St James Church January 2013 Second Hand Book Sale

There will be a huge secondhand book sale on 5 - 6 January 2013 to help with fundraising for the St James’ Church Hall.

It is being held next door in the Drysdale Community Activity Centre, Collins St, Drysdale.

Times: Saturday 9–5 and Sunday 10–4

Enquiries: 5251 2594

Refreshments are available

Entry is free   All abilities will have access

Website: www.bellarineparish.org

This is a wonderful opportunity to buy your holiday reading or a whole year’s worth of books and magazines at bargain prices.

Thousands of good quality second hand books (hard back and paperbacks), special interest magazines, comics, and some sheet music, all categorized and individually priced.

Special children’s section with low seating.

You are most welcome to come and browse all day or both days!


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Free Bushfire Preparedness Session Focusing on Horses

The CFA is hosting a free bushfire preparedness session focusing on horses and bushfire at the Mannerim CFA fire station in Banks Road, Mannerim on Thursday 17 January 2013 at 7.30pm.

Find out what you need to know to look after your horses if threatened by fire.

For more information please contact Niki Habibis on 5240 2717

If you belong to a community group or club, please contact Niki about arranging a customised session.

Draft Beacon Point Reserve Master Plan - have your say until 7 December

The City of Greater Geelong is developing a master plan for Beacon Point Reserve in Clifton Springs.

The reserve is a large, undeveloped space above the foreshore east of Beacon Point with views across the bay to the You Yangs.

 The purpose of the master plan is to provide direction for future improvements to the reserve.

 Following consultation with local community groups, the Draft Beacon Point Reserve Master Plan was developed and is currently on display for public comment.

 The closing date for written submissions is Friday 7 December 2012.

Drysdale Clifton Springs boundary realignment goes before Geelong Council this Tuesday night

The Geelong Council agenda for Tuesday 13 November 2012 has as agenda item 1 the proposed boundary realignment affecting Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis. Below is the extract from the agenda. - The complete agenda item is available in pdf format on the City of Greater Geelong's website.

1. PROPOSED BOUNDARY REALIGNMENT - DRYSDALE / CLIFTON SPRINGS & CURLEWIS
Portfolio: Democracy & Governance
Source: Corporate Services - Financial Services
General Manager: Jeff Wall
Index Reference: Subject/Roads, Footpaths & Streets

Summary

• Council considered a report on 8 May 2012 regarding a proposed boundaryrealignment of Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis and noted:

i) The commencement of a process of investigation and consultation to realign the locality boundaries between Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis.

ii) A further report be presented to Council with recommendations for adoption, following completion of the consultation process.

• Community consultation has occurred via correspondence and two public meetings held on 8 and 15 August 2012.

• In response to community sentiment a compromise position has been investigated for areas 1 and 2 relative to the original proposal.

• The adoption of the amended boundary realignment recommendations will commence the formal process to complete the boundary realignment in accordance with Geographic Naming requirements.

Recommendation

That Council resolves that:

1) Following an extensive process of investigation and consultation that the original proposed boundary realignments be amended whilst complying with Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010.

2) The boundary realignment proposal for area 1 be amended and described as follows:

Area 1 – Drysdale / Clifton Springs

To extend the boundary at the rear of the property known as 52 Delungra Avenue in an easterly direction to the south east corner of 54A Delungra Avenue, then continue the boundary north to intersect with the existing boundary at the rear of the property known as 7 Wintersun Court (Appendix 1-2).

3) Defer Area 2 boundary realignment (Appendix 1-3) on the basis that the proposed boundary was rejected by the majority of residents. Any future boundary realignment would be in response to potential land subdivision and take into account realignment options suggested by residents.

4) The boundary realignment for area 3, whereby the eastern boundary of Curlewis be moved eastward to run south along Jetty Road to intersect with the Geelong-Portarlington Road (Appendix 1-4), be confirmed.

5) The boundary realignment for area 4, whereby the eastern boundary of Curlewis be moved eastward to run south along Grubb Road to intersect with the current Wallington alignment (Appendix 1-4), be confirmed.

6) The boundary realignment process be completed in accordance with Geographic Naming requirements.

Report

Background

Councils are responsible for allocating geographic locality boundaries. On 16 February 2012, Council received advice from the Registrar of Geographic Names requesting that Council proceed with a boundary realignment between Drysdale and Clifton Springs, west of the Geelong–Portarlington Road, in the interests of public safety.

Principal 3(A) of the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010 stipulates that locality boundary should align with the cadastral fabric, road centre lines or easily distinguishable topographical features. In accordance with Section 3.2.1 of the guidelines, the Registrar may request Council to amend a locality boundary in the interests of public safety. Council must respond within 30 days and action the request within one council meeting of the initial response.

The locality boundary between Clifton Springs and Drysdale, west of the Geelong-Portarlington Road, passes through numerous properties in Wintersun Court and Narawi Avenue which is creating particular confusion for emergency and communication services (Appendix 1-2). It was considered timely to include a review of Curlewis, Clifton Springs and Drysdale boundaries, including Jetty Road and the areas south of the Geelong-Portarlington Road, west of Grubb Road at the same time.

Ambulance Victoria has emphasised the need for correct locality to avoid confusion in an emergency response situation. In this case, the locality boundary does not comply with Principal 3(A) – A locality boundary should align with the cadastral fabric, road centre lines or easily distinguishable topographical features.

The Registrar has been advised that any changes to locality boundaries should take into account significant urban growth within the localities and a realignment of boundaries should include a review of Curlewis, Clifton Springs and Drysdale boundaries.

Discussion

Council resolved on 8 May 2012 to commence a process of investigation and consultation to realign the locality boundaries between Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis.

The four proposals the public were invited to comment on are as follows:

Area 1 – the current eastern boundary of Clifton Springs alignment to be extended along Whitcombes Road to intersect with the Geelong–Portarlington Road intersection then continue north easterly along this roadway.

This zone has the highest priority for realignment, given instruction received from the Registrar of Geographic Names.

Area 2 – to extend part of the southern boundary of Clifton Springs, to run south along Jetty Road, east on Wyndham Street, north on Barrands Lane, east on Nash Avenue then north along Clifton Springs Road (Appendix 1-3).

At present, a section of the boundary cuts through several parcels, another section passes through the back of titles and in future may potentially pass through the centre of a proposed retirement village.

Area 3 – the eastern boundary of Curlewis be moved eastward to run south along Jetty Road to intersect with the Geelong-Portarlington Road (Appendix 1-4). The current boundary cuts through several property titles. Additionally, a residential development is occurring west of Jetty Road. Moving the locality boundary to align with the Jetty Road centre line will best represent this growth and comply with the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010.

Area 4 – the eastern boundary of Curlewis be moved eastward to run south along Grubb Road to intersect with the current Wallington alignment (Appendix 1-4).

Once again, the current boundary cuts through several property titles. Therefore, moving the locality boundary to align with Grubb Road will comply with the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010 by aligning the boundary to a road and allow for future growth that may occur.

The proposed new alignments comply with Principal 3(A) of the Department of Sustainability and Environment Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010.

During May and June, letters were sent to affected residents inviting feedback and completion of a survey by 26 June on the boundary realignment proposals. Cr Rod Macdonald and Jeff Wall (General Manager – Corporate Services) met with some residents on 28 June to answer specific questions.

In July, local Ministers of Parliament were also notified about the proposed realignment.

Survey responses were collated and two information sessions held at the Potato Shed in Drysdale on 8 and 15 August 2012. These sessions were well attended by the local residents. Councillors Rod Macdonald and Cr John Doull were present. The meeting outlined the boundary realignment proposals for the four areas, explaining why they were recommended, provided a summary of survey results and addressed resident concerns. Public discussion took place with particular focus on areas 1 and 2, including alternatives suggested by residents. Karl Morrison (Geospatial Information Services Officer) and Terry Marshall (Ambulance Victoria, Barwon Group Manager) were also invited to speak at the information sessions and assisted answering questions raised by residents.

The table below summarises survey responses received:

Area	Invited Comments	Agree with Proposal	Do Not Agree with proposal	No response received
1	210	41	59	110
2	356	16	255	85
3	124	36	9	79
4	12	2	2	8

Significant responses were received for areas 1 and 2 suggesting a number of alternative options. A signed petition was also received from affected residents in area 1.

