Dine out! Glass half full Meet your new Council - Greater Bendigo - City of Greater Bendigo
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Greater Bendigo
December 2020
Dine out!
Glass half full
Meet your new
Council
CONTENTS
NEWS
4 'Tis the season to go swimming
5 Meet your new Council
8 A rewarding opportunity
A new chapter begins
9 Working for Victoria, works for Greater Bendigo
GB quiz!
BUSINESS
10 Dine outdoors
12 To market, to market
13 Highlighting the benefits of hiring people with
disability
16
The success of your new home business is only a
phone call away!
COMMUNITY
14 Glass half full
16 Showcasing gratitude
17 Community spirit shines through COVID-19
projects
18 Surviving summer
Is your summer emergency plan right to go?
17 Dine out!
19 Free green waste disposal
Where to go as a last resort when bushfire
Greater Bendigo
December 2020
threatens
Glass half full
20 New plan to advance reconciliation
Meet your new
Council
Video a love song to Bendigo
21 Libraries bringing people together
A new dog park for Heathcote
22 Golden Square - what's not to love!
3 for free!
24 Bendigo and Maubisse - an enduring friendship
since 2006
SERVICES
25 Seeing the bigger picture
26 Tips to reduce your waste this Christmas
27
27 What's in the works?
27 City to extend organics collections in 2021
ON THE COVER: Bendigo locals Jude and Rebecca
Apokis enjoy outdoor dining at Ms Batterhams. PayStay parking now available throughout city
Read more on page 10-11. centre
ACTIVE AND HEALTHY
23
29 Why you can't dig on Crown land
Helping fitness groups and businesses to train
outdoors
30 Making healthy eating easy
Local food systems
LIFESTYLE
31 Greater Bendigo Great Bakery Trail
32 What I did Last Week
34 When one door closes, another opens
35 Merry Christmas
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER
GB Magazine was prepared by the
City using all reasonable steps to
ensure the safety of participants.
2
Looking good Bendigo!
Have you got a great photo of Bendigo?
Submit your image to gbmag@bendigo.
vic.gov.au and you might just see it
featured here next edition.
Photo submitted by Simon Crane.
WELCOME FROM THE CEO
A Council is like a Board, it oversees Asset Plan to guide how it will look Finally, I would like to take this
In a year that has brought the running of the organisation, so after its buildings and other community opportunity to wish you all a very merry
about significant change, Councillors need to understand how infrastructure. Christmas. It has been a year like none
it works and the services that are other, but as a community we have done
in recent months our delivered. This then helps them to make
When you think the average week as a
Councillor can involve up to 20 hours
a remarkable job of meeting the ever-
decisions with the social, environmental, changing challenges of COVID-19. I would
organisation has been economic and cultural needs of the whole
of reading, along with attending weekly
like to thank all our staff for the way they
briefings, monthly meetings, meeting
preparing for one more community in mind.
with residents and attending community
have worked throughout this time and
thank the previous and current Council for
– the induction of a new Early next year, consultation will begin on
the development of key documents that
events, it is a significant commitment.
the way they have supported staff to adapt
and continue to serve our community.
Council. will guide the work of Council over the
This Council is the latest in the history of
Local Government in Greater Bendigo and I hope all our readers enjoy a safe and
next four years and we want you to be
we look forward to it making a valuable relaxing Christmas.
Every four years our community heads involved in this important work.
contribution as it builds on the legacy of
to the polls, via our letterboxes, to vote Craig Niemann,
Using community feedback, Council will previous Councils in shaping a vibrant
in the next Council – nine people tasked Chief Executive Officer
agree to a new strategic vision for our regional city and community.
with making decisions on behalf of community, essentially an aspirational
our community to guide the long-term statement about how it would like to
development and success of Greater see Greater Bendigo transform into the CONTACT THE CITY OF GREATER BENDIGO
Bendigo. future. It will set a four-year Council
It’s a significant role to get your head Plan, which is a roadmap to achieving the Main office Email
around and even though we have vision and sets a workplan for staff by 15 Hopetoun Street, Bendigo requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au
four returning councillors this outlining a number of actions Council Currently closed due to COVID-19 Website
term, officers have a key role in wants to see delivered. It will also restrictions www.bendigo.vic.gov.au
bringing everyone up to speed develop a new Municipal Public Postal
Health and Wellbeing Plan, which After hours/emergency number
to help the new group gel PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552 5434 6000
together. outlines ways Council will work to
improve the health and wellbeing Telephone Operating hours
To do this, an intensive of residents. 5434 6000 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday
induction program was planned, Hearing or speech impaired?
Under the new Local Follow us
which then transitioned into weekly Call via National Relay Service on 133 677
Council briefings and the Government Act 2020,
Council will also It is expected the City will re-open its Customer Service Centres in Bendigo and
opportunity for new and
need to publish a Heathcote in the new year, as Victorian Government COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
returning Councillors
to meet individually 10-year Financial
with myself and Plan for how
Want to read this document in an alternative format? The City is committed to
Directors. Continued it will achieve
providing documents that are easy to read for all. If you would like to read the
support will be long-term
magazine in an alternative format e.g. large print or text only, contact Customer
offered as the financial Service on 5434 6000 or requests@bendigo.vic.gov.au and we will endeavour to service
Councillors adjust sustainability your request in the quickest time possible.
to the role. and a 10-year
NEWS 3
h e s eas o n to
'Tis t
Summer has arrived and pools across Greater Bendigo are opening for the 2020/2021 season.
So if you’re looking for a pool to stay cool or keep fit and swim laps in, visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au
for more information.
