles and large volumes of traffic
Maroondah Highway, Coldstream	Killara Road / Station Street	Intersection signals
Maroondah Highway, Coldstream *	Warburton Highway to Melba Highway	Duplication of existing road

Comment: Read the full article by clicking the link above.


'via Blog this'

Major summer works program for Regional Rail Link - Premier of Victoria

Major summer works program for Regional Rail Link - Premier of Victoria:

 "Major Regional Rail Link construction works including new tracks, new signals and tunnel strengthening will be carried out over the quieter summer holiday period, Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder said today."

Mr Mulder said works to be undertaken between Footscray and Sunshine included:

• bridge modifications in Footscray and West Melbourne;
• track installation and realignment in Footscray and West Melbourne;
• station upgrade works at Sunshine, West Footscray and Footscray railway stations;
• continued work to remove two level crossings at Anderson Road, Sunshine;
• tunnel strengthening works to support the Dudley Street bridge structure;
• earthworks in Tottenham, Footscray and North Melbourne;
• replacement of track and ballast in Sunshine;
• rail signal replacements at South Kensington;
• service relocation in Sunshine; and
• site investigations.

Comment:  I hope we might see COLDSTREAM STATION on this list before the year 2020!

'via Blog this'

Melbourne, let’s talk about the future - Premier of Victoria

Melbourne, let’s talk about the future - Premier of Victoria:

"Melbourne, let’s talk about the future"

Comment: COLDSTREAM is part of this discussion.  Please add your voice.

'via Blog this'

.: Cr Maria McCarthy, Billanook Ward :.

.: Cr Maria McCarthy, Billanook Ward :.: "Cr Maria McCarthy, Billanook Ward
After raising a family while running a small business, I value the ethic of hard work. I have served on various local committees including Yarra Ranges Ratepayers Association, Melba Support Services, Yarra Valley Italian Cultural Group, Mt Evelyn Street Festival, Friends of Lillydale Museum Trust, Lilydale Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Billanook Ward covers Mt Evelyn and part of Lilydale"

'via Blog this'

.: Cr Andy Witlox, Chirnside Ward :.

.: Cr Andy Witlox, Chirnside Ward :.:

"Cr Andy Witlox, Chirnside Ward
I’ve grown up in the Yarra Ranges and enjoy cycling and playing golf. I’m raising a young family and know what it’s like to struggle with a big mortgage. I want to focus on core services, roads, footpaths, recreational parks and protecting our environment.

Chirnside Ward covers: Chirnside Park and part Mooroolbark"

'via Blog this'

.: Deputy Mayor Jason Callanan, Chandler Ward :.

.: Deputy Mayor Jason Callanan, Chandler Ward :.:

 "Deputy Mayor Jason Callanan, Chandler Ward
As a paramedic, I see myself as a person who is passionate about helping people. I am committed and focused on community safety, education and sustainability. I want to see safer roads, and sustainable growth balanced with the great and beautiful environment. I would encourage more tourism and ensure our farmers are supported.

Chandler Ward covers: Silvan, Kalorama, Seville, Wandin, Monbulk and Macclesfield"


'via Blog this'

Site map - Yarra Ranges Council area

Site map - Yarra Ranges Council area:

'via Blog this'

Weed identification app puts control in the palm of your hand - Premier of Victoria

Weed identification app puts control in the palm of your hand - Premier of Victoria: "Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith and Member for Seymour Cindy McLeish today launched a new Weeds of Murrindindi iPhone and iPad application to help tackle the spread of environmental weeds following the Black Saturday bushfires.

Mr Smith said the free app would be online today, providing the community with important information on weed identification and control."

'via Blog this'

From council critic to Yarra Ranges Mayor - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

From council critic to Yarra Ranges Mayor - Council - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader:

"A FORMER fierce critic of Yarra Ranges Council is now its new mayor."

'via Blog this'

New face elected Yarra Ranges mayor | Maroondah Weekly - Yarra Ranges Weekly

New face elected Yarra Ranges mayor | Maroondah Weekly - Yarra Ranges Weekly: "NEW councillor Jim Child has been elected Yarra Ranges mayor for the next year.

All five new councillors — including Child himself — voted for the O’Shannassy ward councillor, in what appears to be a divide between the old and new faces at the shire offices.

Three councillors — Samantha Dunn, Noel Cliff and Child — were nominated for the mayorship last night , however Cr Dunn and Cr Cliff received only two votes each in the nine-seat council.

Cr Child said one of his main aims was to ensure higher education is maintained at the Swinburne Lilydale campus.

He said as a retiree he was ready for the role as mayor, and expected it to be a learning curve.