The following summarises resident concerns:

Area	Resident Concerns
1	Properties accessed from Geelong-Portarlington Road should remain as Drysdale – large rural allotments that have no access via Clifton Springs Valuations will decrease. Legal documentation (eg. effect on Property Title, etc.). Emergency service difficulties need to be fully understood. Inconvenience – notification to family, friends and organisations.
2	Valuations will decrease if they become Clifton Springs Emergency service difficulties – no cases cited. Emergency services have GPS Inconvenience – notification to family, friends and organisations Proposal takes the boundary close to Drysdale Primary School, Drysdale shopping precinct and Drysdale Football Club.
3 & 4	No major concerns raised.

Councillors and officers met internally on 10 September to decide the best options, with the following recommendations:

Area 1 – Amend original proposal to read:

"To extend the boundary at the rear of the property known as 52 Delungra Avenue in an easterly direction to the south east corner of 54A Delungra Avenue, then continue the boundary north to intersect with the existing boundary at the rear of the property known as 7 Wintersun Court." Refer Appendix 1-2.

This realignment will remove 167 properties from Drysdale to become Clifton Springs. This represents a compromised position and has been reached as per resident's concerns and petition.

Due to a proposed subdivision to the east of this new boundary line, a risk exists where Delungra Avenue will extend through two suburbs, namely Clifton Springs and Drysdale. This would repeat the current anomaly existing whereby a number of properties in Wintersun Court and Narawi Avenue cross over two suburbs.

Council officers will continue to discuss the proposed plan of subdivision with the property owner to ensure an acceptable outcome. It is essential that if there is no proposed access from Portarlington Road to the subdivision, that access from Delungra Avenue, Clifton Springs continues via a new road name into Drysdale.

This amended proposal enables Council to realign the boundary along the fence-line of the properties as requested by the majority of affected Drysdale residents and is in accordance with residents petition dated 4 August 2012. This amended realignment would meet the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010.

Area 2 – This proposal caused the most opposition from residents and is rejected as inappropriate. It is recommended not to continue with alternative proposals and to defer this boundary realignment. It is relevant that the proposed subdivision off Central Road for a retirement village has been delayed.

Area 3 – Proceed with proposal to move the eastern boundary of Curlewis eastward to run south along Jetty Road to intersect with the Geelong-Portarlington Road (Appendix 1-4).

Area 4 – proceed with proposal to move the eastern boundary of Curlewis eastward to run south along Grubb Road to intersect with the current Wallington alignment (Appendix 1-4).

Environmental Implications

There are no environmental issues arising from this report.

Financial Implications

Council offers a standard assistance package to residents when their property address is altered. This assistance package consists of 10 postage paid envelopes and 10 change of address forms. Other assistance may be offered on a case by case basis.

These costs will be within operating budget levels.

Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The Geographic Place Names Act 1998, the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010 and Council Policy have been followed and met.

Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

There is no officer direct or indirect interest in this report.

Risk Assessment

Council's proposal to realign these boundaries will minimise the risk of emergency services not being able to locate newly created properties.

Social Considerations

The realignment of these boundaries will allow for easy identification to the public and utility services in case of an emergency.

Communication

Submissions received will be responded to in accordance with recommendations contained in this report. Council's website will also outline recommendations contained in this report.

Drysdale and Clifton Springs - Have Your Say

The SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a town summit to enable the Drysdale and Clifton Springs communities to have their say on the future development of the towns and their local amenities.

They are asking you to donate half an hour to your community.

You will be able to view the Economic Development Plan, Streetscape to Artscape, cycling connections, urban design framework, the bypass proposed for Drysdale and more...

The town summit will take the form of an open house at SpringDale from Friday 16 November from 1pm and finish on Monday 19 November at 10am.

All residents will be able to have a say on many issues facing our community at this point in time and informing our Councillors and hopefully the Mayor of our community’s aspirations for the next 4 years as they prepare the City Plan for the next 4 years.

More information is available from the SpringDale.

Another Cyclist Hit by a Car on Murradoc Road

Saturday morning another cyclist was hit on Murradoc Road in Drysdale - this time the driver did not stop.

Hit-run rider left for dead, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, October 29th, 2012. "A Cyclist who was hit by a car on one of the Bellarine's most dangerous roads has pleaded for the public's help to find the driver who almost killed him. Andrew McKendry was riding in a 100km/h zone on Murradoc Rd, between St Leonards and Drysdale, when he was struck from behind by a passing car about 10.30am on Saturday. He said he was flung from his bike and left bleeding in a roadside ditch, screaming for help.

It has been 21 months since a cyclist was killed on Murradoc Road out side my house. That day is forever etched in my memory.

So far nothing has been done to make Murradoc Road safer for cyclists.

Murradoc Road is a Victorian government funded road - VicRoads has the responsibility to fix it.  It is not obviously high on their list of priorities.

So what price do you put on a human life - fortunately Andrew McKendry will live to ride another day. He was lucky.  What about the next person?

Geelong Council want you to have your say on the Environment

The Geelong Council is running an online survey for residents to have their say on the Geelong region's environment.

The survey runs from 19 October 2012 to 16 November 2012.

The Council are developing a new plan to help guide them in making future decisions about our environment.

They are asking:

• What is important to you about our local environment
• What concerns you have, and
• Your ideas for action
• Your ideas will help us develop the next Environment Management Strategy

My ten cents worth:

• Retain our rural spaces, 
• Put in bicycle paths, 
• Contain town development, and 
• Get a new tip to take the pressure off  Drysdale so that we don't have all these trucks going past our front doors.

Fill in the survey at: Have Your Say on Geelong’s Environment

Discounted Microchipping and Pet Registration at Drysdale

Geelong Council is offering to microchip your pets for only $15* plus registration.

Bring your pets to be microchipped and/or registered.

Animal Officers will be at Springdale Community Hall, 17-21 High Street, Drysdale on Wednesday 21 November from 4:30pm - 7:00pm

*Conditions apply.

This microchipping service is available for:

• Existing registered pets. 
• Pets being microchipped and registered on the day. 
• Pets that reside outside the City of Greater Geelong. 
• Registration fees for pets vary between $10 - $22. 
• Pets cannot be microchipped only (unless an existing registered pet). 

More information available from: Geelong Council

Geelong City Council Elections 2012 Candidate Statements for Cheetham and Coriyule Wards

The Victorian Electoral Commission has published the candidate statements for each person standing in the City of Greater Geelong election this month.

Cheetham Ward (1 vacancy)

BRACKLEY, Anne Elizabeth

Walking and visiting every street and road in Cheetham Ward adds to my lifetime of knowledge of the Bellarine. Growing up on a Bellarine farm and transport depot, travelling to work in Melbourne, being a partner in a small business and Coordinator of SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre has given me a wide range of lifestyle experiences. Serving the local community as Convenor of the Bunyip Festival, Guide Leader, President and Treasurer of many organisations including School Council President Bellarine Secondary College continues to be rewarding. School Council President Nelson Park School, Treasurer Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres and member of the Future Proofing Geelong Small to Medium Enterprise Reference Group has enabled me to serve the wider community. As Councillor I will fairly represent and advocate for the residents, businesses, rural areas and towns of Cheetham Ward and strive for a fair share for our part of the beautiful Bellarine.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
1 BRACKLEY, Anne Elizabeth
2 MACDONALD, Rod

MACDONALD, Rod

Vote 1 Rod Macdonald. Your support is needed to continue the progress achieved over the past four years. In consultation with our community, I have worked hard to deliver a range of important community projects including the new Allanvale kindergarten, Drysdale library upgrade, oval lighting at Memorial Park, netball court and lights at Drysdale Reserve and significant improvements to the Bellarine Rail Trail. The Leopold Community Hub is in design phase. A master plan for the sub-regional sporting precinct in Anderson Road is approved and stage1 design is complete. I will continue to advocate for economic development opportunities. Land has been identified in both Drysdale and Leopold to facilitate new businesses and planning for a sub-regional shopping centre in Leopold is well advanced. I also undertake to continue my strong support for local community organisations, sporting and service clubs and be available to assist residents with council matters.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 BRACKLEY, Anne Elizabeth
1 MACDONALD, Rod

Coryule Ward (1 vacancy)

ELLIS, Lindsay

Lindsay John Ellis. Age 63. Wife Vickie. One daughter. Four grandchildren. Family ties to the Bellarine Peninsula since 1857. Resident of Portarlington 40 years. Proprietor Hogan Print, publisher of The Port Report. Member of Portarlington Business Development Association, PCA, FootballNetball Club. Sponsor of Portarlington and St.Leonards Bowls Clubs. Chairman Australia Day Committee Portarlington. As a local I am fully aware of the needs and aspirations of individuals and community groups in Coryule Ward. I offer strong, independent representation for ratepayers, and can guarantee ready and regular communication in all matters concerning the COGG. I firmly believe in fair and balanced distribution of COGG finances amongst all wards. I am a local who strongly believes in our community. Ratepayers of Coryule Ward deserve a fair, equitable and robust voice to ensure delivery of services, with accountability, from the COGG. If elected I guarantee to serve our community honestly and faithfully.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
1 ELLIS, Lindsay
2 O'CONNOR, Tom
3 KENNEDY, Dean
5 HAYES, Monica
4 BALDACCHINO, Judith