Elmore Swimming Pool Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre Marong Swimming Pool
Please note COVID-19 4 Elmore-Raywood Road, Elmore Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat High Street, Marong
restrictions may impact the
0477 196 840 4431 1000 5435 2207
operating hours, number of
people allowed at each pool Facilities: 25m and toddler pools, water Facilities: 51.5m heated pool (with Facilities: 25m and toddler pools, and
and permitted activities this slide, barbecue and off-street parking moveable boom to create two 25m kiosk
summer. Please phone or pools), beach-entry leisure pool for
check social media for details toddler and family swimming, splash
on local pool opening hours Faith Leech Aquatic Centre park, warm water program pool and Peter Krenz Leisure Centre
and to find out if there are any 168 Barnard Street, Bendigo spa facilities, steam room, sauna,
requirements in place. gymnasium and group fitness rooms, 15 Napier Street, Eaglehawk
5443 6151 childcare and multi-purpose room, 5446 9222
Facilities: 50 metre (heated with health and wellness centre and café (all Facilities: 50m (heated), multi-use and
accessible chair lift), intermediate (with pools are fully accessible) toddler pools, water slide, spa and
accessible ramp), toddler and diving
Local pools
pools and facilities:
facilities: pools, water slide, café, barbecue and
sauna, gymnasium and group fitness
rooms, family change rooms and café
Bendigo East Swimming Pool al fresco dining area
Heathcote Swimming Pool
33 Lansell Street, East Bendigo 10 Barrack Street, Heathcote Raywood Swimming Pool
5443 7078 Golden Square Pool
5433 2223
1 Macaulay Street, Raywood
14 Maple Street, Golden Square
Facilities: 50m (heated), intermediate Facilities: 25m and toddler pools 5436 1360
and toddler pools, barbecue and picnic 0401 804 701 (solar heated), shade and kiosk
settings, kiosk and off-street parking Facilities: 25m and toddler pools, shade
Facilities: 50m, learners/intermediate
and seating
and toddler pools, barbecue, shade and
kiosk
Brennan Park Swimming Pool Long Gully Splash Park FREE ENTRY
!
White Hills Swimming Pool
Brennan Park Pool Road, Flora Hill 21 Cunneen Street, Long Gully
Goornong Swimming Pool
5443 9407 Facilities: Shaded seating area, picnic 30 Hamelin Street, White Hills
2 Bagshot Street, Goornong tables, barbecues, toilets and change 5448 4295
Facilities: 50m (solar heated with
accessible ramp), intermediate, toddler 5432 2368 room, visitor-activated fountains, drench Facilities: 33m and toddler pools, shade
and diving pools, barbecue, kiosk and bucket, basketball ring and irrigated and kiosk
Facilities: 25m and toddler pools,
off-street parking grass area
barbecue, shade and kiosk
4 NEWS
Meet your new Council
L-R: Deputy Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, Cr Vaughan Williams, Cr Julie Sloan, Cr Greg Penna, Mayor Cr Jennifer Alden,
Cr David Fagg, Cr Margaret O’Rourke, Cr Rod Fyffe OAM and Cr Matthew Evans.
Elmore
WHIPSTICK WARD
Five new Councillors have been elected to the Greater Raywood
Bendigo City Council. Local Government elections Neilborough
were held in October and those elected will represent Sebastian
Goornong
Greater Bendigo for the next four years.
Huntly
Cr Matthew Evans, Cr David Fagg, Cr Greg Mayor position is in title only, there is no Eaglehawk Bendigo
Myers Flat
Penna, Cr Julie Sloan and Cr Vaughan additional salary for the Deputy Mayor, and Epsom
Marong
Williams are all first-time Councillors and they are expected to support the Mayor Maiden
Gully
they join Cr Jennifer Alden, Cr Rod Fyffe by representing the Council at events and
Flora Hill
OAM, Cr Andrea Metcalf and Cr Margaret meetings the Mayor is unable to attend. Golden Square
Strathfieldsaye
Axedale
O’Rourke who were returned by voters. LOCKWOOD WARD
Council is still finalising meeting dates
Kangaroo Mandurang
Cr Jennifer Alden is the 2020/2021 Mayor for 2021. When they are confirmed they Lockwood Flat
EPPALOCK WARD
and Cr Andrea Metcalf is the Deputy will be published on the City's website.
Costerfield
Mayor. Council agreed to continue to Meetings will continue to be livestreamed
elect a Mayor every 12 months, along via the City’s website but Councillors Ravenswood
Heathcote
with a Deputy Mayor. This is the second do hope to welcome residents back to
Council term where the Mayoral role has attending Council meetings when it is safe
been supported by a Deputy. The Deputy to do so.
Mia Mia
Unsure which ward you're in? Visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/councillors Redesdale
NEWS 5
Meet your new Council
Eppalock WARD
Cr Matthew Evans
At 23 years-old, Cr Evans is the second youngest person to sit on the Greater Bendigo City
Council. He is a first-time Councillor who will place the community and its needs at the
forefront of his decision making. He is excited to meet the residents of Greater Bendigo,
particularly those in the Eppalock Ward, and drive positive change for the community in
partnership with local people, families, businesses and organisations.
Key areas of focus will be the responsible management of ratepayer money, supporting a
post-COVID-19 economic recovery and building a sustainable future.
Cr Evans plays football for Golden Square and cricket for West Bendigo. He lives with his
fiancé and their two dogs.
T 4408 6694 M 0437 867 028 E m.evans@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Cr Margaret O’Rourke Cr Greg Penna
This is Cr O’Rourke’s second Council Cr Penna is a first-time Councillor who
term. Her focus will be to support the will focus on improved road, drainage and
business community to recover and footpath infrastructure, and continued
thrive following the COVID-19 pandemic. support to areas experiencing considerable
She is also interested in the health and population growth, particularly
wellbeing of families and seeing the Strathfieldsaye. He is also interested in
continued development of open space and improving outcomes for small townships
recreational facilities to support this. She and rural communities.
believes advocacy to State and Federal
Cr Penna’s other priorities include waste
governments will be critical to driving
management, financial management,
the continued success of Greater Bendigo
reducing red tape, and greater
and the region. Her focus will also be on
transparency and accountability for
sustainably managing growth, protecting
Council. He also looks forward to
our environment, and ensuring the differing
consulting with and listening to residents,
needs of rural communities are understood
and working with his fellow Councillors and
and met.
City staff to achieve the best outcomes for
OME Cr O’Rourke is a long-time Bendigo resident the community.
A D TO C and lives with her husband and two teenage
I Y
PIINP GALLER
His various community roles include
daughters. She is a former manager of
Chair of the Central Victorian Veterans
FR O M Telstra Countrywide and her current Board
Support Centre, President of the Golden
appointments include Deputy Chair at
City Collectors Association, Vice President
Bendigo Kangan Institute and Director at
of the Bendigo Australia Indonesia Club,
Goulburn Murray Water.
