By Peter Douglas
Burrinja Cultural Centre played host to a Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday 24 October, as part of a bid to take ‘council on the road’.
After meetings in Healesville, Warburtorn and Montrose, the ‘travelling council’ team stopped off at the hills, with a healthy gathering turning out for the occasion.
The Upwey-Tecoma Bowls Club, The Hills Food Frontier and the Dandenong Ranges Music Council (DRMC) were among the local groups to present before the historic meeting.
Local icon and former Shire of Sherbrooke president Betty Marsden was an apology.
All groups presented a background of their achievements and present plans, while also praising their collaboration with the council.
The Hills Food Frontier (THFF) group provided a highlight when they delivered an impromptu song about broccoli and the benefits of eating healthy.
Hear the ‘broccoli’ song for yourself:
Daniyela Rob said THFF had enjoyed a productive relationship with council.
“We thank the shire for their ongoing support. Not just through grants, but (councillors) Noel Cliff and Mike Clarke often attend our meetings,” she said.
“The Hills Food Frontier has been going on for three years, started by an amazing group of women. Our vision is to see the Dandenong Ranges as an inspirational and sustainable food destination for Australia.”
Meanwhile, Jim McArthur from Upwey-Tecoma Bowls Club spoke of the club’s plans for future development and ongoing viability.
Mr McArthur called on council support for their application for Victorian Government funding.
Among the plans included three stages of development, which includes planting out a large, unused grass area; updating and replacing the synthetic greens and upgrading club amenities.
“Once completed, the club’s playing facilities will be certainly the best in the eastern ranges area, it’ll be a destination club for new members and players.”
Mr McArthur said the first two stages would cost about $350,000, with the club well-placed to contribute half the costs.
From the DRMC, Ted O’Hare explained the positive impact the group had on the community.
“Music has a binding effect on people and the community. We work with the community quite significantly, such as the Breast Beaters Group, which helps those who are battling breast cancer,” he said.
“It reaches many different ages, with our oldest member a 97-year-old who plays saxophone, to a two-year-old who plays the violin.
“The DRMC has been the foundation for many successful composers, directors and musicians.”