O'CONNOR, Tom

From starting my working life as a Quantity Surveyor, I went on to start my own businesses in Geelong specialising in vitreous enamelling, screen printing and cryogenic grinding. I have been actively involved in local sporting clubs including football, surf life saving and the Drysdale pony club. I am a competitive open water swimmer and established the Wreck2Reef Open Water Swim Classic. As an active cyclist, I recognised the need for cyclist safety and helped establish Bike Safe on the Bellarine. As Executive Director, Committee for Bellarine, I promote the Buy Bellarine campaign to support our local producers. I am passionate about the north Bellarine. It must remain an environmentally safe and sustainable place to live and visit. We must keep and grow our primary and commercial industries or risk losing them along with local employment. We must determine our own growth and development.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 ELLIS, Lindsay
1 O'CONNOR, Tom
3 KENNEDY, Dean
4 HAYES, Monica
5 BALDACCHINO, Judith

KENNEDY, Dean

I'm asking for your vote to ensure we have a strong voice on the new council. For too long there has been a perception that our council is Geelong-centric and ignores the plight of the northern Bellarine. We need a local councillor who is passionate about the Bellarine, has a fresh, strong voice and is prepared to stand up and make sure we are no longer ignored. To me, a councillor's role is all about serving the community, giving us a voice and getting our fair share of funding. I'm proud to say I live and work locally, so I'll be accessible as your local councillor. I want to ensure our new council makes decisions based on common sense, a fair go and has the vision to make the northern Bellarine and Geelong region a fantastic place to work, live and play. To contact me, call 5259 3828 or email dean@vote1kennedy.com.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 ELLIS, Lindsay
3 O'CONNOR, Tom
1 KENNEDY, Dean
5 HAYES, Monica
4 BALDACCHINO, Judith

HAYES, Monica

With your support I will take on the urgent challenges facing Coryule Ward. These include upgrading ageing infrastructure, fairer across the board service provision, a balanced approach to development and an equitable spending of rate revenue. Our unique natural resources demand careful planning in the interests of the whole community. Sustainable tourism and development alongside growing local industry and job opportunities need encouragement. Twenty years ago I chose to raise my young family on the beautiful Bellarine, moving from metropolitan Moonee Ponds where I had spent 6 years as an elected councillor at the City of Essendon, including one as Mayor. Always actively involved in the community, I well understand how local government works. My professional qualifications and experience combine clinical psychology with ergonomics. Recent work in multicultural mental health also adds to my communication and policy-making skills. This council election, use your vote to restore the balance.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
3 ELLIS, Lindsay
4 O'CONNOR, Tom
5 KENNEDY, Dean
1 HAYES, Monica
2 BALDACCHINO, Judith

BALDACCHINO, Judith

I am focussing on the concerns and activities of local residents. There are several projects already underway to enhance and protect our sensitive environment. These projects, including cliff protection works, revegetation and landscaping on our foreshores need to be sustained, expanded and funded appropriately. As a councillor endorsed by the Australian Greens, I will be working to ensure that these projects are just the beginning of a cohesive program. Many residents are involved in working extensively for the community and environment. I will work to provide support for our generous volunteers and community leaders. Coryule Ward encompasses some of the best fishing spots, artists and community arts and craftspeople, family friendly beaches and parks, wineries and restaurants, shops and businesses. I will be working to conserve both the natural environment and our vibrant community. I will be ensuring that all residents have access to participating in further projects.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
3 ELLIS, Lindsay
4 O'CONNOR, Tom
5 KENNEDY, Dean
2 HAYES, Monica
1 BALDACCHINO, Judith

Who is standing in the Council Elections for Drysdale

The townships of Drysdale and Clifton Springs are split into two wards.

The following info has been extracted from the Victorian Electoral Commission. Candidate statements will be published on the VEC website the week commencing Tuesday, 2 October 2012.

Cheetham (includes Leopold and Drysdale)

BRACKLEY, Anne Elizabeth	Anne Elizabeth Brackley Business Hours: (03) 5253 1960 Mobile: 0407 529 205 AnneBrackley@gmail.com
MACDONALD, Rod	Rod Macdonald Mobile: 0488 509 994 council@rodmacdonald.com.au

Coriyule (includes parts of  Drysdale and Clifton Springs, Portarlington, Indented Head)

ELLIS, Lindsay	Lindsay Ellis Business Hours: (03) 5259 2984 Mobile: 0438 535 164 lindsay@portarlingtonoz.com
O'CONNOR, Tom	Tom O'Connor Mobile: 0458 293 695 tom.oconnor@mail.com
KENNEDY, Dean	Dean Kennedy Business Hours: (03) 5259 3828 dean@vote1kennedy.com
HAYES, Monica	Jenny Wills Business Hours: (03) 5259 2032 jenwills@vtown.com.au
BALDACCHINO, Judith	Judith Maria Baldaccino Mobile: 0407 518 243 judithmbaldacchino@gmail.com

Ballot packs are to be mailed to all enrolled voters from October 9-11 with postal voting to close on October 26.

Drysdale Girls Night In - Friday 5th October

Curves is hosting a Girls Night In on Friday 5th October from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Drysdale Primary School Community Hall.

Be pampered from head to toe.  Lots of stalls to browse. Get a massage, have your eyebrows waxed, get your nails painted , buy clothing and much, much more...

Each service costs $5.

There will be auctions, fashion parade and entertainment.

Entry to the event costs $15 per person.

Money goes towards Breast Cancer research/support.

Tickets are available from Curves - Village Walk, 6-8/21 Clifton Springs Road, Drysdale.

Drysdale Urban Design Framework on Agenda for Council meeting this coming Tuesday

Update: Drysdale Urban Design Framework adopted - Media Release - City of Greater Geelong

Tuesday, 28 August 2012 4:00 PM

"Council has formally adopted the Drysdale Urban Design Framework, and will ask the Minister for Planning for authorisation to prepare an amendment enabling the UDF to be incorporated into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme..."

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Geelong Council will consider the Drysdale Urban Design Framework at their next meeting on Tuesday 28 August 2012. Below is an extract from the agenda. The complete agenda item is available in pdf format (6mb) from the council website.

DRYSDALE URBAN DESIGN FRAMEWORK ADOPTION AND AUTHORISATION TO PREPARE AND EXHIBIT AN AMENDMENT
Portfolio: Planning - Cr Macdonald
Source: Economic Development Planning & Tourism
General Manager: Peter Bettess
Index Reference: Drysdale Urban Design Framework

Summary

• The Drysdale-Clifton Springs Structure Plan identified the need to improve the functionality and layout of the Drysdale Town Centre given the town is expected to grow by approximately 13,913 people over the next 20 to 30 years. The Structure Plan recommended that Council prepare an Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the town centre
• A two day Enquiry by Design (EbD) workshop was held in December 2011. The City of Greater Geelong invited a diverse range of stakeholders from across State Government, key agencies and the Drysdale community to attend. The ideas and concepts captured during the workshop have been incorporated into the development of an UDF for the Drysdale Town Centre.
• The UDF seeks to provide guidance on future growth and development, built form, streetscapes, traffic and pedestrian movements, car parking and land use. The UDF will provide a vision for how the town might develop, provide flexible design principles and recommend improvements to existing infrastructure and functionality of the town. The UDF will also assist in the assessment of future development proposals.
• The UDF was placed on informal exhibition for a 6 week period from 4 June until 13 July 2012. Letters were sent to all attendees of the EbD workshop, owners and occupiers of land within the study area and the properties directly abutting the study area. Two community information sessions were held with approximately 30-40 people attending each session. A total of 24 submissions were received.
• The key concerns raised within the submission were the timing for the development of the Drysdale Bypass, high traffic volumes along High Street, removal of pedestrian lights in High Street, removal of the Murradoc Road roundabout and replacement with traffic lights, increase in traffic generated by the closure of the Corio tip, pedestrian and bicycle movements, concern over redevelopment of the senior citizens building and the consultation process was not long enough.
• The submissions have been considered and the necessary changes have been made to the UDF. To give statutory effect to the UDF, Council must adopt it and proceed to introduce it into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.