Treasurer and booking officer for Quarry
T 4408 6692 M 0429 061 096 Hill Community Hall and Treasurer of the
E m.orourke@bendigo.vic.gov.au Greater Bendigo Ratepayers Association.
He is also a past member of the Road
Safety Committee.
T 4408 6690 M 0429 721 958
E g.penna@bendigo.vic.gov.au
6 NEWS
We are pleased to introduce you to your new Councillors for the 2020-2024
Council term. It’s time to get to know your local representatives.
Lockwood WARD Whipstick WARD
Mayor Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Vaughan Williams Deputy Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf
Cr Alden is looking forward to her second Cr Williams is a resident of Golden Square Cr Metcalf is a lifelong resident of Bendigo and is returning to Council for a second term.
term and the opportunity to continue to and this is his first term on Council. He She is focused on being accessible to the community and looks forward to hearing from
advocate on the importance of community is focused on developing a financially and meeting with residents throughout this term. So as the community understands her
health and wellbeing and supporting sustainable and jobs growth future for decision making, Cr Metcalf also looks forward to continuing her record on speaking to
the equitable development of services, Greater Bendigo that is informed by most matters before Council.
infrastructure and strategies that enable considered forward planning.
Cr Metcalf is passionate about support for the business community in the wake of the
this.
He stood for Council on a platform of COVID-19 pandemic and also wants to see the development of a sustainable outcome to
She is interested in creating well- transparency, accountability and a desire manage waste as the Eaglehawk Landfill approaches the end of its life.
designed, resilient and prosperous to be part of a responsive Council. To help
She understands the importance of community facilities and is a keen supporter of Greater
communities that benefit from future- support Greater Bendigo’s recovery from
Bendigo’s rural communities, and wants to help them develop and maintain their unique
focused decision making that takes COVID-19, he is focused on prioritising
characteristics.
climate and biodiversity breakdown and support for local industries, particularly
future generations into account. those in manufacturing, retail, hospitality T 4408 6697 M 0499 009 096 E a.metcalf@bendigo.vic.gov.au
and the technology industries. Other top
Her aim is to support employment
priorities include new footpaths, drainage
pathways and job creation via innovation.
This applies to business and the
upgrades and road maintenance to help Cr Julie Sloan Cr David Fagg
residents move around, and reducing
manufacturing industry with renewable
costs so as the Budget can support a Cr Julie Sloan has lived in the Whipstick Cr David Fagg is a first-time councillor
energy technologies in areas such as
range of community projects into the Ward for 21 years and joins Council for and lives in Long Gully. Cr Fagg has lived
waste and resource recovery, plus
future. the first time. Her vision for the Whipstick in the Whipstick Ward for 15 years and is
environmentally sustainable affordable
Ward and wider municipality is of a married to Kylie, with whom he has two
housing construction. She sees the visitor He looks forward to meeting with and
healthy, engaged and inclusive community young sons. He is a qualified youth worker
economy, with hospitality and its links listening to the residents of Lockwood
that is proud of its culture, environment, and secondary teacher.
to food and culture through the City Ward over the Council term.
animal welfare, and vibrant economic
of Gastronomy, as a critical part of the Cr Fagg ran on a platform to make the
T 4408 6696 M 0437 858 776 growth.
COVID-19 recovery. neighbourhoods of the Whipstick Ward
E v.williams@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Her favourite parts of the ward include the safer, healthier and more vibrant places
T 4408 6695 M 0499 005 735
forests, parks and lakes, native wildlife, where people want to live, work and
E j.alden@bendigo.vic.gov.au
family and community spaces, art and raise their families. His focus is to expand
culture precincts, recreation reserves, services for young people and families,
local eateries, markets and friendly local push for fair distribution of budget funds
traders. Cr Sloan is interested in supporting across Greater Bendigo, and enable
Cr Rod Fyffe OAM strategies that encourage economic and communities to implement their priorities.
employment growth in small business, local
Cr Fyffe returns to the Greater Bendigo City Council table for the eighth time. He looks He will advocate for safer walking and
construction and manufacturing industries.
forward to again working with and listening to the community. Over the next four years he cycling paths across the Whipstick Ward,
wants to see more jobs created in Greater Bendigo, particularly through the development of Other issues important to Cr Sloan include and encourage Council to buy a majority
a business park, and advocate for better training and skills development for young people. sustainable environmental outcomes, of its products and services from the local
considering animals and the environment community.
He will also focus on the development of new community facilities that provide an in decision making, reconciliation and
opportunity for people to safely meet, and new walking and cycling infrastructure to help He looks forward to hearing from the
healing initiatives, community arts and community and encourages people to get
people move around and stay healthy. Cr Fyffe is passionate about maintaining our striking culture hubs and interconnected cycling
heritage buildings and attracting events to Greater Bendigo to showcase our city and in touch via the email address below or
and pedestrian networks across the they can learn more about him and his
region to visitors. municipality and outlying towns. vision for the community at his website
He has lived in Bendigo for more than 40 years and is married to Victoria. They have two T 4408 6689 M 0437 862 975 www.davefagg.com.au
sons and three grandchildren. E j.sloan@bendigo.vic.gov.au T 4408 6698 M 0437 892 918
T 4408 6688 M 0419 874 015 E r.fyffe@bendigo.vic.gov.au E d.fagg@bendigo.vic. gov.au
NEWS 7
A rewarding
opportunity A new chapter begins
BY CR MARGARET O’ROURKE
MAYOR 2016–2020
BY MAYOR CR JENNIFER ALDEN is down to people not being able to access
It is hard to think of a time prior to COVID-19 when our secure employment. Identifying and supporting
working lives and private lives were not geared towards It is a great privilege to pathways for young people to get into work and
break the cycle of poverty will be important.
responding to and living through the greatest challenge of the
modern era.