In his first mayoral response, Child rubbished an article published in the Weekly that made reference of a divide between the returning councillors and new councillors, and said ‘‘our team will be united’’. "

'via Blog this'

NEW SHIRE MAYOR

Jim Childs has been elected Mayor 
and 
Jason Callanan Deputy Mayor. 

Congratulations to both of them.

Regards and good luck

Mario Galteri

Weather statistics for Coldstream Estate weather station

   Averages\Extremes for the month of October 2012 in Coldstream

 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Average temperature     = 13.8°C

Average humidity        = 72%

Average dewpoint        = 8.0°C

Average barometer       = 1016.9 hPa

Average windspeed       = 2.2 km/h

Average gustspeed       = 4.5 km/h

Average direction       = 295° (WNW)

Rainfall for month      = 48.6 mm

Coldstream Average      = 77 mm

Rainfall for year       = 788.0 mm

Average YTD             = 646 mm

Maximum rain per minute = 6.6 mm on day 27 at time 08:16

Maximum temperature     = 32.2°C on day 30 at time 14:09

Minimum temperature     = 3.3°C on day 09 at time 05:24

Maximum humidity        = 98% on day 22 at time 07:58

Minimum humidity        = 18% on day 30 at time 13:27

Maximum dewpoint        = 15.6°C on day 19 at time 12:06

Minimum dewpoint        = 2.7°C on day 23 at time 6:20

Maximum pressure        = 1032.1 hPa on day 02 at time 09:14

Minimum pressure        = 1002.3 hPa on day 25 at time 06:13

Maximum windspeed       = 20.4 kmh from 360°( N ) on day 04 at time 10:18

Maximum gust speed      = 35.2 km/h from 315°( NW) on day 16 at time 16:48

Maximum heat index      = 30.3°C on day 30 at time 14:09

Avg daily max temp :20.2°C

Avg daily min temp :7.4°C

Total windrun = 1611.0km

-----------------------------------

Daily rain totals

-----------------------------------

  08.4 mm  on day 9

  01.6 mm  on day 10

  11.6 mm  on day 12

  04.0 mm  on day 14

  02.0 mm  on day 15

  01.2 mm  on day 16

  05.2 mm  on day 19

  01.0 mm  on day 21

  00.2 mm  on day 22

  04.4 mm  on day 24

  02.4 mm  on day 28

  06.6 mm  on day 29

Rainfall for the month was down on the average.

Regards,

Robert Bethell

Fiona McAllister (quote from her FaceBook Page)

After a tense election weekend I am pleased and honoured to now be your councillor for the next 4 years. Thank you to everyone who supported me and of course voted for me! I'm already thinking about the key issues and priorities and very aware of the need to get them on the agenda straight away! The key issues I ran on - consultation, planning reform, spending efficiencies and of course commonsense ... are all front of mind and action as the 'induction' process commences... I will keep you all posted

Minister's blueprint for the future - Government - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Minister's blueprint for the future - Government - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader:

 "STATE Planning Minister Matthew Guy today released a discussion paper about planning for Melbourne's future.

The discussion paper called Melbourne, let's talk about the future, will shape the Government's Metropolitan Planning Strategy.

It includes nine key principles on what could be done to plan for population growth up until the year 2050.

Mr Guy said the discussion paper focused on the positives of past planning strategies as well as new ideas to make Melbourne one of the world's "most livable cities"."

Comment:  Worth a read...
Get the full paper here  

Fiona McAllister, Independent

Fiona McAllister, Independent Candidate: 

"My business is advising councils across the state to help them ensure good governance and to deliver better outcomes for their communities. My 12 years experience in this area means I have a strong knowledge of council systems, finance, and governance and can ask the hard questions of council officers straight away. I have also seen the best of what local government can achieve in the innovations of other councils and could put this knowledge to good use here."



Comment:  Re read her campaign policy by clicking the link above.

Yarra Ranges Council elections 2012 - Elections - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Yarra Ranges Council elections 2012 - Elections - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader: 

"UPDATE 5PM SUNDAY: THERE were shock results in the Yarra Ranges elections, with two popular councillors booted out.

Former councillors Tim Heenan and Richard Higgins were defeated, meaning the council is in for a big makeover"

'via Blog this'

Matthew Guy's nine-step plan to addressing housing affordability in Melbourne

He says affordable living could be addressed by:

1. Increasing housing supply;
2. Reducing the cost of building;
3. Reducing barriers to affordable housing development;
4. Preserving or offsetting the loss of existing low-cost housing;
5. Encouraging new affordable housing with planning scheme controls or incentives;
6. Securing dedicated social housing – housing rented at below market cost;
7. Increasing the number of jobs in suburban areas, to reduce commuting distances and times for suburban residents;
8. Reducing the need to own a second car and even any car per household by improving cycling, walking and public transport options; and
9. Other incentives to integrate affordable housing into new developments.