Recommendation

That Council:
1) adopt the Drysdale Urban Design Framework (UDF);
2) request authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare an amendment to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme;
3) resolve, subject to the grant of authorisation, to exhibit an amendment to introduce the recommendation of the UDF into the Planning Scheme.

Report

Background

The current Drysdale-Clifton Springs Structure Plan was adopted by Council in September 2010. The Structure Plan identified the need to improve the functionality and layout of the Drysdale Town Centre given the town is expected to grow by approximately 13,913 people over the next 20 to 30 years. The Structure Plan recommended that Council prepare an Urban Design Framework for the town centre.

The City of Greater Geelong engaged Beveridge Williams, Design Urban, TTM Consulting, and Urbacity (the consultant team) to conduct an Enquiry by Design process for the Drysdale Town Centre. This two day workshop was held in December 2011. The City of Greater Geelong invited a diverse range of stakeholders from across State Government, key agencies and the Drysdale community to attend. The ideas and concepts captured during the workshop were recorded and a report prepared. Thereport used both written and visual elements to portray the ideas and concepts and over arching principles.

The UDF seeks to further expand on the ideas and concepts developed during the EbD process to develop an overall concept for the town centre. The UDF divides the town into 4 precincts, Town Entry South, Town Centre Core, Town Entry North and Business Corridor. It also investigates the possible development of 7 key sites. The opportunities and constraints for each of the 4 precincts and key development sites were looked at based on the information gathered during the EbD process and from Council Departments and external stakeholders. This information was then used to further develop design concepts for each of the precincts and key sites. See Appendix 1-1 for a map showing the study area and precinct boundaries.
For each of the 4 precincts the UDF seeks to provide guidance on future growth and development, built form, streetscapes, traffic and pedestrian movements, car parking and land use. The UDF will provide a vision for how the town might develop, provide flexible design principles and recommend improvements to existing infrastructure and functionality of the town.

The key sites have also been looked at to determine how they could be best developed taking into consideration location, traffic and parking matters, connections with adjoining land uses, building height/built form and pedestrian movements. The UDF also recommends Design and Development Overlay controls to be developed for inclusion into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to help guide development into the future.

The UDF also makes a number of changes to improve the long term growth and development of the town centre. The recommended changes include:

• Extension of the Business 1 Zoned land long Murradoc Road to allow for specialty retail, a new supermarket and better integration between the existing Aldi Supermarket and the town centre.
• Extension of the Business 4 Zone up to the Drysdale Bypass to expand the Drysdale business precinct.
• The retention of the Drysdale Bowling Club in its current location. It is recommended that a supermarket be constructed in Murradoc Road instead of the bowling club site as it would create a consolidated car parking area with Aldi, improve linkages to the town centre by encouraging the development of adjacent speciality shops and the creation of new road connections linking central walk to Murradoc Road.
• The removal of the round-about and replacement with traffic lights at the High Street and Murradoc Road intersection to facilitate improved vehicle and pedestrian movements.
• The development of foot and bicycle paths consistent with Council's existing strategies.
• The development of a streetscape master plan for Murradoc Road to incorporate street tree planting, road widening and a centre median strip.

Discussion

The UDF was placed on informal exhibition for a 6 week period from the 4 June until 13 July 2012. Letters were sent to all attendees of the EbD workshop, owners and occupiers of land within the study area and the properties directly abutting the study area. Two community information sessions were held with approximately 30-40 people attending each session. A total of 24 submissions were received.

The issues raised during the information sessions and through submissions relate to the timing for the development of the Drysdale Bypass, high traffic volumes along High Street, removal of pedestrian lights in High Street, removal of the Murradoc Road round-about and replacement with traffic lights, increase in traffic generated by the closure of the Corio tip, pedestrian and bicycle movements, concern over redevelopment of the senior citizens building and the consultation process was not long enough.
A response to the submissions is found at Appendix 1-2. The key issues raised within the submissions are responded to below with all submissions documented within the Appendix to this report.

Drysdale Bypass

Officer comment
The Drysdale bypass is located to the east of the township linking Andersons Road with Portarlington Road, by passing the town centre. The bypass is located within a Public Acquisition Overlay. VicRoads have advised that approximately 50% of the land within the Public Acquisition Overlay has been acquired and the road is estimated to cost $80 million. Traffic counts collected by Council in May 2011 show that High Street carries approximately 16,332 vehicles per day. The timing for the delivery of the bypass road has not been determined however VicRoads have advised that they have recently re-commenced analysis and planning for the Drysdale bypass but it is likely the road will not be constructed for at least 10-15 years.

The bypass road was considered by the community to be the main factor in improving traffic movement, safety and amenity throughout the town particularly given the recent increase in truck movements to and from the Drysdale tip. Submissions suggested that new development within Drysdale should not occur until the bypass is constructed so that the traffic and amenity situation along High Street does not get any worse. Drysdale-Clifton Springs has a significant amount of planned residential growth and to limit the development of additional retailing and business uses within the town centre until the bypass is constructed has the potential to significantly impact on the quality and number of services the township may need to support a growing population. The UDF recognises the importance of constructing the Drysdale bypass and its potential to remove a significant amount of traffic from the town centre particularly during the peak holiday periods. The plan relies on the bypass being constructed to help deliver several key concepts including the widening of Murradoc Road and new traffic measures along High Street. The UDF acknowledges that the construction of the bypass will ultimately be delivered by VicRoads and the State Government and is subject to funding commitments. However, VicRoads have advised they will engage with Council in the upcoming planning and analysis phase they are currently undertaking providing Council with an opportunity to encourage VicRoads to look at the timing for the development of the bypass.

Changes to pedestrian traffic lights and the Murradoc Road round-about

Officer comment
The existing pedestrian lights located within High Street and the Murradoc Road roundabout were considered by the community to slow the flow of traffic down and cause gridlock during peak traffic times. Investigations during the EbD workshop indicated that a round-about is not the most efficient way to move traffic during peak times because they allow for a constant flow of traffic without creating the necessary breaks to allow vehicles from side streets to access the main flow of traffic. Traffic lights were considered to be the most appropriate way to provide the necessary breaks in traffic flows to keep traffic moving.
Traffic lights would also improve the walkability of the town centre by creating addition safe places to cross High Street. The location of the traffic lights would also improve pedestrian safety between the east and west sides of the town centre improving connections between the existing services and the Aldi Supermarket.
Council and VicRoads would need to work together to improve the traffic flows through the town as part of the overall planning for the development of the bypass. However it is recommended that the round-about be replaced with traffic lights regardless of the timing for the construction of the Drysdale Bypass to improve pedestrian movement throughout the town. Funding for the construction of traffic lights is currently not available but should be looked as part of an overall concept for developing the town square and Murradoc Road.

VicRoads have advised that the replacement of the pedestrian lights in High Street with flashing lights would impact on traffic flows and could actually further slow traffic down. It is a combination of the round-about and the pedestrian lights that create the current slowing of traffic along High Street. The UDF does not advocate the replacement of these pedestrian lights and again this matter would be further investigated as an overall concept for the bypass and Murradoc Road was developed.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Movement

Officer comment
The community raised concerns that the UDF did not adequately address this issue. The UDF identifies the locations within the study area where there are gaps in footpath construction. The plan advocates for footpaths to be constructed in these locations. It is anticipated that where new development occurs adjacent to sites without footpaths, that the developer would construct the footpath. In locations where it is unlikely that a site would be redeveloped Council has a number of strategies, including special rates and charges schemes that could be utilised to construct the footpaths as the need arises.

Council has developed the City of Greater Geelong Cycle Strategy. This document was developed to provide Council with guidance on expanding Geelong's on and off road cycle network, improving bicycle facilities, enhancing cyclist education and delivering promotions that encourage people to cycle as a means of transport, recreation and sport. The document details improvements to the bicycle network in and around Drysdale. The study area is in part affected by the recommendations of this strategy and it is recommended that they be incorporated into the UDF.

Redevelopment of the Senior Citizens Building

Officer comment
In 2008 Council investigated the possible redevelopment of the Drysdale Senior Citizens Building which is located adjacent to the town square. At that time it was proposed to develop a multi purpose building which could include a new Library, customer service centre and meeting space/function rooms. Since this time Council has upgraded the existing library and customer service centre located in Hancock Street which has taken pressure off the need to up grade these services. The site may still be re-developed as a multi purpose building in the future, but the design and timing of the redevelopment would be subject to a further community consultation process which is not part of the development of the UDF.

Environmental Implications

The future implementation of the UDF is not expected to result in any adverse environmental impacts. The UDF supports the development of water sensitive urban design treatments to improve the quality of stormwater runoff being generated from new development particularly the industrial precinct along Murradoc Road. This should help to improve the water quality at Lake Lorne.