serve as Mayor and lead the Ways Council can do this include identifying
But there were significant achievements both prior to and
Council team in the first year and allocating space for a business park and
working with the tourism and hospitality
during the pandemic, which are important to acknowledge of this new Council term. sectors to capitalise on Bendigo and the region
and celebrate. becoming a City of Gastronom.y
It was an award-winning end to 2019, with the City scooping I look forward to being able to provide I am also interested in the recent
various award ceremonies relating to tourism and marketing continuity of leadership between the previous announcements around the Victorian
promotion of our city, development of our airport, and an and new Councils and continue a range Government’s investment in social housing,
award from the Governor of Victoria for our commitment to of important work with the aim of making which includes a minimum of $85M for Greater
celebrating and advancing multiculturalism in our community. decisions that deliver the best possible quality Bendigo, and how this can help improve living
of life for residents. standards locally. The City is currently working
We also became a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, finishing off
a year-long journey to join cities such as Barcelona, Montreal, on an Affordable Housing Action Plan, so
For me, it is critical that we don’t leave anyone
Dunedin, Chengdu and Tuscon in this category. there is a great opportunity to build on this
behind as we seek to grow the prosperity
announcement and advocate for strong social,
In the final year of the 2016-2020 Council, I am pleased to and capability of Greater Bendigo. Strong
economic and environmental outcomes for our
say that the theme for 2020 was the completion of significant community engagement and listening to and
community as this new housing is built.
strategic documents. Knowing we were approaching the end understanding the needs of our residents will
of our term, it was important to Councillors to leave a legacy help to ensure this. Other advocacy efforts will focus on attracting
that would shape the future development of Greater Bendigo. funding to expand the Bendigo Airport terminal
We have some challenges and opportunities
building to turbo charge our visitor economy.
This body of work included Reimagining Bendigo Creek, ahead, particularly in driving social and
Plans are also underway to investigate
Greening Greater Bendigo, the Food System Strategy, the economic recovery from COVID-19. I look
solutions in waste management, which may
Greater Bendigo Gender Equity Strategy, Reconciliation Plan, forward to meeting with businesses across
include a Regional Resource Recovery and
Bendigo City Centre Plan, and Greater Bendigo Industrial Greater Bendigo to get an understanding of
Recycling facility.
Land and Development Strategy. These documents will what Council can do to support them to remain
contribute to the future liveability, growth, sustainability, open. I am energised by the challenge ahead and
inclusivity and economic success of Greater Bendigo. thank many in the community who have
Managing the ongoing impacts of climate
reached out to wish me well at such an
I was also particularly proud to usher in a second Youth change and biodiversity breakdown is important
important time in the history of our city and
Council, which demonstrated Council’s commitment to to me and underpins the urgency for action by
region. I would also like to acknowledge the
supporting our leaders of tomorrow and ensuring our Council. As our summers continue to get hotter
great service of Cr Margaret O’Rourke, who has
decision making reflected the ideas and opinions of young and given the climate we live in, growing our
led Council and our community for the past four
people. resilience to emergencies such as bushfires
years. I look forward to Councillors working
and planning for ways to reduce our collective
It was in March that COVID-19 began to take hold. Events together on writing this new chapter in the
impact on the environment will be an essential
were cancelled, including the 150th Bendigo Easter Fair. history of Greater Bendigo.
part of future Council decision making.
But in true Greater Bendigo fashion and through two A large reason for the food insecurity and
lockdowns and a few COVID clusters, we saw our community poverty experienced in our community
leaders rally and come together to discuss how we
would each take responsibility for guiding our community
through this time. I instigated chairing an immediate
response committee and later a recovery committee of
representatives from the City, Bendigo Health, Be.Bendigo,
Regional Development Victoria, Bendigo Foodshare, Victoria
Police, tourism and hospitality industries, Goldfields Library
Corporation and various community organisations.
Both committees were a great opportunity to collect feedback
to advocate to government, so as our state leaders could get
an idea of what was happening in the regions.
As we approach Christmas, it is a relief to see us on track
towards a COVID-normal and we hope it stays this way. There
is much to do to ensure our community can recover from the
impacts of the pandemic but we must also reflect on a job
well done; we stayed home, stayed the course and hopefully
we will now be rewarded.
I am delighted to again have the privilege to serve on Council
and am very grateful to have been able to serve as Mayor for
four years, and so proud of the work that was achieved by
Council and the community.
Wishing all our readers a safe and merry Christmas and
festive season. Here’s to a positive and optimistic 2021.
8 NEWS
gb quiz!
How well do you know
Greater Bendigo?
Q1 Who is Greater Bendigo’s
mayor for 2020/2021?
Q2 Where has the Bendigo
Community Farmers Market
'full market' moved to?
Q3 What is the name of the new
project helping to create
inclusive employment
opportunities?
Working for Victoria
employeeJacqueline Glen
working at the Discovery Q4 Where will you
find a new mural
Science & Technology Centre.
showcasing
gratitude?
WORKING FOR VICTORIA, Q5 True or false: You
works for Greater Bendigo
can dispose of green
waste for free year-round at
the Eaglehawk Landfill and
Goornong and Heathcote
Transfer Stations.
Local community buildings, facilities, infrastructure, outdoor spaces
and residents have benefited greatly from the Victorian Government’s Q6 Where is Greater
Bendigo’s newest dog
park located?
Working for Victoria initiative.
Earlier this year the City of Greater
Bendigo was delighted to receive a
community, undertaken administrative
tasks for the City, carried out audits
“COVID-19 has really affected the
aviation industry and I’m grateful
Q7 When was the Bendigo
Maubisse Friendship
$4.63M grant from the Working for of contaminated land sites, planted to have this opportunity to work with Committee formed?
Victoria initiative to employ people trees and spread soft fall, and helped a great team and undertake some A) 2002 B) 2004 C) 2006
who had lost their jobs due to Bendigo Foodshare to continue the important community work through
COVID-19. great work it does in providing food the Working for Victoria initiative.
City Chief Executive Officer Craig
Niemann said the funding had allowed
to people in our community who need
some help.
“I am currently the project manager
for the Bendigo Community Food
Q8 In the 2019/2020 financial
year, approximately how many
the organisation to hire 115 people for “The Working for Victoria funding Pantry, which is a program to provide planning applications were
six months to undertake a range of is also being used to hire additional short term food relief to people who received?
cleaning and maintenance works and vehicles and equipment, and purchase feel uncomfortable asking for help. A) 1,150 B) 1,250 C) 1,350
perform a range of other tasks that personal protective equipment (PPE) “The aim of this project is to provide
otherwise would not have taken place. from local suppliers for the workers to
Q9
a faceless online ordering system, What is the name
“This is work that the City would not undertake their roles. which is backed up by a volunteer
necessarily have had the means to delivery system, to help people who
of the online
“The workers have been doing a great art exhibition
otherwise undertake, so not only find themselves under financial stress
job and the City really appreciates
has it provided jobs for people in our due to COVID-19 and the downturn that has been
the funding from the Victorian
community but it has also helped
Government that has allowed Greater
in the economy. I am also involved showcasing
improve local facilities too,” Mr in a three-month trial project by local artists who
Bendigo to be part of the program.”