Reference:  Click Here

Comment: How many can we use to expand Coldstream?

Fiona McAllister wins Ryrie

FIONA McALLISTER

our new member for RYRIE

Comment:  Congrats from COLDSTREAM  2020

Who's in!

Hi All,

Final results

Billanook-          Maria McCarthy

Chandler-          Jason Callanan

Chirnside-         Andy Witlox

Lyster-              Samatha Dunn

Melba-               Terry Avery

O'Shannassy-     Jim Child

Ryrie-                Fiona McAllister

Streeton-           Noel Cliff

Walling-            Len Cox

We have five new Councillors. 

Final Results for Ryrie

Well done to all who tried to get in, but as they say, there can only be one winner.

Ryrie raw results

Home - Metropolitan Planning Strategy

Home - Metropolitan Planning Strategy:


 "METROPOLITAN PLANNING STRATEGY


A new Metropolitan Planning Strategy is being prepared to provide a blueprint to guide Melbourne's future over the next 30-40 years. It will ensure the valued aspects of Melbourne are protected while allowing for future needs. The strategy will include links with the Regional Growth Plans and together these plans will provide a long-term vision for Victoria. For more information visit the About Us page."

Metropolitan Planning Strategy - Discussion Paper Released for Comment

Metropolitan Planning Strategy - Discussion Paper Released for Comment: "


Dear Mario

The Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy, has released a Discussion Paper – Melbourne, let’s talk about the future.

The paper has been prepared by the Victorian Coalition Government's Ministerial Advisory Committee to prompt debate around the challenges and ideas for Melbourne's future.

The Discussion Paper is available online via the Plan Melbourne website and all Victorians are invited to have their say. 

You can have your say by:
Filling in the online submission form
Joining the discussion via the online forums; or
Registering to attend the events in early 2013.
Comments on the Discussion Paper close on Friday 1 March 2013.  We look forward to hearing your feedback.

Visit www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au for more information.

Sincerely
The Plan Melbourne Team
"

'via Blog this'

Drought-proof food bowls proposed as integral to Melbourne future planning

Drought-proof food bowls proposed as integral to Melbourne future planning:

 "Controversial changes to Melbourne's planning system are under way and Planning Minister Matthew Guy will release his proposals tomorrow for public comment."



Comment:  Can't wait

Protesters threaten to chain themselves to Tecoma McDonald's site to stop development | Herald Sun

Protesters threaten to chain themselves to Tecoma McDonald's site to stop development | Herald Sun:


 "Some protesters have vowed to chain themselves to the site to prevent the fast-food giant from building the restaurant in Burwood Highway, after Yarra Ranges Council last night rejected pleas to take the battle to the Supreme Court."

'via Blog this'

McDonald's avoids court challenge over Tecoma plan | Yarra Ranges

McDonald's avoids court challenge over Tecoma plan | Yarra Ranges:

'via Blog this'

Anger boils over as council rejects Tecoma Maccas fight - Business - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader

Anger boils over as council rejects Tecoma Maccas fight - Business - News - Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader:

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Alister Osborn on the Tecoma MCDonald's Issue

Hi All

Last night we had a win, a win because Yarra Ranges RatePayers has put this current Council under scrutinee & demanded it explain itself.

  What happened was Council in caretaker mode voted 6 to 3 to not take VCAT to the Victorian Supreme Court and waste possibly hundreds of thousands of ratepayers money on a frivolous court cases.

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To explain McDonalds want to open an outlet in Tecoma. The site is permissible and use permissible under the planning scheme. Only the building required a planning permit. At a Council meeting where a Green rent a crowd turned up Council voted 9 to 0 to ignore the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme and reject the proposal. Of course it went to VCAT, of course VCAT were scathing in their judgement of course Maccas got their planning permit. Of course we just wasted thousands on defending Green dogma.

So then what happens is Crs Dunn & Cliff try to bully, with another rent a crowd intimidating Council, into putting an urgent motion through the last meeting of Council before the  election to commit YRC to spending money on ideology. Forget governance forget the moral obligation of an outgoing Council. The Greens were only interested in themselves. All I can say it thank you to all of you who have been part of this campaign to raise Council standards and stand up for us the Rate Payers. I can only hope that come next week we have some balance on Council.

best regards

Alister Osborn

Comment:  Alister is standing for council at the upcoming elections.