Financial Implications

The eventual implementation of the UDF is likely to require Council funding contributions for several projects identified within the UDF including streetscape works, the re-development of the town square and public buildings. The UDF projects will need to be fully costed and may result in future budget bids to Council and to external funding agencies. There are also several aspects to the plan that could be delivered through developer contributions

Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

After its subsequent adoption by Council, the policies and outcomes of the UDF will need to be incorporated into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme. A Planning Scheme Amendment will be prepared to revise Clause 21.14 – The Bellarine Peninsula of the Municipal Strategic Statement to reflect the outcomes of the UDF. A minor review of the wording of the existing Drysdale Commercial Heritage Area Policy will also occur to ensure a cohesive link between the UDF and the heritage controls. Two Design and Development Overlay Controls will be introduced over the town centre and industrial precinct. There may also be developer requests to rezone land along Murradoc Road in accordance with the recommendations of the UDF.

Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Council officers have any direct or indirect interest, in accordance with Section 80(C) of the Local Government Act to which this UDF relates.

Risk Assessment

There are no notable risks in adopting the Drysdale Urban Design Framework

Social Considerations

The UDF includes proposals that will deliver significant long term social benefits to Drysdale community. These include increased retail choice and offer through expansion of the shopping centre and industrial precincts and providing improved streetscapes, traffic and pedestrian access throughout the town centre. The UDF will create a new civic precinct including a town square so that it becomes a focus for social interaction within the town.

Communication

The draft Drysdale UDF was made available for public comment for a six week period from 1 June until 13 July 2012. The UDF documents were available at the Drysdale Customer Service Centre and on the City's web site. Two community information sessions were held on the 18 and 23 June 2012. Approximately 30-40 people attended each session. Letters were also sent to affected properties, EbD attendees and surrounding property owners. Notice of the amendment will be given in accordance with the requirements of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Drysdale Real Estate on the increase

Geelong Advertiser property put the spotlight on Drysdale this week

Capital growth in houses has increased 29.4% over the past 5 years.  Capital growth in units has increased 13.2%.

Median prices for houses to May 2012 were $365,000 and Units $265,000.

The population in 2010 was 4,323.

Drysdale - Clifton Springs Road Drainage Works Start 20 August

The Geelong Council has awarded a contract for drainage works in Clifton Springs Road which will start on 20 August

Excerpt from news release below:

Drysdale drainage works contract awarded, Wednesday, 15 August 2012 12:08 PM

"Jaydo Construction Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to undertake drainage works under roads within Clifton Springs Road, Carolanne Drive and Wyndham Street in Drysdale.

At last night's meeting City of Greater Councillors agreed to accept the well known major drainage contractor’s tender submission. The works will include the installation of main and ancillary drains along with pits/access chambers, an overflow/outlet structure, side entry structures/pits, kerb and channel, median and road surfacing reinstatement and restoration of grassed areas.

The total cost of the works is fixed at $2,406,061...

Works are expected to begin next week, and Clifton Springs Road will be closed in sections from High Street roundabout to just north of Hancock Street between Monday 20 August and Thursday 30 August..."

Geelong Council consults but does not listen?

The Geelong Advertiser (print edition Thursday 16 August 2012 p. 10) reports that Geelong Council will proceed with the boundary changes affecting Clifton Springs and Drysdale despite significant opposition by affected residents to the proposed change.

"President of the Drysdale Clifton Springs Community Association Doug Carson described the council's proposal as overkill to a problem which could be easily solved.

"They're using a sledge hammer to crack a walnut," he said. "The current boundary runs across a paddock so they should focus on one street; one side should be Clifton Springs and one side Drysdale."

"Cr Mcdonald said the boundaries would change in spite of public objections, although the public meetings allowed residents' concerns to be heard.

"I can understand people concerned about places having a name change but we are still obliged to meet the guidelines and regulations..."

Geelong Council gave affected residents the opportunity to vote by return mail as to whether they were opposed to or supported the change of boundaries. Those that did not vote where taken to have been in support of the boundary changes. However, non participation should never equal a yes vote.

From the meetings held there is significant interest by affected residents who appear to be opposed to the boundary change.

I wonder whether Geelong Council will release the results of the postal vote. How open and transparent will they be with this vote?

It is great that the Council wishes to consult affected residents, but should they not be open and accountable to the process they have instigated. Consulting for the hell of it is worse than not consulting at all. Seems all they have done here is said yes we consulted.

So come on Geelong Council - what are the results of the postal vote you conducted on this issue? Will you listen to the residents or will just steam roll ahead regardless?

Part of Coriyule Road to be renamed Appleby Street

Geelong Council wants to rename part of Coriyule Road at the Jetty Road end Appleby Street.

You can "have your say" on the Geelong Council website until 3 September 2012

Below is a map showing the proposed change

VicRoads preparing a Drysdale bypass study

The Geelong Advertiser reports today - Drysdale bypass next step, by Peter Begg, August 2nd, 2012:

"The State Government has embarked on a study into a bypass road for Drysdale, with the results expected by the end of this year.

Cr Rod Macdonald said the council wrote to the Roads Minister Terry Mulder and he had replied that VicRoads was doing an assessment of the potential benefits of a Drysdale bypass.

"They expect the review to be completed by December," he said...

Last month, a local community group urged local politicians to support the building of a Drysdale ring road.

Drysdale-Clifton Springs Community Association secretary Patrick Hughes said his group wanted councillors and MPs to support the bypass as a priority.

The proposed road would skirt Drysdale to the east from Whitcombes Rd to Andersons Rd, diverting traffic away from busy High St..."

Read more at: Drysdale bypass next step.

Geelong Council Reviewing Plans for Drysdale boundary changes

The Geelong Advertiser today (25 July 2012) in an article entitled: "Line in sand drawn on boundaries", by Peter Begg, reports that:

"City Hall plans for a possible realignment of the boundaries between Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis are headed back to the drawing board after residents' concerns.

Ward councillor Rod Macdonald said concerns were raised at a public meeting two weeks ago about an area that would have switched from Drysdale to Clifton Springs...

In the area in question, part of Drysdale north of Wyndham St between Jetty Rd and Barrands Land, was to have become Clifton Springs. but residents wanted to remain part of Drysdale...

The State Registrar of Geographic Names called on the council to proceed with a boundary realignment between Drysdale and Clifton Springs, west of the Geelong-Portarlington Road.

The council has told the State Registrar that any changes to boundaries should account for significant urban growth in the localities and advised that a realignment should include a review of the boundaries between
Curlewis, Clifton Springs and Drysdale...

The council has emphasised throughout the process that no decisions will be made on the proposed realignment until investigations and thorough community engagement have been completed."

The complete articles is available in today's print edition on page 17.

New Drysdale Tip Fees

Geelong Council has put the Drysdale Tip fees up again.

The new fees are posted on their Drysdale Resource Recovery Centre page.

A car boot load now costs $17, single axle trailer (waterline) $34 and heaped $44; a tandem trailer (waterline) $44 and heaped $88.

Trailer charges are based on $44 per cubic metre.

Geelong Council Finalises Princess Street Drysdale special charge scheme for footpaths

In Tuesday's agenda for the City of Greater Geelong council meeting there is an agenda item for the finalisation of the Princess Street, Drysdale special charge for footpath and kerb and channel in Princess Street, Drysdale between Eversley Street and Newcombe Street.

Below is an extract from the Agenda:

Princess Street, Drysdale - SRC 325 - Finalisation of Scheme

Portfolio: Infrastructure - Cr Richards
Source: City Services - Engineering Services
General Manager: Gary Van Driel

Index Reference: Special Rates and Charges; Princess Street, Drysdale

Summary

• This report relates to the finalisation of a Special Charge Scheme for construction of footpath and kerb and channel in Princess Street, Drysdale between Eversley Street and Newcombe Street.

• Council declared the charge for this scheme on 10 August 2010.

• The scheme involves 8 property owners and the works were a combination of both footpath and kerb and channel. Council undertook pavement works and drainage.

• The cost to be distributed to owners which matches the estimated cost was $38,461 and owners costs vary between $2,977 and $10,464. Council constructed additional pavement and drainage works as part of the project at a cost of $90,808. • The scheme has been prepared in accordance with the Special Rates and Charges provisions of the Local Government Act along with Council's Special Rates and Charges Policy.

• The report seeks a resolution by Council to confirm the special charge for the works to finalise the Princess Street, Drysdale Special Charge Scheme. The process is shown in Attachment 7-1 – Process Chart.