Niemann said. the Victorian Government to supply have created
Working for Victoria employee culturally appropriate food to people
“Since July, crews employed under the
in regional Victoria.
work at home?
program have undertaken cleaning, Brad Brewer said when COVID-19
external maintenance and gardening restrictions started he had just “Working with the people at the Food
at the City’s many community
buildings, and additional cleaning of
finished his training as a First Officer
on the Airbus A380 with Qantas.
Pantry is a highlight of each day. I
am amazed at what they have been
Q10 True or false: Bendigo Venues
& Events' Play at Home
playspaces and early learning centres “I have been with Qantas for 20 years through in life, yet their main concern program featured more than 60
to ensure they are COVID-safe. flying long haul international flights, is helping others." local artists.
“They have also provided valuable IT first on the Boeing 747 and now the
A380,” Mr Brewer said. ow well did you do?
H
support to vulnerable members of our
See page 28 for answers.
NEWS 9
Dine outdoors
If you love the experience of outdoor dining, it couldn’t get much better than in
Greater Bendigo where you can enjoy top-class food and beverages together with
300 days of sunshine.
No wonder outdoor dining is a big draw For example, Bull Street has been
card in Greater Bendigo. It’s also a key partially closed and barriers installed
ingredient in creating outdoor COVID- to create an expanded outdoor dining
safe places for customers to enjoy and footprint for several businesses. Bull Street has been
support hospitality businesses to get Protective barriers are also in place in
back on track. View Street, Hargreaves Street, Edwards partially closed and
Street and King Street.
City of Greater Bendigo Director Strategy barriers installed to
and Growth Bernie O’Sullivan said City The City has also waived all outdoor
staff from across the organisation had dining fees and cut red tape to quicken create an expanded
been involved in helping interested the process. Planning permit application
businesses expand their outdoor dining fees associated with permits for liquor outdoor dining
footprint, with over 46 applications licence extensions within outdoor dining
already processed and several areas are not required. footprint for several
businesses in Eaglehawk and Heathcote
recently applying for permits.
Interested hospitality businesses can businesses.
contact our Business Help Desk by
“We have had really positive discussions emailing bhd@bendigo.vic.gov.au or
with hospitality traders across Greater phoning 5434 6000 and our staff will
Bendigo to talk about their options and arrange a time to meet you.
we’ve tried to make it as seamless as
For more information and frequently
possible,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
asked questions, visit
“Where businesses have been able to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/
expand into car parking spaces, City staff outdoordining
in partnership with traders have moved
quickly to make these spaces accessible,
safe and comfortable.”
This opportunity will be temporary and
approvals will be in place until June 30,
2021. City staff will continue to monitor
if these approvals need to be altered or
other arrangements put in place.
10 BUSINESSWHAT YOU SAID
How extended outdoor dining is helping businesses
“Our dealings with the Council to facilitate “We’ve been given permission to trade in We’ve gone from having no outdoor
this very essential change was seamless. the two car parking bays directly outside dining to this and our customers
They were very proactive to get things of Anxious Goat on Hargreaves Street love it. It has made my business
going to enliven our streets and support and extend down the front footpath. The more visible to customers because
all businesses. outdoor dining with nine tables has helped there are no trucks or cars in the way
me to keep on trading. so more people now know my little café is
The extension to our outdoor dining here. I hope we can keep this going even
area has ensured that we will be able to “It has made a huge difference to our after the pandemic is over.”
financially survive, keep all of our staff business and I’ve been able to rehire and
employed and also allow for more job recruit more staff. The support from the Brian Harrison
creation. This is a very essential move. other hospitality venues has been amazing B-Jays Café, King Street
and the extra outdoor dining changes “Moving the space outdoors creates that
We have tried to create a visual experience through Council could not have been easier.” community feel within the city centre.
for our customers. The feedback from “When the extension of outdoor dining
When you walk around and see people
locals has been predominantly that the Mandy Bloomfield became an option, a number of traders
dining outdoors it gives that European
Anxious Goat, Hargreaves Street in Bull Street had a discussion and our
experience is amazing, that it almost vibe. The outdoor dining also helps people
replaces their cancelled international first contact at Council was with Phil. He
to feel safer. We only opened in February
holidays, and they appreciate being able to listened to what we were trying to do and
“Since COVID-19 started, my days have so the outdoor dining is great for our
spend time with family and friends in this came up with a plan and we provided
been terrible with no sleep for the last six business. We have learnt a lot more about
new COVID-safe environment. input. The turnaround was fantastic. My
months, but we’ve got by. After a quick our business in the first year and built
outdoor dining and liquor permit extends
We appreciate the support of Council phone call to Council, two days later, a lot of resilience and a connection with
my red line area out to the front of the
an awesome lady was up here for an our staff that perhaps you wouldn’t have
and believe that these spaces are a business and that is major because I can
inspection and she suggested using the otherwise. The pandemic has helped us to
vital component of the re-build that now trade at 80 per cent of my original
parallel parks out the front of the cafe. know what we are capable of and how to
Bendigo needs to retain its major tourism size. We’ve also been blown away by the
Within a week, I got to work at 6.15am get through this year and beyond.”
destination title.” support from the Bendigo community.”
to see there were trucks out the front
Sharon Lock unloading the bollards and the road was Paul Jarman Rhianwen Seiter
Borchelli Ristorante, View Street blocked off. I was stoked! Stella, Bull Street Ms Batterhams, MacKenzie Street
BUSINESS 11To market, to market
COVID-19 has seen many people turn to farmers markets and local producers
to buy fresh food. With supermarkets experiencing short-term shortages,
farmers markets present an alternative source of produce and a way to support
local business during challenging times.