Recommendation

That Council having declared a special charge on 10 August 2010 for the purposes of defraying the expenses in relation to the construction of footpath, kerb and channel and road widening in Princess Street Drysdale, west side between Eversley Street and Newcombe Street, Drysdale (Appendix 7-2 – Plan) in accordance with Section 163 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) resolves that:

1) the special charge as declared be confirmed in accordance with actual costs incurred on the project as required by Section 166 of the Act as shown in Schedule A – Appendix 7-1;

2) the General Manager of Corporate Services is authorised to levy and recover the special charges by sending notices to the persons who are liable to pay in accordance with Section 166 of the Act and the Regulations; and;

3) in accordance with Section 172, the rate of interest which is payable on the special charges which have not been paid by the specified date is set at Council's overdraft rate, reviewed every three months (provided that it shall not exceed the rate fixed by the Governor in Council by Order for the purposes of Section 172 2A in which case the rate of interest shall be the maximum fate fixed by the Governor in Council by Order for the purposes of the Section). The interest is to be calculated from the date the special charge is due, with a six months interest free period, providing those persons who choose to pay by instalments adhere to their repayment plan.

The complete report is available from the Geelong Council Agenda - 10 July 2012 - in pdf format (1374kb). (This document requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Drysdale Clifton Springs Press Articles, June 5 - July 5, 2012

Thieves target cards, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, July 5, 2012. "Cars in Drysdale and Clifton Springs have been targeted by vandals. Residents on Barrands Lane and Mirrabooka Drive reported having their tyres slashed on Friday night, while overnight Monday theives stole hub caps from cars on nearby Central Rd... Senior ConstableJohn Shields of Drysdale Police, said it was likely victims across the Bellarine Peninsula were yet to report similar incidents to police... anyone with information should call Drysdale Police on 5253 1763 or Bellarine Police on 5256 2698..." [From, the print edition]

Forum on future of Bellarine. Geelong Advertiser, July 4th, 2012. "A blueprint for the future development of the Bellarine Peninsula will move a step closer to completion this week. A forum on Friday at the Clifton Springs Golf Club, hosted by the Committee for Bellarine, is the second phase in the drafting of the Bellarine 2050 Masterplan. The plan will detail a wide range of complex social, industrial and administrative challenges associated with the effects of future growth. Committee executive director Tom O'Connor said forecasts of a population explosion on the Bellarine has added urgency to the drafting of a master plan..."

Council crossing the boundary, by Joanna Carson. Bellarine Times, July 3 2012. "There is everything in a name, if the reaction to a proposed boundary realignment in Drysdale and Clifton Springs is any indication. Around 120 people braved a cold winter's night to attend a meeting with local councillor Rod McDonald, who was given the strong message that residents were passionate about remaining in Drysdale. "There does not appear to be any justification for such a drastic move. It just needs a few minor dog legs to fix the problems that are there," resident Peter van Wyk said. "We are mainly upset about the way they (the council) has gone about it. There does not appear to be any justification for such a drastic move. It just needs a few minor dog legs to fix the problems that are there."..."

Sex criminal housed metres from kinder, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, July 2nd, 2012. "A VIOLENT sex offender was transferred to live in a home just metres from a playground and kindergarten in Clifton Springs. The 27-year-old lived on Country Club Drive from June 3 after completing a jail sentence at Port Phillip prison. It is believed the Department of Human Services moved him nearly three weeks later. The move came after shocked neighbours found out about the man's criminal past. The Geelong Advertiser has confirmed the incident and the man's sex offender status with multiple sources, including Victoria Police, government agencies and local health services..."

Airlift in Drysdale, by Alex Oates. Geelong Advertiser 22 June 2012. "An elderly woman was airlifted to hospital with head injuries last night after an accident in Drysdale..."

Local riders stride into Olympic contention, by Joanna Carson. Bellarine Times, June 21 2012. "... Drysdale-based dressage trainer/coach Mary Hanna also won her selection in the dressage team after recent strong performances in Europe. Aboard her top mount Sancette, who was imported from the United States in 2010, Mrs Hanna has received high scores in recent competition from top international judges. The current Victorian Dressage Team coach, her best Olympic result was in 1996 when she placed 24 out of 42 competitors at the Atlanta Olympic games, riding Mosaic II. She also competed at the Sydney and Athens games, but not in Beijing. Mrs Hanna – who will be competing at her fourth Olympics – and husband Rob run well-regarded warmblood stud Statene Park near Drysdale. Mrs Hanna experienced double tragedy in the 1980s when the original Statene Park at Mt Macedon was destroyed in the Ash Wednesday bushfires, luckily all the horses were saved. Then-husband Gert Donvig, a champion dressage rider from Denmark, was killed in a car crash a few years later. The establishment was eventually moved to a larger landholding on the Bellarine by the Hannas. Rob Hanna, a former top eventer, also has a key Olympic role. He is the current chef d' equip of the Australian eventing team, a position he held when Australia won silver in Beijing. Mrs Hanna's daughter Gitte Donvig, who helps run Statene Park, is also a national level dressage rider..."

Drysdale boundary shift up for discussion, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, June 22 2012. "A plan by the City of Greater Geelong to shift the town boundaries of Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis is gaining momentum after a motion to commence investigations and consultation was carried at the May council meeting. The Registrar of Geographic Names requested that council proceed with boundary realignment between Drysdale and Clifton Springs, west of Geelong-Portarlington Road in the interests of public safety in February; however, it has created discussion as to whether it is actually necessary. Councils are responsible for allocating geographic locality boundaries and, according to councillor Rod Macdonald, the process happens from time to time, as towns grow and housing increases, such as at Mt Duneed and Armstrong Creek earlier in the year..."

Draining for a drier Drysdale, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, June 12, 2012. "Amid widespread flooding across the state last week, a new drainage project to commence in August is set to alleviate problems in Drysdale. It is due to be completed by Christmas and will fix periodic flooding that occurs in the Collins Street-Clifton Springs Road area during periods of extreme rainfall..."

Model plan, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, June 12, 2012. "The plan for a total overhaul of the Drysdale town centre aims to centralise services and avoid community fragmentation. As the region faces a growth in population and boom in development, the latest plan prepared by the City of Greater Geelong aims to provide an important foundation for the future development of Drysdale. The Drysdale Urban Design Framework began with an Enquiry by Design process earlier in the year that incorporated the views of the state government, Council, key agencies and members of the Drysdale community..."

Seachange leads to champion cheese, By Gail Thomas. Stock and Land, 9 June, 2012. "Despite being city-born, pharmacists Corrine and Peter Blacket always had culinary interests and a fascination with rural pursuits. So in 1990, they decided to pack up their Melbourne base for a seachange. Buying a couple of acres at Drysdale, they had plenty of room and invested in some Cashmere goats, which quickly became pets. "As they grew old and died, they were replaced with milking goats, first a Toggenburg doe, then some Saanen doe kids then some more mature Saanen milkers," Mrs Blacket said..."

Drysdale design draft up for comment, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, June 5 2012. "The City of Greater Geelong (COGG) is seeking input from the community on the Urban Design Framework draft masterplan (UDF) that details the proposed Drysdale town centre expansion..."

Residents invited to have their say on Drysdale Urban Design framework. City of Greater Geelong, Media Release, Tuesday, 5 June 2012. "Bellarine Peninsula residents are being invited to have their say on a draft Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the Drysdale Town Centre. Cheetham Ward Councillor Rod Macdonald said the framework was an important foundation for the future development of Drysdale. "The G21 Regional Growth Plan Background Report indicates the Drysdale-Clifton Springs area will see a population growth of approximately 14,000 more people over the next 20-30 years." ..."

Richard Marles coming to Drysdale tomorrow - Why?

Our esteemed federal member of Parliament is visiting Drysdale tomorrow.  The Hon Richard Marles MP, Federal member for Corio, will be at the Drysdale Shopping Centre at 16 Wyndham Street from 10.30am - 12.30pm Saturday 16 June 2012.

He would like to hear from us about any federal issues that are concerning us.

He wants to know all about it.

Why now? I can't remember if he has actually done this before, certainly not in this parliamentary term.

Geelong Council consulting on sealing Newcombe Street Drysdale

The City of Greater Geelong has received enquiries about sealing the road in Newcombe Street, Drysdale, between Princess Street and The Glen. The consultation will run from 7 June 2012 to 7 July 2012

"The construction of a sealed road provides an opportunity to review and address many issues residents have with current condition and operation of the street.

For new sealed road construction, it is Council policy to fund the works via a special charge scheme whereby property owners meet the cost of the construction work.

Future maintenance costs are provided by municipal rates revenue and not individual streets or property owners.

Having received advice that there is general support from property owners for the construction and sealing of Newcombe Street, from Princess Street to The Glen, the City has decided to engage with all property owners in Newcombe Street regarding street construction.

The survey has been broken into two independent sections as part of this consultation: Newcombe St - Princess St to The Glen Newcombe St - The Glen to Road End..."

More information is available from the Geelong Council. This is an opportunity for you to have your say.

Drysdale's Mary Hannah is going to the Olympics again

The Geelong Advertiser reports today "Hanna makes fourth Olympics" - an article by Ryan Reynolds.

Geelong's newest Olympian knows she will have her work cut out when she arrives in London.

Drysdale's Mary Hanna was yesterday named in the Australian dressage team, becoming the region's sixth confirmed Olympian...

For Hanna, London will be her fourth Olympics after qualifying for Atlanta (1994), Sydney (2000) and Athens (2004). She did not compete at Beijing in 2008...

Read more at: "Hanna makes fourth Olympics"

Drysdale Urban Design Framework - find out more

Geelong Council is running the Drysdale Urban Design Framework community information sessions.
This consultation is running from 4 June 2012 to 29 June 2012.

'The City of Greater Geelong has prepared a draft Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the Drysdale Town Centre and is seeking community input into the draft.
The population of Drysdale-Clifton Springs is expected to significantly increase in the coming decades therefore it is important to look at how the centre can be developed and shaped into the future to ensure the town centre remains the focal point for shopping and community activities.
The UDF explores the potential growth of the centre, built form, pedestrian linkages, streetscapes, car parking and traffic matters.
Two informal community information sessions will be held for those wishing to get an overview of the plan and meet with Council officers.."

The sessions are being held at:
Drysdale Senior Citizens Club
2-8 Wyndham Street
Drysdale

Monday 18 June 2012
4.30-6.30pm

and

Saturday 23 June 2012
10am – 12pm

Background Documents are available:

• UDF Final Draft Part 1 (PDF - 6.9 MB)
• UDF Final Draft Part 2 (PDF - 8.9 MB)

Geelong Council wants your feedback on how you keep your dogs and cats

The Geelong Council's Domestic Animal Management Plan Review 2013 - 2016 is open for comment from 2 June 2012 to 22 June 2012

"The City of Greater Geelong is preparing a Domestic Animal Management Plan for 2013 - 2016 in relation to the keeping and management of domestic dogs and cats with the municipality.

As part of this process, we are seeking comments and feedback about the outcomes from the existing Domestic Animal Management Plan 2008 - 2012 and or other issues pertinent to domestic animals that are of an interest. This will inform Council in developing appropriate strategies for future service delivery.

The City has prepared a background paper detailing the current status of domestic animal management within the City, together with the key domestic dog and cat issues within the community.

The City invites pet owners, members of the community and special interest groups to review the background paper and have your say. You can do this by completing our online survey (please follow the link below) before 22 June 2012..."

You can complete the Domestic Animal Management Plan Review online survey.

The back ground paper is available - Domestic Animal Management Plan - Background Paper (PDF - 6.9 MB)

Drysdale Clifton Springs Press Articles May 23 - June 4, 2012

Bellarine ferry service needs a bypass. DryCliftDays, Sunday, June 3, 2012. "State Planning Minister Matthew Guy has widened a feasibility study into a Werribee to Melbourne ferry to include stops at Geelong and Portarlington. His decision followed a call by Bellarine state MP Lisa Neville to include Portarlington in the study and it also reflects five years of lobbying by the Portarlington Ferry Group. DCSCA supports the call for a Portarlington ferry service, but until the Drysdale bypass is built, vehicles heading to and from the ferry will just add to the congestion in Drysdale High Street..."

Lions Clubs ask primary schools to imagine peace. Bellarine Times, June 1 2012. "Seven primary schools in the North Bellarine area – St Leonards, Portarlington, Drysdale, Bellarine College, Christian College, St Thomas Catholic College and Clifton Springs – are competing in the Lions International Peace Poster competition..."

Men's shed receives lifeline, by Ali Deane, Bellarine Times, June 1 2012. "The Drysdale Community Bank, a branch of the Bendigo Bank, has just purchased a defibrillator for the Clifton Springs Men's Shed, complete with a training package..."

Police in 'rift' over holidays, By Michelle Herbison. The Bellarine Independent, 1st June 2012. "The region's top cop has sparked a rift with Bellarine Peninsula police over plans for staffing the area over summer. Insp Gary Bruce said a meeting with officers-in-charge from Ocean Grove, Drysdale, Queenscliff and Portarlington this week revealed most were "not convinced" of his plans for a staffing overhaul..."

Summer policing fears, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, May 31st, 2012. "Tourism chiefs have warned against scrapping higher police numbers on our coastline over summer, as Victoria Police makes drastic changes to holiday policing. Tourism leaders say more police on the beat are needed to provide visible safety and combat crime during peak tourist times. Police management yesterday met with police force members to discuss changes to the way they are rostered during summer, including the scrapping of traditional temporary posting of police to holiday hot spots. Drysdale and Clifton Springs Community Association secretary Patrick Hughes said Drysdale and Ocean Grove were flagged growth areas and therefore needed more police year round to deal with population increases. "And yet there's been no plan for extra police to deal with that," Mr Hughes said. "The town is seeing its police presence depleted. It's not the wild west ... but it needs blokes on the beat."..."

Ferry's in, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, May 29 2012. "Portarlington Ferry to be considered in $300,000 commuter ferry service study. Planning Minister Matthew Guy has said Portarlington will be considered in a $300,000 government study into commuter ferry services for Port Phillip Bay, following concerns over its exclusion from a recent state budget announcement. The decision was announced the day after Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville called on Mr Guy to urgently include the proposed Portarlington Ferry in the government's study..."

Colours, collages and coast at 135, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, May 26 2012. "Three local art identities have joined forces for a new show that celebrates colour, coast and local stories at Drysdale's 135 Art Gallery and Studio. In their self-titled show, Linda Gallus, Colin Foster and Pip Williams explore past and present of the Bellarine, perfect light and lazy days, and imagery of the recent Jayco Series cycling event..."

Police withdraw from growing local towns, DryCliftDays, Friday, May 25, 2012. "Bellarine towns will lose police cover under new rosters! Geelong Advertiser journalist Andrea Hamblin reports that, 'Fewer police will be rostered on in Queenscliff, Portarlington, Drysdale and Ocean Grove during days, with members eventually used to make up a 24-hour patrol. But there are no plans for extra police numbers to help to deal with the increased workload on the peninsula.' ('Coast cops called away' Geelong Advertiser 25 May)..."

Lions literacy in schools program a success. Bellarine Time, May 24 2012. "To encourage literacy for children, the Lions Club of Portarlington/Drysdale sponsored the very popular and successful Authors in Schools Literacy Program for Clifton Springs, Drysdale, Portarlington and St Leonards primary schools..."

Tip costs from tax to rise only slightly, by Cameron Best. Geelong Advertiser, May 24th, 2012."Geelong ratepayers will pay just $2.35 extra a year under the carbon tax to have their rubbish collected and dumped at the Drysdale landfill..."

Coast cops called away, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, May 25th, 2012. "Bellarine Peninsula police will be forced to abandon their communities under a new roster scheme that will see coastal officers used to fill a police shortfall in Geelong and Corio. Less police will be rostered on in Queenscliff, Portarlington, Drysdale and Ocean Grove during days, with members eventually used to make up a 24-hour patrol..."

Clifton students give play time serious consideration, by Andrea Hamblin. Geelong Advertiser, May 24th, 2012. "Clifton Springs Primary students are part of a growing movement fighting for the right to play time. Finn Ferguson Cumming, Maddison Sharp, Alana Gray and Sebastian Brew Doyle joined members of the Northern Bellarine Early Years network at a summit last week to develop a manifesto that will be delivered to the UN later this year. The Australian Children's Play summit gives kids a chance to discuss the need for unstructured play..."

Second Hand book sale - June Long Weekend in Drysdale

St James Church is holding a second hand book sale at their newly refurbished rebuilt hall in Collins Street Drysdale on Saturday June 9 from 9am - 5pm and on Sunday June 10 from 10am to 4pm.

Entry is free - phone 5251 2594 for more information.

Barwon Water wants feedback on their water plan

You have until 31 July 2012 to provided Barwon Water with feedback on their water plan.

Barwon Water - 2013 Water Plan: draft for public comment, Thursday 31 May 2012

We are seeking feedback from our community on the draft 2013 Water Plan.