Bendigo Community Farmers Market “Now most shoppers are treating it as an “Supporting local farmers and producers
has not been immune to this trend and essential shopping experience. Shoppers and giving them a fair price enables
has seen increased support from the have discovered the joy of connecting with them to continue to invest in their farms
community since the pandemic began. local farmers and food producers. They and businesses to increase production,
Left:
Market Manager Chris Hain said the
want to know where their food comes introduce new products and reduce waste, Love
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx your local !
from, who grew it or made it, why they do because everything that is grown can be
market had seen an increase in sales Bendigo Community Farmers
it, how they do it and how to cook it.” sold without having to ship long distances.
since the onset of COVID-19. Market
Mr Hain said the 'Love your Local' “It really is a win-win for shoppers and
• Mini Markets: Thursdays,
campaign and the knowledge that they producers. Shoppers get high quality,
"The money spent goes were shopping in an open-air environment freshly harvested, in-season produce in
2pm - 4.30pm, Good Loaf Bakery,
Bendigo
had led to this shift in behaviour. a traditional market atmosphere. The
directly to supporting money spent goes directly to supporting • Full market: second Saturday of
“Supporting local producers ensures a the month, Bendigo Pony Club,
the farmers of the strong and resilient local food system,” he
the farmers of the Bendigo region and the
local economy.” Golden Square
said.
Bendigo region and The Bendigo Community Farmers Market
www.bcfm.org.au
is accredited with the Victorian Farmers
the local economy.” Market Association, which means that Bendigo Showgrounds Market
shoppers can have confidence that the
• Normally held every Sunday from
person they are transacting with is the
8.30am to 2pm at the Prince of
person who grew or made the produce.
Wales Showgrounds in Holmes
They are required to have a minimum
Road, Bendigo
of 75 per cent accredited stallholders
and generally operate well over that www.bendigoshow.org.au/market
benchmark.
With the support of the City of Greater Heathcote Lions Bush Market
Bendigo, the market has recently made (also runs a Night Market)
the move to the Bendigo Pony Club site
• Normally runs on the first
in Golden Square, which provides more
Saturday of the month (suspended
space for stallholders and shoppers. The
due to COVID-19 restrictions)
City is also exploring the site for the future
Bendigo Community Farmers Market Manager Chris Hain checking in with stallholders. Greater Bendigo Community Food Hub. heathcote.vic.lions.org.au
12 BUSINESSThe success of
your new home
business is only a
phone call away!
Anyone wanting to start a new business from their
home is encouraged to call the City of Greater
Bendigo so we can help ensure your business is
operating safely and with the correct permits in
place.
We know that COVID-19 has hit many local
businesses hard and we’ve noticed quite a few
home food, beauty and nail businesses popping up
recently. This is great and we love seeing people
being resilient, optimistic and taking control of their
destiny.
However, some people starting home-based
businesses may not realise they need to be
registered and have the correct permits in place.
The City wants to see home businesses thrive and
survive and is more than happy to advise on the
steps businesses need to take to ensure this.
Highlighting the benefits
You can talk with our Business Help Desk team on
5434 6000 or email any questions to
bhd@bendigo.vic.gov.au
of hiring people with disability on
o available
e r in fo rm ation is als
Furt h
at:
A new project, Champions for Change, is helping to create inclusive our website .vic.gov.au/business
w .b e n d ig o virohealth
ww .gov.au/en
employment opportunities across the City of Greater Bendigo and www.be n d ig o.v ic
Mount Alexander and Loddon Shires by highlighting to local employers
the many benefits of hiring people with a disability.
Through the project, a range of information and partner them with program officers to speak to
resources are available to support local employers businesses about inclusive employment,” Ms Jones
looking to recruit from this wide and diverse talent pool. said.
“Due to restrictions that wasn’t possible, so we
“While employers have expanded the traineeship aspect of the program. This
has resulted in a wonderful outcome, particularly at
traditionally been hesitant a time when general unemployment is high. We hope
to employ people with a the program will create a legacy of further inclusive
employment opportunities within not only Local
disability, this is changing.” Government but also more broadly.
“While employers have traditionally been hesitant to
employ people with a disability, this is changing. We
The Federally-funded program, led by the City of
hear from local organisations that they are open to
Greater Bendigo, has also provided opportunities for six
employing people with a disability, but the information
people with disability to complete traineeships across
and support hasn’t always been widely known and we
the three Local Government areas.
hope the resources that have been developed will help
City Senior Inclusive Employment Officer Alison change this.”
Jones said the program was designed to provide new
For information on hiring a person with a disability visit
employment opportunities, while educating employers
www.inclusiveemployment.com.au
about the benefits of employing people with a disability.
“Prior to COVID-19, the intention of Champions for
Change was to employ people with a disability and
BUSINESS 13Glass half full
What makes you optimistic? That’s the question asked as part of the City of Greater Bendigo’s Voices of
Optimism campaign to celebrate our community’s strong sense of optimism, even when times are challenging.
"...being optimistic
Since August, community members have in August where special guests spoke frankly
contributed to a Voices of Optimism campaign, about what made them optimistic from a personal,
sharing their thoughts on what makes them business and community perspective, despite facing
optimistic by recording a short video on their phone.
Selected videos continue to be promoted on our
social media platforms and with City partners.
can be learnt, it’s never some extraordinary challenges and setbacks in their
own lives.
too late to change your
These included Bendigo Foodshare Chair Cathie
Mayor Cr Jennifer Alden said the Voices of Optimism Steele, Cr Margaret O’Rourke and her close friend
campaign aimed to showcase and promote the Mary Dwyer, Coliban Water Managing Director
power of this region’s optimism.
“Greater Bendigo has a fantastic optimistic way of thinking and Damian Wells who broke his neck in a cycling
accident, and Bendigo Community Health Services
Chief Executive Officer Gerard Jóse who said
community spirit, which is why it’s a great
place to live, study and work,” Cr Alden
said.
enjoy a new, better optimism was part of his DNA.
Mr Perton, who has written several books on the
“We have already reached out to
scores of people in our community
and I want to thank them for
normal.” power of optimism, said there was an abundant
body of scientific research that showed people with
an optimistic outlook fared much better, particularly
during challenging times.
contributing to our Voices of remain optimistic that you too will
Optimism initiative. find their responses inspiring and “An optimistic spirit can bring significant benefits
perhaps provide you with a renewed including happiness, better physical and mental
“So far, we have received many
sense of optimism." health, better sleep, greater resilience and stronger
wonderful and varied responses
relationships,” Mr Perton said.
to the question ‘what makes you The City has been
optimistic?’ that have collaborating with The “Optimistic people are better able to balance their
been truly Centre for Optimism, which emotions more effectively and they bounce back
heartening. is a global movement more easily from some of the many stresses and
to empower people to challenges that life can bring.
“Our community’s mental health and wellbeing become more optimistic “Some people are born optimistic but the good news
is being challenged like never before as a result themselves and to foster is that being optimistic can be learnt, it’s never too
of this pandemic. optimism in those around late to change your way of thinking and enjoy a new,
them. better normal.”
“It has been an incredibly tough time for our
community this year and it’s not easy to feel The Centre’s Director, You can watch the videos and the free Virtual
optimistic, but I hope that when you hear from Victor Perton, presented Café Series by visiting www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/
others in our community about how they a free Virtual Café Series voicesoftoptimism
14 COMMUNITYWHAT MAKES ME OPTIMISTIC? “I think Bendigo has
opportunity and after
so much
we’re
through this really tou
gh
time with COVID-19,
I think
Bendigo will come ou
t the
“My family because they’ve raised “When you want to build a other side and do rea
lly great
“What makes me optimistic is
me up to always see the positive muscle, you have to keep on things. I think lots of that we can stick together and
people
picture in life and I’ve always using it. So I’m optimistic who are living in the keep our spirits up and by keeping
city are
followed that principle and I feel because I find the silver linings realising that a big ba connected with friends and family
ck yard
and a short commute
being optimistic just gives you a in my life which I’m grateful are in a time like this makes me
really, really good life
better life I guess, a happier life.” for, for example my family, style optimistic. We will be stronger for
choices to make.”
Tyrone, Year 12 student
my friends and a roof over my the future and how we cope with
head. To me, you need to keep Michelle Johnson, times like this, for me, especially
ESE Consulting, Direct
your spirits high, stay positive or as a Year 12 student in my final
and focus on the things you year of secondary studies. I’m also
“What makes me optimistic is being love. It’s important to have optimistic of how our schools and
with my family and friends and
hope and nothing in life is businesses will grow to do such
especially if I could be any kind of
help and support for my friends and permanent. Remember, this amazing things, especially in
my community. Things that make me too shall pass.” times of hardship and how they’ve
happy are listening to music, playing
“I love the idea of learning and coped with them.”
Thaera O’Brien, a mum and growing and for someone like me
table tennis, gardening and cooking, PhD candidate
to be able to start university at Mattia Costelow, Year 12 student
and going to a calm place to watch
nature's beauty.” the tender age of 60, that’s got
Zahir Azimi, Bendigo Community “There’s a lot of things to look to be a pretty progressive society.
Sometimes we don’t always get “I am a glass half full sort of lady.
Health Services, Settlement Case forward to within Bendigo. We’ve
what we want but there’s always Opportunity makes me optimistic.
Worker got a lot of investment coming into
Even during these challenging times,
Bendigo with some major projects. opportunity if you keep going
there is opportunity that does come
We’ve got private investment in the future to get what you out. Having been born, bred and
coming into Bendigo with new want. So if you’re not thinking lived in regional Australia my whole
hotels. We’re well-situated in terms
in an optimistic way, some sort of life, I just know how resilient and
of a very diverse employment and
positives, we tend to stop doing innovative regional people can be and
manufacturing sector and there’s a
“The future of young people things.” there’s no exception here in Bendigo.
lot of opportunity I think in terms of
and the changes around I’ve found some of the most resilient,
where Bendigo sits as a region.” Janet Bromley, City of Greater
Bendigo seem to be really innovative and can-do attitudes that
Bendigo Intercultural Ambassador
fantastic. In terms of things Dennis Bice, Be.Bendigo, CEO I’ve seen right across Australia.
Gratitude, that makes me optimistic
like consideration for the
and so does a belief. I’m really
environment, respect of “For me optimism means that there’s grateful that I can do my job in such
people’s mental health and “I think there’s a lot of things a sense about the day, the week, the a beautiful city, in such a beautiful
I guess that environmental going for Bendigo and I am very immediate and the long-term future. region.”
and social sustainability optimistic about the future. First I work in mental health and I know
Marnie Baker, Bendigo and Adelaide
of Bendigo has been really of all, it’s our culture – we’ve been
the benefits of optimism. You’ve got
Bank, Managing Director
improved over the last few a very resilient community from
to find things – when I’m walking
around our beautiful Lake Weeroona
years. We’ve definitely come the early days of gold mining that gives me optimism. Parts of the
a long way.” and when that ran out we moved day I create moments where I use my “The vibrancy, positivity and
Jemille McKenzie, onto other things and became a senses and it gives me great joy.” commitment of our communities in
Bendigo Youth Council centre for agriculture, industry, Kaye Graves, Bendigo Community working hard to make a difference
for education, for medicine and so Health Services makes me optimistic about Greater
forth. We’ve always had a history Bendigo and the future we’re
of crises happening, but then creating together. I’m empowered
adapting to them and being more by everyday people of all different
resilient in the way we’ve done it.” “Every morning when I wake up is
“As someone who works in a ages, backgrounds and abilities
optimistic because I have enough
university, the thing that makes me Ian Green, Chair of the Great Stupa who give their time and skills
food to eat, a roof over my head
optimistic is watching the growth and of Universal Compassion to make the place we live more
and a safe place to live. More than prosperous, happy and healthy. I’m
development of our young people.
that, this place I believe is going also inspired by Bendigo’s young
We have so many talented students
to provide me with opportunities to people in particular – the leaders
who are so passionate about so many “I like playing with my brothers and
ways in which they can do good in sisters and we play LEGO™ and ride fulfil in the pursuit of my career. of tomorrow who, every single day,
the world. It really is inspiring and I our bikes. We have guinea pigs and I’m so glad that many services are out in our community standing
can’t wait to see what that generation chickens. The trees, the sunshine, support our Karen community and up for what’s right and for what
produces.” Bendigo is a great place.” encourage us. I’m really, really they believe in.”
thankful for this.”