The Water Plan sets the strategic direction for Barwon Water for the next 5 years (2013–2018). It details our service standards, business initiatives, expenditure forecasts, infrastructure plans and the prices our customers will pay.

Your feedback on the draft document will be used to finalise the Water Plan, before it is submitted to the Essential Services Commission (ESC) in September 2012 for final approval. The ESC is the independent regulator for the water sector.

Feedback can be sent to:


Barwon Water, Strategy and Regulation Team, PO Box 659 Geelong VIC 3220
or emailed to: info@barwonwater.vic.gov.au


Minister for Water Peter Walsh said he strongly encouraged all members of the community to provide comment on the draft plans which will outline the pricing structure for water.

"Victorians have an opportunity to provide their feedback on how much they will pay for their water in the future, and what services will be included in this cost.

"The provision of water services is an important economic infrastructure for households and businesses and the Victorian Government encourages active feedback," Mr Walsh said.

Drysdale Tip - dump a boot load of stuff for just $10 during June

The Geelong Council is providing during June 2012 a great offer to local residents whereby you can take a boot load of rubbish to their Drysdale Tip and pay only $10.

As from 1 July 2012 a boot load of stuff will cost the inflated price of $17!

This offer also includes station wagons with the back seats in the upright position but excludes utes - so that counts me out - discrimination I say  :-(

More information is available from the Geelong Council website.

Drysdale Clifton Springs Press Articles April 24 - May 22, 2012

Sheep savaged in attack. Weekly Times May 22, 2012. "FERAL killer dogs are believed to be behind a spate of vicious attacks on livestock throughout Geelong. The Geelong Advertiser reports that in the latest incident, sheep were killed and severely mutilated in Drysdale at the weekend. The attack left five sheep dead and 25 injured..."

Bellarine clubs mixing it with region's best, by Luke Griffiths. Bellarine Times, May 19 2012. "Three Bellarine Football League teams have been included in the region's top tier of junior football, with Ocean Grove, Drysdale and Torquay now competing against seven GFL clubs as part Football Geelong's inaugural under 18 Colts competition..."

Two arrested over sports club robbery, by Erin Pearson. Geelong Advertiser, May 18th, 2012. "TWO men who allegedly threatened staff at a Bell Park sports club with kitchen knives have been arrested. St Leonards man Robert Camilleri, 36, and Bradley Paul Franklin, 32, of no fixed address, face charges in relation to an armed robbery at Bell Park Sports and Recreation Club in Calvert St, Hamlyn Heights on May 3. Mr Camilleri, also known as Roberto Crea, has also been charged with attempted theft at Drysdale's Bendigo Bank on April 28 and attempted robbery of Drysdale's National Bank on May 3..."

Culture of learning a key, Bellarine Times, May 17, 2012. "Clifton Springs Primary School is a school community with a rich culture of learning and is using Education Week 2012 to celebrate this. Principal Brent Richards said everyone at the school is very proud of the quality learning being undertaken, particularly the work that has been done on individual goal setting for students..."

Drysdale's Dell to get community upgrade, by Joanna Carson. Bellarine Times, May 17 2012. "The Drysdale and Clifton Springs community are being invited to help spend $15,000. The money has been granted to the Drysdale/Clifton Springs Community Association (DCSCA) as part of the federal government's Caring for our Country initiative. DCSCA spokesman Doug Carson said the money would be spent in The Dell recreation area, which would be spruced up with help from the community..."Drysdale's Dell to get community upgrade

Central Walk Running Ahead in Drysdale, by Luke Griffiths. Bellarine Times, May 10 2012. "Eight years of planning will soon become a reality with construction commencing on the first two stages of the Central Walk development in Drysdale. Located only 200 metres from the town centre, initial stages include the development of 63 housing lots and the construction of a $1.5 million lineal open space reserve and wetlands that will feature pedestrian bridges, public artwork, and piazza area..."

'Greening' The Dell. DryClift Days, Wednesday, May 9, 2012. "DCSCA has created a group of organisations to plan and execute the re-vegetation of the area around The Dell's new Lookout. The revegetation project is financed by a $15,000 grant from the Commonwealth Government through its Caring for our Country Community Action Grants program. Among the organizations in the group are the Bellarine Catchment Network, Bellarine Landcare, City of Greater Geelong, Dept. of Sustainability and Environment and Springdale Neighbourhood Centre. The revegetation project will complement the new signage that was installed at The Dell in 2011. DCSCA participated actively in designing the signage and its revegetation project will make the area even more attractive for locals and visitors..."

Data trail, by Joanna Carson. Bellarine Times, May 8 2012. "Don't waste time waiting for NBN, says councillor Macdonald. Parts of the Bellarine to miss out on the first National Broadband Network (NBN) roll-out have not been disregarded, according to a local councillor. While Leopold, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff are all set to receive the NBN, other Bellarine towns were absent when the first three year plan was announced. City of Greater Geelong Cheetham Ward councillor and infrastructure portfolio holder Rod Macdonald said the Northern Bellarine, from Drysdale to St Leonards, shouldn't feel put out..."

A Drysdale bypass - a new heartbeat for the North Bellarine! Dryclift Days, Tuesday, May 8, 2012. "As part of its campaign for a Drysdale bypass, the Drysdale & Clifton Springs Community Association (DCSCA) held a successful public meeting on May 2 at SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre. The proposed Drysdale bypass will, effectively, run between the Jetty Road roundabout and the Geelong-Portarlington Road at its junction with Whitcombes Road, but speakers at the meeting emphasised that far more people than just Drysdale residents will benefit from a Drysdale bypass. The population of the north Bellarine is set to increase enormously, yet no major roads are planned to accommodate the increased traffic. The resulting traffic congestion in Drysdale will lengthen people's travelling time from Portarlington, St. Leonards and Indented Head to Geelong and Melbourne; and it will also make the proposed Portarlington to Melbourne ferry a far less attractive option for commuters from Geelong. DCSCA is seeking support for the bypass campaign from community associations in other Bellarine towns and DCSCA President Doug Carson told the meeting that the St. Leonards Community Association has expressed its support already for the campaign..."

Portarlington to Port Melbourne ferry service snubbed. Geelong Advertiser, May 8th, 2012. THE proposed Portarlington to Port Melbourne ferry service has been snubbed by Planning Minister Matthew Guy. Last week Mr Guy announced a $300,000 study into a commuter ferry service on the bay. A spokesperson for the Minister yesterday confirmed the Portarlington proposal had been specifically excluded from that study..."

Bypass campaign not short on advice! Dryclift Days, Monday, May 7, 2012. Local politicians have been generous with their advice to DCSCA about the campaign for a Drysdale bypass. DCSCA Committee members met recently with Mr. Richard Marles MP (federal, Corio), Cr. Rod Macdonald (Cheetham Ward) and Cr. John Doull (Coryule Ward) to ask for their advice about how best to campign for the bypass. Each of them had helpful suggestions, that we've distilled into a 'campaign manual' with three major sections..."

Towns call for rollout, By Michelle Herbison. Bellarine Independent, May 4, 2012. "DRYSDALE and Clifton Springs will submit a formal request to be included in the next rollout of the national broadband network, according to a community group. Drysdale and Clifton Springs Community Association president Doug Carson said the group wanted to keep the issue "bubbling away" so the towns avoided being duped again..."

Plenty of room for new patients, by Joanna Carson. Bellarine Times, April 25 2012. "The transformation of a former Drysdale aged care hostel into a medical centre has brought more GPs to the Northern Bellarine in time for a growth in population. Drysdale Village Medical Centre may only have moved up the road to the former Palmerston Court Aged Care Hostel, but the overcrowded practice is now twice as large as it was and still only filling half of its new premises. Practice manager Fiona Petho said three new GPs had joined the clinic, which enabled Drysdale to buck a growing trend of GP shortages..."

Trapped at the Potato Shed, by Ali Deane. Bellarine Times, April 24 2012. "Theatre, dance and music lovers on the Bellarine are about to be treated to a new show that both entertains and explores some intriguing topics. Trapped, by Collision Dance, will be showcased at the Potato Shed in Drysdale this Thursday to Saturday, and explores what it means to be trapped: the physical and emotional aspects of being isolated, bound or tethered by nightmares, fears and anxieties..."

Thief targets funeral home, by Erin Pearson. Geelong Advertiser (Print edition) 25 April 2012. "Thieves have attempted to break into a Drysdale funeral home just days after a car smashed through the building causing $80,000 damage. Drysdale Police constable John Shields said police believe theves attempted to jimmy open a double glass door at William Sheahan Funerals between 7pm Monday and 9am Tuesday. Sen-Constable Shields said the break-in attept was unsuccessful but casued some damage..."