Professor John Dewar, Jack Dutra Sam Kane, former Young Citizen
La Trobe University, Vice Chancellor Ma Paw, Bendigo Community Health of the Year
Services, Community Guide
COMMUNITY 15Showcasing gratitude
Quarry Hill Recreation Reserve has a vibrant new “Haymes Paint Shop Bendigo contributed materials.
mural that includes a chalkboard area for the They are very community-oriented and love to
community to share and display their words of support local artists."
gratitude. Gratitude for the small things around him became
The mural was initiated and created by local design an important element of the design.
and lettering artist Wes Franklin, who noticed the “We’ve been in Quarry Hill for nearly two years and
rebound wall each day when he took his family have found it so welcoming. Being able to walk in
for walks around the reserve. Wes developed such a nice space makes me feel grateful every
a proposal for the artwork and then sought the day,” Mr Franklin said.
appropriate permissions from the City of Greater
“Instead of doing the mural alone, I wondered if I
Bendigo to undertake the project.
could include the community and conversations led
The project was supported by the Bendigo me to adding the chalkboard space.
Venues & Events' Creative Communities team, “It gave me a chance to connect and talk to people.
the temporary Public Art program, Haymes Paint People can’t help but smile, everyone wants to be
Shop Bendigo and Wes engaged a few helpers to part of it!
transform the wall.
“The feedback has been really positive. Everyone is
“I wanted it to brighten the environment, but also keen to add their words of gratitude, I can’t wait to
blend and be complementary,” Mr Franklin said. see how it develops.”
16 COMMUNITYCommunity spirit shines through COVID-19 projects
The Make Someone’s Day letter writing campaign, a trauma teddy knitting project called Commuknitty Crafters
and the Make a Mask for a Mate initiative have proven that Greater Bendigo’s community spirit is alive and well
during COVID-19.
The City of Greater Bendigo developed program to create trauma teddies for the Requests from people in our community The City would like to thank everyone who
the three projects, which were designed Australian Red Cross to pass onto children to participate in this initiative resulted in participated in these three intiatives for
to provide support to members of our experiencing illness or trauma. enough resources for over 700 masks. helping to make the lives of others better
community and encourage them to stay In addition, many donations of material in what has been an unprecedented and
Commuknitty Crafters targeted
engaged and active during COVID-19. and additional masks were also given often difficult year.
community members aged over 50 who
The projects involved intergenerational to the project, which demonstrated the
may have experienced social isolation or Above: Red Cross Bendigo Manager Kara
activities to build positive relationships generosity that abounds in Greater
just wanted to help the community during Simmonds surrounded by trauma teddies
and connections between older residents Bendigo. The Fosterville Mine donated
COVID-19. knitted for the Commuknitty Crafters project.
and younger members of our community. 200 masks, while some individual
Over 100 people signed up to knit community members Below: Betty Jones reads a kindness letter
The Make Someone’s Day initiative received through the Make Someone’s Day
teddies and the City donated up to 100
provided an opportunity for children and initiative.
delivered knitting kits, masks towards the
young people to give back with a random
which included wool, project.
act of kindness by writing a letter or
needles, stuffing and a
drawing a picture to help older people
pattern to the participants.
combat isolation and loneliness.
The City recently donated the
Over 600 letters were delivered through
first batch of over 200 bears to
local networks to residents receiving aged
care services and people with disability.
the Red Cross for distribution. Over 600 letters were
To ensure everyone in the
The letters were heart-warming and
community was safe and had access to delivered through
reflected kindness and care. They
varied from photos of animals, beautiful
a face mask, the Make a Mask for a Mate
initiative called upon local sewers to make
local networks to
paintings and pictures, and stories of their
experiences during these times, to funny
reusable masks for those who really
needed one.
residents receiving
jokes to brighten the letter receiver’s day.
It was also great to see so many older
People who agreed to make some masks aged care services
were delivered packs containing a
residents show their appreciation by
pattern and enough material and elastic and people with
returning letters back to the kids and
to make three masks. The masks were
sharing information about themselves and
distributed through the City’s community disability.
their childhood.
services, Bendigo Foodshare, community
The City also put out a call for knitters houses, and aged and community service
through the Commuknitty Crafters organisations.
COMMUNITY 17Surviving Summer
Is your summer emergency plan right to go?
Emergencies can happen at any time and can affect us,
our families, our pets and our community, so it’s best to be
Looking after yourself
prepared by having a written emergency plan and knowing COOL YOURSELF:
where you will go to be safe and when you need to leave. • Drink plenty of fluids
• Stay out of the sun
To prepare your home for summer remove any If you have pets, make sure you prepare an • Wear lightweight, loose clothing
rubbish, clear the gutters, cut the grass and trim emergency kit for them too with a bowl, food, • Take a cool shower
the trees around your home. Domestic quantities blanket, lead, travel cage and any medication. • Reduce physical exertion
of green waste can be taken to the Eaglehawk • Use a damp cloth
You can download a copy of the In an emergency,
Landfill and Goornong and Heathcote Transfer
what is your plan? booklet from www.bendigo.vic. KEEP YOUR HOME COOL:
Stations free of charge all year round. This
gov.au or for more information go to
includes tree prunings, garden clippings and leaf • Use a fan
www.emergency.vic.gov.au or www.bendigo.vic.
litter. • Use the air-conditioner
gov.au/emergencyplanning and remember those
It’s also a good time to check that your air- who fail to plan - plan to fail! • Keep doors and windows closed
conditioner, fans and blinds are all in good during the day
working order to better cope with the hot • Close curtains and external blinds
weather. during the day
You should also decide where you will go to be • Cool your house at night by opening
safe, the best time to leave and how to prepare an windows and blinds
emergency kit in case of an emergency. • Use a thermometer
An emergency kit should have things like TAKE A BREAK:
important documents and phone numbers, • Even a short break from the heat will help
photos, personal details and information, clothing,
• Visit a friend or relative who has air-conditioning
medication, bottled water, etc. so that you are
ready to leave when you need to. • Visit an air-conditioned library or shopping centre
Be prepared, stay aware, and keep your mobile phone
charged and close by. If you live in a bushfire-prone
area listen to the radio to stay informed.
If you feel dizzy, nauseous, have a bad headache,
lose balance, get short of breath or just feel sick, call
Nurse on Call (1300 60 60 24), your doctor, or even an
ambulance (000). You are not bothering them and they
would prefer you call.
For more information visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.
au/heatwavehelp
18 COMMUNITYYou can also read
